US20160297577A1

US20160297577A1 - Hygiene system for dispensing hygiene product

Info

Publication number: US20160297577A1
Application number: US15/093,980
Authority: US
Inventors: Keith Allen Pelfrey
Original assignee: Go-Jo Industries Inc
Current assignee: Go-Jo Industries Inc
Priority date: 2015-04-09
Filing date: 2016-04-08
Publication date: 2016-10-13

Abstract

A hygiene system for dispensing a hygiene product includes a container within which the hygiene product is contained and from which the hygiene product is dispensed. The container includes a nozzle that defines an opening through which the hygiene product is dispensed. A valve is movable between an opened valve position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the valve, and a closed valve position, in which the valve restricts a flow of the hygiene product through the opening and past the valve. A dispense structure is attached to the container and movable with respect to the nozzle. The dispense structure is movable between an opened dispense position and a closed dispense position.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a non-provisional filing of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 62/145,397, titled “HYGIENE SYSTEM FOR DISPENSING HYGIENE PRODUCT” and filed on Apr. 9, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The instant application is directed towards a hygiene system. For example, the instant application is directed towards a hygiene system for selectively dispensing a hygiene product.

BACKGROUND

Hygiene systems can dispense a hygiene product to a user. Hygiene systems can be used, for example, in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, factories, restaurants, etc. In some examples, hygiene systems can be handheld, such that a user can carry the hygiene system on his/her person, and selectively dispense the hygiene product when needed.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
In an example, a hygiene system for dispensing a hygiene product comprises a container within which the hygiene product is contained and from which the hygiene product is dispensed. The container comprises a nozzle that defines an opening through which the hygiene product is dispensed. The hygiene system comprises a valve attached to the nozzle and positioned in proximity to the opening. The valve is movable between an opened valve position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the valve, and a closed valve position, in which the valve restricts a flow of the hygiene product through the opening and past the valve. The hygiene system comprises a dispense structure attached to the container and movable with respect to the nozzle. The dispense structure is movable between an opened dispense position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the dispense structure when the valve is in the opened valve position, and a closed dispense position, in which the dispense structure is configured to block the valve and restrict the flow of the hygiene product past the dispense structure.
In another example, a hygiene system for dispensing a hygiene product comprises a container within which the hygiene product is contained and from which the hygiene product is dispensed. The container comprises a nozzle that defines an opening through which the hygiene product is dispensed. A valve is attached to the nozzle and is positioned in proximity to the opening. The valve is movable between an opened valve position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the valve, and a closed valve position, in which the valve restricts a flow of the hygiene product through the opening and past the valve. A dispense assembly comprises a housing attached to the container. The dispense assembly comprises a dispense structure supported within the housing and movable with respect to the nozzle. The dispense structure is movable between an opened dispense position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the dispense structure when the valve is in the opened valve position, and a closed dispense position, in which the dispense structure is configured to block the valve and restrict the flow of the hygiene product past the dispense structure. The dispense assembly comprises a biasing device supported within the housing. The biasing device is configured to apply a biasing force to the dispense structure to bias the dispense structure towards the closed dispense position.
In another example, a hygiene system for dispensing a hygiene product comprises a container within which the hygiene product is contained and from which the hygiene product is dispensed. The container comprises a nozzle that defines an opening through which the hygiene product is dispensed. The hygiene system comprises a valve attached to the nozzle and positioned in proximity to the opening. The valve is movable between an opened valve position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the valve, and a closed valve position, in which the valve restricts a flow of the hygiene product through the opening and past the valve. A dispense assembly comprises a housing attached to the container and a dispense structure supported within the housing and movable with respect to the nozzle. The dispense structure is movable between an opened dispense position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the dispense structure when the valve is in the opened valve position, and a closed dispense position, in which the dispense structure is configured to block the valve and restrict the flow of the hygiene product past the dispense structure. A biasing device is supported within the housing. The biasing device is configured to apply a biasing force to the dispense structure to bias the dispense structure towards the closed dispense position. A seal is attached to the nozzle and projects from the nozzle towards the dispense structure. The seal contacting a surface of the dispense structure as the dispense structure moves between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position.
The following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects can be employed. Other aspects, advantages, and/or novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is an illustration of an example hygiene system;
FIG. 2 is an illustration of an example hygiene system;
FIG. 3 is an illustration of an example hygiene system;
FIG. 4 is an illustration of an example hygiene system;
FIG. 5 is an illustration of an example hygiene system;
FIG. 6 is an illustration of an example dispense structure;
FIG. 7 is an illustration of an example dispense structure;
FIG. 8 is an illustration of an example dispense structure and compliance system;
FIG. 9 is an illustration of an example dispense structure and compliance system;
FIG. 10 is an illustration of an example compliance system; and
