CA2103249A1 - Release device - Google Patents
Release deviceInfo
- Publication number
- CA2103249A1 CA2103249A1 CA 2103249 CA2103249A CA2103249A1 CA 2103249 A1 CA2103249 A1 CA 2103249A1 CA 2103249 CA2103249 CA 2103249 CA 2103249 A CA2103249 A CA 2103249A CA 2103249 A1 CA2103249 A1 CA 2103249A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- container
- perforations
- liquid
- substance
- release device
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
- E03D9/00—Sanitary or other accessories for lavatories ; Devices for cleaning or disinfecting the toilet room or the toilet bowl; Devices for eliminating smells
- E03D9/02—Devices adding a disinfecting, deodorising, or cleaning agent to the water while flushing
- E03D9/03—Devices adding a disinfecting, deodorising, or cleaning agent to the water while flushing consisting of a separate container with an outlet through which the agent is introduced into the flushing water, e.g. by suction ; Devices for agents in direct contact with flushing water
- E03D9/033—Devices placed inside or dispensing into the cistern
- E03D9/038—Passive dispensers, i.e. without moving parts
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
- E03D9/00—Sanitary or other accessories for lavatories ; Devices for cleaning or disinfecting the toilet room or the toilet bowl; Devices for eliminating smells
- E03D9/02—Devices adding a disinfecting, deodorising, or cleaning agent to the water while flushing
- E03D9/03—Devices adding a disinfecting, deodorising, or cleaning agent to the water while flushing consisting of a separate container with an outlet through which the agent is introduced into the flushing water, e.g. by suction ; Devices for agents in direct contact with flushing water
- E03D9/032—Devices connected to or dispensing into the bowl
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Bidet-Like Cleaning Device And Other Flush Toilet Accessories (AREA)
- Mechanical Treatment Of Semiconductor (AREA)
- Control And Other Processes For Unpacking Of Materials (AREA)
- Lubricants (AREA)
- Agricultural Chemicals And Associated Chemicals (AREA)
Abstract
2103249 9220876 PCTABS00017 A release device for a lavatory or the like comprises a perforated container (20) filled with a gel (24) that is suspended in the lavatory pan. As water flows over the container (20) some of the gel (24) is dissolved, through the perforations (23).
Description
9 2 I Q 0 8 9 ~1;
2 ~ 32~ 26 ~ J3ST 1993 R~l~ase Devi~:e The present invention relates to release devices, and 5 mor~ partic:ularly to device~ for releasing a substance into a body of 1 iquid .
A knowIl release device for releasing a disinfectant or the like into a lavatory bowl comprises a plastics c:age lo ::ontaining a blo~::k o~ solid disinfectant which is susp~nded against the side of the bowl. When the l~vatory is f lush~d, wat~r pa~ses through th~ cage and dissolves some of the disinf ectant . However, the amount o~ disinfectant dissolved with every flush decreases 15 with the age of the bls: ck, as its surI ace area decreases. ~lso/ specialised equipment: is required to manufacture devices of this type~
The pres~nt imrention seeks 1:o provide a release devic 20 that releases a substance into a body of liquid a~ a ~ubsl:antially constant rate throughout its life~ The inv~ntion further seeks to provide a relaase device which is simple to manuf acture using standard machinery .
2~ US A-3 359 063 discloses a release device comprisi.ng a contain~r at least partially filled with a fluent substance, wherein in use the device is suspende~ in a liquid to allow substance to leave the container by dissolving into th~ liquid~
The fruent su~stan ::e leaves the container by f irst soaking into a sponge plug that acts as a stopper f or th~ contain~r. The small size of the pores in the plug results in a slow f low of substarlce into th~3 liquid .
35 This flow is too slow to e~f~ctively release the ~ SUBSTITUT~ SHEET
$~ ~ 2 / o ~ ~ 9 2~249 '~ Y~
substance into a flow of liquid.
Accordingly, a first aspect of th~ invention provides a release device comprising a container at least partially filled with a fluent substance, wherein in us~ the device is suspended in a liquid to allow substance to leave the container by ~issolving into the liquid, chàracterised in that the container is for susperlding in a flow o~' liquid in a lavatory pan, and includ~s one or 10 mor~ perfora~ions through which ths substanc~ does not flow under normal conditions ofr use.
