EP1802801A2 - Procédé et dispositif de lavage - Google Patents

Procédé et dispositif de lavage

Info

Publication number
EP1802801A2
EP1802801A2 EP05810296A EP05810296A EP1802801A2 EP 1802801 A2 EP1802801 A2 EP 1802801A2 EP 05810296 A EP05810296 A EP 05810296A EP 05810296 A EP05810296 A EP 05810296A EP 1802801 A2 EP1802801 A2 EP 1802801A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
zone
water
washing
washing system
electrolysis
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP05810296A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Paul John Edward Vernon
Mark William Glogowski
John Christian Haught
Robb Richard Gardner
Adam Costello
Andre Cesar Baeck
Andre Christian Convents
Johan Smets
Pascale Claire Annick Van Steenwinckel
Peter Gerard Gray
Graeme Duncan Cruickshank
Michael Duncan
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Procter and Gamble Co
Original Assignee
Procter and Gamble Co
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US10/967,757 external-priority patent/US20050252532A1/en
Priority claimed from US11/130,713 external-priority patent/US20050252538A1/en
Application filed by Procter and Gamble Co filed Critical Procter and Gamble Co
Publication of EP1802801A2 publication Critical patent/EP1802801A2/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/4214—Water supply, recirculation or discharge arrangements; Devices therefor
    • A47L15/4217—Fittings for water supply, e.g. valves or plumbing means to connect to cold or warm water lines, aquastops
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/4229—Water softening arrangements
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/46—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
    • C02F1/461—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
    • C02F1/46104—Devices therefor; Their operating or servicing
    • C02F1/4618—Devices therefor; Their operating or servicing for producing "ionised" acidic or basic water
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/46—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
    • C02F1/461—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
    • C02F1/467—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction
    • C02F1/4672—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction by electrooxydation
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/46—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
    • C02F1/469—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrochemical separation, e.g. by electro-osmosis, electrodialysis, electrophoresis
    • C02F1/4691—Capacitive deionisation
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F5/00—Softening water; Preventing scale; Adding scale preventatives or scale removers to water, e.g. adding sequestering agents
    • C02F5/02—Softening water by precipitation of the hardness
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L2601/00—Washing methods characterised by the use of a particular treatment
    • A47L2601/06—Electrolysed water
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L2601/00—Washing methods characterised by the use of a particular treatment
    • A47L2601/16—Agitation of cleaning liquid by impeller
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2103/00—Nature of the water, waste water, sewage or sludge to be treated
    • C02F2103/002—Grey water, e.g. from clothes washers, showers or dishwashers

