DE102007040322B4 - Toilet freshener with defined amount of active ingredient - Google Patents

Abstract

Toilet flusher comprising a power source, control unit, sensor unit, and at least one first container that contains a first preparation and that may be connected to the toilet flusher, wherein the toilet flusher comprises at least one pump that cooperates with the power source, control unit, and sensor unit such that a defined dispensing amount of at least one substance preparation is dispensed independently of the arrangement of the toilet flusher in or on the toilet bowl and/or of the amount of flushing water acting on the toilet flusher.

Description

The invention relates to a toilet freshener with an electromechanically induced release of a defined delivery amount of preparations in or on a toilet bowl according to the preamble of claim 1.

State of the art

The exact and appropriate dosage of flowable or pourable compositions is for a variety of applications of relevance.

Especially in the household sector, the dosage of flowable substances is of increasing importance, which is primarily due to the exact and needs-controlled dosage of the corresponding active ingredients, thereby protecting the environment through resource conservation and prevention of overdoses and overdoses, on the other hand, the efficiency of the drugs so dosed is optimized.

The dosage of cleaning and fragrance compositions in the toilet area is currently primarily realized by so-called toilet flushing. These are single or multi-chamber containers that are hung in the toilet bowl so that when flushing the toilet bowl with water, a release of active ingredient from the toilet bowl into the toilet bowl.

Such devices are made, for example EP 0 828 902 A1 or DE 101 13 036 A1 known.

A major disadvantage of these toilet flushers is that the dosage depends essentially on the particular local flow conditions in the toilet bowl during the flushing process. However, the flow conditions may vary greatly depending on the type of toilet and the positioning of the toilet bowl in or on the toilet bowl. So it may happen, for example, that in some types of toilet no drug release from the toilet rinse takes place because the toilet bowl is not or not sufficiently covered with water during flushing and thus the dosing of the toilet rinser is not triggered.

Even if a toilet-rinse is overflowed according to use of rinse water, so this is so far disadvantageous as it comes to a disturbance provided by the toilet manufacturer water supply, whereby the flushing power of a toilet can be noticeably reduced.

A manually operable toilet cleaning device consisting of a arranged next to the toilet bowl storage tank and a spatially separate spatially mounted on the toilet rim spray nozzle is off US2007 / 0136937A1 known. In this toilet cleaning device, an active substance fluid is introduced into the toilet bowl by manual release by means of a plate nozzle.

It would thus be desirable to have a compact dosing device for releasing active ingredients into a toilet bowl, which realizes automatic dosing of active ingredients into the toilet bowl independent of the flushing of the toilet.

Further, it would be desirable if drug release did not occur only after actuation of the rinse. For example, it would be advantageous to dose perfumes or foaming agents into the toilet bowl immediately prior to use of the toilet to prevent the possible release of frequently perceived as unpleasant odors of human metabolic waste during use of the toilet preventive.

Furthermore, the metering devices described some have large volumes, which is often perceived as disadvantageous for aesthetic reasons and also in functional terms often causes problems, for example, the usable space is reduced in a toilet bowl by projecting into the toilet opening dosing.

Furthermore, the amounts of active substance released can be influenced by the temperature of the rinsing water, so that a higher release of active ingredient can be observed in the warmer months than in the colder months of a year.

Especially with regard to the most environmentally friendly cleaning of toilet bowl by means of toilet flusher is a defined, constant and needs-based dosage of active ingredient compositions of rapidly growing importance.

Object of the invention

It is therefore starting from the US 2007/0136937 A1 The object of the invention to prevent the disadvantages of the toilet freshener of the type described and to provide a toilet freshener for the release of active ingredients in a toilet bowl, which has a compact design and an automatic, independent of flushing the toilet dosage of active ingredients in the Toilet bowl realized.

The object is achieved by a toilet freshener with the features of claim 1.

The toilet freshener according to the invention consists of various components, which in turn can be combined to form assemblies. The components of the toilet flusher comprise at least a pump, a dispensing element, a control unit, a sensor unit, a power source, a container, a fastening means and a preparation. The components pump, control unit, sensor unit and energy source can be summarized in a preferred embodiment of the invention to the module "dosing". The components and assemblies are described below.

dosing

In the metering device necessary for the operation of the toilet flusher power source, a control unit, a sensor unit and at least one pump is integrated. Preferably, the dosing device consists of a splash-proof housing that the penetration of splashing water, as it may occur in a toilet bowl when using the toilet-rinser according to the invention, in the interior of the dosing prevented.

Further, it is preferred that the dosing device is arranged on the outer edge of the toilet bowl, whereby on the one hand protection from splash water influence and on the other hand a convenient operation of the dosing device is made possible. Furthermore, the dosing device does not protrude into the interior of the toilet, whereby the usable external cross-sectional area of the toilet bowl is not reduced by the arrangement on the outside edge.

Since the preparations to be dosed may have a pH between 2 and 12, depending on the intended use, all components of the toilet rinser that come into contact with the preparations should have a corresponding acid and / or alkali resistance. Furthermore, these components should be largely chemically inert by a suitable choice of material, for example against nonionic surfactants, enzymes and / or fragrances

It is particularly advantageous to shed the electrical components of the WC flusher according to the invention, such as the energy source, the control unit, the sensor unit separately or together with each other in such a way that the metering device is substantially waterproof, the metering device is thus functional even when fully enclosed with liquid , As potting materials, for example, multicomponent epoxy, and acrylate potting compounds such as methacrylate esters, urethane-metha and cyanoacrylates or two-component materials can be used with polyurethanes, silicones, epoxy resins.