The perforations allow a faster rate oP distribution of the substance into the liquid.
In a preferred arranyement, the device ~urther comprises su~pension means to suspend the device in the lavatory pan and the perforations are arranged opposite the suspension means.
Preferably, the container is divided by two partitions extending longitudinally through the container.
Preferably, the perforations are arranged in a 25 substantially rectangular wall forming a part o~' the container, ~ormed in th~ lower part of said elongate cylindern The perforations can be formed in a cap which closes an opening in said wall.
30 Preferably, detachable clo~ure means are provided to c~o~e.thé perforations. The closure means may compr~se a tear-o~f or snap~of~' strip.
Preferably, the de~ice has means to hang from the rim
A knowIl release device for releasing a disinfectant or the like into a lavatory bowl comprises a plastics c:age lo ::ontaining a blo~::k o~ solid disinfectant which is susp~nded against the side of the bowl. When the l~vatory is f lush~d, wat~r pa~ses through th~ cage and dissolves some of the disinf ectant . However, the amount o~ disinfectant dissolved with every flush decreases 15 with the age of the bls: ck, as its surI ace area decreases. ~lso/ specialised equipment: is required to manufacture devices of this type~
The pres~nt imrention seeks 1:o provide a release devic 20 that releases a substance into a body of liquid a~ a ~ubsl:antially constant rate throughout its life~ The inv~ntion further seeks to provide a relaase device which is simple to manuf acture using standard machinery .
2~ US A-3 359 063 discloses a release device comprisi.ng a contain~r at least partially filled with a fluent substance, wherein in use the device is suspende~ in a liquid to allow substance to leave the container by dissolving into th~ liquid~
The fruent su~stan ::e leaves the container by f irst soaking into a sponge plug that acts as a stopper f or th~ contain~r. The small size of the pores in the plug results in a slow f low of substarlce into th~3 liquid .
35 This flow is too slow to e~f~ctively release the ~ SUBSTITUT~ SHEET
$~ ~ 2 / o ~ ~ 9 2~249 '~ Y~
substance into a flow of liquid.
Accordingly, a first aspect of th~ invention provides a release device comprising a container at least partially filled with a fluent substance, wherein in us~ the device is suspended in a liquid to allow substance to leave the container by ~issolving into the liquid, chàracterised in that the container is for susperlding in a flow o~' liquid in a lavatory pan, and includ~s one or 10 mor~ perfora~ions through which ths substanc~ does not flow under normal conditions ofr use.
The perforations allow a faster rate oP distribution of the substance into the liquid.
In a preferred arranyement, the device ~urther comprises su~pension means to suspend the device in the lavatory pan and the perforations are arranged opposite the suspension means.
Preferably, the container is divided by two partitions extending longitudinally through the container.
Preferably, the perforations are arranged in a 25 substantially rectangular wall forming a part o~' the container, ~ormed in th~ lower part of said elongate cylindern The perforations can be formed in a cap which closes an opening in said wall.
30 Preferably, detachable clo~ure means are provided to c~o~e.thé perforations. The closure means may compr~se a tear-o~f or snap~of~' strip.
Preferably, the de~ice has means to hang from the rim
3~ of a lavatory pan and rest against the bowl th~reof.
The ~luent substance may be one or more o~ the ~ollowing ?.~m f~ ~ ;t O f 21~ 3 2 4 9 2 6 AUGllS~ 199 substances: a detergentO a colouring agent, a perfume, a biocide, bleach, or an insecticide.
According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a release device comprising a container at least paxtially illed with a fluent substance, wherein in use the device is suspended in a liquid to allow substance to leave the container by dissolving into the liquid, charasteri~ed in that the device is for 10 susp~nding in a flow o~ liquid, and in that the container includas one or mor~ per~orations through which the sub~tanc~ doe~ not flow under no~mal conditions o~ us~.
