WO2023285912A1

WO2023285912A1 - Portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid and sanitising system provided with such a portable apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2023285912A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/056183
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mohamed OUASSIF
Original assignee: Handhy S.R.L.
Priority date: 2021-07-14
Filing date: 2022-07-04
Publication date: 2023-01-19
Also published as: EP4370251A1

Abstract

A portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid (1) comprising: a wearable element (10) and a dispensing device (15) connected to the wearable element (10) is described. Where the dispensing device comprises: a tank (20) adapted to contain a sanitising liquid (A), an electro-mechanical pump (25) in fluid communication with the tank (20) to dispense the sanitising liquid (A), and an electronic control and command unit (50) operatively connected to the electro-mechanical pump (25) and configured to actuate the electro-mechanical pump so that it delivers a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid (A).

Description

PORTABLE APPARATUS DISPENSING SANITISING LIQUID AND SANITISING SYSTEM PROVIDED WITH SUCH A PORTABLE APPARATUS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a sanitising apparatus, in particular a portable sanitising apparatus.

PRIOR ART

Portable sanitising apparatuses are known that comprise a wearable element, such as a bracelet or a necklace, which allow to always carry along a small quantity of a sanitising liquid conveniently ready for use, for example for hand sanitisation.

Such apparatuses generally comprise a manual dispensing device fastened to the wearable element and which is provided with a tank adapted to contain the sanitising liquid and a mechanical manual pump connected to said tank for dispensing the sanitising fluid.

Such a mechanical hand pump generally comprises a mechanism similar to that of household liquid soap dispensers or atmospheric pressure tank sprayers, which dispense the liquid by generating a depression within an intake duct inserted into the tank, where the generation of the depression sucking the liquid is proportional to the pressure exerted by the user on a lever or actuating rod of the mechanism itself. Alternatively, the tank can be shaped as an elastic (resilient) bag provided with a dispensing nozzle into which a non-return valve can be inserted. By pressing the bag, the user generates a pressure that allows the liquid to outflow.

The known solutions therefore require the application of a non-zero actuating force by the user in order to be able to dispense the sanitising liquid. This force may in some cases lead to a displacement of the wearable element and thus of the position of the dispensing nozzle, as a result of which the liquid could be wasted on the floor or dirty the clothes of the user. Furthermore, the force applied may not be sufficient to dispense a correct quantity of sanitising liquid, thus making sanitisation less effective.

An object of the present invention is therefore to make available a more comfortable, efficient and hygienic sanitising apparatus than the devices of the prior art.

Such object is achieved by the features of the invention reported in the independent claim. The dependent claims outline preferred and/or particularly advantageous aspects of the invention. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

In particular, the invention makes available a portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid comprising:

- a wearable element, and

- a dispensing device connected, for example removably, to the wearable element and comprising: o a tank adapted to contain a sanitising liquid, o an electro-mechanical pump in fluid communication with the tank to dispense the sanitising liquid, and o an electronic control and command unit operatively connected to the electro-mechanical pump and configured to actuate the electro mechanical pump so that it delivers a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid.

Thanks to this solution, it is not necessary to exert any particular force on the dispensing device in order to obtain the dispensing of sanitising liquid, which allows for fewer errors during dispensing and to always dispense a precise quantity of sanitising liquid.

According to one aspect of the invention, the dispensing device may comprise an activation system operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit and configured to detect a predetermined activation input, and wherein the electronic control and command unit is configured to actuate the electro-mechanical pump when it detects by means of the activation system the predetermined activation input.

According to another aspect of the invention, the activation system may be configured to detect a predetermined activation input that is without direct contact with the dispensing device.

Since the area in which the user presses to actuate the manual mechanical pump or to squeeze the elastic tank, can in turn become a fertile surface for the proliferation of viruses and bacteria, the characteristics of the invention make available a portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid that is more hygienic than the apparatuses of the prior art. In particular, in this way, since the activation by the user with his hand, potentially a vector of viruses and bacteria, is not necessary, the external surfaces of the portable apparatus do not risk being contaminated. According to yet another aspect of the invention, the activation system may comprise at least one accelerometer operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit and the predetermined activation input is a predetermined series of consecutive accelerations of the dispensing device.

In this way, the portable apparatus is efficient and compact, as well as fast to operate even with one hand. In addition, it can allow detecting an activation input of the type without direct contact with the dispensing device.

The predetermined series of accelerations may be given either by a predetermined movement of the part of the user’s body to which the wearable is fastened (e.g. a shaking or rotating movement or according to other predefined patterns) and/or by a series of repeated taps (e.g. two) given to the dispensing device (known as a double tap). In the event that the activation input is the movement of the part of the body to which the wearable element is fastened, it is possible to avoid direct contact of the user’s hands with the dispensing device. In the case of repeated touch, there is a contact, albeit very brief, of the user’s hand with the dispensing device, but this activation input allows for a very quick and comfortable activation of the dispensing device.

According to another aspect of the invention inherent in the activation of dispensing without direct contact with the dispensing device, which makes it possible to avoid possible contamination of the dispensing device, the activation system may comprise a wireless receiver operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit, and the predetermined activation input is a predetermined wireless signal.

The invention further makes available a sanitising system comprising a portable sanitising apparatus according to claim 1 and a refilling apparatus of said portable sanitising apparatus, said refilling device comprising:

- a tank adapted to contain the sanitising liquid,

- a refilling nozzle, and

- an electro-mechanical pump in fluid communication with the tank and configured to send the sanitising liquid contained in the tank to the refilling nozzle.

In this way it is possible to refill the dispensing device easily, quickly and without waste. In addition, the refilling apparatus can be placed inside public places and workplaces, so that the user of the portable apparatus never runs the risk of running out of sanitising liquid, thus guaranteeing optimal conditions for sanitising the environment and the people and reducing the risk of transmission of viruses and bacteria.

According to one aspect of the invention, the dispensing device of the movable apparatus can comprise an electronic device that makes available an identification code of the dispensing device itself, and in this case the refilling apparatus comprises a transceiver device (wireless or by wire) configured to communicate with the electronic device of the dispensing device, and an electronic control and command unit operatively connected to the electro-mechanical pump and to the transceiver device of the refilling apparatus, and wherein the electronic control and command unit of the refilling apparatus actuates the electro-mechanical pump to send the sanitising liquid to the refilling nozzle only when it detects (by means of the transceiver device) that the identification code of the dispensing device corresponds to a predetermined code.