A significant advantage of the invention is to be seen in the separation of the toilet rinser in a dosing and in a coupled with the dispenser container, whereby the toilet freshener can be used flexibly for a variety of applications and adapted in a simple manner.

pump

A pump in the sense of this application is a fluid energy machine for moving or conveying in particular small quantities of a fluid by converting a mechanical drive power into a flow rate.

In the following, fluids are liquids and gases, as well as mixtures thereof and solids.

The pump can be selected from the group of positive displacement pumps, oscillatory pumps, diaphragm pumps, piston pumps, rotary pumps, dynamic pumps, centrifugal pumps, electrohydrodynamic pumps, electroosmotic pumps, magnetohydrodynamic pumps, surface acoustic wave pumps, capillary force pumps, electrowetting pumps , thermocapillary pumps.

The pump is connected either directly or through the intermediary of the control unit to the power source.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the release of at least one preparation is solely gravitationally effected without the action of a pump. In this configuration, the delivery of formulation from the container to the environment is controlled, for example, by a valve that opens to release the preparation and prevent it from releasing. The valve can be controlled directly by the power source or by the interposition of the control unit.

The pump, the sensor and the control unit are advantageously configured in such a way that a defined release amount of active ingredient preparation is dispensed into the toilet bowl irrespective of the arrangement of the toilet rinser in or on the toilet bowl and / or of the amount of flushing water acting on the toilet bowl ,

The pump also makes it possible for at least two distinct, defined delivery quantities of at least one active substance preparation to be releasable. A significant advantage of this particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention is the appropriate dosage of active ingredients in the toilet bowl, which can be a resource gentler and more effective use of active ingredients can be effected.

In a further, preferred embodiment of the invention, the pump is configured such that it is suitable for releasing an active compound preparation having a viscosity <5000 mPas.

micropump

The delivery rate of a micropump is usually between 50 nl and 100 ml per minute, preferably between 250 nl and 30 ml per minute, more preferably between 500 nl and 5 ml per minute.

The micropump preferably has a construction volume of less than 5 cm ³ , particularly preferably less than 3 cm ³ , particularly preferably less than 2 cm ³ .

The specific delivery rate of a micropump, formed from the ratio of delivery rate to the construction volume of a micropump, is usually less than 500 [1 / min]. The specific delivery rate is preferably between 1 and 300, more preferably between 1.5 and 200, particularly preferably between 2 and 150, with very particular preference between 2.5 and 100.

diaphragm pumps

Particularly advantageous for the dosing of cleaning and active ingredient preparations and fragrances are membrane pumps.

Diaphragm pumps usually consist of an inlet and an outlet valve in or out of a pumping chamber, which is partially formed of a pumping membrane and an actuator.

The actuator causes a compression of the pumping chamber by mechanically acting on the pump diaphragm with the inlet valve closed, whereby the fluid in the pumping chamber is conveyed out of the pumping chamber via the opened outlet valve.

When the ejection operation is completed, the outlet valve is closed and the decompression of the pumping chamber is effected by the actuator, whereby the fluid is sucked into the pumping chamber via the opened inlet valve.

It can be seen that by suitable configuration and / or control of the valves and the actuator, the conveying direction of the micropump can be influenced or reversed.

The actuator of the diaphragm pump can be selected, for example, from the group of electromotive, piezoceramic, bimetallic, memometallic, pneumatic, peristaltic, electrostatic, electromagnetic, thermal drive units.

The valves can be designed as active or passive valves. The passive valves may in particular be flapper valves, diaphragm valves or no-moving parts valves.

Depending on the field of application, the pressure-side delivery of the preparation from the metering device may be dropwise, jet-like or spray-like, diffuse or by evaporation.

In particular, in preparations which tend to form deposits during prolonged storage, it may be advantageous to arrange containers containing the preparation on the pressure side of the pump. In this configuration, only a fluid free of deposit-forming substances is pumped by the pump. It is particularly advantageous in this case to use air as the fluid.

The fluid is pumped into the container under pressure. The container has a pressure compensation valve that releases the product flow from the container when a defined pressure in the container is exceeded.

This makes it possible in particular to use the metering device for a wide variety of preparations without jeopardizing the functionality of the pump by possible deposits or reactions between two preparations.

release elements

The delivery elements are any type of devices which are suitable for delivering an active substance to the surroundings of the dosing device.

The delivery elements can be selected, for example, from the group of nozzles, spray heads, drop dispensers, foam spray heads, piezo elements, porous elements, wick systems, capillary systems, nebulizers, ultrasonic nebulizers, ionization nebulizers, etc.

In particular, nozzles, spray heads, drop dispensers, foam spray heads, piezo elements and the like are suitable for dispensing active ingredients into the toilet or on the inside of the toilet bowl surfaces.

In particular, nozzles, atomizers, spray heads, piezo elements, sintered plates, porous elements, wick systems and the like are suitable for dispensing active compound preparation into the air.

The delivery elements may have the same or different spray cone shapes when dispensing the preparations. For example, it is conceivable that one delivery element generates a jet with a rather punctiform application surface, while another delivery element generates a flat application field. Of course, various combinations of different spray cone shapes are conceivable.

