WO2019020977A1 - Integrated hand washing system - Google Patents

Integrated hand washing system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019020977A1
WO2019020977A1 PCT/GB2018/052043 GB2018052043W WO2019020977A1 WO 2019020977 A1 WO2019020977 A1 WO 2019020977A1 GB 2018052043 W GB2018052043 W GB 2018052043W WO 2019020977 A1 WO2019020977 A1 WO 2019020977A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
alert
event
flush
unit
alert unit
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2018/052043
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Grahame Anthony White
Original Assignee
Grahame Anthony White
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GBGB1712102.1A external-priority patent/GB201712102D0/en
Priority claimed from GBGB1721602.9A external-priority patent/GB201721602D0/en
Application filed by Grahame Anthony White filed Critical Grahame Anthony White
Publication of WO2019020977A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019020977A1/en

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
    • E03D5/00—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system
    • E03D5/10—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated electrically, e.g. by a photo-cell; also combined with devices for opening or closing shutters in the bowl outlet and/or with devices for raising/or lowering seat and cover and/or for swiveling the bowl
    • E03D5/105—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated electrically, e.g. by a photo-cell; also combined with devices for opening or closing shutters in the bowl outlet and/or with devices for raising/or lowering seat and cover and/or for swiveling the bowl touchless, e.g. using sensors
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/05—Arrangements of devices on wash-basins, baths, sinks, or the like for remote control of taps
    • E03C1/055—Electrical control devices, e.g. with push buttons, control panels or the like
    • E03C1/057—Electrical control devices, e.g. with push buttons, control panels or the like touchless, i.e. using sensors
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B21/00—Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
    • G08B21/18—Status alarms
    • G08B21/24—Reminder alarms, e.g. anti-loss alarms
    • G08B21/245—Reminder of hygiene compliance policies, e.g. of washing hands
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K5/00—Holders or dispensers for soap, toothpaste, or the like
    • A47K5/06—Dispensers for soap
    • A47K5/12—Dispensers for soap for liquid or pasty soap
    • A47K5/1217—Electrical control means for the dispensing mechanism

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an integrated hand washing system for use with a toilet and particularly but not exclusively an integrated hand washing system for use with a toilet provided in a healthcare or food industry environment.
  • the present applicant has identified the need for an improved system for encouraging an increase in the rate of hand washing after toilet use.
  • an integrated hand washing system comprising: a flush detector unit operative to detect when a toilet or urinal is flushed and transmit (e.g. wired or wirelessly transmit) a flush event signal; and an alert unit (e.g. remote alert unit) operative to (e.g. wired or wirelessly) receive the flush event signal from the flush detector unit and, in response to receiving the flush event signal, generate an alert to remind a user to wash their hands.
  • a flush detector unit operative to detect when a toilet or urinal is flushed and transmit (e.g. wired or wirelessly transmit) a flush event signal
  • an alert unit e.g. remote alert unit
  • a washroom e.g. room or series of rooms including a toilet or urinal and a hand wash facility such as a wash basin and/or handwash dispenser.
  • the flush detector unit is typically provided in or adjacent a flush mechanism of the toilet or urinal and the alert unit is typically provided adjacent a hand wash facility in the washroom.
  • the toilet or urinal may manually or automatically flushed (e.g. with a flush mechanism that is activated by a user positively engaging the flush mechanism or by a sensor detecting a user has finished using the toilet or urinal).
  • the toilet or urinal may be supplied with water from a tanked or tankless flush system.
  • the flush detector unit may be operative to identify engagement of the flush mechanism or identify a water flow event (e.g. a change in water level in the tank in the case of a tanked flush supply).
  • a water flow event e.g. a change in water level in the tank in the case of a tanked flush supply.
  • the flush detector unit and alert unit communicate wirelessly (e.g. via Bluetooth or direct Wi-Fi).
  • the alert generated by the alert unit may be an audible and/or visible alert.
  • the alert unit may include a display device operative to display a visual alert (e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text).
  • An audible alert may take the form of an audible pre-recorded message reminding the user to wash their hands.
  • the alert unit further comprises a hand wash event detector operative to determine when a hand wash event has taken place.
  • the alert unit is operative to turn off the alert in response to the hand wash event detector determining that a hand wash event has taken place.
