WO2017067936A1

WO2017067936A1 - Laundry product dosing device and laundry methods

Info

Publication number: WO2017067936A1
Application number: PCT/EP2016/074991
Authority: WO
Inventors: Deborah Jane Cooke; David Moorfield; Katharine Jane SHAW
Original assignee: Unilever Plc; Unilever N.V.; Conopco, Inc., D/B/A Unilever
Priority date: 2015-10-23
Filing date: 2016-10-18
Publication date: 2017-04-27
Also published as: EP3365489A1; BR112018006210B1; TR201803555U5; BR112018006210A2; CN214362315U

Abstract

A laundry product dosing device (1) for placing in a washing machine drum configured to house at least two laundry products, such that a first laundry product is segregated from a second laundry product in the device (1). Methods of laundering articles in an automatic washing machine using said devices. Methods of laundering articles when laundry products are sequentially released. Reservoir cartridges (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) containing laundry products suitable for use in said devices.

Description

Laundry product dosing device and laundry methods

The invention relates to a laundry product dosing device for placing in a washing machine drum. The device is configured to house at least two laundry products, such that a first laundry product is segregated from a second laundry product in the device. The invention further relates to a laundry product dosing device, wherein the device is configured to dispense separately two doses of laundry liquids. The invention further relates to methods of laundering articles in an automatic washing machine using said devices. The invention further relates to methods of laundering articles when laundry products are sequentially released. The invention further relates to reservoir cartridges containing laundry products.

Background

In the developed and developing world, washing machines are used for laundering articles, such as clothes and household linens. Laundry products, including detergent and often fabric conditioners, are added to the wash. In some cases, products are added via a drawer in the washing machine. In other cases, products are added directly to the drum. At its simplest, this may be sprinkling laundry detergent flakes on top of articles to be laundered before the wash cycle begins. However, increasingly commonly, liquid detergents are introduced into the drum via a dosing ball. Dosing balls are typically small plastic receptacles into which a consumer pours a measured amount of liquid detergent product. Dosing balls are an efficient way to introduce laundry products such as detergents into a wash: because the product is already within the drum, all of the product is used. Furthermore, when a product is added via a drawer, residues may remain after the wash. These may "carry over" into further washes, and may contribute to a build-up of slime in the drawer and pipes.

The formulation of liquid laundry products presents certain challenges. Specifically, the balance and ratio of ingredients must be carefully selected to ensure a stable formulation. This limits the relative ratios of certain ingredients. Furthermore, ingredients in liquid compositions are able to interact, and therefore may react, with each other. This can affect both short and long term stability of liquid laundry compositions, and preclude the use of certain ingredients in combination. Summary

The present invention seeks to address some of the problems associated with conventional dosing balls and automatic machine drawers. The invention relates to a laundry product dosing device that is sealable with a valve. Accordingly, in contrast to the dosing balls of the prior art, the laundry product in the laundry product dosing device of the present invention is sealed within the device when placed inside the washing machine drum. The device has a sensor which senses conditions within the washing machine drum (that is, the conditions experienced by the device). This information enables the device to generate a signal causing the laundry product to be dispensed. Through use of a plurality of chambers, segregated laundry products may be simultaneously dispensed and / or segregated laundry products may be dispensed sequentially.

This offers advantages over the dosing balls of the prior art. The dosing balls

conventionally used dispense their entire contents during the first stages of the wash cycle, when the dosing ball first overturns or is submerged in water. By contrast, the device and methods of the invention enable sequential dosing at points throughout the wash cycle based on the device's determination of the conditions inside the drum.

As the device enables laundry liquids to be segregated prior to dispensing, greater flexibility of the combinations of ingredients and their relative ratios used to make up a wash liquor may be accessed: there is no need to formulate all of the ingredients in a single product.

Furthermore, as the laundry product in the device of the invention is sealed when it is placed into the wash, it is not accessible to children and pets. Potential access is a particular concern where a laundry load is prepared in the machine, but the cycle not started for any of a number of reasons. Laundry products may be harmful if ingested, in contact with the skin for prolonged periods, or if brought into with mucus membranes such as eyes. The sealed nature of the device also means that the risk of damage to clothes is reduced. With a dosing ball as is currently used, laundry product may be spilt when the ball is placed in the drum. This means that concentrated laundry product may come into contact with articles without water; this is a particular concern if a wash is delayed, for example to take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity or if the intention is to start the wash after a particular family activity has ended or when the family leave the home.

Dosing device in the context of this specification refers to a device for dispensing an amount of laundry product. In other words, the dosing device may be termed a dispensing device.

Accordingly, in one aspect the present invention relates to a laundry product dosing device for placing in a washing machine, the device having a sensor and at least one chamber for housing laundry product, the chamber(s) being sealable by a valve, wherein the valve is openable on receipt of a signal.

