CN214362315U - Laundry product quantitative feeding device and storage box containing laundry product - Google Patents

Abstract

A laundry product dosing device (1) for placement in the drum of a washing machine, the device comprising a sensor and a processor in electronic communication and being configured to receive at least two laundry products such that the laundry products are isolated, each laundry product being sealable within the device by a valve which is openable upon receipt of a signal generated by the processor to dispense a laundry product, wherein the device comprises a plurality of chambers comprising cooperating means configured to engage with complementary cooperating means on a reservoir cartridge such that, in position, the reservoir cartridge is securely held within the chamber and laundry products within the reservoir cartridge are contained or released in dependence on the valve of the device being in a closed or open state, wherein the valve is an electrically operated or pressure valve. Also disclosed are cartridges (7a,7b,7c,7d) containing laundry products suitable for use in the device.

Description

Laundry product quantitative feeding device and storage box containing laundry product

Technical Field

The invention relates to a laundry product dosing device for placement in a washing machine drum. The device is configured to contain at least two laundry products such that the first laundry product is isolated from the second laundry product in the device. The invention further relates to a laundry product dosing device wherein the device is configured to dispense two doses of laundry liquid independently. The invention further relates to a method for washing items in an automatic washing machine using said device. The invention further relates to a method of washing articles when the laundry products are sequentially released. The invention further relates to a magazine containing laundry products.

Background

In developed and developing countries, washing machines are used to wash articles, such as clothes and household linen. Laundry products (including detergents and common fabric conditioners) are added to the wash. In some cases, the product is added through a drawer in the washing machine. In other cases, the product is added directly to the drum. In the simplest case, this may be spreading a sheet of laundry detergent over the items to be washed before the start of the wash cycle. However, it is more common to introduce the liquid detergent into the drum via dosing balls. Dosing balls are typically small plastic containers into which a measured amount of liquid detergent product is poured by the consumer. Dosing balls are an effective way to introduce laundry products (e.g. detergents) into the wash: since the product is already in the drum, the entire product is used. Furthermore, when product is added via the drawer, residue may remain after washing. These can "stay" in further washing and can cause build up of stickies in drawers and ducts.

The formulation of liquid laundry products presents certain challenges. In particular, the balance and ratio of ingredients must be carefully selected to ensure a stable formulation. This limits the relative ratios of certain ingredients. Furthermore, the ingredients in the liquid composition are capable of interacting with each other, and thus may react with each other. This can affect the short and long term stability of the liquid laundry composition and preclude the use of certain combinations of ingredients.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention seeks to solve some of the problems associated with conventional dosing balls and automatic washing machine drawers. The invention relates to a quantitative feeding device for laundry products, which can be sealed by a valve. Thus, in contrast to prior art dosing balls, the laundry product dosing device of the present invention, when placed inside the drum of a washing machine, seals the laundry product in the device within the device. The device has a sensor that detects a condition within the washing machine drum (i.e., a condition experienced by the device). This information enables the device to generate a signal that causes the laundry product to be dispensed. By using multiple chambers, segregated laundry products may be dispensed simultaneously and/or segregated laundry products may be dispensed sequentially.

This provides an advantage over prior art dosing balls. The conventionally used dosing ball dispenses its entire contents in the first phase of the wash cycle when the dosing ball is first tumbled or submerged in water. In contrast, the device and method of the present invention enable sequential dosing at multiple points throughout the wash cycle based on the device's determination of the conditions inside the drum.

Since the device enables the laundry liquid to be isolated prior to dispensing, greater flexibility in the combination of ingredients and their relative ratios for constituting the washing liquid can be achieved: it is not necessary to formulate all of the ingredients in a single product.

Furthermore, since the laundry product in the device of the present invention is sealed when it is placed in the wash, children and pets do not come into contact with it. Potential access is a particular concern in situations where the laundry load is prepared in a washing machine, but the cycle has not yet started for any of a variety of reasons. Laundry products can be harmful if ingested, exposed to prolonged skin contact, or to mucosal membranes (e.g., eyes). The sealing properties of the device also mean that the risk of damage to the laundry is reduced. With the presently used dosing balls, laundry products may spill when the balls are placed in the drum. This means that concentrated laundry products may contact the item in the absence of water; this is a particular concern if the wash is delayed (e.g. to take advantage of cheaper night-time power) or if it is desired to start the wash after a particular household activity has ended or after the family has left home.

A dosing device in the context of this specification refers to a device for dispensing a quantity of laundry product. In other words, the dosing device may be referred to as a dispensing device.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention relates to a laundry product dosing device for placement in a washing machine, the device having a sensor and at least one chamber for containing laundry product, the chamber being sealable by a valve, wherein the valve is openable upon receipt of a signal.

The sensor obtains a reading of the conditions inside the drum. It will be appreciated that the conditions within the drum will vary depending on whether the washing program is in progress and the phase or cycle at which the washing program is at that point. The following describes the usual cycles and phases in the washing program and typical conditions associated therewith. Typically, the apparatus will comprise a processor. Such a processor is configured to interpret the measurements taken by the sensor and to generate a signal which causes the or each valve to open (e.g. by opening of an electronic valve, or by increasing the pressure of the laundry product).