  • the alert unit is associated with (e.g. mounted on or provided within) a handwash dispenser operative to dispense handwash (e.g. any handwashing product such as a liquid soap or hand sanitiser product).
  • a handwash dispenser operative to dispense handwash (e.g. any handwashing product such as a liquid soap or hand sanitiser product).
  • the handwash dispenser is provided adjacent a wash basin.
  • the hand wash event detector is operative to detect a handwash dispense event (e.g. an event indicating that the handwash dispenser has been activated (e.g. when handwash is dispensed from the hand wash dispenser)).
  • a handwash dispense event e.g. an event indicating that the handwash dispenser has been activated (e.g. when handwash is dispensed from the hand wash dispenser)
  • the alert unit is electrically connected to the handwash dispenser.
  • the hand wash event detector may monitor one or more circuit components of the handwash dispenser (e.g. hand sensor component or pump activation component of a "touch- free" handwash dispenser).
  • the system further comprises a data capture device operative to record how many times a flush event signal is received and how many times a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is detected.
  • the data capture device is provided as part of the alert unit.
  • the alert unit is further operative to generate an alarm if a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is not detected within a predetermined period of time (e.g. predetermined period of time from receipt of the flush event signal from the flush detector unit).
  • the alarm is an audible alarm (e.g. a "bleeper").
  • the audible alarm may be configured to be audible both inside and outside of the washroom. In this way, in the workplace if an employee leaves the washroom without hand washing the alarm will clearly be heard.
  • the alarm is reset when a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is detected by the alert unit or after a further period of time (e.g. a period indicative that no hand wash event is likely to take place).
  • a hand wash event e.g. handwash dispense event
  • a further period of time e.g. a period indicative that no hand wash event is likely to take place.
  • the alarm may be optionally disabled.
  • the data capture device may be used to monitor hand washing rates and if compliance falls below expectation the alarm feature could be enabled by a system operator.
  • the system comprises a secondary alert unit located in proximity to the toilet or urinal, the secondary alert unit being operative (in response to a signal from the flush detector unit or alert unit after the flush detector unit has identified a flush event) to generate a secondary alert (e.g. audible or visual secondary alert) to remind a user to wash their hands.
  • a secondary alert e.g. audible or visual secondary alert
  • the secondary alert unit may include a display device operative to display a visual alert (e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text).
  • a visual alert e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text.
  • An audible alert may take the form of an audible pre-recorded message.
  • the alert unit is further operative to instruct the secondary alert unit (either directly or via the flush detector unit) to deactivate the secondary alert (e.g. upon detecting a hand wash event).
  • the secondary alert unit communicates wirelessly with the alert unit and/or flush detector unit.
  • an automated method of generating an alert to remind a user to wash their hands after using a toilet or urinal comprising: at a flush detector unit: detecting when a toilet or urinal has been flushed; and transmitting (e.g. wired or wirelessly transmitting) a flush event signal to an alert unit (e.g. remote alert unit); and at the alert unit: receiving (e.g. wired or wirelessly receiving) the flush event signal from the flush detector unit; and in response to receiving the flush event signal, generating an alert to remind a user to wash their hands.
  • an alert unit e.g. remote alert unit
  • the step of detecting when a toilet or urinal has been flushed comprises identifying engagement of a flush mechanism or identifying a water flow event (e.g. a change in water level in a tank in the case of a tanked flush supply).
  • a water flow event e.g. a change in water level in a tank in the case of a tanked flush supply.
  • the flush detector unit and alert unit communicate wirelessly (e.g. via Bluetooth or direct Wi-Fi).
  • the alert generated by the alert unit may be an audible and/or visible alert.
  • the alert unit may include a display device operative to display a visual alert (e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text).
  • An audible alert may take the form of an audible pre-recorded message reminding the user to wash their hands.
  • the method further comprises: at the alert unit, detecting when a hand wash event has taken place.
  • the method further comprises: at the alert unit, turning off the alert in response to determining that a hand wash event has taken place.
  • the alert unit is associated with (e.g. mounted on or provided within) a handwash dispenser operative to dispense handwash (e.g. any hand washing product such as a liquid soap or hand sanitiser product).
  • a handwash dispenser operative to dispense handwash (e.g. any hand washing product such as a liquid soap or hand sanitiser product).
  • the handwash dispenser is provided adjacent a wash basin.
