AU2014227493A1 - Washroom monitoring and consumable supply management system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a system for managing the supply and/or inventory of a washroom product, the system comprising: one or more washroom product dispensers or receivers comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the stored level of a product therein and (ii) a first wireless communication means, and/or one or more washroom facility installations comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to indentify a malfunction state of the installation and (ii) a second wireless communication means, and/or one or more washroom sensors configured to identify a washroom environmental parameter, the one or more sensors comprising a third wireless communication means, and/or one or more washroom product storage areas comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the presence or absence of a washroom product stored therein and (ii) a fourth wireless communication means, a processor-controlled device in network communication with the first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth wireless communication means, wherein, in use, the wireless communication means transmits sensor-obtained information to the processor-controlled device.

Description

WASHROOM MONITORING AND CONSUMABLE SUPPLY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION 5 The present invention relates to the management of washrooms (including toilets, change rooms, parents' rooms and the like). In particular, the invention provides systems allowing for the efficient management of consumable supply and the control of inventory... BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION 0 Washrooms in public areas and buildings often provide consumable products including toilet tissue, liquid products such as soap and air fresheners, disposable towels, feminine hygiene products. Such products are often contained in and dispensed by a dispenser apparatus such as a soap dispenser or toilet roll holder. Other consumables include cleaning supplies 15 (such as disinfectants) which are also routinely used in the management of washrooms. Of course, it is necessary for the levels of these consumables to be monitored regularly by personnel such as janitors. Where it is likely that a consumable will be exhausted before the next proposed inspection, personnel will replenish or replace the consumable. Consumable 20 wastage may be high since personnel tend to replace or replenish products before the dispensers are empty in order to avoid running out of the products before the next round. When embarking on a round to check on the levels of consumables, personnel attempt to predict the amount of each consumable that must be transported on the round. Typically, a 25 cart is loaded with what is anticipated to be a sufficient supply of liquid soap, toilet paper etc. A trade off is generally made with personnel not wishing to unnecessarily overstock the cart, thereby making it difficult to push. It is not uncommon for personnel to expend all of a given product during a round, thereby requiring return to a store room to restock. This activity clearly reduces the efficiency of personnel. 30 Personnel are also typically required to assess the level of supply of washroom products held in storage, and ensure that sufficient product is ordered to prevent exhaustion of supply. It is generally desired for inventory to be kept as low as possible, but without a significant danger of running out of a certain product. 35 The consumption of washroom consumables is a dynamic and unpredictable process. The ongoing monitoring of washrooms and storage areas is time intensive and diverts personnel -1from core activities of cleaning and managing washrooms. Personnel cannot obtain timely and accurate information on consumable consumption, so typically carry an excess of 10 supplies on their rounds. The lack of information on consumable use in washrooms also leads to problems in maintaining reasonable levels of consumable inventory. Supply managers are not able to obtain accurate data on consumption, and so tend to maintain excess inventory this have a 15 negative impact on organizational finances. It is a further problem that failures in dispensing equipment, and other equipment such as toilets, basins, taps, hand dryers and the like may not be detected immediately by washroom users. Detection may not occur until the next visit by personnel, which in some cases may )0 be many hours. Significant inconvenience to wash room users and property damage may result from any delays. While some washroom dispensers of the prior art are provided with means for electronically monitoring the level of product remaining, such dispensers must be supplied with mains )5 electricity which complicates installation. Alternatively, batteries may be used to power these dispensers, however batteries must be monitored and changed periodically, thereby counterproductively adding yet another consumable that must be monitored and changed. It is an aspect of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate a problem of the prior art iO to provide better manage of washrooms so as to ensure sufficient consumable product is available to washroom users, reduce unnecessary waste, increase safety, improve the productivity of personnel, monitor washroom inventory, and facilitate product reorders. The discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included in this 65 specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters formed part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed before the priority date of each provisional claim of this application. 70 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In a first aspect the present invention provides a system for monitoring a washroom, the system comprising: -2- '5 one or more washroom product dispensers or receivers comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the stored level of a product therein and (ii) a first wireless communication means, and/or one or more washroom facility installations comprising (i) an electric or electronic M0 sensor configured to indentify a malfunction state of the installation and (ii) a second wireless communication means, and/or one or more washroom sensors confiugred to identify a washroom environmental parameter, the one or more sensors comprising a third wireless 15 communication means, and/or one or more washroom product storage areas comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the presence or absence of a washroom product stored therein and (ii) a fourth wireless communication means, )0 a processor-controlled device in network communication with the first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth wireless communication means, wherein, in use, the wireless communication means transmits sensor-obtained information )5 to the processor-controlled device. In one embodiment the product dispenser is a toilet roll dispenser, a soap dispenser, a fragrance dispenser, a drinking water dispenser, a feminine hygiene product dispenser, a condom dispenser, a tooth brush dispenser, a comb dispenser, or the product receiver is a 00 waste receptacle. In one embodiment the washroom facility installation is a toilet, a basin, a bidet, a tap, a hand dryer, a light, an exhaust fan, a heater, a cooler, an advertising or information video display unit or audio unit. 05 In one embodiment the sensor is capable of sensing, humidity, light, temperature, an odour, the presence or movement of a person, In one embodiment the first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth communication means 10 is/are a radio device. -3- In one embodiment the radio device is selected form the group consisting of a WiFi device, a ZIGBEE device, a BLUETOOTH device, a sub-GHz ISM band device, and a 2.4GHz ISM band device. 15 In one embodiment the radio device operates on a mesh networking protocol. In one embodiment the processor controlled device is a fixed computer, or a mobile device. 20 In one embodiment (i) the one or more washroom product dispensers or receivers and/or (ii) the one or more washroom facility installations and/or (iii) the one or more washroom sensors are powered by the conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy, optionally by a rechargeable battery, a thin-film battery, a photovoltaic solar panel, a microgenerator, a vibration-power generating battery, or a 25 triboelectric generator. In one embodiment the mechanical action is an action involved in dispensing a product from a washroom dispenser. 30 In one embodiment the mechanical action is selected from the group consisting of opening a door, lifting a toilet seat, lowering a toilet seat, actuating the flush mechanism of a toilet, the flow of water, removal of toilet paper from a dispenser, removal of liquid soap from a dispenser, removal of a towel from a dispenser, removal of a feminine hygiene product from a dispenser, actuating the lid of waste receptacle, opening a tap, closing a tap, and the flow 35 of air. In one embodiment the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy comprises the use of a generator. 40 In one embodiment the electrical energy is stored in a rechargeable battery. In another aspect the present invention provides a washroom product dispenser or receiver comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configuredto identify the stored level of a product therein and (ii) a wireless communication means, and optionally means for 45 conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy. -4- In another aspect the present invention provides a washroom facility installation comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configuredto identify a malfunction state and (ii) a wireless )0 communication means, and optionally means for conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy. In another aspect the present invention provides a washroom product storage area, the area comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configuredto identify the presence or absence )5 of a washroom product stored therein and (ii) a wireless communication means. In another aspect the present invention provides a washroom sensor configuredto identify a washroom environmental parameter comprising a wireless communication means, and optionally means for conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the iO washroom into electrical energy. In another aspect the present invention provides a method for managing a washroom, the method comprising use of a system as described herein. i5 In another aspect the present invention provides a method for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the method comprising use of a washroom product dispenser or receiver as described herein and/or a washroom facility installation as described herein and/or a washroom sensor as described herein. 'O In another aspect the present invention provides a method for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the method comprising use of a washroom product dispenser or as described herein and/or a washroom facility installation as described herein and/or a washroom sensoras described herein , and/or a washroom product storage areaas described herein. 75 In another aspect the present invention provides a washroom comprising a washroom product dispenser or receiver as described herein and/or a washroom facility installation as described herein and/or a washroom sensor as described herein. 80 In another aspect the present invention provides a washroom liquid dispenser, the dispenser comprising a primary reservoir and a secondary reservoir, the primary and secondary reservoirs in fluid connection, the primary reservoir being changeable independently from the secondary reservoir, optionally the primary reservoir is a disposable reservoir. -5- In a further aspect, the present invention provides an electronic database comprising data or 15 information for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the data or information provided by the system as described herein, or the washroom product dispenser as described herein, or the washroom sensor as described herein, the washroom product of as described herein, or the method as described herein, or the washroom as described herein. )0 In a further aspect, the present invention provides a system as described herein, or the washroom product dispenser as described herein, or the washroom sensor as described herein, the washroom product as described herein, or the method of claim as described herein, or the washroom as described herein, comprising a storage medium, wherein the )5 storage medium comprises data or information for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, and wherein the storage medium is selected from the group consisting of a fixed computer, a remote computer, a mobile device, a TF card, a usb card, a sd card, a portable hard disk, a cloud server. )0 In a further aspect the present invention provides a method for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the method comprising the step of electronically processing data or information for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the data or information provided by the system as described herein, or the washroom product dispenser as described herein, the washroom product as described )5 herein, or the method as described herein, or the washroom as described herein. In a further aspect the present invention provides use of data or information provided by the system as described herein, or the washroom product dispenser as described herein, or the washroom sensor as described herein, the washroom product as described herein, or the 10 method as described herein, or the washroom as described herein in managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a system of the present invention. 