JP2006505718A - Fabric article processing method and appliance including heating means - Google Patents

Abstract

A fabric article treating device for use with a fabric article drying appliance. The fabric article treating device dispenses a benefit composition into a chamber so as to provide benefits to fabric articles contained within the fabric article drying appliance. The treating device includes a means of heating the benefit composition.

Description

  The present invention relates to a removably attached processing tool for use with a fabric article dryer (a non-limiting example of which includes a clothes dryer). The treatment instrument may be a stand-alone separate instrument. The treatment implement dispenses the effect composition through a nozzle that directs the effect composition into a chamber (a non-limiting example of which includes a garment dryer drum) and is placed in a fabric article dryer. Has an effect. The treatment instrument includes 1) one or more effect composition sources, 2) a dispensing means, and 3) one or more means for heating the effect composition. The processing instrument may also include a power source.

  Various methods and / or instruments for removing fabric wrinkles are well known in the art, particularly those that use heat, mechanical, or chemical energy. Wrinkle removal is made more effective by using more than one type of energy. For example, some wrinkle removal may be achieved by fiber lubrication with chemical energy, but a more effective means is then to add mechanical energy to the fabric by pulling the item into the desired shape That is. In an alternative method, chemical energy is supplemented by heating the composition. While the above method has been found to be effective to some extent for wrinkle removal, it often does not lead to fully satisfactory results.

  The most effective means of removing wrinkles uses all three energy types: heat, mechanical, and chemical energy. Without being bound by theory, the chemicals provide the necessary lubrication for wrinkle removal, while the addition of heat and mechanical energy adds the necessary breakage of the hydrogen bonds that hold the wrinkles properly. It is believed that energy will be provided. Conventional equipment, such as home irons, has been found to be very effective at removing wrinkles by providing all three energy types by pressure, water, and heat. Moreover, it has been found that when the chemical is heated, for example water vapor, which is even more effective. However, regardless of satisfactory results, ironing is often a labor intensive process that requires considerable preparation and processing on a piece by piece basis.

  Efforts have been made to reduce the labor required to provide the three energy types to obtain optimal wrinkle removal, including spray equipment built into the clothes dryer. U.S. Pat. No. 2,846,776 claims to disclose a dispenser incorporated into a garment dryer for adding liquid to the garment following the drying operation. U.S. Pat. No. 4,207,683 claims to disclose the incorporation of a spray nozzle, control valve, and water line into a garment dryer for spraying water onto the garment. A drawback common to these integrated distributors is the cost and complexity they add to the dryer. In addition, since these instruments are built into the dryer, there is little flexibility for the user. For example, if a built-in instrument as described above is malfunctioning, the dryer needs to be repaired. This results in significant inconvenience and costly repairs for the user. In addition, the dryer is not operational during the repair period.

  Thus, it has long been felt that optimal wrinkle removal requires the provision of heat, mechanical and chemical energy in a convenient and cost effective manner. The processing instrument of the present invention can be removably attached to a dryer. The treatment instrument of the present invention may be a separate self-supporting instrument. The treatment tool provides convenient wrinkle removal by releasing the heated effect composition into the fabric article dryer to effect the fabric article contained in the fabric article dryer. In addition, the processing instrument of the present invention provides additional convenience to the user by reducing the complexity, cost and inconvenience associated with the instrument incorporated in the dryer.

  The present invention relates to a processing instrument removably attached for use with a fabric article dryer. The treatment tool dispenses the effect composition through a nozzle that directs the effect composition into the chamber and provides an effect to the fabric article placed in the fabric article dryer. The treatment apparatus includes 1) one or more effect composition sources, 2) dispensing means, and 3) one or more means for heating the effect composition. The processing instrument may also include a power source. The treatment instrument may be a stand-alone separate instrument.

The present invention also relates to an apparatus for treating fabric, said apparatus for treating fabric comprising:
a) a fabric article dryer; and b) a fabric article processor that is removably attachable to the fabric article dryer. The treatment device comprises at least one means for heating the effect composition and includes a distributor for dispensing the effect composition.

The invention further relates to a method for treating a fabric. The method is
a) Providing a fabric article processing instrument, the fabric article processing instrument comprising:
i) at least one source of the effect composition;
ii) including at least one means for heating the effect composition; and iii) a dispensing means for dispensing the effect composition into the fabric article dryer.
b) providing a fabric article dryer;
c) placing the fabric to be treated into a fabric article dryer;
d) removably attaching the fabric article processing implement to the fabric article dryer;
e) heating the effect composition; and f) dispensing the heated effect composition into a fabric article dryer.

  As used herein, the phrase “fabric article processing device” means a fabric article dryer, non-limiting examples of which include a conventional garment dryer and / or a modified version thereof. The fabric article processing apparatus also includes a fabric article processing apparatus that can be used to release the effect composition. The fabric article handling implement is removably associated with the fabric article dryer and non-separate such as a separate implement associated with the fabric article dryer by conventional methods such as Velcro®, magnets, straps, etc. May include a limited embodiment; or may be an instrument incorporated into the closure structure of an easily removable fabric article dryer that is substantially or completely independent of the control of the fabric article dryer. .

  As used herein, “fabric article” means any article that has been customarily washed in a conventional laundry or dry cleaning process. The term includes fabric articles, including but not limited to garments, linens and curtains, garment accessories, leather, floor coverings and the like. The term also encompasses other items made entirely or partially of fabric, non-limiting examples of which include tote bags, furniture covers, waterproof fabrics, shoes, and the like.

  As used herein, the term “effect composition” refers to a composition used to produce an effect on a fabric article. Non-limiting examples of substances and mixtures thereof that can include an effective composition include water, softeners, crispening agents, fragrances, water / stain avoidance agents, refreshing agents, antistatic agents, antibacterial agents, permanents Examples include press agents, wrinkle inhibitors, odor suppressors, antiwear agents, solvents, and combinations thereof.

  As used herein, “conduit” means a flow path or passage through which an effect composition can be transferred. Non-limiting examples of conduits include tubes, pipes, flow paths, etc. that can transfer the composition from point to point within a fabric article handling device. For example, the conduit may transfer the effect composition from the dispensing means to a discharge point such as a nozzle.

  The phrase “in the thermal pathway” as used herein refers to any location between a heat source and one or more appliance components associated with the effect composition and / or the effect composition itself. And also includes those in direct and / or indirect contact with the one or more components. Non-limiting examples of heat sources include fabric article dryers, exothermic reactions, heating coils, thermoelectric means, and the like.

