Exemplary embodiments of self-adjusting sanitizer/disinfectant sprayers are disclosed herein. An exemplary self-adjusting sanitizer/disinfectant sprayer includes a tank for holding sanitizer or disinfectant, one or more batteries, a motor, a motor controller, and a pump. The pump includes a pump inlet in fluid communication with an interior of the tank and a pump outlet. A processor, a dispensing wand and a flow sensor are also included. The flow sensor and motor controller are in circuit communication with the processor. The processor provides input to the motor controller for controlling the speed of the motor that drives the pump as a function of a signal indicative of the flow rate received from the flow sensor.
B05B 1/00 - Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
B05B 1/30 - Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages
B05B 9/04 - Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquid or other fluent material without essentially mixing with gas or vapour characterised by means for supplying liquid or other fluent material with pump
B05B 12/00 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area
B05B 12/02 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for controlling time, or sequence, of delivery
2.
SEQUENTIALLY ACTIVATED MULTI-DIAPHRAGM FOAM PUMPS, REFILL UNITS AND DISPENSER SYSTEMS HAVING A NON-UNIFORM WOBBLE PLATE
A wobble plate for a sequentially activated multi-diaphragm foam pump includes three or more wings, a wobble plate shaft, and an aperture located in each of the three or more wings. A first wing is configured to have a first distance from first contact surface of a first pump diaphragm. A second wing is configured to have a second distance from a first contact surface on a second pump diaphragm, and a third wing is configured to have substantially the second distance from a first contact surface on a third pump diaphragm.
F04B 45/04 - Pumps or pumping installations having flexible working members and specially adapted for elastic fluids having plate-like flexible members, e.g. diaphragms
Exemplary embodiments of dispensing systems, dispensers, refill units, methods for autonomously updating firmware and/or software in dispensers are disclosed herein. An exemplary dispenser includes a processor, dispenser memory, firmware for controlling one or more operations of the dispenser and a receptacle for receiving a refill unit. A reader for reading information from a near field communication tag is also included. The refill unit includes a near field communication tag secured thereto. Memory is located on the near field communications tag. Data stored on the memory. The data contains firmware update instructions. When the refill unit is installed in the receptacle, the reader reads the data. The processor causes the dispenser firmware to be updated by the firmware update instructions read from the near field communications tag on the refill unit.
Exemplary power systems for dynamically controlling a dispenser drive motor for dispensing soap, sanitizing or lotion. An exemplary soap, sanitizing or lotion dispenser includes a housing, a receptacle for receiving a container for holding a soap, sanitizing or lotion, a container of soap, sanitizing or lotion and a pump secured to the container. The exemplary soap, sanitizing or lotion dispenser includes a power source, a motor and an actuator that couples the motor to the pump. In addition, the exemplary soap, sanitizing or lotion dispenser includes pulse width modulation circuitry in circuit communication with the power source and the motor. Movement of the actuator one actuation cycle dispenses a dose of soap, sanitizing or lotion. The pulse width modulation circuitry provides a plurality of voltage pulses to the motor to move the actuator one actuation cycle.
An exemplary touch-free soap, sanitizer or lotion dispenser includes a housing, a movable cover, a processor, memory, a refill receptacle for receiving a refill container of fluid, and a variable output control card receptacle. The variable output control card receptacle is located proximate the refill receptacle such that when a refill unit is inserted in the refill receptacle, a variable output control card cannot be inserted or removed from the variable output control card receptacle. The dispenser further includes a reader for placing the processor in circuit communication with a variable output control card and in circuit communication with a refill unit data tag. In addition, the dispenser includes a sensor for sensing an object, a variable output control card and a removable and replaceable refill unit. The data tag is secured to the refill unit and the VOC card includes data on the variable output control card for setting the dispenser output volume.
Exemplary embodiments of wipes dispensing systems, wipes dispensing canisters and wipes dispensing mounting brackets are disclosed herein. An exemplary wipe dispensing system includes a wipes dispensing canister. The wipes dispensing canister includes one of a catch and a latch and a cap. A wall mounting bracket is included. The wall mounting bracket includes an opening for receiving the wipes dispensing canister, a first wall located on the inside of the opening and a second wall located on the inside of the opening. A cap ridge is formed between the first wall and the second wall. The wall mounting bracket further includes one of a catch and a latch. When the wipes dispensing canister is located within the wall mounting bracket, a bottom edge of the cap is located proximate the cap edge.
A dispenser for dispensing a material includes a circuit in communication with a battery and a rechargeable energy storage device. The circuit places the battery and the rechargeable energy storage device in series during a dispense event such that an actuator that facilitates dispensing the material during the dispense event receives power from the battery and the rechargeable energy storage device during the dispense event.
An exemplary compliance monitoring system includes a dispenser for dispensing soap or sanitizer, a one people counter for detecting the presence of one or more persons or assets, at least one badge and at least one locatee device. The locatee device includes an antenna and transmitting circuitry for transmitting signals. At least one of the dispenser, the people counter, and the one or more badges include a locatee device. A locator device is also provided. The locatee device circuitry includes wake-up circuitry for instructing the locatee device circuitry to transmit one or more signals, at least two antennae, triangulation based measurement circuitry to determine the angle of arrival of the one or more signals, and wake-up circuitry for waking up the triangulation based measurement circuitry. The wake-up circuitry causes the triangulation based measurement to listen for the one or more signals from the at least one locatee device.
G01S 5/02 - Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position-line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations using radio waves
G01S 3/14 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction
G01S 3/46 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using antennas spaced apart and measuring phase or time difference between signals therefrom, i.e. path-difference systems
G01S 3/48 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using antennas spaced apart and measuring phase or time difference between signals therefrom, i.e. path-difference systems the waves arriving at the antennas being continuous or intermittent and the phase difference of signals derived therefrom being measured
G01S 5/06 - Position of source determined by co-ordinating a plurality of position lines defined by path-difference measurements
9.
PUMPS WITH POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTING, REFILL UNITS AND DISPENSERS
Exemplary embodiments of pumps having positive pressure venting and refill units are disclosed herein. An exemplary pump includes a liquid pump chamber, a liquid piston, a first air pump chamber, and a first air piston and a mixing area in fluid communication with the liquid pump chamber and the first air pump chamber. The exemplary pump further includes a second air pump chamber and a second air pump piston. The second air pump chamber is configured for pumping air into a container and the first air piston and the second air piston move in unison.
An antimicrobial cleansing composition is disclosed that comprises about 0.25 wt.% to about 5.0 wt.% of at least one bisbiguanide antimicrobial active; up to about 15 wt.% of at least one C2 -C8 glycol; about 0.1 wt.% to about 2.0 wt.% of a first surfactant comprising an ethylene oxide-propylene oxide block copolymer; at least one additional surfactant selected from the group consisting of a C8-C16 alkyl polyglucoside and an amine oxide; and water. The antimicrobial cleansing composition passes European Standard EN-1499.
A01N 25/30 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of application; Substances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests characterised by the surfactants
A01N 43/16 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing heterocyclic compounds having rings with one or more oxygen or sulfur atoms as the only ring hetero atom with one hetero atom six-membered rings with oxygen as the ring hetero atom
A01P 1/00 - Disinfectants; Antimicrobial compounds or mixtures thereof
11.
WIPES DISPENSERS HAVING MULTIPLE WIPE CONTACT POINTS
Embodiments of dispensers for dispensing wet wipes are disclosed herein. An exemplary wipes dispenser includes a container, having an opening, a cap, and a first wipe engagement member. The first wipes engagement member includes an opening therethrough. The first wipes engagement member is configured to provide sufficient force on a wipe to prevent the wipe from falling back into the container. A second wipes engagement member is also included. The second wipes engagement member located away from the first wipes engagement member. The second wipes engagement member includes a pull through portion and a grip portion. An access point is located between the first wipes engagement member and the second wipes engagement member. The access point configured to allow a user to grip a lead edge of a wipe as the wipe is threaded through the first wipes engagement member.
Exemplary embodiments wet-on-demand dispensers are disclosed herein. An exemplary dispenser for dispensing wet-on-demand substrates includes a housing, a container for holding a fluid, one or more wetting tips in fluid communication with the container. Each of the one or more wetting tips has a movable valve member. The exemplary dispenser further includes a holder for holding a roll of substrate and the movable valve members are moved as a function of contact with the substrate.