FIG. 11 is an illustration of an example dispense structure and compliance system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the claimed subject matter. It is evident, however, that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are illustrated in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter. Relative size, orientation, etc. of parts, components, etc. may differ from that which is illustrated while not falling outside of the scope of the claimed subject matter.
Referring to FIG. 1, an example hygiene system 100 is illustrated. The hygiene system 100 can be used for storing and/or dispensing a hygiene product. The hygiene system 100 can be held by a user, such that the user can dispense the hygiene product. As such, in this example, the hygiene system 100 has a size that is small enough to be held, gripped, manipulated, etc. by the user.
The hygiene system 100 comprises a container 102. The container 102 comprises a container, enclosure, vessel, pouch, etc. into which a hygiene product 104 (e.g., illustrated schematically with a dashed line in FIG. 1) can be received and from which the hygiene product 104 can be dispensed. The container 102 can be held, gripped, manipulated, etc. by the user. In this example, the container 102 is substantially hollow, such that the hygiene product 104 can be received within the container 102. In some examples, the container 102 comprises a substantially rigid and/or durable structure or material, such as a plastic material, or the like. In a possible example, the container 102 is substantially rigid while maintaining at least some degree of flexibility, such that the user can squeeze the container 102 to cause at least some of the hygiene product 104 to be dispensed. In some examples, the hygiene product 104 comprises soaps, cleaners, disinfectants, sanitizers, antiseptics, moisturizers, alcohol-infused liquids, or the like. In other examples, the hygiene product 104 comprises liquid or semi-liquid materials.
Turning to FIG. 2, a cross-sectional view of the hygiene system 100 is illustrated. In this example, the container 102 of the hygiene system 100 comprises one or more walls, such as a first wall 200 and second walls 202. Together, the first wall 200 and the second walls 202 define a substantially hollow interior 204 of the container 102. In this example, the first wall 200 has one or more bends, curves, undulations, etc. and forms a perimeter of the container 102. A pair of second walls 202 are spaced apart from each other (e.g., to define the hollow interior 204 therebetween) and attached to, formed with, etc. the first wall 200. In some examples, the second walls 202 can have at least some degree of flexibility, such that the second walls 202 can be squeezed to cause the hygiene product 104 to be dispensed.
The container 102 comprises a support wall 206. In the illustrated example, the support wall 206 is substantially planar, though, in other examples, the support wall 206 can have at least some degree of bending, curvature, etc. In this example, the support wall 206 extends substantially perpendicularly to the second walls 202, and is attached to, formed with, etc. the first wall 200 and the second walls 202 around a perimeter of the support wall 206.
The container 102 comprises a nozzle 208. The nozzle 208 can extend substantially perpendicularly from the support wall 206. In an example, the nozzle 208 defines an opening 210 through which the hygiene product 104 can be dispensed. In an example, the opening 210 of the nozzle 208 is in fluid communication with the interior 204 of the container 102. As such, the hygiene product 104 can be dispensed by flowing from the interior 204 of the container 102 and through the opening 210 of the nozzle 208. In the illustrated example, the nozzle 208 extends a distance from the support wall 206. In some examples, this distance can be between about 0 millimeters to about 51 millimeters (˜2 inches).
The nozzle 208 comprises a first attachment feature 212. In an example, the first attachment feature 212 may be provided on an exterior surface 213 of the nozzle 208. The first attachment feature 212 can facilitate and/or allow for another structure to be attached to the nozzle 208. In this example, the first attachment feature 212 comprises a protrusion that extends at least partially circumferentially around the exterior surface 213 of the nozzle 208. The first attachment feature 212 is not limited to comprising a protrusion. Rather, in other examples, first attachment feature 212 may comprise one or more of a groove, indentation, channel, a plurality of protrusions, magnets, mechanical fasteners, etc. In this example, the first attachment feature 212 is spaced a distance apart from the support wall 206, though, in other examples, the first attachment feature 212 can be located closer to or farther from the support wall 206 than as illustrated.
The hygiene system 100 comprises a valve 214. In an example, the valve 214 can be attached to the nozzle 208 and positioned in proximity to the opening 210. By being positioned in proximity to the opening 210, in some examples, the valve 214 may be positioned within the opening 210. In other examples, by being positioned in proximity to the opening 210, the valve 214 may be attached to the nozzle 208 (e.g., to an upper portion of the nozzle 208), such that the valve 214 is located adjacent to but outside of (e.g., above) the opening 210. In these examples, the valve 214 can selectively allow for the flow of the hygiene product 104 through the opening 210 and past the valve 214.
In an example, the valve 214 can be selectively moved to an opened valve position, in which the hygiene product 104 can flow through the opening 210 and past the valve 214. In an example, the valve 214 can be selectively moved to the closed valve position, in which the valve 214 restricts the flow of the hygiene product 104 through the opening 210 and past the valve 214. The valve 214 can be moved between the opened valve position and the closed valve position in any number of ways. In a possible example, in response to pressure on the container 102 (e.g., such as by a user squeezing the walls 202), the valve 214 can move from the closed valve position to the opened valve position, thus allowing for the hygiene product 104 to be expelled. When the pressure is no longer applied to the container 102, the valve 214 can move from the opened valve position to the closed valve position, whereupon the valve 214 remains until pressure is re-applied. As such, at rest and/or in the absence of an external pressure and/or force applied to the container 102, the valve 214 can be in the closed valve position, such that the hygiene product 104 is restricted from being dispensed.
Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the container 102 comprises at least one alignment feature. In this example, the at least one alignment feature comprises a first alignment feature 216 and a second alignment feature 218. The first alignment feature 216 and the second alignment feature 218 can extend along the support wall 206. In an example, the first alignment feature 216 and the second alignment feature 218 comprise outcroppings, protrusions, extensions, or the like. The first alignment feature 216 and the second alignment feature 218 can extend substantially parallel to each other on opposing sides of the nozzle 208. In this example, the first alignment feature 216 can be positioned on one side of the nozzle 208, between the nozzle 208 and an edge of the support wall 206. In this example, the second alignment feature 218 can be positioned on an opposing side of the nozzle 208, between the nozzle 208 and an opposing edge of the support wall 206. As will be described in detail below, the first alignment feature 216 and the second alignment feature 218 can assist in supporting a housing 220 with respect to the container 102.
Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, the hygiene system 100 comprises the housing 220 that can be attached to the container 102. In an example, the housing 220 comprises a first housing portion 222 and a second housing portion 224. The first housing portion 222 can be attached to the nozzle 208 of the container 102. In this example, the first housing portion 222 extends between a first end 226 and a second end 228. The first housing portion 222 has a length (e.g., as measured between the first end 226 and the second end 228) that is less than a length of the support wall 206.
The first housing portion 222 comprises a first support wall 230 that extends between the first end 226 and the second end 228. In an example, the first support wall 230 is substantially non-planar and has a rounded, curved, arcuate, etc. shape. The first support wall 230 can be in proximity to and/or in relatively close contact to the support wall 206 of the container 102 at the first end 226 and the second end 228 of the first support wall 230. In this example, a central portion of the first support wall 230 can be spaced a distance apart from the support wall 206. For example, a maximum distance separating the first support wall 230 can substantially match a length of the nozzle 208.
The first housing portion 222 comprises an attachment wall 232. In an example, the attachment wall 232 can be attached to, coupled to, formed with, etc. the first support wall 230. The attachment wall 232 can extend between a central portion of the first support wall 230 and the support wall 206 of the container 102. In an example, the attachment wall 232 has a length that substantially matches the length of the nozzle 208. The attachment wall 232 is substantially hollow and can define a first housing opening 234. In the illustrated example, a cross-sectional size of the first housing opening 234 (e.g., diameter) can substantially match a cross-sectional size of the nozzle 208. As such, the nozzle 208 can be removably received within the first housing opening 234 of the first housing portion 222.
The attachment wall 232 can comprise a second attachment feature 236. In the illustrated example, the second attachment feature 236 is positioned on an inner surface of the attachment wall 232. The second attachment feature 236 can facilitate and/or allow for attachment of the first housing portion 222 and the nozzle 208. For example, the second attachment feature 236 can comprises a protrusion that extends at least partially circumferentially around the inner surface of the attachment wall 232. The second attachment feature 236 is not limited to comprising a protrusion. Rather, in other examples, the second attachment feature 236 may comprise one or more of a groove, indentation, channel, a plurality of protrusions, magnets, mechanical fasteners, etc.
In this example, the second attachment feature 236 can engage the first attachment feature 212 so as to attach the first housing portion 222 to the nozzle 208. For example, the second attachment feature 236 can be moved between the first attachment feature 212 on one side (e.g., an upper side) and the support wall 206 on an opposing side (e.g., a lower side). As such, a friction fit between the first attachment feature 212 and the second attachment feature 236 can be formed, such that the first housing portion 222 is substantially limited from being inadvertently removed from the nozzle 208. It will be appreciated that the hygiene system 100 is not limited to comprising the illustrated attachment features, and other structures and/or methods for attaching the first housing portion 222 to the nozzle 208 are envisioned.
As illustrated in FIG. 4, the first housing portion 222 can comprise a first retention structure 238 and a second retention structure 240. The first retention structure 238 may be located adjacent the first end 226 of the first housing portion 222. In an example, the first retention structure 238 comprises a wall, retainer, or other outcropping that extends from the first support wall 230 in a direction away from the container 102. In this example, the first retention structure 238 has three sides, though, any number of sides (e.g., one or more) can be provided.
The second retention structure 240 may be located adjacent the second end 228 of the first housing portion 222. In an example, the second retention structure 240 comprises a wall, retainer, or other outcropping that extends from the first support wall 230 in a direction away from the container 102. In this example, the second retention structure 240 has three sides, though, any number of sides (e.g., one or more) can be provided. The second retention structure 240 may be substantially similar to the first retention structure 238.
Referring to FIG. 2, the housing 220 comprises the second housing portion 224. The second housing portion 224 is configured to mate with and/or nest with the first housing portion 222. In an example, the second housing portion 224 extends between a first end 242 and a second end 244. The first end 242 and the second end 244 of the second housing portion 224 can be in proximity to and/or in contact with the support wall 206 of the container. In this example, the first end 242 of the second housing portion 224 can be fastened to (e.g., such as by a snap fit or the like) with the first end 226 of the first housing portion 222. In this example, the second end 244 of the second housing portion 224 can be fastened to (e.g., such as by a snap fit or the like) with the second end 228 of the first housing portion 222.
In an example, the second housing portion 224 has a rounded, curved, arcuate, etc. shape that substantially matches a shape of the first housing portion 222. As illustrated, the second housing portion 224, in particular the first end 242 and the second end 244, is substantially flush with the first wall 200 of the container 102. As such, a transition between the first wall 200 of the container 102 and the second housing portion 224 (e.g., at the first end 242 and the second end 244) is substantially smooth and/or devoid of bumps, ridges, channels, etc.