Accordingly, in a first aspect, the present invention may provide a laundry product dosing device for placement in a drum of a washing machine, the device comprising a sensor and a processor in electronic communication and being configured to receive at least two laundry products such that the laundry products are isolated, each laundry product being sealable within the device by a valve which is openable on receipt of a signal generated by the processor to dispense the laundry product.

Suitably, the device comprises a sensor, a processor and a dispensing device in electronic communication. The, any or each dispensing device may be the valve itself (in other words, the valve may be electronic and open upon receipt of a signal to dispense laundry product) or may be a pressure generating device configured to increase the pressure of the laundry product such that pressure is applied to the valve and the valve opens.

In some cases, the sensor, processor, and valve are in electronic communication and the valve is configured to open upon receipt of a signal.

In other words, the device may be a laundry product dosing device for placement within a drum of a washing machine, the device comprising a sensor, a processor and being configured to receive at least two laundry products such that the laundry products are isolated, each laundry product being sealable within a chamber by a valve, wherein the sensor, processor and valve are in electronic communication, the valve being openable upon receipt of a signal generated by the processor to dispense a laundry product.

In some cases, the apparatus includes a pressure generating device configured to increase the pressure of the laundry product such that pressure is applied to the valve and the valve opens. This may be, for example, a piston device or bellows system which can be spring activated and moved upon receiving a signal from a processor.

In some cases, more than one laundry product is dosed at the same point in the wash program. In other words, in some cases, two or more compositions are dispensed together into the wash liquor. Thus, the device may be configured to dispense two or more compositions simultaneously, for example by sending a suitable "dispense" signal to each dispensing device. This makes it possible to obtain a washing liquid composition in the drum (which is not possible using only a single liquid product). This also enables the activity and benefits of the wash liquor to be adjusted to suit its purpose. For example, in summer the sunscreen may be dispensed simultaneously with the fabric conditioner, while in winter the sunscreen may be omitted.

In some cases, the first laundry product is dispensed at a first time in the washing program and further laundry products are dispensed at a subsequent time in the washing program. For example, in some cases, a first laundry product is dispensed at the beginning of a wash cycle, while further laundry products are dispensed during a rinse cycle at a later time in the wash cycle. Thus, the device may be configured to dispense a first laundry product at a first time in a washing program and further laundry products at a subsequent time in the washing program.

For example, the first laundry product may be a detergent laundry product and may comprise a surfactant and optionally an enzyme. The second laundry product may also be dispensed during the wash cycle, e.g., at substantially the same point in time as the first laundry product. Such a second laundry product may "enhance" the benefit or provide alternative activity (which may be directed to washing) by providing a greater amount of an ingredient such as a surfactant. For example, it may comprise an enzyme.

Further laundry products may be dispensed in the first rinse. As described herein, it may be advantageous to form a wash liquor comprising certain ingredients during the first rinse cycle, thereby extending the benefits beyond the wash cycle.

A further laundry product or yet a further laundry product may be dispensed in a second rinse. Suitable laundry products for dispensing during the second rinse cycle are described herein.

Additionally or alternatively, the apparatus may be configured to dispense the laundry product in a further rinse cycle.

It will be appreciated that the device of the present invention is placed in the washing machine drum before the washing cycle is commenced. It may be placed on top of the items to be washed, as is conventional for dosing balls, or, because the laundry product is sealed in the device at this stage, the device may simply be "gathered together" with the items to be washed and placed in the washing machine. In some cases, the device is suitable for use in a domestic washing machine. Suitably, in some cases, the device is sized to be placed manually within the drum, for example, it may be sized to be placed in the hand of an adult user.

The sensor determines a condition within the washing machine drum. In other words, it may be configured to detect conditions within the drum. The sensor may detect a range of conditions, detect incremental or continuous changes, and feed this information back to the processor, or it may simply operate between two states (a first state and a second state, which may simply be on and off).

It will be appreciated that a variety of sensors may be used to determine conditions within the washing machine drum. The sensor may be selected from, but is not limited to, an accelerometer, a gyrometer (sometimes referred to as a gyroscope), a magnetometer, a thermometer, a microphone, and a conductometer. An accelerometer or gyrometer measures the movement and/or vibration of or within the drum: in detail, the accelerometer measures the vibrations experienced by the device inside the drum, while the gyrometer measures the orientation of the device with respect to gravity and the rotation rate of the device. The microphone may capture a raw sound recording within the drum and/or measure the amount of noise. Naturally, the thermometer measures the temperature inside the drum. The conductivity meter can be used to simultaneously determine the presence of water and determine the ionic content of water. This latter assay can provide an index reading of water hardness (in other words, carbonate and bicarbonate ion content) and the presence of certain laundry product ingredients (such as ionic surfactants). The magnetometer measures the core magnetic field and changes in the magnetic field. This may be used to detect and/or measure the output of a motor in a washing machine.

Preferably, the device comprises a sensor that is an accelerometer or a gyrometer. Without limitation, the inventors have shown that it is desirable to measure the vibration of the drum. This represents a reliable and robust measure for determining the conditions in the washing machine.

Preferably, the device comprises a plurality of sensors. By obtaining a plurality of lead-ins, the processor is able to more accurately determine the condition. The data obtained from each sensor may be considered cumulatively or may be cross referenced. For example, vibrations above a certain threshold in combination with an increasing or substantial water content and/or elevated temperature may indicate a wash cycle or a rinse cycle. Similarly, high vibration (optionally with reduced water content) may indicate a dehydration cycle. It will be appreciated that each sensor may be selected from an accelerometer, a gyrometer, a magnetometer, a thermometer, a microphone and a conductometer. Each sensor in the device may be different, or the device may include more than one particular type of sensor. For example, the device may include two accelerometers, and so on. Multiple sensors may use the same processor.