The sensor obtains readings of the conditions inside the drum. It will be appreciated that the conditions within the drum will vary depending on whether or not a wash program is in progress, and the stage or cycle of the wash program at that point. Common cycles and stages in a wash program, and typical conditions associated therewith, are described below. Typically, the device will comprise a processor. This processor is configured to interpret the measurements taken by the sensor, and generate a signal which causes the or each valve to open (for example, through opening of an electronic valve, or through increasing the pressure of the laundry product).

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

Suitably, the device comprises a sensor, processor, and dispensing means in electronic communication. The, any, or each dispensing means may be a valve itself (in other words, the valve may be electronic and open on receipt of a signal to dispense laundry product) or may be a pressure generating means configured to increase the pressure of the laundry product such that pressure is exerted on the valve and the value opens. ln some cases, the sensor, processor, and valve(s) are in electronic communication and the value is configured to open on receipt of a signal.

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

In some cases, the device comprises a pressure generating means configured to increase the pressure of the laundry product such that pressure is exerted on the valve and the value opens. This may be, for example, a piston arrangement or a bellows system which may primed with a spring and set in motion when it receives the signal from the processor.

In some cases, more than one laundry product is dosed at the same point in the wash program. In other words, in some cases, two or more compositions are dispensed together into the wash liquor. Accordingly, the device may be configured to dispense two or more compositions at the same time, for example by sending suitable "dispense" signals to each dispensing means. This enables wash liquor compositions to be obtained in the drum that may not be possible using only a single liquid product. It also enables the activity and benefit of the liquor to be tailored to suit purpose. For example, in summer a sun screen may be dispensed at the same time as a fabric conditioner, while in winter the sun screen may be omitted.

In some cases, a first laundry product is dispensed at a first time in the wash program, and a further laundry product is dispensed at a subsequent time in the wash program. For example, in some cases, a first laundry product is dispensed at the beginning of the wash cycle, while a further laundry product is dispensed later in the wash program, during a rinse cycle. Accordingly, the device may be configured to dispense a first laundry product at a first time in the wash program, and a further laundry product at a subsequent time in the wash program. For example, the first laundry product may be a detergent laundry product, and may comprise surfactant, and optionally an enzyme. A second laundry product may be also be dispensed in the wash cycle, for example, at substantially the same time point as the first laundry product. This second laundry product may "boost" benefit through providing greater quantities of an ingredient such as a surfactant or provide alternative activity, which may be targeted to the wash. For example, it may comprise an enzyme.

The further laundry product may be dispensed in the first rinse. As described herein, it may be advantageous to form a wash liquor comprising certain ingredients during the first rinse cycle, thereby extending the benefit effects beyond the wash cycle.

The further laundry product or an additional further laundry product may be dispensed in the second rinse. Suitable laundry products for dispensing during the second rinse cycle are described herein.

Additionally or alternatively, the device may be configured to dispense laundry product in further rinse cycles.

It will be appreciated that the device of the invention is placed in a washing machine drum before a wash cycle begins. It may be placed on top of the articles to be laundered, as is conventional with a dosing ball, or because the laundry product is sealed within the device at this stage, the device may simply be "gathered up" with the articles to be laundered and placed in the machine. In some cases, the device is suitable for use in a domestic washing machine. Suitably, in some cases, the device is dimensioned to be placed in the drum by hand, for example, it may be dimensioned to sit in an adult user's hand.

The senor determines conditions within the washing machine drum. In other words, it may be configured to detect conditions within the drum. The sensor may detect across a range of conditions, detecting incremental or continuous variation, and feed this information to the processor, or it may simply operate between two states (a first state and second state, which may be simply on and off). It will be appreciated that a variety of sensors may be used to determine conditions within the washing machine drum. The sensor may be, without limitation, selected from an accelerometer, a gyrometer (sometimes called a gyroscope), a magnetometer, a thermometer, a microphone, and conductivity meter. An accelerometer or gyrometer measures the movement and/or vibration of and within the drum: in detail, an

accelerometer measures the vibrations experienced by the device inside the drum and a gyrometer measures the orientation of the device with respect to gravity and the rate of rotation of the device. A microphone may take a raw sound recording and / or determine the noise volume within the drum. Naturally, a thermometer measures the temperature within the drum. A conductivity meter may be used both to determine the presence of water, and to determine the ion content of water. This latter determination may provide indication readings as to water hardness (in other words, carbonate and bicarbonate ionic content) and the presence of certain laundry product ingredients such as ionic surfactants. A magnetometer measures the core magnetic field and variations in magnetic field. This can be used to detect and/or measure the output from the motor in the washing machine.

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

Preferably, the device comprises a plurality of sensors. By obtaining multiple lead-ins, the processor is able more accurately to determine the conditions. Data obtained from each of the sensors may be considered additively, or may be cross referenced. For example, vibration above a certain threshold combined with increasing or copious water content, and/or elevated temperatures, may indicate a wash cycle or rinse cycle.