  The phrase “thermally conductive material” as used herein is used to describe any material having a thermal conductivity or k value of about 5 W / (m · ° C.) or higher at 25 ° C. The The thermal conductivity of a material is described as “Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Guarded. -Hot-Plate Apparatus) ", or by a protective hot plate method as described in ASTM method C177-97 or other suitable methods known to those skilled in the art.

  As used herein, the term “dryer” or “dryer” or “fabric article dryer” may or may not perform a true drying function, but attempts to literally dry the fabric itself. Includes devices that may involve treating the fabric without. As noted above, the term “dryer” or “dryer” or “fabric article dryer” encompasses a “dry cleaning” process or apparatus that may or may not involve a drying step literally. Also good.

  In addition, it should be noted that some dryers include a drying chamber (or drum) that does not literally move or rotate while the dryer is performing a drying cycle. Some such dryers use an air flow through the drying chamber that does not move during the drying cycle. Such example dryers have doors or other types of access covers that allow a person to insert clothes to be dried into the chamber. Often, a person "hangs" clothing on some type of upper rod in the drying chamber. Once that is done, the door (or access cover) is closed and the dryer can begin its drying function. A spray cycle can be performed in such a unit, but some fabric items receive very few (or zero) effect compositions while some fabric items receive very many effect compositions. Care should be taken to ensure that the effect composition is well dispersed in the drying chamber so that it is not concentrated.

  As used herein, the term “door” refers to a movable closure structure that allows access to the interior volume of the dryer and is in virtually any physical form that allows such access. Can do. The door “closing structure” may be a lid on the top surface of the dryer, or some kind of hatch.

(Clothing article processing equipment)
The present invention relates to a fabric article processing apparatus capable of providing a heated effect composition. The processing instrument may be a separate stand-alone instrument. The instrument may be removably attached to the dryer. The processing tool may be controlled substantially or completely independent of the controller of the fabric article dryer.

  Non-limiting examples of removably mounted include conventional methods such as Velcro®, magnets, straps and the like. Alternatively, the processing equipment may be incorporated into a readily removable fabric article dryer closure structure (a non-limiting example of which is a dryer door) that is independent of the dryer controller.

(Effect composition heating means)
The fabric article processing apparatus includes one or more heating means disposed in a thermal path between the fabric article dryer and one or more components of the fabric article processing apparatus and / or the effect composition itself. As used herein, the phrase “heating means” can include thermally conductive materials, heating coils, exothermic reactions, thermoelectric heating, resistance heating, and combinations thereof, where the heating means is applied to the fabric article. Heat is provided to the effect composition prior to contacting and / or prior to contacting the interior of the fabric article dryer.

  The heating means is thermally associated with the effect composition before the effect composition contacts the interior surface of the fabric article dryer and / or the fabric article. As used herein, the phrase “thermally associated” refers to one or more components (including the effect composition itself) of the fabric article treatment device associated with the heating means and the effect composition. During which the effect composition increases in temperature by at least about 5 ° C. above the ambient temperature of the air outside the fabric article dryer. Non-limiting examples of components of a fabric article treatment device associated with the effect composition include reservoirs, conduits, discharge points such as nozzles, and the like.

(A. Thermally conductive material)
In one embodiment of the present invention, the effect composition is heatable by means of a thermally conductive material in a heat path between the effect composition and one or more heat sources. Non-limiting examples of heat sources include clothes dryers, heating coils, exothermic reactions, thermoelectric heating, resistance heating, infrared heating, induction heating and the like.

  While it is possible to enclose the entire fabric article processing device with a thermally conductive material, it may also be beneficial from an economic point of view to surround only one or more components of the device with a thermally conductive material. Suitable locations for the thermally conductive material include one or more components of the instrument thermally associated with the effect composition, non-limiting examples of which include an effect composition source, a conduit, a reservoir, Or a combination of these is included. Non-limiting examples of benefit composition sources can include storage tanks, domestic water supplies, cartridges, pouches, and the like.

  The thermally conductive material has a thermal conductivity or k value of about 5 W / (m · ° C.) or more at 25 ° C. Non-limiting examples of such materials include metallic materials, ceramic materials, composite materials with thermally conductive fillers, and combinations thereof.

  Suitable examples of the thermally conductive metal material include, but are not limited to, aluminum, copper, tin, silver, and the like. The metallic material may be in the form of a rigid plate, in the form of a conformable foil sheet, and may surround one or more components of the instrument associated with the effect composition. The thickness of the metal material can be about 0.1 mm to about 100 mm.

  Non-limiting examples of quasi-metallic or non-metallic thermally conductive materials include low thermal conductive materials having a thermally conductive filler, such as polyurethane or polyethylene having a nitride filler. Non-limiting examples of thermally conductive fillers include aluminum, copper, magnesium, silver, carbon, graphite, ceramic materials, zinc oxide, aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride, boron nitride, silicon nitride, boron carbide, aluminum carbide, carbonized Examples include silicon, organosiloxanes, and combinations thereof. The low thermal conductivity material may have from about 10% to about 80% by weight of the thermal conductive filler. Suitable commercially available fillers are available from GE Advanced Ceramics, Cleveland, Ohio, under the trade name PolarTherm ™. A suitable example of a polymer and thermally conductive filler premix is available from Cool Polymers, Warwick, Rhode, under the trade name CoolPoly® RS012, which is polyphenylene sulfide. It consists of a system material and has a thermal conductivity of 10 W / (m · ° C.) at 25 ° C.

  In addition, the thermally conductive material may be tied to other components of the fabric article processing device with a thermally conductive epoxy or tape. These thermally conductive epoxies and / or tapes usually (but not always) contain a metal or some form of silicon and serve for further heat conduction. Examples of suitable commercially available thermally conductive epoxies are the epoxy adhesive TC-2707, and an example of thermally conductive tape is TC-8805, both available from 3M company, St. Paul, Minnesota. It is.

(B. Heating coil)
In yet another embodiment of the invention, the heating of the effect composition is performed via a heating coil that is thermally associated with the effect composition and / or one or more components associated with the effect composition. It can also be achieved by providing heating. With reference to FIGS. 3-4, the heating coil 40 may be located anywhere in and / or on the fabric article processing device 1 and / or associated with the effect composition source 10. It may be thermally associated with one or more components. The heating coil 40 may be associated with the effect composition by direct contact, by indirect contact, or a combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of components of a fabric article treatment device that may be associated with an effect composition include a drain point such as reservoir 10, conduit 20, nozzle 50, or combinations thereof.

