Toilet Flusher having a Defined Substance Dispensing Amount

Abstract

Toilet flusher comprising a power source, control unit, sensor unit, and at least one first container that contains a first preparation and that may be connected to the toilet flusher, wherein the toilet flusher comprises at least one pump that cooperates with the power source, control unit, and sensor unit such that a defined dispensing amount of at least one substance preparation is dispensed independently of the arrangement of the toilet flusher in or on the toilet bowl and/or of the amount of flushing water acting on the toilet flusher.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/EP2008/054203 filed 8 Apr. 2008, which claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2007 040 322.6 filed 24 Aug. 2007, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention relates to a toilet freshener with electromechanically effected release of preparations in a defined amount in or on a toilet bowl.

Accurate dispensing of flowable or pourable compositions is relevant in a large number of fields of application.

Domestically, dispensing of flowable substances is increasing in importance, based primarily on exact, controlled dispensing of active substances so that the environment is protected by conservation of resources and prevention of incorrect or over-dispensing, while efficiency of active substances dispensed in this way is optimized.

Dispensing of cleaning and fragrancing compositions in the toilet area is currently performed primarily by “toilet fresheners”. These are single- or multi-chamber containers which are hung in the toilet bowl so that an active substance is released from the toilet freshener into the toilet bowl during the flushing process of flushing the toilet bowl with water.

Such devices are known, for example, from EP0828902 or DE10113036.

A significant disadvantage of these toilet fresheners is that dispensing depends substantially on local flow conditions in the toilet bowl during the flushing process. However, flow conditions can vary widely, depending on the type of toilet and positioning of the toilet freshener in or on the toilet bowl. For example, with certain toilet it is possible that no active substance is released from the toilet freshener due to no or insufficient water flowing over the toilet freshener during the flushing process, resulting in the dispensing mechanism of the toilet freshener not being initiated.

Also, if flush water flows over a toilet freshener as intended, this can be problematic as the water path intended by the toilet manufacturer is disturbed, affecting the flushing performance of a toilet.

It is therefore desirable to have a dispensing device for releasing active substances into a toilet bowl which dispenses those substances into the bowl independent of the toilet flushing process.

It is additionally desirable for active substance release to occur not only after actuation of flushing. For example, it would be advantageous to dispense fragrances or foaming agents into the toilet bowl immediately before the toilet is used in order to counteract the possible release of odors, often regarded as unpleasant, from human excreted metabolites during use of the toilet.

Further, the above-described dispensing devices can be large in size, which is aesthetically unpleasing and also can cause functional problems due to the reduction in usable space in the toilet bowl by the dispensing device.

In addition, the amount of active substance released can be influenced by the temperature of the flushing water so that a greater amount of active substance may be released in the warmer months than in the colder months of the year.

To ensure that toilet bowls are cleaned with toilet freshener in an environmental manner, defined, constant dispensing appropriate to requirements of the active ingredient compositions is increasing in importance.

It is therefore an object of the invention to avoid the disadvantages of the toilet freshener of the above-described type and to provide a toilet freshener which provides defined, constant release of active substances into and/or on a toilet bowl.

This is accomplished by a toilet freshener having a power source, control unit, sensor unit and at least a first container containing a preparation and is coupled to the toilet freshener. The toilet freshener also includes at least one pump which cooperates with the power source, control unit and sensor unit so that a predetermined amount of at least one active substance preparation is released into the toilet bowl irrespective of the arrangement of the toilet freshener in or on the toilet bowl and/or of the amount of flush water to which the toilet freshener is exposed.

The toilet freshener according to the invention consists of various components which may in turn be combined into assemblies. These components include at least one pump, a release element, a control unit, a sensor unit, a power source, a container, a fastening means and a preparation. In a preferred embodiment, the pump, control unit, sensor unit and power source are combined into a “dispenser” assembly. The components and assemblies are described below.

Dispenser

The dispenser can include the power source needed to operate the toilet freshener, its control unit, sensor unit and at least one pump. Preferably, the dispenser includes a housing for protecting the interior of the dispenser from water splashing, as may occur when the toilet freshener is used in a toilet bowl.

It is also preferred to have the dispenser arranged on the outer rim of the toilet bowl, further enabling protection from exposure to water splashes as well as convenient operation of the dispenser. In addition, by having a dispenser that does not project into the interior of the toilet, the useful cross-sectional area of the toilet bowl is not reduced.

Since, depending on their intended purpose, dispensable preparations can have a pH value from 2 to 12, any component of the toilet freshener which contacts these preparations should have appropriate acid and/or alkali resistance. In addition, suitable material selection should ensure that these components are as far as possible chemically inert (e.g., in relation to nonionic surfactants, enzymes and/or fragrances).

It is particularly advantageous for electrical components of the toilet freshener such as the power source, control unit and sensor unit to be encapsulated or housed separately or together so that the dispenser is substantially water-tight (i.e., the dispenser is thus functional even when completely surrounded by liquid). Examples of useful encapsulation materials include multicomponent epoxide and acrylate encapsulation compounds such as methacrylate esters, urethane meth- and cyanoacrylates or two-component materials comprising polyurethanes, silicones, epoxy resins.

A significant advantage of the invention is the separation of the toilet freshener into a dispenser and a container coupled with the dispenser, whereby the toilet freshener is flexible and adapted for the widest possible range of applications.

Pump

For the present application, a pump is a fluid power machine for moving or delivering in particular small quantities of fluid by converting mechanical drive power into flow power.