15 According to a third aspec~ of the invention there is provid~d a method of releasing a fluent substance into a ~lo~w o~ liquid, the method comprising the steps of:
Pilling a per~orated container with the ~luent sub~tance, the properties of the fluent 20 substanc~ being such th~t the substance does not ~low by itself through the perforatiQns under normal conditions, and suspending the container in said flow of liquid, In order that the invention and its various other 25 features may be understood more easily, embodiments thereof will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the drawings, wherein:-Fig. 1 is a sectional view along 1-1 in Fig. 2 o~ a 30 rel~ase device according to a first embodiment of the inven~on;
Fig. 2 is a plan view of the device shown in Fig.1;
21032~1~926 AU~~.5, ~~93 96 3a Fig. 3 ic: a side view of a release device ac::cording ~o a second embodiment o~ the invention;
Fig. 4 i~; a detail underneath plan view of th~ cap;
.. .... . .... . . . .
,,' , ' . . , ' ,, ,,' ' , . ',,' . , ;;' ., , . ' ~ " . " .. .. ... .. . . . .
.
W092~20876 '~ ; `' PCTJGB92/00896 member of the device shown in Fig. 3;
Figs. 5 and 6 are perspective views of a third and fourth embodimen~ of the invention;
Fig. 7 is a side elevation of a fifth embodiment of the inventivn;
Fig. 8 is a view in direction 8 in Fig. 7:
, Fig. 9 is a section on ~-9 in Fig. 7; and Fig. 10 is an underneath plan view of a cap comprising a part of the embodiment shown in Fig. 7.
.
The release device sho~l in Fiy. 1 comprises a hook member 10 and a container 20.
The container 20 comprises a cylindrical portion 21 and a trape oid portion 22. In the floor of the trapezoid portion there are a plurality of perforations 23. The diameter of the perforations lies between lmm and 2.4mm.
The container contains a gel 24. The gel may comprise a detergent, a colouring agent, a perfume, a biocide, bleach and/or an insecticide in a suitable carrier substance. Suitable carrier substances are composed of natural gums and a cellulosic gel. The propertie~ of the gel are such that it cannot flow through the perforations under normal conditions of use~
The container is divided by two longitudinal partitions 25~26. The partitions extend adjacent to one another along the length of the container, dividing it intv two compartments 27,28. The partitions are thinner than the walls of the container.
Wat 92/20876 P~/GB~2/00896 21~3249 ~
There is a vent. ( not shown in Figures ) in each compartment 27, 28 to equalise the pressure inside and outside the container. The hook member 10, the container 20, and the partitions 24, 26 are made in a plastics 5 material.
The device is made in two parts. Two mouldings are formed which each correspond to one half of th~ d~3vice wh~n it is bisected by a verltis:al plan~ extending along - 10 the longitudinal axi~
Each moulding is pa tially filled with gel 24 and sealed using a layer of thin plastics sealing mat~rial. 'rhe two halves ~re then welfled together to form the devi~e.
15 The layers of sealing material form the partitions 25, 26 within the container 0.
The release device is configured for use in a lavatory bowl. The davice i~; hung on th~ rim of the bowl by the 20 hook member: 10, above the surface of the water in the bowl.
When the lavatory is f lushed, water runs down the sides of the b~wl and over the device. Some of the wat~r 25 enters the perforations 23 and contacts the gel 24.
This dissolves some of the gel and carries it into the lower part of th~ bowl, wh~re it mixes with the body of water therein. As g~31 that is adjacent to th~
per~orations is dissolve~l, mor~ gel f lows down the 30 con~ain~r to replace it. The gel is prevented from flowing through the perforations by surface tension f orc:es and other properties o$ the f luid such as density and viscosity.
35 The release device is configured so that the size of the WO 92/20X76 , PCI /GB92/00896 2103'~49 6 perforations creates a surfac::e tension force that is su~icient ~o preven~ the gel in the container flowing through the perf orations under the ef f ect of gravity .
5 ~xample A prototype of the devic:e having 2 . 4 mm diameter perf orations and containing a proprietary brand of shower gel, was found to distribute the gel into f lowing 10 water at a steady rate over an extended period.
The device has the advantage that it discharges substantially the same amount of gel 24 into the water with every f lllsh until the g~l is exhausted . The device 15 is simple and cheap to prc: duce with standard machinery .
The two part cvnstruction of the device makes it easier to f ill th~ conta~ ner with the viscous gel, as it is difficlllt to fill the container through small apertures.
The shape of the device ensures that. it does not protrude excessively into the bowl.