  Further, the heating coil 40 may use a power source 100 such as one or more batteries and / or a household current source. If a battery is used as the power source 100 and an additional current is desired, the high voltage power source 200 may also be used.

  Common materials for the heating coil include, but are not limited to, copper, nickel, nichrome (nickel-chromium alloy), stainless steel, and the like. In one non-limiting embodiment, the effect composition is heated to a temperature of about 30 ° C. to about 70 ° C. by a heating coil.

(C. Exothermic reaction)
In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the effect composition can be heated by means of an exothermic reaction. An exothermic reaction may occur in the effect composition or at a location adjacent to but thermally associated with the effect composition.

  The exothermic composition may be disposable or reusable. The reusable exothermic composition may comprise a supersaturated solution such as sodium acetate, which can be regenerated by re-dissolving the crystals into the solution by heating.

  The exothermic composition may be held in a container. Suitable container materials for the exothermic reaction composition include, but are not limited to, polypropylene, polyvinyl acetate, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, and the like. The thickness of these materials can be about 0.1 mm to about 30 mm.

(1) Metal oxidation exothermic reaction The metal oxidation exothermic reaction requires several components to complete the electrochemical reaction: anode, cathode, water, oxygen, and preferably one or more electrolytes. In addition, the components of the exothermic reaction include liquids and solids, which are generally stored separately until ready for use. The anode and cathode are usually solid, but the electrolyte can be either in solid form or part of an aqueous solution.

  The anode includes a metal source, non-limiting examples of which include metal powders of iron, copper, magnesium, chromium, manganese, aluminum, zinc, or combinations thereof. The metal source can have a small particle size but a large reactive surface area. A suitable average particle size is from about 20 μm to about 1000 μm. The metal source can have from about 30% to about 80% by weight of the solid composition, for example as iron powder.

  The cathode of the exothermic reaction may include activated carbon, inactive carbon, or a combination thereof. The cathode carbon may be derived from, but not limited to, coconut shell, wood, charcoal, bone and the like. The cathode can have from about 3% to about 20% by weight of the composition as activated carbon having a small particle size and a large reactive surface area. Suitable activated carbons typically have an average particle size of about 20 μm to about 1000 μm and are available under the trade name Nu Char from Westvaco, Covington, Virginia.

  The exothermic component may also include one or more electrolytes to further accelerate the reaction by providing electrical conductivity between the anode and the cathode. The electrolyte may be in dry form and contained in the same container as the anode and / or cathode, or may comprise a portion of an aqueous solution that is stored separately from the metal powder (anode). Suitable electrolytes are metal salts, including alkali metal salts, alkaline earth metal salts, and transitions, including sulfates, chlorides, carbonates, acetates, nitrates, nitrites, sulfites, and chlorates. Examples include, but are not limited to, metal salts. Non-limiting examples of electrolytes include ferric sulfate, potassium sulfate, sodium sulfate, manganese sulfate, magnesium sulfate, cupric chloride, cuprous chloride, potassium chloride, sodium chloride and the like. The electrolyte may include sodium chloride, which may be in the form of a dry powder housed with the anode, for example, at a concentration of about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of the solid composition. When the electrolyte is an aqueous solution, the concentration can range from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the aqueous solution.

  The exothermic component may also include one or more absorbent materials for the purpose of gradually supplying water and / or electrolyte solution to the anode. The absorbent material may be in the same container as the anode and cathode, in a separate container, or a combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of water-absorbing materials include vermiculite, porous silicate, carboxycellulose salt, wood powder and / or fine powder, cotton cloth having a large surface area, and the like. The water retaining material may have from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight of the solid composition.

  In one embodiment, the metal oxidation component is provided in more than one container. The first container typically includes an anode and a cathode and any absorbent material. When the electrolyte is in dry form, it may be in the same container as the anode and cathode, and the second container may contain an aqueous solution. In a variation of this embodiment, the electrolyte is an aqueous solution and may be stored in a container separate from the anode, cathode, and any absorbent material. The aqueous solution may be water or an aqueous electrolyte solution, but is usually present in an amount of about 10% to about 50% by weight of the total exothermic component. The second container may be stored in the same compartment as the first container, and may be a pouch that can be pierced with a sharp object such as a pin to start the reaction. Addition of the contents of the first and second containers may be accomplished by a frangible pouch, and an exothermic reaction can be initiated when the seal between the two containers is broken.

  In an alternative embodiment, the solid metal oxidizing component may be provided in one container. The container may include an anode, a cathode, an electrolyte in solid form, and any absorbent material. The user of the instrument can then initiate an exothermic reaction by adding water to the composition.

(2) Saturated salt exothermic reaction:
In yet another variation of this embodiment, the exothermic reaction can be a reusable supercooled saturated salt solution associated with a metal reaction trigger. The saturated salt solution and the metal trigger may be placed in the same container. When the metal trigger is bent by the user, it can then initiate salt crystallization, which generates heat. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that bending a metal strip forms a fine continuum along the slit or crack to initiate crystallization. Non-limiting materials suitable for the trigger include ferrous materials, beryllium copper alloys, and the like, and have multiple slits or cracks. In a non-limiting example, when a vessel containing a saturated solution of sodium acetate and a ferrous metal trigger is bent, heat in the range of about 35 ° C to about 75 ° C is generated.

  Non-limiting examples of salts suitable for saturated salt solutions include sodium acetate, calcium nitrate tetrahydrate and the like. The saturated salt solution can include sodium acetate and water in a weight ratio of about 1: 1 to about 2: 1. The solution is generally made by placing water, salt, and a metal trigger in the pouch and then sealing. Next, the contents of the pouch are heated to about 60 ° C. or higher (in the case of sodium acetate), and the salt becomes a solution. Thereafter, the pouch can be supercooled. As used herein, “supercooling” means cooling the material to below the freezing point without solidifying and / or crystallizing.

  After use, the saturated salt composition can then be regenerated by heating the solution to just above the melting point of the crystals to resolubilize the crystals. In a non-limiting example, the sodium acetate composition is regenerated by heating the composition to about 60 ° C. or higher to resolubilize crystals from the exothermic reaction. Non-limiting and suitable means for solution reheating include microwave ovens, immersion in boiling water, and the like.