Fluids are understood to be liquids and gases, and mixtures thereof and with solids.

Pumps include positive-displacement pumps, oscillatory pumps, diaphragm pumps, piston pumps, rotary pumps, dynamic pumps, centrifugal pumps, electrohydrodynamic pumps, electroosmotic pumps, magnetohydrodynamic pumps, surface acoustic wave pumps, capillary pumps, electrowetting pumps, and thermocapillary pumps.

The pump is either connected directly to the power source or the control unit is interposed therebetween.

In a further embodiment of the invention the release of at least one preparation can occur merely by gravity, without use of a pump. Release of the preparation from the container into the surrounding environment can be controlled in this configuration, for example, by a valve that opens to release the preparation and closes to prevent release. The valve can be controlled directly by the power source or by the control unit connected therebetween.

The pump, sensor and control unit are advantageously configured so that a defined amount of active substance preparation is released into the toilet bowl irrespective of the arrangement of the toilet freshener in or on the toilet bowl and/or of the amount of flush water to which the toilet freshener is exposed.

The pump likewise makes it possible for at least two different, predetermined amounts of at least one active substance preparation to be released. A significant advantage of this embodiment of the invention is that active substances are dispensed into the toilet bowl in a manner appropriate to requirements, thereby achieving active substance use which is more effective and better conserves resources.

In a further development of the invention, the pump is configured so that it is able to release an active substance preparation with a viscosity of <5000 mPa·s.

Micropump

Delivery rate of a micropump typically amounts to from 50 nl to 100 ml per minute, preferably from 250 nl to 30 ml per minute, particularly preferably from 500 nl to 5 ml per minute.

Preferably the micropump has a structural volume of about 5 cm³ or less, particularly preferably of about 3 cm³ or less, particularly preferably of about 2 cm³ or less.

The specific delivery rate of a micropump (calculated from the ratio of the delivery rate to the structural volume of a micropump) is typically about 500 [l/min] or less. The specific delivery rate preferably lies from about 1 to 300, particularly preferably from about 1.5 to 200, particularly preferably from about 2 to 150, very particularly preferably from 2.5 to 100 l/min.

Diaphragm Pumps

Diaphragm pumps are particularly advantageous for dispensing cleaning and active substance preparations as well as fragrances.

Diaphragm pumps typically include an inlet valve and an outlet valve respectively leading into and out of a pump chamber, formed in part from a pump diaphragm, and an actuator.

When the inlet valve is closed, the actuator causes compression of the pump chamber by acting mechanically on the pump diaphragm, whereby the fluid located in the pump chamber is delivered out of the pump chamber via the open outlet valve.

Once the discharge process is complete, the outlet valve is closed and decompression of the pump chamber is effected by the actuator, whereby the fluid is then drawn into the pump chamber via the now open inlet valve.

By suitable configuration and/or control of the valves and of the actuator, delivery direction of the micropump can be influenced or reversed.

The diaphragm pump actuator can be electromotive, piezoceramic, bimetallic, memory metallic, pneumatic, peristaltic, electrostatic, electromagnetic or thermal drive units.

The valves can be active or passive valves. Passive valves include clack valves, diaphragm valves or no-moving-parts valves.

Depending on the field of application, pressure-side release of the preparation from the dispensing device can occur dropwise, as a jet or spray, by diffusion or by vaporization.

For preparations having a tendency to form deposits over extended storage, it may be advantageous to arrange the container housing the preparation on the pressure side of the pump. In this configuration, only a fluid containing no deposit-forming substances is delivered through the pump. In this case, it is particularly advantageous to use air as the fluid.

The fluid is pumped into the container under pressure. The container has a pressure equalizing valve which, when a defined pressure in the container is exceeded, allows the product to flow out of the container.

In this way it is in particular possible to use the dispenser for a varity of preparations, without jeopardizing the functionality of the pump due to possible deposits or reactions between two preparations.

Release Elements

Release elements are any kind of device suitable for releasing an active substance into the surrounding environment of the dispensing device.

Release elements can include nozzles, spray heads, droplet dispensers, foam spray heads, piezo elements, porous elements, wick systems, capillary systems, nebulizers, ultrasound nebulizers, ionization nebulizers etc.

Nozzles, spray heads, droplet dispensers, foam spray heads, piezo elements and the like are particularly suitable for releasing active substances into the toilet or onto the interior surfaces of the toilet bowl.

Nozzles, atomizers, spray heads, piezo elements, sintered plates, porous elements, wick systems and the like are particularly suitable for active substance preparation release into the air.

Release elements can have the same or different spray cone shapes when releasing the preparations. Accordingly, it is possible for one release element to produce a jet with a somewhat narrow or directed application area, while another release element produces a broad application field. Obviously, various combinations of the most varied spray cone shapes are conceivable.

In particular, the release element may be arranged in a movable manner on the toilet freshener that allows the user to orient the spray cone from the release element onto a desired application field. The release element can also permit adjustment of the spray cone shape.

The release element can also provide electrostatic charging of active substance droplets, thereby improving the wetting, adhesion and/or distribution of the active substance on a surface and/or in the air.

The release element can also be constructed as a fan configured either to improve air quality by drawing in malodors or optimize active substance distribution in or on the toilet bowl.

Release elements can further be configured so that one or more active substances are released in different directions from one another. The following table provides a non-exhaustive list of possible configurations regarding the direction of release.