This prevents tampering with the refilling apparatus and the use thereof with inappropriate dispensing devices, which could lead to malfunctions in the long term. Another possible aspect of the invention, connected to the previous one, provides that the tank of the refilling apparatus can be shaped as a removable cartridge provided with an electronic device that makes available an identification code of the cartridge itself, and in this case in which the electronic control and command unit of the refilling apparatus actuates the electro-mechanical pump to send the liquid to the refilling nozzle only when it detects (by means of the transceiver device) both that the identification code of the dispensing device corresponds to a respective predetermined code, and that the identification code of the cartridge corresponds to a respective predetermined code.

In this way it is possible to ensure that the refilling of the tank of the dispensing device takes place only by means of the liquid present in the cartridge of the refilling apparatus, which can therefore be a predetermined sanitising liquid with specific chosen characteristics suitable to ensure the correct operation of the dispensing device, to increase its useful life and to ensure that the exact predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid is dispensed.

According to another aspect of the invention, the refilling apparatus may comprise a housing seat for the portable apparatus at which the refilling nozzle is positioned and which is configured to receive to size at least a portion of said portable apparatus, and/or a clamping assembly of the portable apparatus, at which the refilling nozzle is positioned and which is movable between a first position, in which it binds the sanitising apparatus to the refilling apparatus, and a second position, in which it allows the sanitising apparatus to be removed from the refilling apparatus.

In this way, the user does not have to hold the portable device during the refilling phase, and the correct positioning of the refilling nozzle with respect to the dispensing nozzle is also ensured.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, which for example can be added to or can be an alternative to the above-mentioned configurations of the electronic control and command unit of the dispensing apparatus concerning the identification of the dispensing device and/or of the removable tank (cartridge), the electronic control and command unit of the refilling apparatus can be configured to automatically actuate the electro-mechanical pump to send the liquid to the refilling nozzle only when it detects all of the following conditions:

- by means of the transceiver device it detects that the identification code of the dispensing device corresponds to a respective predetermined code,

- when it detects, either by means of a sensor, the presence of the portable dispensing apparatus in the seat or that the clamping assembly is in the first position.

In this way, the refilling phase can automatically take place without the need for any contact of the user’s hands on the refilling apparatus, allowing a high level of sanitation of the refilling apparatus itself to be maintained.

Preferably, the electronic control and command unit of the refilling apparatus can be configured to automatically actuate the electro-mechanical pump to send the liquid to the refilling nozzle only when it detects all of the following conditions:

- by means of the transceiver device it detects that the identification code of the cartridge corresponds to a respective predetermined code,

- when it detects, either by means of a sensor, the presence of the portable dispensing apparatus in the seat or that the clamping assembly is in the first position. According to a further aspect of the invention, the electronic control and command unit can be configured to perform an automated cleaning cycle in which it activates the dispensing of a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid through the refilling nozzle automatically after a predetermined time interval since the last dispensing.

This prevents the sanitising liquid from drying out in the refilling nozzle, thus ensuring the perfect functionality of the refilling apparatus at all times.

The invention may further provide that the refilling apparatus may comprise a dispensing nozzle in fluid communication with the electro-mechanical pump, distinct from the refilling nozzle, and a manual activation system operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit for dispensing fluid through the dispensing nozzle. In this way, the refilling apparatus allows the hands of even those who are not provided with the portable apparatus to be sanitised.

When the dispensing nozzle of the refilling apparatus is present, the refilling apparatus may comprise a generator of an optically visible light beam in a direction in which the dispensing nozzle dispenses the sanitising liquid.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features and advantages of the invention will be more apparent after reading the following description provided by way of non-limiting example, with the aid of the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 is an axonometric view of a portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid according to the invention illustrated in a phase of dispensing the sanitising liquid onto a user’s hand, while being worn on the wrist of a user.

Figure 2 is a side view of the portable apparatus of Figure 1 while being worn by the user.

Figure 3 is a schematic sectional view of the portable apparatus according to section plane Ill-Ill.

Figure 4 is a side view of a refilling apparatus according to the invention, illustrated in a phase in which it dispenses sanitising liquid onto a user’s hand.

Figure 5 is a side view of a sanitising system according to the invention, provided with the refilling apparatus and the portable apparatus of the following figures, and in which the refilling apparatus is illustrated in a phase in which it refills a tank of the portable apparatus with sanitising liquid. Figure 6 is a front view of the sanitising system of Figure 5.

Figure 7 is a schematic sectional view of part of the sanitising system of Figure 6 according to section plane VI-VI.

Figure 8 is an enlargement of detail VIII of Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a schematic view in partial section of another embodiment of the sanitising system, in particular one that is provided with a different type of refilling apparatus, shown in a first operating phase.

Figure 10 is a schematic view in partial section of the embodiment of the sanitising system in Figure 9 illustrated in a second operating phase.

Figure 11 and Figure 12 are different embodiments of the refilling apparatus.

BEST MODE TO IMPLEMENT THE INVENTION

With particular reference to these figures, a portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid A is indicated globally with 1 , hereinafter abbreviated as portable apparatus 1 , comprising a tank adapted to contain the sanitising liquid to be dispensed. The portable apparatus 1 is in particular of the wearable type.

In fact, the portable apparatus 1 is preferably a wearable element, such as a bracelet 10, illustrated in the figures, which allows the portable apparatus to be worn on the wrist as if it were a watch. The bracelet can be elastic and/or provided with means (not illustrated) to allow a variation in length in order to adapt to the user’s physiognomic characteristics.

Flowever, in less preferred and not illustrated embodiments, the wearable element could be a necklace or a brooch or a belt or a belt pouch or a band configured to wrap a portion of the arm.

The wearable element does not comprise a tank of sanitising liquid.

The portable apparatus 1 then comprises a dispensing device 15 connected, preferably removably, to the wearable element and which is configured to dispense the sanitising liquid, in particular is configured to dispense a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid.

The removable connection of the dispensing device with the wearable element can be achieved in various ways, for example with a clip or interlocking or button or magnetic system or with Velcro or other systems suitable for the purpose.

The dispensing device is preferably shaped and fastened to the wearable element so as not to contact the user’s body directly.

With particular reference to the sectional view of Figure 3, the dispensing device 15 comprises a tank 20, which is the aforementioned tank of the portable apparatus, adapted to contain the sanitising liquid A to be dispensed.

Such a tank 20 is preferably rigid, i.e. not deformable under normal working loads to which it is subjected during operation.

The dispensing of the sanitising liquid present in the tank takes place by means of an electro-mechanical pump 25 of the dispensing device itself. Said electro-mechanical pump is in particular a motor pump, i.e. a system provided with an electric motor and with a pump actuated by said electric motor for pumping the sanitising liquid for the purpose of dispensing the same.

Said electro-mechanical pump 25 is in fluid communication, preferably direct, with the tank, to dispense the sanitising liquid contained therein, for example to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid.

