AU2019100857A4 - Dispensing System - Google Patents

Abstract

A sunscreen dispensing machine for dispensing predetermined quantities of at least one sunscreen liquid applicable to skin of a user; the machine including a dispensing area within a body of the machine; a liquid dispensing nozzle disposed within the dispensing area; the liquid dispensing nozzle dispensing the sunscreen liquid; the sunscreen liquid having a viscosity in range between 10,000 to 150,000 centipoise urged through the dispensing nozzle by a positive displacement pump wherein the positive displacement pump is a peristaltic pump.

Description

DISPENSING SYSTEM

2019100857 02 Aug 2019

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to the application of protective preparations and, more particularly although not exclusively, to machines for dispensing of sunscreen.

BACKGROUND [0002] It is widely known and generally understood that excessive exposure to ultra violet (UV) radiation can lead to life-threatening cancers of the skin. The use of sunscreen lotions for application to the skin when exposed is thus widely promoted.

[0003] Nevertheless, people may forget to bring suitable lotion to a visit to a beach or other leisure location where it is desired to reduce clothing. Moreover, sunscreen lotions have a limited shelf life so that users may find that the lotion they have brought is no longer effective, or the quantity insufficient for the duration of their exposure.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to address or at least ameliorate some of the above disadvantages.

Notes [0005] The term “comprising” (and grammatical variations thereof) is used in this specification in the inclusive sense of “having” or “including”, and not in the exclusive sense of “consisting only of’.

[0006] The above discussion of the prior art in the Background of the invention, is not an admission that any information discussed therein is citable prior art or part of the common general knowledge of persons skilled in the art in any country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Definitions [0007] Within a body of the machine - this term encompasses components within the volume occupied by the machine and within the footprint of the machine.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [0008] High viscosity liquid - being liquid with a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 150,000 centipoise.

[0009] Accordingly in one broad form of the invention there is provided a sunscreen dispensing machine for dispensing predetermined quantities of at least one sunscreen liquid applicable to skin of a user; the machine including a dispensing area within a body of the machine; a liquid dispensing nozzle disposed within the dispensing area; the liquid dispensing nozzle dispensing the sunscreen liquid; the sunscreen liquid having a viscosity in range between 10,000 to 150,000 centipoise urged through the dispensing nozzle by a positive displacement pump.

[00010] Preferably, the sunscreen liquid is an SPF 30+ sunscreen liquid.

[00011] Preferably, the sunscreen liquid is an SPF 50+ sunscreen liquid.

[00012] Preferably, the positive displacement pump is a peristaltic pump.

[00013] Preferably, the machine includes payment facilities.

[00014] Accordingly in another broad form of the invention there is provided a sunscreen dispensing machine for dispensing predetermined quantities of at least one sunscreen liquid applicable to skin of a user; the machine including a dispensing area within a body of the machine; a liquid dispensing nozzle disposed within the dispensing area; the sunscreen liquid having a viscosity in range between 10,000 to 150,000 centipoise.

[00015] Accordingly in another broad form of the invention there is provided a sunscreen liquid dispensing machine; the machine including a cylindrical aperture in a body of the machine sized to allow the insertion of hands and arms of a user; the cylindrical aperture provided with a liquid dispensing nozzle to deliver selected predetermined volumes of the sunscreen liquid to the user; wherein the machine includes an aperture in the form of a cylindrical through aperture extending from the aperture in a front panel to an aperture in the rear panel of the body of the machine and sized so as to allow the insertion of at least the hands and arms of a user; and wherein viscosity of the sunscreen liquid is ranged between 10,000 to 150,000 centipoise.

[00016] Accordingly in yet another broad form of the invention there is also provided a machine for dispensing predetermined quantities of at least one liquid applicable to skin of a user; the

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 machine including a dispensing area within a body of the machine; a liquid dispensing nozzle disposed within the dispensing area.

[00017] Preferably, the liquid is a sunscreen lotion.

[00018] Preferably, the liquid is a body moisturising lotion.

[00019] Preferably, the liquid is a cleaning lotion.

[00020] Preferably, the machine further includes a monitoring system for monitoring correct application of a quantity of the liquid by the user.

[00021] Preferably, the monitoring system includes a camera.

[00022] Preferably, the monitoring system includes a processor which receives image data from the camera.

[00023] Preferably, the dispensing area comprising an aperture in a front panel of the body of the machine.

[00024] Preferably, the aperture is a cylindrical through aperture extending from the aperture in the front panel to an aperture in a rear panel of the body of the machine.