It will be appreciated that the location of the sensor on or within the device may be determined by the nature of the sensor. For example, it may be preferred that the thermometer or conductivity meter is located outside the device, as here the sensor will optimally contact the liquid in the drum. The device may have one or more channels to allow the inflowing water to reach the sensor, enabling the sensor to be located in a more protected position within the drum shell. Without limitation, accelerometers, gyrometers, magnetometers, and microphones may be provided as part of a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). The printed circuit board may also serve as a processor. Thus, in some cases, the processor is integral with the sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor may be integral with the valve.

Suitably, the apparatus comprises a power source to power at least the processor. The power source may be, for example, a windable mechanism or a battery. Preferably, it is a battery, e.g. a rechargeable battery. In some cases, the device may include a power docking station, enabling the device power source to be charged without removing the power source from the device.

The device is configured to contain a plurality of laundry products, wherein the laundry products are isolated from one another. In this context, the term laundry product includes detergent products, fabric treatment products and compositions comprising one or more ingredients suitable for use in washing articles, as described herein.

In some cases, the device includes a plurality of chambers to which liquid laundry product is added. Each chamber is sealable by a valve. It will be appreciated that laundry product is added to the chamber for use; for example, the exterior of the chamber or a portion of the exterior of the chamber (the chamber wall) may be detachable from the device. For example, a portion of the device may be unscrewed to provide at least two open chambers into which laundry product is poured by the user. Which is fitted with the rest of the device to form said chamber.

The laundry product may also be introduced into the device in the form of a magazine. The magazine may have rigid walls. The magazine may have flexible walls. It will be appreciated that the cartridge may be configured to suit the dispensing device used. The cartridge may be, but is not limited to, a pouch or a rigid plastic container. Each cartridge is securable in the chamber such that the cartridge is sealable by a valve. Suitably, therefore, the chamber comprises cooperating means configured to engage with complementary cooperating means on the cartridge, such that in position the cartridge is securely retained within the chamber and laundry product within the cartridge is contained or released in dependence on whether the valve of the device is in a closed or open state.

In some cases, the first laundry product is a detergent product or booster (boost), which is desirably released before or during the main wash cycle. Thus, the laundry product may be a detergent. The laundry product may be an enhancer, for example, an enzyme composition or an optical brightener. A signal to dispense the detergent or enhancer may be generated by the processor when the processor determines that a wash cycle is in progress. For example and without limitation, the signal may be generated when the conductivity meter detects the first presence of water or a delay of a particular time after the first detection of water. The processor may generate a signal when the magnetometer first measures the output of the motor, when the magnetometer measures the output of the motor above a certain threshold, or at a predetermined time after said measurement. The processor may generate a signal when the thermometer detects that the water is being heated, when the water temperature reaches a certain threshold, or at a certain time interval after said determination. The processor may generate a signal when the sound recording obtained by the microphone may be used to determine water/agitation, or some predetermined time after the determination. The processor may generate a signal when the accelerometer or gyrometer first detects rotation or reciprocation of the drum, when the rotation or reciprocation matches a particular pattern or threshold, or some predetermined time interval after the determination.

In some cases, the further laundry product is a fabric treatment agent, e.g., a fabric conditioner, which is desirably released towards the end of the wash program (e.g., in the last or penultimate rinse). Examples of other fabric treatment agents that may be desirably released later in the washing procedure may include, but are not limited to, UV protectants, perfumes, water repellents and insect repellents.

Thus, in some cases, the further laundry product is a fabric conditioner. In some cases, the laundry product may be a fabric treatment agent selected from UV protectants, perfumes, water repellents and insect repellents. When the processor determines that some set of predetermined conditions has been met, the processor may generate a signal to dispense the product. For example and without limitation, the signal may be generated when the device determines that a first rinse cycle is in progress, a second rinse cycle is in progress, and a third rinse cycle is in progress. It will be appreciated that different machines differ in the number of rinse cycles. It will also be appreciated that a single machine typically provides multiple wash programs which themselves may include different numbers of rinse cycles. To optimize the balance of machine/program compatibility and maximize the benefit of the fabric conditioner or treatment, it is preferred to dispense the product during the second rinse cycle.

Thus, the apparatus (e.g. processor) may comprise means for counting repetitions of a condition, and may be configured to generate a signal in a subsequent instance of certain conditions. In other words, the device (e.g., a processor of the device) may be configured to detect a first rinse cycle, then detect one or more additional rinse cycles, and identify a repeat pattern and number of iterations to generate a signal that causes the valve to open, thereby dispensing the laundry product.

Suitably, the device is reusable. In other words, suitably, the chamber is adapted to be refilled as required. For example, the device may be used in place of a dosing ball, filled before each wash. Alternatively, the device may be configured to last for multiple washes. For example, a first chamber/reservoir may be dispensed in a first wash, while additional chambers/reservoirs are dispensed in further washes. Alternatively or additionally, the or each chamber may be configured to dispense only a portion of the total amount of laundry product contained therein. In this way, the device can be used for multiple cycles without the need for refilling.