In the embodiment illustrated, the electro-mechanical pump 25 is housed inside the tank 20 itself.

The electro-mechanical pump 25 is directly fluidically connected to a dispensing nozzle 30 of the sanitising liquid pumped from the tank 20. This dispensing nozzle allows the sanitising fluid pumped by the electro-mechanical pump 25 to be conveyed externally to the dispensing device 15.

In the embodiment illustrated, in which the electro-mechanical pump 25 is located inside the tank, said dispensing nozzle 30 passes through an (external) wall of the tank itself, i.e. it is made (entirely) in said wall of the tank itself. For example, it is made as a through hole in said wall directly in fluid communication with the electro-mechanical pump 25.

In the embodiment illustrated, the dispensing nozzle 30 is part of the electro-mechanical pump 25.

It is not excluded that in an embodiment not illustrated, the dispensing nozzle 30 can also protrude externally with respect to an external surface of the tank wall in which the through hole is made.

The dispensing device 15 comprises an electric battery 35 that supplies the electro mechanical pump 25, electrically, for example galvanically, connected to the electro- mechanical pump 25, i.e. to the electric motor of the electro-mechanical pump 25.

For example, the dispensing device 15 comprises a casing or enclosure 40 (closed) within which the tank 20, the electro-mechanical pump 25 and the electric battery 35 are housed.

The dispensing nozzle 30 then puts the electro-mechanical pump in fluid communication with an environment outside the casing. Preferably, the only possible fluid communication between the outside of the casing and the inside of the casing is through the dispensing nozzle 30.

In the embodiment illustrated, the tank is made as a single body with the casing 40 and the battery 35 is located within the tank. In practice, the electric battery is in contact with the sanitising liquid.

However, it is not excluded that in an embodiment not illustrated, the casing may have a first chamber in which the tank is realised and a second chamber fluidically isolated from the first and in which the electric battery 35 is housed.

When the tank is made as a single body with the casing, the dispensing nozzle passes through or is made in an (external) wall of the casing itself.

Preferably the dispensing device 15 is entirely contained within its casing.

The dispensing device may comprise a refilling element (not illustrated) of the electric battery, which may comprise either electrical contacts, for example accessible from the outside of the casing 40, or an antenna for wireless recharging. In such cases the battery is not of the type removable from the casing. However, it is not excluded that in a less preferred and not embodiment illustrated, the casing may comprise an opening flap for access to a battery removably fixed to the casing.

The dispensing device may comprise a vibrating assembly 45, for example connected to the casing and placed inside it. This vibrating assembly comprises an electric motor provided with an output shaft to which an eccentric body is fixed with respect to the axis of rotation of the output shaft. This vibrating assembly allows the dispensing device to vibrate in order to provide a haptic feedback to the user.

The dispensing device 15 comprises an electronic control and command unit 50 operatively connected to the electro-mechanical pump and the supply battery to actuate the electro-mechanical pump so that it delivers a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid. For example, the electronic control and command unit 50 may comprise a memory unit in which the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid to be dispensed by the electro mechanical pump 25 is stored, i.e. in which the actuation time of the electro-mechanical pump necessary to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid is stored. The electronic control and command unit may further comprise a transceiver 55, for example wireless, adapted to allow a communication of the dispensing device with a remote device, for example external to the casing 40 of the dispensing device.

The portable apparatus, for example the dispensing device thereof, comprises an electronic device that makes available an identification code of the portable apparatus itself, i.e. of the dispensing device itself in the illustrated case in which it is removable from the wearable element and it is the only one having a tank. In the embodiment illustrated, such an electronic device is realised by the wireless transceiver 55 and/or by the electronic control and command unit 50. However, it is not ruled out that in an alternative embodiment said electronic device could be an RFID tag or a microchip provided with a memory unit containing the identification code of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device, and connected to an interface port adapted to allow the physical connection of a device adapted to read the memory unit.

The dispensing device comprises an activation system operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit 50 and configured to detect, or measure, a predetermined activation input (or signal), detected (or measured) in which the electronic control and command unit 50 actuates the electro-mechanical pump 25 to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid.

The electronic control and command unit 50 is preferably configured to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid after a preset waiting time interval after detecting the predetermined activation input.

The electronic control and command unit 50 may further be operatively connected to the vibrating assembly 45 and be configured to actuate said vibrating assembly after detecting the activation input and prior to actuating the electro-mechanical pump 25.

In particular, since the moment in which the activation input is received, the electronic control and command unit 50 can be configured to wait for a preset time interval, after which it actuates the vibrating assembly (in order to generate a vibration) for another preset time interval, after which (either immediately or after a further preset waiting time interval) it actuates the electro-mechanical pump 25 to dispense the liquid.

It is not excluded that in an alternative form not illustrated, the dispensing device, alternatively or in addition to the vibrating assembly, in order to provide feedback to the user, may comprise a visual or acoustic beacon. In practice, the dispensing device comprises a feedback assembly operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit, which can be configured to emit a feedback signal, via said feedback assembly, indicating the reception of the activation input and before commanding the dispensing of the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid. This feedback assembly comprises at least one of a vibrating assembly, a visual beacon or an acoustic beacon. The activation system may be configured to receive an external wireless signal or to detect a movement of the wearable element and/or of the dispensing device 15 or to detect a touch of the dispensing device or it may be a switch (the latter option being less preferred than the others).

It is specified that touching the dispensing device means touching it from the outside, i.e. from the outside of the casing, for example on the casing. Such a touch can, for example, be made by the user with the fingers of his hand.

In the case in which the activation system is configured to detect a movement of the wearable element and/or of the dispensing device 15 or to detect a touch, for example repeated, of the dispensing device, said activation system comprises a sensor and the electronic control and command unit 50 is then configured to monitor (cyclically and automatically at a predetermined sampling time interval) through said sensor a value of a (predetermined) parameter indicative of the activation input and to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid when it detects either that the value of said measured indicative parameter falls within a preset range of values or that the value of the indicative parameter follows a preset trend in a predetermined time interval (said trend being understood both as values that must fall within a predetermined numerical range and as variation of the values in the predetermined time interval that must follow a predetermined law; the time interval in this second case must be greater than the sampling time interval).

The sensor is for example at least one of an accelerometer, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, an infrared sensor, a scanner, and a gyroscope.

If the activation system is configured to detect a movement of the wearable element, it may comprise an accelerometer adapted to detect such a movement and/or a gyroscope.