(3) In situ exothermic reaction In yet another variant, the exothermic reaction component may comprise the effect composition itself, and the effect composition may act as a component of the exothermic reaction. As used herein, the phrase “in situ exothermic composition” is a composition comprising the effect composition itself, which is dispensed into and / or onto the fabric article dryer. As such, it refers to a composition dispensed from a fabric article processing implement. In situ exothermic reactions include solutes and solvents, which are usually (but not always) essentially aqueous. The addition of the solvent may be performed simultaneously with the addition of the solute, before and / or after, thereby providing heat by an exothermic reaction. The addition of the solvent may take place prior to the addition of the solute and in the effect composition source. In an alternative embodiment, the solute and solvent may be added outside the effect composition source and then added to the source. In yet another embodiment, the solute and solvent are contained in separate reservoirs (sources of effect composition) where they are transferred to a common conduit to mix two or more components. The solvent may be present in the reaction in an amount of about 50% to about 99.9% by weight and is usually (but not always) essentially aqueous.

  Non-limiting examples of suitable exothermic reactions including adding water to the system include dissolution, hydration, acid dissociation and the like. The exothermic reaction can have an enthalpy of −1 kJ / mol or less, preferably -5 kJ / mol or less at 25 ° C. when measured at 25 ° C. The enthalpy of the reaction can generally be obtained by subtracting the sum of the enthalpies of the reactants from the sum of the enthalpies of the product, which can be obtained by any suitable reference known to those skilled in the art, such as “Chemical and Chemical”. It can be found in “The Handbook of Chemistry and Physics” and “Perry's Chemical Engineer's Handbook”.

  Examples of exothermic dissolution reactions often involve adding one or more solutes to the solvent so that the amount of solute present is from about 0.1% to about 50% by weight of the composition. The solute may be a solid, a gas, a liquid, or a combination thereof. In an alternative embodiment, the solute may be added after the addition of a solvent such as water, but may be added simultaneously with and / or before the addition of the solvent. Non-limiting preferred examples of solutes that are exothermic in water include ammonia (gaseous), sodium hydroxide, lithium bromide, sodium acetate, potassium acetate, potassium hydroxide, zinc chloride, and the like.

  Examples of non-aqueous exothermic reactions include, but are not limited to, adding lauric acid to carbon tetrachloride, urethane to chloroform, urethane to methanol, acetone to acetic acid, and heptane to isobutanol. In an alternative mode of operation, the clothes dryer temperature is below the flash point of the solvent and / or solute.

  In contrast, exothermic dilution reactions require the addition of a replenishing solvent to the composition, which generates heat. In the exothermic dilution reaction, an acid may be used with the addition of an aqueous solvent (such as water). Non-limiting examples of suitable acids include nitric acid, sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, maleic acid, picric acid, acetic acid, and combinations thereof.

(D. Thermoelectric module)
Heating of the effect composition can also be achieved by the use of thermoelectric modules, for example those obtained by reverse Peltier modules. As used herein, the phrase “reverse Peltier module” refers to the use of a Peltier module, in which the heat sink is one or more of the fabric composition treating device associated with the effect composition and / or effect composition. Non-limiting examples of such components include sources of effect compositions, conduits, nozzles, and the like. In general, a reverse Peltier module / effect can be achieved by applying a voltage to the module, and the movement of electrons transfers heat from one side of the module to another. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the inverse Peltier module operates in the following manner as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 13:
1) Module 500 includes at least one conductive material 530, preferably a negative semiconductor material, and at least one dissimilar conductive material 540, preferably a positive semiconductor material, which are electrically Are connected in series but thermally in parallel and sandwiched between two ceramic substrates 510 disposed between a heated component and a heat source such as a fabric article dryer (not shown). 2) When DC power is applied to the electrical interconnect 520e, electrons flow to the positively doped semiconductor material 540, thereby cooling the components to be cooled and the positively doped semiconductor material 540. And heat is absorbed at the electrical connection 520d between the junction and the negatively doped semiconductor material 530; 3) the electrons then pass through the negatively doped semiconductor material 530. Flow to the electrical connection 520c, whereby heat is transferred to the second junction between the negatively doped semiconductor material 530 and another positively doped semiconductor material 540, and 4) heat Is transferred from this second joint 520c to a heat sink 550 in thermal communication with an effect composition source (or other component associated with the effect composition), thereby transferring the effect from the dryer to the effect composition. Heat is transferred to the associated component.

  Each module 500 for the Peltier effect is composed of at least one conductive material and another dissimilar conductive material. Although the conductive materials may include different metals, in a preferred embodiment, module 500 includes at least one negatively doped semiconductor material 530 and at least one positively doped semiconductor material 540. Negatively and positively doped semiconductor materials are electrically connected in series but thermally connected in parallel. Further, the semiconductors (540 and 530) and their electrical interconnects 520 are bridged between the two ceramic substrates 510. The first ceramic substrate 510 is in thermal communication with both the component to be cooled and the semiconductor material (540 and 530). The second ceramic substrate 510 is in thermal communication with the semiconductor material (530 and 540) and a heat source. The heat sink 550 is further in thermal communication with one or more components associated with the effect composition, wherein when current is applied to the semiconductor material, the accumulated heat is transferred to the effect composition and / or the effect composition. Delivered to one or more components of the thermally associated instrument. For greater heating effects, two or more modules 500 can be used even when stacked in parallel.

  Generally, the semiconductor material is often, but not always, an alloy of bismuth telluride, lead telluride, silicon germanium, and / or bismuth antimony. The semiconductor material can include equal and distinct ratios of both P-type and N-type crystalline bismuth telluride, although other ratios are also effective. As used herein, an “N-type” semiconductor material is a negative type that is doped with more electrons than is necessary to create a complete molecular lattice structure, whereas a “P-type” semiconductor. The material is a positive type doped with electrons that are insufficient to be required to create a complete molecular lattice structure. Without being bound by theory, the extra electrons in the N-type material and the “missing” electrons (or holes) from the P-type material transfer the thermal energy from one end of the semiconductor material to the other. It is thought to promote.

  The heat sink 550 is typically provided with fins in such a way as to maximize the surface area of the material. The heat sink can be composed of aluminum, copper, silver, etc., but other conductive materials may be used.

