US20130036775A1 - Metering system for releasing at least three different preparations during a washing programme of a washing machine - Google Patents

Metering system for releasing at least three different preparations during a washing programme of a washing machine Download PDF

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Publication number
US20130036775A1
US20130036775A1 US13/653,566 US201213653566A US2013036775A1 US 20130036775 A1 US20130036775 A1 US 20130036775A1 US 201213653566 A US201213653566 A US 201213653566A US 2013036775 A1 US2013036775 A1 US 2013036775A1
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Prior art keywords
chamber
dispenser
preparation
washing machine
dispensing
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Abandoned
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US13/653,566
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English (en)
Inventor
Erik Brueckner
Arnd Kessler
Christian Nitsch
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Henkel AG and Co KGaA
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Henkel AG and Co KGaA
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Application filed by Henkel AG and Co KGaA filed Critical Henkel AG and Co KGaA
Assigned to HENKEL AG & CO. KGAA reassignment HENKEL AG & CO. KGAA ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: BRUECKNER, ERIK, KESSLER, ARND, NITSCH, CHRISTIAN
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    • 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 
    • D06F39/02—Devices for adding soap or other washing agents
    • D06F39/022—Devices for adding soap or other washing agents in a liquid state
    • 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
    • D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers 
    • D06F33/30—Control of washing machines characterised by the purpose or target of the control 
    • D06F33/32—Control of operational steps, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending on the condition of the laundry
    • D06F33/37—Control of operational steps, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending on the condition of the laundry of metering of detergents or additives
    • 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
    • D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2103/20—Washing liquid condition, e.g. turbidity
    • D06F2103/22—Content of detergent or additives
    • 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
    • D06F2105/00—Systems or parameters controlled or affected by the control systems of washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2105/42—Detergent or additive supply

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to a dispensing system for releasing at least three different preparations during a washing program of a washing machine.
  • Automatic washing agents are available to consumers in numerous presentations. These automatic washing agents are typically offered for sale to the consumer in solid form, for example as a powder or as tablets, but increasingly also in liquid or gel form. For some considerable time, attention has focused on convenient dispensing of washing agents and on simplifying the operations required to carry out a washing method.
  • one of the main objectives of manufacturers of automatic washing agents is to improve the washing performance of these agents, increasing attention having been paid in recent times to washing performance in low temperature washing cycles or in washing cycles with reduced water consumption.
  • new ingredients for example more highly active surfactants, polymers, enzymes or bleaching agents have been added to the washing agents.
  • new ingredients are only available to a limited extent and the quantity of the ingredients used per washing cycle cannot be increased at will for environmental and economic reasons, there are natural limits to this approach to solving the problem.
  • a dispensing system for a washing machine which provides improved dispensing of a plurality of preparations into the treatment compartment of the washing machine.
  • a dispensing system for releasing preparations in the interior of a washing machine comprising a dispenser and a cartridge couplable to the dispenser, in which the cartridge comprises at least three chambers, which contain different flowable preparations, in which the first chamber stores at least one enzyme selected from the group of amylases, mannanases, cellulases, lipases and/or pectate lyases and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent; the second chamber stores at least one protease and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent; and the third chamber stores at least one scent and/or one optical brightener, and/or one softener.
  • the cartridge comprises at least three chambers, which contain different flowable preparations
  • the first chamber stores at least one enzyme selected from the group of amylases, mannanases, cellulases, lipases and/or pectate lyases and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent
  • the second chamber stores at least one protease and at least one
  • a method for releasing preparations in the interior of a washing machine comprising at least one dispenser with at least one sensor, which is suitable for detecting the presence of water in the interior of the washing machine and at least one cartridge couplable to the dispenser, in which the cartridge comprises at least three chambers, which contain different flowable preparations, in which the first chamber stores at least one enzyme selected from the group of amylases, mannanases, cellulases, lipases and/or pectate lyases and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent preferably at a pH value of 6-8; the second chamber stores at least one protease and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent preferably at a pH value of 6-8; and the third chamber stores at least one scent and/or one optical brightener, preferably at a pH value of 6-8, wherein dispensing from the first cartridge chamber occurs in the presence of at least one sensor signal which represents the presence of water in the interior of the washing machine, and dispensing from the second chamber is triggered after
  • FIG. 1 shows a dispensing system for a washing machine with a fluid line opening into the dispensing drawer of the washing machine;
  • FIG. 2 shows a dispensing system for a washing machine with fluid lines opening into the dispensing drawer of the washing machine
  • FIG. 3 shows a dispensing system for a washing machine with a plurality of dispensers
  • FIG. 4 shows an adapter for coupling the dispensing system with a dispensing drawer of a washing machine
  • FIG. 5 shows a dispensing system for a washing machine with a fluid line which is guided through the washing machine door into the treatment compartment;
  • FIG. 6 shows a washing machine with an interface for the dispensing system according to the invention.
  • the dispensing system according to the invention for releasing preparations in the interior of a washing machine comprises
  • the first chamber not to contain any protease and/or scent.
  • the second chamber not to contain any enzyme selected from the group of amylases, mannanases, cellulases, lipases and/or pectate lyases and/or scent.
  • the third chamber not to contain any enzymes.
  • the preparation in the first chamber is adjusted to a pH value of 6-8, the preparation in the second chamber to a pH value of 6-8 and the preparation in the third chamber to a pH value of 6-8, if necessary of 1-3.
  • the preparation in the first chamber it is also conceivable for the preparation in the first chamber to have a pH value of 3-7, the preparation in the second chamber a pH value of 6-8 and the preparation in the third chamber a pH value of 6-8, if necessary of 1-3.
  • the preparation in the first chamber has a pH value of 3-7, the preparation in the second chamber a pH value of 8-12 and the preparation in the third chamber a pH value of 6-8, if necessary of 1-3.
  • the preparation in the first chamber to have a pH value of 6-8
  • the preparation in the second chamber a pH value of 8-12
  • the preparation in the third chamber a pH value of 6-8, if necessary of 1-3.
  • the pH value of the third chamber is here conventionally adjusted to the neutral range of 6-8. Only in the case of preparations in the third chamber, for example textile-softening or antimicrobial compounds, which require an acidic pH value is this accordingly adjusted to the range of 1-3.