Suitably, the device is suitable for domestic use. Suitably, the device is sized and of suitable weight for one-handed use (e.g. it may be held in one hand whilst using the other hand to pour laundry product into the chamber or to assemble the magazine). For example, the device may have a length of less than 20cm, optionally less than 15 cm. The weight of the device may be less than 1kg, for example, less than 750g, less than 500g, or even lighter.

The device exterior may comprise a plastic shell, e.g., a molded plastic shell.

The device may further comprise light, which is suitably visible from the exterior of the device. The light may illuminate to indicate that the device is on, or ready for use in washing. Suitably, the light is in electronic communication with the processor. Preferably, the colour and/or intensity of the light changes (through part or all of the colour spectrum and from off to visible, optionally a change in brightness) in response to a change in sensor reading. In other words, the color and/or intensity of light may be changeable in response to a signal generated by the processor. For example, and without limitation, the light color and/or intensity may change to indicate a stage in a washing program (to indicate a particular cycle or period), to indicate that the or a laundry product has been dispensed, to indicate water temperature, or to alert that the program is nearing completion. Additionally or alternatively, the light color and/or intensity may be configured to indicate that an enhancer or custom selected cartridge has been selected.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a cartridge configured for use with a device according to the first aspect. Suitably, the cartridge comprises a laundry product as described herein. The term laundry product is generally used to refer to any composition as described herein. Thus, it will be understood that the laundry product need not be a detergent product or fabric conditioner, but may be an enzyme or polymer composition or the like.

The reservoir cartridge may be sealed with a frangible membrane that punctures or otherwise ruptures when engaged with the device such that the reservoir cartridge dispenses the product when the valve is opened. The membrane may be a foil or a plastic material, for example.

The cartridges containing different laundry products may be of the same or different sizes.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of washing items in a washing machine, the method comprising

(i) Providing a washing liquid in a drum of a washing machine using at least one laundry product dispensed before or during a wash cycle; then the

(ii) Dispensing further laundry product into the wash liquor at a later time during the wash cycle; and/or

(iii) A wash liquid is provided in a drum of the washing machine using at least one laundry product dispensed during a first rinse cycle.

Suitably, the laundry product in step (i) is dispensed at the start of a wash cycle.

In the present case, a later time during the washing cycle is understood to be a time that is not at the beginning of the washing cycle (in other words, not within the first 2 minutes). The later time may be at least 5 minutes, e.g., at least 7 minutes, at least 10 minutes after the start of the wash cycle.

The later time may correspond to certain conditions, for example, when the wash liquor reaches a particular temperature as described herein.

Suitable compositions (laundry products) for dispensing at a later time during the wash cycle are provided herein.

Suitable compositions for dispensing during the first rinse cycle (laundry products) are provided herein.

The method may further comprise (iv) providing wash liquor in the drum of the washing machine using at least one laundry product dispensed during the second rinse cycle. Suitably, the laundry product or a laundry product is a fabric conditioner.

Suitably, the method uses a device according to the present invention to dispense laundry product directly into the drum.

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of washing an article in a washing machine, the method comprising introducing a laundry product into the or a chamber of a device according to the first aspect, placing the device with the article into the drum of the washing machine; and a washing program is run. Washing in this context refers to both cleaning with e.g. detergent products and other fabric treatments (e.g. conditioning) in a washing machine.

The step of introducing the laundry product may comprise opening the chamber, pouring the liquid laundry product into the chamber and then sealing the chamber.

The step of introducing the laundry product may comprise opening the chamber, fitting a reservoir containing the laundry product to a fitting within the chamber such that the reservoir is sealable by the or a valve, and closing the chamber.

Suitably, more than one laundry product is incorporated. In other words, more than one magazine is introduced. It will be appreciated that the magazine may be selected to suit the type of articles to be washed and the type and extent of the soil.

The washing machine may be a front-loading washing machine or a top-loading washing machine. The washing machine may be a household washing machine or an industrial (e.g., commercial) scale washing machine.

It will be appreciated that all of the preferred and optional features are combinable unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Drawings

The invention will now be described, but not limited, with reference to the following diagrammatic drawings, in which:

fig. 1 shows a device according to the invention with a partially open chamber and four cartridges in place (left side) and a device according to the invention with one cartridge not fitted in the chamber (right side).

Fig. 2 shows data (in x, y and z directions) obtained by an accelerometer sensor in a commercial front opening washing machine (Miele W1714).

Fig. 3 shows data obtained by the gyroscope throughout the front door washing machine program. The cycle of the washing machine program is indicated.

Detailed Description

The device 1 as shown in fig. 1 has a housing which is separable into two parts (a base 2 and a lid 3). The base and lid fit together to form the exterior of the device and define a chamber 4. The exterior of the device is made of a molded plastic material. The device is oval and the rounded shape reduces the risk of damaging the article. Of course, the device may be provided in other shapes, such as a sphere. The device comprises a rubberized bumper portion 5 which protects the device when dropped and reduces the risk of noise and damage during use in the drum. In the arrangement shown, the cushioning portion 5 is shaped to facilitate separation and engagement of the base 2 and lid 3. A shaped recess 6 is provided in the base to assist in handling. It will be appreciated that the arrangement of the relief portion (if present) and the recess portion (if present) may vary. Textured portions may also be provided to improve grip during use.