The delivery member may further provide means for electrostatically charging drug droplets, thereby improving wetting, adherence and / or distribution of the agent on a surface and / or in the air.

Furthermore, the dispensing element can be designed as a fan, which can be configured either by suction of bad odors to improve the air or with regard to an optimized distribution of active substance in or on the toilet bowl.

In particular, the delivery elements can be configured in such a way that one or more active substances are released in different directions from one another. In the following table, by way of example but not necessarily, some possible configurations regarding the dispensing direction are listed. Dispensing direction A Dispensing direction B Fragrance release in the toilet bowl Fragrance delivery to the environment Detergent dispensed into the toilet bowl Discharge of detergent under the edge of the toilet / During rinsing or outside the rinsing process Detergent dispensed into the toilet bowl Fragrance delivery to the environment

Of course, any other, any combination of the configurations listed in the above table is possible.

It is also advantageous to arrange the dispensing element movably on the bracket of the toilet rinser. In this way, the dispensing element and the spray cone of the preparation can be targeted by the user to wet a defined application field in or on the toilet with preparation.

The dispensing element or elements are advantageously configured in such a way that a defined dispensing quantity of at least one active substance preparation is directed and defined into the interior of a toilet bowl independently of the positioning of the toilet freshener on the toilet bowl. Advantages of such a configuration are u. a. the more specific exposure of toilet bowl surfaces with one or more active agents, whereby different surfaces can be treated with different active ingredients. For example, in a flat washer, the pan may be wetted with an adherence reducing agent, while an active agent for reducing limescale is applied to the funnel-shaped walls extending from the pan to the rim of the toilet.

control unit

A control unit in the sense of this application is a device which is suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and / or information. For this purpose, the control unit influences transducers with the aid of information which it processes in the sense of the control target.

The transducers can be pumps and / or valves, for example.

Since the toilet freshener in a preferred embodiment of the invention does not use mechanical control elements for product release, the toilet freshener can be miniaturized so that it can also be used in applications where the size of the toilet freshener is critical.

In particular, the control unit may be a programmable microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dosing programs are stored on the microprocessor, which can be selected and executed in accordance with the container coupled to the toilet freshener. Of course, it is also conceivable that the dosing programs are manually retrievable by the user.

The control unit is also preferably arranged on the outside of the toilet bowl, from where it can be operated by the user in a simple way, especially when the user sits on the toilet.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the control unit may comprise a dosing program for introducing at least two mutually different active compound preparations into a toilet bowl or into the environment of the toilet bowl, at least two different active substance preparations being released on at least two successive times t ₁ and t ₂ be introduced, wherein at least one active ingredient preparation is introduced into the interior of a toilet bowl.

An essential advantage of such a dosing program is, inter alia, an optimized cleaning performance by the most precise control of possible chemical reactions by a corresponding time delayed release of the corresponding preparation or preparations, of which some, but not exhaustive examples are listed in the table below. t ₁ t ₂ advantage Cleaner in toilet bowl during the flushing process Perfume in toilet bowl after rinse Optimized perfume development, as perfume is released after the rinse in the toilet bowl and so is not washed away with the rinse water. Perfume is not "decomposed" by detergent preparation. Fragrance in toilet bowl immediately before use Cleaner in toilet bowl during the flushing process Optimized perfume development, as fragrance is released before the rinse in the toilet bowl and so is not washed away with the rinse water. Perfume is not "decomposed" by detergent preparation. Cleaner A in toilet bowl immediately before use Cleaner B in toilet bowl during rinsing process Cleaner A can prevent buildup in the toilet bowl by applying a cleanser A protective film to the toilet bowl immediately prior to use of the toilet, which is then rinsed from the toilet surface during rinse B rinse operation.

The control unit may in particular be designed in such a way that it is possible to set parameters in the dosing programs. For example, sensor thresholds may be adjustable during pre-configuration of the toilet bowl or by the user during use, for example, to trigger drug release at a particular sensor threshold. The setting of one or more parameters can be realized by a correspondingly configured input device on the toilet freshener. As a result, the control of the toilet rinser can be further optimized and adapted to a particular application.

sensor unit

The sensor unit may comprise one or more active and / or passive sensors for the qualitative and / or quantitative detection of mechanical, electrical, physical and / or chemical variables, which are passed as control signals to the control unit.

In particular, the sensors of the sensor unit from the group of timers, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, strain sensors, speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, sound pressure sensors, "lab-on-a-chip Sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, humidity sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and / or MEMS sensors.

The sensor unit can be designed in its simplest conceivable embodiment as a tilt, push or push switch.

Particularly in the case of preparations whose viscosity varies greatly depending on the temperature, it is advantageous for volume or mass control of the metered preparations to provide flow sensors in the metering device. Suitable flow sensors may be selected from the group of orifice flow rate sensors, electromagnetic flowmeters, Coriolis mass flow rate measurement, vortex flowmeter, ultrasonic flow rate measurement, variable area flow measurement, annular piston flow measurement, thermal mass flow measurement, or differential pressure flow measurement.

It is also conceivable for a temperature-dependent viscosity curve of at least one preparation to be deposited in the control unit, wherein the dosage is adjusted by the control unit according to the temperature and thus the viscosity of the preparation.

In a further embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for direct determination of the viscosity of the preparation is provided.