  • the dispenser comprises at least one sensor which is suitable for detecting the presence of water in the interior of the washing machine.
  • the dispenser particularly preferably comprises a conductivity sensor and/or temperature sensor.
  • the dispenser is configured such that dispensing from the second chamber is triggered after a predefined time of between 0.1 s and 30 min, preferably of between 0.5 min and 15 min, after dispensing from the first cartridge chamber has taken place.
  • the invention furthermore comprises a method for releasing preparations in the interior of a washing machine, comprising
  • the invention makes it possible to supply liquid washing agent preparation to a washing process with an optimal time delay, such that excellent washing performance may be achieved combined with minimum utilization of raw materials in conjunction with very attractive perfuming of the laundry. Because, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, all the preparations are adjusted substantially to the pH-neutral range, cleaning of the textiles is additionally very gentle on the fibers.
  • FIG. 1 shows a first possible embodiment of the dispensing system 1 according to the invention.
  • the dispensing system 1 consists of a dispenser 5 which is detachably coupled with a cartridge which comprises three chambers 3 a , 3 b , 3 c .
  • the cartridge chambers 3 a , 3 b , 3 c may be individually removed from the dispenser 5 . It is, of course, also possible to construct the cartridge chambers 3 a , 3 b , 3 c as an inseparable cartridge unit.
  • a control unit for controlling the dispenser 5 , an energy source, preferably taking the form of a battery, storage battery or mains plug, and a pump which delivers the preparations from the cartridge chambers 3 a , 3 b , 3 c.
  • a fluid line 7 through which the preparation delivered by the pump is guided to the dispensing drawer 8 of the washing machine 2 .
  • the free, distal end of the fluid line 7 is here positioned in the dispensing drawer 8 . It is also possible to couple the fluid line 7 with the dispensing drawer 8 by means of an adapter provided for this purpose. This point will be addressed in greater detail elsewhere.
  • a preparation dispensed from the dispenser 5 then passes via the dispensing drawer 8 into the treatment compartment 6 of the washing machine 2 .
  • the dispenser 5 dispenses at least one of the preparations from the cartridge chambers 3 a , 3 b , 3 c a in accordance with a dispensing program stored in the control unit.
  • the fluid line 7 may in particular take the form of a flexible tube, preferably of plastics. In this manner, the fluid line 7 may be positioned in the dispensing drawer 8 in a manner which is simple for the user.
  • the fluid line 7 may additionally be configured such that it is non-kinking, i.e. the line cross-section is substantially maintained even if the fluid line 7 is pinched for example by the dispensing drawer 8 or an object standing on the line. It is also conceivable to provide the fluid line 7 as a rigid duct.
  • FIG. 2 shows the dispensing system 1 known from FIG. 1 , a separate fluid line 7 a , 7 b , 7 c being provided for each of the preparations to be released from the cartridge chambers 3 a , 3 b , 3 c .
  • the free distal ends of the fluid lines 7 a , 7 b , 7 c may be positioned in a dispensing compartment of the dispensing drawer 8 or in different dispensing compartments of the dispensing drawer 8 .
  • dispensers 5 a , 5 b , 5 c to form a dispensing system 1 , a cartridge chamber 3 a , 3 b , 3 c , each containing a different preparation, in each case being coupled to each dispenser 5 a , 5 b , 5 c .
  • FIG. 3 Each of the dispensers 5 a , 5 b , 5 c in each case comprises a fluid line 7 a , 7 b , 7 c , the free, distal end of which in each case opens into different dispensing compartments 8 a , 8 b , 8 c of the dispensing drawer 8 .
  • interfaces 10 a , 10 b , 10 c on the washing machine 2 which permit coupling with the dispenser 5 in such a manner that a fluid connection may be produced via the interfaces 10 , 10 a , 10 c between a preferably rigid fluid line 7 a , 7 b , 7 c of the dispenser 5 and the treatment compartment 6 of the washing machine.
  • a cartridge is understood to be a packaging means which is suitable for enclosing or holding together at least one flowable preparation and is couplable to a dispenser for releasing at least one preparation.
  • the cartridge is in particular constructed such that it is provided for storing a plurality of dispensing portions of the preparations to be stored therein.
  • the cartridge is preferably configured for storing 10 to 50, particularly preferably 15 to 30, very particularly preferably 20 to 25 dispensing portions.
  • the cartridge preferably comprises at least three, preferably dimensionally stable, chambers for storing different preparations. It is here preferred for each of the chambers to be configured for storing 10 to 50, particularly preferably 15 to 30, very particularly preferably 20 to 25 dispensing portions.
  • the cartridge comprises at least one outlet orifice which is arranged such that gravity-actuated release of preparation from the cartridge may be brought about in the service position of the dispenser.
  • the cartridge is of single-part construction.
  • the cartridges may be produced inexpensively in a single production step, in particular by suitable blow molding methods.
  • the chambers of a′ cartridge may in this case be separated from one another for example by webs or material bridges, which are formed during or after blow molding.
  • the cartridge may also be of multipart construction, being made of components which are produced by injection molding and then assembled.
  • the cartridge in addition it is conceivable for the cartridge to be of multipart construction such that at least one chamber, preferably all the chambers, may be individually removed from or inserted into the dispenser. This makes it possible to replace an already empty chamber, if particularly heavy use is made of a preparation from one chamber, while the others, which may still be full of preparation, remain in the dispenser. In this way, the individual chambers or their preparations may be replenished in a targeted manner appropriate to the circumstances. It is additionally conceivable to construct the individual chambers in such a way that the chambers may only be coupled together or with the dispenser in a specific position or place, so preventing a user from connecting a chamber with the dispenser in a position not intended for said chamber.
  • the chamber walls may in particular be formed in such a way that they may be connected together interlockingly. It is particularly advantageous, in the case of a cartridge formed of at least three chambers, to form the cartridges such that the chambers may only be connected together interlockingly in a given defined position relative to one another.
  • the chambers of a cartridge may be fixed to one another by suitable connection methods, such that a container unit is produced.
  • the chambers may be detachably or nondetachably fixed to one another by a suitable interlocking, frictional or bonded connection.