  • the step of detecting when a hand wash event has taken place comprises detecting when a handwash dispense event has taken place (e.g. detecting when the handwash dispenser has been activated to dispense handwash). In one embodiment, the step of detecting when a handwash dispense event has taken place comprises monitoring one or more circuit components of the handwash dispenser (e.g. hand sensor component or pump activation component of a "touch-free" handwash dispenser).
  • the method further comprises: (e.g. at the alert unit) using a data capture device to record how many times a flush event signal is received and how many times a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is detected.
  • a hand wash event e.g. handwash dispense event
  • the method further comprises: at the alert unit, generating an alarm if a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is not detected within a predetermined period of time (e.g. predetermined period of time from receipt of the flush event signal from the flush detector unit).
  • a hand wash event e.g. handwash dispense event
  • the alarm is an audible alarm (e.g. a "bleeper").
  • the method comprises: at the alert unit, resetting the alarm when a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is detected by the alert unit or after a further period of time (e.g. a period indicative that no hand wash event is likely to take place).
  • a hand wash event e.g. handwash dispense event
  • the method further comprises optionally disabling the alarm.
  • the alarm is only enabled if data monitored by the data capture device indicates that hand washing compliance falls below an expected rate.
  • the method further comprises providing a secondary alert unit located in proximity to the toilet or urinal, and instructing the secondary alert unit (e.g. by sending a signal from the flush detector unit or alert unit after the flush detector unit has identified a flush event) to generate a secondary alert (e.g. audible or visual secondary alert) to remind a user to wash their hands.
  • a secondary alert e.g. audible or visual secondary alert
  • the secondary alert unit may include a display device operative to display a visual alert (e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text).
  • a visual alert e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text.
  • An audible alert may take the form of an audible pre-recorded message.
  • the method further comprises: at the alert unit, instructing the secondary alert unit (either directly or via the flush detector unit) to deactivate the secondary alert (e.g. upon detecting a hand wash event).
  • the secondary alert unit communicates wirelessly with the alert unit and/or flush detector unit.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view of an integrated hand washing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention comprising a toilet-mounted flush detector unit and a handwash dispenser;
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the flush detector unit
  • Figure 3 A is a schematic external view of the handwash dispenser
  • Figure 3B is a schematic internal view of the handwash dispenser.
  • Figure 4 is flow diagram illustrating operation of the integrated hand washing system of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 shows a smart integrated toilet flushing and hand sanitising system 10 comprising: a flush detector unit 20 mounted inside a cistern 32 of a toilet 30; an alert unit 40 mounted adjacent toilet 30; and a "touch-free" handwash dispenser 50 provided adjacent a wash basin 60 with water tap 62, handwash dispenser 50 including a handwash dispenser unit 70 and a handwash dispenser alert unit 80.
  • flush detector unit 20 comprises a microcontroller 22, a flush event sensor 24 and a wireless transmitter 26.
  • Flush event sensor 24 may take a variety of forms depending upon the type of flush mechanism used in toilet 30. For toilets with a cistern, flush event sensor 24 may sense the water level in the cistern (either directly or by sensing the position of a float valve arm of the flush mechanism).
  • handwash dispenser 50 comprises a casing 52 with a outlet nozzle 54, casing 52 housing handwash dispenser unit 70, handwash dispenser alert unit 80 and handwash reservoir (not shown).
  • the handwash may be a liquid soap or sanitiser gel or any other suitable hand cleansing product.
  • Handwash dispenser unit 70 comprises a microcontroller 72, a light emitter/receiver hand detector circuitry 74 to detect if a hand is placed beneath the outlet nozzle 54, and a pump 76 operative to dispense handwash (e.g. liquid soap or hand sanitiser gel) from handwash reservoir via outlet nozzle 54.
  • handwash e.g. liquid soap or hand sanitiser gel
  • Handwash dispenser alert unit 80 comprises a microcontroller 82, a hand wash event detector 84, a wireless receiver/transmitter 86, a display driver 88, an LED display panel 90, a sounder 92 and a data capture device 94.
  • Hand wash event detector may work in a variety of ways, but in one embodiment may link directly to hand detector circuitry 74.