15 Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of soap dispenser of the present invention. -6- Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of a wireless sensor network for washroom consumables items wireless data acquisition and supply chain guide system of the present invention. Fs Fig. 4 is a front view of a washroom tissue dispenser of the present invention. Fig. 5 is a front view of a washroom towel dispenser of the present invention. )5 Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of the physical relationship between the wireless sensor inside the diffuse reflex light device of the present invention. Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram of the physical relationship schematic between the various components in the wireless gateway of the present invention. Fig. 8 is a front view of a washroom hand soap dispenser of the present invention. Fig. 9 is a physics relationship diagram between the various components in the resistance type wireless water level sensor of the present invention. 35 Fig. 10 is a resistance type water level sensing component structure of the present invention Fig. 11 is a configuration diagram washroom consumable items warehouse shelves of the present invention. 10 Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram of the physical relationship between the various components in the warehouse shelves configured with a wireless multi-point diffuse light sensor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 45 After considering this description it will be apparent to one skilled in the art how the invention is implemented in various alternative embodiments and alternative applications. However, although various embodiments of the present invention will be described herein, it is understood that these embodiments are presented by way of example only, and not limitation. As such, this description of various alternative embodiments should not be 50 construed to limit the scope or breadth of the present invention. Furthermore, statements of advantages or other aspects apply to specific exemplary embodiments, and not necessarily to all embodiments covered by the claims. -7- Throughout the description and the claims of this specification the word "comprise" and )5 variations of the word, such as "comprising" and "comprises" is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment iO is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. In a first aspect the present invention provides a system for monitoring a washroom, the i5 system comprising: one or more washroom product dispensers or receivers comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the stored level of a product therein and (ii) a first wireless communication means, and/or 'O one or more washroom facility installations comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to indentify a malfunction state of the installation and (ii) a second wireless communication means, and/or '5 one or more washroom sensors configured to identify a washroom environmental parameter, the one or more sensors comprising a third wireless communication means, and/or one or more washroom product storage areas comprising (i) an electric or electronic 80 sensor configured to identify the presence or absence of a washroom product stored therein and (ii) a fourth wireless communication means, a remote processor-controlled device in network communication with the first and/or 85 second and/or third and/or fourth wireless communication means, wherein, in use, the wireless communication means transmits sensor-obtained information to the processor-controlled device. -8- )0 Applicant proposes that washroom management is improved where washroom items,or indeed the washroom itself, or a storage area for washroom items requiring the attention of personnel are provided with sensors and wireless communication means. The sensors transmit the sensed information to the wireless communication means, which in turn wirelessly transmit the information to a remote computer. )5 The present invention in some embodiments provides a system for collecting information or data of washroom consumable items, and after processing of the data and information provides reliable information to allow decisions to be made for improving the management or effectiveness of the work required to properly and efficiently maintain washrooms in an )0 acceptable state. The system may improve washroom customer satisfaction, reduce the intensity of the work of personnel, reducing human resource expenses, decreasing inventory to a more efficient level, improving personnel and management working efficiency. The system may also be configured to track washroom hygiene products and cleaning supplies consumption, monitor inventory, control of procurement and optimize warehouse )5 management. In the present invention set forth herein the washroom consumables items wireless data acquisition and inventory supply chain guide system may be configured to detect the washroom shortage of disposable or consumable supplies or held in a storage area, and the 1o data processed by the system to provide a report to the management or personnel. From this report, personnel or management will be apprised of the location of the washroom which appears low on supplies, consumption rate, the current inventory and other information. According to this report management or personnel will be able to decide which washroom needs replenishment, how much to add, which washroom to be included in any patrol route, 15 whether there is a shortage of hygiene products or cleaning supplies in a storage location, the need for re-ordering (with automatic reordering being an option in the system), how long until the next purchase need be made and for which product, and so on. The information on the remote computer may be presented on a video display unit allowing 20 personnel to view the status of the washroom or an item within the washroom. Typically, the video display unit is in a location in or about a base room or a store room for janitors or maintenance personnel. Thus, before embarking on a round, janitors may check the status of a reservoir of a soap dispensers, a paper towel dispenser, a toilet roll holder and the like and accurately assess the amounts of replacement product that are required to complete 25 their round without the need to return to base. -9- In some embodiments the video display unit is mobile, and may be a screen of a smart phone, tablet or other portable device. 30 Digital mobile devices such as smart phones, tablets, PDAs, notebooks, desktops, network terminals may establish a connection by logging cloud platform network, and browse through the treated cloud database information. Under the conditions of authorization, intelligent digital mobile devices may also directly manipulate some of the data within the database and cloud platform network may control wireless sensor network operation. "Washroom 35 consumables items state wireless data acquisition and inventory supply chain guide system" invention refers to wireless sensors and cloud platforms and intelligent digital mobile devices, the relevant washroom consumables business process integration, big data analysis and automatic wireless network through a cloud platform implementation. 10 The skilled artisan is familiar with the many types of electric or electronic sensors useful in the context of the present invention. For example, where the sensor is for detecting the level of a fluid, the sensor may comprise a float connected to a potentiometer. As the tank containing the fluid empties, the float drops and slides a moving contact along the potentiometer, increasing its resistance. Optionally, when the resistance is at a 15 predetermined point (indicating minimum fluid remaining), an appropriate signal may be generated indicating the need for refilling. In more simple embodiments, the sensor of a dispenser reservoir may be a simple conductance switch. Two electrical contacts may be disposed toward a lower level of a fluid )0 reservoir, with an electrical circuit completed where liquid soap (for example) covers both contacts. This type of sensor is very cost-effective, however may only be useful to signify that a reservoir is almost empty. A series of contacts may be used to provide more detailed level information. 55 A simple mechanical switch may be used as a sensor in some applications. For example, dispensers of toilet paper typically hold multiple rolls of paper. As a roll is exhausted, a fresh roll may drop down into a position allowing for a user to access the paper. A mechanical switch may be disposed above the role in current use to detect the presence or absence of another (full) roll of paper. The presence of a full paper roll may depress the switch thereby 60 closing the circuit, however where no full roll is present the switch is not depressed and the circuit is open. Similar arrangements may be operable for other products such as feminine hygiene products, miniature soap bars, disposable toothbrushes and the like. -10- A solid state alternative to a mechanical switch is an optical sensor. Such sensors may i5 provide for greater reliability given the absence of moving parts. Considering again the example of a toilet roll holder, the presence of a spare full roll may block light to the sensor. Accordingly, where no further spare rolls are present in the holder light is allowed to enter the optical sensor. Such embodiments may be configured to operate only when the washroom lights are on. This may be achieved by mounting a second optical sensor on the 'O holder capable of detecting ambient light levels. In some embodiments the sensor is configured to indicate an amount of product remaining in the dispenser. For example, for a toilet paper roll dispenser the sensor may be a light sensor disposed on the internal surface of the dispenser casing, the sensor directed toward '5 the centre of the toilet roll. Where the roll is full and the toilet tissue is relatively close to the sensor, significant ambient light is reflected into the sensor. However, when the roll is almost empty the toilet tissue is relatively distant to the sensor as less light is therefore detected. The sensor may detect intermediate levels of light such that an estimation of the amount of toilet tissue remaining is achievable. An estimation may also be made of how M0 long the toilet roll is expected to last based on historical usage information. A toilet roll dispenser may also be configured to estimate the number of full rolls contained therein. For example, a number of light sensors may be directed toward the positions of toilet rolls within the dispenser. Where a roll is present ambient light is reflected to the 15 sensor, while the absence of a roll results in a significantly lower level of reflected light indicating the absence of a roll. Thus, where a dispenser may hold 6 rolls, a series of 6 light sensors may show one partially used roll (with 75% remaining) and 3 full rolls. Sensors operable for identifying a malfunction state in a washroom facility installation may 90 detect the presence, absence or flow of water. A common problem in washrooms is toilet cistern malfunction whereby the valve responsible for shutting off the flow of water to the bowl after flushing is faulty. A sensor may detect the presence of water in the conduit between the cistern and bowl (for example a simple conductance switch as discussed supra). The presence of water for an extended period of time (as detected by a timing 95 circuit) indicates that the valve has failed to shut off. A similar arrangement may be used to identify washrooms where a tap has been left running. A conductance switch may be disposed in an upper part of drain with extended high conductance readings indicating the constant flow of water through the drain. 00 -11- Another washroom maintenance problem is the overflow of toilets and hand basins, often due to drain blockage. Again, a simple conductance switch may be disposed at or about the base of a toilet, or on the floor immediately under a basin to detect the presence of water. )5 The present systems may incorporate sensors capable of detecting a malfunction state of electrical installations. As an example, heated air hand dryers are often subject to failure, leading to the dissatisfaction of users. A simple temperature sensor (such as a thermistor) may be disposed in or about the normal flow of air from a hand dryer. A basic logic circuit detecting a lack of temperature increase when the dryer has been actuated will identify the 10 malfunction. A sensor of the present system may detect a washroom environmental parameter. The parameter may be, humidity, electromagnetic energy (such as visible light, infra red radiation, laser light), temperature, pressure, an odour, the presence or movement of a 15 person. For example a humidity sensor is capable of detecting the malfunction of multiple items such as an exhaust fan, an air conditioner, or even a hot water tap left running. An odour detector may identify faulty air handling or a malfunctioning toilet. A light detector may indicate where light globes are to be replaced. 20 The present systems are operable via wireless communication means, allowing for the transmission of data/information obtained by any sensors to a processor-controlled device. Many buildings have an "in house" WiFi network, often covering all building areas including washrooms. Such networks may be conveniently exploited in the context of the present methods, providing means for transmitting information from the sensor(s) to the processor 25 controlled device. The skilled person is familiar with hardware modules operable within the present systems. For example, Texas Instruments (Dallas, TX) manufactures self-contained wireless network modules facilitating the implementation of Internet connectivity. A potentially operable product is the SimpleLink TM CC3000 IEEE 802.11 b/g module. This 30 product has an integrated IPv4 TCP/IP stack with BSD socket APIs enabling simple internet connectivity with any microcontroller, microprocessor, or ASIC. Built-in network protocols include: ARP, ICMP, DHCP client, and DNS client enable connection to the local network and to the Internet. This module may be powered by a preregulated power supply or may be connected directly to a battery. 