[00025] Preferably, the front panel includes a data display module.

[00026] Preferably, the machine is provided with a UV monitor; the UV monitor recording a displaying current UV readings on the display module.

[00027] Preferably, the front panel includes payment facilities.

[00028] Preferably, the front panel includes liquid dispensing control elements.

[00029] Preferably, one or more volumes of the liquid are located in one or more liquid reservoirs within the body of the machine.

[00030] Preferably, the one or more reservoirs are re-useable and exchangeable containers.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [00031] Preferably, each re-useable and exchangeable container is coded according to content and batch data.

[00032] Preferably, the machine dispenses one of a selection of sunscreens; the selection including at least SPF30+ and SPF50+.

[00033] Preferably, the machine further includes memory and central processor modules.

[00034] Preferably, the machine is provided with internet router and SIM card for communication via a mobile telephone service provider.

[00035] Preferably, the machine is accessible over the internet through a web UI (User Interface) system.

[00036] Preferably, the web UI system provides for remote operation of the machine including changing status of the machine between operable and inoperable.

[00037] Preferably, the machine records and reports usage transactions conducted by the machine.

[00038] Preferably, the machine monitors and reports on levels of liquid present in the one or more reservoirs.

[00039] Preferably, the machine is fitted with sensors for monitoring and reporting damage or malfunction of the machine.

[00040] Preferably, the machine includes EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) facility for accepting credit card transactions for sunscreen dispensing.

[00041] Preferably, the machine is further provided with an NFC (Near Field Communication) transceiver.

[00042] Preferably, operating electrical power for the machine is grid mains power.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [00043] Preferably, operating electrical power for the machine is provided from photovoltaic collector panels mounted on the body of the machine.

[00044] Preferably, the machine includes a wrist band dispensing unit; a wristband purchased by a user enabling the user to activate the machine to dispense a volume of liquid by a presentation of the wristband to the NFC transceiver.

[00045] Preferably, the machine is operable via a mobile phone application.

[00046] Preferably, the mobile phone application includes data relevant to UV protection and cancer risk information.

[00047] Preferably, the mobile phone application monitors elapse of time since a last application facilitated by the application; the application reminding a user when elapsed time requires a reapplication of sunscreen.

[00048] In a further broad form of the invention there is provided a method of providing predetermined volumes of a liquid applicable to skin of a user; the method including the provision of a liquid dispensing machine; the machine including a dispensing area within a body of the machine and a camera for monitoring a dispensing transaction.

[00049] Preferably, the liquid is a sunscreen lotion.

[00050] Preferably, the liquid is a moisturising lotion.

[00051] Preferably, the liquid is a cleaning lotion.

[00052] Preferably, the liquid is dispensed on completion of a payment transaction facilitated through payment facilities on a front panel of the machine.

[00053] Preferably, the machine includes memory and central processor modules.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [00054] Preferably, the machine is provided with internet router and SIM card for communication via a mobile telephone service provider.

[00055] Preferably, the machine is accessible over the internet through a web UI (User Interface) system.

[00056] In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a liquid dispensing machine; the machine including a cylindrical aperture in a body of the machine sized to allow the insertion of hands and arms of a user; the cylindrical aperture provided with a liquid dispensing nozzle to deliver selected predetermined volumes of the liquid to the user.

[00057] Preferably, the liquid is any one or a combination of a sunscreen lotion, a moisturising lotion or a cleaning lotion.

[00058] In yet a further broad form of the invention there is provided a machine for dispensing predetermined quantities of at least one liquid applicable to skin of a user; the machine including a dispensing area within a body of the machine; a liquid dispensing nozzle disposed within the dispensing area; the liquid dispensing nozzle being a low delivery nozzle; the liquid being a high viscosity liquid dispensed in a predetermined continuous portion for each delivery operation.

[00059] Preferably, the liquid flows downwards in the direction of gravity from the tip of the nozzle onto the user’s hand.

[00060] Preferably, the machine includes at least one peristaltic pump for urged, metered delivery of a predetermined continuous portion of the liquid.

[00061] Preferably, the peristaltic pump is connected to at least one braided tube.

[00062] Preferably, the braided tube is connected to a bladder containing the liquid thereby the bladder is utilised as a reservoir for the fluid and is placed in communication with the tubing with the peristaltic pump.

[00063] Preferably, the liquid is a sunscreen lotion.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [00064] Preferably, the sunscreen lotion is an SPF30+ sunscreen lotion.