Definitions

  • washing machines have been launched on the Japanese and Asian markets that make use of electrolysis, ultrasonic or cavitation techniques to promote the cleaning or disinfection of laundry.
  • a number of washing machines include at least one wash cycle characterized as 'detergent-free' and which is designed for the washing of laundry that is relatively lightly soiled.
  • 'detergent-free' As the washing machine manufacturers themselves make clear, however, the machines and systems currently on the market are of limited value for the washing of more heavily soiled or stained items where the use of a surfactant-based detergent product continues to be necày to achieve acceptable cleaning performance. Accordingly, such machines are designed and marketed for so-called 'hybrid' use with non-detergent and detergent wash-cycles being selectable according to the severity of the laundering task.
  • the non-detergent based cleaning technologies may have the potential to save on detergent product usage in light soil situations, but such savings are offset to a lesser or greater extent by the operational need for higher water and energy utilization.
  • the present invention relates to a washing system for cleaning within a washing zone comprising at least one inlet capable of fluid communication with a feed water; at least one treatment zone in fluid communication with the at least one inlet, said at least one treatment zone comprising a water softening zone, an electrolysis zone, a dosing zone and combinations thereof; and at least one outlet in fluid communication the at least treatment zone capable of being in fluid communication with a washing zone.
  • the washing zone is capable of cleaning or washing substrates comprises laundry and dishware.
  • the water softening zone comprises nanofiltration devices, electrodeionization devices, electrodialysis devices, reverse- osmosis devices capacitive deionization devices, flow-through capacitors and ion-exchange water- softening devices and combinations thereof.
  • the water-softening zone comprises capacitive deionization.
  • the at least partially softened water comprises a residual Ca 2+ hardness of less than about 4 mmol/L.
  • at least partially softened water comprises a soft water flux of at least about 2 L/h at a feed water pressure from about 100 to about 1000 kP.
  • the device and the washing zone are housed substantially within one housing. In one embodiment the device and the washing zone are independently housed.
  • the dosing zone is fluidly connected between the at least one inlet and at least one outlet and capable of dispensing a fabric care composition.
  • the present invention further comprises a mixing zone functionally connected between the dosing zone and the outlet capable of at least partially mixing the fabric care composition with a second fluid.
  • the mixing zone comprises in-line mixers comprising, venturi flow, direct injection pumps, peristaltic pumps, gravity feeds, and spraying; sonic mixers; ultrasonic mixers; and combinations thereof.
  • from about 0.01 to about 50 grams of fabric care composition are dispensed by the dosing zone.
  • the washing system comprises a first water softening and a second water softening zone; and a first electrolysis zone and a second electrolysis zones wherein the first water softening zone is fluidly connected to the first electrolysis zone and the second water softening zone is fluidly connected to the second electrolysis zone.
  • the present invention farther comprises at least one check valve between the at least one inlet and the at least one outlet.
  • the present invention further comprises at least one sensor capable of sensing at least one water level, density, conductivity, pH, vibration, temperature, turbidity, viscosity, and combinations thereof.
  • Figure 1 comprises a first non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 comprises a second non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 comprises a third non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.
  • compositions of the present invention can include, consist essentially of, or consist of, the components of the present invention as well as other ingredients described herein.
  • consisting essentially of means that the composition or component may include additional ingredients, but only if the additional ingredients do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed compositions or methods.
  • AU percentages and ratios used herein are by weight of the total composition and all measurements made are at 25 0 C, unless otherwise designated.
  • An angular degree is a planar unit of angular measure equal in magnitude to 1/360 of a complete revolution.
  • product encompasses both active-based detergent compositions suitable for washing and cleaning of soiled substrates as well as auxiliary compositions suitable for use after washing or in conjunction with active-based detergents and designed to provide an ancillary substrate benefit or effect, for example, finishing agents, rinsing agents, fabric enhancers designed to provide post-wash fabric care benefits, and detergent auxiliaries designed to provide post-wash surface care benefits.
  • auxiliary compositions suitable for use after washing or in conjunction with active-based detergents and designed to provide an ancillary substrate benefit or effect, for example, finishing agents, rinsing agents, fabric enhancers designed to provide post-wash fabric care benefits, and detergent auxiliaries designed to provide post-wash surface care benefits.
  • finishing agents for example, finishing agents, rinsing agents, fabric enhancers designed to provide post-wash fabric care benefits, and detergent auxiliaries designed to provide post-wash surface care benefits.
  • product dispensing zone "product storage means,” etc., should be construed accordingly.
  • feed water encompasses water directly from the mains including municipally available water and ground water, from the mains or used-water reservoir such as a recycle reservoir used for storage of recycled water, a storage tank, or from a combination thereof.
  • used-water reservoir such as a recycle reservoir used for storage of recycled water, a storage tank, or from a combination thereof.
  • laundry as used herein encompasses woven and non-woven fabric. Non- limiting uses for this fabric include clothing, bedding, towels, and the like.
  • washing zone encompasses the volume whereby laundry, and/or product and/or a softened water are present to perform cleaning and/or washing.
  • An example of a washing zone includes the volume created by the drum of an automatic washing machine. It has now surprisingly been discovered that the washing system of the present invention provides improved cleaning and washing efficacy. Further, the washing systems can be utilized for a variety of cleaning or washing duties.
  • a washing system for cleaning within a washing zone comprising at least one inlet capable of fluid communication with a feed water; at least one treatment zone in fluid communication with the at least one inlet, said at least one treatment zone comprising a water softening zone, an electrolysis zone, a dosing zone, and/or combinations thereof; and at least one outlet in fluid communication with the at least one treatment zone capable of being in fluid communication with a washing zone.
  • the washing zone and the washing system of the present invention are independently housed. Such an embodiment is contemplated with washing systems that are at the point-of-use.
  • the water- softening zone of the present invention is located in a different housing than the washing zone.
  • the water-softening zone is fluidly connected between the feed water and the inlet of the washing zone.
  • existing devices utilizing feed water including washing zones comprising washing machines and automatic dishwashing machines, water heaters, as well as "whole-house” inlet streams may be retrofitted and/or adapted to have such water softening zones present to treat feed water from the water supply.
  • the washing systems of the present invention and the washing zone are contained substantially within one housing.
  • housing the washing systems of the present invention and the washing zone substantially within one housing minimises any plumbing or fluid connections necessary among the elements of the washing system.
  • housing the washing systems of the present invention and the washing zone substantially within one housing minimizes the volume and/or space required.
  • the washing systems of the invention can take the form of an integral water-softening and washing appliance wherein the water-softening zone and washing zone are built into and form part of a single appliance with the two zones in fluid communication with one another via the conduits of the appliance.
  • the washing system comprises a water-softening appliance and a washing appliance in hyphenated form, whereby the water-softening appliance and its associated water-softening zone forms a stand-alone unit that can be either permanently or temporarily fitted to the feed water inlet conduits of the washing appliance as required by the user, any power supply required for the water-softening appliance being taken either from the power supply for the washing appliance or separately from the mains power supply.