In particular, in this case, the sensor comprises an accelerometer 60 (possibly a plurality of accelerometers), for example integral without residual degrees of freedom to the tank 20, i.e. to the casing 40, and the parameter indicative of the predetermined input is a predetermined series of consecutive accelerations (in the three-dimensional space) of the dispensing device. The predetermined activation input may therefore be a movement, according to a preset scheme, of a part of the user’s body (e.g. the arm in the illustrated case of the bracelet) to which the wearable element is fastened, which movement is then reflected in a movement of the wearable element.

Even in the case in which the activation system is configured to detect a repeated touch of the dispensing device, for example of the tank, i.e. of the casing, performed by means of a finger of the user’s hand, the sensor preferably comprises an accelerometer. As in the previous case, the accelerometer 60 is integral without residual degrees of freedom to the tank 20, i.e. to the casing 40, and the parameter indicative of the predetermined input is a predetermined series of consecutive accelerations (in the three-dimensional space) of the dispensing device.

The predetermined series of accelerations for detecting the repeated touch is different from that for detecting the movement of the wearable element, i.e. of the part of the body to which the wearable element is fastened.

The accelerometer therefore allows the detection of both the activation input as movement of the part of the body to which the wearable element is fastened, and the activation input as repeated touch of the dispensing device. Between the two activation inputs it is preferred that the predetermined input is the movement of the user’s arm according to a preset scheme, as this input allows not to touch the device. However, the repeated touch allows a very fast and efficient activation of the dispensing device.

In detail, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein the sensor comprises (at least) the accelerometer, the electronic control and command unit 50 is configured to monitor (cyclically and automatically at predetermined sampling time intervals) via said accelerometer 60 a value of the acceleration of the dispensing device (in the three- dimensional space) and to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid when it detects that a plurality of values of the acceleration detected in the predetermined time interval vary (numerically) following a predetermined law of variation and fall within a predetermined numerical range.

As already mentioned, with the accelerometer and the electronic control and command unit 50 thus configured it is possible to detect both the input as a movement of a part of the user’s body and the repeated touch of the dispensing device, since accelerations are generated in both cases on the dispensing device. However, it may be preferable to use it only to detect the movement input of a part of the user’s body, as it does not require touching the dispensing device.

In the case where the predetermined input is the repeated touch of the dispensing device, the predetermined acceleration variation law may provide that the detected acceleration value exceeds a predetermined upper threshold value a first time (for a predetermined time interval), then falls below a predetermined lower threshold value (for a predetermined time interval that may be different from the time interval for which the acceleration value must exceed the upper threshold value) and immediately thereafter again exceeds the predetermined upper threshold value.

In the case where the predetermined input is the movement of a part of the user’s body to which the wearable element is fastened, the predetermined acceleration variation law may be a personalised acceleration variation law, which is obtained during an execution of a learning phase.

For example, the electronic control and command unit may be configured to record, for a predetermined time interval, data coming from the sensor configured to detect a movement of the wearable element, i.e., of the wearable dispensing device (such a sensor being e.g., accelerometer and/or gyroscope).

Subsequently, in the learning phase, the electronic control and command unit is configured to process the acquired data, or preferably to send them to a remote control and command unit, e.g. in the cloud, for the generation of a personalised acceleration variation law based on the recorded data, which is then subsequently in the electronic control and command unit itself.

This learning phase can be activated (i.e. when the electronic control and command unit starts the recording phase of the sensor data) by means of a predetermined scheme of interactions with the portable apparatus and/or movements of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device, or it can be activated by means of a remote signal provided by an external control and command unit, for example being a part of a smartphone.

Both in the case of a law of variation of the accelerations of a predetermined type and the case of a personalised type, the electronic control and command unit is configured to apply a tolerance range to the exact values of the law itself.

For example, this tolerance can be varied, preferably by communication of the control and command electronic unit of the dispensing device with a remote control and command electronic unit, preferably being part of a smartphone on which a special software for the management of the dispensing device is run.

Furthermore, by means of such a remote device, in order to increase the accuracy of detection of the activation input, and in the event that the wearable element is a bracelet, it is possible to indicate, in order to implement the law of variation of the accelerations, whether the bracelet is worn on the right wrist or on the left wrist.

The law of variation of the accelerations can be the result of a sequential and predetermined mathematical algorithm, or be obtained by machine learning (artificial intelligence).

As already mentioned, it is advantageous to use an activation input that does not involve the contact with the dispensing device; this can also be achieved when the activation system is configured to receive a signal external to the portable apparatus. In this case, the activation input is a wireless signal, which is a signal formed by electromagnetic waves. Such a signal may be at least one of a radio, bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi signal.

In such a case, the activation system comprises either a wireless receiver or a wireless transceiver, for example the wireless transceiver 55, and the electronic control and command unit 50 is configured to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid when it detects a predetermined wireless signal.

In a preferred embodiment, the wireless activation signal is generated by an RFID tag (Radio-Frequency IDentification) external to the dispensing apparatus, in which case the sensor comprises a wireless transceiver, for example the one of the electronic control and command unit 50, and the electronic control and command unit 50 is configured to cyclically send by means of the transceiver an energizing wireless signal configured to energize the RFID tag, and to actuate the electro-mechanical pump 25 in order to dispense a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid when it detects a wireless signal emitted by the RFID tag following the energizing wireless signal.

As can be guessed, the preferred activation inputs are the movement of a part of the user’s body to which the wearable is fastened and a wireless signal external to the dispensing device. The repeated touching of the dispensing device comes immediately after them.

The activation system of the preferred embodiment of the dispensing device is configured to receive an external wireless signal, to detect a movement of the wearable element and/or of the dispensing device 15 and to detect a (repeated) touch of the dispensing device.

In the preferred dispensing device, the activation system therefore comprises both the accelerometer 60 and the wireless transceiver, in particular configured to interface with RFID tags. This configuration also makes it possible not to waive the least preferred, but extremely functional, activation input by repeated touch of the dispensing device.

It is not excluded that such preferred activation inputs may be detected or delivered differently than above.

For example, the repeated touch of a finger on the dispensing device could be detected by a capacitive or temperature sensor (e.g. in the form of an infrared sensor) or a scanner.

The movement of a part of the user’s body to which the wearable element is fastened could be detected by means of inertial sensors in general or sensors for detecting mechanical movements provided with metal balls that move to create an electrical contact between two conductive materials.

As far as the wireless signal is concerned, it could be sent directly from an active remote device, in which case the sensor could be a simple wireless receiver instead of a wireless transceiver as in the case of the RFID tag.

In all cases in which the dispensing device comprises the accelerometer and/or the gyroscope, the electronic control and command unit of the dispensing device can be configured to activate the dispensing of the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid only after reception (and recognition) of the predetermined activation input and only when it detects by means of said sensors that the dispensing device, in particular the dispensing nozzle thereof, is in a predetermined position and orientation in the three- dimensional space (i.e. within a predetermined position and orientation range).