The abovementioned alternatives for determining the metered quantity or the viscosity of a preparation serve to generate a control signal which is processed by the control unit in such a way for controlling a pump that substantially a constant metering of a preparation is effected.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensor is configured in such a way that the detection of a rinsing process is realized without significantly influencing the flow conditions in a toilet bowl. For example, ultrasound sensors can be used for this purpose.

energy

For the purposes of this application is understood as an energy source, a component of the metering device, which is expedient to provide a self-sufficient operation of the metering suitable energy.

Preferably, the energy source provides electrical energy. The energy source may be, for example, a battery, a power supply, solar cells or the like.

It is particularly advantageous to make the energy source replaceable, for example in the form of a replaceable battery.

However, it is also conceivable in principle that the energy source is a mechanical energy source, such as a dynamo, which converts a mechanical or fluidic energy into electrical energy. This can then be stored in suitable memory elements such as a capacitor or accumulator.

container

For the purposes of this application, a container is understood to mean a packaging material which is suitable for wrapping or holding together preparations and which can be coupled to the dispensing device for dispensing the preparation.

Particularly preferred is an arrangement in which two containers are provided, which, more preferably, are separated from each other and each containing a drug fluid. But there may also be several reservoirs for multiple drug fluids. The reservoirs are separated from each other to prevent premature mixing of the drug fluids. They may be physically separate or formed as separate compartments in a contiguous body.

Preferably, the volume ratio formed from the overall volume of the metering device and the filling volume of the container <1, more preferably <0.1, particularly preferably <0.05. This ensures that, for a given total construction volume of metering device and container, the overwhelming portion of the construction volume is taken up by the container and the preparation contained therein.

The container usually has a filling volume of <5,000 ml, in particular <1,000 ml, preferably <500 ml, more preferably <250 ml, most preferably <50 ml.

The invention is particularly suitable for dimensionally stable containers such as cups, cans, cartridges, cartridges, bottles, canisters, cans, boxes, drums or tubes, but can also be used for flexible containers such as bags or sacks, in particular if they are in accordance with the bag. be used in-bottle principle.

In particular, a container can also comprise a plurality of chambers which can be filled with different compositions from each other. It is also conceivable that a plurality of containers to a unit, for example, a cartridge is arranged.

Examples of possible combinations of containers or chambers with the corresponding preparations are exemplified for some applications in the following table. Container A Container B Container C cleaning supplies perfume Cleaning agent A Cleaning agent B Cleaning agent A Cleaning agent B perfume

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the container has an RFID tag that contains at least information about the contents of the container and that can be read by the sensor unit.

This information can be used to select a dosing program stored in the control unit. In this way it can be ensured that an optimal dosing program is always used for a particular preparation. It can also be provided that in the absence of an RFID label or an RFID label with a false or faulty identifier, no dosage is carried out by the metering device and instead an optical or acoustic signal is generated that the user to the present Error indicates.

In order to prevent misuse of the container, the containers may also have structural elements which cooperate with corresponding elements of the metering device according to the key-lock principle, so that, for example, only containers of a particular type can be coupled to the metering device. Furthermore, this configuration makes it possible for information about the container coupled to the dosing device to be transmitted to the control unit, as a result of which control of the dosing device coordinated with the contents of the corresponding container can take place.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the container may be under pressure. This is particularly advantageous if the preparation is to be sprayed or dispensed without the need for an intermediate pump. In this case, the delivery of the preparation may be controlled, for example, by a control valve operatively connected to the control unit. This embodiment has the further advantage that no energy has to be provided for the transport of the preparation from the energy source, with which the energy source can either be made smaller or have a longer life expectancy.

fastener

The toilet bowl further includes attachment means to fix the toilet bowl to the toilet bowl. The fastening means may be formed, for example, as a suction cup, adhesive tape, strap or the like.

The attachment of the toilet rinser can alternatively be done on the cistern of the toilet, the toilet seat or the toilet lid. For this purpose, the well-known in the prior art fasteners can be used.

preparations

Preparations within the meaning of these applications are compositions containing at least one substance from the group of detergents and / or fragrances.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the preparations comprise substances for the modification of surfaces, in particular of ceramic surfaces.

Preparations suitable according to the invention are, for example, scent phases, in particular perfumed scent phases. Such scent phases usually comprise at least one perfume, preferably perfume oil, at least one surfactant or an emulsifier and water and optionally further ingredients such as preservatives, thickeners, complexing agents, dyes, other surfactants or emulsifiers, stabilizers, lime solubilizer etc.

Bleaching phases, in particular chlorine-containing bleaching phases, preferably bleaching phases based on hypochlorite, are also suitable according to the invention. The bleaching phases may optionally contain further ingredients such as thickeners, surfactants or emulsifiers, neutralizing agents, dyes, fragrances, etc. in addition to the actual bleaching agent and water.

Further preparations which are suitable according to the invention are lime-dissolving active substance phases, preferably acidic lime-dissolving active substance phases. Such lime-solubilizing active ingredient phases may contain, in addition to the actual lime solubilizer - preferably this is an organic or inorganic acid - and water optionally further ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives, etc.

Similarly, it is possible to use as preparations highly concentrated surfactant phases, so-called "foam boosters". Such highly concentrated surfactant phases may also contain other conventional ingredients in addition to the surfactants. Such foam boosters are particularly advantageous for pretreatment of the toilet bowl with a foam carpet to prevent or reduce, for example, adherence of metabolic waste products on the toilet surface and / or to cause encapsulation of bad odors.