Similarly, high vibration, optionally with decreasing water content, may indicate a spin cycle. It will be appreciated that each sensor may be selected from an accelerometer, a gyrometer, a magnetometer, a thermometer, a microphone, and a conductivity meter. Each sensor in the device may be different, or the device may comprise more than one sensor of a certain type. For example, the device may comprise two accelerometers and so on. Multiple sensors may use the same processor. It will be appreciated that the location of a sensor on or within the device may be determined by the nature of the sensor. For example, it may be preferable that a thermometer or conductivity meter is located on the exterior of the device, as it is here that the sensor will be in best contact with the liquid in the drum. The device may be provided with one or more channels to permit water ingress to the sensors, enabling the sensors to be located at a more protected position within the drum casing. Without limitation, an accelerometer, a gyrometer, a magnetometer, and a microphone may be provided as part of a printed circuit board (PCB). The printed circuit board may also serve as the processor. Accordingly, in some cases, the processor is integral with the sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the processor may be integral with the valve.

Suitably, the device comprises a power source to provide power to at least the processor. The power source may, for example, be a windable mechanism or a battery. Preferably, it is a battery, for example, a rechargeable battery. In some cases, the device may comprise a power docking station to enable the device power source to be charged without the need to remove the power source from the device.

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

In some cases, the device comprises a plurality of chambers into which liquid laundry product is added. Each chamber is sealable by a valve. It will be appreciated that laundry product is added to a chamber for use; for example, the exterior of the chamber or a portion of the exterior of the chamber (the chamber wall) may be detachable from the device. For example a portion of the device may unscrew to provide at least two open chambers into which laundry products are poured by the user. Mating this with the remainder of the device forms the chambers.

Laundry product may also be introduced into the device in the form of reservoir cartridges. A reservoir cartridge may have stiff walls. A reservoir cartridge may have flexible walls. It will be appreciated that the cartridge may be configured to suit the dispensing means used. Said reservoir cartridge may be, without limitation, a pouch or stiff plastic container. Each reservoir cartridge is fixable in the chamber, such that the reservoir cartridge is sealable by the valve. Suitably, therefore, the chamber comprises mating means configured to engage with complementary mating means on the reservoir such that, when in place, the reservoir cartridge is held securely within the chamber and laundry product within the reservoir cartridge is contained or released according to whether the valve of the device is in a closed or open state.

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

In some cases, the further laundry product is a fabric treatment agent, for example, a fabric conditioner, that is desirably released towards the end of the wash program, for example, in the final or penultimate rinse. Examples of other fabric treatment agents that may be desirably released later in the wash program may include, without limitation, UV protectors, perfumes, water repellents, and insect repellents.

Accordingly, in some cases, the further laundry product is a fabric conditioner. In some cases, the laundry product may be a fabric treatment agent selected from a UV protector, a perfume, a water repellent, and an insect repellent. The signal to dispense the product may be generated by the processor when the processor determines a certain

predetermined set of conditions has been met. For example, and without limitation, the signal may be generated when the device determines that the first rinse cycle is in progress, the second rinse cycle in progress, the third rinse cycle in progress. It will be appreciated that different machines vary in the number of rinse cycles. It will also be appreciated a single machine typically provides a variety of wash programs, which may themselves comprise different numbers of rinse cycles. To optimise the balance of machine/program compatibility and maximising fabric conditioner or treatment agent benefits, preferably, the product may be dispensed during the second rinse cycle.

Accordingly, the device, for example, the processor, may comprise a means for counting repetition in conditions and may be configured to generate a signal at a subsequent instance of certain conditions. In other words, the device, for example the processor of the device, may be configured to detect a first rinse cycle, then detect one or more further rinse cycles and, recognising the pattern of repetition and the iteration number, generate a signal to cause the valve to open, thereby dispensing laundry product.

Suitably, the device is reusable. In other words, suitably the chamber is suitable to be refilled as necessary. For example, the device maybe used in place of a dosing ball, filled before each wash. Alternatively, the device may be configured to last for a plurality of washes. For example, a first chamber/reservoir may be dispensed in a first wash, and a further chamber/reservoir dispensed in a further wash. Alternatively or additionally, the or each chamber may be configured to dispense only a portion of total volume of laundry product houseable therein. In this way, the device may be used for a plurality of cycles without need for refilling.

Suitably, the device is suitable for domestic use. Suitably, the device is dimensioned and of appropriate weight to be used one-handed (for example, it may be held in one hand while laundry product is poured into the chamber or a cartridge is fitted with the other hand). For example, the device may have a length of less than 20 cm, optionally less than 15 cm. The device may weigh less than 1 kg, for example, less than 750 g, less than 500 g, or even lighter. The device exterior may comprise a plastic shell, for example a moulded plastic shell.

The device may further comprise a light, suitably visible from the exterior of the device. Said light may illuminate to indicate that the device is on, or ready to be used in a wash. Suitably, the light is in electronic communication with the processor. Preferably, the colour and/or intensity of the light alters in response to changes in sensor readings (through a portion or the entirety of the colour spectrum and from off to visible, optionally variation in brightness). In other words, the colour and or/intensity of the light may be changeable in response to a signal generated by said processor. For example, and not by way of limitation, the light colour and/or intensity may alter to signify the stage in the wash program (to indicate a particular cycle or phase), to signify that the or a laundry product has been dispensed, to indicate water temperature, or to warn that a program is nearly complete. Additionally or alternatively, the light colour and/or intensity may be configured to indicate which boosters or custom option cartridges have been selected.