In further detail, the electronic control and command unit of the dispensing device can be configured to, after detecting the activation input and detecting that the position and orientation falls within the preset position and orientation range, emit a feedback signal via the feedback assembly, and then wait for a predetermined cancellation time interval before activating the dispensing of the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid. During this predetermined cancellation time interval, the electronic control and command unit is configured to monitor by means of the accelerometer and/or the gyroscope the position and the orientation of the dispensing device and is configured to compare the monitored position and orientation with the predetermined position and orientation range, and to cancel the dispensing of the sanitising liquid in the event that the monitored position and orientation do not fall within a predetermined position and orientation range. In this way the user can easily cancel the dispensing in case the activation input has been delivered incorrectly or he has changed his mind.

As in the case of the learning phase of the law of variation of the personalised accelerations, also in the present case the electronic control and command unit can be configured in a substantially identical way to perform a learning phase of a personalised position and orientation, so as to set a personalised position and orientation configuration based on which to perform the dispensing of the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid.

With reference to Figures 5-10, a sanitising system 100,100’ comprising the portable sanitising apparatus 1 and a refilling apparatus 110,110’, 110”, 110”’ of said portable apparatus (refilling apparatus also illustrated in Figures 3, 11,12) has been illustrated. The refilling apparatus comprises a tank 115 adapted to contain the sanitising liquid A for refilling the tank of the portable apparatus, i.e. the tank 20.

In particular, the refilling apparatus 110,110’, 110”, 11 O’” comprises a casing or box-like body 111 inside which the tank 115 is contained.

Said box-like body 111 may comprise a base 120,120’ to allow the refilling apparatus to rest on a surface, such as the floor or a table, and the rest of the box-like body rises above said base, as illustrated in the figures. In the embodiment 120 it is adapted to be positioned on a table, while in the embodiment 120’, where it has a greater vertical extension, it is adapted to be positioned on the floor. Alternatively, such box-like body 111 may comprise means for fixing the box-like body itself to a wall, such as holes for retaining threaded connection members, as illustrated in the embodiment of the refilling apparatus 110’”.

The tank 115 may be shaped as a cartridge removably fixable to the box-like body. This makes it possible to quickly replace a cartridge that has run out of sanitising liquid with a new one that is ready to use, minimising the downtimes of the refilling apparatus. In this case, the box-like body comprises a housing seat for the cartridge shaped and/or provided with means configured to allow the removable fixing of the cartridge to the box like body.

Such a cartridge may be provided with an electronic device 125 that makes an identification code of the cartridge itself available.

Such electronic device 125 may be a microchip or an RFID tag or a transceiver. Preferably it is an RFID tag.

The refilling apparatus 110,110’, 110”, 110”’ comprises a refilling nozzle 130 by means of which the sanitising liquid is transferred to the dispensing nozzle 30 of the dispensing device 15.

The refilling nozzle 130 is then configured and shaped to interface with the tank of the portable apparatus (i.e., with a refilling and/or dispensing opening of the portable apparatus), for example with the dispensing nozzle 30 of the dispensing device, to transfer the sanitising liquid.

In particular, the refilling nozzle 130 is shaped so as to achieve a fluidic seal with the tank of the portable apparatus (i.e. with the refilling and/or dispensing opening of the portable apparatus), for example with the dispensing nozzle 30, so that the sanitising liquid passes from the tank of the refilling apparatus to the tank of the portable apparatus without spillages of sanitising liquid.

For example, the refilling nozzle 130 may be provided with an elastic sealing gasket 135 (resilient), for example annular, positioned so as to achieve a fluid seal between the refilling nozzle and the tank of the portable apparatus (i.e., with the refilling and/or dispensing opening of the portable apparatus), for example between the refilling nozzle and the dispensing nozzle 30 when these are pressed against each other. For example, the sealing gasket 135 may be an O-ring.

The refilling nozzle is shaped like a body in which a hole is made that can be traversed by the sanitising liquid and the sealing gasket 135 is housed in a special seat coaxial to the hole and made in said body, in particular made near a free end of this body, i.e. the end that contacts the dispensing nozzle 30. The sealing gasket 135 may be positioned in various ways based on the conformation of the dispensing device, of the dispensing nozzle 30, and of the refilling nozzle 130. In the embodiment illustrated, the sealing gasket 135 is positioned at the free end, and the seat is shaped so that under resting conditions the sealing gasket protrudes externally with respect to said body. Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated, one end of said hole is realised by the sealing gasket itself, which is substantially an extension of said hole. In the embodiment illustrated, in other words it can be said that the sealing gasket, during the refilling of the dispensing device with sanitising liquid, is directly interposed between the refilling nozzle and the dispensing nozzle 30 and forms a connection channel between the two.

It is not excluded that in an alternative embodiment the body of the refilling nozzle 130 can be tubular in shape and sized so as to partially fit inside the dispensing nozzle 30, i.e. a hole of the dispensing nozzle, and that in such a case the sealing gasket can protrude radially and externally with respect to said tubular body. Similarly, the dispensing nozzle 30 could be tubular in shape and sized so as to fit inside the hole of the refilling nozzle, and in such a case the sealing gasket could protrude radially inwards of the hole of the refilling nozzle 130.

It can be provided that the refilling nozzle can be removable with respect to the box-like body 111, and for example that the refilling apparatus can comprise a set of different refilling nozzles, so as to have multiple nozzles adaptable to different tanks. A variable geometry refilling nozzle or an automatic change mechanism of the refilling nozzles coupled to a magazine of differently shaped refilling nozzles may be further provided. The refilling device also comprises an electro-mechanical pump 140 in fluid communication, for example directly, with the tank 115, i.e. with the cartridge, and configured to send to the refilling nozzle 130, for example by means of a conduit inside the box-like body 111 , the sanitising liquid A contained in the tank 115.

Said electro-mechanical pump 140 is in particular a motor pump, i.e. a system provided with an electric motor and with a pump actuated by said electric motor for pumping the sanitising liquid present in the tank 115. When the tank 115 is a cartridge, in the housing seat of the cartridge, a channel (not illustrated) is positioned which is adapted to put the cartridge in fluid communication with the electro-mechanical pump 140.

The refilling nozzle 130 communicates the electro-mechanical pump 140 with the outside of the box-like body 111 , in particular the refilling nozzle is realised as a through hole in a wall of the box-like body 111 or protrudes externally therefrom.