  • fixing may be effected by one or more of the connection types from the group of snap-in connections, hook-and-loop connections, press connections, melt connections, adhesive connections, welded connections, brazed connections, screw connections, keyed connections, clamped connections or rebound connections.
  • fixing may also be provided by a heat-shrinkable sleeve, which is drawn in the heated state over all or parts of the cartridge and firmly envelops the chambers or the cartridge in the cooled state.
  • the cartridge may also be of asymmetric construction. It is particularly preferred to make the asymmetry of the cartridge such that the cartridge is only couplable with the dispenser in a predefined position, so preventing incorrect operation by the user which would otherwise be possible.
  • a dispensing chamber may be constructed in or on a chamber upstream of a chamber's outlet orifice in the gravity-actuated direction of flow of the preparation.
  • the dispensing chamber determines the quantity of preparation which, on release of preparation from the chamber, is to be released into the surrounding environment. This is particularly advantageous if the closing element of the dispenser, which effects release of the preparation from a chamber into the surrounding environment, may only be put in a release state and a closed state without the quantity released being measured or monitored.
  • the dispensing chamber then ensures that a predefined quantity of preparation is released without direct feedback of the outflowing quantity of preparation currently being released.
  • the dispensing chambers may be of single-part or multipart construction. It is furthermore possible to make the dispensing chambers firmly connected to or detachable from the cartridge. In the case of a dispensing chamber detachably connected to the cartridge, it is straightforwardly possible to connect dispensing chambers having different dispensing volumes with a cartridge or to interchange the latter, whereby it is straightforwardly possible to adapt the dispensing volumes to the particular preparation stored in a chamber and it is thus straightforwardly possible to make up the cartridge for different preparations and for dispensing them.
  • one or more chambers in each case comprise(s), in addition to an outlet orifice preferably located at the bottom, a second chamber orifice which is closable in liquid-tight manner and preferably located at the top.
  • This chamber orifice makes it possible, for example, to replenish the preparation stored in the chamber.
  • the cartridge may be of any desired three-dimensional shape. It may for example be cubic, spherical or plate-like in form.
  • the cartridge In order to provide direct visual checking of filling level, it is advantageous to form the cartridge at least in portions of a transparent material.
  • the cartridge is in particular of dimensionally stable construction. It is, however, also conceivable to configure the cartridge as a flexible packaging means, such as for instance as a tube. It is furthermore also possible to use flexible containers such as pouches, in particular if they are inserted in a substantially dimensionally stable receiving container in accordance with the “bag-in-bottle” principle.
  • flexible packaging means it is no longer necessary, unlike in the case of the above-described dimensionally stable cartridge configurations, to provide a ventilation system for pressure equalization.
  • the cartridge comprises an RFID label which at least contains information about the contents of the cartridge and is readable by a sensor unit which may in particular be provided in the dispenser or washing machine.
  • This information may, for example, be used in order to select a dispensing program stored in the control unit of the dispenser. In this way it may be ensured that the ideal dispensing program is always used for a specific preparation. It may also be provided that, in the absence of an RFID label or in the case of an RFID label with an incorrect or defective ID, the dispensing device does not dispense but instead an optical or acoustic signal is produced which notifies the user of the error.
  • the cartridges may also comprise structural elements which interact with corresponding elements of the dispenser like a key in a lock, such that for example only cartridges of a particular type are couplable to the dispenser.
  • This development furthermore makes it possible for information about the cartridge coupled to the dispenser to be transmitted to the control unit of the dispenser, whereby the dispensing device may be controlled in a manner adapted to the contents of the corresponding container.
  • all preparations stored in the cartridge are flowable, since this ensures rapid dissolution of the preparations in the washing liquor of the washing machine, as a result of which these preparations have a rapid to immediate cleaning or disinfection or fragrancing action, in particular also on the walls of the washing compartment and/or in the washing water lines.
  • the cartridge conventionally has a total capacity of ⁇ 5000 ml, in particular ⁇ 1000 ml, preferably ⁇ 500 ml, particularly preferably ⁇ 250 ml, very particularly preferably ⁇ 50 ml.
  • the chambers of a cartridge may be of identical or different capacities. In a configuration with three chambers, the volume ratio preferably amounts to 4:1:1. It is particularly preferred for one chamber to contain a first enzyme-containing preparation, a further chamber a second enzymatic preparation and a third chamber a scent-containing preparation, the volume ratio of the chambers approximately amounting to 4:1:1.
  • the chamber containing the alkaline washing agent preparation preferably has the greatest capacity of the chambers present.
  • the chambers which store an enzymatic preparation or a scent-containing preparation preferably have approximately identical capacities.
  • the cartridge preferably has three chambers.
  • one chamber to contain a first enzyme-containing preparation, a further chamber a second enzyme-containing preparation, different from the first, and a third chamber a scent- or fragrance-containing preparation.
  • the cartridge comprises a cartridge bottom, which in the service position is directed downwards in the direction of gravity and in which, preferably for each chamber, there is provided at least one outlet orifice arranged at the bottom in the direction of gravity.
  • the outlet orifices arranged at the bottom are in particular constructed such that at least one, preferably all of the outlet orifices may be connected in communicating manner with the inlet orifices of the dispenser, such that preparation can flow out of the cartridge via the outlet orifices into the dispenser, preferably under the action of gravity.
  • one or more chambers may comprise an outlet orifice which is not arranged at the bottom in the direction of gravity. This is in particular advantageous when for example a scent is to be released into the surrounding environment of the cartridge.
  • the outlet orifices of the cartridge are closed by closing means at least when the cartridge is in the filled, unopened state.
  • the closing means may be constructed such that they permit one-off opening of the outlet orifice by destruction of the closing means.
  • Such closing means are for example sealing films/foils or closing caps.
  • the outlet orifices are in each case provided with a closure which, when in the state coupled with a dispenser, permits outflow of preparation from the respective chambers and, when in the uncoupled state of the cartridge, substantially prevents outflow of preparation.
  • a closure in particular takes the form of a silicone slit valve.