B05C 1/06 - Apparatus in which liquid or other fluent material is applied to the surface of the work by contact with a member carrying the liquid or other fluent material, e.g. a porous member loaded with a liquid to be applied as a coating for applying liquid or other fluent material to work of indefinite length by rubbing contact, e.g. by brushes, by pads
B65H 37/00 - Article or web delivery apparatus incorporating devices for performing specified auxiliary operations
13.
WIPES DISPENSERS COMPRISING A DISPENSING NOZZLE HAVING A WEAR INDICATOR
Exemplary embodiments of wipes dispensers are disclosed herein. An exemplary wipes dispenser having a nozzle with a wear indicator includes a container, a plurality of wipes contained within the container, a fluid for wetting the plurality of wipes, a receiving member connected to the container, and an outlet nozzle housing for holding an elastomeric outlet nozzle. The elastomeric outlet nozzle includes a wear indicator that provides a visual indication that the nozzle should be replaced.
Exemplary embodiments of pumps, refill units and dispenser systems are disclosed herein. An exemplary refill unit for a soap, sanitizer or lotion includes a container for holding a fluid and a pump secured to the container. The pump includes a housing, a liquid piston, a liquid pump chamber, an air piston, an air pump chamber; and a piston holder. The liquid piston is connected to the air piston. The piston holder is connected to one of the liquid piston and the air piston. The connection comprises one or more projections and one or more grooves. The volume of the liquid pump chamber and the air pump chamber both change as a function of the engagement of the one or more projections with the one or more grooves.
Alkaline disinfecting compositions are provided. The alkaline disinfecting compositions contain one or more alcohols, one or more alkaline pH adjusting agents, and one or more nonionic surfactants. The alkaline disinfecting compositions have a pH of greater than 12. The alkaline disinfecting compositions achieve broad spectrum efficacy, including efficacy against C. difficile spores.
A01N 25/30 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of application; Substances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests characterised by the surfactants
A01P 1/00 - Disinfectants; Antimicrobial compounds or mixtures thereof
A biofilm inhibiting, non-antimicrobial cleansing composition is disclosed, comprising from about 10.0 wt.% to less than about 30 wt.% of one or more C1-C8 alcohols; about 0.5 wt.% to about 10.0 wt.% of at least one primary surfactant, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition; 0 wt.% to about 10.0 wt.% of at least one secondary surfactant, based on the total weight of the cleansing composition; a pH adjusting agent; and water. The composition does not achieve a microbial kill level greater than 2.0 log and reduces the formation of a biofilm by at least 30%, compared to an otherwise comparable composition that does not include about 10 wt.% to about 30 wt.% of one or more C1-C8 alcohols.
An exemplary foam dispensing system includes a dispenser housing configured to be mounted below a counter, a spout configured to be mounted above a counter, a container supported by the dispenser housing, a pump in fluid communications with the container and configured to be mounted below a counter. The pump includes an air pump portion and a liquid pump portion. The pump also includes a mixing chamber. Liquid pumped from the liquid pump portion is mixed with air pumped from the air pump portion in the mixing chamber. A dispense tube is included that is configured to extend from the mixing chamber below a countertop to one or more mix media located above the countertop proximate an end of the spout. The one or more mix media are located near an end of the spout. An outlet nozzle is also provided and is located downstream of the one or more mix media.
Exemplary foam-at-a-distance systems include a spout, a container, and a foam generator having a suck-back mechanism located within the spout. The system includes a liquid pump chamber, an air pump chamber, a liquid conduit and an air conduit. The foam generator has a differential bore housing. The differential bore housing has a first portion with a first inside bore and a second portion with a second inside bore, wherein the first inside bore has a smaller diameter than the second inside bore. A piston having a seal extending from the piston that is in contact with the second inside bore is also included. A mixing chamber is located in the large bore. Movement of the seal in an upstream direction provides negative pressure in the second mixing chamber and draws in fluid from the outlet.
A dispensing system includes an above-deck nozzle portion, a reservoir for holding fluid, a foam pump, a multi-lumen dispense passage, and a mixing portion. The above-deck nozzle portion has a dispenser outlet and is disposed above a counter. The foam pump is disposed below the counter and includes at least one liquid pump chamber in fluid communication with the reservoir, at least one air pump chamber, and a pump outlet. The multi-lumen dispense passage includes an inlet, an outlet, at least one liquid lumen, and at least two air lumens. The inlet is in fluid communication with the pump outlet, the outlet is in fluid communication with the dispenser outlet, and the at least one liquid lumen and the at least two air lumens are each in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet of the multi-lumen dispense passage. The mixing portion is disposed between the multi-lumen dispense passage and the dispenser outlet.
A47K 5/16 - Foam or lather making devices with mechanical drive
B05B 7/24 - Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
20.
FOAM PUMPS, REFILL UNITS AND DISPENSERS WITH DIFFERENTIAL BORE SUCK-BACK MECHANISM
An exemplary system for dispensing foam includes a container holding a foamable liquid, a pump, and a suck-back device. The suck back device has a housing having a small bore with first diameter and a large bore with a second diameter; a dual body piston with a first piston that reciprocates in the small bore and a second piston that reciprocates in the large bore; a flow restrictor located proximate the dual body piston, a suck back chamber formed at least in part by the large bore and the second piston, and a foam outlet. The flow restrictor is configured so that fluid flow into the suck back device causes the suck back chamber to compress and when the fluid flow stops, a biasing member causes the suck back chamber to expand and suck back residual foam into the suck back chamber.
A dispenser includes a housing, an inverted container disposed in the housing, a outlet nozzle, a pump, a first check valve, and a second check valve. The container holds a fluid. The pump is disposed between the container and the outlet nozzle. The pump includes a pump inlet in fluid communication with the container, a pump outlet in fluid communication with the outlet nozzle, and a pump chamber in fluid communication with the pump inlet and the pump outlet. The pump chamber is movable between an expanded position and a compressed position. The first check valve is disposed between the pump and the outlet nozzle, and the first check valve has a first cracking pressure. The second check valve is disposed between the first check valve and the outlet nozzle, and the second check valve has a second cracking pressure. The second cracking pressure of the second check valve is greater than the first cracking pressure of the first check valve.
Alcohol-based hand conditioners are provided. The alcohol-based hand conditioners have superior aesthetics suitable for use in rapid workflow environments. They are non-greasy and low residue, and thus do not leave a sticky or tacky feeling on the hands following application.
Embodiments of dispensers for dispensing wet wipes are disclosed herein. An exemplary dispenser includes a container, a plurality of wipes, and a wipes dispensing nozzle. The wipes dispensing nozzle has a first housing member and a second housing member that are movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the wipes dispensing nozzle has an opening that has a first diameter. In the second position, the nozzle has an opening that has a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. When the nozzle is in the first position, a lead wipe of the plurality of wipes may be threaded through the wipes dispensing nozzle. In the first position, the wipes dispensing nozzle does not exert sufficient frictional force against a trailing wipe to cause the lead wipe to separate from the trailing wipe along a perforation line. In the second position, the wipes nozzle is in a closed dispensing position.
Exemplary soap, sanitizer and lotion dispensers are disclosed herein. An exemplary dispenser includes a housing; a receptacle for receiving a container; a container of fluid comprising soap, sanitizer or lotion; a pump in fluid communication with the container; a power source; a pump coupled to a motor and pulse width modulation circuitry in circuit communication with the power source and the motor. The pulse width modulation circuitry is initially set to cause a selected dose of fluid to be dispensed at a base speed. A sensor for detecting a parameter indicative of an actual speed of a dispense of the fluid is also included. When the actual speed of the dispense of fluid is less than the base speed or greater than the base speed, the pulse width modulation circuitry adjusts the pulse width to cause the speed of a following dispense of fluid to be closer to the base speed.
An dispenser includes a housing, a container disposed in the housing for holding a liquid, a nozzle, and a pump. The pump is disposed between the container and the nozzle. The pump includes a pump inlet, a pump outlet, a pump chamber, a first check valve, and a second check valve. The pump inlet is in fluid communication with the container and the pump chamber, and the pump outlet is in fluid communication with the pump chamber and the nozzle. The pump chamber is movable between an expanded position and a compressed position. The first check valve is disposed between the container and the pump, and the first check valve has a first cracking pressure. The second check valve is disposed between the first check valve and the pump, and the second check valve has a second cracking pressure. The first cracking pressure of the first check valve is greater than the second cracking pressure of the second check valve.