The refilling apparatus 110,110’, 110”, 110’” comprises an electrical power source (not illustrated) for the supply of the refilling apparatus itself, which electrical power source can for example be an electrical battery or an electrical outlet adapted to allow the connection to an electrical power distribution network (possibly connected to an electrical transformer).

The refilling apparatus may comprise a housing seat 145 of the portable apparatus 1 , in particular of the dispensing device 15 in the event that it is removably connected to the wearable element, for example realised in the box-like body, at which the refilling nozzle 130 is positioned.

The housing seat 145 may be configured to receive to size at least a portion of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device, so that once inserted into the housing seat it remains in place. The housing seat could be made of an elastically deformable material and shaped so as to be slightly smaller than the portion of portable apparatus, i.e. dispensing device 15, insertable into the housing seat, so that by elastically deforming the housing seat generates a pressure on the portion of portable apparatus, i.e. dispensing device 15, inserted into the seat itself.

The housing seat may for example comprise a concave surface, for example provided with an upwardly facing concavity, in which to insert the portable apparatus, i.e. the dispensing device 15, and which is configured to receive to size at least a portion of the dispensing device, see Figure 8.

Alternatively or in addition to said housing seat, the refilling apparatus may comprise a clamping assembly of the portable apparatus, at which the refilling nozzle is positioned and which is movable between a first position, in which it binds the dispensing device to the refilling apparatus, and a second position, in which it allows the dispensing device to be removed from the refilling apparatus. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the housing seat substantially comprises the clamping assembly.

In both cases there is a first fixed wall 150,150’, at which the dispensing nozzle 130 is positioned and a second wall 155,155’, movable with respect to the first between the first position, in which it binds the dispensing device to the refilling apparatus by tightening it between the first wall and the second wall itself, and the second position, in which it allows the dispensing device to be removed from the refilling apparatus without exerting pressure on it. This movement of the second wall with respect to the first one is controlled by an actuator, for example electric (not illustrated).

In the embodiment 110 of the refilling apparatus present in figures 5-8, both the presence of the seat adapted to receive a portion of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device, and the clamping assembly are provided.

The housing seat is in particular formed by a through opening 160 made in the box-like body 111, by the first wall 150 (which is contained in the box-like body) and by the second wall 155, which is contained in the box-like body and is movable towards and away from the first wall.

The movement of the second wall with respect to the first one allows both to vary the size of the housing seat so as to be able to accommodate portable apparatuses, i.e. dispensing device, of different sizes (in this case it remains stationary when the dispensing device is inserted), and to clamp the portable apparatus, i.e. the dispensing device, once the latter has been inserted through the through opening 160.

This clamping assembly is of the vice type, in particular the second wall translates in the direction towards and away with respect to the first wall.

In the embodiment 110’ of the refilling apparatus instead only the clamping assembly is present, which has the first wall 150’ and the second wall 155’, which are external with respect to an internal volume of the box-like body 111. This clamping assembly is of the gripper type, in particular the second wall is hinged with respect to the first wall.

In the embodiments illustrated, the refilling nozzle 130 is positioned in the first wall. However, it is not excluded that the refilling nozzle, instead of being in one between the first wall and the second wall, could be interposed between the two, depending on the conformation of the dispensing device 15.

The passage from the second position to the first position can take place automatically by using a presence sensor (not illustrated) configured to detect the presence of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device 15 between the first wall and the second wall. Once the refilling of the tank of the portable apparatus is finished, the second wall automatically returns, or is operated, to the second position. Such a presence sensor may for example be a photocell or a proximity sensor.

The refilling apparatus 110,110’, 110”, 110’” may comprise a centring assembly of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device 15, configured to allow the dispensing nozzle 30 to be centred with respect to the refilling nozzle 130.

Such a centring assembly may comprise a first (permanent) magnet 165 integral with the refilling apparatus 110,110’, 110”, 110”’ and a second (permanent) magnet 170 integral with the dispensing device and configured to generate a reciprocal magnetic attraction force with the first magnet. The first magnet is preferably positioned in the vicinity of the refilling nozzle 130 and the second magnet is positioned in the vicinity of the dispensing nozzle 30.

In detail, the first magnet is positioned in the seat and/or first wall 150,150’, preferably in the vicinity of the refilling nozzle 130, and the second magnet is positioned inside the casing of the dispensing device, preferably in the vicinity of the dispensing nozzle 30. Said centring assembly may alternatively or additionally comprise the housing seat 145 and the casing of the dispensing device, which may be shaped such that a single reciprocal position of the dispensing device is provided within the housing seat.

The refilling apparatus 110,110’, 110”, 110”’ comprises an electronic control and command unit 175 operatively connected to the electro-mechanical pump 140 (and to the electric power source) and configured to actuate the electro-mechanical pump so that it delivers a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid, identifiable as a refilling quantity, through the refilling nozzle 130.

For example, the electronic control and command unit 175 may comprise a memory unit in which the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid to be dispensed by the electro mechanical pump 140 through the refilling nozzle 130 is stored, i.e. in which the actuation time of the electro-mechanical pump necessary to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid through the refilling nozzle 130 is stored. Alternatively, the refilling apparatus may be provided with a sensor adapted to monitor a value of a parameter indicative of the pressure in the dispensing nozzle, and in this case the electronic control and command unit 175 is configured to actuate the electro mechanical pump 140 so that it delivers the sanitising liquid until the pressure reaches a preset maximum pressure value, indicative of the fact that the tank 20 of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device 15, is full. This indicative parameter could be the current intensity absorbed by the electro mechanical pump detected by the electronic control and command unit itself or the actual pressure measured by a pressure sensor positioned so as to be in direct fluid communication with the refilling nozzle 130.

The electronic control and command unit 175 may further comprise a transceiver 180, for example wireless, adapted to allow a communication of the refilling apparatus with a remote device, for example with the portable apparatus, i.e. with the dispensing device, in particular with the (wireless) transceiver 55 of the dispensing device 15.

In the embodiment illustrated, the electronic control and command unit 175 of the refilling apparatus is configured to (automatically) actuate the electro-mechanical pump 140 to send the liquid to the refilling nozzle only when it detects, for example by means of the transceiver 180, that the identification code of the portable apparatus, for example of the dispensing device, contained in the electronic device of the portable apparatus, in particular of the dispensing device 15, i.e. contained in the transceiver 55 or in the electronic control and command unit 50 of the dispensing device 15, corresponds to a predetermined code, for example contained in the memory unit of the electronic control and command unit 175, or contained in a remote device with which the electronic control and command unit 175 is operatively connected by cable or wireless (for example a remote device in the cloud).