Direction of release A    Direction of release B
Release of fragrance into Release of fragrance into
toilet bowl               surrounding environment
Release of cleaning agent Release of cleaning agent under
into toilet bowl          the toilet rim/during flushing
                          or outside the flushing process
Release of cleaning agent Release of fragrance into
into toilet bowl          surrounding environment

Further desired combination of the configurations shown in the above table are also possible.

It is advantageous to arrange the release element in movable manner on the clip of the toilet freshener. Doing so allows the user to orient the release element and spray cone of the preparation in order to wet a defined application field in or on the toilet with the preparation.

The release element(s) is/are advantageously configured such that, irrespective of the positioning of the toilet freshener on the toilet bowl, a predetermined amount of at least one active substance preparation is released in a directed and defined manner into the interior of a toilet bowl. Advantages of such a development include more specific exposure of surfaces of the toilet bowl to one or more active substances, as well as the ability to treat different surfaces with different active substances. For example, considering a German style flat-pan toilet, the pan portion can be wetted with an active substance for reducing adhesions, while an active substance for reducing lime deposits is applied onto the funnel-shaped walls extending from the pan to the rim of the toilet.

In a further, preferred embodiment of the invention the control unit generates a control signal for releasing active substance preparation when flushing is initiated, and a control signal for terminating active substance release once flush water has stopped flowing through the toilet bowl.

In a further development of the toilet freshener, the first amount released and at least the second amount released originate from identical or different active substance preparations.

According to a further embodiment which is to be preferred, the first amount released and at least the second amount released are released at different points in time.

In a further development of the invention, the release element and at least the first preparation are configured so that foam is formed when the preparation is released into the surrounding environment.

In a further, alternative development of the invention, the pump, the release element and at least the first preparation are configured such that foam is formed when the preparation is released into the surrounding environment.

Foaming provides a variety of advantages. For example, foam can effectively trap and minimize malodors due to its pore and cell structure. Also, foam can be applied onto the surface of the toilet bowl as an “anti-caking” coating in order to reduce adhesions of excreted metabolites to these surfaces.

It is therefore advantageous for the release element to take the form of a foam spray head and for the preparation to have a viscosity of less than 3000 mPa·s so that a maximally stable, effectively adhering and fine-pored foam is formed.

Control Unit

A control unit in the present application is a device suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and/or information. To this end, the control unit acts on transducers with information which it processes for achieving the control objective.

Transducers can include, for example, pumps and/or valves.

In a preferred development of the invention the toilet freshener does not make use of any mechanical control elements for product release, enabling the toilet freshener to be miniaturized so that it may also be used in applications in which the size of the toilet freshener is critical.

The control unit can include a programmable microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dispensing programs are stored in the microprocessor for selection and execution depending on the container coupled to the toilet freshener. It is also possible for the dispensing programs to be manually invoked by the user.

The control unit is preferably also arranged on the outwardly facing side of the toilet bowl, allowing it to be operated by the user, in particular, when the user is sitting on the toilet.

In a particularly preferred development of the invention, the control unit has a dispensing program for introducing at least two different active substance preparations into a toilet bowl or into the surrounding environment of the toilet bowl, wherein in at least two successive points in time t₁ and t₂ at least two different active substance preparations are released, with at least one active substance preparation introduced into the interior of a toilet bowl.

Such a dispensing program allows optimized cleaning performance due to control of possible chemical reactions based on appropriately time-offset release of the corresponding preparation or preparations, some examples of which are listed in the following table.

t1	t2	Advantage
Cleaning product	Fragrance in	Optimized fragrance development, since fragrance is
in toilet bowl	toilet bowl after	released into the toilet bowl after flushing and is
during flushing	flushing	consequently not flushed away with the flush water.
process		Fragrance is not “decomposed” by cleaning preparation.
Fragrance in	Cleaning product	Optimized fragrance development, since fragrance is
toilet bowl	in toilet bowl	released into the toilet bowl before flushing and is
immediately	during flushing	consequently not flushed away with the flush water.
before use	process	Fragrance is not “decomposed” by cleaning preparation.
Cleaning product	Cleaning product	Cleaning product A may prevent adhesions in the toilet
A in toilet bowl	B in toilet bowl	bowl by a protective film of cleaning product A being
immediately	during flushing	applied in the toilet bowl immediately before the toilet is
before use	process	used, which protective film is then flushed back off the
		toilet surface by cleaning product B during the flushing
		process.

Another advantage is that a controlled release of one or more different fragrances can be implemented, thereby at least reducing dependence on the sense of smell. This can be accomplished by cyclic and pulsed release of fragrance as described in the prior art. Furthermore, dependence on smell can also be reduced by releasing different fragrances in succession.

The toilet freshener can also dispense a defoamer into the toilet bowl before or during the flushing process. Excessive foaming before or during the flushing process often causes toilet paper to float on this foam so that it is not properly flushed away, but instead floats in the toilet bowl after completion of the flushing process. Consumers often consider this unappealing. By dispensing the defoamer before or during the flushing process, excessive foaming can be prevented, ensuring that the toilet paper is reliably flushed away. In addition or as an alternative to the defoamer, cellulose-dissolving substances may also be added.

The control unit can be constructed so that parameters in the dispensing programs are adjustable. For example, sensor threshold values can be set during preconfiguration of the toilet freshener or also by the user during use in order to initiate active substance release at a specific sensor threshold value. Setting one or more parameters can be achieved by an appropriately configured input device on the toilet freshener. Do so allows control of the toilet freshener to be further optimized and adapted to a specific instance of use.