The chamber 4 accommodates four cartridges 7a,7b,7c and 7 d. Each of these may contain a laundry product prior to use. Suitable laundry products are described herein. For example, 7a may contain a detergent composition, 7b may contain an enzyme composition (enzymes are not always compatible and it is therefore advantageous to provide them in separate cartridges-for example, 7a may include a lipase and 7b a composition may include a protease); 7c may contain a whitening agent, and 7d may contain a fabric conditioner.

The magazine 7 is formed in four segments in cross-section so that they fit closely together in the chamber, thereby maximising space efficiency. Naturally, the shape of the segments will depend on the number of cartridges to be accommodated.

Each magazine as shown in the left hand figure fits into the chamber 4. For clarity, the right side view shows the magazine 7d separated from the chamber housing. In other words, the cartridge is being inserted.

The magazine is mated to the chamber by a complementary mating device (not shown). The chamber bottom includes four valves (not shown). Each valve is provided along a conduit between the chamber and the exterior of the device.

Each magazine cooperates with the chamber fitting apparatus such that it is sealable by a valve. At this stage, each valve is in its closed state. Suitable mating devices will be apparent to those skilled in the art, but include a push-lock assembly (e.g., the chamber may include a recess into which a portion of the reservoir is tightly inserted) -an edge or other protrusion may be provided to create audible or tactile feedback.

The magazine has an aperture frangibly sealed with a foil membrane or the like. This membrane ruptures when the cartridge is mated with the device. The corresponding valve then seals the reservoir.

Thus, for use, the user selects the appropriate magazine for the article and the degree and nature of the soil, inserts it into the chamber as described, and re-covers the lid 3. The device is then placed into the drum with the article. The washing procedure may be started immediately, or may be delayed.

The device comprises at least one sensor and a processor located in the base 2. The device further comprises a power source, for example a battery, which may be conventional, disposable, or rechargeable. At the beginning of the wash cycle, the sensors collect data about the conditions in the drum. These data are transmitted to the processor. The processor is programmed to open each valve (by sending a "dispense" signal to the valve) under certain predetermined conditions, which may include assessing repetition of certain conditions (e.g., detecting a second rinse cycle). When the valve is opened, the contents of the cartridge are dispensed into the water/wash liquor.

Variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, in further embodiments, the valve is not electronically controlled. Alternatively, it is a non-drip irrigation valve (non-drip valve), for example, a non-drip irrigation silicone valve. The apparatus includes a pressure generating device configured to increase the pressure of the laundry product such that pressure is applied to the valve and the valve opens. For example, the device may comprise a bellows or a piston.

It will also be appreciated that options and preferences regarding the devices described herein may apply to the methods described herein, and vice versa, except where such combinations are expressly excluded.

Isolation-laundry product ingredient

The present invention enables the isolation of the individual components of a laundry product in different compositions. This isolation provides at least the following advantages over conventional dosing balls (as currently used) containing a single liquid laundry product:

1. different ingredients or combinations of ingredients may be added at different times during the washing procedure.

2. Incompatible ingredients may be stored separately and combined only in the wash liquor, or even dosed at different stages of the wash procedure. Exemplary incompatible combinations of ingredients are described herein.

3. Relative ingredient ratios outside the normal limits of stability of liquid laundry compositions may be used.

Naturally, it will be appreciated that the same composition, and in fact the same ratio of compositions, may be present in different chambers. Therefore, the present invention can further provide the following advantages:

4. the same ingredient or combination of ingredients may be repeatedly dosed (two or even more times) as the washing procedure proceeds.

For example, a first chamber may be used to contain a detergent composition comprising an enzyme (e.g., a lipase), while a second chamber may contain a further composition comprising a lipase. Advantageously, the first composition may be dosed before or during the wash cycle, while the second composition comprising lipase may be dosed later during the wash cycle, or even during the first rinse cycle, to "complement" the enzyme activity and improve wash performance. It will be appreciated that other suitable enzymes may be used, for example lipases, proteases, amylases, mannanases, cellulases and pectate lyases. Additionally or alternatively, other ingredients may be complemented. Suitably, the second composition does not foam if dispensed during the rinse cycle. Thus, suitable second compositions comprise less surfactant than the first composition by total weight of surfactant, and may comprise little or no surfactant.

The present invention allows different compositions to be dispensed at different times during the wash program. This allows for dosing of a fabric treatment composition such as a fabric softener, perfume, sunscreen, brightener or insect repellent during the rinse cycle (e.g. the second rinse cycle). Other suitable compositions will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Certain ingredients lose efficacy when combined or are incompatible when stored in a single liquid composition. For example, proteases and lipases generally cannot be combined in a single liquid composition because proteases can digest lipases upon storage. Similarly, proteases can digest cellulases when stored in a liquid. However, lipases provide superior benefits in terms of fat elimination, while cellulases give improved fabric treatment and colour retention and pellet removal (pill removal) and/or background whiteness benefits (depending on the cellulase used).