The second housing portion 224 comprises a second support wall 250. The second support wall 250 has the rounded, curved, arcuate, etc. shape. The second support wall 250 can extend between the first end 242 and the second end 244. In this example, the second support wall 250 can extend substantially parallel to the first support wall 230 of the first housing portion 222 (e.g., such as by extending circumferentially about a common axis). The second support wall 250 can be radially spaced a distance apart from the first support wall 230, such that a gap, space, channel, opening, etc. may be defined between the first support wall 230 and the second support wall 250.
The second support wall 250 comprises a first wall portion 252 and a second wall portion 254. In an example, the first wall portion 252 is located adjacent to and/or in proximity with the first end 242 of the second housing portion 224. In an example, the second wall portion 254 is located adjacent to and/or in proximity with the second end 244 of the second housing portion 224. In this example, the first wall portion 252 is located on a first side 256 of the nozzle 208 while the second wall portion 254 is located on a second side 258 of the nozzle 208.
The housing 220 can define a first housing channel 260 and a second housing channel 262. In this example, the first housing channel 260 is positioned on the first side 256 of the nozzle 208 while the second housing channel 262 is positioned on the second side 258 of the nozzle 208. The first housing channel 260 can be defined between first wall portion 252 on an outer radial side and the first support wall 230 on an inner radial side. The second housing channel 262 can be defined between the second wall portion 254 on an outer radial side and the first support wall 230 on an inner radial side. In the illustrated example, the first housing channel 260 can be separated from the second housing channel 262 by the nozzle 208 and/or the valve 214, which may be positioned between the first housing channel 260 and the second housing channel 262.
The second support wall 250 can define a second housing opening 264. In an example, the second housing opening 264 is defined between the first wall portion 252 and the second wall portion 254. The second housing opening 264 can be located at a central portion of the second support wall 250. In this example, the second housing opening 264 can be aligned with the opening 210 of the nozzle 208 such that the hygiene product 104 is configured to be selectively dispensed from the opening 210 and through the second housing opening 264.
The hygiene system 100 can comprise a dispense structure 270. The dispense structure 270 can be attached to the container 102 and movable with respect to the nozzle 208. In an example, the dispense structure 270 can be supported within the housing 220, with the dispense structure 270 being movable within the housing 220. The dispense structure 270 can extend between a first end 272 and a second end 274. In an example, the dispense structure 270 is substantially non-planar, and can have a curved, rounded, arcuate, etc. shape. In the illustrated example, the dispense structure 270 can extend substantially parallel to the first housing portion 222 and the second housing portion 224.
The dispense structure 270 comprises a first dispense portion 276 and a second dispense portion 278. In this example, the first dispense portion 276 can be disposed in the first housing channel 260. That is, the first dispense portion 276 can be positioned between the first wall portion 252 of the second housing portion 224 and the first housing portion 222. The first dispense portion 276 can have a length that is less than a length of the first housing channel 260, such that the first dispense portion 276 can move (e.g., slide, translate, etc.) within the first housing channel 260.
In this example, the second dispense portion 278 can be disposed in the second housing channel 262. That is, the second dispense portion 278 can be positioned between the second wall portion 254 of the second housing portion 224 and the first housing portion 222. The second dispense portion 278 can have a length that is less than or equal to a length of the second housing channel 262. As such, the second dispense portion 278 can move (e.g., slide, translate, etc.) within the second housing channel 262. In this example, the first dispense portion 276 and the second dispense portion 278 can have different lengths. For example, the first dispense portion 276 can have a shorter length than the second dispense portion 278.
The dispense structure 270 can comprise a central dispense portion 280. The central dispense portion 280 can be positioned between the first dispense portion 276 on one side and the second dispense portion 278 on an opposing side. In an example, the central dispense portion 280 can be attached to, coupled to, formed with, etc. the first dispense portion 276 and the second dispense portion 278. In an example, the central dispense portion 280 may be located in proximity to and/or adjacent to the nozzle 208 and the first housing opening 234 of the first housing portion 222.
In this example, the central dispense portion 280 can be radially offset from the first dispense portion 276 and/or the second dispense portion 278. For example, while the first dispense portion 276 and the second dispense portion 278 can be in contact with the first support wall 230, the central dispense portion 280 can be spaced a distance apart (e.g., in the radial direction) from the first support wall 230. In an example, this radial offset of the central dispense portion 280 can accommodate for the valve 214 and/or the attachment wall 232 to extend upwardly from the first support wall 230 while still allowing for movement of the central dispense portion 280.
The dispense structure 270 can define a dispense opening 282 (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 5) in the central dispense portion 280 through which the hygiene product 104 can be dispensed when the dispense structure 270 is in an opened dispense position and the valve 214 is in an opened valve position. In this example, the dispense opening 282 can be substantially aligned with the valve 214 when the dispense structure 270 is in the opened dispense position. By being substantially aligned, the dispense opening 282 may be located substantially collinear with the valve 214 and the opening 210 in the nozzle 208. As such, the hygiene product 104 can be dispensed by flowing through the opening 210, past the valve 214, and through the dispense opening 282. In an example, the dispense opening 282 may not be aligned with the valve 214 when the dispense structure 270 is in a closed dispense position. That is, the dispense opening 282 can be offset from, out of alignment with, and/or not in fluid communication with the valve 214 when the dispense structure 270 is in the closed dispense position.