An antimicrobial composition is provided that comprises about 10.0 to about 40.0 wt.% of one or more C1-8 alcohols, based on the total weight of the antimicrobial composition; and two or more of a surfactant; an enhancer; and a buffer. The pH of the composition is less than or equal to about 6.0 and the composition achieves a microbial log reduction of greater than 4.0 log CFU/ml at a contact time of 1 minute, in accordance ASTM E2783.
A01N 25/30 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of application; Substances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests characterised by the surfactants
A01N 37/10 - Aromatic or araliphatic carboxylic acids, or thio-analogues thereof; Derivatives thereof
A01N 37/36 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing at least one carboxylic group or a thio-analogue, or a derivative thereof, and a singly bound oxygen or sulfur atom attached to the same carbon skeleton, this oxygen or sulfur atom not being a member of a carboxylic group or of a thio-anal
A01N 37/40 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing at least one carboxylic group or a thio-analogue, or a derivative thereof, and a singly bound oxygen or sulfur atom attached to the same carbon skeleton, this oxygen or sulfur atom not being a member of a carboxylic group or of a thio-anal having at least one oxygen or sulfur atom attached to an aromatic ring system having at least one carboxylic group or a thio-analogue, or a derivative thereof, and one oxygen or sulfur atom attached to the same aromatic ring system
A01P 1/00 - Disinfectants; Antimicrobial compounds or mixtures thereof
27.
REFILLABLE DISPENSERS HAVING RESERVOIRS AND REFILL CONTAINERS CONFIGURED FOR FLUID AND AIR TRANSFER THEREBETWEEN
A fluid dispenser includes a housing, a pump, an outlet nozzle, a reservoir, a liquid passage, an air passage, and a refill container. The pump and reservoir are attached to the housing, and both the outlet nozzle and the reservoir are in fluid communication with the pump. The reservoir has at least one engagement member, and the liquid passage and the air passage are located in the engagement member. The refill container has at least one sealing member, and the refill container is configured to be releasably attached to the reservoir such that the refill container is in fluid communication with the reservoir. When the refill container is attached to the reservoir, the engagement member engages the sealing member to cause the liquid passage and the air passage to be in fluid communication with the refill container.
A low-water cleansing composition includes: from greater than 15 wt.% to less than 30 wt.% of one or more C1-C8 alcohols; at least 16 wt.% of a mixture of two or more surfactants, where the mixture of surfactants comprises one or more anionic surfactants and one or more zwitterionic surfactants; at least 0.05 wt.% of a pH adjuster; and water, the wt.% being based on a total weight of the low-water cleansing composition, where the low-water cleansing composition comprises one or more thickening agents, and the low-water cleansing composition is a non¬ antimicrobial cleansing composition and comprises greater than 7.0 wt.% active surfactant. The low-water cleansing composition overcomes deficiencies of conventional low-water cleansing compositions.
A61Q 17/00 - Barrier preparations; Preparations brought into direct contact with the skin for affording protection against external influences, e.g. sunlight, X-rays or other harmful rays, corrosive materials, bacteria or insect stings
A61Q 17/04 - Topical preparations for affording protection against sunlight or other radiation; Topical sun tanning preparations
A non-antimicrobial cleansing composition is disclosed comprising from about 10.0 wt.% to less than about 40 wt.% of one or more C1-C8 alcohols; about 0.5 wt.% to about 10.0 wt.% of at least one primary surfactant; 0 wt.% to about 10.0 wt.% of at least one secondary surfactant, with the primary and secondary surfactants having an HLB value greater than 8; a pH adjusting agent; and water. The composition does not achieve a microbial kill level greater than 2.0 log.
A61Q 17/00 - Barrier preparations; Preparations brought into direct contact with the skin for affording protection against external influences, e.g. sunlight, X-rays or other harmful rays, corrosive materials, bacteria or insect stings
A61Q 17/04 - Topical preparations for affording protection against sunlight or other radiation; Topical sun tanning preparations
A topical sanitizing composition for reducing the concentration of non- enveloped viruses on the skin is provided. The topical sanitizing composition includes one or more pH adjusters, at least one carbomer, and at least about 50 wt.% of one or more C1-8 alcohols. The sanitizing composition with pH adjuster and carbomer is able to achieve at least a 3.0 log reduction in the concentration of the non-enveloped virus and in some cases passes the EN 14476 standard.
A fluid dispenser includes a dispenser housing, a container for holding a foamable liquid, a foam pump, an outlet in fluid communication with the foam pump, and a vacuum actuated suck-back mechanism in fluid communication with the foam pump and the outlet. The foam pump has a liquid pump portion and an air pump portion. The vacuum actuated suck-back mechanism includes a chamber and a movable member. The chamber has a vacuum port that is in fluid communication with the air pump portion of the foam pump, and a suck-back port that is in fluid communication with the outlet. The movable member of the vacuum actuated suck-back mechanism moves under vacuum pressure to reduce the volume of the chamber. The volume of the chamber increases upon removal of the vacuum pressure.
Exemplary embodiments of universal mounting brackets and dispensers with mounting brackets are disclosed herein. An exemplary universal dispenser mounting bracket includes a base. The base has a first surface for connecting to a dispenser. A first spring arm extends from the base in a first direction and has a first arm clamp. A second spring arm extends from the base in a second direction and has a second arm clamp. The first and second spring arms have a rest position and a biased position. Moving the first and second spring arms away from their rest position generates a clamp force in the spring arms that urges the first and second spring arms toward their rest position. When the mounting bracket is mounted to a surface, the base is on a first side of the surface and the first and second clamp arms are on a second side of the surface and the clamp force generated by the spring arms secures the mounting bracket to the surface.
Exemplary embodiments of manual dispensers and actuating mechanisms are disclosed herein. An exemplary dispenser includes a housing, a receptacle for receiving a container of fluid and an actuating mechanism for causing fluid to be dispensed from the container. The actuation mechanism has a first pivot arm having a pivot point on a first end and a cam on a second end and a second pivot arm having a pivot point a first end and a curved contact surface on a second end. The actuating mechanism includes a pushbar. One of the first and second pivot members is connected to the pushbar. When the pushbar is pushed inward, the cam is configured to travel along the curved contact surface. Movement of the cam along the curved contact surface moves the engagement mechanism upward and downward in a substantially linear motion when the engagement mechanism is connected to a pump to cause the pump to prime with fluid and dispense the fluid.
A system for monitoring at least one person passing through an area includes a first monitor (104), a second monitor (106), and a receiver (108). The first monitor is configured to detect activity in a first zone (110) and to obtain first data relating to detected activity in the first zone. The second monitor is configured to detect activity in a second zone (111) and to obtain second data relating to detected activity in the second zone. In addition, the first monitor is in circuit communication with the second monitor and in wireless communication with the receiver. After obtaining the second data, the second monitor generates a second monitor signal (112) that comprises the second data and sends the second monitor signal to the first monitor. The first monitor is configured to receive the second monitor signal and generate a combined data packet that comprises the first data and the second data. After the first monitor generates the combined data packet, the first monitor sends a combined signal (114) to the receiver, in which the combined signal includes the combined data packet.
A topical cleansing composition for restoring skin's natural balance of bacteria and/or increasing the production and/or activity of antimicrobial peptides is provided. The topical cleansing composition includes about 0.005 wt.% to 15.0 wt.% of an active ingredient that is one or more of a probiotic, probiotic derivative, prebiotic, and at least one primary and at least one secondary surfactant.
A61K 8/46 - Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds containing sulfur
A61K 8/99 - Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof, of undetermined constitution from microorganisms other than algae or fungi, e.g. protozoa or bacteria
A61K 47/20 - Organic compounds, e.g. natural or synthetic hydrocarbons, polyolefins, mineral oil, petrolatum or ozokerite containing sulfur, e.g. dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO], docusate, sodium lauryl sulfate or aminosulfonic acids
A method of increasing antimicrobial peptide concentration on the skin is provided. The method includes cleaning skin with at least one of a cleanser and a sanitizer and applying a sanitizing composition to the skin. The sanitizing composition comprises one or more polypeptides and extracts that increase the concentration of antimicrobial peptides. The application also relates to a nasal spray reducing pathogen binding in the nose and comprising a Cl-8 alcohol and one or more of a probiotic, probiotic derivative and a prebiotic.