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

The reservoir cartridge may be sealed with a frangible film which is pierced or otherwise broken on mating with the device such that, when the valve opens, the reservoir cartridge dispenses product. The film may, for example, be foil or plastics material.

Reservoir cartridges housing different laundry products may be the same size or different.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method of laundering articles in a washing machine, the method comprising

(i) providing a wash liquor in the drum of the machine using at least one

laundry product dispensed before or during the wash cycle; then

(ii) dispensing a further laundry product into the wash liquor at a later time during said wash cycle; and / or (iii) providing a wash liquor in the drum of the machine using at least one laundry product dispensed during the first rinse cycle.

Suitably, the laundry product in step (i) is dispensed at the beginning of the wash cycle. Later time during the wash cycle, in the present context, shall be understood to be a time that is not at the beginning of the wash cycle (in other words, not in the first 2 minutes). The later time may be at least 5 minutes after the wash cycle begins, for example at least 7 minutes, at least 10 minutes. The later time may correspond to certain conditions, for example, when the wash liquor reaches a certain temperature as described herein.

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

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

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

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

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the invention provides a method of laundering articles in a washing machine, the method comprising introducing laundry product into the or a chamber of a device according to the first aspect, placing the device in the washing machine drum with the articles, and running a wash program. Laundering in this context refers to both cleaning, for example, with a detergent product and other fabric treatment (for example, conditioning) within a washing machine.

The step of introducing laundry product may comprise opening the chamber, pouring a liquid laundry product into the chamber, then sealing the chamber. The step of introducing laundry product may comprise opening the chamber, fitting a reservoir cartridge containing laundry product to mating means within the chamber such that the reservoir cartridge is sealable by the or a valve, and closing the chamber.

Suitably, more than one laundry product is introduced. In other words, more than one reservoir cartridge is introduced. It will be appreciated that the reservoir cartridges may be selected to suit the type of articles to be laundered and the type and degree of soiling. The washing machine may be a front-loading washing machine or a top-loading washing machine. The washing machine may be a domestic washing machine or an industrial (for example, commercial) scale washing machine.

It will be appreciated that all preferences and optional features are combinable, except where expressly stated otherwise.

DESCRIPTION

The invention will now be described without limitation with reference to the following diagrammatical drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows (left hand side) a device according to the present invention with the chamber partially open and four reservoir cartridges in place and (right hand side) a device according to the present invention with one reservoir cartridge not mated within the chamber.

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

Figure 3 shows data obtained by a gyroscope across an entire front-loading washing machine program. The cycles of the machine program are marked. The device 1 as shown in Figure 1 has a housing separable into two parts, a base 2 and a lid 3. The base and the lid mate together to form the exterior of the device and to define a chamber 4. The exterior of the device is made from moulded plastics material. The device is ovoid, the rounded shape reducing the risk of damage to articles. Of course, the device could be provided in other shapes, for example spherical. The device comprises a rubberised buffer portion 5 which may protect the device if dropped, and reduce noise and the risk of damage during use in the drum. In the device as shown, the buffer portion 5 is shaped to ease disengagement and engagement of the base 2 and lid 3. A shaped recess portion 6 is provided on the base to assist handling. It will be appreciated that the arrangement of buffer portions (if present) and recessed portions (if present) may be varied. Textured portions to improve grip during use may also be provided.

The chamber 4 houses four reservoir cartridges 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d. Prior to use, each of these may house a laundry product. Suitable laundry products are described herein. For example, 7a may house a detergent composition, 7b an enzyme composition (enzymes are not always compatible, so it is advantageous to provide them in separate cartridges - for example, 7a may include a lipase, while the composition of 7b may include a protease); 7c may contain a brightener, and 7d may contain a fabric conditioner.

The reservoir cartridges 7 are quarter segment shaped in cross section, such that they fit together snugly in the chamber, maximising space efficiency. Naturally, the segment shape will depend on the number of cartridges to be housed. Each reservoir cartridge as shown in the left-hand picture is mated within the chamber 4. For clarity, the right-hand picture shows a reservoir cartridge 7d disengaged from the chamber housing. In other words, the cartridge is being inserted.

The reservoir cartridges mate with the chamber by complementary mating means (not shown). The chamber bottom comprises four valves (not shown). Each valve is provided along a conduit between the chamber and exterior of the device.