  • Systems and devices of the present invention are also advantageous in that water softening takes place without the use of ion exchange resins. Also, the increased cleaning benefit produced by the present invention results in less water/energy use to achieve an equivalent cleaning benefit versus water not treated by the present invention.
  • the washing systems herein comprise a water-softening zone.
  • the water-softening zone comprises one or more devices comprising nanofiltration, electrodeionization, electrodialysis, reverse-osmosis, ion-exchange, and capacitive deionization water-softening devices and combinations thereof.
  • the water-softening zones can include those disclosed in the commonly-assigned and co-filed patent application in the name of Baeck, Convents and Smets, Applicant's reference number CM2849F, said application being incorporated by reference herein.
  • the water softening zone is effective to soften the water forming at least partially softened water to a residual Ca 2+ hardness of less than about 4 mmol/L, in another embodiment less than about 2 mmol/L, in yet another embodiment less than about 1 mmol/L, in still another embodiment from about 4 mmol/L to about 0.01 mmol/L, in yet still another embodiment from about 2 mmol/L to about 0.05 mmol/L, in even still another embodiment from about 1 mmol/L to about 0.1 mmol/L.
  • the specific conductance depends on the total concentration of the dissolved ionized substances, i.e., the ionic strength of a water sample. As used herein, it is an expression of the ability of the water to conduct an electric current. For example, freshly distilled water has a conductance of 0.5-2 ⁇ S/cm, whereas that of potable water generally is 50-1500 ⁇ S/cm.
  • the method of determining the specific conductance in the present invention utilizes the following test: ASTM D5391-99 (2005): Standard Test Method for Electrical Conductivity of Flowing High Purity Water Samples.
  • the water softening zone is effective to soften the water forming at least partially softened water to a specific conductance of less than about 200 ⁇ S/cm, in another less than about 150 ⁇ S/cm, in yet another embodiment less than about 100 ⁇ S/cm, in another less than 75 ⁇ S/cm, in another less than 50 ⁇ S/cm, in still another embodiment from about 0.01 ⁇ S/cm to about 200 ⁇ S/cm, in yet still another embodiment from about 0.1 ⁇ S/cm to about 100 ⁇ S/cm, in even still another embodiment from about 1 ⁇ S/cm to about 50 ⁇ S/cm.
  • the water softening zone will remove ionic species, including, but not limited to cationic species, anionic species, zwitterionic species, amphoteric species and combinations thereof.
  • ionic species include, but are not limited to, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium and mixtures thereof.
  • anionic species include, but are not limited to, chlorine, fluorine, carbonate, sulphate, and mixtures thereof.
  • the washing system can additionally comprise a softened water reservoir for storing and delivering at least partially softened water to the washing zone.
  • a softened water reservoir for storing and delivering at least partially softened water to the washing zone.
  • the water-softening zone forms an at least partially softened water.
  • the at least partially softened water when transferred to the washing zone, increases the efficacy of any product added to the washing zone.
  • the at least partially softened water lengthens the usable life of components of the washing system, as the use of at least partially softened water reduces and/or prevents the build up of hard water deposits, scales, and the like resulting in cleaner washing system components.
  • the water-softening zone utilizes capacitive deionization.
  • Capacitive deionization units utilize charged electrodes for softening of the water. Capacitive deionization with electrodes is capable of removing ionic species and other impurities from water without the addition of other ions as is typical of an ion exchange water softener. Other forms of capacitive deionization include flow through capacitors which utilize similar fundamental physics. For the purposes of this invention capacitive deionization units include flow-thorough capacitors. Without wishing to be bound by theory, water is passed between electrodes kept at a low potential difference and/or voltage. Ionic species present in the water travel to its oppositely charged electrode.
  • Electrode regeneration involves periodically purging the electrodes of ionic species by reversing electrode polarity and flushing with water to form a waste electrolyte stream or by grounding the plates and flushing them with water to form a waste electrolyte stream. Further, the electrodes can be regenerated of adsorbed materials by contacting the electrodes with acid streams or base streams. In one embodiment, acid streams and base streams are generated by an electrolysis zone, as discussed herein.
  • the electrodes of the capacitive deionization units are made from carbon aerogels.
  • Carbon aerogel electrodes are found in U.S. Patent No. 6,309,532 to Tran et el. Carbon- aerogel electrodes have excellent chemical stability and a very high surface area per unit volume.
  • carbon aerogels are made utilizing various carbon systems. These systems are often, though not necessarily made by pyrolisis.
  • carbon systems include, but are not limited to, resorcinol/formaldehyde resorcinol/phenol/formaldehyde, hydroquinone/resorcinol/formaldehyde, phloroglucinol/resorcinol/formaldehyde, catechol/resorcinol/formaldehyde, polyvinyl chloride, phenol/formaldehyde, epoxidized phenol/formaldehyde, polyvinyl chloride, phenolibenzaldehyde, oxidized polystyrene, polyfurfuryl alcohol, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene chloride, cellulose, polybutylene, cellulose acetate, melamine/formaldehyde, polyvinyl acetate, ethyl cellulose, epoxy resins, acrylonitrile/styrene, polystyrene, polyamide, polyisobuty
  • electrodes exemplified are U.S. Patent No. 6,737,445 to Bell et al. and U.S. Application No. 20030153636 to Dietz et al. are utilized, whereby these references are incorporated by reference. Further, the electrodes may be arranged in a flow through fashion, as described in U.S. No. Patent 6,462,935 to Shiue et al. and U.S. Application No. 20040095706 to Faris et al., whereby these references are incorporated by reference.
  • the flow rate of feed water treated with capacitive deionization to make an at least partially softened water is from about 0.5 liters/min to about 20.0 liters/min, in another embodiment from about 0.75 liters/min to about 8 liters/min, in yet another embodiment from about 1 liters/minute to about 5 liters/min, in still another embodiment greater than about 1 liter/minute.
  • the overall surface area of the electrodes utilized in the capacitive deionization unit is from about 200 to about 1500 m 2 /g; in another embodiment from about 400- 1200 m 2 /g; in another embodiment from about 500-1000 m 2 /g.
  • the potential difference or voltage is from about 0.5 volts to about 10 volts; in another embodiment from about 0.75 to about 8 volts; in yet another embodiment from about 1 to about 5 volts.
  • the capacitive deionization unit is capable of self-cleaning.
  • cleaning commences when the electrodes exhibit diminished adsorption of the ionic species from the solution as noted by the decrease in the resistivity of the outlet water - water processed by the washing systems of the present invention - and/or a decrease in the level of hardness reduction.
  • the decreased performance of the electrodes is observed by a conductivity meter.
  • the decreased performance in one embodiment, is measured by dividing the conductivity of the "dirty" electrode - an electrode containing ionic species gathered by operation of the washing systems - by the conductivity of the "clean” electrode — electrode before the use of the washing systems, whereby clean electrode in one embodiment is substantially free of ionic species - to determine the conductivity fraction.
  • a self-cleaning cycle is initiated.
  • a self-cleaning cycle is initiated when the conductivity fraction is less than about 0.9, in another embodiment, the conductivity fraction is less than about 0.7, in yet another embodiment, the conductivity fraction is less than about 0.5, in yet another embodiment, the conductivity fraction is less than about 0.4, in yet another embodiment, the conductivity fraction is less than about 0.3, in yet another embodiment, the conductivity fraction is less than about 0.2, in yet another embodiment the conductivity fraction is between about 0.1 and about 0.6, in yet another embodiment the conductivity fraction is between about 0.2 and 0.4.
  • the capacitive deionization unit further comprises a prefilter.