  • microcontroller 82 of handwash dispenser alert unit 80 Upon receipt of a flush event signal from flush detector unit 20, microcontroller 82 of handwash dispenser alert unit 80 triggers display driver 88 to generate an alert in the form of a "Wash your hands" pictogram or text on LED display panel 90 and starts a timer.
  • toilet-mounted alert unit 40 is operative to receive a signal from flush detector unit 20 or handwash dispenser alert unit 80 and that triggers a secondary alert by displaying a (e.g. corresponding) "Wash your hands" pictogram or text on an LED screen 42 provided on toilet- mounted alert unit 40.
  • an audible alert may be provided from handwash dispenser alert unit 80 (e.g. a pre-recorded message reminding the user to wash their hands).
  • hand wash event detector 84 detects a hand wash event within a predetermined threshold time TA the visual alert is cancelled and the timer is reset. However, if the hand wash event detector 84 does not detect a hand wash event before the timer reaches the predetermined threshold time TA (in one example, TA may be in the range of 5-8 seconds), the visual alert is maintained and microcontroller 82 additionally triggers an audible alarm using sounder 92. In the case of a system installed in a workplace, if an employee leaves the washroom without hand washing the audible alarm may be configured to be clearly heard outside of the washroom. The audible alarm is switched off if a hand wash event is detected within a further period of time.
  • handwash dispenser alert unit is operative to instruct toilet-mounted alert unit 40 (either directly or via flush detector unit 20) to deactivate the secondary alert.
  • Data capture device 94 is operative to capture the amount of times a flush event signal is received by handwash dispenser alert unit 80 and how many times a hand washing event is detected. This should match and if not the managers can take action.
  • the audible alarm feature may be optionally be e.g. via an on/off switch or software setting).
  • Data capture device 94 may be used to monitor hand washing rates and if compliance falls below expectation the alarm feature could be enabled by a system operator. In this way the optional audible alarm feature may be used to influence behaviour.
  • the method implemented in system 10 comprises: sensing a flush event (step 100); transmitting a flush event signal to handwash dispenser alert unit 80 provided in handwash dispenser 50 (step 110); at handwash dispenser alert unit 80, activating visual alert at toilet-mounted alert unit 40 and handwash dispenser 50 (steps 120, 130), and starting a timer (step 140).
  • hand dispenser alert unit 80 senses a handwash dispense event within a time TA (step 150) the alert is reset (step 170). However, if no handwash dispense event is sensed by time TA then handwash dispenser alert unit 80 activates an audible alarm 160) which is subsequently cancelled upon sensing a handwash dispense event.
  • Handwash dispenser alert unit 80 may further be configured to perform the following functions: a) alerts a janitorial and/or Facilities Management ("FM") department that there is a system malfunction; b) alerts a janitorial and/or FM that the dispenser needs refilling; and c) identifies that a genuine handwash refills has been installed (e.g. by detecting a suitable security device on a handwash refill bottle when installed in handwash dispenser 50.
  • the alerts a) and b) can be communicated by: a message on the LED display panel 90 or a message (e.g. text message) sent to the Janitorial/FM.

Abstract

An integrated hand washing system (10) comprising: a flush detector unit (20) operative to detect when a toilet or urinal (30) is flushed and transmit a flush event signal; and an alert unit (40) operative to receive the flush event signal from the flush detector unit (20) and, in response to receiving the flush event signal, generate an alert to remind a user to wash their hands.

Description

TITLE: INTEGRATED HAND WASHING SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to an integrated hand washing system for use with a toilet and particularly but not exclusively an integrated hand washing system for use with a toilet provided in a healthcare or food industry environment.
The failure to wash hands after using the toilet is a major source of infection spread.
Statistics show that up to 40% of men and up to 25% of women fail to carry out this procedure after using the lavatory. The risk of infection spread is particularly significant in the Food and
Healthcare sectors.
The present applicant has identified the need for an improved system for encouraging an increase in the rate of hand washing after toilet use.
In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an integrated hand washing system comprising: a flush detector unit operative to detect when a toilet or urinal is flushed and transmit (e.g. wired or wirelessly transmit) a flush event signal; and an alert unit (e.g. remote alert unit) operative to (e.g. wired or wirelessly) receive the flush event signal from the flush detector unit and, in response to receiving the flush event signal, generate an alert to remind a user to wash their hands.
Typically the system is provided in a washroom (e.g. room or series of rooms including a toilet or urinal and a hand wash facility such as a wash basin and/or handwash dispenser).