Each reservoir cartridge mates with the chamber mating means such that it is sealable by the valve. At this stage, each valve is in its closed state. Suitable mating means are apparent to the skilled person, but include a push-lock fitting (for example, the chamber may comprise a recess into which a portion of the reservoir is inserted snugly - a rim or other protrusion(s) may be provided to result in audible or tactile feedback. The reservoir cartridges have an aperture frangibly sealed with a foil film or similar. This film is broken when the cartridge mates with the device. The respective valve then seals the reservoir. Accordingly, to use, the user selects appropriate cartridges for the articles and degree and nature of soiling, inserts them into the chamber as described, and replaces the lid 3. The device is then placed in the drum with the articles. The wash program may be started immediately, or may be delayed. The device comprises at least one sensor and a processor located in the base 2. The device further comprises a power source, for example a battery which may be conventional, disposable battery, or a rechargeable battery. When the wash cycle begins, the sensor(s) gather data concerning the conditions in the drum. These data are relayed to the processor. The processor is programmed to open each of the valves (by sending a "dispense" signal to said valve) under certain predetermined conditions, which may include assessing repetition of certain conditions (for example, detecting a second rinse cycle). When a valve opens, the content of the reservoir cartridge is dispensed into the water/wash liquor. Variations will be apparent to one of skill in the art. For example, in a further

embodiment, the valve is not electronically-controlled. Instead, it is non-drip valve, for example, a non-drip silicone valve. The device comprises a pressure generating means configured to increase the pressure of the laundry product such that pressure is exerted on the valve and the value opens. For example, the device may comprise a bellows or piston.

It will also be appreciated that options and preferences relating to the devices described herein may be applied to methods described herein and vice versa, except where such a combination is expressly excluded.

Segregation - Laundry product ingredients

The present invention enables individual ingredients of the laundry product(s) to be segregated in different compositions. This segregation offers at least the following advantages when compared to a conventional dosing ball containing a single laundry liquid product, as is presently used:

1. Different ingredients, or combinations of ingredients, can be dosed at different times during the wash program.

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

3. Relative ratios of ingredients can be used that are outside the normal limits of liquid laundry compositions stability.

Naturally, it will be appreciated that the same ingredients, and indeed the same ratios of ingredients, may be present in different chambers. Accordingly, the invention may provide the following further advantage:

4. The same ingredient or combination of ingredients can be dosed repeatedly (twice, or even more times) as the wash program progresses.

For example, a first chamber may be used to house a detergent composition comprising an enzyme, for example a lipase, while a second chamber may house a further composition comprising a lipase. Advantageously, the first composition can be dosed before or during the wash cycle, while the second composition comprising a lipase may be dosed later during the wash cycle, or even during a first rinse cycle, thereby "topping up" the enzyme activity and improving wash performance. It will be appreciated that other suitable enzymes may be used, for example, lipases, proteases, amylases, mannanases, cellulases, and pectate lyases. Additionally or alternatively, other ingredients may be topped up. Suitably, if the second composition is dispensed during the rinse cycle, the second composition does not foam. Accordingly, suitable the second composition contains less surfactant than the first by total weight surfactant, and may contain little or no surfactant. The present invention permits different compositions to be dispensed at different times during the wash programme. This permits dosage during a rinse cycle, for example the second rinse cycle, of a fabric treatment composition such as a fabric softener, a perfume, a sunscreen, a brightener, or an insect repellent. Other suitable compositions will be apparent to one skilled in the art.

Certain ingredients when combined lose efficacy or are incompatible on storage in a single liquid composition. For example, protease and lipase cannot usually be combined in a single liquid composition because as the protease may digest the lipase on storage. Similarly, protease may digest cellulase on storage in a liquid. However, lipase gives excellent benefits on removal of fats, while cellulase gives improved fabric treatment with colour preservation and pill removal and / or background whiteness benefit (depending on the cellulose used). Using the devices and methods of the present invention, a first composition comprising a protease may be provided in one chamber and / or reservoir, while a second composition comprising a lipase and / or a cellulase may be provided in a second separate chamber and / or reservoir. These compositions may themselves be introduced to the device in the form of sealed reservoir cartridges. The compositions may be released

simultaneously into the wash, such that the wash liquor benefits from the advantages of the protease and lipase and / or cellulase activity, giving wide range stain removal and / or better background whiteness on white fabrics and / or better garment and colour care by pill and fibril removal / prevention (depending on the enzymes selected). Either or both compositions may comprise detergent components, in addition to other conventional laundry liquid ingredients such as fragrances, builders, sequestrants, and so on.

Similarly, for soil and / or oil staining it may be advantageous to include a soil release polymer. In a single laundry liquid composition, lipase destroys soil release polymer on storage. Segregation of ingredients, as provided herein, enables access to benefits from both or all of these ingredients in a single wash.

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

It will also be appreciated that the segregation as provided herein permits tailoring of wash liquor composition to suit the fabric type and staining. For example, the laundry product may be a "standard" laundry liquid composition comprising a detergent and optionally an enzyme. The second laundry product, which may be released at the same as the first laundry product or released at a different point in the wash programme, may comprise a composition selected specifically to target the stains. For example, if the articles to be laundered have soil and / or oily stains, the second composition may be selected to include a soil release polymer. If the articles to be laundered are soiled with fat stains, a second composition comprising a lipase may be selected to improve stain removal. For example, if articles to be laundered include fabrics that are susceptible to pilling, a second laundry composition comprising a garment care cellulase may be selected. It will be appreciated that the devices and methods of the present invention further envisage third and fourth laundry liquids such that 2, 3, 4 or even more segregated compositions can be released during the wash programme, even at the beginning of the wash cycle. For example, at the start of the wash cycle the device could dispense three compositions: a detergent formulation, a lipase composition, and a soil release polymer composition.