  • the prefilter is capable of extending the life of the electrodes, as well as delaying the frequency of the self-cleaning cycle of the electrodes. It is believed that the prefilter absorbs, blocks, or otherwise removes neutrally charged species contained in feed water. Such neutrally charges species are minimally effected by the electrodes on the capacitive deionization unit and thus are capable of contaminating the adsorption sites on the electrodes.
  • the prefilter of the present invention is made from any material that substantially absorbs, blocks, and/or otherwise removes neutrally charged species from feed water. Such materials include, but are not limited to, activated carbon, silica, paper, metallic mesh filters, membranes, gels, and combinations thereof. Nanofiltration
  • the water-softening zone comprises a feed water filtration device.
  • filtration device is a nanofiltration device having a cut-off in the range from about 100 to about 1000 Daltons, in one embodiment from about 200 to about 1000 Daltons.
  • the clean water flux of the device is in one embodiment at least 3, in one embodiment at least 6 L/m 2 h at lOOkP at 25°C.
  • the water-softening zone takes the form of a cross-flow filtration device having permeate and retentate outlet ports, the permeate outlet port being in fluid communication with the washing zone and the retentate outlet port being in fluid communication with one or more of the effluent storage, discharge and wash liquor-cleanup and recycle zones.
  • cross-flow devices are provided with a feed water input, retentate recirculation, hard- water effluent bleed and optional recirculation pump.
  • the flux ratio of soft- water permeate to hard- water effluent is at least about 1:1, In another embodiment at least about 3:1, in yet another embodiment at least about 5:1, and in still another embodiment at least about 8:1.
  • Such filtration devices in one embodiment take the form of a module comprising a filter housing provided with a membrane compartment in which is mounted a bundle of capillary or tubular filtration membranes, the ends of which are encased in membrane holders and which communicate with one or more inlet ports and one or more retentate outlet ports.
  • the filter housing is also provided with one or more openings in the wall of the filter housing and which communicate with one or more permeate outlet ports. Hot or cold water from the feed supply enters the filter housing via a connection into the inlet port and then passes through the capillary or tubular filtration membranes, the resulting retentate and permeate being discharged through connections into the corresponding retentate and permeate outlet ports.
  • Such an arrangement is referred to herein as an
  • the module can be operated in reverse manner ('outside-in') wherein the feed water is supplied and the retentate discharged via openings in the wall of the filter housing communicating with corresponding inlet and retentate outlet port connections.
  • permeate is collected within the filtration membranes and discharged via their open ends and corresponding permeate outlet port connections.
  • the module can also be provided with one or more distributor pipes placed transverse to the direction of the filtration membranes with one or more openings into the membrane compartment in order to reduce the transverse forces on the filtration membranes, such an arrangement being described in detail in WO-A-98/20962.
  • Exemplary filtration devices or modules include polyamide/polyethersulfone nanof ⁇ ltration membranes developed for inside-out filtration marketed by X-Flow B. V. under the designation NF50M10. Nanofiltration membranes can be prone to degradation or attack by chlorine in feed water.
  • the filtration device may be used in conjunction with a chlorine removal system such as a carbon prefilter, an antioxidant or brass in order to extend the working life of the device.
  • a chlorine removal system such as a carbon prefilter, an antioxidant or brass in order to extend the working life of the device.
  • the filtration device in one embodiment also comprises a pump for recirculating the retentate stream through the filtration module under elevated pressure, the pump either being situated in the recirculation loop with the sole or primary purpose of retentate recirculation or else being operatively connected to the main discharge pump of the washing appliance or washing zone.
  • the water-softening zone comprises an electrodialysis unit or electrodeionization unit.
  • electrodialysis cation-exchange membranes are alternatively stacked with anion-exchange membranes and the resulting compartmentalized array is placed between two oppositely-charged electrodes.
  • Feed water is fed into the device under low pressure and circulated between the membranes.
  • cations and anions move in opposite directions towards the cathode and anode respectively and concentrate in alternate compartments.
  • the at least partially softened water resulting from the electrodialysis unit is then fed to the washing zone and the hard water effluent fed to one or more of the effluent storage, discharge and wash liquor-cleanup and recycle zones.
  • Electrodeionization is in effect a combination of electrodialysis with ion exchange.
  • a mixture of cation- and anion- exchange resins are introduced between the cation- and anion- exchange membranes and all ionic species in the feed water are trapped within the resin.
  • the at least partially softened water output is then fed to the washing zone whereupon the device undergoes an electrochemical regeneration cycle in which the cation- and anion-exchange resins are regenerated for subsequent use.
  • the resulting the hard water effluent is then fed to one or more of the effluent storage, discharge and wash liquor-cleanup and recycle zones.
  • the washing system comprises a wash liquor cleanup and recycle zone in fluid communication with the washing zone for purposes of cleaning and recycling the wash liquor from the washing zone.
  • Cleaning of the wash liquor can be performed as a separate batch operation on bulk liquor at an off-line location, but in one embodiment cleaning is performed on a stream of the wash liquor within a recycle loop section of the washing system. Alternatively cleaning can take place within a section or sub-zone of the washing zone itself.
  • the term 'cleaning' refers to a reduction in the soil content of the wash liquor (either the bulk liquor or the wash liquor stream as appropriate), soil content being measured, for example, by means of turbidity. In one embodiment the turbidity of the recycled wash liquor is less than about 15 NTU, in one embodiment less than about 5 NTU.
  • the liquor is recycled back to the washing zone where it can be used in the same or a subsequent washing step or in a post-wash rinsing step.
  • the wash liquor is recycled to the washing zone during or at the end of an essentially detergent- free prewash step prior to a detergent-assisted, in one embodiment a bleach-assisted washing step.
  • Prewash embodiments of the invention are particularly valuable herein in the case of bleach-assisted substrate washing steps from the viewpoint of providing improved bleaching and cleaning performance.
  • the washing system is arranged to provide continuous or semi-continuous cleanup and recycle of wash liquor during the same substrate washing step, in other words, the wash liquor is recycled continuously or in one or more phases of operation during the washing or prewashing step so as to remove soil from the washing zone and reduce or minimize soil redeposition onto the substrate.
  • 'essentially-free' of detergent is meant a wash liquor containing less than about 0.1% of detergent product by weight of the wash liquor.
  • the wash liquor cleanup and recycle zone comprises a wash liquor filtration device which is effective to lower the turbidity of the recycled wash liquor to less than about 15 NTU, in one embodiment less than about 5 NTU.
  • the permeate flux delivered by the device is in one embodiment at least about 100 L/h, in one embodiment at least about 500 L/h when operating at a pressure in the range from about 100 to about 1000 kP (1-10 bar), in one embodiment from about 100 to about 400 kP (1-4 bar).
  • the surface area of the membrane is in one embodiment from about 0.01 to about 2m 2 , in one embodiment from about 0.05 to about 1 m 2 , in one embodiment from about 0.25 to about 0.75 m 2 .
  • the wash liquor cleanup and recycle zone comprises an ultrafiltration or microfiltration device.
  • the filtration device in one embodiment has a cut-off in the range from about 1000 Daltons to about l ⁇ m, in one embodiment from about 0.05 ⁇ m to about 0.5 ⁇ m.
  • the filtration device in one embodiment comprises one or more tubular membranes, the lumen size of each membrane being in one embodiment from about 1 to about 10 mm, in one embodiment from about 2 to about 6 mm, and in one embodiment from about 3 to about 5 mm.
  • the filtration device in one embodiment has a clean water flux of at least about 1000 L/m 2 .h.l00kp (RO water at 25°C), in one embodiment at least about 10,000 L/m 2 at 10OkP.
  • the cut-off herein refers to the nominal pore size rating of the membrane of the device except that the overall minimum value (1000 Daltons) is given in terms of molecular weight cut-off.
  • Lumen size refers to the minimum internal diameter of the membrane.