A biasing device 284 (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 5) can be supported within the housing 220. The biasing device 284 can apply a biasing force to the dispense structure 270 to bias the dispense structure 270 towards the closed dispense position (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 2). In this example, the biasing device 284 is positioned within the first housing channel 260 between the second housing portion 224 on an outer radial side and the first housing portion 222 on an inner radial side.
The biasing device 284 can extend between a first end 286 and a second end 288. The first end 286 of the biasing device 284 can be in contact with and/or abut against the first retention structure 238 and/or the first end 242 of the second housing portion 224. The second end 288 of the biasing device 284 can be in contact with and/or abut against the first end 272 of the dispense structure 270.
While the illustrated example illustrates one biasing device 284, it will be appreciated that in other examples, any number of biasing devices (e.g., one or more) may be provided. For example, in another embodiment, the hygiene system 100 can comprise the biasing device 284 disposed in the first housing channel 260 and a second biasing device disposed in the second housing channel 262. In such an example, the dispense structure 270 can be movable in two directions (e.g., left and right as illustrated in FIG. 2), with the two biasing devices biasing the dispense structure 270 towards a closed position.
In some examples, a seal 290 can be attached to the nozzle 208 and may project from the nozzle 208 towards the dispense structure 270. In such an example, the seal 290 can extend between the nozzle 208 and/or the attachment wall 232 on one side towards a surface of the dispense structure 270 on an opposing side. The seal 290 can contact the surface of the dispense structure 270 as the dispense structure 270 moves between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position. In such an example, by contacting the surface of the dispense structure 270, the seal 290 can limit an unintended passage of hygiene product 104 past the seal (e.g., left and right in FIG. 2) and into an area surrounding the nozzle 208 (e.g., between the support wall 206 and the first housing portion 222).
Turning to FIG. 6, an overhead, top down view of the dispense structure 270 having the dispense opening 282 is illustrated. It will be appreciated that in this example, the dispense structure 270 is illustrated without the other portions of the hygiene system 100 for the purposes of illustration and to more clearly illustrate portions of the dispense structure 270. In this example, the dispense opening 282 is laterally offset from the opening 210 (illustrated with dashed lines because the opening 210 is normally not visible from the illustrated perspective) in the nozzle 208. As such, the hygiene product 104 is substantially restricted from flowing from the opening 210 in the nozzle 208 and through the dispense opening 282.
To allow for a dispense event, the dispense structure 270 can be moved along a first movement direction A (e.g., left to right in FIG. 6). As illustrated in FIG. 6, the dispense structure 270 may initially be in the closed dispense position, in which the dispense structure 270 is configured to block the valve 208 and restrict the flow of the hygiene product 104 past the dispense structure 270.
Turning to FIG. 7, in an example, the dispense structure 270 can be moved along the first movement direction A, at least until the dispense opening 282 is substantially aligned with the opening 210 in the nozzle 208. The dispense structure 270 can be moved in any number of ways, such as by a pushing and/or a pulling force applied by the user. For example, the user can selectively grip the dispense structure 270 and move the dispense structure along the first movement direction A.
With the dispense opening 282 aligned with the opening 210, the dispense structure 270 is in the opened dispense position, in which the hygiene product 104 can be dispensed through the opening 210, through the dispense opening 282, and past the dispense structure 270. In this example, the user can squeeze the container 102, which can cause the valve 208 to move to the opened valve position. As such, the hygiene product 104 can be dispensed through the opening 210, past the valve 208, and through the dispense opening 282. When the user no longer desires to dispense the hygiene product 104, the user can release the dispense structure 270, whereupon the biasing device 284 can cause the dispense structure 270 to move (e.g., along a second movement direction B) from the opened dispense position (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 7) back to the closed dispense position.
It will be appreciated that in some examples, the hygiene system 100 can allow for tracking of dispense events (e.g., dispensing of the hygiene product 104). This tracking of dispense events can be beneficial for a number of reasons. For example, the tracking allows for a relatively accurate determination of when the hygiene system 100 is close to running out of the hygiene product 104 (e.g., volume and/or level sensing), a determination of whether a user triggered a dispense event at an appropriate time (e.g., after using a restroom, before coming into contact with a patient, after handling unsanitary materials, etc.), etc.
In an example, to allow for tracking of dispense events, the hygiene system 100 may comprise one or more magnets. The one or more magnets can be coupled to one or more portions of the hygiene system 100, such as to the container 102, the dispense structure 270, the housing, etc. In such an example, a magnet can detect a presence and/or a non-presence of another magnet. In an example, this detection can be based, at least in part, on the dispense structure 270 moving between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position. In response to this detection, the dispense event can be tracked and stored, thus allowing for a determination of hygiene compliance, volume of the hygiene product 104, etc.
The hygiene system 100 may include a magnet 800 attached to the second housing portion 224 (though, in other examples, the first magnet 800 could be attached to the container 102, the first housing portion 222, etc.). The magnet 800 comprises any number of sizes/shapes. In an example, the magnet 800 may be attached to an upper surface of the second housing portion 224. The upper surface in this example faces away from the container 102.
The hygiene system 100 may include a compliance system 804 attached to one or more of the dispense structure 270, the housing 220, the container 102, etc. In general, the compliance system 804 can be used to track and/or monitor the number of times that dispense events occur. A dispense event may occur when the user moves the dispense structure 270 from the closed dispense position to the opened dispense position. Tracking the number of dispense events with the compliance system 804 may be beneficial so as to comply with hygiene protocols and procedures that ensure that personnel are adopting habits that are efficacious in the prevention of disease transmission. Indeed tracking the number of dispense events with the compliance system 804 may be beneficial in a number of different environments, including, but not limited to, hospitals, schools, nursing homes, restaurants, factories, etc.