[00065] Preferably, the sunscreen lotion is an SPF50+ sunscreen lotion.

[00066] Preferably, the viscosity of the sunscreen is ranged between 10,000 to 150,000 centipoise.

[00067] Preferably, the viscosity of the SPF 30+ sunscreen lotion is ranged between 25,000 to 35,000 centipoise.

[00068] Preferably, the viscosity of the SPF 50+ sunscreen lotion is ranged between 25,000 to 50,000 centipoise.

[00069] Preferably, the liquid dispensing nozzle is a retractable nozzle.

[00070] Preferably, a pivoting door is located in close proximity to the retractable nozzle to protect the retractable nozzle when the nozzle is in the retracted form.

[00071] Preferably, a catchment area is located at the foot of the machine to catch excess liquid.

[00072] Preferably, the bladder is located underground beneath the machine.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [00073] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

[00074] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a sunscreen dispensing machine according to a preferred embodiment.

[00075] Figure 2 is an electronic block diagram of a control and communications system usable to implement control and communication functions of the embodiments described with reference to figure 1.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [00076] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a sunscreen dispensing machine according to a further preferred embodiment.

[00077] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a sunscreen dispensing machine according to the third embodiment. Figure 4 illustrates two inset views being Inset A and Inset B.

[00078] Figure 5 is a line diagram of the liquid dispensing circuit suitable for use with the embodiments of the present invention.

[00079] Figure 6 is a side view of the sunscreen dispensing machine illustrating a catchment area to catch excess sunscreen lotion.

[00080] Figure 7 is a side view of the sunscreen dispensing machine illustrating an underground storage area beneath the machine.

[00081] Figure 8 is a side view of the sunscreen dispensing machine illustrating a retractable nozzle in accordance with the fourth embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

First Preferred Embodiment [00082] With reference to Figure 1, in a first embodiment, a liquid dispensing system 10 is incorporated within a dispensing machine 12 suitable for situating at places where high exposure to UV radiation may be expected, such as along beach-front esplanades, nearby shopping areas or recreation parks for example.

[00083] The machine 12 is configured to dispense predetermined quantities of at least one liquid to a user in return for payment. In this first preferred embodiment the at least one liquid is sunscreen lotion. As can be seen in Figure 1, the machine 12, comprising an IP (Ingress Protection) rated enclosure, is provided with a dispensing area 14 within the body of the machine, comprising, in this embodiment an aperture 16 in the front panel 18 of the machine 12. Preferably, the aperture 16 is in the form of a cylindrical through aperture 20 extending from the aperture in the front panel to an aperture in the rear panel of the body of the machine and sized so as to allow the insertion of at least the hands and arms of a user.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [00084] A dispensing nozzle (not visible in the view of Figure 1) is located at an upper portion of the through aperture. A user (not shown) may insert one or both hands into the aperture 16, and if payment has been made, this action is sensed by a motion or proximity sensor located in the through aperture 20 causing a dispensing pump to eject a predetermined volume of sunscreen into the hand or hands of the user. In an alternative, or additional dispensing arrangement, the machine may be provided with a dispensing nozzle and short hose (not shown) made accessible to a user from within a secured locker when a transaction is made.

[00085] Sunscreen lotion is dispensed from one or more reusable sunscreen reservoirs retained in the body of the machine 12. Preferably these reservoirs comprise injection moulded containers of recyclable plastic. The desired, predetermined volume of sunscreen lotion is drawing from the container currently in use by, for example, a peristaltic pump. The containers are provided with a unique code allowing every batch of sunscreen to be monitored. Preferably, the machine is enabled to dispense at least two grades of sunscreen, SPF30+ and SPF50+ for example. Again preferably, the machine may provide for a selection of the quantity of sunscreen desired, for example a smaller amount for children, or just the arms of a user or a larger volume for whole of body protection.

[00086] The machine 12 is provided with temperature and UV sensors and displays this information on the display screen 24. The display may include a suitable warning about the dangers of exposure to high levels of UV. This warning may include audio announcements and may further include the well-known Cancer Council Slip Slop Slap chimes.

[00087] Included in the front panel 18 of the machine is a camera 22 for monitoring dispensing transactions and the correct application of the dispensed lotion. Also provided on the front panel 18 is a data display 24 and payment facilities 26. These latter may include cash and/or credit card slots, and a near field communication (NFC) transceiver for contactless payment via the EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) system. The display 24 may be in the form of a touch screen for selection of the sunscreen and volume required and the method of payment. Instructions for use may include graphics to overcome language barriers. Further to this, a Braille panel may be provided for user guidance.