A61K 8/64 - Proteins; Peptides; Derivatives or degradation products thereof
A61K 8/96 - Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof, of undetermined constitution
A61K 8/97 - Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof, of undetermined constitution from derivatives thereof
A61K 31/045 - Hydroxy compounds, e.g. alcohols; Salts thereof, e.g. alcoholates
A61K 36/00 - Medicinal preparations of undetermined constitution containing material from algae, lichens, fungi or plants, or derivatives thereof, e.g. traditional herbal medicines
A61P 31/00 - Antiinfectives, i.e. antibiotics, antiseptics, chemotherapeutics
A61Q 17/00 - Barrier preparations; Preparations brought into direct contact with the skin for affording protection against external influences, e.g. sunlight, X-rays or other harmful rays, corrosive materials, bacteria or insect stings
A sanitizing composition for restoring skins natural balance of bacteria and/or increasing the production and/or activity of antimicrobial peptides is provided. The sanitizing composition includes about 0.005 wt.% to 15.0 wt.% of an active ingredient that is one or more of a probiotic, probiotic derivative, prebiotic, and a prebiotic derivative and at least one compound that delivers a sanitizing effect.
A61K 8/99 - Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof, of undetermined constitution from microorganisms other than algae or fungi, e.g. protozoa or bacteria
A61K 9/00 - Medicinal preparations characterised by special physical form
A61K 31/045 - Hydroxy compounds, e.g. alcohols; Salts thereof, e.g. alcoholates
A61P 31/00 - Antiinfectives, i.e. antibiotics, antiseptics, chemotherapeutics
A61Q 17/00 - Barrier preparations; Preparations brought into direct contact with the skin for affording protection against external influences, e.g. sunlight, X-rays or other harmful rays, corrosive materials, bacteria or insect stings
A method of increasing antimicrobial peptide production and/or activity on the skin is provided. The method includes cleaning skin with at least one of a soap and lotion and applying a topical composition to the skin. The topical composition is comprised of one or more polypeptides and extracts that increase the concentration of antimicrobial peptides on a surface.
A61K 8/64 - Proteins; Peptides; Derivatives or degradation products thereof
A61Q 17/00 - Barrier preparations; Preparations brought into direct contact with the skin for affording protection against external influences, e.g. sunlight, X-rays or other harmful rays, corrosive materials, bacteria or insect stings
A disinfecting composition for killing pathogens on various surfaces is provided. The disinfecting composition is environmentally friendly and is certified natural according to the ECOCERT certification for detergents. The disinfecting composition generally includes one or more Ci-8 alcohols and at least three surfactants. The disinfecting composition passes one or more of the following European standards at a contact time of less than or equal to about 1 minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN 1275, EN 1650, and EN 13624.
A01N 25/30 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of application; Substances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests characterised by the surfactants
A01N 37/36 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing at least one carboxylic group or a thio-analogue, or a derivative thereof, and a singly bound oxygen or sulfur atom attached to the same carbon skeleton, this oxygen or sulfur atom not being a member of a carboxylic group or of a thio-anal
A01P 1/00 - Disinfectants; Antimicrobial compounds or mixtures thereof
An exemplary dispenser includes a housing and a refill unit. The refill unit being removable and replaceable. The dispenser also includes a processor, memory, a dose count stored in memory that is indicative of the number of doses in a full refill unit, a level sensor for detecting a predetermined level the refill unit and a dispense count indicative of the number doses of product dispensed from the refill unit. In addition, the dispenser includes memory and has logic stored in the memory for recalibrating the number of doses remaining in the refill unit as a function of the dose count, the number of doses of product dispensed and the predetermined level of product. The number of doses of product remaining in the refill unit may be displayed on the dispenser, on a remote station, or on both the dispenser and a remote station.
A47K 5/12 - Dispensers for soap for liquid or pasty soap
G01F 11/00 - Apparatus requiring external operation adapted at each repeated and identical operation to measure and separate a predetermined volume of fluid or fluent solid material from a supply or container, without regard to weight, and to deliver it
G01F 13/00 - Apparatus for measuring by volume and delivering fluids or fluent solid materials, not provided for in the preceding groups
G01F 15/02 - Compensating or correcting for variations in pressure, density, or temperature
41.
SEQUENTIALLY ACTIVATED MULTI-DIAPHRAGM FOAM PUMPS, REFILL UNITS AND DISPENSER SYSTEMS
An exemplary foam dispenser includes a housing, a drive motor and a foam pump operatively coupled to the drive motor. The foam pump is secured to the housing and the foam pump includes a housing and a molded multi-chamber diaphragm. The molded multi- chamber diaphragm includes a liquid pump chamber, two or more air pump chambers; and an outlet valve. A mixing chamber is included and located downstream of the outlet valve for mixing foamable liquid from the liquid pump diaphragm with air from each of the two or more air pump chambers. In addition, a foam cartridge and an outlet for dispensing foam are also included.
A method of increasing antimicrobial peptide concentration on the skin is provided. The method includes cleaning skin with at least one of a cleanser and a sanitizer and applying a topical composition to the skin. The topical composition is comprised of one or more polypeptides and natural extracts that increase the concentration of antimicrobial peptides.
A01N 65/36 - Rutaceae [Rue family], e.g. lime, orange, lemon, corktree or pricklyash
A01N 65/00 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing material from algae, lichens, bryophyta, multi-cellular fungi or plants, or extracts thereof
A01P 1/00 - Disinfectants; Antimicrobial compounds or mixtures thereof
A topical cleansing composition for stimulating the production of antimicrobial peptides on the skin, includes: about 0.02 wt. % to about 5 wt.% of an active ingredient, the active ingredient comprising at least one of linseed extract, flaxseed extract, hemp seed extract, and grapefruit seed extract; about 3 wt. % to about 13 wt. % of one or more primary surfactants comprising sodium laureth sulfate; one or more foaming agents in an amount of from 0.1 wt. % to about 35 wt.%; and water. The topical cleansing composition increases the concentration of antimicrobial peptides on skin, as compared to an otherwise identical topical composition without the active ingredient.
A61K 8/64 - Proteins; Peptides; Derivatives or degradation products thereof
A61K 8/46 - Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds containing sulfur
A61K 8/97 - Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof, of undetermined constitution from derivatives thereof
A method of reducing pathogen binding on skin is provided. The method includes cleaning skin with at least one of a cleanser and a sanitizer and applying a topical composition to the skin. The topical composition is comprised of one or more prebiotic and at least one carrier.
A61K 8/99 - Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof, of undetermined constitution from microorganisms other than algae or fungi, e.g. protozoa or bacteria
A61K 31/715 - Polysaccharides, i.e. having more than five saccharide radicals attached to each other by glycosidic linkages; Derivatives thereof, e.g. ethers, esters
A topical sanitizing composition for restoring skin's natural balance of bacteria is provided. The topical sanitizing composition includes about 0.02 wt. % to 10.0 wt.% of an active ingredient, at least about 40 wt. % of one or more C1-6 alcohols; and water. The active ingredient comprises one or more of a probiotic, probiotic derivative, and a prebiotic.
Exemplary embodiments of high non-aerosol foam sanitizers are disclosed herein. An exemplary embodiment of high non-aerosol foam sanitizer includes a liquid mixture that includes an alcohol, water and a surfactant mixed with and entrapping air to form a plurality of foam bubbles. Wherein more than about 50 percent of the foam bubbles have a size of between about 50 µm and about 250 µm.
A counter mountable fluid dispenser includes a below deck assembly and an above deck assembly. The below deck assembly includes a reservoir for storing a fluid, a dispensing mechanism in fluid communication with the reservoir, and a controller in circuit communication with the dispensing mechanism for operation of the dispensing mechanism. The above deck assembly includes a spout defining an outlet port in fluid communication with the reservoir for dispensing fluid stored in the reservoir upon operation of the dispensing mechanism, an external supply port in fluid communication with the reservoir by a supply passage to supply fluid to the reservoir, an access door movable between a closed position blocking access to the external supply port and an open position permitting access to the external supply port, and a switch mechanism configured to disable the dispensing mechanism when the access door is in the open position.