In a modif ication of the f irst embodiment of the 25 invention each compartment 27, 28 contains a differen~
gel . In another modif ication, the partitions extend trarlsversely of the device.
In a.~ further modification the container is form~d as a 30 single compartment. The container is filled with gel through the perforation6 . The container is f illed under pressure to enable gel to enter th~ container. Also, the qel may be warmed to reduce it:5 viscosity. The device can be ref illed when it is empty .
W092/20X76 PCr/GB92/00~96 21~32~9 ig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the invention. The container is formed as a single comp~rtment. The lower part of the container 30 has a sin~le opening therein.
A removable cap 31 fits over the opening to contain the liquid. The cap contains perforations 32 through which water can contact the gel.
The cap 31 allows the container to be easily filled. A
range of caps with different sized per~orations can be pro~ided for use with a single container.
A further cap can be provided that fits o~er the perforated cap 31 to seal the container when it is not ln u~e.
Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment sf the invention. The container wholly comprises a cylinder with an elliptical cross-section. Rows of perforations ~designated 40 but not shown in ~ig. 5) are arranged along the lower part of container.
The shape of the container ensures a relatively streamlined flow over the container. ~his reduces the incidence of dead spots adjacent to the perforations, and enhances mass transfer.
A number of modifications can be made to all of the e~bod~ments of the invenkion. The container can be curved along its longitudinal axis so that the curvature of the container matches the shape of the lavatory pan.
A closable opening can be provided in the upper par~ of the container to allow the container to be filled or refilled more easily.
WOg2/20876 PCT/~92/0089~
21~32~9 8 .
The device can be suspended in the cistern of the lavatory.
In addition to, or instead of, the above-described perforations, one or more perforations can be provided in the sides of the container~
The shape of the con~ainer can be varied to suit the application for th~ device. Fig 6~ ~hows an alternative configuration of device~ Alternatively, the container can comprise a cylinder which is su~p~nded vertically.
Further, a conventional bottle shape may be employed.
Figs. 7 to 10 show a fifth embodiment of the invention.
The contalner 50 comprises a tank 51 having flanges 52, 53 at its top and bottom. A hole 54 allows the device to be suspended in a lavatory7 Decorative markings ~5 are a~plied to the outside of the tank.
The device is closed by a threaded cap 60. The roof of the cap contains three per~orations 61. Each perforation is formed in the floor of a tapered circular inset 62 in the roof of the cap. The thickness of the cap at the perforation 61 (i.e. the length of perforation) is preselected to match the properties of the gel to be distributed. A downwardly directed ring 63 forms a seal between the cap and the neck of the tank. Three grooves 64 are formed in the periphery of the cap~
Prior to use the d~vice is sealed by an overcap 70.
This has resiliently deformable keys 71 which engage the grooves 64 in the cap 60. Nipples 73 on the overcap seal the perforations 61.
The perforations 23 can be replaced by capillary or 2 1 0 3 2 4 9 f~~ 9 ~
porous wall sections. This allows the surface tension of the gel inside the container to be reduced. The porous wall ~ections can be made from a semipermeable membrane, a felt, or a suitable ceramic matrial.
The embodiments shown have rigid walle~ containers, but ~lexible walled ~ontainerS can be used. The container can comprise a 1exible, perforated sachet of ~el.
The structure of the outside o~ the con~ainer adjacent to the perforations can be con~igured to produce an area of low pressure on the perfora~ions. This allows some of the gel inside the container to f}ow out of the perforations and increase~ the release rate of ~el into the water.
.
A~ter filling, ~ut before use, the device can be sealed by a tear-of foi.l or plastics strip, stuck over the per~orations. A snap-off strip may also be used.
It is emp~asised that the use of the device in a lavatory is exemplary only~ The device is suitable for applications in any flowing body of liquid. The flow can be intermittent or continuous.
A particular example of an alternative use is in releasing weed k:iller into waterways. An enlarged release device containing the weed killer in a gel formulation is partially or totally submerged in the upstream section of a canal or river. The device ensures even dosing of the water over a prolon~ed per~'lod.
The d~vice can also be used in an immersed position in 3~
., .... . .._ _.._ ........
... , .. ., .. . . .. . .. " .. ~ .. .. , .. ... . , . . , . . " i , . .