Sensor Unit

The sensor unit can include one or more active and/or passive sensors for the qualitative and/or quantitative detection of mechanical, electrical, physical and/or chemical variables, which are then forwarded to the control unit as control signals.

In particular, sensors of the sensor unit include timers, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, strain sensors, rotational speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, instantaneous acoustic pressure sensors, “lab-on-a-chip” sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, moisture sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and/or MEMS sensors.

In a simple embodiment, the sensor unit can be in the form of a toggle, pressure or momentary-contact switch.

For preparations whose viscosity fluctuates greatly as a function of temperature, it is advantageous to provide flow sensors in the dispensing device for monitoring the volume or mass of the dispensed preparations. Suitable flow sensors include diaphragm flow sensors, magnetic-inductive flow meters, mass flow metering using the Coriolis method, eddy flow metering, ultrasound flow metering, rotameter metering, annular piston flow metering, thermal mass flow metering or differential pressure flow metering.

It is also possible to store a viscosity curve as a function of temperature for at least one preparation to be saved in the control unit, with dispensing being adjusted by the control unit in accordance with the temperature and thus the viscosity of the preparation.

In a further development of the invention, a device for direct determination of the viscosity of the preparation is provided.

The alternatives mentioned above for determining dispensing amount and/or viscosity of a preparation generate a control signal processed by the control unit for controlling a pump, thereby inducing substantially constant dispensing of a preparation.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensor is configured so that detection of a flushing process is achieved without any significant influence on flow conditions in the toilet bowl. For example, ultrasound sensors can be used for this purpose.

Furthermore, it is advantageous to have a dispensing process in which a predetermined amount of a preparation is released, for example, over a time of about 20 seconds or less, preferably about 10 seconds or less, particularly preferably about 5 seconds or less. By providing the shortest possible dispensing period in which a preparation is released into the surrounding environment, the dispenser can be available for the next dispensing period and also ensure effective release of preparation, even if a toilet is in continual use.

Power source

For the purposes of the present application, a power source refers to a component of the dispensing device capable of providing power suitable for autonomous operation of the dispensing device.

The power source preferably provides electrical power. The power source can be, for example, a battery, a mains power supply, solar cells or the like.

It is also possible to wirelessly transmit the electrical power required for operating the dispenser from an appropriate transmitter to a corresponding receiver in the dispenser.

It is particularly advantageous to make the power source replaceable (e.g., in the form of a replaceable battery).

However, it is also possible for the power source to be a mechanical power source such as a dynamo, which converts mechanical or fluidic energy into electrical power. This can then be stored in suitable storage elements such as a capacitor or storage battery.

Container

For the purposes of the present application, a container refers a packaging container suitable for enclosing or holding preparations, and which can be coupled to the dispenser for release of the preparation.

A particularly preferred arrangement is one in which two containers are provided, preferably separate from one another, each containing an active substance fluid. However, there can also be a plurality of storage containers for a plurality of active substance fluids. The storage containers can be separate from one another in order to prevent premature mixing of the active substance fluids. They can be physically separate containers or separate compartments in a single container body.

The volume ratio of the structural volume of the dispenser and the capacity of the container preferably amounts to <1, particularly preferably <0.1, particularly preferably <0.05. This ensures that, for a predetermined overall structural volume of dispenser and container, the dominant proportion of the structural volume is occupied by the container and the preparation contained therein.

The container can have a capacity of <5000 ml, in particular <1000 ml, preferably <500 ml, particularly preferably <250 ml, very particularly preferably <50 ml.

The invention is suitable for dimensionally stable containers such as pots, tins, capsules, cartridges, bottles, canisters, cans, cartons, drums or tubes, but can also be used for flexible containers such as pouches or bags, particularly if they are used according to the bag-in-bottle principle.

A container can include a plurality of chambers which can be filled with different compositions. It is also possible for a plurality of containers to be combined into a unit (e.g., into a cartridge).

The following table provides examples of possible combinations of containers or chambers with the corresponding preparations for some applications.

	Container A	Container B	Container C
	Cleaning agent	Fragrance
	Cleaning agent A	Cleaning agent B
	Cleaning agent A	Cleaning agent B	Fragrance

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the container has an RFID label containing at least information about the container's contents and which is readable by the sensor unit.

This information can be used to select a dispensing program stored in the control unit. By doing so, it can be ensured that the ideal dispensing program is always used for a specific preparation. It is also possible that, in the absence of an RFID label or when an RFID label has an incorrect or defective ID, the dispensing device does not dispense, but instead an optical or acoustic signal is produced notifying the user of the error.

In order to prevent misuse of the containers, the containers can also have structural elements that interact with corresponding elements of the dispenser like a key in a lock, such that only containers of a particular type are coupled to the dispenser. This embodiment makes it possible for information about the container coupled to the dispenser to be transferred to the control unit so that the dispensing device can be controlled in a manner consistent with the contents of the corresponding container.

In a further development of the invention, the container can be under pressure. This is useful when the preparation is sprayed or released without requiring a pump in between. Here, release of the preparation can be controlled or regulated, for example, by a control valve in active connection with the control unit. This embodiment has the additional advantage that no power need be provided by the power source for transporting the preparation, allowing the power source to be made smaller or have a longer anticipated life.