35 Relevant to power considerations (as further discussed infra) the CC3000 has an ultra-low leakage shut-down mode with current <5 pA. -12- The wireless sensor checks the amount of consumable items inside the dispenser, and then 10 integrates the measurement data and wireless sensor identification code, control chip MAC code, wireless sensor parameters, and the current operating status data into data packets according to a wireless communication protocol, and sends the data to a wireless gateway. These packets may be termed "wireless sensor data packets". 15 Wireless sensor receives data packets from the wireless gateway, the packet being on the same as described above wireless communication protocol, the data packet, which may be termed a "wireless gateway packet". A wireless sensor may have its own working parameters and operation mode based on the )0 content of specific wireless gateway packet. Wireless sensors and wireless communication between gateways may follow the IEEE802.15.4 standard, the carrier frequency being 315MHz, 433MHz, 868MHz, 915MHz, 2.4GHz ISM band, may be FSK, zigbee, Xbee and other technologies, may also following IEEE802.11 standard communication using WiFi technology. Wireless sensor and a wireless connection between the wireless gateway may )5 also be through a wireless repeater or wireless bridge connection, to further expand the coverage of the radio signal, the extended-range wireless communication. The wireless repeater and a wireless bridge and wireless sensors typically use the same technical standards of wireless communication protocol as wireless gateway does. iO Wireless sensors may be installed in the washroom, or on warehouse shelves. The wireless gateway may be installed in a wireless sensor mounted washroom or warehouse may also be installed in other appropriate places the wireless signal may cover. A wireless gateway may communicate with a plurality of wireless sensors by data packet. 65 The wireless Gateway specific installation position may depend on the condition and the environment in which the system is operable. A wireless sensor for receiving data wireless gateway sent over the packet, and the data packet includes the wireless gateway's identification code, the location data, operating parameters, and other data in accordance with the same wireless communication protocol into data packets, which is a wireless 70 gateway packet, and then through a wired or wireless way to send packets to the network on a cloud platform. In some embodiments of the present invention, a wireless gateway via wireless WiFi in accordance with IEEE802.11g standard network connection to the cloud platform is -13- '5 implemented. Another cloud platform may joins the network in accordance with the IEEE802.3 standard ETHERNET connection. Connection between the wireless network gateway and cloud platform may also be via a repeater or bridge, to further expand the scope of the communication. This technology is well known to the skilled person. M0 The wireless gateway from the network cloud platform receives data packets for re-set their own working parameters, and put their packets to the wireless sensors, wireless sensors using these packets to re-set their own operating parameters and ways of operating. A wireless sensor circuit board may a provide a complete implementation of the invention 15 herein described in the first case, wireless reflex light sensor, this sensor is of the diffuse reflex type optical sensor component (U.S. Vishay Semiconductors Company TCRT5000), 2.4GHz wireless transceiver controller (Norway NOrdic Semiconductor's nRF24LO1) and circuit, microcontroller (Atmel's Attiny44) integrated into a circuit board. )0 The diffuse reflex type optical sensor component detects washroom paper or paper towel dispenser, feminine hygiene products, baby diapers and other disposable consumables usage. The microcontroller used to control reflex optical sensing component and its photoelectric signals converted into electronic data, the processed data is less than the lower limit value, illustrated consumable items out of stock, otherwise it is not out of stock. )5 Microcontroller assembles device status information in accordance with this wireless communication protocol defined into packets, and then controls the radio controller to send packets to the wireless gateway. Interpretation of the microcontroller to the radio transceiver controller receives the 00 transmission from a wireless gateway over the packet data based on the program information in the packet is determined to be executed. Wireless reflex light sensor battery powered, in order to save battery power when no data is received from a wireless gateway wireless reflex light sensors work in static power-down mode, when the wireless gateway receives wireless radio signals reflex light sensor enters the waking state, the microcontroller 05 decodes the received data packet, if the judgment is sent to wireless gateway packet, then according to the packet information to determine the status or enter the measurement, once the measurement is completed wireless reflex optical sensor assembles data packet,and then sends it back to the wireless gateway; or reset their operating parameters. If the judgment is not issued its own data packet, then the wireless reflex light sensor goes into 10 power-down mode again in order to saving battery power supply. -14- In the implementation of the invention herein described Case 1l, another wireless sensors is the resistance-type water level sensing component, a microcontroller (America Atmel Attiny44), 2.4GHz wireless transceiver controller (Norway NOrdic Semiconductor's 15 nRF24LO1) and circuitry integrated into a circuit board. Resistance-type level sensor components may be made by hand, the method requires two electrodes were placed with a certain interval between them on a long strip of copper circuit board, there are some spacing between electrodes and the bottom of the board in order to isolate. Putting the circuit board into the liquid vertically, when the liquid to be detected is on contact with two 20 electrodes, there is a resistance may be detected between the two copper electrodes; when the two electrodes goes from liquid, the resistance value between the two electrodes is very high. This change of the liquid resistance indicates the amount of liquid to be consumed. This wireless water level sensor for liquids such as liquid soap, air fresheners and other 25 liquid consumables dispenser detects the amount of liquid stored inside. Its mode of the content same as described above, the microcontroller controls the water level sensing component and a resistance-type electric signal which is processed, the processed data is less than the lower limit value, shortage is identified, otherwise consumable items is not out of stock. 30 Microcontrollers assembled this status information in accordance with the defined wireless communication protocols into packets, and then control the radio controller to send packets to the wireless gateway. Wireless sensors rely on battery power, in order to save battery power wireless water level sensors work in static power-down without receiving data from a 35 wireless gateway, when the received radio signals wireless water level sensor goes into the waking state, microcontroller starts decode the received data packet, according to the packet information to determine the status or enter the measurement, the measurement is completed under the control of microcontroller, the data packet is sent back to a wireless gateway; or reset their operating parameters. If the data packet is not issued its own, then 40 the wireless water level sensor goes into power-down mode again in order to saving battery power supply. Both the wireless sensors are described in the present invention, the sensing component used, the microcontroller and a radio transceiver controller as described herein is not limited 45 to the specific type mentioned and manufacturer, the sensing component may be other types, the microcontroller may be 8 bits, and 16 bits, and even 32 bits. Wireless transceiver controller may be other manufacturer's products, other types of other models. -15- In one embodiment of the present invention, the wireless controller and the gateway is a )0 circuit board which integrated wireless transceiver controller, WiFi controller, microcontroller chip. In the wireless transceiver a wireless controller controls the wireless transceiver communication in accordance with the same wireless communication standard and a wireless communication protocol. Wireless control devices employed in the present invention is not limited to a description of other manufacturers may be the other class, other types of )5 devices. Wireless gateway may also be a combination of a wireless transceiver controller and USB controller, the combination of the microcontroller, wireless transceiver controller and serial communication controller, microcontroller, wireless transceiver controller and ETHERNET controllers, microcontrollers . iO The capacity of the wireless sensor network is large constructed by a number of wireless sensor nodes, and is characterized by short distance communication, multiple network nodes, small data, low power consumption, low cost, ability to control and high reliability of signal transmission, real-time strong. The popular short-range wireless communications technology are mainly: Bluetooth, ZigBee, WiFi. They belong to the IEEE802.15.1, i5 IEEE802.15.4, IEEE802.1 1 a / b / g standards. But for between wireless sensors, suitable for wireless sensors and wireless gateway for data transmission between monitoring networks, the three criteria described above is too complex to consume a large amount of computer and communications resources, but also increases the cost of equipment and labor costs, is not suitable for the transmission of data, low power consumption and low cost requirements. 'O Hence the need for the formulation of the present invention is suitable for the implementation of the program to simplify wireless communication standard, which is the wireless data transfer protocol. From the transmitter to the receiver of the wireless data communication may be subject to outside interference leaving a data error occurs, the wireless data communication protocol, which is a simplified wireless communication standards mentioned 75 above may be used to ensure that the receiver correctly received from the transmitter to data and determines whether the received data is the real. The purpose of a simple wireless data transmission protocol is to minimize the power consumption and cost, the simplest way to ensure the validity of the wireless data transmission reliability. And sub-GHz ISM 2.4GHz band short distance wireless communication technologies are suitable for the application 80 described in the examples of the present invention. In some embodiments, an in house WiFi network is not available or not accessible to all washrooms in a building. In these circumstances a mesh network may be operable. As is understood by the skilled person mesh networking is a type of networking where each node 85 must not only capture and disseminate its own data, but also serve as a relay for other -16nodes, that is, it must collaborate to propagate the data in the network. In the context of the present invention, each wireless communication means device disseminates data/information, and also acts as a node itself to relay data/information of remote sensors, the network being configured to carry data/information to the processor-controlled device. )0 A mesh network may be designed using a flooding technique or a routing technique. When using a routing technique, the message propagates along a path, by traversing from node to node until the destination is reached. To ensure availability of all paths, a routing network allows for continuous connections and reconfiguration around broken or blocked paths, )5 using self-healing algorithms. A mesh network whose nodes are all connected to each other is a fully connected network. Mesh networks may be considered as one type of ad hoc network. The self-healing capability enables a routing based network to operate when one node )0 breaks down or a connection malfunctions. As a result, the network is typically reliable, as there is often more than one path between a source and a destination in the network. The skilled person is familiar with a range of protocols including for routing packets across mesh networks, including, examples including AODV (Ad hoc On-Demand Distance Vector), )5 B.A.T.M.A.N. (Better Approach To Mobile Adhoc Networking), Babel (protocol) (a distance vector routing protocol for IPv6 and IPv4 with fast convergence properties), DNVR (Dynamic NIx-Vector Routing), DSDV (Destination-Sequenced Distance-Vector Routing), DSR (Dynamic Source Routing), HSLS (Hazy-Sighted Link State), HWMP (Hybrid Wireless Mesh Protocol), IWMP (Infrastructure Wireless Mesh Protocol) for Infrastructure Mesh Networks by 10 GRECO UFPB-Brazil, MRP (Wireless mesh networks routing protocol) by Jangeun Jun and Mihail L. Sichitiu, OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing protocol), OORP (OrderOne Routing Protocol) (OrderOne Networks Routing Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First Routing), PWRP (Predictive Wireless Routing Protocol), TORA (Temporally-Ordered Routing Algorithm), and IEEE

