Patent Application
20070289993
1. Field of the Inventions
The present invention relates dispensers products and, more particularly, to soap dispensers.
2. Description of the Related Art
Soap is used to destroy harmful microorganisms that may be found on a person's hands and other exposed skin portions. A person's skin may harbor many types of unwanted microorganisms, such as bacteria. These microorganisms contribute to both the initiation and progression of infections and other disease. Further, various lotions and other liquids provide therapeutic and other beneficial effects on the human skin. Moreover, other activities carried out in the bathroom, near a liquid dispenser unit, offer various hygienic benefits to the user. Typically, in order to maximize its effectiveness, a hand washing procedure or other activity carried out near a liquid dispenser unit must be performed for a minimum time period. In addition, some people often forget or are discouraged from performing such activities in the first place.
In one embodiment, a liquid dispenser unit comprises a container for holding a dispensable liquid, a pump assembly hydraulically connected to the interior of the container and configured to dispense liquid to a location outside the liquid dispenser unit and a timing mechanism coupled to the container and/or the pump assembly. In some embodiments, the timing mechanism includes a timer, which is configured to determine a period of time, and a sensory device, which is configured to indicate when such a time period has elapsed. In one embodiment, the timing mechanism is attached to the top of the pump assembly. In another embodiment, the timing mechanism is attached to the container. In yet another embodiment, the timing mechanism is situated inside the container.
In some embodiments of the invention, the sensory device comprises one or more lights, vibrators, movements and/or auditory devices. In another embodiment, the pump assembly of the liquid dispenser unit comprises a leak-proof cap for securely containing the liquid within the container. In one embodiment, the dispensable liquid is liquid soap.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the liquid dispenser unit further comprises means for activating the timing mechanism. In one embodiment, the liquid dispenser unit further comprises means for activating the timing mechanism as the pump assembly is actuated to dispense the liquid from the container. In some embodiments, the period of time during which the sensory device is activated coincides with a minimum recommended hand washing period. In yet another embodiment, such a period of time is approximately 30 seconds.
In the embodiment of
As used herein, the term “container” is a broad term and is used in accordance with its ordinary meaning and may include, without limitation a bottle (typically of glass and/or plastic having a comparatively narrow neck or mouth), a bottle-shaped container for storing fluid (preferably a liquid such as liquid soap, though other liquids can be used including, without limitation, lotions, anti-microbial liquids, and water), etc. The terms “container” and “bottle” may be used interchangeably herein.
The pump assembly 14 can comprise a suction nozzle 20, an internal pump mechanism (not shown) and a discharge nozzle assembly 18. The discharge nozzle assembly 18 is preferably configured to also serve as a hand pump actuation device. In a preferred embodiment, a user is able to displace a small amount of liquid from the suction nozzle 20 and/or other hydraulically connected portions of the pump assembly 14 to the discharge nozzle 22 by pressing down on the discharge nozzle assembly 18. In such an embodiment, the discharge nozzle assembly 18 performs like a piston, as it is capable of being pressed down within the pump assembly. A spring (not shown) in the internal pump mechanism forces the discharge nozzle assembly 18 upwards to its original position. As the discharge nozzle assembly 18 ascends, liquid from the container 12 is drawn into the suction nozzle 20. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other mechanisms, including other pump mechanism, can be used in modified embodiments to remove the liquid from the interior of the container 12.
The liquid dispenser unit 10 preferably includes one or more timing mechanisms. In
As shown schematically in
The power supply 64 provides power to one or more components of the timing mechanism 30. Preferably, the timing mechanism 30 is configured so that the power supply 64 provides power to both the one or more sensory devices 60 and the timing devices 62. The power supply 64 may include one or more batteries or another energy source device (e.g., small solar panel) to energize the different components of the timing mechanism 30. Of course, those of skill in the art will appreciate that not all embodiments of the timing mechanism 30 require a power supply 64 (e.g., certain mechanical timing devices).
The timing device 62 of the timing mechanism 30 may comprise a clock, a timer (e.g., mechanical timer, electric timer, etc.), and/or any other timing device. In some embodiments, initiation of timing cycle results in the activation of one or more sensory devices. With continued reference to
In other embodiments, activating a timing cycle may have no effect until the predetermined time period has elapsed. Under such a configuration, activation of the timing mechanism 30 may prompt the lights 32A to illuminate and/or flash only after the predetermined timing period has expired. Regardless of how the timing mechanism 30 is configured to operate, activation or deactivation of the sensory device (e.g., light) indicates to the user that he or she has performed a particular task (e.g., washing of hands, rinsing with mouthwash, brushing of teeth, etc.) for a recommended period of time. Preferably, the timing device resets after completion of a timing cycle.