  • the cartridge for coupling with a dispenser positionable in the interior of the washing machine for releasing at least one washing and/or cleaning agent preparation comprises at least one chamber for storing at least one flowable or pourable washing and/or cleaning agent preparation, in which, in the state coupled with the dispenser, the cartridge is protected from ingress of rinsing water into the chamber(s) and the cartridge comprises at least one release orifice at the bottom in the direction of gravity for the, in particular gravity-actuated, release of preparation from at least one chamber and at least one ventilation orifice at the bottom in the direction of gravity for the ventilation of at least one chamber, the ventilation orifice being separate from the release orifice and the ventilation orifice being connected in communicating manner with at least one cartridge chamber.
  • the cartridge comprises at least three chambers. It is here advantageous for in each case a ventilation orifice and a release orifice to be provided for each chamber.
  • the ventilation orifice at the bottom is connected in communicating manner with a ventilation channel, the end of which remote from the ventilation orifice in the release position of the cartridge coupled with the dispenser opens above the maximum filling level of the cartridge.
  • the ventilation channel entirely or in part to be formed in or on the walls and/or webs of the cartridge.
  • the ventilation channel may be formed integrally in or on the walls and/or webs of the cartridge.
  • Coupling of the cartridge with the dispenser should advantageously be configured such that a pin is arranged on the dispenser, which pin is connected in communicating manner with the inlet orifice of the dispenser and interacts with the couplable cartridge or cartridge chamber in such a manner that, during coupling of the ventilation orifice of cartridge or cartridge chamber with the dispenser, the pin displaces a volume ⁇ v in the ventilation channel, whereby a pressure ⁇ p is produced in the ventilation channel which is suitable for conveying the flowable preparation located in the ventilation channel into the chamber which is connected to the ventilation channel and stores the preparation.
  • Ventilation orifice of a chamber prefferably connected in communicating manner with the pin on the dispenser before the closed outlet orifice of the corresponding chamber is opened, for example by a communicating connection with the inlet orifice of the dispenser.
  • the cartridge may be configured such that it may be arranged detachably or fixedly in or on the dispenser and/or a washing machine.
  • the dispensing system comprises a dispenser and a multichamber cartridge which is couplable with the dispenser and contains flowable preparations.
  • the dispenser is configured such that it is capable of dispensing a plurality of preparations from the cartridge chambers into the interior of a washing machine.
  • at least one actuator and/or at least one closing element and/or at least one control unit and/or at least one sensor and/or at least one energy source may be provided in the dispenser.
  • the dispenser may be an installed part of a washing machine.
  • the dispenser is not an installed part of washing machine, but is instead positionable by a user in freely mobile manner in or on a washing machine.
  • the dispenser is arranged detachably or fixedly within the dispensing drawer of the washing machine.
  • the dispenser comprises at least one first interface which interacts with a corresponding interface provided in or on a washing machine such that electrical energy and/or signals is/are transferred from the washing machine to the dispenser and/or from the dispenser to the washing machine.
  • the interfaces take the form of plug-in connectors.
  • the interfaces may be configured such that electrical energy and/or electrical and/or optical signals are transferred wirelessly.
  • the interfaces provided for transmitting electrical energy may be inductive transmitters and receivers of electromagnetic waves.
  • the interface of a washing machine may accordingly in particular be configured as an AC-operated transmitter coil with an iron core and the dispenser interface may be configured as a receiver coil with an iron core.
  • the transfer of electrical energy may also be provided by means of an interface which comprises, on the washing machine side, an electrically operated light source and, on the dispenser side, a light sensor, for example a photodiode or a solar cell.
  • a light sensor for example a photodiode or a solar cell.
  • the light emitted by the light source is converted into electricity by the light sensor, which is then in turn stored, for example, by a storage battery on the dispenser side.
  • an interface is provided on the dispenser and the washing machine for transferring (i.e. transmitting and receiving) electromagnetic and/or optical signals, which in particular represent operating state, measurement and/or control information of the dispenser and/or of the washing machine.
  • Such an interface may in particular be constructed such that electrical energy and/or electromagnetic and/or optical signals is/are transferred wirelessly.
  • the interface is particularly preferred for the interface to be configured for emitting and/or receiving optical signals. It is very particularly preferred for the interface to be configured for emitting or receiving light in the visible range. It has proved particularly advantageous to use wavelengths of between 600-800 nm in the visible spectrum.
  • the interface is advantageous for emitting or receiving infrared signals. It is particularly advantageous for the interface to be configured for emitting or receiving infrared signals in the near infrared range (780 nm-3000 nm).
  • the interface comprises at least one LED.
  • the interface comprises at least two LEDs. It is also possible according to a further preferred development of the invention to provide at least two LEDs, which emit light at different wavelengths. This makes it possible, for example, to define different signal bands on which information may respectively be transmitted or received.
  • At least one LED to be an RGB LED, the wavelength of which is adjustable.
  • different signal bands which emit signals on different wavelengths may be defined with one LED.
  • an optical signal prefferably configured as a signal pulse with a pulse duration of between 1 ms and 10 seconds, preferably between 5 ms and 100 ms.
  • the signal emitted and/or received by the interface in particular bears information, in particular being a control signal or a signal which represents an operating state of the dispenser and/or the washing machine.
  • the dispenser may comprise at least one optical receive unit.
  • This for example makes it possible for the dispenser to receive signals from an optical transmit unit arranged in the washing machine.
  • This may be achieved by any suitable optical receive unit, such as for example photocells, photomultipliers, semiconductor detectors, photodiodes, photoresistors, solar cells, phototransistors, CCD and/or CMOS image sensors. It is particularly preferred for the optical receive unit to be suitable for receiving light in the wavelength range from 600-800 nm.
  • the optical receive unit on the dispenser may also be constructed such that the signals from the transmit unit incouplable into a cartridge coupled to the dispenser are outcouplable from the cartridge and are detectable by the optical receive unit of the dispenser.
  • the signals emitted by the transmit unit into the surrounding environment of the dispenser may preferably represent information with regard to operating states or control commands.
  • the dispenser is arranged outside the washing machine.
  • the dispenser may be constructed such that it is couplable to a cartridge and is intended for positioning outside the treatment compartment of the washing machine and has no connection to the water-conveying line of the washing machine.
  • Such a dispenser furthermore comprises at least one sensor which at least detects the presence of water in the washing machine, at least one pump which delivers preparation from the cartridge or dispenser, at least one control unit which cooperates with the sensor and the pump such that, if a defined sensor signal is present, at least one preparation is delivered from the cartridge or dispenser by means of the pump, together with at least one fluid line which connects the cartridge or the dispenser with the treatment compartment of the washing machine, such that a preparation may be supplied from the dispenser arranged outside the treatment compartment of the washing machine via an orifice of the washing machine which is connected with the treatment compartment into the internal treatment compartment of the washing machine.