Using the devices and methods of the present invention, a first composition comprising a protease may be provided in one chamber and/or reservoir, while a second composition comprising a lipase and/or a cellulase may be provided in a second, separate chamber and/or reservoir. These compositions may themselves be introduced into the device in the form of a sealed cartridge. The composition can be released simultaneously into the wash so that the wash liquor benefits from the advantages of protease and lipase and/or cellulase activity, giving broad stain removal and/or better background whiteness on white fabrics and/or better garment and color care by pellet and fibril removal/prevention (depending on the enzyme selected). Either or both compositions may contain a detergent component in addition to other conventional liquid laundry ingredients such as perfumes, builders, chelants and the like. Similarly, for soil and/or oil stains, it may be desirable to include a soil release polymer. In a single liquid laundry composition, the lipase destroys the soil release polymer upon storage. The isolation of ingredients as provided herein enables the benefits resulting from two or all of these ingredients to be obtained in a single wash.

Other combinations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

It will also be appreciated that the isolation as provided herein allows for the adjustment of the wash liquor composition to suit the fabric type and stain. For example, the laundry product may be a "standard" liquid laundry composition comprising a detergent and optionally an enzyme. The second laundry product (which may be released simultaneously with the first laundry product or at different points in the wash program) may comprise a composition specifically selected for stains. For example, if the article to be laundered has a soil and/or oily stain, the second composition may be selected to include a soil release polymer. The second composition comprising lipase may be selected to improve stain removal if the item to be washed is soiled with a greasy stain. For example, if the article to be laundered comprises a fabric susceptible to pilling, a second laundry composition comprising a garment care cellulase may be selected. It will be appreciated that the apparatus and method of the present invention further envisages third and fourth laundry liquids such that 2, 3, 4 or more isolated compositions may be released during the wash program, even at the start of the wash cycle. For example, at the beginning of a wash cycle, the device may dispense three compositions: detergent formulations, lipase compositions and soil release polymer compositions.

Liquid laundry compositions are typically provided as a predominantly single phase liquid, with certain viscosities shown to be desirable to the consumer. To provide such a substantially single phase liquid, it is necessary to function within certain parameters of the relative ratio amounts at the time of formulation of the product. Applicants have observed a significant benefit of adding additional chelant to the wash cycle beyond and above the amount typically accepted in laundry formulations. The devices and methods of the present invention enable the use of larger amounts of chelating agent by providing all or additional chelating agent in separate chambers and/or reservoirs that are released along with the "standard composition". Furthermore, applicants have observed that the significant benefit of higher chelant content increases at lower pH. It will be appreciated that the present invention allows for the provision of a plurality of liquid compositions for storage and release into a wash liquor, each having a different pH. The invention also enables the buffer of the wash liquor to adjust the pH during the wash to increase the benefit.

Sequential feeding

It will be appreciated that certain laundry products should be dosed at different points in the wash cycle; detergent compositions are typically used to form the wash liquor during the wash cycle, while fabric softener is fed into the final rinse cycle via the washing machine drawer. The device of the present invention can be used to dispense different liquid laundry products at different points in the washing program. Thus, the device may be configured to dispense the contents of the first chamber (which may be a detergent composition) before or during a wash cycle and to dispense the contents of the further chamber (which may be a fabric softening composition) during a rinse cycle (e.g. a second rinse cycle). As described above, the contents of more than one chamber may be dispensed simultaneously.

However, the device of the present invention provides further advantages. It will be appreciated that the apparatus may be configured to use information from the sensor to determine the current stage of the washing program. A signal to dispense one or more laundry liquids may be generated when a particular condition is detected. The device thus allows for the addition of compositions at points in the washing program that are currently not achievable with conventional washing machines.

Using the device, various ingredients can be dosed at optimal points in the wash program to improve one or more of stain removal, background fabric whiteness on white fabrics, fragrance retention, wash program length, water consumption, water temperature, and ingredient compatibility. For example, the amount of a particular ingredient or combination of ingredients of the wash liquor during a wash cycle may be partially "replenished" throughout the wash cycle to enhance efficacy. A component may also be dosed in conformity with appropriate environmental conditions, such as pH or temperature. For example, a composition comprising a bleaching agent may be dosed into a wash cycle when the wash liquor is at least 35 ℃, e.g., about 40 ℃. Bleaching agents can be more active at these elevated temperatures and therefore give more benefits.

The device also allows dosing regimens to be implemented using rinse cycles other than the penultimate rinse cycle (as is conventionally implemented via a washing machine drawer). In this way, additional ingredients, suitably those that do not foam, can be dosed during the first rinse cycle to ensure effective rinsing, thereby effectively extending the effective wash period of the program. It will be appreciated that the environmental conditions may also be different during the rinse cycle. For example, the buffer may also be released to adjust the pH.

Dosing before or during wash cycle

It is desirable to dispense certain ingredients at or very near the beginning of the wash cycle. This maximizes the cleaning performance of the wash cycle. Suitably, the device and method of the present invention dispenses or is configured to dispense a surfactant-containing composition at the start of a wash cycle. This composition may be referred to as a "detergent composition" or first composition. The surfactant may be anionic, fatty acid, nonionic or zwitterionic, and may include a combination of surfactants. The surfactant content may include a cationic surfactant. The composition suitably comprises a builder, for example sodium carbonate, sodium citrate or a polymer Sokalan CP5 type system. It will be appreciated that other ingredients may be included (including, but not limited to, enzymes, bleaches, chelants, fluorescers, shading dyes and pigments, soil release polymers, anti-redeposition polymers, DTI polymers, photobleaches, and perfumes).