Fastener

The toilet freshener can also include fasteners for fixing the toilet freshener to the toilet bowl. Fasteners include suction cups, adhesive tape, clips or the like.

Alternatively, the toilet freshener can be fastened to the toilet cistern, the toilet seat or to the toilet lid. Fasteners known in the art can be used for this purpose.

Preparations

Preparations for the purpose of these applications are compositions containing at least one substance from the group of cleaning agents and/or fragrances.

According to a further, preferred development of the invention, preparations include substances for modifying surfaces, particularly ceramic surfaces.

Preparations suitable according to the invention include, for example, fragrance phases, particularly perfumed fragrance phases. Such fragrance phases typically contain at least one fragrance, preferably a perfume oil, at least one surfactant or emulsifier, and water, as well as further optional ingredients such as preservatives, thickeners, complexing agents, dyes, further surfactants, or emulsifiers, stabilizers, limescale removers etc.

Bleach phase preparations, in particular chlorine-containing bleach phases, preferably hypochlorite-based bleach phases, are likewise suitable as preparations according to the invention, wherein, in addition to the actual bleaching agent and water, the bleach phases can contain further ingredients such as thickeners, surfactants or emulsifiers, neutralizing agents, dyes, fragrances etc.

Further preparations suitable according to the invention include limescale removing active substance phases, preferably acidic limescale removing active substance phases. In addition to the actual limescale remover (preferably comprising an organic or inorganic acid) and water, such limescale removing active substance phases can optionally contain further ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives, etc.

It is also possible to use highly concentrated surfactant phases, or “foam boosters” as they are known, as preparations. In addition to the surfactants, such highly concentrated surfactant phases can also contain other conventional ingredients. Foam boosters are advantageous for pretreating the toilet bowl with a carpet of foam in order, for example, to prevent adhesion of excreted metabolites to the surface of the toilet or to reduce and/or trap malodors.

Preparations having an antibacterial and/or fungicidal and/or antiviral active substance phase are likewise suitable according to the invention, wherein in addition to the antibacterial and/or fungicidal and/or antiviral active substance and water, the active substance phase can also contain other ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives etc.

It is also possible for the preparations to have enzyme-containing active substance phases. In addition to enzyme(s) and water, such enzyme-containing active substance phases can optionally contain further ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives, etc.

It is likewise possible for the preparations used according to the invention to be absorbent, particularly odor-absorbing active substance phases. In addition to the absorbent, in particular, odor absorbent and water, these phases can also contain other ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives, etc.

According to one particular embodiment, the toilet freshener according to the invention allows the use of different combinations of different preparations in the storage containers, wherein one of the storage containers contains a fragrance phase as defined above.

Examples of useful preparation combinations include a perfumed fragrance phase combined with chlorine bleach (which are not stable when stored together), perfumed fragrance phase with highly concentrated surfactant phase (foam booster), fragrance phase with limescale removing, acidic active substance phase, fragrance phase with antibacterial active substance phase, various acid systems, fragrance phase combined with enzyme-containing active substance phase, perfumed acid phase combined with water-coloring phase, fragrance phase with odor-absorbing phase, perfumed acid phase with active oxygen, perfumed acid phase with active substance phase, polyacrylate-thickened, etc.

Of particular interest are high-viscosity to gel-like active substance fluids having viscosities of a few thousand mPa·s, in particular from about 200 to about 5000 mPa·s, preferably about 500 to about 3500 mPa·s (measured with RotoVisko LVTV II, spindle 31, 5 rpm, 20° C.).

In a further, preferred embodiment of the invention, the preparations have a viscosity of about 2000 mPa·s or less, in particular about 1000 mPa·s or less (measured with RotoVisko LVTV II, spindle 31, 5 rpm, 20° C.). These low-viscosity to watery preparations are particularly suitable if the preparation is sprayed into or onto the toilet bowl.

Using low-viscosity active substance preparations in toilet fresheners according to the invention allows for substantially faster and more accurate dispensing, as well as dispensing with the use of thickening systems. Furthermore, active substance systems which can only be prepared in low viscosities can be used, for example, based on chlorine, HCl, etc.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the preparation can be pressurized. This is advantageous when the preparation is sprayed or released without requiring a pump in between. Here, release of the preparation can be controlled or regulated by a control valve actively connected to the control unit. This embodiment is further advantageous in that no power is required from the power source for transporting the preparation, allowing the power source to be made smaller or have a longer anticipated life.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a preparation container on the suction side of the pump.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a preparation container on the pressure side of the pump.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a passive valve-controlled two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump.

FIG. 4A is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with an active valve-controlled two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with two pump-connected preparation containers.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating one method of controlling a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a pump.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating one method of controlling a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a pump and multi-chamber preparation container.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating one method of controlling a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a plurality of pumps and multi-chamber preparation container.

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with an RFID label on a preparation container.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a removable refill container.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a refill container fixed to a dispenser.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a battery built into the refill container.

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a two-chamber refill container and two pumps.

FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a two-chamber refill container, pump, and control valve.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with an extendible clip.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a removable container and wick system.

FIG. 17 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a release element arranged at the end of the clip.

FIG. 18 is a top view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a release element arranged at the end of the clip, with the freshener attached to a toilet bowl.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with individually replaceable containers.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a release element according to the present invention with integrated sensor unit and two release nozzles.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a release element according to the present invention with integrated sensor unit, two release nozzles and two spray cones.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with release element and two spray cones, looking down onto a toilet bowl.