  • the dispenser is arranged within the rotating treatment compartment of the washing machine.
  • an actuator is a device which converts an input variable into an output variable of a different kind and with which an object is moved or movement thereof is brought about.
  • the actuator is preferably coupled with at least one closing element such that release of preparation from at least one cartridge chamber may be directly or indirectly effected.
  • the actuator may be driven by means of drives selected from the group of gravity drives, ion drives, electric drives, motor drives, hydraulic drives, pneumatic drives, gear drives, worm gear drives, ball-screw drives, linear drives, roller-screw drives, toothed worm drives, piezoelectric drives, chain drives, and/or reaction drives.
  • drives selected from the group of gravity drives, ion drives, electric drives, motor drives, hydraulic drives, pneumatic drives, gear drives, worm gear drives, ball-screw drives, linear drives, roller-screw drives, toothed worm drives, piezoelectric drives, chain drives, and/or reaction drives.
  • the actuator takes the form of a pump or compressor.
  • the actuator is a bistable solenoid which, together with a closing element taking the form of a plunger core engaging in the bistable solenoid, forms a pulse-controlled bistable valve.
  • Bistable solenoids are electromechanical magnets with a linear direction of motion, the plunger core coming to an unenergized rest in each end position.
  • Bistable solenoids or valves are known from the prior art.
  • a bistable valve In order to change between valve positions (open/closed), a bistable valve requires a pulse and then remains in this position until a counter-pulse is transmitted to the valve.
  • Such a valve is accordingly also known as a pulse-controlled valve.
  • pulse-controlled valves One substantial advantage of such pulse-controlled valves is that they do not consume any energy in order to remain at the valve end positions, the closure position and the release position, but instead merely require an energy pulse to change valve position and the valve end positions should thus be considered stable.
  • a bistable valve remains in whatever switching position for which it most recently received a control signal.
  • a closing element for the purposes of the present application is a component on which the actuator acts and which, as a consequence of said action, brings about opening or closing of an outlet orifice.
  • the closing element may, for example, comprise valves which may be adjusted by the actuator into a product release position or a closure position.
  • the closing element and the actuator assume the form of a solenoid valve, in which the dispenser is embodied by the valve and the actuator by the electromagnetic or piezoelectric drive of the solenoid valve.
  • the use of solenoid valves permits very precise control of the quantity and timing of dispensing.
  • a sensor is a measured variable pickup or detecting element, which may detect specific physical or chemical properties and/or the material nature of its surrounding environment qualitatively or quantitatively as a measured variable.
  • the dispensing system preferably comprises at least one sensor, which is suitable for detecting a temperature.
  • the temperature sensor is designed in particular to detect a water temperature.
  • the dispensing system comprises a sensor for detecting conductivity, whereby in particular the presence, inflow and/or spraying of water into a washing machine is/are detected.
  • a sensor may be selected from the group of timers, temperature sensors, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, motion sensors, strain sensors, rotational speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, instantaneous acoustic pressure sensors, “lab-on-a-chip” sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, moisture sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors, position sensors, gyro sensors, optical, electrical and/or mechanical displacement sensors and/or MEMS sensors.
  • sensors may preferably be selected from the group of temperature sensors, motion sensors, rotational speed sensors, vibration sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, position sensors, gyro sensors, optical, electrical and/or mechanical displacement sensors.
  • At least two sensor is provided in or on the dispensing system for measuring different parameters, one sensor very particularly preferably being a conductivity sensor and a further sensor very particularly preferably being a temperature sensor.
  • the sensors are in particular adjusted for detecting the start, progress and finish of a treatment program of a washing machine, such as for example a washing or rinsing program.
  • a treatment program of a washing machine such as for example a washing or rinsing program.
  • the sensor combinations listed in the following table may be used for this purpose.
  • Sensor 1 Sensor 2 Sensor 3 Sensor 4 Conductivity sensor Temperature sensor Conductivity sensor Temperature sensor Conductivity sensor Temperature sensor Acoustic sensor Conductivity sensor Temperature sensor Acoustic sensor Turbidity sensor Acoustic sensor Temperature sensor Acoustic sensor Conductivity sensor Vibration sensor Conductivity sensor Vibration sensor Temperature sensor Conductivity sensor Motion sensor Vibration sensor Motion sensor Vibration sensor Motion sensor Vibration sensor Motion sensor Vibration sensor Motion sensor Vibration sensor Motion sensor
  • the conductivity sensor it is possible, for example, to detect whether the conductivity sensor has been wetted with water, such that it may for example thereby be established whether water is in or is flowing into the washing machine.
  • Treatment programs in washing machines such as for example washing and rinsing programs, generally have a characteristic temperature profile, determined among other things by the heating of the washing or rinsing water, which may be detected by a temperature sensor.
  • a vibration sensor it is possible, for example, to detect natural vibration frequencies or resonance of a washing machine with a rotating treatment compartment when, for example, the washing drum is accelerated to rotational speeds which are appropriate for spinning the washing. It is thus conceivable to detect the start or finish of a spin cycle by means of a vibration sensor.
  • a motion sensor in particular if the dispenser is intended to be positioned in the rotating treatment compartment, such as the washing drum of a washing machine, it is possible to detect the movement of the dispenser in the treatment compartment. Rotation of the washing drum during the washing program or spinning may, for example, be detected.
  • a turbidity sensor may also be provided to determine the degree of soiling of the items to be washed in the washing machine. This for example also allows selection of a dispensing system dispensing program which is appropriate for the identified soiling situation.
  • the data line between sensor and control unit may take the form of an electrically conductive cable or may assume a cable-less form. It is in principle also conceivable for at least one sensor to be positioned or positionable outside the dispensing system in the interior of the washing machine, such as for example in the treatment compartment, in or on the washing drum and/or in or on the dispensing drawer, and for a data line, in particular a cable-less data line, to be provided for transferring measured data from the sensor to the dispenser.