  • the system of the present invention includes a wash liquor cleanup and recycle zone that comprises a cross-flow filtration device.
  • the cross-flow filtration device comprises one or more free-standing, asymmetric, tubular filtration membranes, each tubular membrane having a lumen size having the dimensions described above.
  • the device comprises a series of intercommunicating membrane subunits, each subunit being in the form of a bundle comprising one or more, in one embodiment from about 2 to about 20, in one embodiment from about 5 to about 15 of the tubular filtration membranes.
  • the individual subunits can be interconnected by one or more sections of tubular membrane having a larger lumen size.
  • the total path length of tubular membrane in the device is in one embodiment from about 10 to about 250m, in one embodiment from about 35 to about 150m and the pressure drop across the cross-flow filtration device from its inlet to its outlet is less than about 2 bar, in another embodiment less than about 1 bar, and in another embodiment from about 0.2 to about 0.5 bar.
  • each tubular membrane in one embodiment has a Reynold's Number of at least about 2300, in another embodiment at least about 4000 at an operating pressure in the range from about 100 to about 1000 kP (1-10 bar), in another embodiment from about 100 to about 400 kP (1-4 bar).
  • the cross-flow filtration device is provided with wash liquor input and permeate and retentate outlet ports, the permeate outlet port being in fluid communication with the washing zone and the retentate outlet port being in fluid communication with a wash liquor buffer zone or with the effluent discharge zone.
  • wash liquor is fed or drawn from the washing zone to the buffer zone along a first conduit and is then fed under pressure with the aid of a pump along a second conduit from the buffer zone to the inlet port of the cross-flow filtration device.
  • a conventional coarse filter designed to remove particles of greater than about 20 microns, for example activated carbon, can also be provided upstream of the cross-flow filtration device for removal of larger size impurities.
  • a pressure relief valve can also be provided on the inlet port of the cross-flow filtration device, excess pressure being relieved by drainage into the buffer zone or effluent discharge zone.
  • the buffer zone is closed to the atmosphere in which case wash liquor is automatically drawn into the buffer zone in tandem with the removal of permeate to the washing zone.
  • the buffer zone can be vented to atmosphere and the wash liquor fed under pressure from the washing zone to the buffer zone.
  • Relief valves can also be positioned on the retentate outlet and on the inlet and outlet sides of the buffer zone.
  • a valve for example a pinch valve, can also be provided on the permeate outlet port of the filtration device to enable intermittent clean-sweeping or back-flushing of the filtration membrane.
  • a valve for example a pinch valve
  • the filtration device in one embodiment takes the form of a module comprising a filter housing provided with a membrane compartment in which the tubular filtration membrane or membranes are mounted, the ends of which are encased in membrane holders and communicate with the inlet and retentate outlet ports.
  • each subunit generally comprises a bundle of tubular membranes, a pair of membrane holders for encasing the ends of the tubular membranes and an outer sheath provided with one or more openings to allow discharge of permeate into the membrane compartment of the filter housing.
  • the individual membrane subunits can intercommunicate via one or more sections of interconnecting tubular membrane having a lumen size generally greater than that of the individual subunits.
  • the terminal subunits of the series can communicate with the inlet and retentate outlet ports via one or more sections of tubular membrane and corresponding membrane holders set into the membrane housing.
  • the filter housing is also provided with one or more openings in the wall of the filter housing communicating with the permeate outlet port or ports. Wash liquor enters the filter housing via a connection into the inlet port and then passes through the filtration membrane or membranes, the resulting retentate and permeate being discharged through connections into the corresponding retentate and permeate outlet ports.
  • a wide range of membrane materials can be employed herein for the ultrafiltration or microfiltration device including polypropylene, polyvinylidene difluoride, cellulose acetate, cellulose, polypropylene, polyacrylonitrile, polysulfones, polyarylsulphones, polyethersulphones, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, aliphatic and aromatic polyamides, polyimides and mixtures thereof.
  • Preferred herein is an asymmetric polyethersulphone membrane having a nominal pore size ratio (inner to outer surface) of about 1:10 and a surface energy (inner surface) of about 8 dynes/cm.
  • the washing systems of the invention comprise a dosing zone situated intermediate the water-softening zone and the washing zone.
  • the dosing zone comprises means for dosing product (either an active detergent or a detergent auxiliary such as a finishing agent or fabric enhancer) into the pre-softened feed water within or on the feed water inlet to the washing zone and may also comprise product storage means for bulk detergent and/or detergent auxiliary product.
  • the product dispensing zone will generally comprise means enabling filling, refilling or replacement of the product storage means and may in addition comprise valves, dispensing orifices or other means for controlling the dosing rate of the detergent and/or detergent auxiliary product relative to the soft water flux of the water-softening zone.
  • the dispensing and water-softening zones are serially-connected or comprise an integral water-softening and product-dispensing unit, i.e. a unit having separate but interconnected water-softening and product-dispensing zones, the product-dispensing zone being downstream of the water-softening zone and comprising means for dosing product into the feed water on the output side of the water-softening zone.
  • an integral water-softening and product-dispensing unit i.e. a unit having separate but interconnected water-softening and product-dispensing zones, the product-dispensing zone being downstream of the water-softening zone and comprising means for dosing product into the feed water on the output side of the water-softening zone.
  • the substrate is contacted with the wash liquor while simultaneously performing cleanup and recycle of the wash liquor.
  • cleanup and recycle is initiated in the final half of the washing step, for example, after a completion of about 50%, in one embodiment at least about 70% or even about 90% of the time for the washing step.
  • cleanup and recycle is initiated only after the system has reached its optimum washing temperature or after the wash liquor has reached a threshold turbidity or conductivity value or a threshold value of soil.
  • the washing system can be provided with one or more sensors responsive to the turbidity, conductivity or soil level of the wash liquor and which acts as a trigger for initiating cleanup and recycle.
  • the wash liquor is 'recycled to the washing zone or rinsing zone for use in a post-wash rinsing step.
  • a recycle reservoir for storing the cleaned wash liquor prior to recycling.
  • the method comprises at least one of or any combination of i) a water softening step wherein the feed water is softened in the water softening zone, ii) an optional detergent dispensing step wherein an active detergent product is dosed in a cleaning-effective amount into the wash liquor or feed water, iii) a washing step wherein the soiled substrate is contacted with the softened wash liquor, iv) the wash liquor cleanup and recycle step, v) a fabric enhancer dispensing step wherein a fabric enhancer providing a post-wash fabric care or aesthetic benefit is dosed into the recycled wash liquor, and vi) a rinsing step wherein the fabrics are contacted with the resulting rinse liquor.
  • Suitable fabric enhancers include perfumes and other olfactory agents, textile softening agents, ironing aids, antibacterial agents, anti-pilling aids, etc.
  • the washing step is undertaken at a detergent product wash liquor concentration in the range from about 0 to about 2% by weight, in one embodiment from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight, in one embodiment from about 0.01% to about 0.5% by weight, and in one embodiment from about 0.01% to about 0.25% by weight.
  • the detergent product will be present in a cleaning-effective amount, i.e. an amount effective to improve the cleaning end-result over and above the end-result that can be achieved in the absence of detergent. Accordingly, the detergent product will normally be present in a level of at least 0.1% by weight of the wash liquor.
  • the wash liquor pH during the washing step is in the range from about 5 to about 13, in one embodiment from about 6 to about 12, in one embodiment from about 7 to about 11.