The skilled person will appreciate that such a detergent composition may comprise all ingredients to perform a normal wash cycle.

The skilled artisan will recognize that two or more isolated compositions may be dispensed at this stage, as described herein.

Dosing during the first rinse cycle

The following non-limiting examples of compositions that can be dispensed in the first rinse cycle are provided. It will be appreciated that the ingredients may be dispensed during both the wash cycle and the first rinse cycle, or may be dispensed only in the first rinse cycle.

In some cases, the composition comprising lipase is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This provides a number of advantages. This separates the lipase from any protease in the wash liquor. Lipases work better at lower surfactant concentrations and are therefore more effective in the rinse cycle when the surfactants that can be used in the main wash have been substantially removed during the drainage and dewatering process. In addition, lipases can function better in the presence of ionic surfactants such as linear alkyl benzene sulfonic acid (LAS) than in the presence of nonionic surfactants. In some cases, a composition comprising a lipase and an ionic surfactant, such as LAS, is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. It will be appreciated that the amount of surfactant may be lower than the amount that will be used in the wash cycle.

Lipases may also be more effective at higher pH. For example, it may be advantageous to use a lipase at a pH greater than pH 7, suitably greater than pH 8, e.g., about pH 8.5, about pH 9, about pH 9.5 or even about pH 10 or higher. Thus, in some cases, the lipase containing composition is dispensed during the first rinse cycle together with a buffer suitable to raise the pH as described. The buffering agent may be provided with the composition or as a separate composition. In other words, the device enables the use of active wash solutions (i.e., solutions of the added ingredients) at different pH's for different stages of washing.

In some cases, the composition comprising bleach is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This can be used to achieve improved bleaching efficacy. The bleach is consumed by catalase, which accumulates on the garment during normal wear. The catalase is at least partially, if not substantially, removed during the wash cycle.

In some cases, chelating agents such as

A composition of one of the families was dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This may improve stain removal, for example by extending the chelant activity from the wash cycle to the first rinse cycle.

In some cases, the composition comprising the Soil Release Polymer (SRP) is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This can improve stain removal, for example, by extending the time of polymer deposition from during the wash cycle to the wash cycle plus the first rinse cycle. Due to the mode of action of the soil release polymer, the residual layer on the article may improve subsequent (post-wash) soil removal in further washing.

In some cases, the composition comprising the anti-redeposition polymer is dispensed during the first rinse cycle.

In some cases, the composition comprising a Dye Transfer Inhibitor (DTI) polymer is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. Examples of DTI polymers include PVP, PVPI, and PVPNO. It will be appreciated that some surfactant may be required to stabilize the DTI polymer. Thus, in some cases, the composition comprising DTI and surfactant is dispensed during the first wash cycle. It will be appreciated that the amount of surfactant may be lower than the amount that will be used in the wash cycle.

In some cases, the builder-containing composition is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This can extend the builder activity from the wash cycle to the first rinse cycle and can increase the background whiteness benefit on the fabric.

In some cases, the composition comprising the carboxysiloxane is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. Polymers such as LR400 can be included.

In some cases, the composition comprising the photo-bleach is dispensed during the first rinse cycle.

It will be appreciated that a single composition may comprise more than one ingredient as described herein.

Additionally or alternatively, it may also be advantageous to dispense any of the above ingredients in a rinse cycle other than the first rinse cycle (e.g., in the second rinse cycle or in both the first and second rinse cycles).

For example, it may be advantageous to dispense builder during the second rinse cycle. Indeed, in some cases, the builder-containing composition dispenses each time water is added and/or any ingredients are dispensed. This helps to prevent calcium bridging of soil to the textile.

Dosing in later rinse cycles

Some ingredients are preferably dosed later in the washing procedure so that they remain at least partially on the fabric. Examples are described herein. Such ingredients may be dosed during the second/final rinse cycle. It will be appreciated that a final rinse cycle may be preferred for these ingredients. However, it is often sufficient to add such ingredients only during the second cycle, even with a further rinse cycle thereafter.

For multi-dose devices, a suitable composition may be dosed during each rinse cycle to ensure maximum retention on the fabric. This is advantageous because different washing machines and indeed different cycles on the same washing machine may use different numbers of rinse cycles. This ensures that the appropriate product is dosed during the final rinse cycle without the use of a washing machine drawer, with associated disadvantages. For completeness, it should be noted that it is generally sufficient to add these ingredients only during the second rinse.

Operating sensor

The following data shows how the sensors located in the device according to the invention collect data and process the data to generate the "dispense" signal.

In one example, a sensor that measures acceleration relative to gravity is used to measure conditions within a commercial front opening washer. Fig. 2 shows data (in x, y and z directions) obtained by an accelerometer sensor in a commercial front opening washing machine (Miele W1714). The sensor was contained within a protective sheath and used for a model wash load of 1.5kg fabric total. Once the sensor was placed in the washing machine and the wash cycle was started (30 ℃ cotton fabric cycle), the data distribution shown was collected over the first two minutes. The pattern and value of the signal measured by the sensor and processor can be used to determine that a cycle has begun and that the resulting "dispense" signal enables the appropriate wash product to be dispensed.