  • a cable-less data line is achieved in particular by the transfer of electromagnetic waves or light. It is preferable for a cable-less data line to be configured to standards such as for example Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS etc.
  • At least one sensor is arranged at the distal end, protruding into the treatment compartment, of a fluid line which connects the dispenser with the treatment compartment, such as for example the dispensing drawer, the washing drum etc.
  • the sensor is in particular configured such that it is suitable for detecting operation of the washing machine and/or inflow of water into the washing machine.
  • the sensor on the distal end protruding into the treatment compartment of the fluid line is in particular a conductivity sensor and/or a temperature sensor and/or an acoustic or vibration sensor.
  • a control unit for the purposes of the present application is a device which is suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and/or information.
  • the control unit acts on at least one actuator with the assistance of information, in particular sensor unit measurement signals, which it processes for the purposes of the control objective.
  • at least one sensor is connected to the control unit, it being particularly preferred for the sensor to supply a signal to the control unit which represents the presence of water in the washing machine and/or operation of the washing machine.
  • the control unit may in particular comprise a programmable microprocessor.
  • a plurality of dispensing programs are stored in the microprocessor which in a particularly preferred configuration may be selected and executed depending on the container coupled to the dispenser.
  • control unit is not connected to any controller which may be present in the washing machine. Accordingly, no information, in particular electrical, optical or electromagnetic signals, is exchanged directly between the control unit and the controller of the washing machine.
  • control unit is coupled to the existing controller of the washing machine.
  • This coupling is preferably cable-less. It is possible, for example, to position a transmitter on or in a washing machine, preferably on or at the dispensing chamber set into the door of the washing machine, which transmits a signal wirelessly to the dispensing unit if the controller of the washing machine brings about dispensing for example of a cleaning agent from the dispensing chamber or of rinse aid.
  • Release of preparations from the dispenser may proceed, controlled by the control unit, in sequence or simultaneously.
  • the senor prefferably to provide a signal which represents the presence of water and/or operation of the washing machine, said signal triggering dispensing of at least one first preparation into the treatment compartment of the washing machine.
  • the sensor signal may in particular be provided by means of a conductivity sensor, temperature sensor, acoustic sensor, vibration sensor, motion sensor and/or turbidity sensor and by any desired combination of the above-stated sensors.
  • One particularly preferred method for controlling a dispenser for use in the dispensing system comprises a dispenser with at least one temperature sensor and/or a conductivity sensor, it being possible to arrange the temperature sensor and/or conductivity sensor in and/or on and/or outside the dispenser, and a release means for releasing a preparation from the dispenser into the interior of the washing machine, said method comprising the measurement of a first resistance R, in which when the condition R ⁇ R Ref prevails, R Ref being a predefined reference resistance which represents the presence of water on the conductivity sensor, at least one volume V 1 of a first preparation is released from the dispenser into the interior of the washing machine.
  • T 1 a first temperature in the interior of the washing machine by means of the temperature sensor and measurement of the resistance R on the conductivity sensor, in which when the condition T 1 >T Ref1 prevails, T Ref1 being a predefined, first reference temperature which amounts to at least 21° C., preferably at least 30° C., and in which when the condition R ⁇ R Ref prevails, R Ref being a predefined reference resistance which represents the presence of water on the conductivity sensor, [effect] release of at least one volume V 1 of a first preparation from the dispenser into the interior of the washing machine.
  • temperature and conductivity information inter alia prevents the dispenser from initiating an unwanted dispensing operation in a hot surrounding environment, for example during transport, which could happen were only temperature information used to the control the dispenser.
  • Temperature T 1 and resistance R on the conductivity sensor may be measured in succession or simultaneously. It is preferred for firstly temperature T 1 and subsequently resistance R to be measured. It is, however, also conceivable to measure resistance R first and then temperature T 1 .
  • a temperature measurement of a second temperature T 2 is carried out after a predefined time interval t dif , in particular after 10-600 s, preferably after 30-240 s, particularly preferably 45-100 s by means of the temperature sensor and, if the condition T 2 >T 1 + ⁇ T applies, ⁇ T being within the limits of the function range (0.5[° C./min]*t dif [min]) to (5[° C./min]*t dif [min]), at least one volume V 1 of a first preparation is released from the dispenser into the interior of the washing machine. A temperature rise occurring during the heating phase of the washing machine, in particular in the prerinse/prewash or main rinse/main wash section of a rinsing or washing program, is detected in this manner.
  • the first temperature T 1 is remeasured after a predefined time t dif , in particular after 2-10 min, preferably after 3-7 min, particularly preferably 4-6 min.
  • the temperature is preferably not measured continuously, but at predefined intervals.
  • T Ref2 being a second reference temperature which is at least 35° C., preferably at least 40° C.
  • R Ref being a predefined reference resistance which represents the presence of water on the conductivity sensor, for at least one volume V 1 of a first preparation to be released immediately from the dispenser into the interior of the washing machine.
  • the first temperature T 1 is remeasured after a predefined time t dif , in particular after 10-600 s, preferably after 30-240 s, particularly preferably 45-100 s.
  • This time interval is preferably less than or equal to the time interval preceding the measurement of the first temperature T 1 when the condition T 1 ⁇ T Ref1 prevails.
  • the dispenser is switched into an intensified monitoring mode by shortened monitoring intervals in the measurement of the first temperature T 1 , so enabling timely detection of water in the washing machine due to the shortened monitoring intervals.
  • a further development of the method according to the invention thus provides that, after dispensing the first volume V 1 , a second volume V 2 of a second preparation is dispensed from the dispenser into the interior of the washing machine, the first preparation differing from the second preparation and there being between the dispensing of V 1 and V 2 a predefined time interval t dif , preferably of between 30 and 300 s, particularly preferably between 60 and 240 s, very particularly preferably between 60 and 150 s.
  • the first preparation is a first enzyme-containing preparation and the second preparation a second enzyme-containing preparation, the first and the second enzyme-containing preparations being different from one another.
  • the third preparation for example to be a scent-containing preparation.
  • the third volume V 3 is dispensed after the start of a rinse section in a washing program.
  • the start of a rinse section is in particular characterized in that, after completion of the main washing cycle and before the start of the rinse section, there is a water change in the washing machine, during which heated water is conventionally pumped out and cold rinsing water is supplied to the washing process. This may be detected by sensor means, for example by a conductivity measurement in conjunction with a temperature measurement. Other possible, instrumentally detectable parameters which represent such a water change may, of course, also be used.