Laundry liquid compositions are typically provided as an apparently single phase liquid, with certain viscosities being shown to be desirable to the consumer. To provide such an apparent single phase liquid, it is necessary to work within certain parameters of relative ratio quantities when formulating the product. The applicant has observed large benefits for adding extra sequestrant into the wash cycle, over and above the amounts typically tolerated in laundry formulations. Advices and methods of the present invention enable the use of larger quantities of sequestrant by providing all or additional sequestrant in a separate chamber and / or reservoir to be released alongside a "standard composition". Furthermore, the applicant has observed that the apparent benefits of greater sequestrant content are improved at lower pH. It will be appreciated that the present invention permits the provision of multiple liquid compositions, each having a different pH for storage and release into the wash liquor. The present invention further enables buffering of the wash liquor to adjust the pH during the wash to increase benefit.

Sequential Dosing

It will be appreciated that certain laundry products should be dosed at different points in the wash cycle; a detergent composition is typically used to form a wash liquor during the washing cycle, while a fabric softener is dosed via a washing machine drawer into the final rinse cycle. The device of the present invention maybe used to dose different laundry liquid products at different points during the wash program. Accordingly, the device may be configured to dispense the contents of a first chamber (which may be a detergent composition) before or during the wash cycle and the content of a further chamber (which may be a fabric softening composition) during a rinse cycle, for example the second rinse cycle. As discussed above, the contents of more than one chamber may be simultaneously dispensed. The devices of the invention however, offer a further advantage. It will be appreciated that the device may be configured to, using the information from the sensor(s), determine the present stage of the wash program. A signal to dispense one or more laundry liquids may be generated on detection of certain conditions. The device therefore permits the dosing of compositions at points in the wash program not presently accessible using a conventional machine.

Using the device, various ingredients may be dosed at the optimal point in the wash program to improve one or more of stain removal, background fabric whiteness on white fabrics, fragrance retention, wash program length, water consumption, water temperature, and ingredient compatibility. For example, the amount of a particular ingredient or combination of ingredients in the wash liquor during the wash cycle may be "topped up" partway through the wash cycle to boost efficacy. An ingredient may also be dosed to coincide with suitable environmental conditions, for example pH or temperature. For example, a composition comprising bleach may be dosed into the wash cycle when the wash liquor is at least 35 °C, for example, around 40 °C. The bleach may be more active at these elevated temperatures, and therefore give a better benefit.

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

It is desirable to dispense certain ingredients at the start, or very close to the start, of the wash cycle. This maximises the cleaning efficacy of the wash cycle. Suitably, the devices and methods of the invention dispense or are configured to dispense a composition comprising a surfactant at the beginning of the wash cycle. This composition may be termed a "detergent composition" or a first composition. The surfactant may be anionic, a fatty acid, non-ionic or zwitterionic, and may include a combination of surfactants. The surfactant content may include cationic surfactants. The compositions suitably comprises a builder, for example sodium carbonate, sodium citrate, or polymeric Sokalan CP5 type systems. It will be appreciated that other ingredients including but not limited to enzymes, bleach, sequestrant, a fluorescer, shading dyes and pigments, soil release polymers, anti-redep polymers, DTI polymers, photobleaches and fragrances may be included.

The skilled person will appreciate that this detergent composition may include all of the ingredients to perform a normal wash cycle.

The skilled person will appreciate that, as described herein, two or more segregated compositions may be dispensed at this stage.

Dosing during the first rinse cycle

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

In some cases, a composition comprising a lipase is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This offers a number of advantages. This separates the lipase from any protease in the wash liquors. Lipases work better at low surfactant concentrations, and so may be more effective in the rinse cycle when the surfactant used in the main wash has been substantially removing during draining and spinning. Furthermore, lipases may work better in the presence of an ionic surfactant such as linear alkyl benzene sulfonic acid (LAS) than in the presence of non-ionic surfactants. In some cases, a composition comprising a lipase and an ionic surfactant such as LAS is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. It will be appreciated that the amount of surfactant may be less than would be used in a wash cycle. Lipases may also be more effective at higher pH. For example, using the lipase at a pH greater than pH 7, suitably greater than pH 8, for example, about pH 8.5, about pH 9, about pH 9.5, or even about pH10 or higher, may be advantageous. Accordingly, in some cases a composition comprising a lipase is dispensed during the first rinse cycle with a buffer suitable to raise the pH as described. The buffer may be provided with the composition or as a separate composition. In other words, the device enables different stages of the wash to use active wash liquors (that is, solutions of dosed ingredients) at different pHs.