Also suitable according to the invention are preparations having an antibacterial and / or fungicidal and / or antiviral active phase, wherein the active phase, in addition to the antibacterial and / or fungicidal and / or antiviral active and water, optionally further ingredients, such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances , Preservatives, etc. may contain.

It is also possible that the preparations are enzyme-containing active substance phases. In addition to enzyme (s) and water, such enzyme-containing active substance phases may optionally contain further ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives, etc.

Likewise, it is possible that the preparations used according to the invention are absorbent, in particular odor-absorbing, active-substance phases. These may, in addition to the absorbent, in particular odor absorbent, and water optionally further ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives, etc. included.

According to a particular embodiment, the toilet freshener according to the invention offers the possibility of using combinations of different preparations in the storage containers, wherein according to a preferred embodiment one of the storage containers contains a fragrance phase, in particular as defined above.

Examples of preparation combinations to be used are perfumed fragrance phase combined with chlorine bleach (together not storage-stable), perfumed fragrance phase with highly concentrated surfactant phase (foam booster), fragrance phase with lime-dissolving, acidic active phase, fragrance phase with antibacterial active ingredient phase, different acid systems, fragrance phase combined with enzyme-containing active substance phase, perfumed Acid phase combined with water-coloring phase, fragrance phase with odor-absorbing phase, perfumed acid phase with active oxygen, perfumed acid phase with active substance phase, thickened with polyacrylate etc.

Of particular interest are viscous to gelatinous active fluids having viscosities in the range of a few thousand mPas, in particular from 200 to 5000 mPas, preferably 500 to 3500 mPas (measured with RotoVisko LVTV II, spindle 31, 5 rpm, 20 ° C).

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the preparations have a viscosity of less than 2000 mPas, in particular less than 1000 mPas (measured with RotoVisko LVTV II, spindle 31, 5 rpm, 20 ° C.). Such low-viscosity to aqueous preparations are particularly suitable if the preparation is to be sprayed in or on the toilet bowl.

Through the use of low-viscosity active compound preparations can be effected in conjunction with the inventive toilet freshener much faster and more accurate dosage and dispensed with the use of thickening systems. Furthermore, drug systems can be used, which can be displayed only with low viscosities z. B. based on chlorine, HCl, ect ..

The preparation may be under pressure according to another embodiment of the invention. This is particularly advantageous if the preparation is to be sprayed or dispensed without the need for an intermediate pump. In this case, the discharge of the preparation may be controlled, for example, by a control valve operatively connected to the control unit. This embodiment has the further advantage that no energy has to be provided for the transport of the preparation from the energy source, with which the energy source can either be made smaller or have a longer life expectancy.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Toilet freshener

2

dosing

3

energy

4

control unit

5

sensor unit

6

pump

7

pressure line

8th

suction

9

container

10

preparation

11

Pressure equalization valve

11a

check valve

12

Pressure equalization valve

13

container

14

preparation

15

Valve

16

Valve

17

pressure line

18

suction

19

pump

42

RFID tag

43

dispensing element

44

Lamp / Power indicator

45

actuator

46

Acoustic transducer

47

Support

48

Recording / well

49

wall

50

fastener

51

wick

52

hanger

53

telescopic element

54

spray cones

55

toilet bowl

56

jet

57

jet

58

flap

List of Figures

1 Toilet washer with preparation container on the suction side of the pump in a schematic block diagram

2 Toilet washer with preparation container on the pressure side of the pump in a schematic block diagram

3 Toilet washer with two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump in a schematic block diagram

4 Toilet washer with passive valve-controlled two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump in a schematic block diagram

4a Toilet washer with active valve-controlled two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump in a schematic block diagram

5 Toilet freshener with two pump-connected preparation containers in a schematic block diagram

6 Flow chart for controlling the toilet flush with a pump

7 Flow chart for controlling the toilet flush with a pump and multi-chamber preparation container

8th Flow chart for control of toilet flush valves with several pumps and multi-chamber preparation containers

9 Toilet washer with RFID label on preparation container in a schematic block diagram

10 Toilet washer with removable refill container in a schematic block diagram

11 Toilet freshener with refill container fixed to the dispenser in a schematic block diagram

12 Toilet washer with integrated battery in the refill tank in a schematic block diagram

13 Toilet washer with 2-chamber refill and two pumps

14 Toilet washer with 2-chamber refill, a pump and a control valve in a schematic block diagram

15 Toilet freshener with extendable handle in perspective view

16 Toilet washer with removable container and wick system in perspective view

17 Toilet freshener with arranged on a strap end discharge element in side view

18 Toilet flush with arranged at a temple end dispensing element in view of a toilet bowl

19 Toilet freshener with individually replaceable containers in perspective view

20 Dispensing element with integrated sensor unit and two dispensing nozzles in perspective view

21 Dispensing element with integrated sensor unit, two dispensing nozzles and two spray cones in perspective view

22 Toilet freshener with dispensing element and two spray cones in perspective

Overhead view of a toilet bowl

23 Toilet freshener with discharge element arranged under the toilet rim and two differently oriented spray cones in side view

24 Toilet freshener with discharge element arranged under the toilet rim and a spray cone directed below the edge of the toilet in side view

25 Toilet freshener with two individually replaceable containers and a viewing flap in closed and open position in perspective view

1 shows the toilet freshener according to the invention 1 coming out of the dosing device 2 and one with the dosing device 2 connected, a preparation 10 contained container 9 consists.