  • the third volume V 3 is dispensed with a time delay after 0.5-30 min, preferably 1-20 min, particularly preferably 5-15 min after the start of a rinse section in a washing program.
  • the quantities released of the first volume V 1 , the second volume V 2 and the third volume V 3 are preferably in a ratio of 1:4:1, it being particularly preferred for the first volume V 1 to be an enzyme-containing preparation, the second volume V 2 an alkaline washing agent preparation and the third volume a scent-containing preparation.
  • an energy source is taken to mean a component of the dispensing device which is capable of providing energy which is suitable for operation of the dispensing system or of the dispenser.
  • the energy source is preferably configured such that the dispensing system is autonomous.
  • the energy source preferably provides electrical energy.
  • the energy source may for example comprise a battery, a storage battery, a mains energy supply, solar cells or the like.
  • a battery may for example be selected from the group of alkali-manganese batteries, zinc-carbon batteries, nickel-oxyhydroxide batteries, lithium batteries, lithium-iron sulfide batteries, zinc-air batteries, zinc chloride batteries, mercury oxide-zinc batteries and/or silver oxide-zinc batteries.
  • suitable storage batteries are lead storage batteries (lead dioxide/lead), nickel-cadmium storage batteries, nickel-metal hydride storage batteries, lithium-ion storage batteries, lithium-polymer storage batteries, alkali-manganese storage batteries, silver-zinc storage batteries, nickel-hydrogen storage batteries, zinc-bromine storage batteries, sodium-nickel chloride storage batteries and/or nickel-iron storage batteries.
  • the storage battery may in particular be configured in such a way that it is rechargeable by induction.
  • the energy source is dimensioned in such a manner that the dispenser may run through approximately 1000 dispensing cycles before the energy source is exhausted. It is particularly preferable for the energy source to run through between 1 and 1000 dispensing cycles, very particularly preferably between 10 and 500, more preferably between 100 and 300, before the energy source is exhausted.
  • the dispensing system comprises at least one vibratory atomizer, by means of which it is possible to convert a preparation into the gas phase or keep it in the gas phase. It is thus conceivable, for example, to use the vibratory atomizer to vaporize, nebulize and/or atomize preparations, whereby the preparation is converted into the gas phase or forms an aerosol in the gas phase, the gas phase conventionally being air.
  • This embodiment is particularly advantageous when using a washing machine in which corresponding release of preparation into the gas phase takes place in a closable washing compartment.
  • the preparation introduced into the gas phase may be distributed uniformly about the washing compartment and be deposited on the items to be washed located in the washing machine.
  • the preparation released by the vibratory atomizer may be selected from the group of surfactant-containing preparations, enzyme-containing preparations, odor-neutralizing preparations, biocidal preparations and antibacterial preparations.
  • a suitable preparation may suppress the formation of malodors due to biological decomposition processes.
  • an appropriate cleaning preparation may “soften” any soiling which may be stuck to the items being washed, such that it may be easily and completely detached during the washing machine washing program, in particular in the case of low temperature programs.
  • the preparation may for example be a preparation with antibacterial action or a preparation for modifying textile surfaces.
  • the vibratory atomizer prefferably takes the form of a piezoelectric element.
  • the dispenser may be configured such that a control unit is provided which is connected to the energy source, a sensor unit, a release element and an acoustic transducer, wherein
  • the electrical signals which bring about spraying of a preparation prefferably have a frequency of 70-400 kHz, preferably of 80-90 kHz.
  • the dispenser may be configured such that a control unit is provided which is connected to the energy source, a sensor unit, a release element and an acoustic transducer, wherein
  • the electrical signals which bring about spraying of a preparation to have a frequency of 70-400 kHz, preferably of 80-90 kHz, and for the electrical signals which bring about the generation of an audible acoustic signal to have a frequency of 20 Hz-20 kHz, preferably of 5-15 kHz and particularly preferably of 7-10 kHz.
  • the piezoelectric element is particularly preferably configured such that it detects the natural frequency or a multiple of the natural frequency of the washing machine, in particular during spinning operations.
  • the electrical signals which bring about spraying of a preparation and the generation of an audible acoustic signal may be supplied to the piezoelectric element by the control unit simultaneously and/or with a time delay.
  • the preparation released by the piezoelectric atomizer may in particular be selected from the group of surfactant-containing preparations, enzyme-containing preparations, odor-neutralizing preparations, biocidal preparations and antibacterial preparations.
  • the preparations stored in the cartridge chambers are flowable, preferably having a viscosity of between 10 and 10000 mPa ⁇ s (Brookfield RVD-VII viscometer at 20 rpm and 20° C., spindle 3 ). Solid substances in dissolved form are moreover also feasible, in particular dispersions.
  • the preparations in the cartridge chambers differ from one another. Possible components of the preparations are explained in greater detail below.
  • At least one of the preparations stored in the cartridge chambers contains at least one enzyme, such as in particular for example from the group of proteases, amylases, catalases, peroxidases, cellulases, mannanase, polyesterases, xylanases, carragenases, perhydrolases, pectinases, pectate lyases, oxidases for example glycose oxidases and/or lipases, and/or enzyme stabilizers, preferably in quantities of 0 to 50 wt. %, preferably 5-30 wt. %, particularly preferably 10-25 wt. % in each case relative to the entire agent.
  • enzyme stabilizers preferably in quantities of 0 to 50 wt. %, preferably 5-30 wt. %, particularly preferably 10-25 wt. % in each case relative to the entire agent.
  • Enzymes which may in particular be considered are those from the classes of hydrolases such as proteases, esterases, lipases or lipolytically active enzymes, amylases, cellulases or other glycosylhydrolases and mixtures of the stated enzymes.
  • hydrolases such as proteases, esterases, lipases or lipolytically active enzymes, amylases, cellulases or other glycosylhydrolases and mixtures of the stated enzymes.
  • all these hydrolases contribute to the removal of stains such as those containing protein, fat or starch and of graying.
  • cellulases and other glycosylhydrolases may furthermore contribute to color retention and to increasing textile softness.