Once the sensory device is activated, the timing mechanism 30 starts measuring time. After a predetermined length of time has elapsed, the timing mechanism 30 deactivates (or activates) the sensory device, alerting the user that the requisite time period has expired. In some embodiments, the length of time measured by the timer is fixed and generally corresponds to a desirable duration for performing a particular activity. For example, the duration of the timing cycle may correspond to a recommended minimum time period for washing hands. Further, the sensory features of the timing mechanism 30 may be used to persuade a user to actually perform an activity in the first place. This is particularly well-suited for enticing or encouraging young children to wash their hands. In such embodiments, the sensory and the other decorative features of the liquid dispenser unit 10 become increasingly important.
The timing mechanism 30 may even be used to time activities completely unrelated to the dispensing of liquid from the dispending unit 10. For example, the timing feature provided by the dispensing unit 10 may be used for a variety of activities typically performed in a bathroom (e.g., brushing teeth, rinsing with mouthwash, flossing, etc.) Thus, a user may choose to activate the timing mechanism 30 of the dispensing unit 10 without actually dispensing liquid from it. In such embodiments, the dispensing unit 10 is simply used as a timer.
In some embodiments, a desired minimum time period for a hand washing or other task may be 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 20 seconds, 25 seconds, 30 seconds, 35 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds and ranges encompassing such lengths of time. In one embodiment, the desired time period is about 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the time measured by the timer is adjusted to compensate for the time it takes to perform some related ancillary activity (e.g., turning on the facet, creating proper lather, etc.). For example, the timer can run for approximately 40 seconds, which includes 30 seconds for washing of hands and 10 seconds to turn on the water facet, adjust the water temperature and create the necessary lather. Additionally, the timing device of the timing mechanism 30 may include a controller that permits a user to optionally adjust the time associated with a particular activation period.
The timing device is preferably electronically driven. Alternatively, the timing mechanism may comprise a mechanically or otherwise driven timing device. For example, the timing device may comprise a windup clock, motion powered timing device or other suitable mechanical device. In
The timing mechanism 30 can be attached to any suitable part of the dispenser unit 10. In
Preferably, the timing mechanism 30 is positioned so that the sensory device is easily visible to a user. The timing mechanism 30 can be positioned at other suitable locations on the dispenser unit 10. For example, the timing mechanism 30 may be positioned on the sidewall of the container 12, on the cap 16 or any other portion of the dispenser unit 10. Alternatively, the timing mechanism 30 may be positioned inside the container 12. For example, the timing mechanism 30 may be adhered to the interior surface of the container 12, to the bottom surface of the container 12, on the suction nozzle 20 or any other interior portion of the dispenser unit 10.
In
Further, various decorative features may be incorporated into a timing mechanism design to further enhance the overall aesthetic value of the liquid dispenser unit 10. For instance, the starfish embodiment may be made of a bright color (e.g., red) and may include one or more surface texture features (e.g., eyes, mouth, bumps, etc.). Preferably, the timing mechanism 30 is constructed of one or more durable materials capable of withstanding normal human contact and any elements to which it may be exposed (e.g., heat, water, liquid, steam, etc.). Thus, the starfish shaped timing mechanism 30 may be constructed of a waterproof soft rubber or plastic, a rust-proof metal (e.g., stainless steel) or any other suitable material. However, it will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that even less durable materials may be used.
With reference to
In other embodiments, activation of the timing device may initiate one or more other sensory devices. For example, in the dispenser unit 10 illustrated in
Although the above-described embodiments primarily consists of a single timing mechanism 30, a plurality of timing mechanisms 30 may be used. For example, as mentioned above, a first timing mechanism 30 may be disposed on top of the discharge nozzle assembly 18, while a second timing mechanism 30 is positioned inside the container 12 (e.g., on the suction nozzle 20). The dispenser unit 10 may be provided with liquid (e.g., soap, lotion, etc.) already in the container 12. Alternatively, the dispenser unit 10 may be initially empty, requiring the user to fill the container 12 with a liquid of his or her choice. Further, the dispensing unit 10 is preferably provided with a removable cap to allow the container 12 to be emptied or filled at the discretion of the user.