The compliance system 804 can be attached in any number of ways to the dispense structure 270, the housing 220, the container 102, etc. For example, the compliance system 804 can be attached by mechanical fasteners (e.g., nuts, bolts, screws, etc.), adhesives, snap fit and/or locking structures, or the like. In an example, the compliance system 804 may be attached to an upper surface and/or may be in communication with the first magnet 800.
An example of the compliance system 804 is illustrated in FIG. 10. The compliance system 804 may include a magnet sensor 1000. The magnet sensor 1000 can detect a presence of the first magnet 800 when the dispense structure 270 is in the closed position. The magnet sensor 1000 can detect the non-presence of the magnet 800 when the dispense structure 270 is in the opened dispense position. For example, the magnet sensor 1000 can include a Hall effect magnet sensor. In an example, the magnet sensor 1000 is configured to detect the proximity of the magnet 800 with respect to the magnet sensor 1000. When the magnet 800 is greater than a predetermined distance away from the magnet sensor 1000, the magnet sensor 1000 can detect this non-presence of the magnet 800. In the case of a Hall effect magnet sensor 1000, the magnet sensor 1000 may vary its voltage output in response to the changing magnetic field (e.g., the magnet 800 being greater than a predetermined distance from the magnet sensor 1000).
The compliance system 804 may include a controller 1002. The controller 1002 is coupled to the magnet sensor 1000 and may receive signal(s) from the magnet sensor 1000 indicative of the magnet sensor 1000 detecting the presence and/or non-presence of the magnet 800. The controller 1002 can include a logic controller (e.g., microcontroller, etc.).
The compliance system 804 may include a power source 1004. The power source 1004 is coupled to the controller 1002. The power source 1004 may power the controller 1002, the magnet sensor 1000, etc. The power source 1004 comprises any number of structures that can provide power, such as batteries, solar cells, or the like.
The compliance system 804 may include memory 1006. The memory 1006 is coupled to the controller 1002 and to the magnet sensor 1000. The memory 1006 can store data from the magnet sensor 1000, such as information related to the magnet sensor 1000 detecting the presence and/or non-presence of the magnet 800. For example, the memory 1006 can store a number of dispense events, wherein a dispense event corresponds to the magnet sensor 1000 detecting the non-presence of the magnet 800 when the dispense structure 270 is moved between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position. In some examples, the memory 206 can be reset such that the number of dispense events stored within the memory 1006 can be erased. The memory 1006 can be reset/erased in any number of ways, such as by depressing a button, switch or the like, in an example.
The compliance system 804 may include a signaling component 1008. The signaling component 1008 may be coupled to the controller 1002, the magnet sensor 1000 and/or to the memory 1006. In an example, the signaling component 1008 can emit a signal when the magnet sensor 1000 detects the non-presence of the magnet 114. The signaling component 1008 includes any number of structures that can emit a visual and/or audible signal. In an example, the signaling component 1008 comprises a light, such as one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). In such an example, the signal emitted by the signaling component 1008 comprises a light. In another example, the signaling component 1008 comprises a speaker or microphone, such that the signal emitted by the signaling component 1008 comprises an audible noise, such as an alarm, beep, or the like. In other examples, the signaling component 1008 may include both the visual device (e.g., LED(s)) and the audible device (e.g., speaker or microphone).
The compliance system 804 may include a transmitter 1010. The transmitter 1010 may be coupled to the controller 1002, the memory 1006, the magnet sensor 1000, etc. The transmitter 1010 can transmit or otherwise communicate signals, such as a hygiene compliance signal to a remote monitoring device 1020. In an example, the transmitter 1010 comprises a wireless transmitter, such that the transmitter 1010 transmits/communicates wireless signals. In these examples, the transmitter 1010 can transmit a wireless compliance signal 1030 that is indicative of the magnet sensor 1000 detecting the non-presence of the magnet 800. The transmitter 1010 comprises any number of wireless devices, including Bluetooth, radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), Wi-Fi, etc. As such, the wireless compliance signal(s) 1030 may comprise Bluetooth signals, RF signals, infrared (IR) signals, etc.
The wireless compliance signal 1030 can be transmitted to the remote monitoring device 1020. In an example, the wireless compliance signal 1030 can be transmitted from the compliance system 804 to the remote monitoring device 1020 when the remote monitoring device 1020 is brought into proximity with the compliance system 804. Data can be stored on the remote monitoring device 1020 in a manner so that it can be later analyzed and/or transferred to another device (e.g., computing device) for analysis. In one possible example, data can be stored in memory 1032 of the remote monitoring device 1020. The memory 1032 can include, for example, a portable memory unit such as a USB memory unit, SD memory unit, flash memory unit, flash memory, solid state hard drive, standard hard drive, removable hard drive, etc.
This data may be transferred from the remote monitoring device 1020 (e.g., from the memory 1032) to a compatible computing device for analysis of the data. For example, the hygiene compliance data may be processed for the generation of reports, for analysis, or for other reasons related to determining whether predetermined hygiene standards and protocols are being met.
In an example, a kit of parts may be provided for converting a dispensing system into a compliance hygiene system 100. In an example, the kit may include the magnet 800 and the compliance system 804, including the magnet sensor 1000, the controller 1002, the power source 1004, the memory 1006, the signaling component 1008, the transmitter 1010, etc. The kit of parts can be attached to container 102, the housing 220, the dispense structure 270, etc. in a similar manner as described and illustrated herein.