In a further example, a gyroscope is used to measure conditions in a front opening washing machine (fig. 3). The relevant cycles and phases of the program are indicated. As can be seen from the figure, each stage has a different measurement signal pattern that is easily detectable for the device. The program starts with a wash cycle. As mentioned above, the device can interpret this as the start of a wash cycle; a "dispense" is created to enable dispensing of the appropriate cleaning composition. Optionally, one or more additional suitable wash compositions may be dispensed after a predetermined period of time in the wash cycle. As can be seen from fig. 3, the first rinsing session and each subsequent rinsing session show different and distinguishable patterns. These can be used to generate a dispense signal to enable the appropriate composition to be dispensed during each rinse cycle or target rinse cycle. Examples of compositions that can be dispensed during a rinse cycle are described herein.

Definition of

Washing program

Washing machines typically have one or more programs that the user selects to suit the items to be washed and the degree of soil. Each program is a sequence of phases with varying conditions (duration, amount of water/solution, speed, temperature). As used herein, the word "loop" refers to individual phases, while the word "program" refers to a combination of those phases.

Typically, the stages of the washing program include:

1. a wash cycle (where the drum is filled to a certain level and the items are agitated in solution, followed by draining the solution); rotation may be used to aid in removing the solution;

2. a rinsing period (in which the drum is filled with water to a certain level and the articles are agitated in the water, followed by draining of the water); the rinse phase may include one or more rinse cycles, often two or three rinse cycles are used; rotation may be used to help remove the solution/water;

3. a dewatering cycle in which a basket having drainage openings is rapidly rotated so that the remaining water, including water absorbed within the fabric of the goods, is removed by centrifugal force.

Laundry products

Laundry products, as used herein, refers to compositions used in the cleaning and related treatment of articles, typically, but not exclusively, in automatic washing machines.

The laundry product may be a detergent. In other words, it can perform a certain cleaning function. Detergent laundry products are known in the art and may include surfactants, builders and enzymes. The laundry product may be a fabric treatment product (agent). In this regard, fabric treatment refers to a product that can be used to treat or otherwise condition an article in a washing machine. Examples may include fabric conditioners, UV protectants, water repellents, perfumes, and insect repellents.

Thus, the methods of washing articles described herein may (but are not necessarily) include cleaning products.

Sensor with a sensor element

The sensor is an electronic sensor. Which is in electronic communication with the processor. Indeed, in some cases, the sensor and the processor are provided as a single unit. For example, the sensor and processor may be provided as a single printed circuit board or the like. As will be appreciated, there may be more than one sensor. For example, two or more sensors may be provided as a single unit, optionally together with a processor.

Processor with a memory having a plurality of memory cells

In the most basic case, the processor obtains data from the sensors and configures it to respond to that data under specific conditions. In the case where only the dispensing device (e.g., only one electronic valve) is in electronic communication with the processor, the processor state may be "yes" or "no" (e.g., corresponding to sending "dispense" and not sending "dispense"). It will be appreciated that in some cases, the processor may be configured to cross-reference and interpret data from two or more sensors. In the case where there is more than one sensor, each sensor may be in electronic communication with a single processor (which sends a signal), or different sensors may be in electronic communication with different processors. In the case where there is more than one dispensing device (e.g., only one electronic valve), different dispensing devices may be in electronic communication with different processors. In some cases, only one processor is provided.

Suitable valve

The valve may be an electrically operated valve. They may also be referred to as electronic fluid flow controllers. Suitable valves include, but are not limited to, solenoid valves. In the case where other dispensing means are provided, such as a plunger or bellows, the valve may be a non-electronic valve. The valve may be a pressure valve, for example, a squeeze (squeezy) non-drip irrigation type valve, which may be made of silicone.

It is understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application and scope of the appended claims.

Claims (6)

1. A laundry product dosing device for placement in a drum of a washing machine, the device comprising a sensor and a processor in electronic communication and being configured to receive at least two laundry products such that the laundry products are isolated, each laundry product being sealable within the device by a valve which is openable upon receipt of a signal generated by the processor to dispense a laundry product, wherein the device comprises a plurality of chambers comprising cooperating means configured to engage with complementary cooperating means on a reservoir cartridge such that, in position, the reservoir cartridge is securely held within the chamber and laundry product within the reservoir cartridge is contained or released in dependence on the valve of the device being in a closed or open state, wherein the valve is an electrically operated valve or a pressure valve.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to dispense two laundry products simultaneously upon receipt of a signal.

3. The device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the device is configured to dispense a first laundry product at a first time in a wash program upon receipt of a first signal; and dispensing further laundry product at a subsequent time in the wash program upon receipt of the further signal.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the apparatus has a chamber configured to receive a plurality of cartridges, wherein the chamber comprises a first mating device to connect a first cartridge such that the cartridges are sealable by a first valve; the chamber further comprises a second mating device to connect to a second magazine such that the magazine is sealable by a second valve; wherein the contents of the first magazine are dispensable upon receipt of a signal generated by the processor and the contents of the second magazine are dispensable upon receipt of a signal generated by the processor.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: (A) the sensor, processor and one or more valves are in electronic communication and each valve is configured to open upon receipt of a signal generated by the processor, or (B) the sensor and processor are in electronic communication with a plurality of pressure generating devices configured to increase the pressure of the laundry product upon receipt of one or more signals generated by the processor such that application of pressure to the one or more valves causes the valves to open.

6. A magazine containing laundry products, characterized in that it is configured for use with a device according to any of claims 1-5.

Images