The flush detector unit is typically provided in or adjacent a flush mechanism of the toilet or urinal and the alert unit is typically provided adjacent a hand wash facility in the washroom.
The toilet or urinal may manually or automatically flushed (e.g. with a flush mechanism that is activated by a user positively engaging the flush mechanism or by a sensor detecting a user has finished using the toilet or urinal). The toilet or urinal may be supplied with water from a tanked or tankless flush system.
The flush detector unit may be operative to identify engagement of the flush mechanism or identify a water flow event (e.g. a change in water level in the tank in the case of a tanked flush supply).
In one embodiment, the flush detector unit and alert unit communicate wirelessly (e.g. via Bluetooth or direct Wi-Fi).
In one embodiment, the alert generated by the alert unit may be an audible and/or visible alert. For example, the alert unit may include a display device operative to display a visual alert (e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text). An audible alert may take the form of an audible pre-recorded message reminding the user to wash their hands.
In one embodiment, the alert unit further comprises a hand wash event detector operative to determine when a hand wash event has taken place.
In one embodiment, the alert unit is operative to turn off the alert in response to the hand wash event detector determining that a hand wash event has taken place.
In one embodiment, the alert unit is associated with (e.g. mounted on or provided within) a handwash dispenser operative to dispense handwash (e.g. any handwashing product such as a liquid soap or hand sanitiser product).
In one embodiment, the handwash dispenser is provided adjacent a wash basin.
In one embodiment, the hand wash event detector is operative to detect a handwash dispense event (e.g. an event indicating that the handwash dispenser has been activated (e.g. when handwash is dispensed from the hand wash dispenser)).
In one embodiment, the alert unit is electrically connected to the handwash dispenser. For example, the hand wash event detector may monitor one or more circuit components of the handwash dispenser (e.g. hand sensor component or pump activation component of a "touch- free" handwash dispenser).
In one embodiment, the system further comprises a data capture device operative to record how many times a flush event signal is received and how many times a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is detected. In one embodiment, the data capture device is provided as part of the alert unit. In one embodiment, the alert unit is further operative to generate an alarm if a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is not detected within a predetermined period of time (e.g. predetermined period of time from receipt of the flush event signal from the flush detector unit).
In one embodiment, the alarm is an audible alarm (e.g. a "bleeper"). The audible alarm may be configured to be audible both inside and outside of the washroom. In this way, in the workplace if an employee leaves the washroom without hand washing the alarm will clearly be heard.
In one embodiment, the alarm is reset when a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is detected by the alert unit or after a further period of time (e.g. a period indicative that no hand wash event is likely to take place).
In one embodiment, the alarm may be optionally disabled. In the case of a system comprising a data capture device, the data capture device may be used to monitor hand washing rates and if compliance falls below expectation the alarm feature could be enabled by a system operator.
In one embodiment, the system comprises a secondary alert unit located in proximity to the toilet or urinal, the secondary alert unit being operative (in response to a signal from the flush detector unit or alert unit after the flush detector unit has identified a flush event) to generate a secondary alert (e.g. audible or visual secondary alert) to remind a user to wash their hands.
For example, the secondary alert unit may include a display device operative to display a visual alert (e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text). An audible alert may take the form of an audible pre-recorded message.
In one embodiment, the alert unit is further operative to instruct the secondary alert unit (either directly or via the flush detector unit) to deactivate the secondary alert (e.g. upon detecting a hand wash event).
In one embodiment, the secondary alert unit communicates wirelessly with the alert unit and/or flush detector unit.
In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an automated method of generating an alert to remind a user to wash their hands after using a toilet or urinal, the method comprising: at a flush detector unit: detecting when a toilet or urinal has been flushed; and transmitting (e.g. wired or wirelessly transmitting) a flush event signal to an alert unit (e.g. remote alert unit); and at the alert unit: receiving (e.g. wired or wirelessly receiving) the flush event signal from the flush detector unit; and in response to receiving the flush event signal, generating an alert to remind a user to wash their hands. In one embodiment, the step of detecting when a toilet or urinal has been flushed comprises identifying engagement of a flush mechanism or identifying a water flow event (e.g. a change in water level in a tank in the case of a tanked flush supply).