In some cases, a composition comprising a bleach is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This may provide access to improved bleach efficacy. Bleach is consumed by catalases, which accumulate on garments during normal wear. The catalases are at least partially, if not substantially removed during the wash cycle.

In some cases, a composition comprising a sequestrant such as one of the Dequest® family is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This may improve stain removal, for example by extending sequestrant activity from the wash cycle into the first rinse cycle.

In some cases, a composition comprising a soil release polymer (SRP) is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This may improve stain removal, for example by extending the time for deposition of the polymer from the duration of the wash cycle to the duration of the wash cycle plus the first rinse cycle. Owing to the mode of action of soil release polymers, residual layer on the articles may improve removal of subsequent (post-wash) soiling during further washes. In some cases, a composition comprising an anti-re-deposition polymer is dispensed during the first rinse cycle.

In some cases, a composition comprising dye transfer inhibition (DTI) polymer is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. Examples of DTI polymers include PVP, PVPI and PVPNO. It will be appreciated that some surfactant may be needed to stabilise the DTI polymer. Accordingly, in some cases, a composition comprising DTI and a surfactant is dispensed during the first wash cycle. It will be appreciated that the amount of surfactant may be less than would be used in a wash cycle.

In some cases, a composition comprising a builder is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. This may extend builder activity from the wash cycle into the first rinse cycle, and may improve background whiteness benefits on fabrics. In some cases, a composition comprising a carboxysilicone is dispensed during the first rinse cycle. A polymer such as LR400 may be included.

In some cases, a composition comprising a photobleach is dispensed during the first rinse cycle.

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

It may also be advantageous to dispense any of the above ingredients, additionally or alternatively, in rinse cycles other than the first rinse cycle, for example, in the second rinse cycle or first and second rinse cycle.

For example, it may be advantageous to dispense a builder during the second rinse cycle. Indeed, in some cases, a composition comprising a builder is dispensed each time water is added and / or any ingredient is dispensed. This helps to prevent calcium bridging of soils onto the textile.

Dosing in a late rinse cycle

Some ingredients are preferably dosed late in the wash programme such that they are at least partially retained on fabrics. Examples are described herein. Such ingredients may be dosed during the second / final rinse cycle. It will be appreciated that the final rinse cycle may be preferable for such ingredients. However, dosing such ingredients only during the second cycle, even if this is followed by a further rinse cycle, is typically sufficient. For a multi-dose device, a suitable composition may be dosed during each rinse cycle to ensure maximum retention on the fabric. This is advantageous as different machines, and indeed different cycles on the same machine, may use different numbers of rinse cycles. This ensures that suitable product is dosed during the final rinse cycle without the need to use the washing machine drawer, with the associated disadvantages. For completeness, it will be noted that dosing these ingredients only during the second rinse is typically sufficient. Sensors in operation

The following data show how sensors located in a device according to the invention gather data, and the processing of said data to generate the "dispense" signal.

In one example a sensor measuring acceleration with respect to gravity was used to measure the conditions within a commercial front-loading washing machine. Figure 2 shows data obtained by an accelerometer sensor (in x, y and z directions) in a

commercial front loading washing machine (Miele W1714). The sensor was contained within a protective casing and used with a model wash load totalling 1.5 kg fabric. Once the sensor was placed within the machine and a wash cycle initiated (30°C cotton cycle) the data profile shown was collected over the first two minutes. The pattern and values of signals measured by the sensor and processor can be used to determine a cycle has begun and a 'dispense' signal generated to enable dispensing of suitable wash product(s). In a further example, a gyroscope was used to measure the conditions in a front loading washing machine (Figure 3). The associated cycles and phases of the program are marked. As can be seen from the figure, each stage has a distinct measured signal pattern readily detectable to the device. The program begins with a wash cycle. As described above, device is able to interpret this as the beginning of the wash cycle; a "dispense" is generated to enable dispensing of suitable wash compositions(s).

Optionally, after a predetermined period of time within the wash cycle, one or more further suitable wash compositions may be dispensed. As can be seen from Figure 3, the first and each subsequent rinse phase shows a distinct and discernible pattern. These can be used to generate dispense signals to enable dispensing of suitable compositions during each rinse cycle, or a targeted rinse cycle. Examples of compositions that may be dispensed during rinse cycles are described herein.

Definitions

Wash program

A washing machine typically has one or more programs which the user selects to suit the articles to be laundered and the degree of soiling. Each program is a sequence of stages with varied conditions (duration, water/solution volume, speed, temperature). As used herein, the word cycle refers to an individual stage and the word program means a combination of those stages.

Typically, the stages of a wash program include:

1. a wash cycle (in which the drum is filled to a certain level and the articles agitated in the solution, then the solution drained); spinning may be used to aid solution removal; 2. a rinse phase (in which the drum is filled with water to a certain level and the articles agitated in the water, then the water drained); the rinse phase may include one or more rinse cycles, with two or three being frequently used; spinning may be used to aid solution/water removal;

3. a spin cycle, in which the basket is spun rapidly with the drain open such that remaining water, including water absorbed within the fabric of the articles, is removed by centrifugal force.