TM

8O2.15.4 (ZigBee) IEEE 802.15.4. Such protocols may be used as a 15 basis for a protocol workable within the context of the present systems, with the skilled person being enabled to do so. Typically each sensor has a dedicated wireless communication means. However, in some embodiments two or more sensors are in operable connection with a single wireless 20 connection. Accordingly, the first and second, second and third, first and third, or first second and third wireless communication means are the same wireless communication means. -17- In accordance with the present systems, the product dispenser may be a toilet roll dispenser, 25 a soap dispenser, a fragrance dispenser, a drinking water dispenser, a feminine hygiene product dispenser, a condom dispenser, a tooth brush dispenser, or a comb dispenser. The function and construction of such dispensers is well known to the skilled person. The receiver may be any receptacle which may accept a washroom product, the receptacle 30 being in need of periodic emptying. The receiver may be waste receptacle configured to receive used paper hand towels, feminine hygiene products, diapers and the like. As an example, a paper waste basket may be fitted with a light source and a light sensor toward the top opening. Where the basket is less than full, the light source may be detected by the sensor. However when the basket is full, paper at the top of the basket blocks light travelling 35 from the light source to the sensor thereby indicating that emptying necessary. It is within the ability of the skilled person therefore to modify these very well known contrivances to incorporate the various further components required for operation of the present systems. Once provided with the benefit of the present specification, the housings 10 and various internal components of these contrivances may be altered in size, shape or position to accommodate various parts such as sensors, batteries, microcontrollers, WiFi modules and the like. Exemplary embodiments are provided infra. Where to product dispenser dispenses a liquid product (such as liquid soap) the dispenser 15 may comprise a primary reservoir and a secondary reservoir. In this embodiment the use of two reservoirs reduces wastage of the soap product. It is often the case that when routinely checking a soap dispenser, a janitor will change a soap reservoir before completely empty. This is to ensure that the dispenser does not run out of soap before the next maintenance visit. This leads to wastage of soap because of the 50 soap which is discarded with the disposable reservoir. By the use of a secondary reservoir (which is typically of a permanent nature but may also be disposable), it is possible to allow the soap to be completely exhausted in the primary reservoir (and even to be partially exhausted in the secondary reservoir), before changing 55 the primary reservoir. Accordingly, there is no wastage of soap. Such an embodiment is not necessary reliant on the various power generating means and network connections disclosed elsewhere herein. Accordingly, in one aspect the present -18invention provides a washroom liquid dispenser, the dispenser comprising a primary reservoir and a secondary reservoir, the primary and secondary reservoirs in fluid iO connection, the primary reservoir being changeable independently from the secondary reservoir. Preferably, the primary reservoir is a disposable reservoir. The washroom facility installations for which the present systems may be applicable for monitoring includes toilets, basins, bidets, taps (faucets), hand dryers, lighting, exhaust fans, i5 heaters, coolers, advertising or information video display units, audio units and the like. Other installations will be apparent to the skilled person, and for the sake of brevity and clarity all are not explicitly listed herein. All relevant installations are nevertheless included in the ambit of the present invention. 'O The sensors of the present system may be capable of sensing water, humidity, light, temperature, an odour, the presence or movement of a person. In one embodiment of the system, the first and/or second and/or third communication means is/are a radio device. Advantageously, the radio device may be a WiFi device. Such '5 embodiments may be capable of taking advantage of existing building infrastructure, which likely conforms to a WiFi protocol. In one embodiment of the system, the radio device operates on a mesh networking protocol. M0 In one embodiment, the processor-controlled device is a fixed computer, or a mobile device. The processor-controlled device is configured (in terms of both hardware and software) to receive information/data obtained by the one more sensors of the system. As will be understood the device may have means for receiving radio signals (and in particular WiFi or mesh network signals), and processing same, optionally with a display capability. 85 Alternatively, the processor-controlled device may be configured to interface with a device capable of receiving radio signals, such as a wireless network card. In one embodiment, the processor controlled device is substantially fixed and suitable for installation in a store room, maintenance room, manager's office and the like. In such cases, 90 the process controlled device is typically a person computer having software capable of reading, interpreting and presenting sensor data/information. -19- The processor controlled device may contain software to further assist in the management of washrooms. For example, the software may be configured to provide a list of products (and )5 the amount or number of each product) that is required to service a number of washroom, the list being generated by reference to sensor data/information. A janitor is enabled to load his/her service trolley with the required products (and in the required volumes) in order to adequately service the washrooms. The software may add small contingencies to take account for any depletion of product during the service run. In this manner, the janitor is )0 unlikely to have a need to return to base to collect further product to complete the service run. More sophisticated embodiments of the processor-controlled device software are configured to interface with inventory management systems. For example, where higher than usual )5 usage of toilet tissue is noted (by reference to the numbers of toilet rolls included in lists of products generated for janitors) an earlier than usual order may be placed with the relevant supplier. Some embodiments of the processor-controlled device may be configure to feed information 1o back to a production facility. For example, the production of toilet rolls may be increased or decreased depending on usage patterns. The processor controlled device may further interface with a personnel notification system to alert personnel to a task which should be dealt with immediately. Typically, notifications 15 regarding overflowing toilets, lack of toilet rolls, faults in lighting and the like require fast rectification. The personnel notification system may be way of mobile telephone network, pager system or public address system. It will be appreciated that the present systems require electrical energy in order to operate. 20 The electrical energy may be provided by a main power source, however the installation of the present systems is complicated by the need to separately connect each sensor/wireless communication means to a power source. One embodiment of the present invention therefore provides that the sensors/wireless communication means are powered by battery. The use of low power consumption wireless modules and sensors which draw little or no 25 current (as described supra) are preferred in embodiments rely on battery power to at least some extent. The use of batteries presents the further problem of changing batteries (which may add to the workload of janitors) and also the associated expense. -20- 30 Applicant proposes that the present systems may be operable using electrical power generated within the washroom per se, and by mechanical actions that would normally be carried out within the washroom. These embodiments provide substantial advantage over embodiments reliant on external power sources (such as batteries and mains power), 35 negating the need for electrical installation or changing of batteries. This results in cost savings on installation and also ongoing maintenance costs. In these embodiments the system may be partially or substantially completely self powered. Accordingly, in one embodiment the one or more washroom product dispensers or receivers 10 and/or (ii) the one or more washroom facility installations and/or (iii) the one or more washroom sensors are powered by the conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy. In one embodiment the mechanical action is an action involved in dispensing a product from 15 a washroom dispenser. In some embodiments the mechanical action is selected from the group consisting of opening a door, lifting a toilet seat, lowering a toilet seat, actuating the flush mechanism of a toilet, the flow of water, removal of toilet paper from a dispenser, removal of liquid soap from a dispenser, removal of a towel from a dispenser, removal of a feminine hygiene product from a dispenser, actuating the lid of waste receptacle, opening a )0 tap, closing a tap, and the flow of air. Other mechanical actions will be apparent to the skilled person, with all such being included in the ambit of the present invention. The system may comprise a device for conversion of mechanical energy to electrical energy. Suitable devices include rotary conversion devices such a dynamo and dynamo-like device. 55 Such devices are often found in a miniaturised form in consumer products such as wind-up flashlights, radios and mobile phone chargers. Generators which may be operable in the context of the present systems are manufactured by Ningbo Haishu Jiangnan Moor Factory (Ningbo, China). 60 Where a generator for deriving electrical power from the flow of water is required, model CMC-20 generator may be used: Hydraulic Pressure: 0.12-0.4mp (1.2-4kg), Voltage: AC3.6V, Current: 36mA-100mA, Diameter: 20mm, Length: 16.5mm, Shaft diameter: 1.5mm, Shaft length: 6mm. Alternatively a YAF-N8 model may be used: Water Pressure : 0.12 0.4mp(1.2-1.4kg), Output Voltage : 3.6-6.OVAC, Output Current : 36mA-100mA, Length: 65 22mm, Width: 19.50mm, Height: 16.50mm, Generator Height: 16.50mm, Shaft -21- Diameter : 1.50mm. Such generators may be useful in harnessing energy from the flow of water caused by flushing a toilet, showering, turning on a tap and the like. Where a generator for deriving electrical power from air flow is required, model CMC-63 may 'O be used: Speed: 3000rpm, Output voltage: 10-18V, Output current: 1.6A, Start torque: 1000g.cm. Such generators may be useful in harnessing energy from an electric hand dryer. Where a generator for deriving electrical power from mechanical movement is required a '5 model CMC-29 may be used: Rotation speed 3000 r/min, Rotation direction CW & CCW, Working temperature -10 0 C~ +60 0 C, Relative humidity 30%~90%, Load voltage 4V (load 4.50), Load current 0.9A (load 4.50), Phase 3, Axial clearance 0. 