In one embodiment, the flush detector unit and alert unit communicate wirelessly (e.g. via Bluetooth or direct Wi-Fi).
In one embodiment, the alert generated by the alert unit may be an audible and/or visible alert. For example, the alert unit may include a display device operative to display a visual alert (e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text). An audible alert may take the form of an audible pre-recorded message reminding the user to wash their hands.
In one embodiment, the method further comprises: at the alert unit, detecting when a hand wash event has taken place.
In one embodiment, the method further comprises: at the alert unit, turning off the alert in response to determining that a hand wash event has taken place.
In one embodiment, the alert unit is associated with (e.g. mounted on or provided within) a handwash dispenser operative to dispense handwash (e.g. any hand washing product such as a liquid soap or hand sanitiser product).
In one embodiment, the handwash dispenser is provided adjacent a wash basin.
In one embodiment, the step of detecting when a hand wash event has taken place comprises detecting when a handwash dispense event has taken place (e.g. detecting when the handwash dispenser has been activated to dispense handwash). In one embodiment, the step of detecting when a handwash dispense event has taken place comprises monitoring one or more circuit components of the handwash dispenser (e.g. hand sensor component or pump activation component of a "touch-free" handwash dispenser).
In one embodiment, the method further comprises: (e.g. at the alert unit) using a data capture device to record how many times a flush event signal is received and how many times a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is detected.
In one embodiment, the method further comprises: at the alert unit, generating an alarm if a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is not detected within a predetermined period of time (e.g. predetermined period of time from receipt of the flush event signal from the flush detector unit).
In one embodiment, the alarm is an audible alarm (e.g. a "bleeper").
In one embodiment, the method comprises: at the alert unit, resetting the alarm when a hand wash event (e.g. handwash dispense event) is detected by the alert unit or after a further period of time (e.g. a period indicative that no hand wash event is likely to take place).
In one embodiment, the method further comprises optionally disabling the alarm.
In one embodiment, the alarm is only enabled if data monitored by the data capture device indicates that hand washing compliance falls below an expected rate.
In one embodiment, the method further comprises providing a secondary alert unit located in proximity to the toilet or urinal, and instructing the secondary alert unit (e.g. by sending a signal from the flush detector unit or alert unit after the flush detector unit has identified a flush event) to generate a secondary alert (e.g. audible or visual secondary alert) to remind a user to wash their hands.
For example, the secondary alert unit may include a display device operative to display a visual alert (e.g. "Wash your hands" pictogram or text). An audible alert may take the form of an audible pre-recorded message.
In one embodiment, the method further comprises: at the alert unit, instructing the secondary alert unit (either directly or via the flush detector unit) to deactivate the secondary alert (e.g. upon detecting a hand wash event).
In one embodiment, the secondary alert unit communicates wirelessly with the alert unit and/or flush detector unit.
An embodiment of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of an integrated hand washing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention comprising a toilet-mounted flush detector unit and a handwash dispenser;
Figure 2 is a schematic view of the flush detector unit;
Figure 3 A is a schematic external view of the handwash dispenser;
Figure 3B is a schematic internal view of the handwash dispenser; and
Figure 4 is flow diagram illustrating operation of the integrated hand washing system of the present invention.
Figure 1 shows a smart integrated toilet flushing and hand sanitising system 10 comprising: a flush detector unit 20 mounted inside a cistern 32 of a toilet 30; an alert unit 40 mounted adjacent toilet 30; and a "touch-free" handwash dispenser 50 provided adjacent a wash basin 60 with water tap 62, handwash dispenser 50 including a handwash dispenser unit 70 and a handwash dispenser alert unit 80.
As shown in Figure 2, flush detector unit 20 comprises a microcontroller 22, a flush event sensor 24 and a wireless transmitter 26. Flush event sensor 24 may take a variety of forms depending upon the type of flush mechanism used in toilet 30. For toilets with a cistern, flush event sensor 24 may sense the water level in the cistern (either directly or by sensing the position of a float valve arm of the flush mechanism).
As illustrated in Figures 3A and 3B, handwash dispenser 50 comprises a casing 52 with a outlet nozzle 54, casing 52 housing handwash dispenser unit 70, handwash dispenser alert unit 80 and handwash reservoir (not shown). The handwash may be a liquid soap or sanitiser gel or any other suitable hand cleansing product.