In particular, the electronic control and command unit 50 of the dispensing device 15 is configured to transmit by means of its wireless transceiver 55, the identification code of the dispensing device to the wireless transceiver 180 of the electronic control and command unit 175, for example after receiving an identification request from the electronic control and command unit 175 sent via the wireless transceiver 180 of the refilling apparatus.

It is not excluded that in an alternative embodiment, in which the electronic device containing the identification code of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device, is not wireless, the refilling apparatus may comprise a connector adapted to allow a galvanic connection with the portable apparatus, i.e. with the electronic device, and operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit 175, for example positioned in the housing seat 145 or in the clamping assembly.

For example, such a connector could comprise suitable electrical contacts placed on an external surface of the refilling apparatus, for example of the seat, and on an external surface of the dispensing device.

The electronic control and command unit of the refilling apparatus may also preferably be configured to (automatically) actuate the electro-mechanical pump 140 to send the liquid to the refilling nozzle 130 only when it detects, for example by means of the transceiver device 180, both that the identification code of the refilling apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device 15, corresponds to a respective predetermined code, and that the identification code of the cartridge corresponds to a respective predetermined code, for example such respective predetermined codes being stored in the electronic control and command unit 175 or in a remote device to which the electronic control and command unit 175 is connected.

In particular, in addition to the communication described above between the electronic control and command unit 175 and the dispensing device 15, in the embodiment illustrated, the electronic control and command unit 175 is configured to cyclically send by means of the wireless transceiver 180 an energizing wireless signal configured to energize the RFID tag of the cartridge, and to (automatically) actuate the electro mechanical pump 140 in order to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid only when it detects both a wireless signal emitted by the RFID tag containing the identification code of the cartridge (following the wireless energizing signal), and the wireless signal containing the identification code of the dispensing device emitted by the transceiver 55 of the dispensing device 15.

It is not excluded that in an alternative embodiment, in which the electronic device containing the identification code of the cartridge is not wireless, the refilling apparatus may comprise a connector adapted to allow a galvanic connection with the electronic device and operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit 175, for example positioned in the housing seat 145 of the battery.

As mentioned above, the refilling apparatus may comprise an electrical actuator (not illustrated) configured to move the second wall between the first and second positions and the electronic control and command unit 175 is configured to control said electrical actuator upon reception of a manual command or preferably automatically when the sensor of the clamping assembly described above detects the presence of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device, between the first wall and the second wall. The refilling apparatus may also comprise a presence sensor configured to detect the presence of the portable dispensing apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device, in the housing seat even in the event that the apparatus is not provided with a clamping assembly of the portable apparatus. Such a sensor may be for example in the form of a photocell or a proximity sensor.

The electronic control and command unit 175 can then be configured to (automatically) actuate the electro-mechanical pump 140 to dispense the sanitising liquid contained in the cartridge in order to refill the tank of the portable apparatus, i.e. of the dispensing device, only when it detects all of the following conditions:

- that the identification code of the portable device 1, i.e. of the dispensing device 15, corresponds to a respective predetermined code (detection of the code carried out by the electronic control and command unit 175 by means of the transceiver 180, which is preferably wireless),

- that the identification code of the cartridge corresponds to a respective predetermined code, (detection of the code carried out by the electronic control and command unit 175 by means of the transceiver 180, which is preferably wireless),

- that the portable apparatus, i.e. the dispensing device, is present in its respective housing seat or that the clamping assembly is in the first position (detection carried out by the electronic control and command unit 175 by means of the presence sensor and/or the actuator of the clamping assembly).

The refilling apparatus 110,110’,110”,110’” may also comprise a dispensing nozzle 185 in fluid communication with the tank 115 and the electronic control and command unit in such a case may be configured to actuate the electro-mechanical pump 140 so that it delivers a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid through said dispensing nozzle 185.

This dispensing nozzle 185 is facing downwards, or alternatively horizontally (it cannot be facing upwards).

This dispensing nozzle 185 is distinct from the refilling nozzle 130, for example it is distal from the housing seat and the clamping assembly. The dispensing nozzle 185, unlike the refilling nozzle 130, is not provided with a sealing gasket placed at the free end thereof. The refilling apparatus may comprise a manual activation command, such as a button or preferably a non-contact sensor (such as a photocell), operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit, which is configured to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid through the dispensing nozzle 185 upon reception of a signal from said manual activation command.

The refilling apparatus, i.e. the electro-mechanical pump 140, may comprise an electro valve (not illustrated) fluidically interposed between the refilling nozzle 130 and the dispensing nozzle 185, and commanded by the electronic control and command unit 175 to selectively send the dispensing fluid to the refilling nozzle 130 or to the dispensing nozzle 185.

The refilling apparatus may comprise a generator of an optically visible light beam, such as a laser pointer 190, configured to generate a light beam 195 in a direction in which the dispensing nozzle 185 dispenses the sanitising liquid.

The electronic control and command unit 175 can be configured to perform an automated cleaning cycle in which it activates the dispensing of a predetermined quantity of cleaning sanitising liquid, in particular lower than the quantity of sanitising liquid dispensed for refilling the tank 20 and the quantity of liquid sanitized and dispensed following the manual activation command, through the refilling nozzle, and for example also through the dispensing nozzle 185, automatically after a predetermined time interval since the last dispensing.

In particular, the electronic control and command unit 175 is configured to measure the time elapsed since the last dispensing of liquid through each nozzle and to dispense the predetermined quantity of cleaning sanitising liquid when the elapsed time exceeds a preset maximum time limit interval, for example stored in the memory unit of the electronic control and command unit, or contained in a remote device with which the electronic control and command unit is operably connected via cable or wireless (e.g., a remote device in the cloud).

The refilling apparatus 110,110’, 110”, 11 O’” in addition to refilling with sanitising liquid, can also be configured to charge the electric battery of the dispensing device.

For this purpose, the refilling apparatus may comprise either a wireless recharging device, in the event that the dispensing device comprises a corresponding receiver for wireless recharging, or electrical contacts adapted to form a galvanic connection with respective electrical contacts of the dispensing device.

For example, these electrical contacts are positioned in the housing seat of the dispensing device and/or in the clamping assembly, so as to carry out the electrical recharging of the battery simultaneously with the refilling of the tank 20.

The refilling apparatus may also comprise a scanner 200 operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit 175 and adapted to measure the size of a hand positioned below the dispensing nozzle and wherein the electronic control and command unit 175 is configured to calculate the area of the hand from the data received from said sensor and to dispense a quantity of sanitising liquid proportional to the size of the calculated hand.

In this way, waste of sanitising liquid can be avoided.

The operation of the invention is as follows.