  • Oxyreductases may also be used for bleaching or for inhibiting color transfer.
  • Suitable amylases include in particular ⁇ -amylases, iso-amylases, pullulanases and pectinases.
  • Cellobiohydrolases, endoglucanases and ⁇ -glucosidases, which are also known as cellobiases, or mixtures of these are preferably used as cellulases. Since different types of cellulase may differ in terms of their CMCase and avicelase activities, desired activities may be established by targeted mixing of the cellulases.
  • At least one of the preparations stored in the cartridge chambers contains at least one bleach.
  • Oxidizing agents or bleaches which may be used are any conceivable oxidizing agents, for example perborates, percarbonates, peroxycarboxylic acids (in particular 6-phthalimidoperoxyhexenoic acid), hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite.
  • perborates, percarbonates, peroxycarboxylic acids (in particular 6-phthalimidoperoxyhexenoic acid), hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite is particularly sensible, since it may advantageously also be used in liquid form.
  • At least one of the preparations stored in the cartridge chambers contains at least one surfactant.
  • At least one preparation contains at least 0.1 wt. % surfactants.
  • the surfactant content of the total agent preferably amounts to 0.1-60 wt. %.
  • anionic surfactants such as for example (linear) alkylbenzene sulfonates, fatty alcohol sulfates or alkane sulfonates etc., preferably in quantities of for example. 0.1 to 30 wt. %
  • nonionic surfactants such as for example alkyl polyglycol ethers, alkyl polyglucosides or amine oxides etc., preferably in quantities of for example 0.1 to 30 wt. %, in each case relative to the total agent.
  • the agent according to the invention may also contain cationic surfactants, for example in quantities of 0.01 wt. % or 0.05 wt. % to 30 wt. %. It is a preferred embodiment, however, for the agent according to the invention to be free of cationic surfactant, which here means that the agent contains less than 10 wt. %, preferably less than 5 wt. %, advantageously less than 3 wt. %, advantageously less than 1 wt. %, more advantageously less than 0.5 wt. %, in particular 0 wt. % of cationic surfactant.
  • the preparations may contain further ingredients which further improve the applicational and/or esthetic properties of the preparation.
  • the preparations may additionally contain one or more substances from the group of builders, bleach catalysts, bleach activators, enzyme stabilizers, electrolytes, solvents, pH adjusting agents, perfume carriers, fluorescent agents, dyes, hydrotropes, foam inhibitors, silicone oils, antiredeposition agents, graying inhibitors, shrinkage prevention agents, anticrease agents, dye transfer inhibitors, antimicrobial active substances, germicides, fungicides, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors, antistatic agents, bitter agents, ironing aids, waterproofing and impregnation agents, antiswelling and antislip agents, textile-softening components and UV absorbers.
  • Example 1 shows, in the table below, a first assignment of products to three cartridge chambers.
  • the first chamber is here configured as the first enzyme chamber, the second chamber as the second enzyme chamber, the enzyme preparations of the first and second chambers being different from one another and the third chamber being configured as a scent chamber.
  • the first chamber it is very particularly preferable for the first chamber to store at least one enzyme, selected from the group of amylases, mannanases, cellulases, lipases and/or pectate lyases and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent at a pH value of 6-8 and for the second chamber to store at least one protease and at least one surfactant and/or complexing agent at a pH value of 6-8.
  • Chamber 1 exhibits a substantially neutral pH value of between 6 and 8
  • chamber 2 preferably has a substantially neutral pH value of 6-8 while chamber 3 has an acidic pH value of between 1 and 3.
  • Chamber 1 is dispensed in a time interval immediately at the start until 15 min after the start of a washing program.
  • the second chamber is dispensed between 10 and 30 min after the start of a washing program, it being preferred for release from the first chamber and the second chamber not to proceed simultaneously.
  • the third chamber is dispensed after the start of a rinse section.
  • the third chamber is preferably dispensed 0.5-30 min, preferably 1-15 min, particularly preferably 5-15 min after the start of a rinse section.
  • Example 2 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains a component for improving soft handle in the form of at least one surfactant, preferably a cationic surfactant. Suitable polymers may alternatively or additionally be used for improving soft handle.
  • Example 3 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an antimicrobial compound, for example a cationic disinfectant.
  • an antimicrobial compound for example a cationic disinfectant.
  • Example 4 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an optical brightener.
  • Example 5 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an antimicrobial compound, for example a disinfectant, and an optical brightener.
  • an antimicrobial compound for example a disinfectant, and an optical brightener.
  • Example 6 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 1 and chamber 2 additionally contain a foam inhibitor.
  • Example 7 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 1 and chamber 2 additionally contain a dye transfer inhibitor.
  • Example 8 differs from Example 1 in that chamber 3 additionally contains an ironing aid.
  • Example 9 differs from Example 1 in that the preparation stored in chamber 1 exhibits a substantially acidic pH value of 3-7, preferably of 3-6. Dispensing a first, acidic preparation may prevent the formation and deposition of sparingly soluble deodorant components (aluminum salts) by elevated pH values, such that such soiling may readily be removed by the surfactants and enzymes which are present in the acidic environment.
  • a substantially acidic pH value 3-7, preferably of 3-6.
  • Example 10 differs from Example 1 in that the preparation in the first chamber has a substantially neutral pH value, while the preparation in the second chamber is alkaline, at a pH value of 8-12.
  • Example 11 differs from Example 1 in that the preparation in the second chamber is alkaline, at a pH value of 8-12, and chamber 2 contains a bleach.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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  • Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)
  • Detergent Compositions (AREA)
  • Control Of Washing Machine And Dryer (AREA)
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DE102010027994A DE102010027994A1 (de) 2010-04-20 2010-04-20 Dosiersystem zur Freisetzung von wenigstens drei unterschiedlichen Zubereitungen während eines Waschprogramms einer Waschmaschine
PCT/EP2010/066666 WO2011131257A1 (de) 2010-04-20 2010-11-03 Dosiersystem zur freisetzung von wenigstens drei unterschiedlichen zubereitungen während eines waschprogramms einer waschmaschine

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EP2521810A1 (de) 2012-11-14
HUE033430T2 (en) 2017-11-28
ES2637958T3 (es) 2017-10-18
KR20130062273A (ko) 2013-06-12

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