Handwash dispenser unit 70 comprises a microcontroller 72, a light emitter/receiver hand detector circuitry 74 to detect if a hand is placed beneath the outlet nozzle 54, and a pump 76 operative to dispense handwash (e.g. liquid soap or hand sanitiser gel) from handwash reservoir via outlet nozzle 54.
Handwash dispenser alert unit 80 comprises a microcontroller 82, a hand wash event detector 84, a wireless receiver/transmitter 86, a display driver 88, an LED display panel 90, a sounder 92 and a data capture device 94. Hand wash event detector may work in a variety of ways, but in one embodiment may link directly to hand detector circuitry 74.
Typically wireless communication between flush detector unit 20, handwash dispenser alert unit 80 and toilet-mounted alert unit 40 is achieved via Bluetooth or direct Wi-Fi.
Upon receipt of a flush event signal from flush detector unit 20, microcontroller 82 of handwash dispenser alert unit 80 triggers display driver 88 to generate an alert in the form of a "Wash your hands" pictogram or text on LED display panel 90 and starts a timer. At the same time, toilet-mounted alert unit 40 is operative to receive a signal from flush detector unit 20 or handwash dispenser alert unit 80 and that triggers a secondary alert by displaying a (e.g. corresponding) "Wash your hands" pictogram or text on an LED screen 42 provided on toilet- mounted alert unit 40. Optionally an audible alert may be provided from handwash dispenser alert unit 80 (e.g. a pre-recorded message reminding the user to wash their hands).
If hand wash event detector 84 detects a hand wash event within a predetermined threshold time TA the visual alert is cancelled and the timer is reset. However, if the hand wash event detector 84 does not detect a hand wash event before the timer reaches the predetermined threshold time TA (in one example, TA may be in the range of 5-8 seconds), the visual alert is maintained and microcontroller 82 additionally triggers an audible alarm using sounder 92. In the case of a system installed in a workplace, if an employee leaves the washroom without hand washing the audible alarm may be configured to be clearly heard outside of the washroom. The audible alarm is switched off if a hand wash event is detected within a further period of time. If no hand wash event is detected within the further period of time then it is assumed that no hand wash event will occur and the audible alarm is switched off. At the same time as cancelling the main alert, handwash dispenser alert unit is operative to instruct toilet-mounted alert unit 40 (either directly or via flush detector unit 20) to deactivate the secondary alert.
Data capture device 94 is operative to capture the amount of times a flush event signal is received by handwash dispenser alert unit 80 and how many times a hand washing event is detected. This should match and if not the managers can take action.
The audible alarm feature may be optionally be e.g. via an on/off switch or software setting). Data capture device 94 may be used to monitor hand washing rates and if compliance falls below expectation the alarm feature could be enabled by a system operator. In this way the optional audible alarm feature may be used to influence behaviour.
As illustrated in Figure 4, the method implemented in system 10 comprises: sensing a flush event (step 100); transmitting a flush event signal to handwash dispenser alert unit 80 provided in handwash dispenser 50 (step 110); at handwash dispenser alert unit 80, activating visual alert at toilet-mounted alert unit 40 and handwash dispenser 50 (steps 120, 130), and starting a timer (step 140).
If hand dispenser alert unit 80 senses a handwash dispense event within a time TA (step 150) the alert is reset (step 170). However, if no handwash dispense event is sensed by time TA then handwash dispenser alert unit 80 activates an audible alarm 160) which is subsequently cancelled upon sensing a handwash dispense event.
Handwash dispenser alert unit 80 may further be configured to perform the following functions: a) alerts a janitorial and/or Facilities Management ("FM") department that there is a system malfunction; b) alerts a janitorial and/or FM that the dispenser needs refilling; and c) identifies that a genuine handwash refills has been installed (e.g. by detecting a suitable security device on a handwash refill bottle when installed in handwash dispenser 50. The alerts a) and b) can be communicated by: a message on the LED display panel 90 or a message (e.g. text message) sent to the Janitorial/FM.

Claims

Claims:
1. An integrated hand washing system comprising:
a flush detector unit operative to detect when a toilet or urinal is flushed and transmit a flush event signal; and
an alert unit operative to receive the flush event signal from the flush detector unit and, in response to receiving the flush event signal, generate an alert to remind a user to wash their hands.
2. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 1, wherein the flush detector unit may be operative to identify engagement of the flush mechanism or identify a water flow event.
3. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the alert generated by the alert unit may be an audible and/or visible alert.
4. An integrated hand washing system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the alert unit further comprises a hand wash event detector operative to determine when a hand wash event has taken place.
5. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 4, wherein the alert unit is operative to turn off the alert in response to the hand wash event detector determining that a hand wash event has taken place.
6. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the alert unit is associated with a handwash dispenser operative to dispense handwash.
7. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 6, wherein the hand wash event detector is operative to detect a handwash dispense event.
8. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 7, wherein the alert unit is electrically connected to the handwash dispenser and the hand wash event detector monitors one or more circuit components of the handwash dispenser.
9. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 8, wherein the hand wash event detector monitors one or more of a hand sensor component or pump activation component of the handwash dispenser.
10. An integrated hand washing system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises a data capture device operative to record how many times a flush event signal is received and how many times a hand wash event is detected.
11. An integrated hand washing system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the alert unit is further operative to generate an alarm if a hand wash event is not detected within a predetermined period of time.
12. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 11, wherein the alarm is an audible alarm.
13. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the alarm is reset when a hand wash event is detected by the alert unit or after a further period of time.
14. An integrated hand washing system according to any of claims 11-13, wherein the alarm may be optionally disabled.
15. An integrated hand washing system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a secondary alert unit located in proximity to the toilet or urinal, the secondary alert unit being operative to generate a secondary alert to remind a user to wash their hands.
16. An integrated hand washing system according to claim 15, wherein the alert unit is further operative to instruct the secondary alert unit to deactivate the secondary alert upon detecting a hand wash event.
17. An automated method of generating an alert to remind a user to wash their hands after using a toilet or urinal, the method comprising:
at a flush detector unit: detecting when a toilet or urinal has been flushed; and
transmitting a flush event signal to an alert unit; and
at the alert unit:
receiving the flush event signal from the flush detector unit; and
5 in response to receiving the flush event signal, generating an alert to remind a user to wash their hands.
18. A method according to claim 17, wherein the step of detecting when a toilet or urinal has been flushed comprises identifying engagement of a flush mechanism or identifying a water
10 flow event.
19. A method according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the method further comprises: at the alert unit, detecting when a hand wash event has taken place.
15 20. A method according to claim 19, wherein the method further comprises:
at the alert unit, turning off the alert in response to determining that a hand wash event has taken place.
21. A method according to claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the alert unit is associated with a 0 handwash dispenser operative to dispense handwash and the step of detecting when a hand wash event has taken place comprises detecting when a handwash dispense event has taken place.
22. A method according to claim 21, wherein the step of detecting when a handwash dispense event has taken place comprises monitoring one or more circuit components of the 5 handwash dispenser.
23. A method according to claim 22, wherein the step of monitoring one or more circuit components of the handwash dispenser comprises monitoring a hand sensor component or pump activation component of the handwash dispenser.
30
24. A method according to any of claims 17-23, wherein the method further comprises: using a data capture device to record how many times a flush event signal is received and how many times a hand wash event is detected.
25. A method according to any of claims 17-24, wherein the method further comprises: at the alert unit, generating an alarm if a hand wash event is not detected within a predetermined period of time.
5
26. A method according to claim 25, wherein the method comprises:
at the alert unit, resetting the alarm when a hand wash event is detected by the alert unit or after a further period of time.
10 27. A method according to any of claims 17-26, wherein the method further comprises providing a secondary alert unit located in proximity to the toilet or urinal, and instructing the secondary alert unit to generate a secondary alert to remind a user to wash their hands.
28. A method according to claim 27, wherein the method further comprises:
15 at the alert unit, instructing the secondary alert unit to deactivate the secondary alert upon detecting a hand wash event.
PCT/GB2018/052043 2017-07-27 2018-07-19 Integrated hand washing system WO2019020977A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB1712102.1A GB201712102D0 (en) 2017-07-27 2017-07-27 Smart integrated toilet flushing and hand sanitising system
GB1712102.1 2017-07-27
GBGB1721602.9A GB201721602D0 (en) 2017-12-21 2017-12-21 Integrated hand washing system
GB1721602.9 2017-12-21

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2019020977A1 true WO2019020977A1 (en) 2019-01-31

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