An exemplary foam dispenser includes a housing, a container for holding foamable liquid and a foam pump in fluid communication with the container. The foam pump has a plurality of diaphragm pumping chambers wherein at least one diaphragm pumping chamber pumps liquid, and at least two diaphragm pumping chambers pump air. The foam pump includes a liquid outlet valve having a cracking pressure of at least about 5 pounds per square inch; and two or more air outlet valves having cracking pressure of less than about 5 pounds per square inch. A mixing chamber is located downstream of the plurality of diaphragm pumping chambers for mixing liquid and air to form a foamy mixture. A foam cartridge located downstream of the mixing chamber and an outlet is provided for dispensing foam.
Exemplary methods and systems for killing or deactivating spores include applying a fluid containing an additive to a surface containing a spore; and applying direct or indirect plasma to the surface for a period of time.
An exemplary foam dispenser system includes a housing, a container, a motor, an air pump, a foam pump, a first mixing chamber, a second mixing chamber, a foam cartridge, and an outlet for dispensing foam. The container holds a foamable liquid. The foam pump has a liquid pump portion that pumps liquid, and an air pump portion that pumps air. The first mixing chamber is located downstream of the liquid pump portion and the air pump portion, and the liquid and the air mix in the first mixing chamber to create a first foam mixture. The second mixing chamber is located downstream of the first mixing chamber and the air pump, and the first mixture and air from the air pump mix in the second mixing chamber to create a second foam mixture. The second foam mixture travels through the foam cartridge and exits the outlet as rich foam.
Refill units for foam dispensers include a container for holding foamable liquid, a foam pump secured to the container, a foaming cartridge, an outlet and an actuation mechanism. The foam pump includes a housing, a liquid pump diaphragm, a plurality of air pump diaphragms, and a mixing chamber. An actuation mechanism releasably connects to a drive system in the dispenser. The actuation mechanism sequentially activates the liquid pump diaphragm and the air pump diaphragms when the refill unit is connected to the dispenser and the drive system. Sequential activation of the liquid pump diaphragm and air pump diaphragms causes the liquid pump diaphragm to pump at least a partial dose of liquid into the mixing chamber and the air pump diaphragms to pump at least a partial dose of air into the mixing chamber.
A sequentially activated multi-diaphragm foam pump for a foam dispenser includes a housing with liquid pump and air pump portions secured to the housing. The liquid pump portion has a liquid inlet, a liquid inlet valve, a liquid pump diaphragm, a liquid outlet valve, and a liquid outlet. The air pump portion has first and second air inlets, first and second air inlet valves, first and second air pump diaphragms, and first and second air outlets. A mixing chamber is in fluid communication with the liquid outlet, the first air outlet, and the second air outlet. In sequential order, the liquid pump diaphragm pumps liquid into the mixing chamber, the first air pump diaphragm pumps air into the mixing chamber to form a liquid air mixture, and the second air pump diaphragm pumps air into the mixing chamber to form a foamy mixture that is dispensed through an outlet.
A system and method of authenticating a replaceable product reservoir for use in a product dispenser includes incorporating a data storage device into the replaceable product reservoir where the dispenser control reads data from the storage device to verify that the correct replaceable product reservoir has been installed in the product dispenser.
A refill unit for use with a soap or sanitizer dispenser configured to selectively retain the refill unit and having a dispenser control capable of executing coded instructions comprises: a product reservoir made of polymeric material configured for holding soap or sanitizer; the product reservoir having an outlet; a fluid pump having an inlet in fluid connection with the outlet, wherein the fluid pump is fixedly attached to and moveable with the product reservoir; and a read-write data storage device secured to one of the product reservoir and the fluid pump.
55.
SYSTEMS FOR PROVIDING CONDITION-BASED DATA FROM A USER INTERACTIVE DEVICE
A user interactive device includes a housing, a user interactive mechanism carried by the housing, a wireless transmitter storing application identifying data identifying an application associated with the user interactive device, and a controller in circuit communication with the wireless transmitter, wherein the controller is configured to communicate device condition data to the wireless transmitter. The wireless transmitter is configured to wirelessly transmit a broadcast data packet including the application identifying data and the device condition data.
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
H04W 4/06 - Selective distribution of broadcast services, e.g. multimedia broadcast multicast service [MBMS]; Services to user groups; One-way selective calling services
An exemplary dispenser includes a base having at least one rail, a cover, and a mounting portion for a refill unit having a container for fluid. The cover is slideable along at least one rail of the base between a closed position and an open position.
Exemplary methods of and system for generating an antimicrobial wipe to clean and disinfect a surface contaminated with bacteria, viruses, spores, fungi, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method includes applying non-thermal plasma to a moistened wipe to activate a liquid in the wipe. In some embodiments, the method includes applying non-thermal plasma to a liquid and then applying the activated liquid to a wipe. In one embodiment of a system for generating an antimicrobial wipe the system includes a housing having an opening; a supply of wipes disposed within the housing; a non -thermal plasma generator disposed within the housing; a power supply electrically coupled to the non-thermal plasma generator; and a feed system disposed within the housing, wherein the feed system moves one or more wipes from the supply of wipes past the plasma generator and out of the opening. As the feed system moves the wipes past the plasma generator, the plasma generator applies non-thermal plasma to the wipes.
A01N 61/00 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing substances of unknown or undetermined composition, e.g. substances characterised only by the mode of action
A01P 1/00 - Disinfectants; Antimicrobial compounds or mixtures thereof
In an exemplary method of monitoring usage of an electronically operated dispenser, a dispensing mechanism is operated by an internal controller of the dispenser in response to user activation of an actuator of the dispenser in communication with the controller. In response to operation of the dispensing mechanism, dispenser data is written to an internal dispenser memory in wired communication with the controller, with the controller and the dispenser memory being electrically connected with and powered by a power source. The dispenser memory receives a wireless interrogation signal from an external reader and collects energy from the wireless interrogation signal. In response to receipt of the wireless interrogation signal, the dispenser memory wirelessly transmits the written dispenser data to the external reader, with the dispenser memory being powered by the collected energy.
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for automatically forming a wireless sensor network, implementing power management for the wireless sensor network, and/or self-healing within the wireless sensor network. For example, hub devices, configured to forward messages through the wireless sensor network to a gateway device having access to a network, may automatically join and configure into the wireless sensor network by locating and connecting to master devices using signal frequencies representing numbers of hops to the gateway device. A hub device may be configured to transition between a low power sleep slate for power conservation and an awakened normal operational state for transmitting timing signals according to a duty cycle, and thus the hub device may be capable of operating from a battery. If a hub device determines that a master device has become inoperable, the hub device may automatically search for a new master device.
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for automatically forming a wireless sensor network, implementing power management for the wireless sensor network, and/or self-healing within the wireless sensor network. For example, hub devices, configured to forward messages through the wireless sensor network to a gateway device having access to a network, may automatically join and configure into the wireless sensor network by locating and connecting to master devices using signal frequencies representing numbers of hops to the gateway device. A hub device may be configured to transition between a low power sleep slate for power conservation and an awakened normal operational state for transmitting timing signals according to a duty cycle, and thus the hub device may be capable of operating from a battery. If a hub device determines that a master device has become inoperable, the hub device may automatically search for a new master device.
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for automatically forming a wireless sensor network, implementing power management for the wireless sensor network, and/or self-healing within the wireless sensor network. For example, hub devices, configured to forward messages through the wireless sensor network to a gateway device having access to a network, may automatically join and configure into the wireless sensor network by locating and connecting to master devices using signal frequencies representing numbers of hops to the gateway device. A hub device may be configured to transition between a low power sleep state for power conservation and an awakened normal operational state for transmitting timing signals according to a duty cycle, and thus the hub device may be capable of operating from a battery. If a hub device determines that a master device has become inoperable, the hub device may automatically search for a new master device.
A cleaning, sanitizing or disinfecting scrubbing device includes a body, a non-thermal plasma generator and damp wipe. Generated plasma activates fluid in the wipe. The device may include spacer posts between the body and wipe and a conductive mesh between the body and wipe or embedded in the wipe. Another embodiment includes a reservoir for holding a water- based fluid, a fluid delivery element connected to the reservoir by a tube through which the fluid can flow and a non-thermal plasma generator. The non-thermal plasma generator activates the fluid. In one embodiment the scrubbing device is a mitt. In another embodiment the scrubbing device is a glove.