The dosing device 2 includes an energy source 3 , a control unit 4 , a sensor unit 5 and a pump 6 These components are preferably integrated in a housing. The pump 6 is about the control unit 4 with the energy source 3 connected. The control unit 4 in turn, with the sensor unit 5 connected, which controls the control of the pump 6 to the control unit 4 passes.

The pump 6 has a pressure line 7 and a suction line 8th on, with the suction line 8th with the preparation 10 containing container 9 connected is. The pump 6 thus promotes the flowable preparation 10 over the suction line 8th from the container 9 in the pressure line 7 from where the preparation 10 to the environment of the toilet-rinser 1 is delivered. The pressure line 7 may in particular such, for. Example, by choosing a suitable diameter, be configured to counteract a gelling of the dispensed preparation.

The container 9 can be a pressure balance valve 11 having a pressure equalization between the environment and the interior of the container 9 causes when the pump 6 preparation 10 from the container 9 pump out.

The pump 6 can through the control unit 4 be controlled so that the conveying direction of the pump 6 is reversed and getting in the pump 6 and the wires 7 and 8th still present preparation in the container 9 be transported back. This backwashing can be particularly advantageous if the preparation 10 for example, for thickening and thus for gluing the lines 7 or 8th inclines.

2 shows a further embodiment of the 1 known metering device, wherein the container 9 pressure side with the pump 6 connected is. The pump 6 builds in the container 9 put pressure on ambient air in the container 9 pumps, leaving the preparation from the container 9 is displaced. On the preparation output side of the container 9 can a valve 11 be provided that the delivery of the preparation 10 from the container 9 only when a defined pressure in the container is reached 9 releases. This can be particularly advantageous if no dropwise metering, but a defined spray or spray similar dosage should be made.

In addition, between the pump 6 and the container 9 in the pressure line 7 a check valve 11a be arranged to prevent that in the container 9 established pressure at standstill of the pump 6 through the pressure line 7 escapes.

3 shows that off 1 known dosing device 2 in which a two-chamber container, consisting of the containers 9 and 13 is formed, with the suction line 8th the pump 6 connected is. The containers 9 and 13 each contain different compositions 10 and 14 ,

The containers 9 and 13 can each be pressure compensation valves 11 . 12 exhibit.

The bottom discharge openings of the containers 9 and 13 are like that with the suction line 8th and the pump 6 connected to the preparations 10 and 14 in defined proportions to each other through the suction line 8th be pumped. For this purpose, it may be necessary, the flow conditions in the bottom-side discharge openings of the container 9 and 13 leading pressure lines 8th to design accordingly.

When using more than two different preparations 10 and 14 it is advantageous to control the dosage such that in each case two compatible formulations successively through the lines 7 . 8th and the pump 6 be encouraged.

The incompatibility of two preparations may be due to an exothermic reaction, thickening, flocculation, pH change, color change or the like, for example.

Furthermore, a third container may be provided, which contains a flushing fluid, that the lines 7 . 8th and the pump 6 of at least one of the preparations 10 . 14 cleans. For flushing the pipes 7 . 8th and the pump 6 Air can also be provided. By flushing the pipes 7 . 8th and the pump 6 can be avoided that residues of incompatible preparations come into contact with each other.

4 shows a training of 3 known toilet rinser 1 , The to the bottom-side discharge openings of the containers 9 and 13 leading pressure lines 8th each have a passive valve 15 and 16 on which a defined adjustment of the metering ratios of the preparations 10 and 14 from the containers 9 and 13 allow.

The valves 15 and 16 can also be designed as a temperature-sensitive bimetallic valves that open or close upon reaching a defined temperature. In particular, the valves can 15 and 16 be selected from each other bimetallic valves, so that, for example, when reaching a defined temperature only a preparation by the pump 6 from one of the containers 9 or 13 can be promoted.

According to the dosing devices 1 - 4 is mean that the control unit 4 by processing the signals from the sensor unit 5 only the pump 6 regulates.

The principal control algorithm 20 is in 6 reproduced in the form of a flowchart.

The control algorithm 20 is activated as soon as the dosing device 2 is turned on. The control unit 4 receives in a first process step 22 the signals of the sensor unit 5 , In the control unit 4 is the received sensor signal with a in the control unit 4 stored threshold value compared.

In the following process step 24 is checked by means of a selection condition, whether the sensor signal and the threshold are in a defined relationship to each other. If the condition is fulfilled, the following is passed through the process step 25 the pump 6 activated. If the condition is not fulfilled, further sensor signals according to the process step 22 received and evaluated by the control unit.

As from the process steps 25 - 29 As can be seen, the pump remains 6 so long in an activated state until a sensor signal is present, that when compared with one in the control unit 4 stored threshold causes a turn off the micropump. According to this procedure, preparation is pumped out of the containers as long as the sensor signal is between two predefined threshold values for switching the pump on or off 6 emotional.

Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable to modify the control described above in such a way that a simple trigger circuit is realized in which the micropump is switched on in accordance with the process step 25 the delivery of a defined amount of preparation causes subsequently to automatically switch off the micropump, without another sensor signal based switch-off condition for the pump 6 to need.

As in 4a it is also possible to see the valves 15 and 16 as by the control unit 4 to execute actively controlled components. The mixing ratio of the two preparations 10 and 14 can be so active and time-varying influenced.