  • the enzyme concentration during the washing step is in one embodiment from about 0.0001 to about lOOppm of active enzyme.
  • a non-limiting list of enzymes suitable for use herein is disclosed in, for example, US2002/0155971. SONICS
  • the washing systems herein additionally comprise means for sonically or ultrasonically treating the soiled substrate in the washing zone or in a washing pre-treatment zone.
  • the combination of sonic or ultrasonic treatment with wash liquor cleanup and recycle and water-softening is particularly valuable for providing improved cleaning of substrates across the range of detergent usage levels.
  • the means for sonically or ultrasonically treating the soiled substrate comprises a sonic or ultrasonic energy generator or a plurality of such generators wherein the frequency of the generated energy is in the range from about IkHz to about 15OkHz, in one embodiment from about 20IcHz to about 80kHz and the power input to the generator is in the range from about 0.1W to about 500W, in one embodiment from about 1OW to about 250W.
  • the energy generator is adapted for generating and supplying ultrasonic energy to the soiled substrate within the washing zone.
  • the frequency of the generated energy is in one embodiment in the range from about 2OkHz to about 150kHz, in one embodiment from about 2OkHz to about 80IcHz
  • the power input to the generator is in one embodiment in the range from about 2OW to about 500W per gallon of wash liquor (5.28W to 132. IW per litre), in one embodiment from about 25 W to about 250W per gallon of wash liquor (6.6W to 66.1W per litre) in the washing zone.
  • An energy generator suitable for use in such embodiments comprises an ultrasound transducer and an electronic power supply.
  • the ultrasound transducer can be either a PZT (Lead-Zirconate-Titanite) transducer or a magnetostrictive transducer.
  • Examples of the commercial ultrasound transducers include Vibra-Cell VCX series from Sonics & Materials Inc, and Tube Resonator from Telsonic AG. Single or array of several transducers can be used in the washing system.
  • the transducer(s) can be mounted at the bottom or on the sidewall surrounding the washing zone. It can also be submersed directly in the washing zone.
  • the transducers can also be mounted within the washing machine drum or tub as described in detail below.
  • the washing system takes the form of a front-loading washing machine comprising a drum for accommodating the laundry, the drum having one or more, in one embodiment two to four, in one embodiment three baffles on the inner circumferential wall thereof for tumbling the laundry.
  • the washing machine also comprises one or more sonic or ultrasonic generators mounted on at least one and in one embodiment on each baffle of the drum so that sonic or ultrasonic energy is applied to the laundry as the laundry items are lifted out of the bulk wash liquor in contact with the corresponding baffle.
  • the washing system takes the form of a top-loading washing machine having a central agitator paddle having one or more sonic or ultrasonic generators mounted thereon.
  • the energy generator is adapted for generating and supplying sonic or ultrasonic energy to the soiled substrate within the washing pre-treatment zone.
  • the frequency of the generated energy is in one embodiment in the range from about IkHz to about 8OkHz, in one embodiment from about 2OkHz to about 6OkHz
  • the power input to the generator is in one embodiment in the range from about 0.1W to about 80W, in one embodiment from about IW to about 4OW.
  • An energy generator suitable for use in such embodiments comprises one or more vibrating cleaning transducers adapted to physically contact one or more surfaces of the soiled substrate.
  • the soiled substrate is passed under or between the cleaning transducers, the substrate being simultaneously or previously wetted with wash liquor.
  • the cleaning transducer can be mounted in a convenient position outside the washing zone and provided with means to enable drainage of the wash liquor into the washing zone.
  • the systems and methods of the invention can also include embodiments that combine the energy generator for the washing zone and the energy generator for the washing pre-treatment zone with frequencies and power inputs as described above.
  • the washing systems herein additionally comprise an electrolysis zone for electrolysing the feed water or wash liquor for purposes of generating electrolytically-activated wash liquor and/or rinse liquor.
  • the electrolysis zone herein comprises electrolysis means provided with at least a pair of electrodes for electrolysing the feed water or wash liquor, the electrolysis means being referred to respectively as feed water electrolysis means and wash water electrolysis means.
  • the feed water electrolysis means is disposed intermediate the feed supply and washing zone, while the wash liquor electrolysis means is disposed within the washing zone or within the wash liquor recycle zone.
  • the electrolysis zone can also comprise a reservoir (the electrolysis reservoir) for storage of the resulting electrolysed water, and means for storage and dispensing of electrolyte or other oxidant-precursor species into the feed water or wash liquor.
  • electrolysis zones suitable for use herein include both oxidant- generating and pH-generating electrolysis zones.
  • the feed water or wash liquor comprises in use one or more oxidant-precursor species and the electrolysis zone comprises means for generating one or more streams of oxidant or mixed- oxidant species in the feed water or wash liquor by electrolysis of the oxidant-precursor species.
  • the electrolysis zone comprises means for generating one or more streams of acidic and/or alkaline species in the feed water or wash liquor, said one or more streams being supplied to the washing zone for use in the substrate washing step or in a subsequent substrate rinsing step.
  • wash liquor that has been subjected to electrolysis, e.g. to generate oxidant, mixed oxidant, acidic or alkaline species, or wash liquor derived from feed water that has been subjected to electrolysis.
  • 'electrolytically-activated rinse liquor refers to rinse liquor derived from feed water or wash liquor that has been subjected to electrolysis.
  • the electrolysis unit is utilized in combination with the capacitive deionization unit to generate bleaching species capable for use as stain removers and for sanitization.
  • the waste stream from the capacitive deionization unit is routed to the electrolysis unit.
  • the waste stream from the capacitive deionization unit contains a high level of cationic and/or anionic species.
  • the cationic and/or anionic species within the waste stream upon electrolysis, are converted to various bleaching species including, but not limited to, hypochlorite, chlorine dioxide, and combinations thereof. It is believed that the majority of bleaching species are in the base stream.
  • the bleaching species generated are routed to the washing zone.
  • the acid stream, when sent to the washing zone, in the washing zone acts as an antimicrobial in the washing zone.
  • the base stream when sent to the washing zone, acts to raise the pH to improve cleaning.
  • the acid stream and/or base stream could be recombined and still deliver a bleaching effect in the wash zone or the one or both streams could be sent to the waste.
  • the acid stream and/or the base stream from the electrolysis unit is used to clean and/or regenerate the electrodes and/or other units.
  • the electrolysis unit is used to generate an acid stream and/or a base stream.
  • any metal species located on the electrodes will react when contacted by the acid stream while any neutral organic species will react when contacted by the base stream.
  • the neutral metal species and/or the neutral organic species become soluble.
  • the reacted neutral metal species and the neutral organic species optionally can be expelled as a waste electrode stream out of the capacitive deionization unit.
  • the acid stream and/or the base stream can be used to clean various units in connection with the current invention.
  • the acid stream and/or the base stream is used to clean a cross-filtration unit.
  • the acid stream and/or the base stream is brought into contact with the surface of the membranes of the cross flow filtration unit. Upon contact, the acid stream and/or the base stream reacts and/or dissolves species located on the membrane, thus providing cleaning.
  • an electrolysis brine is added to the water before electrolysis. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the addition of the electrolysis brine to the water before electrolysis facilitates in the production of bleaching species, including HClO " .
  • the electrolysis brine comprises sodium chloride and water.
  • the percentage by weight of sodium chloride in water for the electrolysis brine is from about 0.1% to about 35.9%, in another embodiment from about 1% to about 30%, in another embodiment from about 4% to about 20%, in another embodiment from about 5% to about 10%.