[00088] Included in the machine are an internet router and SIM card for communication via a mobile phone service provider.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [00089] The machine 12 is provided with a web UI (User Interface) system operated by server 109, and includes central processor and memory modules. The UI system provides for access to the machine’s operation from anywhere in the world and allows remote operations of the machine, including the changes of machine status between operable and inoperable and purging of the dispensing system when required. This communication link between the machine 12 and an operating entity furthermore provides for monitoring various functions of the machine, including the levels of sunscreen remaining in the reservoirs, the number of transactions over time and the conditions of temperature and UV level current for each transaction. The monitoring of temperature and UV levels allows the machine to report these conditions over time via the machines communication links.

[00090] As well sensors are provided for monitoring and reporting malfunction or damage so as to provide for timely repair or service by technicians.

[00091] In one embodiment, the machine 12 is powered from a mains power supply but alternatively, the top or other panels of the machine may be provided with one or more photovoltaic arrays and a battery to provide operating power. Machines are designed to generate natural cooling convection to remove heat from within the machine and maintain the sunscreen at acceptable storage temperature.

[00092] Although in some forms the machines 12 may be fixed in place, other portable versions may be provided for hire, for example for use at outdoor events away from places where permanently installed machines may be found. Some forms of the machine may be made in sizes more particularly suited to the use of children, for use in schools and preschools for example, even in the latter case, configured as some recognizable children’s character.

[00093] In one preferred configuration of the machine 12, it is provided with a wrist band dispensing arrangement. Once purchased, these waterproof wrist bands 110 act in place of a credit card to facilitate touch free purchases of sunscreen through the NFC facility of the machine.

[00094] In one preferred embodiment, the machine 12 operates in conjunction with an application 106 downloadable by users to a smart communication device such as a smart phone 107 (refer figure 2). The application will be configured to guide a would-be user to the nearest machine or if there is a machine at a desired destination. The application may further provide reminders to a user as to the need to re-apply sunscreen based on elapsed time since an initial application and the

2019100857 02 Aug 2019

UV level as recorded by the machine. One advantageous feature of the application is that it may monitor that a child has correctly applied sunscreen a directed by a parent.

[00095] A smart phone readable QR or matrix bar code may be provided on the machine, through which a user may access regulatory information after a transaction.

Second Preferred Embodiment [00096] In this second preferred embodiment, the machine is configured as described above for the first preferred embodiment in that it has the identical physical, connectivity and transaction features.

[00097] In this embodiment however, the machine is adapted for the dispensing of more than one type of liquid. In one preferred arrangement the liquids may comprise a cleaning lotion and a moisturising lotion, making the machine useful for work locations such as constructions sites, manufacturing facilities and car service centres for example.

[00098] Charged with suitable cleaning lotion, the machine in this configuration may also be installed in hospitals and other areas of high hygiene requirements.

[00099] With reference to figure 2 there is illustrated an electronic block diagram of a control and communications system 100 which may be utilised to implement operations of either the first or second embodiments described above.

[000100] Broadly the control and communications system 100 includes a processor 101 in communication with a memory 102 by way of a communications bus 103. The bus 103 also enables electronic communications with inputs 104 and outputs 105.

[000101] A program residing in memory 102 may be executed by processor 101 to give effect to the actions described in the above described embodiments.

[000102] In particular forms an application 106 executable on a smart phone 107 may communicate via internet 108 with inputs 104 of the control and communications system 100.

Third Embodiment

2019100857 02 Aug 2019 [000103] With reference to Figures 3A, 3B and 3C, in this third preferred embodiment, the machine is configured as described in the first embodiment in that it has identical connectivity and transaction features. Like components as numbered as for the first embodiment except in the 300 series.

[000104] In this embodiment, the machine is smaller in width. The housing profile in side section is in the shape of an “S” as best seen in the side view of Figure 3C. There are photovoltaic collector panels 300 mounted on the vertical length of the front panel of the machine to maximise the collection of light energy. In between the series of photovoltaic collection panels is an aperture 320. In a preferred form the aperture is in the form of a cylinder extending through the housing from front to rear. The aperture is sized such that the user can place their hand inside the aperture 320 to receive the sunscreen lotion dispensed from the nozzle 302. In another embodiment, the nozzle 302 may be retractable. In use the nozzle is extended from the machine into the aperture when sunscreen is to be dispensed onto the user’s hand. The nozzle may then be retracted after the dispensing step. A pivoting door or a similar device may be installed over the retractable nozzle so that when the nozzle is retracted into the machine, the door will close over the nozzle so that the nozzle will be protected from damage or tampering by third parties/perpetrators.