The control underlying this embodiment is in 7 using a flowchart 30 shown.

Another possibility for active and time-variant influencing of the mixing ratios shows 5 , In this embodiment of the invention, each of the containers 9 and 13 with an individual through the control unit 4 to be controlled pump 6 and 19 coupled. The corresponding control algorithm is in 8th resist given.

9 shows the off 1 known metering device, in which on the container 9 an RFID label 42 is arranged, which is suitable, the size and content 10 of the container 9 to identify.

The sensor unit 5 Includes an RFID receiving unit that stores the information on the container 9 arranged RFID label 42 can read. This information is used as a control signal to the control unit 4 directed to one on the contents of the container 9 coordinated dosage of the preparation 10 to effect. In particular, those through the RFID tag 42 caused control signals for selecting a dosing program stored in the control unit can be used.

This makes it possible to provide a universal dosing device for a variety of dosing applications such as the dosing of preparations in dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, toilets or living rooms.

Alternative to the RFID label 42 The skilled person may also provide other means for automatically identifying the container 9 and its contents 10 through the dosing device.

Furthermore, at the durckseitigen opening of the pressure line 7 an additional dispenser 43 be provided. This dispenser 43 causes a deviating from the dropwise delivery distribution of the preparation in the environment of the metering device 1 , This may, for example, to a spray or spray-like delivery of the preparation or a delivery based on evaporation or diffusion. The dispenser 43 For this purpose, it can be designed, for example, as a nozzle, atomizer, distributor plate or porous surface. In particular, the dispensing device can be designed such that it counteracts gelling of the released preparations.

10 shows that off 1 known toilet flush with a dosing device 2 detachable container 9 , The container 9 has at its lower, bottom end a nozzle 47 on top of the dosing unit 1 provided recording 48 is insertable. The stub 47 can be closed by a closure means, so that first, in the unused condition of the container 9 , a leakage of preparation 10 from the container 9 is prevented, which, however, by inserting the container 9 into the dosing device 2 or the nozzle 47 in the recording 48 is destroyed, allowing a release of the preparation 10 from the container 9 through the dosing device 2 can be done in the environment. The toilet flusher in its assembled state is the 11 refer to.

The control unit 4 is also with an acoustic transducer 46 coupled, which converts a voltage or a current of the control unit into an audible acoustic signal. The control unit 4 may comprise a memory for a plurality of acoustic signals and / or music and / or voice recordings, which are manually and sensetriggered and executed, ie to the acoustic transducer 46 be slipped.

Furthermore, a light source 44 with the control unit 2 connected, according to a predefined operating state of the dosing unit 2 is switched on or off. The light source can be designed, for example, as an LED or LCD display.

About the actuator 45 can the dosing device 2 be switched on or off. Furthermore, it is conceivable that via the actuating element 45 different in the control unit 4 stored programs are retrieved and executed.

In 12 a further embodiment of the toilet-rinser according to the invention is shown, in which the energy source 3 in the form of a battery in the container 9 is integrated. The battery 3 is via a correspondingly designed coupling with the dosing device 2 electrically connected. The capacity of the battery 3 is advantageously designed so that they the metering device 2 over the period of use until complete emptying of the preparation 10 from the container 9 fed with energy.

13 shows that off 5 principle known construction of the toilet flusher according to the invention in a more detailed schematic sketch. The chamber 9 is through the wall 49 divided into two chambers, in which a first preparation 10 and a second preparation 14 are stored. Each of the chambers is by a respective pressure compensation valve 11 respectively. 12 communicating with the environment and has at its bottom end in each case a connecting piece 47a respectively. 47b on.

In the 15 - 17 a further embodiment of the toilet flushing device according to the invention is shown. The toilet bowl consists of the dosing unit 2 and the detachable on the dosing device 2 fixable container 9 , The dosing device has a raised rear wall from which perpendicular to the fastening means 52 extends in the form of a stirrup. The coat hanger 52 is positioned between the edge of the toilet and the toilet seat, where it is fixed by the resting toilet seat on the toilet bowl. How out 17 can be seen, in addition, a suction button on the dosing device may be provided which secures the toilet freshener additionally by a vacuum effect on the toilet.

On the upside-down head side of the fastener 52 is a pressure or strain gauge sensor as a sensor unit 5 arranged. Will a pressure on this sensor unit 5 exerted, for example, by a toilet seat on which a toilet user takes place, so generates the sensor unit 5 a corresponding signal to the control unit 4 of the dosing device 2 is forwarded.

The container 9 is separable from the dosing device, which is in 16 is clearly visible. The container 9 has a wick system inside 50 on, with the preparation by means of the delivery element 43a from the container 9 is released by evaporation to the environment. The stub 47 and the recording 48 in the dosing device 2 form in the assembled state of container 9 and dosing device 2 a liquid-tight connection.

At the temple 52 is a delivery element 43 provided in the form of a nozzle head. The nozzle head 43 is movable at the temple 52 arranged so that it is alignable by the user. Between nozzle head 43 and the hanger 52 is a telescopic element 53 arranged, by that the length of the bracket 52 and thus the application point of the nozzle head 43 is adjustable. With the nozzle head 43 the preparation becomes a spray cone 54 generated, like, out 18 can be seen, a defined application field within the toilet bowl 55 wetted.

A further, alternative embodiment of the toilet rinser according to the invention is in 19 displayed. In this embodiment, the containers 9 and 13 firmly with the dosing device 2 connected and can not by a not in the 19 refilled opening to be refilled.