FIG. 23 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with release element arranged under the toilet rim and two differently oriented spray cones.

FIG. 24 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with the release element arranged under the toilet rim and a spray cone directed under the rim of the toilet.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with two individually replaceable containers and a viewing flap in closed and open positions.

FIG. 1 shows a toilet freshener 1 according to the invention consisting of a dispenser 2 and container 9 connected to the dispenser 2 and containing a preparation 10.

The dispenser 2 includes a power source 3, control unit 4, sensor unit 5 and pump 6, wherein all components are preferably incorporated in a housing. The pump 6 is connected to the power source 3 via the control unit 4. The control unit 4 is in turn connected with the sensor unit 5, which directs the control signals for controlling the pump 6 to the control unit 4.

The pump 6 has a pressure line 7 and a suction line 8, with the suction line 8 connected to the container 9 containing the preparation 10. The pump 6 delivers the flowable preparation 10 via the suction line 8 from the container 9 into the pressure line 7, from which the preparation 10 is released into the surrounding environment of the toilet freshener 1. The pressure line 7 can be configured so that it counteracts gelation of the released preparation (e.g., by selection of a suitable diameter).

The container 9 can have a pressure equalizing valve 11 for equalizing the pressure between the surrounding environment and the interior of the container 9 when the pump 6 is pumping preparation 10 out of the container 9.

The pump 6 can be actuated by the control unit 4 so that the delivery direction of the pump 6 is reversed, and preparation still present in the pump 6 and lines 7 and 8 is delivered back into the container 9. This back-flushing can be advantageous when the preparation 10 thickens, clogging the lines 7 or 8.

FIG. 2 shows a further embodiment of the dispensing device of FIG. 1 wherein the container 9 is connected to the pressure side of the pump 6. Here, the pump 6 builds up pressure in the container 9 by pumping ambient air into the container 9, thereby expelling the preparation from the container 9. A valve 11 can be provided on the preparation outlet side of the container 9, permitting release of the preparation 10 from the container 9 once a defined pressure is achieved in the container 9. This can be useful when dispensing is by a defined spray jet or spray mist, and not dropwise.

In addition, a non-return valve 11a can be provided in the pressure line 7 between the pump 6 and the container 9, preventing pressure built up in the container 9 from escaping through the pressure line 7 when the pump 6 is at a standstill.

FIG. 3 shows the dispenser 2 of FIG. 1 wherein a two-chamber container formed from the containers 9 and 13 is connected to the suction line 8 of the pump 6. The containers 9 and 13 can each contain different compositions 10 and 14.

The containers 9 and 13 can each have pressure equalizing valves 11, 12.

The outlet openings at the bottom of the containers 9 and 13 are connected to the suction line 8 and pump 6 so that the preparations 10 and 14 are pumped through the suction line 8 in a defined ratio to one another. It may be necessary to adjust the flow conditions in the pressure lines 8 leading to the outlet openings at the bottom of the containers 9 and 13.

When more than two different preparations 10 and 14 are used, it is advantageous to control dispensing so that two mutually compatible preparations are delivered in succession through the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6.

Incompatibility of two preparations can result in, for example, an exothermic reaction, thickening, flocculation, pH value modification, color change or the like.

A third container can be provided that contains a flushing fluid for cleaning at least one of the preparations 10, 14 from the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6. Air can also be used for flushing the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6. By flushing the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6, it is possible to prevent residues of mutually incompatible preparations from coming into contact.

FIG. 4 illustrates a further development of the toilet freshener 1 of FIG. 3. The pressure lines 8 leading to the outlet openings at the bottom of the containers 9 and 13 each have a passive valve 15 and 16, allowing defined setting of the dispensing ratios of the preparations 10 and 14 from the containers 9 and 13.

The valves 15 and 16 can also be designed as temperature-sensitive bimetallic valves that open or close when a defined temperature is reached. In particular, the valves 15 and 16 can be different bimetallic valves so that, for example, only one preparation is delivered by the pump 6 from one of containers 9 or 13 once a defined temperature has been reached.

A common feature of the dispensers according to FIGS. 1-4 is that the control unit 4 controls the pump 6 by processing the signals from the sensor unit 5.

A basic control algorithm 20 is shown in FIG. 6 as a flow diagram.

The control algorithm 20 is activated as soon as the dispenser 2 is switched on. In a first process step 22, the control unit 4 receives the signals from the sensor unit 5. In the control unit 4, the received sensor signal is compared with a threshold value stored in the control unit 4.

In the following process step 24, a selection condition is used to check whether the sensor signal and the threshold value are in a defined relationship to one another. If the condition is met, the pump 6 is then activated by process step 25. If the condition is not met, sensor signals continue to be received and evaluated by the control unit according to process step 22.

As can be seen from process steps 25-29, the pump 6 remains in an activated state until a sensor signal arises which, on comparison with a threshold value stored in the control unit 4, causes the micropump to be switched off. According to this procedure, preparation is pumped out of the containers for as long as the sensor signal varies between two predefined threshold values, respectively, for switching the pump 6 on and off.

Alternatively, it is also possible to modify the above described controller so that a simple trigger circuit is created wherein switching on the micropump according to process step 25 causes a release of a predetermined amount of preparation, and then automatically switches off the micropump without requiring a further, sensor signal-based switching off condition for the pump 6.