  The DC power source may be any power source such as a household current source or a battery. In general, the power applied to the module can be about 12V, although higher voltages may be used if a greater heat transfer effect is desired.

  Referring to FIG. 7, a reverse Peltier module 310 is disposed between the source 10 of the effect composition and the inner panel of the appliance 1 door. The heat sink of the Peltier module 310 is positioned adjacent to the effect composition source 10 so that heat from a fabric article dryer (not shown) is then directed to the effect composition source 10. Communicated. In this embodiment of the present invention, the surface of the fabric article processing instrument 1 facing the interior of the fabric article dryer is composed of a thermally conductive material, preferably a metal. The Peltier module 310 may be disposed on other components of the instrument 1 associated with the effect composition, non-limiting examples of which include the nozzle 50 or the conduit 20. One example of a thermoelectric module that utilizes the Peltier effect is model 6302/127 / 060AX available from Ferrotec America Corporation, Nashda, NH.

(Power supply)
With reference to FIG. 2, the fabric article processing apparatus 1 may include a power source 100 for supplying power to the components of the fabric article processing apparatus 1. Non-limiting examples of these components include circuit 80, motor 60 for distribution means 30, and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of suitable power sources 100 include reusable or disposable batteries, solar cells, household current sources, and the like. When using a battery as the power source 100, the one or more batteries may be rechargeable or disposable. Suitable and readily available batteries include, but are not limited to, alkaline batteries, lithium batteries, and the like. Examples of suitable alkaline batteries include Energizer No. available from Eveready Battery Company, St. Louis, Missouri. There is an E95, 1.5V Zn / MnO ₂ D cell battery.

(Source of effect composition)
The fabric article processing device 1 additionally comprises one or more source of effect composition 10 associated with the device 1 to supply the effect composition for dispensing into the fabric article dryer. The source 10 of the effect composition can be a reservoir, cartridge, pouch, conduit, domestic water supply, and the like. In addition, the source 10 of the effect composition may be a refillable and / or non-refillable container that contains a finite amount of liquid therein. In yet another embodiment, the source of effect composition may be both a domestic water line and a refillable and / or non-refillable container. The source 10 of the effect composition may be fixedly attached to the fabric article dryer or may be removably attached.

  The source 10 may comprise a first reservoir for containing the effect composition, and additionally may comprise two or more reservoirs for simultaneous or separate distribution with the contents of the first reservoir. .

  The reservoir 10 may also be constructed of a rigid, semi-rigid and / or flexible material. If the effect composition source 10 is composed primarily of a rigid or semi-rigid material, these embodiments add venting means to allow easy flow of the effect composition to the dispensing means 30. May be included.

(Distribution means)
The distribution means 30 may be provided with a motor or without a motor. In general, the dispensing means 30 of the fabric article handling device 1 can be achieved by the use of a motorized pump. One non-limiting example of a motored pump is one that uses hydraulic pressure, such as a peristaltic pump. Other non-limiting motor driven pump mechanisms that can be used include gears, diaphragms, centrifugal, or piston pumps. Suitable pumps generally have an operating pressure in the range of about 1 to about 2,000 kPa, but a pressure of 50 to 1,500 kPa, and / or about 140 to about 1,050 kPa, and / or 100 to 500 kPa. It can also be used.

  Referring to FIG. 4, the distribution means 30 may be of a motorless type in order to save energy used from the power source. Non-limiting examples of motorless dispensing devices include springs, pressurized reservoirs, resilient containers, shape memory alloys, gravity feed mechanisms, capillary action, propellants, syringes, gases (pre-pressurized and / or in situ) Both occurrences, etc.). A preferred example of a motorless dispenser 30 is the “LPD series” piezo pump available from PAR Technologies LLC, Hampton, Virginia.

(High voltage power supply (HVPS))
With reference to FIG. 3, the instrument may also include a high voltage power supply (HVPS) 200, which is optionally used to convert current to power the heating coil 40. The power supply 100 is typically (but not always) one or more batteries with a voltage of 9V or less, and the heating coil may or may not require additional voltage for the desired temperature. Non-limiting examples of suitable miniature regulated high voltage power supplies 200 include C series models such as C50, C60, or C80 available from EMCO High Voltage Corporation of Stutter Creek, California. There is. Other suitable high voltage power supplies 200 include piezo transformers, which use a unique mechanical energy storage system to convert power. These piezo transformers are particularly useful when utilizing ultrasonic spraying. Piezo transformers are available from Fuji & Co. in Japan.

(nozzle)
With reference to FIGS. 1-9 and 12, the fabric article treating apparatus 1 also includes a nozzle 50 through which the effect composition passes during discharge to the interior area of the fabric article and / or fabric article dryer. Usually, it is provided.

  The nozzle 50 may be a spray type nozzle. The misting of the effect composition can be accomplished by the use of any suitable spray device that releases the effect composition, such as a hydraulic nozzle, an ultrasonic atomizer, a high pressure mist nozzle, and the like. Misting may be accomplished using a relatively low volume air atomizing nozzle and / or a simple orifice. For example, spray nozzles (model numbers 850, 1050, 1250, 1450, and 1650) that are commercially available from Spray Systems, Inc. of Pomana, California are suitable. In an alternative embodiment, the composition may be released via more than one spray nozzle.

  In some embodiments, the spray nozzle 50 may use a pressure swirling atomizer similar to that used in the trigger atomizer nozzle, but may also incorporate a fan atomizer or impingement or screen whisk. . An example of a suitable spray nozzle is a pressure swirl spray nozzle manufactured under the model number DU-3813 by Seaquist Dispensing, Curry, Illinois. In another embodiment, the composition is released through a pressurized spray system.

  If desired, the effect composition can be filtered using filters and / or filter techniques. This may be desirable when the heated effect composition is used as a repeated heating of the composition, which can cause concentration of the composition, which can lead to particle formation. Non-limiting examples of filters and / or filter techniques include: using the filter before the nozzle 50 in the instrument 1; filtering the effect composition before injecting it into the effect composition reservoir 10; Such as centrifuging the composition prior to injection into the effect composition reservoir 10, or a combination thereof.

  In an alternative embodiment, the nozzle 50 includes a filter (not shown) introduced in front of the orifice to reduce the possibility of orifice blockage. The design of the nozzle 50 may be such that the filter and spray head can be removed from the rest of the assembly, either individually or as a unit, for cleaning and replacement. The filter may have a pore diameter that is less than or equal to the maximum outlet diameter of the nozzle orifice.