20 shows one at the distal end of the stirrup 52 arranged delivery element 43 with an integrated sensor 5 and two nozzles 56 and 57 , The sensor 5 is designed in this embodiment as an infrared sensor or ultrasonic sensor.

The nozzles 56 and 57 may be configured to have the same or different spray cones 54a . 54b produce what is good in 21 is recognizable. As in 22 shown, the spray cone 54a and 54b on that same application field inside a toilet bowl 55 be directed. From the 23 and 24 It can also be seen, however, that it is also possible to direct the two spray cones in different directions.

In the in 23 illustrated embodiment, is the delivery element 43 by a hook inside at the bottom of the toilet bowl 55 fixed. The delivery element 43 is displaceable on the bracket 52 Arranged by the arrow in 23 is symbolized. In addition, the toilet freshener 1 through the fastener 50 , which is designed as a suction button, on the outside edge of the toilet bowl 55 fixed.

The delivery element 43 has a first nozzle 56 and a second nozzle 57 on, spaced from each other and so in the dispensing element 43 are arranged that their respective spray cone 54a and 54b do not overlap in different directions. Such is the spray cone 54a the first nozzle 56 inside the toilet bowl 55 while the spray cone 54b the second nozzle 57 is directed to the edge of the toilet bowl. It is also possible, as in 24 shown a spray cone 54b under the edge of the toilet bowl 55 is directed. The spray cone 54a and 54b may be formed from the same or different compositions.

From the delivery element protrudes a sensor unit 5 in the form of a capacitive sensor under the edge of the toilet 55 so that the sensor 5 is acted upon in the Spülwasserbetätigung of water. The sensor 5 is designed in such a way that it has no significant influence on the flushing water in the toilet bowl 55 takes.

Another embodiment of the container 9 and 13 and the dosing device 2 show the 25 , The reception of the containers 9 and 13 in the dosing device is pivotable by a dosing device 2 arranged flap 58 closable. The two containers 9 and 13 can in the opened state of the flap 58 separate from the holder of the dosing device 2 be removed or used.

25 shows in a further embodiment of the invention, a toilet freshener 1 with two individually replaceable containers 9 and 13 and a viewing flap 58 in closed and open position. The viewing flap 58 is articulated on the rear wall of the toilet rinser in such a shape that the viewing flap 58 the in the toilet-dishwasher 1 used container 9 and 13 preferably completely covered. The viewing flap 58 may be equipped with closure means providing a child-resistant closure of the viewing flap 58 allow with the toilet flush and so unintentional access to the container 9 and 13 prevent.

On the front of the toilet rinser are the bulbs 44 and the actuator 45 arranged, wherein these in the closed state of the viewing flap 58 are not covered, but are freely accessible.

Claims (12)

Toilet freshener ( 1 ) for introducing at least one active substance preparation into a toilet bowl, comprising - a dosing device ( 2 ) - an energy source ( 3 ) A control unit ( 4 ) - a sensor unit ( 5 ) - a pump, wherein these components are preferably integrated in a housing, and - at least a first container ( 9 ), which is a first active ingredient preparation ( 10 ) and with the dosing device ( 2 ), and - wherein the pump is in the manner of the energy source ( 3 ), the control unit ( 4 ) and the sensor unit ( 5 ) that a defined delivery amount of the at least one active substance preparation ( 10 ) regardless of the arrangement of the toilet rinser ( 1 ) in or on the toilet bowl and / or on the toilet bowl ( 1 ) is dispensed rinse water amount in the toilet bowl, characterized in that the dosing device ( 2 ) is arranged on the outer edge of the toilet bowl and wherein the sensor unit ( 5 ) is configured in such a way that the detection of a rinsing process is realized without influencing the flow conditions in a toilet bowl, wherein the sensor unit ( 5 ) comprises at least one sensor from the group of motion sensors, vibration sensors, sound pressure sensors and / or ultrasonic sensors. Toilet washer according to claim 1, characterized in that the container ( 9 ) with the pressure side of the pump ( 6 ) can be coupled. Toilet washer according to claim 1, characterized in that the container ( 9 ) with the suction side to the pump ( 6 ) can be coupled. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that between container ( 9 . 13 ) and pump ( 6 ) a valve ( 15 . 16 ) is arranged. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve ( 15 . 16 ) actively by the control unit ( 4 ) is controllable in such a way that a first control signal opens the valve ( 15 . 16 ) and a second control signal closing the valve ( 15 . 16 ) causes. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one second container ( 13 ), which has a second composition ( 14 ), with the dosing device ( 2 ) can be coupled. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the delivery of preparation ( 10 . 14 ) by a first pump ( 6 ) with the first container ( 9 ) and a second pump ( 19 ) connected to the second container ( 13 ) is coupled, is effected. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container ( 9 ) an RFID tag ( 42 ) includes at least information about the contents of the container ( 9 ) and by the sensor unit ( 5 ) are readable. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing device ( 2 ) is designed at least splash-proof. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the energy source ( 3 ), the control unit ( 4 ), the sensor unit ( 5 ) and the pump ( 7 . 19 ) are shed in such a way that the dosing device ( 2 ) is waterproof. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit ( 4 ) is a programmable microcontroller. Toilet washer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the microcontroller, a plurality of metering programs is stored, which are selectable and executable according to the container coupled to the dosing device.

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