As shown in FIG. 4A, it is also possible to configure the valves 15 and 16 as components actively controlled by the control unit 4. In this manner, the mixing ratio of the two preparations 10 and 14 can be actively influenced in a time-variable manner.

The control scheme underlying this embodiment is shown in FIG. 7 by flow diagram 30.

FIG. 5 shows a further possibility for actively influencing the mixing ratios in time-variable manner. In this embodiment of the invention, each of the containers 9 and 13 is coupled with a pump 6 and 19 to be individually controlled by the control unit 4. The corresponding control algorithm is shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 shows the dispensing device of FIG. 1 wherein an RFID label 42 suitable for identifying the size and the contents 10 of the container 9 is arranged on the container 9.

The sensor unit 5 includes an RFID receive unit capable of reading information from the RFID label 42 arranged on the container 9. This information is relayed as a control signal to the control unit 4 to initiate dispensing of the preparation 10 based on the contents of the container 9. In particular, control signals triggered by the RFID label 42 can be used to select a dispensing program stored in the control unit.

In this way, a multipurpose dispenser for a plurality of dispensing applications is provided, such as for the dispensing of preparations in dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, toilets or living spaces.

As an alternative to the RFID label 42, a person skilled in the art can also provide other means to bring about automatic identification of the container 9 and its contents 10 by the dispenser.

Furthermore, an additional release device 43 can be provided at the pressure-side opening of the pressure line 7. This release device 43 provides distribution of the preparation into the surrounding environment of the dispensing device 1 in a manner different from dropwise release. This can, for example, include jet- or spray mist-like release of the preparation, or release based on vaporization or diffusion. The release device 43 can be in the form of a nozzle, atomizer, distributor plate or porous surface. In particular, the release device can be configured to counteract gelation of the released preparations.

FIG. 10 shows the toilet freshener of FIG. 1 with a container 9 detachable from the dispenser 2. The container 9 has at its lower, bottom end a connection port 47 which can be introduced into the receptacle 48 provided on the dispenser 1. The connection port 47 can be closed by closure means so that initially, in the unused state of the container 9, leakage of preparation 10 from the container 9 is prevented; however, by inserting the container 9 into the dispenser 2 or the connection port 47 into the receptacle 48, the closure means is destroyed, allowing release of the preparation 10 from the container 9 by the dispenser 2 into the surrounding environment. FIG. 11 shows the toilet freshener in its assembled state.

The control unit 4 can also be coupled with an acoustic transducer 46 which converts a voltage or current of the control unit into an audible acoustic signal. The control unit 4 may include memory for a plurality of acoustic signals and/or music and/or speech recordings, which can be retrieved and executed manually or on the basis of a sensor trigger signal (i.e., forwarded to the acoustic transducer 46).

A light 44 can be connected to the control unit 2, wherein the light 44 is turned on or off in accordance with a predefined operating state of the dispensing unit 2. The light can take the form of, for example, an LED or LCD display.

The dispenser 2 can be switched on or off with the actuating element 45. It is also possible for different programs stored in the control unit 4 to be retrieved and executed by the actuating element 45.

FIG. 12 shows a further development of the toilet freshener according to the invention wherein the power source 3 in the form of a battery is incorporated in the container 9. The battery 3 is electrically conductively connected to the dispenser 2 via an appropriately configured coupling. The capacity of the battery 3 is designed to supply the dispenser 2 with power over the period of use until the preparation 10 has been completely emptied from the container 9.

FIG. 13 shows the structure of the toilet freshener illustrated in FIG. 5 in a more detailed schematic diagram. The chamber 9 is subdivided into two chambers by the wall 49 in which a first preparation 10 and a second preparation 14 are stored. Each chamber communicates with the surrounding environment via a pressure equalizing valve 11 or 12, and each has at its bottom end a connection port 47a or 47b.

FIGS. 15-17 show a further embodiment of the toilet freshener according to the invention. The toilet freshener includes the dispenser 2 and the container 9, which is detachably fixed to the dispenser 2. The dispenser has a raised rear wall from which extends perpendicularly the fastening means 52 in the form of a clip. The clip 52 is positioned between the rim of the toilet and the toilet seat, where it is fixed to the toilet bowl by the toilet seat resting on it. As is seen from FIG. 17, a suction cup can also be provided on the dispenser for additionally securing the toilet freshener to the toilet by vacuum.

A pressure or strain sensor is arranged as a sensor unit 5 on the upwardly directed top side of the fastening means 52. When pressure is exerted on this sensor unit 5 (e.g., by someone sitting on a toilet seat), the sensor unit 5 generates a corresponding signal that is relayed to the control unit 4 of the dispenser 2.

The container 9 can be separable from the dispenser, as seen in FIG. 16. The container 9 includes a wick system 50 in its interior, by which the preparation is released by the release element 43a from the container 9 into the surrounding environment by evaporation. The connection port 47 and receptacle 48 in the dispenser 2 form a liquid-tight connection when container 9 and dispenser 2 are in the assembled state.

A release element 43 in the form of a nozzle head is provided on the clip 52. The nozzle head 43 is arranged in a movable manner on the clip 52, allowing it to be oriented by the user. A telescopic element 53 is arranged between the nozzle head 43 and clip 52, allowing the length of the clip 52 and thus the point of application of the nozzle head 43 to be set. The nozzle head 43 produces a spray cone 54 from the preparation, which, as seen in FIG. 18, wets a defined application field within the toilet bowl 55.