5~1.0 mm. Such generators may be useful in harnessing energy from the opening and closing of doors within a washroom. In some embodiments, the mechanical movement (for example the lowering of a toilet seat) may first spin a fly wheel (or similar device) which may in turn spin a generator. This provides for a relatively high rotational speed for an extended period. 15 Non-dynamo means for generating electrical energy are anticipated, including the use of a piezo transducer, whose deformation results in an electrical voltage being formed. Depending on the voltage required by the system, a micro voltage regulator may be required. The regulator may be semiconductor-based, such as those provided by Texas 90 Instruments. The skilled person is capable of considering parameters such as type (e.g. buck/boost converter, inverting converter, isolated DC/DC converter, step-down (buck) converter , step-up (boost) converter), number of outputs, Vin (min), Vin (max), Vout (min), Vout (max), lout (max), topology and the like in order to select an appropriate regulator. 95 In order to provide continuous power to the system, a rechargeable battery is generally operably incorporated into the system. Typically, a small rechargeable battery is used in association with each generator. Selection of an appropriate battery is routinely made by reference to the following parameters: capacity, energy density, C rate, losses and efficiency, cycle depth, voltage, and the like. Existing battery technology including RAM, 00 NiCad, NiMH, Li-ion, and the like will be useful in the present methods. -22- In one embodiment, the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy comprises the use of a generator. Typically the electrical energy is stored in a rechargeable battery. )5 In a second aspect the present invention provides a washroom product dispenser or receiver comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the stored level of a product therein and (ii) a wireless communication means, and optionally means for conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy. An exemplary embodiment (in the form of a soap dispenser) is shown at Fig. 2. 0 In a third aspect, the present invention comprises a washroom facility installation comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify a malfunction state and (ii) a wireless communication means, and optionally means for conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy. 15 In a fourth aspect the present invention provides a washroom sensor configured to identify a washroom environmental parameter comprising a wireless communication means, and optionally means for conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy. 20 In a fifth aspect the present invention provides a method for managing a washroom, the method comprising use of a system as described herein. In a sixth aspect the present invention provides a method for managing a washroom, the )5 method comprising use of a washroom product dispenser or receiver as described herein and/or a washroom facility installation as described herein and/or a washroom sensor as described herein. In a seventh aspect the present invention provides a washroom comprising a washroom 30 product dispenser or receiver as described herein and/or a washroom facility installation as described herein and/or a washroom sensor as described herein. With reference to the computer-related aspects of the invention the term "processor" may refer to any device or portion of a device that processes electronic data, e.g., from registers 35 and/or memory to transform that electronic data into other electronic data that, e.g., may be stored in registers and/or memory. A "computer" may include one or more processors. -23- The systems and methodologies described herein are, in one embodiment, performable by one or more processors that accept computer-readable (also called machine-readable) code -0 containing a set of instructions that when executed by one or more of the processors carry out at least one of the methods described herein. Any processor capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken are included. Thus, one example is a typical processing system that includes one or more processors. Each processor may include one or more of a CPU, a graphics processing unit, and a 15 programmable DSP unit. The processing system further may include a memory subsystem including main RAM and/or a static RAM, and/or ROM. A bus subsystem may be included for communicating between the components. The processing system further may be a distributed processing system with processors )0 coupled by a network and could be a virtual processing system or a cloud based processing system. If the processing system requires a display, such a display may be included, e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT) display. If manual data entry is required, )5 the processing system also includes an input device such as one or more of an alphanumeric input unit such as a keyboard, a pointing control device such as a mouse, and so forth. The term memory unit as used herein, if clear from the context and unless explicitly stated iO otherwise, also encompasses a storage system such as a disk drive unit. The processing system in some configurations may include a sound output device, and a network interface device. The memory subsystem thus includes a computer-readable carrier medium that carries computer-readable code (e.g., software) including a set of instructions to cause performing, when executed by one or more processors, one of more of the methods 65 described herein. Note that when the method includes several elements, e.g., several steps, no ordering of such elements is implied, unless specifically stated. The software may reside in the hard disk, hard drive, memory stick, flash memory card or like device, or may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the RAM and/or within the processor during execution thereof by the computer system. Thus, the memory and the, processor also 70 constitute computer-readable carrier medium carrying computer-readable code. Furthermore, a computer-readable carrier medium may form, or be included in a computer program product. -24- '5 Note that while descriptions and diagrams may only refer to a single processor and a single memory that carries the computer-readable code, those in the art will understand that many of the components described above are included, but not explicitly shown or described in order not to obscure the inventive aspect. M0 The present systems may comprise a computer-readable carrier medium carrying a set of instructions, e.g., a computer program that is for execution on one or more processors, e.g., one or more processors. Thus, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, embodiments of the present invention may be embodied as a method, an apparatus such as a special purpose apparatus, an apparatus such as a data processing system, or a 15 computer-readable carrier medium, e.g., a computer program product. The computer readable carrier medium carries computer readable code including a set of instructions that when executed on one or more processors cause the processor or processors to implement a method. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a method, an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment )0 combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of carrier medium (e.g., a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium) carrying computer-readable program code embodied in the medium. The software may further be transmitted or received over a network via a network interface )5 device. While the carrier medium is shown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term "carrier medium" should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term "carrier medium" shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions 00 for execution by one or more of the processors and that cause the one or more processors to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present invention. A carrier medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. 05 Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical, magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, flash drives, and the like. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as main memory. Transmission media includes coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus subsystem. 10 Transmission media also may also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio wave and infrared data communications. For example, the term -25- "carrier medium" shall accordingly be taken to included, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, a computer product embodied in optical and magnetic media; a medium bearing a propagated signal detectable by at least one processor of one or more processors and 15 representing a set of instructions that, when executed, implement a method; and a transmission medium in a network bearing a propagated signal detectable by at least one processor of the one or more processors and representing the set of instructions. It will be understood that the steps of methods discussed are performed in one embodiment 20 by an appropriate processor (or processors) of a processing (i.e., computer) system executing instructions (computer-readable code) stored in storage. It will also be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular implementation or programming technique and that the invention may be implemented using any appropriate techniques for implementing the functionality described herein. The invention is not limited to any particular 25 programming language or operating system. It should be appreciated that in the above description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof, for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and 30 aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby 35 expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are 40 meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments may be used in any combination. In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is 45 understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description. -26- Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of )0 the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as falling within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be )5 interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention. The present invention will now be more fully described by reference to the following non limiting embodiments. i0 PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION At Fig. 1 there is shown a network configured to transmit information from level sensors 20 within the washrooms 30 of a building 32 across a local area network (LAN) 34 to a i5 computer 36. Each washroom 30 has a product dispenser 38, for which the level sensor 20 is configured to determine the level of product contained therein. The sensor 20 is connected to a microcontroller 22, which in turn is connected to a WiFi module 26. The sensor 20, '0 microcontroller 22, sensor and WiFi module is powered by a rechargeable