(Signal means)
Furthermore, the instrument may include signal means for conveying information to the user of the instrument, such as visual, auditory, vibration signals, or combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of signal means include blinking light, colored light, non-limiting examples of which include green / red light, beeps, horns, chimes, and vibrations. The signaling means may be useful for displaying the status of the instrument, which in turn may require the user to activate the instrument mechanism.

  With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, non-limiting examples of signal means are shown. The LED light 280, recognizable from the outer surface of the fabric article dryer closure structure, may have different colors that indicate the operating status, especially when the green LED light is for appliance operation, or perhaps the flashing red light is a battery It is a consumption state display.

(Effective composition)
The effect composition can include one or more fabric article actives, and can be a wash, wrinkle remover, finish, and / or deodorant composition, and the like. Further, the effect composition may be in the physical form of a liquid, solid, gas, or a combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of fabric article active substances include solvents, surfactants, wrinkle removers, antistatic agents, anti-shrink agents, antibacterial agents, wetting agents, crystal modifiers, stain removers, colorants, whitening agents. Fragrances, odor reducing agents / eliminating agents, deodorizing agents / refreshers, antifouling agents, coloring enhancers, starches, softeners, and pastes.

  Effective compositions include water, surfactants, fragrances, preservatives, bleaches, cleaning aids, anti-shrink agents, solvents, anti-wrinkle agents, antibacterial agents, wetting agents, crystal modifiers, and mixtures thereof. But you can.

  Exemplary effect compositions herein may comprise at least about 50% water, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably at least about 80% water, based on the weight of water.

  One obstacle to spraying the effect composition into the fabric article dryer is the potential for the effect composition to block the nozzle during use. Several methods can be used to prevent this occlusion, including the use of single phase solutions, high levels of humectants or other moisture retention ingredients, softening of the film with hydrophilic solvents, polymers. Examples include, but are not limited to, the use of ingredients and the addition of hygroscopic salts to the effect composition.

  Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 6, there is shown a fabric article processing apparatus 1 for processing fabric articles according to the present invention. The fabric article treating apparatus 1 dispenses one or more effect compositions into the interior 270 of the fabric article dryer 260 and / or over the fabric articles present in the interior 270 of the fabric article dryer 260. In the manner associated with the fabric article dryer 260. In one embodiment, the contact can occur when the fabric article is moving. In another embodiment, contact can occur when the fabric article is not moving. In yet another embodiment, contact may occur at a point in time when the fabric article is moving and at another time when it is not moving. The fabric may be wet during processing or dry.

  In general, the fabric article processing apparatus 1 may be removably or permanently attached to the interior 270 of the fabric article dryer 260. Non-limiting examples of areas that can be attached include the closure structure 110 of the fabric article dryer 260, the drum (if present) of the fabric article dryer 260, the rear wall, and the like. Non-limiting examples of attachment means include suction cups, hooks, straps, adhesives, Velcro®, magnets, and the like. In yet another embodiment, such as shown in FIGS. 7-8, the fabric article treating device 1 may be incorporated into an easily removable closure structure 110 suitable for use with a fabric article dryer.

  Referring to FIGS. 1-2, there is shown a fabric article processing apparatus 1 for processing fabric articles according to one aspect of the present invention. In this embodiment, the reservoir 10 is composed of a thermally conductive material, and the effect composition is heated by a heat source such as a fabric article dryer (not shown). In a non-limiting example, the reservoir 10 may be a suitable material having a thermal conductivity of 10 W / (m · ° C.) at 25 ° C., for example, Cool Polymers from Warm, Rhode Island. (Trademark) It is comprised with the polyphenylene sulfide type | system | group material etc. which can be obtained with the brand name of RS012. In a typical operation, once the fabric article dryer has been operated in the specified manner, the fabric article processing apparatus 1 is activated subsequently and / or during the start of the processing cycle. In one embodiment, the appliance 1 is activated following the operation of the fabric article dryer, preferably at least about 5 minutes after the start of the drying cycle.

  The fabric article processing instrument 1 can be activated by depressing the switch 21, which in turn activates the motor 60 of the pump 30. The motor 60 is generally, but not always, powered by a power supply 100, which typically includes one or more batteries. The power supply 100 can be connected to the motor 60 by the electric wire 70 and by an arbitrary electronic product substrate 80 for controlling the motor 60.

  When pump 30 is activated, the heated effect composition is withdrawn from reservoir 10 through conduit 20 to nozzle 50. The inner diameter of the conduit can be in the range of about 10 mm or less and / or about 5 mm or less. Optionally, the conduit 20 may additionally include a filter before the nozzle 50. The filter hole diameter may be equal to or smaller than the maximum opening of the nozzle 50.

  The nozzle 50 may even be a fluid spray type spray head and / or a simple orifice through which the effect composition is distributed into the receiving volume of the clothes dryer. A suitable pressure swirl nebulizer is available from Seaquist Dispensing LLC of Curry, Ill. Under model number DU-3813.

  In another embodiment of the invention as shown in FIGS. 3-4, the operation of the instrument is performed in a manner similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. In this embodiment, heating of the effect composition is accomplished by means of a heating coil 40 disposed in the reservoir 10. The heating coil 40 can be placed in or in thermal association with any component of the instrument associated with the effect composition. Non-limiting examples of components associated with the effect composition include reservoir 10, conduit 20, discharge points such as nozzle 50, and combinations thereof.

  In this embodiment, power is supplied to the heating coil 40 by one or more batteries 100 and optionally by a high voltage power source 200, which subsequently heats the effect composition.

  The embodiment shown in FIG. 4 operates in a manner similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3, and is a more economical variant thereof. In order to save the energy of the power supply 100, the distribution means 30 is of the motorless type, non-limiting preferred examples include spring actuated instruments, gravity feed pumps and the like. In addition, the heating coil 40 does not require a high-voltage power supply and can be supplied with power by the battery 100 alone.