In the embodiment illustrated the wearable element is a bracelet that the wearer can wear on his wrist. When the user needs the sanitising liquid contained in the tank, he has two possibilities: without touching the dispensing device with his free hand, he can move the arm on which the bracelet is fastened according to a predetermined scheme, or he can perform a double touch of the dispensing device. In both cases, after a predetermined time from which the electronic control and command unit 50 has detected the activation input, e.g. indicated by a vibration generated by the vibrating assembly, the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid outflows from the dispensing nozzle 30. The user simply places the free hand below the dispensing nozzle 30 to collect the sanitising liquid dispensed.

When the sanitising liquid inside the tank 20 runs out, information that can be detected by the electronic control and command unit by counting the number of deliveries of the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid since the last time the tank has been fully filled or by means of a special level sensor, the user can be informed by a peculiar vibration scheme generated by the vibrating assembly or by an alert signal sent by the wireless transceiver 55 to a remote device, such as a smartphone.

Regardless of the method for informing the user (no alert message for the user could also be provided), the user can reach a refilling apparatus for refilling the dispensing device.

For example, the user can remove the dispensing device from the wearable element and insert it into the housing seat of the refilling apparatus and/or into the clamping assembly. In both cases, once the dispensing device is stably fixed to the refilling apparatus, said refilling apparatus automatically begins to send sanitising liquid to the tank 20.

While the tank 20 is being refilled, the recharging apparatus also charges the battery of the dispensing device.

Once the tank has been refilled, the user can withdraw the dispensing device 15 and hook it back to the wearable element.

The refilling apparatus illustrated is also provided with the dispensing nozzle for dispensing sanitising liquid on site, directly on the hands of the user.

In this case, the user, after having sent the manual activation signal (for example through a smartphone or a button/sensor directly on the box-like body of the refilling apparatus), can place the hand below the dispensing nozzle, in particular so that the optically visible light beam intercepts the middle of the palm of the hand.

The figures illustrate refilling apparatuses configured to refill the dispensing device of the figures, however with a different shape of the housing seat and/or of the clamping means, and possibly a different positioning of the refilling nozzle it is possible to make available refilling apparatuses capable of refilling different portable apparatuses, such as simple bottles of sanitising liquid, i.e. elastically deformable tanks provided with a dispensing nozzle and a removable closure cap of this nozzle. For example in that case the refilling nozzle could also be arranged vertically, upwards or downwards, instead of substantially horizontally as in the embodiments illustrated. In particular, the refilling nozzle, instead of being in one between the first wall and the second wall, may be interposed between the two.

The invention thus conceived is susceptible to several modifications and variations, all falling within the scope of the inventive concept.

Moreover, all details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements.

In practice, the materials used, as well as the contingent shapes and sizes, can be whatever according to the requirements without for this reason departing from the scope of protection of the following claims.

Claims

1. Portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid (1) comprising:

- a wearable element (10) and

- a dispensing device (15) connected to the wearable element (10) and comprising: o a tank (20) adapted to contain a sanitising liquid (A) and o an electro-mechanical pump (25) in fluid communication with the tank (20) to dispense the sanitising liquid (A), o an electronic control and command unit (50) operatively connected to the electro-mechanical pump (25) and configured to actuate the electro mechanical pump so that it delivers a predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid (A).

2. Portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid (1) according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing device (15) comprises an activation system (55,60) operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit (50) and configured to detect a predetermined activation input, and wherein the electronic control and command unit (50) is configured to actuate the electro-mechanical pump (25) to dispense the predetermined quantity of sanitising liquid (A) when it detects the predetermined activation input through the activation system.

3. Portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid (1) according to claim 1, wherein the activation system (55,60) is configured to detect a predetermined activation input that is without direct contact with the dispensing device.

4. Portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the activation system comprises at least one accelerometer (60) operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit (50) and the predetermined activation input is a predetermined series of consecutive accelerations of the dispensing device (15).

5. Portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the activation system comprises a wireless receiver (55) operatively connected to the electronic control and command unit (50), and the predetermined activation input is a predetermined wireless signal.

6. Sanitising system (100,100’) comprising a portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid (1) according to claim 1 and a refilling apparatus (110,110’, 110”, 110’”) of said portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid, said refilling device (110,110’, 110”, 110”’) comprising:

- a tank (115) adapted to contain the sanitising liquid (A),

- a refilling nozzle (130),

- an electro-mechanical pump (140) in fluid communication with the tank (115) and configured to send the sanitising liquid (A) contained in the tank (115) to the refilling nozzle (130).

7. Sanitising system (100,100’) according to the preceding claim, wherein the dispensing device (15) comprises an electronic device (50,55) that makes available an identification code of the dispensing device itself, wherein the refilling apparatus (110,110’, 110”, 110’”) comprises a transceiver device (180) configured to communicate with the electronic device (50,55) of the dispensing device (15), and an electronic control and command unit (175) operatively connected to the electro-mechanical pump (140) and to the transceiver device (180) of the refilling apparatus, and wherein the electronic control and command unit (175) of the refilling apparatus actuates the electro mechanical pump (140) to send the sanitising liquid (A) to the refilling nozzle (130) only when it detects by means of the transceiver device that the identification code of the dispensing device corresponds to a predetermined code.

8. Sanitising system (100,100’) according to the preceding claim, wherein the tank (115) of the refilling apparatus is shaped like a removable cartridge provided with an electronic device (125) which makes available an identification code of the cartridge itself, and wherein the electronic control and command unit (175) of the refilling apparatus actuates the electro-mechanical pump to send the liquid to the refilling nozzle only when it detects by means of the transceiver device both that the identification code of the dispensing device (15) corresponds to a predetermined code and that the identification code of the cartridge corresponds to a predetermined code.

9. Sanitising system (100,100’) according to claim 6, wherein the refilling apparatus comprises a housing seat (145) for the portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid (1) at which the refilling nozzle (130) is positioned and which is configured to receive to size at least a portion of said portable apparatus, and/or a clamping assembly (150,155,150’, 155’) of the portable apparatus, at which the refilling nozzle (130) is positioned and which is movable between a first position, in which it binds the portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid to the refilling apparatus, and a second position, in which it allows the portable apparatus dispensing sanitising liquid to be removed from the refilling apparatus.

10. Sanitising system (100,100’) according to claims 7 and 9, the electronic control and command unit (175) of the refilling apparatus is configured to automatically actuate the electro-mechanical pump (140) to send the liquid to the refilling nozzle (130) only when it detects both that, by means of the transceiver device, the identification code of the dispensing device (15) corresponds to a predetermined code and when it detects: either by means of a presence sensor the presence of the portable apparatus dispensing the sanitising liquid in the housing seat (145) or that the clamping assembly (150,155,150’, 155’) is in the first position.