battery 24. The level sensors 20 output a resistance which is proportional to the level of product remaining in the dispenser 38. The resistance is interpreted by the microcontroller 22 as a percentage (0% empty to 100% full), the percentage information passed to the WiFi module 75 26 which transmits the information 40 to the LAN 34, and finally to the computer 36. At Fig 2 there is shown a diagram of an exemplary soap dispenser having a housing 100 having a primary disposable reservoir 102 and a secondary reservoir 103 containing a liquid soap 104. The primary 102 and secondary 103 reservoirs are fluidly linked by the conduit 80 105. The soap 104 is dispensed through the nozzle 106 by the user depressing the spring loaded actuator 108 which in turn pushes the push rod 110. The push rod 110 passes through the pump 112 and causes the soap 104 to exit the nozzle 106. The push rod also actuates the power generator unit 114 which includes a flywheel (not 85 shown). Several rapid actuations of the actuator 108 to dispense soap causes rapid -27spinning of the flywheel which in turn rotates a dynamo-like generator (not shown) within the power generator unit 114. The electrical energy produced by the power generator unit 114 charges a battery pack 116. )0 Detection of a low level of liquid soap 104 is by use of a simple conductance switch comprising two metallic pins 118 which pierce and extend into the primary reservoir 102. Once the level of soap drops below the pins 118 (level shown at 120), current (supplied by battery 116 by wire 124) is interrupted, this condition being detected by the microcontroller 122 and transmitted to the WiFi module 126 by wires 128. The WiFi module is also powered )5 by battery 114 via wires 130. The WiFi module is configured to communicate with a local area network router (not shown). Turning now to Fig. 3 there is shown a block diagram of a system of the invention. Blocks 1010, 1020, 1030, are a variety of consumables dispenser in the washroom, 1 ONO is a shelf )0 for storage of washroom products in a warehouse. The dispenser and the shelves have integrated wireless sensors. The wireless sensor detects the amount of consumable items and transmits the detection result in the form of data packets to the wireless gateway 102, a wireless packet gateway then uploaded to the cloud. After cloud platform processed data may be browsed, such as laptop 103, smart phone 104, or desktop 105. Authorized smart )5 digital devices may be control a dispenser through the cloud platform, such as modifying the operating parameters, change the operation mode, and so on. Turning to Fig 4 there is shown a front sectional view washroom paper dispenser and side sectional view of 1010. 1011 is a dispenser housing, 1012 washroom roll, the spool 1013, and 1014 is a reflex light 10 sensitive component, 1015 is a reflex optical sensor radio circuit board. A light-sensitive component 1014 is installed in the vicinity of the reel 1013. When about to run out of washroom paper 1012, 1014 light-sensitive component detects the optical signal will change dramatically, this change reflects the state of the shortage of washroom paper 1012 amount, the microcontroller in the optical sensor 1015 convert light signals into digital electrical 15 signals, the controller and a wireless transceiver circuit transmits to the gateway 102 of Fig. 3 in the form of data packets, the gateway 102 is sent to the cloud platform 106. The optical sensor 1015 may also receive data from the cloud platform 106 through the wireless gateway 102, to set their own operating parameters or operating state based on the content data. -28- 20 Fig. 5 is a block diagram of the present invention is achieved in the case of washroom wireless sensor 1015. The present system may be embodied by way of a wireless sensor 1015 in the case a reflex optical sensor component 1014 microcontroller 10154, RF wireless transceiver controller 10152 and its peripheral circuits are integrated on a circuit board 10151. Wireless sensor board 10151 powered by a battery 10153, it may be converted from 25 the other natural energy power supply, such as solar batteries, vibration energy by pressure is converted into power, wind power generation, the power supply converted by the pivoting. The reflex optical sensing component 1014 detecting a light signal, the optical signal is converted into an electrical signal by the microcontroller 10154, the data are transmitted to the wireless gateway 102 of Fig. 3 under the control of wireless transceiver 10152. It may 30 also receive data from the cloud platform 106 through wireless gateway 102, or setting the operating parameters of their own according to the content of the data. Fig. 6 is a block diagram of wireless network 102 in the Fig. 3, a case of the present invention. Surrounded by the wireless gateway 102 and wireless transceiver controller of a circuit 1023, a microcontroller 1024, WiFi, and the controller 1022 components integrated 35 onto a circuit board 1021. The wireless transceiver controller 1023 receives the radio data sent from the wireless sensors, and then processed by the microcontroller 1024 is sent to cloud platform 106 in Fig. 3 through the WiFi controller 1022. WiFi controller 1022 receives data from cloud platform 106, data are processed by microcontroller 1024, then transmitted through a wireless transceiver 1023. Wireless gateway board 1021 powered by a battery 10 1025, it may be converted from the other natural energy power supply, such as solar batteries, vibration energy converted by pressure, wind power generation, electric power converted by pivoting. Fig. 7 is a diffuse reflex optical sensors wireless device configuration diagram of the present invention achieved in the case of washroom towel dispenser 1020. Item 1021 is the housing 45 of towel dispenser 1020, towel 1022 is stacked in the dispenser, the reflex optical component 1014 is installed near the bottom of the dispenser shown in the Fig., 1015 is a wireless optical reflex type sensor. When towel paper 1022 will be exhausted, the reflex optical component 1014 detected optical signal significant changes will occur, this change reflects the shortage of towel paper 1022 amount, microcontroller 1023 converts this optical 50 signal into an electric signal of the digital number, the wireless transceiver circuit in the form of data packets transmitted to the gateway 102 of Fig. 3, the gateway 102 is sent to the cloud platform 106. The wireless optical reflex type sensor 1015 may also receive data from the cloud platform 106 through the wireless gateway 102, to set their own operating parameters or operating state based on the content data. -29- )5 Fig. 8 is the case in the realization of the washroom liquid soap dispenser of the present invention, which is a configuration diagram of 1030. The liquid soap dispenser 1030 includes the dispenser housing 1031, liquid soap pool 1032, resistance-type water level sensor component 1033, wireless sensor circuit board 1034, liquid soap control valve 1035. Resistance-type water level sensor component 1033 placed vertically in the liquid pool 1032 i0 of liquid soap dispenser 1030, two electrodes at the end of the resistive sensing component 10303 are put deep into the wash liquid pool 1032 at the bottom of a certain depth, the other end is connected to a circuit board 1034 by the electric wire with the wireless the sensor. When a liquid soap will be exhausted, two electrodes do not touch liquid soap, then the other end of the resistor of two electrodes will be significantly changed, this change reflects the i5 shortage of state liquid soap. The microprocessor changes the resistance into an electric signal, and then transmits the signal to the wireless gateway 102 in Fig. 3, and then uploaded to the cloud platform 106. Resistance-type water level sensor 1034 may also receive data from the wireless gateway 102, set its own operating parameters or operating state based on the content data. Wireless resistance-type water level sensor 1034 powered '0 by a battery, it may be converted from the other natural energy power supply, such as solar battery power, the vibration energy, wind power generation, electric power converted by pivoting. Fig. 9 is a block diagram of the present invention, which is achieved in the case of washroom wireless resistance-type water level sensor 1034. As described herein, the present invention '5 achieves the case of a wireless sensor resistance-type water level sensor 1034 by a resistance type water level component 1033, a microcontroller 10342, RF wireless transceiver controller 10343 and its peripheral circuits are integrated on a circuit board 10341. Wireless sensor board 10341 powered by a battery 10345, it may be converted from the other natural energy power supply, such as solar batteries, vibration energy, wind power 80 generation, electric power converted by pivoting . Resistance-type water level sensing component 1033 detects the resistance changes of the liquid soap in liquid soap dispenser 1030, the microcontroller 10342 converts the resistance into an electrical signals, the electrical signals sent to the wireless gateway 102 of Fig. 3 through a wireless transceiver controller 10343. wireless sensor resistance-type water level sensor 1034 may also receive 85 data from the platform 106 through the wireless gateway 102, setting the operating parameters of its own operating state according to the content of the data. Fig. 10 is a block diagram of the case, a resistance-type level sensor configuration of the wireless device 1033 of the present invention. A resistance-type water level sensing component 1033 is on a circuit board 10331 substrate is etched out of a or more pairs of 90 copper electrodes 10334, which connected to 10333 through the copper wiring 10332. and -30the copper pad 10333 in Fig. 9 is connected to the microcontroller 10342. Resistance-type level sensor of the component electrodes 1033 and 10334 were detected between the two pairs of liquid contact pad 10333 is able to measure a voltage value, the voltage value corresponding to the resistance value between the electrodes, the voltage value of the )5 measured change in reflex changes of the liquid level, that is, the liquid dispenser 1030 changes the amount of liquid soap. The microcontroller 10342 in Fig. 9 converted the voltage value into the processed data, the data in the form of data packets transmitted by the wireless transceiver 10343 to the wireless gateway 102 in Fig. 3. Fig. 11 is the configuration diagram in the case of the present invention for the warehouse )0 shelf management. Warehouse shelf 1ONO has several layers 1ON1, each layer separated into several fixation frames 10N2, each frame is correspondence with a particular cargo. The diffuse reflex optical sensing component 10N3 is installed in position of each frame, a wireless diffuse reflex optical sensing device 10N4 is mounted on each shelf. A diffuse reflex optical sensing device may be configured with multiple diffuse optical sensing component. )5 When the goods to a position on the frame is removed, the empty frame or the full frame is in the position, the diffuse reflex optical sensing component detects this change, 10N4 converts this state into the digital data, which is sent to the wireless gateway 102 of Fig. 3, and then transmitted to cloud platform 106 through the wireless gateway . The reflex optical sensing device 10N4 may receive packets from the wireless gateway 102 according to the 10 information content of the data packet, modifying their operating parameters. Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram of the physical relationship for the wireless diffuse reflex optical sensing device 10N4 on warehouse shelf 1ONO in the case of the present invention. Diffuse reflex optical sensing device 10N4 consists of the diffuse reflex optical sensor components 10N44,10N45,10N46 ...N and so on, microcontroller 10N47, wireless 15 transceiver controller 10N42 integrated onto a circuit board 10N41. 10N43 board powered by a battery 10N41, it may be converted from the other natural energy power supply, such as solar battery power, the vibration energy, wind power generation, electric power converted by pivoting. Detecting changes in position of the frame cargo with diffuse reflex optical sensing component 10N44,10N45,10N46 etc, microprocessor 10N47 converts the optical 20 signal into an electric level signal sent by the wireless transceiver controller 10N41 to the wireless gateway 102 of Fig. 3, wireless gateway 102 then sends the data to the cloud platform 106. transceiver controller 10N41 may also receive packets from the wireless gateway 102, according to the information content of the data packet, modifying their operating parameters. -31- 25 In light of the exemplary embodiments described above, the present invention may be defined as a washroom consumable items state wireless sensors detect and supply chain guidance system, equipped with wireless sensors dispenser 1010,1020,1030, warehouse shelves 1ONO, wireless gateways 102, cloud platform 106, intelligent digital device 103, 104,105. 30 In the washroom consumables dispenser 1010, 1020,1030 and on the storage shelves 1ONO in the warehouse there are wireless sensors to monitor the consumption of consumable items and communicate with the wireless gateway 102. Wireless Gateway 102 processes wireless sensor data and communicates with the cloud platform 106. 35 Cloud platform 106 communicates with these intelligent digital devices 103,104,105. Wireless gateway 102 processes the data from the cloud platform 106, and communicates with the wireless sensor devices, to control the wireless sensor. Cloud platform 106 processes a large of data from wireless sensor devices through wireless gateway 102, the data stored in the cloud platform 106 databases, intelligent digital mobile -0 devices 103, 104, 105 may access the database on the cloud platform 106 by wireless access security certification, characterized in that: said wireless sensor devices for detecting information in a certain range of environment, are configured to send packets to the wireless gateway, and it also may receive data packets from a wireless gateway, according to the data packet content and then perform a test or send data, or change the operation time and 15 cycles, changing power saving mode, change the wireless sensor networking between them. Wherein said wireless gateway 102 is configured to receive information from the wireless sensor devices 1010, 1020,1030,1ONO and upload to the cloud platform 106; configured to receive information from the cloud platform 106 and then spread to wireless sensor devices 1010,1020,1030,1ONO. 50 Wherein the cloud platform 106 receives information from the wireless gateway 102, and stored them in the cloud platform 106 databases, smart digital mobile devices may access data in the cloud database by secure authentication. In respect of the device such as the 101 and 102 described above, diffuse reflex optical sensing wireless sensor 1015 detects state of washroom consumables items, and 55 communicates with the wireless gateway 102, upload data, and receives data from wireless gateway 102 to modify their own operating parameters and operating condition. Diffuse -32reflex optical sensing wireless sensors 1015 is put on the position in the case of the present invention , shown in Figure 5 and Figure 7. With regard to the wireless sensor 1015, the relationship with the other devices physics i0 schematic drawings as shown in Figure 7. Diffuse reflex optical sensing device 1014, a microcontroller 10154, wireless transceiver controller 10152 is integrated on a circuit board 10151. Wireless sensor board 10151 powered by a battery 10153, it may be converted from the other natural energy power supply, such as solar batteries, vibration energy, wind power generation, the power supply converted from mechanical movements. i5 The relationship between the wireless gateway 102 and each devices physics schematic may be as shown in Figure 4, the wireless gateway 102 consists of WiFi controller 1022 , microcontroller 1024, wireless transceiver controller 1023, which integrated into a circuit board 1021. Wireless transceiver controller 1023 receives data sent from the wireless sensors, and then processed by the microcontroller 1024 and is sent to the cloud platform '0 106 through WiFi controller 1022. The cloud platform 106 receives data from the WiFi controller 1022, the microcontroller 1024 processes wireless sensor's data, then data were sent by the wireless transceiver controller 1023. A battery-powered wireless gateway 102, it may be powered by the other natural energy power supply, such as solar batteries, vibration energy, wind power generation, electric power converted by mechanical movement,or by '5 thermal energy. The device 1030 may have an internal relationship schematic diagram between devices in the resistance-type water level sensor as shown in Figure 9. A resistance-type water level sensing component 1033, a microcontroller 10342, wireless transceiver controller 10343 are integrated on a circuit board 10341. Installation of the liquid dispenser 1030 as shown in Fig 80 8. Wireless sensor board 10341 powered by a battery 10345, it may be powered from the other natural energy power supply, such as solar batteries, vibration energy, wind power generation, electric power converted by mechanics. Resistance-type water level sensor component 1033 detects the resistance changes of the liquid in the liquid dispenser 1030, the microcontroller 10342 processes the resistance and changes the electrical signal into 85 digital data. The data is sent to the wireless gateway 102 in Figure 3 through a wireless transceiver controller 10343. Device 1030 may also receive data from the platform 106 through the wireless gateway 102 to set its own operating parameters or operating state according to the content of the data. The resistance-type water level sensing component 1033 may be as shown in the structure 90 1034 as in Figure 10, there are one or more pairs of isolated electrodes 10334 on circuit substrate 10331, the wire 10332 connects between the electrode 10334 and microcontrollers -33- 10342. A resistance-type water level sensing component 1033 is placed in the liquid dispenser 1030 shown in figures 6, the microcontroller 10342 shown in Figure 9 measure the voltage between the electrodes, the voltage value corresponds directly to the resistance )5 between the two electrodes resistance, if the voltage exceeds a set limit, then the resistance between the two electrodes resistance undergone significant changes, it indicates that the amount of liquid inside the liquid dispenser 1030 changes. In the equipment 10NO, the physical relationship schematic between components in wireless multi-point diffuse reflex sensors 10N4 may be as shown in Figure 10. Several )0 reflex optical sensing components 10N44,10N45,10N46 etc. and microcontroller 10N47, wireless transceiver controller 1 0N42 integrated onto a circuit board 1 0N41. board powered by a battery 10N43, it may be powered from the other natural energy power supply, such as solar battery power, the vibration energy, wind power generation, electric power converted by mechanics. Wireless multi-point Diffuse reflex sensing components were mounted on he )5 position as shown in Figure 9, but not limited to the illustrated, according to the structure and placement of consumable items. The wireless diffuse reflex optical sensor 1015 may be a wireless resistor type level sensor 1034 as described, wireless multi-point diffuse reflex sensor 10N4 such as described, their communication with wireless gateway 102 in accordance with IEEE802.15.4 standard, the 10 carrier frequency may be 315MHz, 433MHz, 868MHz, 915MHz, 2.4GHz ISM band, they may apply FSK, zigbee, Xbee technology, and may also adopted WiFi technology communications in accordance with IEEE802.11 standard. Wireless sensors 1010,1020,1030 and the wireless connection between the wireless gateway 102 may also be through a wireless repeater or wireless bridge connection in order to further expanding 15 the coverage of the radio signal to extended range of wireless communication. Wireless repeaters and bridge, wireless gateway, being under the same technical and standard wireless communication protocol. The Wireless gateway 102 may communicates with cloud platform 106 using WiFi technology in accordance with the IEEE802.11 standard. Wireless gateway 102 and cloud 20 platform 106 may also follow ETHERNET standards by way of a network cable connection. The communication between wireless gateway 102 and wireless sensor 1010,1020,1030, is in accordance with IEEE802.15.4 standard, the carrier frequency may be 315MHz, 433MHz, 868MHz, 915MHz, 2.4GHz ISM band, may apply FSK, zigbee, Xbee technology, and also may be IEEE802.11 standards in accordance with WiFi technology. 25 The wireless sensor device is not limited to several types described in the present invention, the sensor maybe a temperature sensing component, humidity sensing component, -34pressure sensing component, capacitive sensing component, electromagnetic type sensing component, infrared sensors, laser sensors, acceleration sensors, height sensing component, direction sensor, displacement sensor, etc. in the field of well-known types of 30 sensors. The wireless sensors 1015,1034,10N4 and in the wireless gateway 102 microcontroller are not limited to those described in the present invention, and may be 8 bit, 16 bit, 32 bit or even are 64 bit various types of microcontrollers produced by other manufacturers. Wireless sensors 1015,1034,10N4 and in the wireless gateway 102 wireless transceiver 35 controllers are not limited to those described in in the present invention, they could be various types of wireless transceiver controller by other manufacturers. The above description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles described herein 10 may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is to be understood that the description and drawings presented herein represent a presently preferred embodiment of the invention and are therefore representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present invention. It is further understood that the scope of the present invention fully encompasses other 15 embodiments that may become obvious to those skilled in the art. -35-