[000105] With reference to figure 4, inset A is a cross section of the nozzle 302 in the retracted position with door 321 in a closed across the nozzle exit. Inset B illustrates nozzle 302 in an extended position with the door 321 retracted whereby the nozzle extends into the interior of the aperture 320. In this instance the nozzle comprises a generally Y cross section piping component wherein a first entry tube 304 and a second entry tube 305 are in communication with an exit tube 306. In a preferred form the axis of the first tube and the second tube intersect at an angle in the range of 45 degrees to 120 degrees.

[000106] In this embodiment, a camera 301 is located on the roof of the machine and is directed so as to monitor dispensing step. In preferred forms it may also monitor the correct application of the dispensed lotion.

[000107] With reference to figure 5, figure 5 illustrates a peristaltic pump 310 which feeds into the first entry tube 304 and second entry tube 305.

[000108] During a transaction, the user may select a predetermined amount of lotion via the use of a button 303. Upon payment, lotion will be dispensed from the machine onto the user’s hand.

2019100857 02 Aug 2019

The lotion is delivered by the use of at least one peristaltic pump inside the machine. The peristaltic pumps 310 are connected to tubes 304, 305 which are connected to the storage container of the lotion. Each lotion is stored in a disposable bladder or similar storage device within the machine. Preferably, the tubes connected to the peristaltic pump are braided tubes to prevent collapsed tubing or “flattening” of the tube. The amount of lotion dispensed is controlled by the number of rotations of the rotors in the machine.

[000109] In another embodiment, there may be a “catchment area” 311 located at the foot of the machine to “catch” excess lotion from the machine as illustrated in figure 6.

[000110] In an alternative embodiment, the lotion may be stored underground 312 beneath the machine as illustrated in figure 7.

[000111] Typically, the viscosity of the sunscreen lotion used in all embodiments may range from 10,000 centipoise to 150,000 centipoise. Preferably the viscosity of an SPF30+ sunscreen lotion will range from 25,000 to 35,000 centipoise and an SPF50+ sunscreen lotion will range from 25,000 to 50,000 centipoise measured at 21°C.

[000112] It will be noted that embodiments of the present invention deliver sunscreen lotion as a predetermined portion of a continuous stream of a high viscosity liquid.

[000113] With reference to figure 5 metering is performed by controlled rotation of the rotor 314 of a peristalitic pump sufficient to urge a predetermined portion of lotion within tube 315 along the tube such that a corresponding portion exits the nozzle 316.

Fourth Embodiment [000114] In a further embodiment, the machine is configured as described in the third embodiment in that it has identical connectivity and transaction features.

[000115] In this fourth embodiment, the dispensing area is not located within the cylindrical aperture. As shown in Figure 8, the nozzle is located on the lower mid portion on the front panel of the machine but still within the footprint of the machine. In this instance the nozzle does not extend past the line of the front face 413 of the machine 412. During a transaction, the nozzle 414 will extend from the machine to dispense the lotion onto a user’s hand. After the transaction has finished, the nozzle 414 will retract back into the machine and a pivoting door or similar device will 13 close over the nozzle for protection.

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Industrial Applicability [000116] The machine of the present invention provides, depending on its configuration and in a variety of environments, the ability to protect users from damaging UV radiation, cleaning hands from grime and bacterial contamination and/or moisturising the skin.

Claims (5)

1. 2019100857 02 Aug 2019

   1. A sunscreen dispensing machine for dispensing predetermined quantities of at least one sunscreen liquid applicable to skin of a user; the machine including a dispensing area within a body of the machine; a liquid dispensing nozzle disposed within the dispensing area; the liquid dispensing nozzle dispensing the sunscreen liquid; the sunscreen liquid having a viscosity in range between 10,000 to 150,000 centipoise urged through the dispensing nozzle by a positive displacement pump.
2. 2. The sunscreen dispensing machine of claim 1 wherein the sunscreen liquid is an SPF 30+ sunscreen liquid.
3. 3. The sunscreen dispensing machine of claim 1 wherein the sunscreen liquid is an SPF 50+ sunscreen liquid.
4. 4. The sunscreen dispensing machine of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the positive displacement pump is a peristaltic pump.
5. 5. The sunscreen dispensing machine of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the machine includes payment facilities.