WO 92/20876 ~ rJ PCI ~GBg 2/00896 ~, , ., , ~ ~ . .
21032~9 lO
a closed pipe or condui~. In this case, as the ~el flows out of the container, liquid from the outside f lows in through the vents in the upper part of the - container to fill the container. This forms a pool of 5 liquid above the gel.
The ~luent substance may be one or more o~ the ~ollowing ?.~m f~ ~ ;t O f 21~ 3 2 4 9 2 6 AUGllS~ 199 substances: a detergentO a colouring agent, a perfume, a biocide, bleach, or an insecticide.
According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a release device comprising a container at least paxtially illed with a fluent substance, wherein in use the device is suspended in a liquid to allow substance to leave the container by dissolving into the liquid, charasteri~ed in that the device is for 10 susp~nding in a flow o~ liquid, and in that the container includas one or mor~ per~orations through which the sub~tanc~ doe~ not flow under no~mal conditions o~ us~.
15 According to a third aspec~ of the invention there is provid~d a method of releasing a fluent substance into a ~lo~w o~ liquid, the method comprising the steps of:
Pilling a per~orated container with the ~luent sub~tance, the properties of the fluent 20 substanc~ being such th~t the substance does not ~low by itself through the perforatiQns under normal conditions, and suspending the container in said flow of liquid, In order that the invention and its various other 25 features may be understood more easily, embodiments thereof will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the drawings, wherein:-Fig. 1 is a sectional view along 1-1 in Fig. 2 o~ a 30 rel~ase device according to a first embodiment of the inven~on;
Fig. 2 is a plan view of the device shown in Fig.1;
21032~1~926 AU~~.5, ~~93 96 3a Fig. 3 ic: a side view of a release device ac::cording ~o a second embodiment o~ the invention;
Fig. 4 i~; a detail underneath plan view of th~ cap;
.. .... . .... . . . .
,,' , ' . . , ' ,, ,,' ' , . ',,' . , ;;' ., , . ' ~ " . " .. .. ... .. . . . .
.
W092~20876 '~ ; `' PCTJGB92/00896 member of the device shown in Fig. 3;
Figs. 5 and 6 are perspective views of a third and fourth embodimen~ of the invention;
Fig. 7 is a side elevation of a fifth embodiment of the inventivn;
Fig. 8 is a view in direction 8 in Fig. 7:
, Fig. 9 is a section on ~-9 in Fig. 7; and Fig. 10 is an underneath plan view of a cap comprising a part of the embodiment shown in Fig. 7.
.
The release device sho~l in Fiy. 1 comprises a hook member 10 and a container 20.
The container 20 comprises a cylindrical portion 21 and a trape oid portion 22. In the floor of the trapezoid portion there are a plurality of perforations 23. The diameter of the perforations lies between lmm and 2.4mm.
The container contains a gel 24. The gel may comprise a detergent, a colouring agent, a perfume, a biocide, bleach and/or an insecticide in a suitable carrier substance. Suitable carrier substances are composed of natural gums and a cellulosic gel. The propertie~ of the gel are such that it cannot flow through the perforations under normal conditions of use~
The container is divided by two longitudinal partitions 25~26. The partitions extend adjacent to one another along the length of the container, dividing it intv two compartments 27,28. The partitions are thinner than the walls of the container.
Wat 92/20876 P~/GB~2/00896 21~3249 ~
There is a vent. ( not shown in Figures ) in each compartment 27, 28 to equalise the pressure inside and outside the container. The hook member 10, the container 20, and the partitions 24, 26 are made in a plastics 5 material.
The device is made in two parts. Two mouldings are formed which each correspond to one half of th~ d~3vice wh~n it is bisected by a verltis:al plan~ extending along - 10 the longitudinal axi~
Each moulding is pa tially filled with gel 24 and sealed using a layer of thin plastics sealing mat~rial. 'rhe two halves ~re then welfled together to form the devi~e.
15 The layers of sealing material form the partitions 25, 26 within the container 0.
The release device is configured for use in a lavatory bowl. The davice i~; hung on th~ rim of the bowl by the 20 hook member: 10, above the surface of the water in the bowl.
When the lavatory is f lushed, water runs down the sides of the b~wl and over the device. Some of the wat~r 25 enters the perforations 23 and contacts the gel 24.