C02F 1/46 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
D06M 10/02 - Physical treatment of fibres, threads, yarns, fabrics or fibrous goods made from such materials, e.g. ultrasonic, corona discharge, irradiation, electric currents or magnetic fields; Physical treatment combined with treatment with chemical compounds or elements ultrasonic or sonic; Corona discharge
An exemplary refill unit for a dispenser includes an inverted non-collapsing container for holding a liquid. A pump housing is secured to the bottom of the inverted non-collapsing container. The pump housing includes a pump chamber for pumping fluid out of the inverted non-collapsing container. The pump housing includes an annular venting chamber. The annular venting chamber has a floor with an opening therethrough. A vent valve is located within the venting chamber. The vent valve has a first wiper seal in contact with a wall of the annular venting chamber.
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for dispense event verification. For example, a user verification component may be associated with a dispenser that is configured to dispense material, such as a sanitizer dispenser configured to dispense sanitizer. The user verification component may obtain user identification information associated with a user attempting to invoke the dispenser to perform a dispense event of material. The user identification information may be evaluated against a dispense access model (e.g., specifying levels of access to the dispenser for users, such as a first user being allowed to perform up to 10 dispense events of sanitizer every 45 minutes) to determine whether to facilitate or restrict the dispense event. In this way, dispensing of material that may be susceptible to abuse by users (e.g., prisoners, psychiatric ward patients, daycare children, etc.) may be monitored and/or restricted for the safety of such users.
A61G 12/00 - Accommodation for nursing, e.g. in hospitals, not covered by groups , e.g. trolleys for transport of medicaments or food; Prescription lists
65.
DISPENSER PUMP USING ELECTRICALLY ACTIVATED MATERIAL
A pump for dispensing fluid includes a dome portion for storing the fluid received through a pump inlet. The dome portion is movable between a compressed state and an uncompressed state. The pump includes a flexible membrane having a first pliability when a first voltage is applied and a second pliability when a second voltage is applied. The pump includes a first biasing device that applies a first force in a first direction to the flexible membrane. The flexible membrane moves the dome portion from the uncompressed state to the compressed state. The pump includes a second biasing device that applies a second force in a second direction to the dome portion to move the dome portion from the compressed state to the uncompressed state when the flexible membrane has the second pliability. Alternatively, the dome portion moves in the second direction in response to a gravitational force.
Among other things, one or more systems and/or techniques for improving performance of a dispensing system are provided herein. The dispensing system may comprise an emitter and a detector. The emitter may be configured to transmit light (e.g., and/or one or more other signals). The detector may be configured to measure light, for example. The detector may determine a first measurement of light while the emitter is not transmitting light. The detector may determine a second measurement of light responsive to the emitter transmitting light. The detector may determine a third measurement of light based upon a comparison of the first measurement of light with the second measurement of light. The detector may be direct current (DC) coupled while determining the third measurement of light.
Exemplary embodiments of vented refill units and dispensers having vented refill units are disclosed herein. An exemplary refill unit includes a non-collapsing inverted container. The container has a neck located at the bottom of the container. A pump is secured to the neck. The pump has a housing that has a cylindrical outside surface. In addition, the housing has an attachment mechanism for attaching the pump to a venting insert. The venting insert has a cylindrical inside surface and a cylindrical outside surface. At least a portion of the venting insert is located within the neck. An air passage is located between the pump housing and the cylindrical inside surface of the venting insert. One or more apertures are located through the venting insert. A one-way air inlet valve is located proximate the one or more apertures.
Exemplary dispensers, pumps and refill units are disclosed herein. An exemplary refill unit includes a container and a foam pump. The foam pump includes a liquid pump chamber, a compressible air inlet chamber and a compressed air inlet. The volume of the compressible air inlet chamber is less than the volume of air used to make a dose of foam. A one-way air inlet valve is located proximate the compressed air inlet. A piston is included that is movable within the liquid pump chamber and has a liquid seal member and an air seal member. The liquid pump chamber includes a liquid outlet into a center portion of the piston. One or more openings extend through the piston wall and provide a passage from the compressible air chamber to the center portion of the piston. The pump further includes mix media and an outlet.
An energy storage device, like for example a supercapacitor, is used to provide power to activate a motor for dispensing a dosed amount of hand care product. The energy storage device or supercapacitor is recharged from an energy supply source, e.g. batteries, integrated into the replaceable refill reservoir and/or mounted into the dispenser housing. A controller directs energy discharged from the energy supply source(s) at one of a plurality of discharge energy rates for recharging the energy storage device. Depending on the number of dispense events that occur with a given time interval, the controller may vary the rate at which the energy is discharged from the energy supply source(s) to recharge the energy storage device.
A dispensing system and related kit, including a container within which a material is contained. The dispensing system includes a nozzle, attached to the container, having a first portion and a second portion. The dispensing system includes a magnet attached to the first portion and a compliance system attached to the second portion. The compliance system includes a transmitter and a magnet sensor, coupled to the transmitter, for detecting a presence of the magnet when the first portion with respect to the second portion is in a closed position, and for detecting a non-presence of the magnet when the first portion with respect, to the second portion is in an opened position. The transmitter transmits a wireless compliance signal indicative of the magnet sensor detecting at least one of the presence or the non-presence of the magnet.
A dispensing system includes a container within which a material is contained. The dispensing system includes a nozzle, attached to the container, having a first portion and a second portion. The dispensing system includes a magnet attached to the first portion and a compliance system attached to the second portion. The compliance system includes a transmitter and a magnet sensor, coupled to the transmitter, for detecting a presence of the magnet when the first portion with respect to the second portion is in a closed position, and for detecting a non-presence of the magnet when the first portion with respect to the second portion is in an opened position. The transmitter transmits a wireless compliance signal indicative of the magnet sensor detecting at least one of the presence or the non-presence of the magnet.
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for personal tracking of hygiene compliance of a user. For example, a mobile device may host a tracking component (e.g., a personal hygiene compliance app deployed on a cell phone or tablet). The tracking component may be configured to establish a communication connection, such as a Bluetooth communication connect, with a hygiene device (e.g., a soap dispenser). The tracking component may generate either a hygiene compliance metric or a non-hygiene compliance metric based upon whether a dispense event notification, indicating compliance by the user with a hygiene opportunity, is received from the hygiene device. In this way, the user may personally track hygiene compliance information based upon automated communication signals shared between the mobile device and the hygiene device.
Hand sanitizers are provided with improved aesthetics and skin-conditioning effects, such that those subject to high frequency hand hygiene requirements are encouraged to comply with the requirements. In aspects, there is an effective healthcare personnel handwash composition that maintains or improves skin hydration. The composition comprises from 10 to 98 percent by weight (wt. %) of at least one C1-6 alcohol, based upon the total weight of the composition; from 0.001 to 8 wt. % of one or more of avenanthramides, trehalose, or combinations thereof, based upon the total weight of the composition; from 0.001 to 8 wt. % of at least one enzyme or coenzyme that aids in the formation of the stratum corneum, based upon the total weight of the composition; and at least one deposition enhancer selected from the group consisting of polyolprepolymer-2, polyolprepolymer-14, and polyolprepolymer-15. In other aspects, the composition is devoid of auxiliary antimicrobial agents.
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for personal tracking of hygiene compliance of a user. For example, a mobile device may host a tracking component (e.g., a personal hygiene compliance app deployed on a cell phone or tablet). The tracking component may be configured to establish a communication connection, such as a Bluetooth communication connect, with a hygiene device (e.g., a soap dispenser). The tracking component may generate either a hygiene compliance metric or a non-hygiene compliance metric based upon whether a dispense event notification, indicating compliance by the user with a hygiene opportunity, is received from the hygiene device. In this way, the user may personally track hygiene compliance information based upon automated communication signals shared between the mobile device and the hygiene device.