In operation, under the embodiment depicted in
The lighted member 102 can be similar to the starfish embodiment 30 described above, as illustrated. In other embodiments, different cartoon items, such as fish, seahorses, or whales can be used. In still other embodiments, the lighted member 102 can be a physical object, such as a life-preserver, scrub brush, or any other appropriate, aesthetically pleasing representation. The lighted member 102 can be coupled to the soap cake 150 as seen in
The lighted member 102 can be composed of two shell halves 104, as depicted, or can be a single unit. In some embodiments, the shell halves 104 are joined around the perimeter to produce a water-tight seal. In other embodiments, the periphery of the member 102 can be unsealed, and a seal instead disposed near a timing mechanism 106. The lighted member 102 can preferably be composed of a transparent or translucent material, such as a plastic or elastomer. The lighted member 102 can have a projection 120. The projection 120 can extend away from the lighted member 102, preferably toward the soap cake 150. As can be seen in the illustrated embodiment, the soap cake 150 can have a recess 152 sized and adapted to receive the projection 120. Accordingly, the lighted member 102 can be coupled to the soap cake 150. In other embodiments, different methods or coupling the lighted member 102 and the soap cake 150 can be employed. In some embodiments, the member 102 can be at least partially disposed within the soap cake 150. In other embodiments, rivets, composed of plastic, metal, or other materials, can be used to secure the member 102 to the soap cake 150. Preferably the member 102 is coupled such that as the soap cake 150 is eroded through repeated use, the coupling of the soap cake 150 to the member 102 remains until all or nearly all of the soap has been used.
The lighted member 102 can contain a timing mechanism 106. The timing mechanism 106 can comprise a plurality of power cells 110. The power cells can be solid-cell batteries or any other type of power cell as appropriate to activate the mechanism 106. Additionally, the timing mechanism 106 can comprise a plurality of lighting elements 108. In some embodiments, LED devices are used. In other embodiments, incandescent devices, or any other illuminating device can be disposed in the mechanism 106. In the illustrated embodiment, three power cells 110 and three lighting elements 108 are used, through more or fewer can be used as appropriate.
The timing mechanism 106 can be configured to receive a signal from an activation device 112. The activation device 112 can be any suitable sensor, including a motion sensor to detect use of the soap 100. Other devices 112 can include a pressure sensor, a pair of electrical terminals whose circuit, which can be completed with human contact or contiguous conductive fluid contact between the terminals. In some embodiments, submersion of the soap 100 into water to begin the washing process can activate the timing device. In other embodiments, the activation device 112 can be pressed from the top of the lighted member 102, activating the timing device.
The timing device 106 can operate as described above with reference to previous embodiments. In some embodiments, the timing device 106 can cause the lighting elements 108 to blink or maintain a steady light. The lighting elements 108 can remain active for any amount of time including, but not limited to, 15 seconds to two minutes. The frequency of blinking of the lights can remain constant or change over the illumination duration.
In other embodiments, the lighting elements 108 can be replaced by elements which create a tactile sensation, such as vibration or shaking. In some embodiments, the lighting elements 108 are replaced by elements which emit auditory signals, such as various tunes or melodies.
In use, the operator can begin the timing cycle through any applicable method, and use the soap cake 150 to cleanse their skin until the timing cycle completes and the lighting elements 108 cease operation. After complete use of the soap cake 150, once soap material is no longer coupled to the lighted member 102, the lighted member 102 can be used separately as a toy or decorative item.
The various methods and techniques described above provide a number of ways to carry out the invention. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all objectives or advantages described may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods may be performed in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objectives or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
Furthermore, the skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different embodiments disclosed herein. Similarly, the various features and steps discussed above, as well as other known equivalents for each such feature or step, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to perform methods in accordance with principles described herein. Additionally, the methods which are described and illustrated herein are not limited to the exact sequence of acts described, nor are they necessarily limited to the practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of events or acts, or less than all of the events or simultaneous occurrence of the events, may be utilized in practicing the embodiments of the invention.
Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Accordingly, the invention is not intended to be limited by the specific disclosures of preferred embodiments herein
This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/791,686, filed Apr. 13, 2006 which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60791686 | Apr 2006 | US |