This dissolves some of the gel and carries it into the lower part of th~ bowl, wh~re it mixes with the body of water therein. As g~31 that is adjacent to th~
per~orations is dissolve~l, mor~ gel f lows down the 30 con~ain~r to replace it. The gel is prevented from flowing through the perforations by surface tension f orc:es and other properties o$ the f luid such as density and viscosity.
35 The release device is configured so that the size of the WO 92/20X76 , PCI /GB92/00896 2103'~49 6 perforations creates a surfac::e tension force that is su~icient ~o preven~ the gel in the container flowing through the perf orations under the ef f ect of gravity .
5 ~xample A prototype of the devic:e having 2 . 4 mm diameter perf orations and containing a proprietary brand of shower gel, was found to distribute the gel into f lowing 10 water at a steady rate over an extended period.
The device has the advantage that it discharges substantially the same amount of gel 24 into the water with every f lllsh until the g~l is exhausted . The device 15 is simple and cheap to prc: duce with standard machinery .
The two part cvnstruction of the device makes it easier to f ill th~ conta~ ner with the viscous gel, as it is difficlllt to fill the container through small apertures.
The shape of the device ensures that. it does not protrude excessively into the bowl.
In a modif ication of the f irst embodiment of the 25 invention each compartment 27, 28 contains a differen~
gel . In another modif ication, the partitions extend trarlsversely of the device.
In a.~ further modification the container is form~d as a 30 single compartment. The container is filled with gel through the perforation6 . The container is f illed under pressure to enable gel to enter th~ container. Also, the qel may be warmed to reduce it:5 viscosity. The device can be ref illed when it is empty .
W092/20X76 PCr/GB92/00~96 21~32~9 ig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the invention. The container is formed as a single comp~rtment. The lower part of the container 30 has a sin~le opening therein.
A removable cap 31 fits over the opening to contain the liquid. The cap contains perforations 32 through which water can contact the gel.
The cap 31 allows the container to be easily filled. A
range of caps with different sized per~orations can be pro~ided for use with a single container.
A further cap can be provided that fits o~er the perforated cap 31 to seal the container when it is not ln u~e.
Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment sf the invention. The container wholly comprises a cylinder with an elliptical cross-section. Rows of perforations ~designated 40 but not shown in ~ig. 5) are arranged along the lower part of container.
The shape of the container ensures a relatively streamlined flow over the container. ~his reduces the incidence of dead spots adjacent to the perforations, and enhances mass transfer.
A number of modifications can be made to all of the e~bod~ments of the invenkion. The container can be curved along its longitudinal axis so that the curvature of the container matches the shape of the lavatory pan.
A closable opening can be provided in the upper par~ of the container to allow the container to be filled or refilled more easily.
WOg2/20876 PCT/~92/0089~
21~32~9 8 .
The device can be suspended in the cistern of the lavatory.
In addition to, or instead of, the above-described perforations, one or more perforations can be provided in the sides of the container~
The shape of the con~ainer can be varied to suit the application for th~ device. Fig 6~ ~hows an alternative configuration of device~ Alternatively, the container can comprise a cylinder which is su~p~nded vertically.
Further, a conventional bottle shape may be employed.
Figs. 7 to 10 show a fifth embodiment of the invention.
The contalner 50 comprises a tank 51 having flanges 52, 53 at its top and bottom. A hole 54 allows the device to be suspended in a lavatory7 Decorative markings ~5 are a~plied to the outside of the tank.
The device is closed by a threaded cap 60. The roof of the cap contains three per~orations 61. Each perforation is formed in the floor of a tapered circular inset 62 in the roof of the cap. The thickness of the cap at the perforation 61 (i.e. the length of perforation) is preselected to match the properties of the gel to be distributed. A downwardly directed ring 63 forms a seal between the cap and the neck of the tank. Three grooves 64 are formed in the periphery of the cap~
Prior to use the d~vice is sealed by an overcap 70.
This has resiliently deformable keys 71 which engage the grooves 64 in the cap 60. Nipples 73 on the overcap seal the perforations 61.
The perforations 23 can be replaced by capillary or 2 1 0 3 2 4 9 f~~ 9 ~
porous wall sections. This allows the surface tension of the gel inside the container to be reduced. The porous wall ~ections can be made from a semipermeable membrane, a felt, or a suitable ceramic matrial.