  • the electrolysis brine is added to the softened water such that, in the wash zone, a percentage by volume concentration of electrolysis brine to softened water is from about 0.1% to about to 20%, in another embodiment from about 1% to about 10%, in another embodiment from about 2% to about 7%, in another embodiment, from about 3% to about 6%, in another embodiment from about 1% to about 4%.
  • the washing systems herein additionally comprise a wash liquor disinfection zone.
  • wash liquor disinfection zone the combination of wash liquor disinfection with wash liquor cleanup and recycle and water-softening is particularly valuable for providing improved cleaning of substrates across the range of detergent usage levels.
  • the disinfection zone can take a number of different forms.
  • the disinfection zone comprises an antibacterial agent (which term herein includes both bactericidal and bacteriostatic agents) and means for delivering the antibacterial agent to the wash liquor.
  • the antibacterial agent comprises one or more oxidant or bleaching species such as ozone, hypochlorous acid or one or more antibacterial metal ion sources inclusive of silver, copper, zinc, tin and compounds thereof as well as combinations of said antibacterial ion sources with inorganic carrier materials.
  • the disinfection zone comprises an electrolytic source of an antibacterial agent such as silver, copper, zinc or tin ions or of an active oxidant or bleaching species such as hypochlorous acid.
  • the disinfection zone comprises a photocatalyst and/or UV source.
  • the photocatalyst and/or UV source can be associated with an ultrafiltration or microfiltration device for purposes of cleaning and disinfecting both the filtration device and the wash liquor.
  • Figures 1-3 are included to provide non-limiting examples of the methods and devices of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 comprises device 101, feed water 102 and wash zone 103.
  • wash zone 103 requests cold water 112 or hot water 110
  • the pressure drop is detected by hot water pressure sensor 113 and/or cold water pressure sensor 111.
  • Hot water pressure sensor 113 and/or cold water pressure sensor 111 communicates with feed water valve 114 and/or outlet water valve 116 to open or close.
  • feed water valve 114 and outlet water valve 116 are opened such that hot water 110 flows through device 101.
  • feed water valve 114 and outlet water valve 116 are opened such that cold water 112 flows through device 101.
  • Combinations of hot water 110 and cold water 110 can be formed by either opening feed water valve 114 and outlet water valve 116 partially so that hot water 110 and cold water 112 mix within device 101 or by alternating feed water valve 114 and outlet water valve 116 to allow hot water 110 and cold water 112 into wash zone 103 in an alternating fashion, thereby mixing hot water 110 and cold water 112 in wash zone 103.
  • Hot water 110 and/or cold water 112 flows through capacitive deionization unit 120 to form softened water.
  • Waste electrolyte stream 122 is generated by capacitive deionization unit 120.
  • Softened water from capacitive deionisation unit 120 optionally is injected with electrolysis brine 132.
  • Softened water containing optionally injected electrolysis brine 132 is flowed through electrolysis unit 130 to form electrolyzed water.
  • electrolyzed water is optionally injected with detergent 140 and/or optional fabric enhancer 142 and flowed through outlet water valve 116 into hot stream 115 and/or cold stream 117 and through hot wash zone inlet 104 and/or cold wash zone inlet 105 into wash zone 103.
  • Figure 2 comprises a device 201, feed water 202 and wash zone 203.
  • wash zone 203 requests cold water 212 or hot water 210
  • the pressure drop is detected by hot water pressure sensor 213 and/or cold water pressure sensor 211.
  • Hot water pressure sensor 213 and/or cold water pressure sensor 211 communicates with feed water valve 214 and/or outlet water valve 216 to open or close.
  • feed water valve 214 and outlet water valve 216 are opened such that hot water 210 flows through device 201.
  • feed water valve 214 and outlet water valve 216 are opened such that cold water 212 flows through device 201.
  • Combinations of hot water 210 and cold water 212 can be formed by either opening feed water valve 214 and outlet water valve 216 partially so that hot water 210 and cold water 212 mix within device 201 or by alternating feed water valve 214 and outlet water valve 216 to allow hot water 210 and cold water 212 into wash zone 203 in an alternating fashion, thereby mixing hot water 210 and cold water 212 in wash zone 203.
  • Hot water 210 and/or cold water 212 flows through capacitive deionization unit 220 to form softened water.
  • Waste electrolyte stream 222 is generated by capacitive deionization unit 220.
  • Softened water from the capacitive deionisation unit 220 optionally is injected with electrolysis brine 232.
  • Softened water containing optionally injected electrolysis brine 232 is flowed through electrolysis unit 230 to optionally form bleach-containing water.
  • Bleach storage valve 233 is capable of directing bleach-containing water from electrolysis unit 230 to bleach storage tank 234.
  • Bleach-containing water from bleach storage tank 234 can be pumped back into electrolysis unit 230 utilizing bleach recirculation pump 236 and bleach recirculation valve 231.
  • softened water and/or bleach-containing water is optionally injected with detergent 240 and/or fabric enhancer 242 and flowed through outlet water valve 216 into hot stream 215 and/or cold stream 217 and through hot wash zone inlet 204 and/or cold wash zone inlet 205 into wash zone 203.
  • Figure 3 comprises device 301, feed water 302 and wash zone 303.
  • wash zone 303 requests cold water 312 or hot water 310
  • the pressure drop is detected by hot water pressure sensor 313 and/or cold water pressure sensor 311.
  • Hot water pressure sensor 313 and/or cold water pressure sensor 311 communicates with feed water valve 314 and/or outlet water valve 316 to open or close.
  • feed water valve 314 and outlet water valve 316 are opened such that hot water 310 flows through device 301.
  • feed water valve 314 and outlet water valve 316 are opened such that cold water 312 flows through device 301.
  • Combinations of hot water 310 and cold water 312 can be formed by either opening feed water valve 314 and outlet water valve 316 partially so that hot water 310 and cold water 312 mix within device 301 or by alternating feed water valve 314 and outlet water valve 316 to allow hot water 310 and cold water 312 into wash zone 303 in an alternating fashion, thereby mixing hot water 310 and cold water 312 in wash zone 303.
  • Hot water 310 and/or cold water 312 flows through capacitive deionization unit 320 to form softened water.
  • Waste electrolyte stream 322 is generated by capacitive deionization unit 320.
  • Softened water from capacitive deionisation unit 320 optionally is injected with electrolysis brine 332.
  • Softened water containing optionally injected electrolysis brine 332 is flowed through electrolysis unit 330 to form acid stream 364 containing acidic water and base stream 362 containing alkali water.
  • Acidic water from acid stream 364 is directed into acid storage tank 366 or base stream 362 by acid-stream valve 365.
  • Acidic water from acid storage tank 366 is pumped outside of electrolysis recirculation loop 336 to either acid-entry valve 363 or capacitive deionization cleaning valve 367 by acid storage pump 368.
  • softened water containing optionally injected electrolysis brine, acidic water, and/or alkali water is optionally injected with detergent 340 and/or fabric enhancer 342, mixed at mixer 350, and flowed through outlet water valve 316 into hot water 315 and/or cold stream 317 and through hot wash zone inlet 304 and/or cold wash zone inlet 305 into wash zone 303.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Water Treatment By Electricity Or Magnetism (AREA)
  • Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)
  • Treatment Of Fiber Materials (AREA)
  • Washing And Drying Of Tableware (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système de lavage pour le nettoyage à l'intérieur d'une zone de lavage comprenant au moins une entrée pouvant être mise en communication fluidique avec une eau d'alimentation. Au moins une zone de traitement est en communication fluidique avec l'entrée, cette zone de traitement comprenant une zone d'adoucissement de l'eau, une zone d'électrolyse, une zone de dosage et des combinaisons de celles-ci. Au moins une sortie est en communication fluidique avec la zone de traitement pouvant être mise en communication fluidique avec la zone de lavage.
EP05810296A 2004-10-18 2005-10-18 Procédé et dispositif de lavage Withdrawn EP1802801A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/967,757 US20050252532A1 (en) 2004-05-17 2004-10-18 Method and system for washing
US11/130,713 US20050252538A1 (en) 2004-05-17 2005-05-17 Device and system for improved cleaning in a washing machine
PCT/US2005/037564 WO2006044951A2 (fr) 2004-10-18 2005-10-18 Appareil et système pour améliorer le lavage d'un lave-linge