Exemplary embodiments of dispensers and refill units are disclosed herein. An exemplary refill unit for a soap, sanitizer or lotion includes a non-collapsing container. The non-collapsing container includes a neck. An annular projection is located at least partially on the neck. A one-way valve is located proximate the annular projection. The one-way valve allows air to flow into the non-collapsing container once the vacuum pressure in the container reaches the cracking pressure of the one-way valve and the one-way valve prevents liquid from flowing out of the annular projection. In addition, a pump for pumping the contents of the container out of the container is also included.
A dispensing system comprises a first electronic sensor and a controller. The first electronic sensor may be configured to detect a first change from a first amount of a fluid product in a dispensing system reservoir to a second amount of the fluid product in the dispensing system reservoir. The controller may be coupled to the first electronic sensor and configured to receive a first signal from the first electronic sensor indicative of the first change. The dispensing system reservoir may be disposed in the dispensing system. A method for determining a remaining service interval for a dispensing system reservoir is also provided.
A dispensing system comprising a first electronic sensor and a controller. The first electronic sensor may be configured to detect a first change from a first amount of a fluid product in a dispensing system reservoir to a second amount of the fluid product in the dispensing system reservoir. The controller may be coupled to the first electronic sensor and configured to receive a first signal from the first electronic sensor indicative of the first change. The dispensing system reservoir may be disposed in the dispensing system. A method for determining a remaining service interval for a dispensing system reservoir is also provided.
Compositions and methods for the disinfection of surfaces are provided. The compositions include at least about 40 weight percent of a C1-6 alcohol, and a primary enhancer selected from protein denaturants. The disinfectant composition is characterized by a pH of no more than about 2. Broad spectrum efficacy is achieved, and synergistic activity is exhibited against C. difficile spores.
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for evaluating dispenser functionality of a dispenser for dispensing a material. In an example, a non-loaded electrical characteristic and/or a loaded electrical characteristic of the dispenser may be measured and evaluated to determine whether to perform a dispense event. In another example, current measurements, such as peak current, may be measured during a dispense event. The current measurements may be evaluated to determine whether a problem exists, such as a mechanical stall, a gear train problem, an actuator problem, a pump problem (e.g., a clogged pump), a mechanical impedance, and/or other issue. Such information may be collected, stored as historical data, and/or used to determine whether to perform subsequent dispense events.
B05B 12/00 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area
B05B 12/08 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area responsive to condition of liquid or other fluent material discharged, of ambient medium or of target
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for providing power and/or communication to a device, such as a dispenser, a flush valve of a bathroom device, a hygiene opportunity measurement device, a hands free faucet, etc. For example, a mounting system comprises a mounting plate that may attach to a structure, such as a wall (104). The mounting plate may comprise a mounting connector that may be configured to mate with a device connector of the device to establish a connection (106). Power may be provided to the device through the connection (108). A communication may be provided for the device through the connection (110). For example, the device may send current device statuses, usage metrics, and/or other information to a remote source. The remote source may send instructions, data collection requests, functionality changes, and/or other information to the device.
A47K 5/12 - Dispensers for soap for liquid or pasty soap
H01R 11/03 - Individual connecting elements providing two or more spaced connecting locations for conductive members which are, or may be, thereby interconnected, e.g. end pieces for wires or cables supported by the wire or cable and having means for facilitating characterised by the type of the connecting locations on the individual element or by the type of the connections between the connecting locations and the conductive members
One or more techniques and/or systems are provided for providing power and/or communication to a device, such as a dispenser, a flush valve of a bathroom device, a hygiene opportunity measurement device, a hands free faucet, etc. for example, a mounting system comprises a mounting plate that may attach to a structure, such as a wall (104). The mounting plate may comprise a mounting connector that may be configured to mate with a device connector of the device to establish a connection (106). Power may be provided to the device through the connection (108). A communication may be provided for the device through the connection (110). For example, the device may send current device statuses, usage metrics, and/or other information to a remote source. The remote source may send instructions, data collection requests, functionality changes, and/or other information to the device.
H01R 33/00 - Coupling devices specially adapted for supporting apparatus and having one part acting as a holder providing support and electrical connection via a counterpart which is structurally associated with the apparatus, e.g. lamp holders; Separate parts thereof
A47K 5/12 - Dispensers for soap for liquid or pasty soap
H01H 83/02 - Protective switches, e.g. circuit-breaking switches, or protective relays operated by abnormal electrical conditions otherwise than solely by excess current operated by earth fault currents
H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
82.
FOAM-AT-A-DISTANCE SYSTEMS, FOAM GENERATORS AND REFILL UNITS
Exemplary foam-at-a-distance systems, refill units and foam generators are disclosed herein. An exemplary foam generator (124) includes a body having an inlet (206) for receiving air and an inlet for receiving liquid. The foam generator (124) includes a plurality of baffles (208, 209) located within the body. A plurality of elongated spaces (212) are formed at least in part by the baffles (208, 209). The elongated spaces (212) have a length that is greater than a width.
Exemplary embodiments of refill units having foam pumps and non-collapsing containers are disclosed herein. In some exemplary embodiments, the refill unit includes a non-collapsing container and a foam pump. The foam pump includes a compressible air chamber. The foam pump includes a passage between the interior of the compressible air chamber and the interior of the container. A regulating valve regulates flow of air from the interior of the compressible air chamber to the interior of the container.
Apparatuses and techniques are provided for dispensing fluid from a dispenser that includes a flexible membrane having different levels of pliability according to a voltage applied to the flexible membrane. According to some embodiments, a biasing device, such as a spring, is disposed on a first side of the flexible membrane and is configured to apply pressure to the flexible membrane. When a first voltage is applied to the flexible membrane, the flexible membrane becomes sufficiently pliable to enable the spring to flex the flexible membrane, pushing the flexible membrane into a pumping chamber disposed on the opposite side of the flexible membrane relative to the spring. The fluid is stored in the pumping chamber and the flexing of the flexible membrane causes the pumping chamber to compress. Such compression of the pumping chamber forces the pumping chamber to dispense the fluid through a pump outlet.
Exemplary embodiments of pumps, refill units and dispensers are disclosed herein. Some embodiments include a container (221) for holding a fluid and a pump housing (202) secured to the container (221). The pump housing (202) includes an annular collar for securing the pump housing (202) to the container (221). The pump housing (202) includes an air chamber (298) and a vent valve (294) located at least partially within the air chamber (298). One or more air passageways (290) are provided in the collar for providing air to the air chamber (298). A compressible liquid pump chamber (204) is also located in the housing (202). The exemplary embodiment includes a liquid inlet valve (226) for allowing liquid to flow from the container (221) into the compressible pump chamber (204); and a liquid outlet valve (264) located downstream of the pump chamber (204).
B05B 9/04 - Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquid or other fluent material without essentially mixing with gas or vapour characterised by means for supplying liquid or other fluent material with pump
A point-of-care hygiene compliance module includes a housing that is adapted to be attached to a dispensing container that dispenses material through a dispensing nozzle when actuated. The housing includes a pivoting actuation arm that is configured so as to be placed in operative contact with the dispensing nozzle. Thus, when the actuation arm is actuated, material is dispensed from the dispensing container, and a switch in operative contact with the actuation arm is actuated. The triggering of the switch updates a count value that is maintained by a controller, which may then be displayed or acquired by a remote computer to assess the amount of usage of the dispensing container.
ABSTRACT A foam dispenser comprises a carrier for holding a first container and a second container, each holding a respective first or second liquid; the first and second containers secured to and in fluid communication with a variable volume mixing chamber; a first pump chamber for pumping liquid from the first container to the variable volume mixing chamber and a second pump chamber for pumping the second liquid from the second container to the variable volume mixing chamber; an actuator for expanding and contracting the volume of the variable volume mixing chamber, where expanding or contracting the variable volume mixing chamber toward a first volume causes liquid from the containers to enter the mixing chamber, and where the liquids from the first and second containers mix together to form a mixture and that expands to form a foam; and an outlet nozzle for outputting the mixture as a foam. M4) ?Rile/Date Received 2021-02-24
A47K 5/12 - Dispensers for soap for liquid or pasty soap
B67D 7/06 - Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes - Details or accessories
B67D 7/74 - Devices for mixing two or more different liquids to be transferred
Exemplary embodiments of dispensing systems for dispensing mixtures of multiple liquids, refill units and pumps for such refill units and dispensers are disclosed herein. One refill unit includes a first container and a second container. The refill unit includes a first pump chamber that is associated with the first container and a second pump chamber that is associated with the second container. The first and second pump chambers include a liquid inlet valve and a liquid outlet valve. Expanding the first and second pump chambers draws liquid into the first and second pump chambers through the liquid inlet valves and compressing the first and second pump chambers forces liquid through the liquid outlet valves into a mixing chamber located downstream of the liquid outlet valves. The mixing chamber is formed at least in part by a flexible membrane. The refill unit also includes an outlet nozzle for dispensing the mixture.