The embodiments shown have rigid walle~ containers, but ~lexible walled ~ontainerS can be used. The container can comprise a 1exible, perforated sachet of ~el.
The structure of the outside o~ the con~ainer adjacent to the perforations can be con~igured to produce an area of low pressure on the perfora~ions. This allows some of the gel inside the container to f}ow out of the perforations and increase~ the release rate of ~el into the water.
.
A~ter filling, ~ut before use, the device can be sealed by a tear-of foi.l or plastics strip, stuck over the per~orations. A snap-off strip may also be used.
It is emp~asised that the use of the device in a lavatory is exemplary only~ The device is suitable for applications in any flowing body of liquid. The flow can be intermittent or continuous.
A particular example of an alternative use is in releasing weed k:iller into waterways. An enlarged release device containing the weed killer in a gel formulation is partially or totally submerged in the upstream section of a canal or river. The device ensures even dosing of the water over a prolon~ed per~'lod.
The d~vice can also be used in an immersed position in 3~
., .... . .._ _.._ ........
... , .. ., .. . . .. . .. " .. ~ .. .. , .. ... . , . . , . . " i , . .
WO 92/20876 ~ rJ PCI ~GBg 2/00896 ~, , ., , ~ ~ . .
21032~9 lO
a closed pipe or condui~. In this case, as the ~el flows out of the container, liquid from the outside f lows in through the vents in the upper part of the - container to fill the container. This forms a pool of 5 liquid above the gel.
Claims (11)
1. A release device comprising a container (20;30;50) at least partially filled with a fluent substance (24), wherein in use the device is suspended in a liquid to allow substance to leave the container by dissolving into the liquid, characterised in that the container is for suspending in a flow of liquid in a lavatory pan, and includes one or more perforations (23;32;61) through which the substance does not flow under normal conditions of use.
2. A release device according to claim 1, further comprising suspension means (10) to suspend the device in the lavatory pan and the perforations are arranged opposite the suspension means.
3. A release device according to claim 1, wherein the container ( 20 ) is divided by two partitions (25,26) extending longitudinally therethrough.
6. A release device according to claim 1, wherein the perforations (23) are arranged in a substantially rectangular wall forming part of the container (20), formed in the lower part thereof.
5. A release device according to claim 1, wherein the perforations (32) can be formed in a cap (31) which closes an opening in said container.
6. A release device according to claim 1, wherein attachable closure means are provided to close the perforations (23;32;61).
7. A release device according to claim 7, wherein the closure means may comprise a tear of for snap-off strip.
8. A release device according to claim 2, wherein the device has means to hang from the rim of the lavatory pan and rest against the bowl thereof.
9. A release device according to claim 1, wherein the fluent substance comprises one or more of the following:
a detergent, a colouring agent, a perfume, a biocide, bleach or an insecticide.
a detergent, a colouring agent, a perfume, a biocide, bleach or an insecticide.
10. A release device comprising a container (20,30;50) at least partially filled with a fluent substance (24), wherein in use the device is suspended in a liquid to allow substance to leave the container by dissolving into the liquid, characterised in that the device is for suspending in a flow of liquid, and in that the container includes one or more perforations (23;32;61) through which the substance does not flow under normal conditions of use.
11. A method of releasing a fluent substance into a flow of liquid, the method comprising the steps of:
filing a perforated container (20;30;50) with the fluent substance, the properties of the fluent substance being such that the substance does not flow by itself through the perforations (23;32;61) under normal conditions of use, and suspending the container in said flow of liquid.