In operation, the dispense structure 270 may initially be in a closed dispense position (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 8). As such, the hygiene product 104 is substantially limited and/or restricted from being dispensed. When the dispense structure 270 is in the closed position, the magnet sensor 1000 may detect the presence of the magnet 800, in part, due to the relatively close proximity of the magnet 800 to the magnet sensor 1000. The magnet sensor 1000 may therefore detect that the dispense structure 270 is in the closed position.
As illustrated in FIG. 9, the dispense structure 270 may be moved to the opened dispense position. As such, the hygiene product 104 can be dispensed through the dispense opening in the dispense structure 270. In addition, the magnet sensor 1000 may detect the non-presence of the magnet 800. For example, a distance between the magnet 800 and the magnet sensor 1000 is increased to be greater than a predetermined distance. As such, the magnet sensor 1000 can detect this non-presence of the magnet 800 and vary its voltage output in response. This non-presence of the magnet 800 can be tracked/recorded as a dispense event, since the opening of the dispense structure 270 is indicative of a user dispensing the hygiene product 104. Accordingly, the memory 1006 may receive a signal from the magnet sensor 1000 that is indicative of this dispense event, and store the number of dispense events that have occurred.
After the dispense event has occurred, the dispense structure 270 may be moved from the opened dispense position to the closed dispense position. After the dispense structure 270 has been closed, the magnet sensor 1000 may detect the presence of the magnet 800. In such an example, the magnet sensor 1000 may be reset and/or disabled so as not to transmit a compliance signal or data. The magnet sensor 1000 may again transfer compliance signal or data upon the dispense structure 270 being re-opened.
To inhibit false positives and/or inadvertent tracking of dispense events, one or more features, structures, devices, or the like may be provided. In one possible example, a timer may be provided as part of the compliance system 804. In such an example, when the dispense structure 270 is moved between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position greater than a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time frame, then the dispense events may not be tracked. Indeed, such a situation may exist when the user is rapidly opening and closing the dispense structure 270 for non-dispense event reasons.
After the number of dispense events has been tracked and stored by the compliance system 804, this information can be transmitted to the remote monitoring device 1020 through the wireless compliance signal 1030. For example, the transmitter 1010 can transmit the wireless compliance signal 1030 that is indicative of the number of times the dispense structure 270 has been opened (e.g., number of dispense events). This wireless compliance signal 1030 can be received by the remote monitoring device 1020, whereupon the number of dispense events can be stored (e.g., within the memory 1032), analyzed, or the like.
A benefit of the illustrated system is that, since the magnet 800 is provided as part of a system for tracking dispense events, the magnet 800 is generally waterproof, such that the magnet 800 can be exposed to the hygiene product 104 with relatively little effect on the tracking of dispense events. Further, the compliance system 804 uses a relatively small amount of power, such that the compliance system 804 can be powered by a battery for a relatively long period of time.
It will be appreciated that the hygiene system 100 is not limited to comprising the magnet 800. Rather, in another example, one or more switches (e.g., switch 1100 illustrated in FIG. 11) may be provided in addition to and/or in the alternative to the magnet 800. The switch 1100 is configured to engage one or more of the dispense structure 270 or the housing 220. In such an example, the switch 1100 can be in contact with and/or abut against one or more of the dispense structure 270 or the housing 220. In such an example, the switch 1100 can be either opened or closed. When the switch is opened, an electrical circuit (e.g., as part of the compliance system 804) is broken, thus interrupting current from flowing through the switch 1100. When the switch is closed, an electrical circuit (e.g., as part of the compliance system 804) is completed, thus allowing for current to flow through the switch 1100.
The switch 1100 comprises any number of switches. For example, the switch 1100 may comprise a button/push-button switch or other similar electromechanical or electrical switches. The switch 1100 can function to open or close a circuit. In an example, when the dispense structure 270 is moved between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position, the switch 1100 may detect such movement and track this movement as a dispense event. The switch 1100 can interact with the compliance system 804 in a similar manner to the example described and illustrated herein with respect to the magnet 800. That is, when the dispense structure 270 moves between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position, the switch 1100 may detect such movement, and the compliance system 804 can track this movement as a dispense event.
Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing at least some of the claims.
Various operations of embodiments are provided herein. The order in which some or all of the operations described should not be construed to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. Alternative ordering will be appreciated having the benefit of this description. Further, it will be understood that not all operations are necessarily present in each embodiment provided herein. Also, it will be understood that not all operations are necessary in some embodiments.
Many modifications may be made to the instant disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless specified otherwise, “first,” “second,” or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first component and a second component correspond to component A and component B or two different or two identical components or the same component.
Moreover, “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, illustration, etc., and not necessarily as advantageous. As used in this application, “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. In addition, “a” and “an” as used in this application are to be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Also, at least one of A and B or the like means A or B or both A and B. Furthermore, to the extent that “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with”, or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to “comprising”.
Also, although the disclosure has been illustrated and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure. In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A hygiene system for dispensing a hygiene product, the hygiene system comprising:

a container within which the hygiene product is contained and from which the hygiene product is dispensed, the container comprising a nozzle that defines an opening through which the hygiene product is dispensed;

a valve attached to the nozzle and positioned in proximity to the opening, the valve movable between an opened valve position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the valve, and a closed valve position, in which the valve restricts a flow of the hygiene product through the opening and past the valve; and

a dispense structure attached to the container and movable with respect to the nozzle, the dispense structure movable between an opened dispense position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the dispense structure when the valve is in the opened valve position, and a closed dispense position, in which the dispense structure is configured to block the valve and restrict the flow of the hygiene product past the dispense structure.

2. The hygiene system of claim 1, comprising a biasing device configured to apply a biasing force to the dispense structure to bias the dispense structure towards the closed dispense position.

3. The hygiene system of claim 1, comprising a seal attached to the nozzle and projecting from the nozzle towards the dispense structure, the seal contacting a surface of the dispense structure as the dispense structure moves between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position.

4. The hygiene system of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a substantially planar support wall, the nozzle extending substantially perpendicularly from the support wall.

5. The hygiene system of claim 4, wherein the dispense structure defines a dispense opening through which the hygiene product is dispensed when the dispense structure is in the opened dispense position and the valve is in the opened valve position.

6. The hygiene system of claim 5, wherein the dispense opening is substantially aligned with the valve when the dispense structure is in the opened dispense position, the dispense opening not aligned with the valve when the dispense structure is in the closed dispense position.

7. A hygiene system for dispensing a hygiene product, the hygiene system comprising:

a dispense assembly comprising:

a housing attached to the container;

a dispense structure supported within the housing and movable with respect to the nozzle, the dispense structure movable between an opened dispense position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the dispense structure when the valve is in the opened valve position, and a closed dispense position, in which the dispense structure is configured to block the valve and restrict the flow of the hygiene product past the dispense structure; and

a biasing device supported within the housing, the biasing device configured to apply a biasing force to the dispense structure to bias the dispense structure towards the closed dispense position.

8. The hygiene system of claim 7, wherein the housing defines a first housing channel, positioned on a first side of the nozzle, and a second housing channel, positioned on a second side of the nozzle.

9. The hygiene system of claim 8, wherein the dispense structure comprises a first dispense portion and a second dispense portion, the first dispense portion of the dispense structure disposed in the first housing channel, the second dispense portion of the dispense structure disposed in the second housing channel.

10. The hygiene system of claim 9, wherein the biasing device is supported within the second housing channel of the housing, the biasing device engaging the second dispense portion of the dispense structure.

11. The hygiene system of claim 10, wherein a first end of the biasing device is configured to engage the housing, a second end of the biasing device configured to engage the dispense structure.

12. The hygiene system of claim 7, wherein the dispense structure is substantially non-planar.

13. A hygiene system for dispensing a hygiene product, the hygiene system comprising:

a valve attached to the nozzle and positioned in proximity to the opening, the valve movable between an opened valve position, in which the hygiene product is dispensed through the opening and past the valve, and a closed valve position, in which the valve restricts a flow of the hygiene product through the opening and past the valve;

a dispense assembly comprising:

a housing attached to the container;

a biasing device supported within the housing, the biasing device configured to apply a biasing force to the dispense structure to bias the dispense structure towards the closed dispense position; and

a seal attached to the nozzle and projecting from the nozzle towards the dispense structure, the seal contacting a surface of the dispense structure as the dispense structure moves between the opened dispense position and the closed dispense position.

14. The hygiene system of claim 13, wherein the dispense structure defines a dispense opening through which the hygiene product is dispensed when the dispense structure is in the opened dispense position and the valve is in the opened valve position.

15. The hygiene system of claim 14, wherein the dispense opening is substantially aligned with the valve when the dispense structure is in the opened dispense position, the dispense opening not aligned with the valve when the dispense structure is in the closed dispense position.

16. The hygiene system of claim 13, wherein the biasing device is positioned within a first housing channel, defined within the housing, positioned on a first side of the nozzle.

17. The hygiene system of claim 16, wherein the biasing device is configured to be compressed when the dispense structure moves to the opened dispense position.

18. The hygiene system of claim 13, wherein the dispense structure comprises a first dispense portion, a second dispense portion, and a central dispense portion, the central dispense portion positioned between the first dispense portion and the second dispense portion.

19. The hygiene system of claim 18, wherein the first dispense portion has a length that is different than the second dispense portion.

20. The hygiene system of claim 19, wherein the first dispense portion has a shorter length than the second dispense portion.