  The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 heats the effect composition by means of an exothermic reaction. In this embodiment, the exothermic pouch 160 can be bent and then added through the total reservoir opening 140 to provide heat to the effect composition in the reservoir 10. Non-limiting examples of exothermic pouches include those of metal oxidation reactions, saturated salt solutions, and the like. In another variation of this embodiment, the exothermic reaction can occur in situ, where the solute is added directly to the effect composition in the reservoir 10, thereby generating heat. The solute may be added before the solvent, after, simultaneously, or a combination thereof. In addition, the solute and solvent may be mixed before being placed into the reservoir 10 and then distributed therein.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the effect composition is heated by means of a thermoelectric module 310. The thermoelectric module 310 uses a power source 100 such as a household current source and is arranged such that the heat sink of the module is in thermal communication with one or more effect composition sources 10. Furthermore, the inner panel of the instrument is composed of a thermally conductive material such as steel. Heat is transferred from the fabric article receiving volume of the fabric article dryer to a thermoelectric module 310, such as a Peltier module, which subsequently transfers heat to the effect composition. The thermoelectric module may be in thermal communication with other components associated with the effect composition, non-limiting examples of which include a conduit 20, a discharge point such as a nozzle 50, and the like. One example of a module that utilizes the Peltier effect is model 6302/127 / 060AX available from Ferrotec America Corporation, Nashda, NH.

  The advantage of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 is that the fabric article processing implement 1 is integrated with the dryer closure structure. The fabric article processing instrument 1 can be easily exchanged together with the existing equipment door simply by removing the existing closed structure screw and attaching the fabric article processing instrument 1 of the present invention. This provides the convenience of an integrated fabric article processing instrument, yet nevertheless requires retrofitting to complex and / or expensive existing equipment.

  This embodiment also provides a means for signaling the user of the fabric article processing device 1 by means of LED light 280 or reservoir window 290. The LED light 280 may present, for example, green light indicating an operating condition, or a blinking red light indicating a degraded operating condition, such as a reduced amount of effect composition that can lead to unsatisfactory results. . The level of effect composition is also perceptible through the reservoir window 290, which may be marked with a dose mark indicating the remaining number of uses. In addition, the temperature of the effect composition may also be displayed.

  The embodiment of FIG. 8 is similar in appearance to the embodiment of FIG. 7, but provides heat to the effect composition in a manner similar to the embodiment of FIG. The embodiment of FIG. 8 has an access panel 300, an inner panel 230 of a fabric article processing implement composed of a thermally conductive material such as steel, and a thermal conductivity of 10 W / (m · ° C.) at 25 ° C. And an effect composition source 10 composed of a thermally conductive material, such as a polyphenylene sulfide-based material, which is named CoolPoly® RS012, under the trade name Cool Polymers of Warwick, Rhode Island. Polymers). In this embodiment, heat from the operation of the fabric article dryer is transferred to the effect composition source 10 via the inner panel 230 of the fabric article processing apparatus 1, thereby providing heat to the effect composition.

  9-12 show an alternative embodiment of the fabric article processing instrument 1. The fabric article handling device 1 comprises two housings or enclosures, an inner or inner housing and an outer or outer housing. The inner housing 230 is disposed inside the fabric article dryer. The outer housing 220 is disposed outside the fabric article dryer. The inner housing 230 and the outer housing 220 of the fabric article processing device 1 communicate with each other. Non-limiting examples of communication between the inner housing 230 and the outer housing 220 include telecommunications (electrical signals are transmitted between the inner and outer housings) and composition transfer communication (ie, between the outer and inner housings). When the effect composition is transferred), a temperature difference is transmitted between the outer and inner housings (ie, a non-limiting example is that the effect composition is heated in one housing and the other in the other). To be transferred to the housing). The inner housing 230 and the outer housing 220 may be connected to each other. Non-limiting means for connecting the inner and outer housings include flat cables, electrical wires, and / or conduits 340 (non-limiting examples of which are conduits for transferring effect compositions between the outer and inner housings. Is included). Inner housing 230 may be attached to the fabric article dryer closure structure by attachment strap 210.

  The outer housing 220 can be mounted on the outer surface of the fabric article dryer door, but may be mounted on any external surface, such as non-limiting examples such as side walls, upper walls, outer surfaces of upper open lids, etc. And walls or other home structures away from the fabric article dryer. Further, the inner housing 230 may be mounted on any internal surface of the fabric article dryer, for example, the inner surface of the door, between the inner surface 125 and the outer surface 127 of the closed door 110 as shown in FIG. Examples include, but are not limited to, the drum of the machine, the rear wall, and the inner surface of the upper opening lid.

  The inner and outer housings may be constructed of materials well known to those skilled in the art. Non-limiting examples of such materials include, but are not limited to, polymeric materials and enamel coating metals, including but not limited to polyurethane, polypropylene, polycarbonates, polyethylene, and combinations thereof. Metal.

  The outer housing 220 may be permanently attached to the exterior surface or may be removably attached. Similarly, the enclosure 20 may be permanently attached to the interior surface or may be removably attached.

  The inner housing 230 and the outer housing 220 communicate with each other. The inner housing 230 and the outer housing 220 may be connected to each other. Non-limiting examples of connecting the inner housing 220 and the outer housing 230 include the use of a flat cable 340 (also referred to as “ribbon cable”) as shown in FIGS. Or a wire or set of wires, a conduit (a non-limiting example of which is a conduit for an effect composition), or combinations thereof encased in a non-woven sheath. A woven or non-woven sheath may also be used as a means for attaching the inner housing 230 and the outer housing 220. Inner housing 230 and outer housing 220 may be used to provide a means of gravity balancing to reduce unnecessary tension on the wires and / or housing connections. A typical weight ratio between the inner housing 230 and the outer housing 220 is generally about 1:14 to about 14: 1. Inner housing 230 and outer housing 220 may also be in electrical and / or fluid communication. There is also a reservoir 10 for the effect composition, means for heating the effect composition, a pump 30 and a discharge nozzle 50. The pump 30 may include a motor 60. A power source 200 may also be included. Additional electronic components 80 may also be included.

  In a non-limiting example of the use of the fabric article processing apparatus 1 as shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 6, one or more fabric articles may be placed in the interior 270 of the fabric article dryer 260. Good. The operator simply presses down the on / off switch 21 on the fabric article processing device 1 for a short time. The dryer 260 is activated in a manner specified by the manufacturer. After a preset time or environmental condition has started, the on / off switch 21 activates the electronic device 80 of the instrument and connects the battery 100 to the pump motor 60 via the wire 70.