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1802801A2 true EP1802801A2 (fr) 2007-07-04

Family

ID=35734003

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05810296A Withdrawn EP1802801A2 (fr) 2004-10-18 2005-10-18 Procédé et dispositif de lavage

Country Status (5)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1802801A2 (fr)
JP (1) JP2008515568A (fr)
KR (1) KR20070054251A (fr)
RU (1) RU2007118655A (fr)
WO (1) WO2006044951A2 (fr)

Families Citing this family (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1739207A3 (fr) * 2005-06-27 2007-10-03 Unilever N.V. Dispositig et méthode de génération de péroxyde
KR101192001B1 (ko) 2007-04-06 2012-10-18 삼성전자주식회사 세탁기
DE202007005471U1 (de) * 2007-04-16 2007-06-14 V-Zug Ag Wasserführendes Gerät mit Elektrodialyse-Zelle
IL184046A (en) * 2007-06-19 2012-07-31 Lev Gurevich Method and systems with cycle
DE102010001342A1 (de) * 2010-01-28 2011-08-18 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH, 81739 Desinfektionsmodul für eine Geschirrspülmaschine
US8702873B2 (en) 2011-01-17 2014-04-22 General Electric Company Chlorine generating device and related dishwasher
US20140053611A1 (en) * 2012-08-22 2014-02-27 Ecolab Usa Inc. Use of ingredient water in cleaning applications
GB2557260A (en) * 2016-12-02 2018-06-20 Reckitt Benckiser Finish Bv Electrolytic system for automatic dishwashing
CN106637842A (zh) * 2017-01-13 2017-05-10 无锡小天鹅股份有限公司 用于洗衣机的进水系统及具有其的洗衣机
CN111334988B (zh) * 2018-12-19 2023-05-26 青岛海尔洗涤电器有限公司 衣物处理设备
RU2769302C1 (ru) * 2021-07-21 2022-03-30 Игорь Анатольевич Страбыкин Устройство и способ ультразвуковой мойки

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0467028A1 (fr) * 1990-07-18 1992-01-22 Zanussi Elettrodomestici S.p.A. Procédé de traitement de l'eau pour une machine à laver
JPH09140653A (ja) * 1995-11-27 1997-06-03 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd 食器類洗浄器および食器類の洗浄方法
DE19630089C1 (de) * 1996-07-26 1997-10-16 Brochier Wasser Und Abwasserte Verfahren zur Aufbereitung von Abwasser mittels Membranfiltration
JP2001070221A (ja) * 1999-08-19 2001-03-21 Variety Box:Kk 食器洗浄システム
JP2003154195A (ja) * 2001-11-19 2003-05-27 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd 電気洗濯機
WO2005116320A1 (fr) * 2004-05-17 2005-12-08 The Procter & Gamble Company Procede et systeme de lavage et de recyclage avec une solution concentree de lavage

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS605279A (ja) * 1983-06-20 1985-01-11 Miura Co Ltd 硬水軟化装置の硬度漏れ検出方法

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0467028A1 (fr) * 1990-07-18 1992-01-22 Zanussi Elettrodomestici S.p.A. Procédé de traitement de l'eau pour une machine à laver
JPH09140653A (ja) * 1995-11-27 1997-06-03 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd 食器類洗浄器および食器類の洗浄方法
DE19630089C1 (de) * 1996-07-26 1997-10-16 Brochier Wasser Und Abwasserte Verfahren zur Aufbereitung von Abwasser mittels Membranfiltration
JP2001070221A (ja) * 1999-08-19 2001-03-21 Variety Box:Kk 食器洗浄システム
JP2003154195A (ja) * 2001-11-19 2003-05-27 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd 電気洗濯機
WO2005116320A1 (fr) * 2004-05-17 2005-12-08 The Procter & Gamble Company Procede et systeme de lavage et de recyclage avec une solution concentree de lavage

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
RU2007118655A (ru) 2008-11-27
WO2006044951A3 (fr) 2006-10-26
WO2006044951A2 (fr) 2006-04-27
JP2008515568A (ja) 2008-05-15
KR20070054251A (ko) 2007-05-28

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20050252538A1 (en) Device and system for improved cleaning in a washing machine
AU2005244917B2 (en) Method and system for washing
AU2005248346B2 (en) Method and system for washing with wash liquor cleanup and recycle
EP1802801A2 (fr) Procédé et dispositif de lavage
CN101044278B (zh) 改善洗衣机清洁能力的装置和系统
US20050252533A1 (en) Method and system for washing
CN102666963B (zh) 具有除盐装置的洗衣机以及衣物处理方法
CA2564409C (fr) Procedes de lavage de lessive impliquant un tri reduit
EP1605089A1 (fr) Procédé et appareil pour laver avec purification et recyclage du liquide laveur
EP1598468A1 (fr) Procédé et appareil pour laver avec purification et recyclage du liquide laveur
EP1598471A1 (fr) Procédé et dispositif de lavage
EP1598465A1 (fr) Procédé et dispositif de lavage
EP1598469A1 (fr) Procédé et appareil pour laver avec purification et recyclage du liquide laveur

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20070403

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20161116

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION IS DEEMED TO BE WITHDRAWN

18D Application deemed to be withdrawn

Effective date: 20171010