Claims (24)

1. A system for managing the supply and/or inventory of a washroom product, the )0 system comprising: one or more washroom product dispensers or receivers comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the stored level of a product therein and (ii) a first wireless communication means, and/or 5 one or more washroom facility installations comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to indentify a malfunction state of the installation and (ii) a second wireless communication means, and/or i0 one or more washroom sensors configured to identify a washroom environmental parameter, the one or more sensors comprising a third wireless communication means, and/or one or more washroom product storage areas comprising (i) an electric or electronic i5 sensor configured to identify the presence or absence of a washroom product stored therein and (ii) a fourth wireless communication means, a processor-controlled device in network communication with the first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth wireless communication means, 'O wherein, in use, the wireless communication means transmits sensor-obtained information to the processor-controlled device.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein the product dispenser is a toilet roll dispenser, a soap 75 dispenser, a fragrance dispenser, a drinking water dispenser, a feminine hygiene product dispenser, a condom dispenser, a tooth brush dispenser, a comb dispenser, or the product receiver is a waste receptacle.

3. The system of claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the washroom facility installation is a toilet, 80 a basin, a bidet, a tap, a hand dryer, a light, an exhaust fan, a heater, a cooler, an advertising or information video display unit or audio unit, -36-

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the sensor configured to identify a washroom environmental parameter is capable of sensing, humidity, light, temperature, an 15 odour, the presence or movement of a person,

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth communication means is/are a radio device. )0

6. The system of claim 5 wherein the radio device is selected form the group consisting of a WiFi device, a ZIGBEE device, a BLUETOOTH device, a sub-GHz ISM band device, and a 2.4GHz ISM band device

7. The system of claim 5 or claim 6 wherein the radio device operates on a mesh )5 networking protocol.

8. The system of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the processor controlled device is a fixed computer, or a mobile device. )0

9. The system of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein (i) the one or more washroom product dispensers or receivers and/or (ii) the one or more washroom facility installations and/or (iii) the one or more washroom sensors are powered by the conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy, optionally by a rechargeable battery, a thin-film battery, a photovoltaic solar panel, a microgenerator, a )5 vibration-power generating battery, or a triboelectric generator.

10. The system of claim 9 wherein the mechanical action is an action involved in dispensing a product from a washroom dispenser. 10

11. The system of claim 10 wherein the mechanical action is selected from the group consisting of opening a door, lifting a toilet seat, lowering a toilet seat, actuating the flush mechanism of a toilet, the flow of water, removal of toilet paper from a dispenser, removal of liquid soap from a dispenser, removal of a towel from a dispenser, removal of a feminine hygiene product from a dispenser, actuating the lid of waste receptacle, opening a tap, 15 closing a tap, and the flow of air.

12. The system of any one of claim 9 to 11 wherein the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy comprises the use of a generator. -37- 20

13. The system of any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein the electrical energy is stored in a rechargeable battery.

14. A washroom product dispenser or receiver comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the stored level of a product therein and (ii) a wireless 25 communication means, and optionally means for conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy.

15. A washroom facility installation comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify a malfunction state and (ii) a wireless communication means, and 30 optionally means for conversion of a mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy.

16. A washroom sensor configured to identify a washroom environmental parameter comprising a wireless communication means, and optionally means for conversion of a 35 mechanical action involved in a user using the washroom into electrical energy.

17. A washroom product storage area, the area comprising (i) an electric or electronic sensor configured to identify the presence or absence of a washroom product stored therein and (ii) a wireless communication means. |-0

18. A method for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the method comprising use of a system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

19. A method for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the method 45 comprising use of a washroom product dispenser or receiver according to claim 14 and/or a washroom facility installation according to claim 15 and/or a washroom sensor according to claim 16, and/or a washroom product storage area according to claim 17.

20. A washroom comprising a washroom product dispenser or receiver according to 50 claim 14 and/or a washroom facility installation according to claim 15 and/or a washroom sensor according to claim 16.

21. An electronic database comprising data or information for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the data or information provided by the system of any 55 one of claims 1 to 13, or the washroom product dispenser according to claim 14, or the -38- washroom sensor of claim 16, the washroom product of claim 17, or the method of claim 18 or claim 19, or the washroom of claim 20.

22. The system of any one of claims 1 to 13, or the washroom product dispenser iO according to claim 14, or the washroom sensor of claim 16, the washroom product of claim 17, or the method of claim 18 or claim 19, or the washroom of claim 20, comprising a storage medium, wherein the storage medium comprises data or information for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, and wherein the storage medium is selected from the group consisting of a fixed computer, a remote computer, a mobile device, a TF i5 card, a usb card, a sd card, a portable hard disk, a cloud server.

23. A method for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the method comprising the step of electronically processing data or information for managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory, the data or information provided by the 'O system of any one of claims 1 to 13, or the washroom product dispenser according to claim 14, or the washroom sensor of claim 16, the washroom product of claim 17, or the method of claim 18 or claim 19, or the washroom of claim 20.

24 Use of data or information provided by the system of any one of claims 1 to 13, or the '5 washroom product dispenser according to claim 14, or the washroom sensor of claim 16, the washroom product of claim 17, or the method of claim 18 or claim 19, or the washroom of claim 20 in managing a washroom and/or washroom product inventory. DATED: 18 September 2014 80 BY: CHURCHILL ATTORNEYS Patent Attorneys for: KCROWN AUSTRALIA PTY LTD 85 as trustee for the TT FAMILY TRUST 49 Hughes Street -39- UPWEY 3158 AUSTRALIA -40-