A further, alternative development of the toilet freshener according to the invention is shown in FIG. 19. In this embodiment, the containers 9 and 13 are firmly connected with the dispenser 2 and can be refilled via an opening (not shown in FIG. 19).

FIG. 20 shows a release element 43 arranged at the distal end of the clip 52 with an integrated sensor 5 and two nozzles 56 and 57. In this embodiment, the sensor 5 is in the form of an infrared sensor or ultrasound sensor.

The nozzles 56 and 57 can be configured to produce identical or different spray cones 54a, 54b, as illustrated in FIG. 21. As shown in FIG. 22, the spray cones 54a and 54b can be directed onto the same application field in the interior of a toilet bowl 55. However, it is also apparent from FIGS. 23 and 24 that it is possible to direct the two spray cones in different directions.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the release element 43 is fixed by a hook on the inside on the lower rim of the toilet bowl 55. The release element 43 is therefore displaceably arranged on the clip 52, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 23. In addition, the toilet freshener 1 is fixed by the fastening means 50, here in the form of a suction cup, to the external rim of the toilet bowl 55.

The release element 43 has a first nozzle 56 and a second nozzle 57 spaced apart and arranged in the release element 43 so that their respective spray cones 54a and 54b point in different, non-overlapping directions. Spray cone 54a from the first nozzle 56 is accordingly directed into the interior of the toilet bowl 55, while spray cone 54b from the second nozzle 57 is directed onto the rim of the toilet bowl. It is also possible, as shown in FIG. 24, for a spray cone 54b to be directed under the rim of the toilet bowl 55. The spray cones 54a and 54b can be from identical or different compositions.

A sensor unit 5 in the form of a capacitive sensor projects from the release element under the rim of the toilet 55, such that the sensor 5 is exposed to water when flushing is actuated. The sensor 5 is shaped so that it has no significant influence on the path of the flushing water in the toilet bowl 55.

FIG. 25 shows a further development of the containers 9 and 13 and of the dispenser 2. The receptacle for the containers 9 and 13 in the dispenser is closable by a flap 58 arranged swivelably on the dispenser 2. With the flap 58 in the open state, the two containers 9 and 13 may be separately removed from or inserted into the receptacle of the dispenser 2.

FIG. 25 shows in a further embodiment of a toilet freshener 1 having two individually replaceable containers 9 and 13 and a viewing flap 58 in closed and in open position. The viewing flap 58 is hinged to the rear wall of the toilet freshener and shaped so that the viewing flap 58 preferably completely covers the containers 9 and 13 inserted in the toilet freshener 1. The viewing flap 58 can be equipped with closures which permit child-proof closure of the viewing flap 58 with the toilet freshener, thereby preventing unintended access to the containers 9 and 13.

The lights 44 and actuating element 45 are arranged on the front of the toilet freshener so that they are not covered when the inspection or viewing flap 58 is closed, but are instead freely accessible.

Claims

1. A toilet freshener for introducing at least one active substance preparation into a toilet bowl, comprising:

a power source,

a control unit,

a sensor unit,

at least one first container containing a first preparation, wherein the at least one first container can be coupled to the toilet freshener, and

at least one pump or release element, wherein the at least one pump or release element cooperates with the power source, control unit and sensor unit to release a predetermined amount of at least one active substance preparation into the toilet bowl regardless of the arrangement of the toilet freshener in or on the toilet bowl and/or of the amount of flush water to which the toilet freshener is exposed.

2. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the container can be coupled to a pressure side of the pump.

3. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the container can be coupled to a suction side of the pump.

4. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, further comprising a valve arranged between the at least one first container and the at least one first pump.

5. Toilet freshener according to claim 4, wherein the valve can be actively controlled by the control unit by providing a first control signal that effects opening of the valve, and a second control signal that effects closure of the valve.

6. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, further comprising at least one second container containing a second composition, wherein the at least one second container can be coupled to the dispenser.

7. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein release of the preparation is brought about by the at least one first pump, wherein the at least one first pump is coupled to the at least one first container, and a second pump, wherein the second pump is coupled to a second container.

8. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first container further comprises an RFID label, wherein the RFID label at least contains information about the contents of the container, and which is readable by the sensor unit.

9. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, further comprising a housing for protecting the dispenser against water splashing.

10. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, further comprising an encapsulation for the power source, control unit, sensor unit and pump thereby making the dispenser watertight.

11. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the dispenser is arranged on an outer rim of the toilet bowl.

12. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is a programmable microcontroller.

13. Toilet freshener according to claim 12, further comprising a plurality of dispensing programs stored in the microcontroller, wherein the programs are selectable and executable based on the container coupled to the dispenser.

14. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit detects initiation of a flush water stream without affecting flush water flow, wherein the sensor unit generates a sensor signal which is relayed to the control unit, wherein the control unit converts the sensor signal into a control signal for release of at least one preparation, and the power source, control unit and at least the first container interact so that, in the presence of the control signal representing initiation of the flush water stream, at least the first preparation is released from the first container into the surrounding environment by the pump and/or release element.

15. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the control unit generates a control signal for releasing active substance preparation when flushing is initiated and generates a control signal for terminating active substance release once flush water has stopped flowing through the toilet bowl.

16. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the pump and/or the release element and at least the first preparation are configured to form a foam on release of the preparation into the surrounding environment.

17. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the release element is arranged in movable manner on the toilet freshener in such a manner that the user can orient the spray cone producible by the release element onto a desired application field.