  The effect composition is transported from the reservoir 10 through the dispensing means 30 and the conduit 20 and discharged from the nozzle 50 into the fabric article dryer 260. The effect composition may be discharged from the nozzle 50 in the form of a mist. In general, the time to apply the effect composition can be between about 0.5 and about 120 minutes, depending on the choice of cycle and the magnitude of the load. The air temperature during processing can range from about 30 ° C to about 80 ° C, more preferably from about 40 ° C to about 65 ° C. The exhaust duct may be connected to an exhaust line so that the exhaust is vented out of the user's home, as in conventional dryer applications. The duct may be provided with closing means so that it can be closed during the step of applying the effect composition.

  The particular effect composition selected for use in the process can vary greatly depending on the particular desired effect. However, in some modes of operation, the effect composition contains ingredients that can be effective across a variety of fabric article types. Effective compositions can be used, for example, in fabric articles that are only “dry-cleaned” and pure cotton dress shirts that typically require significant scissoring operations following a conventional laundry operation (ie, a laundry and drying cycle at home). It may be suitable.

  In addition, non-verbal instruction information may be present in the fabric article processing device to assist the user in selecting the desired effect composition and processing cycle, etc., as well as equipment, effect composition containers, instructions for use. May be present in one or more of the documents and other articles such as those associated with the fabric article processing apparatus. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that these non-verbal instructional information simplifies the operation of the fabric article processing device and thus provides convenience to the user of the device. Non-verbal instructional information may be visual, auditory, tactile, or vibrational signals, or may include a combination of these signals. Non-limiting examples of non-verbal instruction information include red / green light (stop / progress signal), fluid level windows on the reservoir, icons, beeps, horns, rubber grips, etc. It is. An example of visual indication information is a battery icon, which may be present on the instrument display as an indication to the user that the battery needs to be replaced. In another example, the tactile indication information may include a rubbery portion of the instrument to indicate where the user can comfortably grip the instrument.

  All documents cited in the detailed description of the invention are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety or in related parts. Citation of any document should not be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present invention.

  While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

1 is a front view of an embodiment of a fabric article processing implement made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view taken along line 2-2 of the fabric article processing instrument of FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1 of an alternative embodiment of a fabric article processing tool. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1 of an alternative embodiment of a fabric article processing tool. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1 of an alternative embodiment of a fabric article processing tool. 1 shows an embodiment of an apparatus for treating fabric according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a fabric article processing apparatus according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a fabric article processing apparatus according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fabric article processing implement made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 10 is a perspective view from the opposite angle of the fabric article processing apparatus of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is an elevational view from one side, with a section of the fabric article processing instrument of FIG. 9, taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is an elevational view from one side, taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 9, with a portion of the inner housing portion of the fabric article handling device of FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a thermoelectric module that can be used in accordance with the present invention. The exploded view of another embodiment of the fabric article processing instrument of the present invention.

Claims (14)

An apparatus for processing a fabric, the apparatus for processing the fabric:
a) a fabric article dryer; and b) a fabric article processor that is removably attachable to the fabric article dryer, the appliance comprising at least one means for heating the effect composition; And a device for treating fabric articles, comprising a distributor for dispensing the effect composition.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fabric article handling implement is a separate stand-alone appliance.   The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fabric article dryer further comprises a closure structure, and the fabric article treatment tool is integral with the closure structure. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an effect composition, wherein the effect composition is heated by an exothermic reaction, and preferably the exothermic reaction has an enthalpy of -1 kJ / mol or less at 25 ° C. And the exothermic reaction is:
a) Metal oxidation reaction, preferably the metal oxidation reaction comprises at least one metal, wherein the metal is iron, copper, aluminum, magnesium, manganese, zinc, or other combinations ;
b) a saturated salt reaction, preferably a saturated salt reaction comprising sodium acetate and water;
c) in situ reaction; or d) a combination of a), b), and c),
Is a device. The metal oxidation reaction further comprises at least one electrolyte, the electrolyte:
a) an alkali metal salt, an alkaline earth metal salt, a transition metal salt, or a combination thereof; or b) the metal oxidation reaction further comprises a carbon source, the carbon source being active, inactive, or a combination thereof The device according to claim 1, wherein A device removably attached for attachment to a fabric article dryer, wherein the removably attached device is:
a) at least one source of the effect composition;
b) at least one means for heating the effect composition; and c) a dispensing means for dispensing the effect composition into the fabric article dryer;
Including appliances. The apparatus of claim 6 further includes a power source, wherein the power source is:
a) one or more batteries, wherein the batteries are disposable, rechargeable, or combinations thereof; or b) a household current source; or c) a) and b) combination,
Including appliances.   8. A device according to claims 6 and 7, wherein the source of effect composition is a reservoir, a cartridge, a pouch, or a combination thereof. The dispensing means is a pump, which is:
a) a conduit including an inlet portion and a discharge portion; and b) a nozzle connected to the discharge portion of the conduit;
The inlet portion of the conduit distributes the effect composition from the source of the effect composition through the conduit to the nozzle, thereby distributing the effect composition from the nozzle into the fabric article dryer. A device according to any of claims 6 to 8, in communication with a source of the effect composition. Said means for heating said effect composition comprises:
a) heating coil;
b) a thermally conductive material in a thermal path between the fabric article dryer and the fabric article processing implement, preferably having a thermal conductivity of at least about 5 W / (m · ° C.) at 25 ° C. Sex materials;
c) thermoelectric module; or d) a), b), or c) combination,
The instrument according to any one of claims 6 to 9. A method for treating a fabric, said method comprising:
a) providing a fabric article processing instrument, wherein the fabric article processing instrument comprises:
i) at least one source of the effect composition;
ii) at least one means for heating the effect composition; and iii) comprising a dispensing means for dispensing the effect composition into the fabric article dryer;
b) providing a fabric article dryer;
c) charging the fabric to be treated into the fabric article dryer;
d) removably attaching the fabric article processing implement to the fabric article dryer;
e) heating the effect composition; and f) dispensing the heated effect composition into the fabric article dryer.
Including methods.   The step of heating further includes providing a heat generating composition such that the heat generating composition contacts the effect composition, whereby the temperature of the effect composition is the heat generation composition. The method of claim 11, wherein the method is elevated after contact with an object.   13. The method of claims 11 and 12, further comprising providing instructions for using the exothermic composition such that the effect composition is heated.   Further comprising providing one or more non-linguistic instruction information to a user of the device, wherein the non-linguistic instruction information can be provided to the user before the step (e). 14. A method according to any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the fabric article processing device components are operated and / or adjusted during step (e), after step (e), or in combinations thereof.

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