Laundry Product

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

The laundry product may be a detergent. In other words, it may perform some cleaning function. Detergent laundry products are known in the art and may include surfactants, builders, and enzymes. The laundry product may be a fabric treatment product (agent). In this context, fabric treatment agent refers to a product that may be used to treat or otherwise condition articles in a washing machine. Examples may include fabric conditions, UV protectors, water repellents, perfumes, and insect repellents. Accordingly, a method of laundering articles, as described herein may, but does not necessarily, include a cleaning product.

Sensor

The sensor is an electronic sensor. It is provided in electronic communication with the processor. Indeed, in some cases, the sensor(s) and processor are provided as a single unit. For example, the sensor and processor may be provided as a single printed circuit board or similar. As will be appreciated, more than one sensor may be present. For example, two or more sensors may be provided as a single unit, optionally with a processor.

Processor

At its most basic, the processor obtains data from the sensor, and is configured to generate a response to that data under certain conditions. Where only dispensing means (for example, only one electronic valve) is electronic communication with the processor, the processor states may be YES NO (for example corresponding to send a "dispense" and do not send a "dispense". It will be appreciated that in some cases, the processor may be configured to cross reference and interpret data from two or more sensors.

Where more than one sensor is present, each sensor may be in electronic

communication with a single processor, which sends the signal, or different sensors may be in electronic communication with different processors. Where more than one dispensing means (for example, only one electronic valve) is present, different dispensing means may be in electronic communication with different processors. In some cases, only one processor is provided.

Suitable valves

The valves are may be electric valves. They may also be referred to as electronic fluid flow controllers. Suitable valves include, without limitation, solenoid valves. The valves may be valves that are not electronic where other dispensing means (such as a plunger or bellows) are provided. The valves be pressure valves, for example, a squeezy non- drip type valve, which may be made of silicone. It is to be understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to a person skilled in the art and are included in the spirit and scope of the invention and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method of laundering articles in a washing machine, the method comprising

(i) providing a wash liquor in the drum of the machine using at least one

laundry product dispensed during the wash cycle; then

(ii) dispensing a further laundry product into the wash liquor at a later time during said wash cycle; and

(iii) providing a wash liquor in the drum of the machine using at least one

laundry product dispensed during the first rinse cycle.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein the further laundry product of step (ii) is the same as the laundry product of step (i).

3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the laundry products of each of steps (i) to (iii) are dispensed by a device located in the washing machine drum.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the laundry product dispensed during the first rinse cycle comprises one or more of: a an enzyme, a bleach, a sequestrant, a soil release polymer, an anti-redeposition polymer, a dye transfer inhibition polymer, a builder, a carboxylsilicone, and a photobleach.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the further laundry product

comprises one or more of: an enzyme, a bleach, a sequestrant, a soil release polymer, an anti-redeposition polymer, a dye transfer inhibition polymer, a builder, a carboxylsilicone, and a photobleach.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the laundry product is dispensed using a device as defined in any one of claims 7 to 1 1 .

7. A laundry product dosing device for placing in a washing machine drum, the

device comprising a sensor and a processor in electronic communication and configured to house at least two laundry products such that the laundry products are segregated, each laundry product being sealable within the device by a valve, the valve being openable on receipt of a signal generator by the processor to dispense laundry product in accordance with the method of any one of claims 1 to 5.

The device of claim 7, wherein the device is configured to dispense two laundry products simultaneously on receipt of a signal.

The device of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the device is configured to dispense a first laundry product at a first time in the wash program on receipt of a first signal, and a further laundry product at a subsequent time in the wash program on receipt of a further signal.

The device of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the device has a chamber configured to receive a plurality of reservoir cartridges, wherein the chamber comprises a first mating means to attach a first reservoir cartridge such that the reservoir cartridge is sealable by a first valve; the chamber further comprising a second mating means to attach a second reservoir cartridge such that the reservoir cartridge is sealable by a second valve; wherein the contents of the first reservoir are dispensable on receipt of a signal generated by a processor and the contents of the second reservoir are dispensable on receipt of a signal generated by a processor.

The device of any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein (A) the sensor, processor, and valve(s) are in electronic communication and each value is configured to open on receipt of a signal generated by the processor, or (B) the sensor and processor are in electronic communication with a plurality of pressure generating means configured to increase the pressure of the laundry products on receipt of a signal or plurality of signals generated by the processor such that pressure is exerted on the valve(s) such that the valve opens.

Use of a device according to any one of claims 7 to 1 1 in a method of laundering articles in an automatic washing machine, wherein a first laundry product comprises a protease and a second laundry product comprises a lipase and / or cellulase. Use of a device as defined in any one of claims 7 to 1 1 in a method accord any one of claims 1 to 5.

14. A reservoir cartridge comprising laundry product configured for use with a device according to any preceding claim.