Embodiments of lost motion foam pumps are disclosed herein. One exemplary embodiment includes a liquid chamber (270), a liquid piston (122) movable in the liquid chamber (270), an air chamber (272) and an air piston (124) movable in the air chamber (272). The air piston (124) is linked to the liquid piston (122). A connector (114) is linked to the air piston (124) or the liquid piston (122). The connector (114) includes an engagement member for connecting to an actuator (204) of a foam dispenser. Movement of the actuator (204) in a first direction moves the liquid and air pistons (122, 124) to contract the liquid chamber (270) and the air chamber (272). Movement of the actuator (204) a first distance in a second direction does not move the liquid piston (122) or the air piston (124); however, continued movement of the actuator (204) a second distance in the second direction moves the liquid piston (122) and the air piston (124) and expands the liquid and air chambers (270,272).
B05B 11/10 - Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
B05B 7/00 - Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
F04B 53/14 - Pistons, piston-rods or piston-rod connections
90.
FOAM PUMPS WITH LOST MOTION AND ADJUSTABLE OUTPUT FOAM PUMPS
ABSTRACT A foam pump comprises a liquid piston for a liquid pump; an air piston for an air pump linked to the liquid pump; and a connector for linking the liquid and air pistons to an actuator. When installed in a foam dispenser, the stroke of the actuator is greater than the stroke of the liquid piston and the air piston. 14 Date Recue/Date Received 2021-01-05
Exemplary embodiments of dispensers are disclosed herein. One exemplary dispenser is a soap or sanitizer dispenser. The dispenser includes a housing (102). A removable and replaceable concentrate container (302, 902) for holding concentrated soap or sanitizer is located within the housing (102). A concentrate pump (316) is in fluid communication with the concentrate container (302, 902). A diluent container for holding a liquid is also located within the housing (102) and a diluent pump (382, 901) for pumping the diluent is also included. The dispenser includes a mixing chamber (338) in fluid communication with the concentrate pump (316) and the diluent pump (382, 901). The dispenser includes an outlet. When concentrated soap or sanitizer is pumped from the concentrate container (302, 902), it mixes with diluent pumped from the diluent container to form a diluted mixture. The diluted mixture is dispensed at the outlet (350) of the dispenser.
B05B 7/24 - Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
E03C 1/046 - Adding soap, disinfectant, or the like, in the supply line
One embodiment for dispensers for dispensing wet wipes includes a container, a plurality of wet wipes contained within the container and a dispensing nozzle made of a resilient material secured to the container. The dispensing nozzle includes an outlet opening in the nozzle. A fluid retaining member is located at a point below the opening. Another embodiment includes a container for holding a plurality of wipes. A dispensing nozzle includes a resilient member having an outlet opening is secured to the container. A fluid retaining member is located below the outlet. In one embodiment, the fluid retaining member has a surface that is sloped. Embodiments of dispensing nozzles for wet wipes are also disclosed wherein the dispensing nozzle includes a resilient dome shaped member having an opening located therein. In addition, the dispensing nozzle includes an annular fluid retaining member. The annular fluid retaining member may have a sloped surface.
A foam pump (120) including a housing (250) and a piston (220) that reciprocates within the housing is disclosed herein. The piston has a hollow portion (232) and an orifice (230) through the wall of the piston. A first seal (228) located proximate the upper end of the piston provides a seal between the piston and the housing. A liquid inlet (280) is located in the side wall of the housing at a point lower than the top of the piston. A one-way liquid inlet valve (282) is located proximate the liquid inlet and a one-way liquid outlet valve (234) is located prior to the liquid outlet (242). A charge chamber (270) is defined at least in part by the liquid inlet valve, the liquid outlet valve, a wall of the piston and a wall of the housing.
A dispenser for dispensing a diluted form of a concentrated product includes: a supply of concentrated product; a dilution chamber; an actuation assembly and a product pump mechanism having a water staging chamber. The actuation assembly receives water under pressure from a pressurized water supply. In a staging state, water from the pressurized water supply is fed to the water staging chamber, increasing the volume thereof and causing the actuating of the pump mechanism thereby driving a dose of product into the dilution chamber. In a return state, (a) water within the water staging chamber exits the water staging chamber, (b) water is advanced to the dilution chamber and mixes with the dose of product to create diluted product, and (c) a dose of concentrated product is drawn from the supply of concentrated product into the product pump mechanism.
Antimicrobial and foamable alcoholic compositions, where the compositions include at least about 40 wt. % of a C1-4 alcohol and one or more silane surfactants selected from (1) zwitterionic silane surfactants, (2) polyalkoxylated silane surfactants that contain at least one silane group and at least one polyalkylene oxide chain.
A01N 25/30 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of application; Substances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests characterised by the surfactants
A01P 1/00 - Disinfectants; Antimicrobial compounds or mixtures thereof
A dispensing system includes a housing and a refill container carrying a dispensable material and received in the housing. A pump mechanism is coupled to the refill container and movable from a first position to a second position and back to the first position. An identifier is carried by either the refill container or the pump mechanism, and a detection device is carried by the housing. The detection device monitors a status of the identifier and allows operation of the pump mechanism based on a status change of the identifier.
A system and related method is disclosed for resetting a stalled pump in a fluid dispensing system. In one embodiment, the presence of a user's hand is detected to start a pump actuator associated with a refill container. A controller associated with a motor actuates the pump actuator by rotating a motor shaft in a first direction. The current sensor is monitored and when the current sensor detects a predetermined level of current the motor shaft is reversed to a starting position.
A shut-off system for a dispenser (10) includes a pinch member (70) that moves relative to a guide (60) and which is normally biased against a flexible outlet tube (56) that is disposed therebetween. The flexible outlet tube (56) that carries material, such as soap, supplied from a pump (53) to an outlet nozzle (54). The pump (53) and the pinch member (70) are in operative engagement with an actuator (58), such that when the actuator (58) is not engaged, the pinch member (70) closes the outlet tube (56) to prevent residual material retained in the outlet tube from flowing or drooling out of the outlet nozzle (54). Correspondingly, when the actuator (58) is engaged, the pump (53) is compressed, and the pinch member (70) is moved away from the outlet tube (56), allowing the material to be pumped through the outlet tube (56) and dispensed from the outlet nozzle (54).
ABSTRACT A shut-off system for a dispenser (10) includes a pinch member (70) that moves relative to a guide (60) and which is normally biased against a flexible outlet tube (56) that is disposed therebetween. The flexible outlet tube (56) that carries material, such as soap, supplied from a pump (53) to an outlet nozzle (54). The pump (53) and the pinch member (70) are in operative engagement with an actuator (58), such that when the actuator (58) is not engaged, the pinch member (70) closes the outlet tube (56) to prevent residual material retained in the outlet tube from flowing or drooling out of the outlet nozzle (54). Correspondingly, when the actuator (58) is engaged, the pump (53) is compressed, and the pinch member (70) is moved away from the outlet tube (56), allowing the material to be pumped through the outlet tube (56) and dispensed from the outlet nozzle (54). Date Recue/Date Received 2020-08-17
A dispenser use monitor provides a housing configured to be removably attached to a portable dispenser, such as a soap dispenser. The housing includes a controller that stores one or more reference ID codes that match the tag ID codes associated with each of one or more data tags. The data tags are used to identify predetermined areas in which the portable dispenser is to be used. Thus, as the use monitor is brought into proximity with each data tag, indicating that the portable dispenser has been used in the associated area, the use monitor validates the reference ID codes if it matches the tag ID code of the particular data tag. In addition, an indicator displays the remaining number of reference ID codes that have not been validated, thereby providing a reminder to the user of the portable dispenser of the progress of their job completion.
G07C 3/00 - Registering or indicating the condition or the working of machines or other apparatus, other than vehicles
G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
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