filing a perforated container (20;30;50) with the fluent substance, the properties of the fluent substance being such that the substance does not flow by itself through the perforations (23;32;61) under normal conditions of use, and suspending the container in said flow of liquid.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB9110746.6 | 1991-05-17 | ||
| GB919110746A GB9110746D0 (en) | 1991-05-17 | 1991-05-17 | Release device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2103249A1 true CA2103249A1 (en) | 1992-11-18 |
Family
ID=10695195
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2103249 Abandoned CA2103249A1 (en) | 1991-05-17 | 1992-05-18 | Release device |
Country Status (8)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0584172A1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH07503767A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU1789792A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2103249A1 (en) |
| FI (1) | FI935079A (en) |
| GB (1) | GB9110746D0 (en) |
| NO (1) | NO934143D0 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1992020876A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (13)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE19520145C2 (en) * | 1995-06-01 | 2003-06-05 | Henkel Kgaa | Toilet basket for liquid or pasty active ingredient preparations |
| EP1046756A1 (en) * | 1999-04-19 | 2000-10-25 | Manitoba Italia S.p.A. | Automatic dispenser, particularly for detergent and deodorant liquid for toilet bowls |
| GB2368576A (en) * | 2000-11-02 | 2002-05-08 | Brian Parry Slade | Liquid delivery device having a layer of textile material |
| EP1203844A1 (en) * | 2000-11-03 | 2002-05-08 | Brian Slade | Liquid dosing devices |
| DE20116963U1 (en) | 2000-11-17 | 2002-03-28 | Henkel KGaA, 40589 Düsseldorf | Dispenser for dispensing active fluids |
| DE10164866B4 (en) | 2000-11-17 | 2007-06-14 | Henkel Kgaa | Dispensing device for dispensing active fluids into the rinsing fluid in a toilet bowl |
| GB0123250D0 (en) * | 2001-09-27 | 2001-11-21 | Globol Chem Uk Ltd | A dispenser |
| DE10204928B4 (en) | 2002-02-07 | 2004-04-01 | Henkel Kgaa | Dispensing device for dispensing an active fluid into the flushing liquid in a toilet bowl |
| EP1483456A1 (en) * | 2002-03-12 | 2004-12-08 | Robert McBride Ltd | Dispenser |
| GB2401791A (en) * | 2003-05-23 | 2004-11-24 | Reckitt Benckiser Inc | Fragrance device |
| GB2416301A (en) * | 2004-07-22 | 2006-01-25 | Arran Bawn | A bubble maker |
| NL1032616C1 (en) * | 2006-10-03 | 2008-04-04 | Nicolette De Vries | Dosing devices. |
| ES2376055T3 (en) * | 2008-03-25 | 2012-03-08 | The Procter & Gamble Company | DISPENSING UNIT. |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB1053293A (en) * | 1900-01-01 | |||
| GB1069213A (en) * | 1963-05-28 | 1967-05-17 | Calmic Ltd | Improvements in or relating to the maintenance of urinals, water-closet basins and the like conveniences |
| US3945060A (en) * | 1974-10-03 | 1976-03-23 | The Climalene Company | Liquid dispensing bottle-hanger construction |
| DE2624163C3 (en) * | 1976-05-29 | 1981-08-27 | Cillichemie Ernst Vogelmann Gmbh & Co, 7100 Heilbronn | Method for disinfecting and cleaning a sanitary installation and device for carrying out the method |
| US4512041A (en) * | 1983-10-18 | 1985-04-23 | Tsai Tseng B | Dispensing device |
| DE3762437D1 (en) * | 1986-11-03 | 1990-05-31 | Tristan Bavaveas | CONTAINER FOR DOSING TREATMENT LIQUID. |
-
1991
- 1991-05-17 GB GB919110746A patent/GB9110746D0/en active Pending
-
1992
- 1992-05-18 EP EP19920910401 patent/EP0584172A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1992-05-18 CA CA 2103249 patent/CA2103249A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1992-05-18 AU AU17897/92A patent/AU1789792A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1992-05-18 JP JP4510490A patent/JPH07503767A/en active Pending
- 1992-05-18 WO PCT/GB1992/000896 patent/WO1992020876A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
1993
- 1993-11-16 NO NO934143A patent/NO934143D0/en unknown
- 1993-11-16 FI FI935079A patent/FI935079A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| FI935079A (en) | 1993-11-18 |
| WO1992020876A1 (en) | 1992-11-26 |
| NO934143L (en) | 1993-11-16 |
| AU1789792A (en) | 1992-12-30 |
| FI935079A0 (en) | 1993-11-16 |
| EP0584172A1 (en) | 1994-03-02 |
| GB9110746D0 (en) | 1991-07-10 |
| NO934143D0 (en) | 1993-11-16 |
| JPH07503767A (en) | 1995-04-20 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |