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EP1978168B1 - Cleaning liquid dispenser with multiple compartments for toilet bowls - Google Patents

Cleaning liquid dispenser with multiple compartments for toilet bowls Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1978168B1
EP1978168B1 EP20080006259 EP08006259A EP1978168B1 EP 1978168 B1 EP1978168 B1 EP 1978168B1 EP 20080006259 EP20080006259 EP 20080006259 EP 08006259 A EP08006259 A EP 08006259A EP 1978168 B1 EP1978168 B1 EP 1978168B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
dispenser
compartments
tube
compartment
container
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Not-in-force
Application number
EP20080006259
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1978168A1 (en
Inventor
Jean Klimis
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Eurvest SA
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Eurvest SA
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Filing date
Publication date
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Publication of EP1978168A1 publication Critical patent/EP1978168A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1978168B1 publication Critical patent/EP1978168B1/en
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Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
    • E03D9/00—Sanitary or other accessories for lavatories ; Devices for cleaning or disinfecting the toilet room or the toilet bowl; Devices for eliminating smells
    • E03D9/02—Devices adding a disinfecting, deodorising, or cleaning agent to the water while flushing
    • E03D9/03—Devices adding a disinfecting, deodorising, or cleaning agent to the water while flushing consisting of a separate container with an outlet through which the agent is introduced into the flushing water, e.g. by suction ; Devices for agents in direct contact with flushing water
    • E03D9/032—Devices connected to or dispensing into the bowl
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
    • E03D9/00—Sanitary or other accessories for lavatories ; Devices for cleaning or disinfecting the toilet room or the toilet bowl; Devices for eliminating smells
    • E03D9/007—Devices for eliminating smells by diffusing deodorants in lavatories

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a dispenser for cleaning liquids for toilet bowls, and more specifically to a multi-compartment liquid dispenser for toilets.
  • the dispenser of the invention can be used in toilet bowls and provides a distribution of maintenance fluids.
  • EP-A-1,287,211 discloses a toilet bowl care liquid dispenser. This distributor clings into the bowl by means of attachment and has a reservoir of maintenance liquid. For the distribution of the liquid, the tank has in its lower part a free opening of a size which prevents the flow of the maintenance liquid out of the tank in the absence of flush.
  • the tank is also provided with a tube, at one end of which opens the opening; the other end of the tube is open. The flow of water from the flush at the end of the tube or around the end of the tube causes the distribution of the liquid contained in the tank, by hydrodynamic effect.
  • WO-A-02 40791 and WO-A-02 40792 describe devices for dispensing cleaning liquids for toilet bowls. These devices have two separate compartments. The use of two separate compartments avoids the problems that can be generated by two-component mixtures in a single tank. These documents mention in particular a component against scale and a component such as bleach. The distributors proposed in these documents have two separate compartments or separate tanks, as well as two separate dispensing systems, for the distribution in the toilet bowl of the products contained in the two compartments. The devices described in these documents pose a first problem of complexity of the distribution device. There is also a second problem of adjusting the relative quantities of distributed products.
  • the distributor provides only one of the two functions.
  • the distribution of the different products contained in the tanks depends on the difference in viscosity between the liquids contained in the tanks.
  • the patent WO 02/40792 discloses a dispenser with all the features of the preamble of claim 1 and describes an approach to limit the asymmetric distribution caused by the difference in viscosity between liquids by a pressure equalization system in the free spaces above the liquid level . This is a complicated technical approach requiring additional interconnected air lines passing through the liquid in the tanks. In addition, this approach does not always result in an adequate adjustment of the relative quantities of distributed products.
  • the invention in its various embodiments, proposes a solution to one or the other of these problems, or both problems. It proposes a distribution system activated by flushing and where the distribution of the quantity of the different liquids is synchronized despite a difference in viscosity between the liquids of the tanks.
  • the invention proposes, in a device with multiple compartments, to use for the distribution of the liquid the solution described in the application EP-A-1,287,211
  • the dispenser therefore has a reservoir of cleaning liquids, with several compartments.
  • Each compartment is connected, via its lower part, to a free opening of a size that prevents the flow of maintenance liquid out of the tank in the absence of flushing.
  • the device further has a tube. At one end of the tube opens the openings of the compartments. The other end of the tube is open. In other words, the tube is common to the different compartments.
  • the distribution of the different liquids is carried out according to the hydrodynamic principle described below, when the water of the flush flows around the tube and, if necessary, goes up in the tube.
  • the overpressure created by the flow of water is identical for each of the compartments. This ensures the distribution of an identical amount of liquid from each of the compartments of the device, regardless of the position of the dispenser in the bowl and the way the water flows around the dispenser.
  • each of the compartments of the tank is provided in its lower part with an opening, which has a dimension such that it prevents the flow of liquid from the compartment in the absence of external stress.
  • the term "lower part” the part of the compartment in which the liquid is located when the dispenser is in position in the toilet bowl. This opening is free, in that it is not blocked by a plug, unlike that proposed in US-A-3,946,448 or by a device permeable to the liquid, such as a porous mass.
  • a common tube Below the openings of the compartments, in the direction of use of the dispenser, is provided a common tube.
  • the lower end of the tube is open or free, unlike the solution proposed in WO-A-01 02653 ; this avoids the difficulty of adjustment encountered in the device of this document.
  • the lower end of the tube is arranged so as to be in the path of the water flowing during a flush, taking into account where appropriate a guiding device.
  • the flow of water from the flush near the end of the tube causes the hydrodynamic effect of the suction of a given amount of the maintenance liquids out of the tank.
  • the different compartments are subjected to the same overpressure, because of the common tube, it is possible to adjust with great precision the distribution of the different liquids. Indeed, it is perfectly possible to adjust the amount of liquid dispensed by flushing by adapting the size of the openings. In addition, it is also possible to adjust the relative distribution speed of the liquids by adapting the size of each of the openings according to the rheological characteristics of the liquid contained in the corresponding compartment. In summary we can play on the size of the opening, the viscosity of the liquid or both to settle the quantity of liquid distributed by flush.
  • liquids dispensed are simply referred to as “maintenance liquids”; the terms “first liquid” or “second liquid” are used for the sole purpose of distinguishing between the different liquids.
  • first liquid or “second liquid” are used for the sole purpose of distinguishing between the different liquids.
  • FIGS. 1 to 3 show a first embodiment of a dispenser according to the invention with schematic views in frontal section and in side section and with a view from below.
  • the figure 1 shows a front sectional view of the dispenser of the figure 1 , the tank not being assembled to the dispenser.
  • the compartments 6 and 8 of the tank are separate from each other, which allows to change one or other of the compartments of the tank.
  • the compartments 6 and 8 can be twinned by means of a connecting piece fitting on the necks of the compartments.
  • the necks 26 and 28 of the compartments are closed by separate collars 40 and 42, each with a cover 44 and 46.
  • the figure 2 shows the body 2 of the dispenser, and one of the compartments of the tank 4. In the figure is shown only the body 2 of the dispenser, without the attachment means on the edge of the bowl. These can adapt in an adjustable or non-adjustable manner in an opening 10 formed on the body 2.
  • the body of the dispenser has a tube 12, with in its lower part a cutout 14, extending over a part of the perimeter of the tube. This cutting makes it possible to promote the rise of water in the tube 12, or vice versa, as a function of the position of the cut with respect to the direction of the flow of water coming from the flush.
  • the lower part of the tube is free, that is to say that it is not blocked by a porous device or other. The water of the hunt can go up in the tube.
  • the dispenser further has a guiding device 16, which in an exemplary embodiment has the form of a plate with curved edges.
  • the figure 8 shows a possible embodiment of such a guide device in perspective.
  • This guiding device makes it possible to guide the water from the flush to the tube, so as to promote the hydrodynamic effect leading to the distribution of maintenance liquids.
  • the curved edges improve the water guidance and the performance as the regularity of the distribution.
  • the guiding device 16 comprises water baffles 17, for example vertical walls arranged in the corners of the guide device 16. These walls 17 are provided in the vertical continuity of the guide tube 12 and thus allow channeling the flushing water to the tube 12.
  • the tube has an elongated shape and has in its upper part beveled areas 18 and 19, adapted to perforate a protective cover openings in the compartments of the reservoir.
  • the upper part of the tube is closed and has two openings 20 and 22 visible on the figure 1 .
  • these two openings are in contact with the liquids contained in the compartments of the tank.
  • Each of the openings has a size adapted to prevent the flow of the corresponding maintenance liquid out of the compartment in the absence of flushing.
  • Each of the openings 20 and 22 is disposed in a cylindrical portion 48 and 50 adapted to the shape of the neck of one of the compartments. Between the two cylindrical portions 48 and 50, the tube has a central portion 52. In this way, as shown in FIG. figure 1 in operation, the opening 20 (respectively 22) is in contact with the liquid contained in the compartment 6 (respectively 8).
  • the figure 3 shows a partial bottom view of the dispenser tank of figures 1 and 2 ; the two compartments 6 and 8 and the limits of the necks 26 and 28 are recognized. The locations of the openings 20 and 22 are also shown and the dashed line in the figure shows a possible shape of the tube 12.
  • the figure 4 is a front view of a second embodiment of the dispenser of the invention, the tank being assembled to the dispenser. This embodiment is similar to that of the figure 1 with the central portion 52 which is at the level of the plane of the openings 20 and 22. In this case the two cylindrical portions 48 and 50 are completely integrated in the assembly of the compression tube 12.
  • the reservoir is formed of two compartments 6 and 8 which are assembled, at their respective necks 26 and 28, with a collar 30.
  • This collar allows both to ensure the mechanical cohesion between the two compartments forming the reservoir.
  • the collar 30 has a seal 32 sealed on the respective openings of the compartments; the seal thus ensures the closure of the compartments before the reservoir is introduced into the dispenser.
  • the tank is removable, so as to allow the replacement of the tank; one could also provide a monoblock tank with the body of the dispenser.
  • the figure 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment, which may be applicable to different embodiments of the dispenser according to the invention.
  • the openings 20 and 22 are not centered on the necks of the compartments 26, 28, but are close to each other. This ensures a better equality of pressures at the openings and therefore a similar distribution of liquids.
  • the dashed line in the figure shows a possible shape of the tube 12 and the double line shows the edges of the collar 30.
  • the tube is in the central position relative to the necks of the bottles. This results in a tube of a smaller size, which facilitates the rise of the water flush in the tube and increases the pressure during flushing.
  • the tube 12 may have vertical walls, as illustrated in FIG. figure 3 , with openings 20 and 22 off-center necks and moved closer to each other.
  • the guiding device is formed of two plates 16 'and 16 "which are gathered in the vicinity of the free end of the tube 12.
  • a rib 54 may be provided at the level of the gathering area of the plates 16 16 "and extends substantially along a median axis between the two openings 20, 22 of the compartments 6, 8. This rib 54 has a limited height of a few millimeters; it does not prevent the flushing water from being distributed in the tube 12 to each opening 20, 22 but it limits the mixing of the liquids of each compartment at the guiding device.
  • one compartment may contain a tartar liquid having a low pH and the other compartment may contain a disinfectant liquid having a high pH.
  • a mixture of such liquids must not only be avoided in the compartments but also during distribution because such a mixture at high concentration produces harmful chlorine gases to breathe. When these liquids mix in the water of the hunt, the concentration decreases and the harmful effects disappear. It is understood that this embodiment of the guiding device can be combined with any of the embodiments described above as to the arrangement of the tube and compartments.
  • the Figures 12 to 14 illustrate a fifth embodiment of the invention wherein the dispenser further comprises a third compartment 7.
  • This third compartment 7 is not connected with a free opening opening in the tube 12 as the compartments 6, 8 of the reservoir but present at least one zone covered by a semipermeable membrane.
  • the third compartment is made of plastic and has a portion consisting of a semi-permeable membrane for the continuous diffusion of active substances, for example perfumes.
  • This third compartment 7 can be fixed to the body 2 of the dispenser ( figure 12 ) or the attachment means 11 of the body on the edge of the bowl ( figure 13 ) and thus be located outside the toilet bowl, or be attached to one of the compartments 6, 8 of the liquid reservoir to be dispensed during flushing ( figure 14 ).
  • the third reservoir 7 contains a perfume in liquid form and can be housed in a cavity in one of the compartments 6, 8 of the reservoir as shown in FIG. figure 14 .
  • the operation of the dispenser is as follows.
  • the tank On delivery, the tank is separated from the dispenser, as shown in figure 1 and at the figure 5 .
  • the user pushes the reservoir into the dispenser, as shown in figure 4 .
  • the bevelled zone 18 tears the lid of the reservoir, at the collar 40 of the compartment 6 and the bevelled zone 19 tears the lid of the reservoir at the level of the collar 42 of the compartment 8.
  • the cylindrical portions 48 and 50 in which the openings 20 and 22 are formed are then respectively applied against the collars 40 and 42 of the compartments of the reservoir. In this way, the openings 20 and 22 are respectively in contact with the liquids contained in the compartments.
  • the central portion 52 extends lower in the tube 12 than the openings 20 and 22, to provide around the cylindrical portions 48 and 50 an area allowing the passage of the necks of the compartments 6 and 8.
  • the central portion 52 extends inside the tube 12 higher than the maximum level of the flush water; in particular, the central portion 52 is above the cutout 14 in the tube 12. In this way, during a flush, the overpressure at the opening 20 is always equal to the overpressure at the level of the opening 22.
  • the bevelled zone 18 tears the seal of the reservoir, at the neck 26 of the compartment 6; the bevelled zone 19 tears the seal of the reservoir at the neck 28 of the compartment 8.
  • the surface 34 in which the openings 20 and 22 are formed then comes to bear against the necks 26 and 28 of the compartments of the reservoir. In this way, the openings 20 and 22 are respectively in contact with the liquids contained in the compartments. Ribs 36 and 38 on the side of the tank-facing surface 34 prevent any mixing between the liquids.
  • the configuration of the dispenser thus makes it possible to provide a removable reservoir, while ensuring that the openings 20 and 22 are brought into contact with the liquids contained in the compartments of the reservoir, without mixing the liquids of the compartments. As indicated above, this advantageous solution is not the only one possible.
  • the bevelled zone 18 tears the seal of the reservoir at the collar 40 of the compartment 6 and the bevelled zone 19 tears the seal of the reservoir at the collar 42 of the compartment 8.
  • the openings 20 and 22 are respectively in contact with the liquids contained in the compartments.
  • the guiding device comprises two plates 16 ', 16 "which guide the flushing water in the single tube 12 but separate the flow of each liquid to the bowl. , the overpressure prevailing at the level of the opening 20 will always be equal to the overpressure prevailing at the level of the opening 22 for an equal quantity distribution of the liquids of each compartment but these liquids will be mixed only in the bowl to avoid chemical reactions harmful to the user.
  • the dispenser is mounted in the toilet bowl.
  • the free end of the tube is in the vicinity of the path of the water flush, or even in the path of water.
  • the openings 20 and 22 prevent any flow of liquids out of the compartments 6 and 8.
  • the flow of water during the flush therefore causes an overpressure in the tube and the injection of water. air in the compartments through the openings 20 and 22.
  • the pressure in the tube decreases and the pressure created by the injection of air into the compartments causes the flow of liquids out of the compartments. This ensures the distribution of a certain amount of liquid at the end of each hunt.
  • the pressure in the tube is the same for both compartments. This ensures the same action of a hunt on both compartments, as explained above.
  • the shape of the tube 12 can be any; in the example, an elongate section has been chosen for the tube; this ensures that the tube has a maximum internal volume, for a given perimeter; this shape is also well adapted to circular openings in the necks or necklaces of the compartments.
  • the section of the openings 20 and 22 has a diameter of 1.5 mm in the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 3 , for a maintenance liquid having a viscosity of the order of 2000 mPa.s. More generally, the maintenance liquid may have a viscosity of between 10 and 4000 mPa.s, and the opening may have a diameter of between 0.2 and 15 mm.
  • the diameter or area of the opening can be determined experimentally for a given maintenance liquid. Even greater viscosities are possible, values between 2500 and 5000 mPa.s, and up to 6000 mPa.s are appropriate.
  • the diameter of the opening can then be chosen between 1.2 and 1.8 mm.
  • the invention avoids a constant flow of the maintenance liquid, and a loss of liquid in the absence of use of the toilet. It is also understood that the invention avoids the upwelling in the tank, and the dilution of the maintenance liquid. Furthermore, the device of the invention is immediately functional, unlike devices with a porous mass: from the first flush, or the second, a specific amount of maintenance liquid is distributed. The amount of maintenance fluid dispensed is independent of how often the dispenser is used.
  • the maintenance liquid may have a lower viscosity than in the distributors of the state of the art. This prevents blocking of the dispenser by thickeners, and improves its reliability.
  • the liquid of one compartment is dispensed faster than the liquid of the other compartment, by providing a larger opening or a larger number of openings.
  • the ratio between the quantities of liquids coming from the different compartments is always identical.
  • the Figures 15 to 18 show results of experiments on these multi-compartment distributors.
  • the abscissa has a number of hunts and ordinate the loss of liquid, ie the percentage of liquid dispensed by the distributor.
  • the figure 15 shows the experience results for a distributor with two compartments and two separate dispensing systems; each of the dispensing devices is of the kind described in the document EP-A-1,287,211 . Both liquids have viscosities of 3160 and 2650 cP. The distribution systems are identical. After about 500 hunts, the second compartment has emptied 80%, while the first compartment is emptied at 10%. The results of the test are explained by both the position of the dispenser and the difference in viscosity
  • the figure 16 shows the results of experiment for a distributor with two compartments identical to that used in the experiment of the figure 15 ; unlike the figure 15 both liquids have an identical viscosity of 5188 cP.
  • the first compartment is empty, while the second compartment is emptied at 25% after more than 600 hunts.
  • the results of the test are explained by the position of the dispenser, the distribution system of the first compartment being in the flow of the water of the hunt, while the distribution system of the second compartment is masked and receives only one flow weaker.
  • the figure 17 shows the results of experiment for a distributor with two compartments, of the kind represented in the figure 4 or 5 with water deflectors of the kind shown in figure 9 . Both liquids have an identical viscosity of 2700 cP. The figure shows that the two compartments empty simultaneously.
  • the figure 18 shows the results of experiment for a distributor with two compartments, of the kind represented in the figure 4 or 5 with water deflectors of the kind shown in figure 9 . Both liquids have viscosities of 2935 and 188 cP. The figure shows that both compartments empty simultaneously despite the difference in viscosity.
  • the dispensing tube could have another shape than that given in the exemplary embodiments.
  • the tube of the invention may have a section different from that which is proposed; for example, a square section may be used, the tube being simply formed of four walls which surround the opening provided in the lower part of the tank.
  • the length of the tube may vary from the embodiments, and it may well be smaller than the section.
  • the section of the tube can also cover the entire surface of the dispenser; one could in this case call the tube "skirt" or "compartment".
  • devices with two compartments have been described. More than two compartments can be provided. In this case, it is possible to use a tube common to all the compartments; this ensures the distribution of the same proportion of all products. Tubes common to only some of the compartments may also be used, since it is useful to control the relative distribution of only some of the liquids.
  • the invention is described in its preferred application to the distribution of maintenance liquids in the toilet bowl; it can also be applied to the distribution of liquids of another nature in an environment with a flow of fluid.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Bidet-Like Cleaning Device And Other Flush Toilet Accessories (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un distributeur de liquides d'entretien pour cuvettes de toilettes, et plus spécifiquement un distributeur de liquides à compartiments multiples pour toilettes. Le distributeur de l'invention peut s'utiliser dans les cuvettes de toilettes et assure une distribution de liquides d'entretien.The present invention relates to a dispenser for cleaning liquids for toilet bowls, and more specifically to a multi-compartment liquid dispenser for toilets. The dispenser of the invention can be used in toilet bowls and provides a distribution of maintenance fluids.

Diverses solutions ont été proposées pour distribuer dans les cuvettes de toilettes des produits nettoyants ou parfumants. Ainsi, sont vendus des blocs destinés à être disposés dans les chasses d'eau. Les blocs fondent lentement et diffusent un produit nettoyant. Un tel produit peut satisfaire pour ce qui est du nettoyage, mais il ne permet pas de diffuser un parfum. Il est aussi connu d'accrocher sur le rebord des toilettes une cage, contenant un bloc de produit qui est lavé par l'eau s'écoulant de la chasse d'eau lorsque celle-ci est actionnée. Un tel bloc de produit, qui est à l'air libre, ne peut avoir d'effet parfumant pendant toute sa durée de vie. Dans un cas comme dans l'autre, le problème provient du fait que les produits parfumants sont volatils, et perdent leur effet parfumant lorsqu'ils sont exposés à l'air et que la quantité de produit qu'ils libèrent à chaque chasse diminue au fur et à mesure que le bloc diminue de volume.Various solutions have been proposed for distributing cleaning or perfuming products in the toilet bowls. Thus, are sold blocks intended to be arranged in flushing water. The blocks melt slowly and diffuse a cleaning product. Such a product can satisfy in terms of cleaning, but it does not allow to diffuse a perfume. It is also known to hang on the edge of the toilet a cage, containing a block of product that is washed by the water flowing from the flush when it is actuated. Such a block of product, which is in the open air, can have no scenting effect throughout its life. In both cases, the problem arises from the fact that perfuming products are volatile, and lose their perfuming effect when exposed to the air and that the quantity of product that they release at each hunt decreases at as the block decreases in volume.

EP-A-1 287 211 décrit un distributeur de liquide d'entretien pour cuvette de toilettes. Ce distributeur s'accroche dans la cuvette par des moyens d'accrochage et présente un réservoir de liquide d'entretien. Pour la distribution du liquide, le réservoir présente dans sa partie inférieure une ouverture libre d'une taille qui empêche l'écoulement du liquide d'entretien hors du réservoir en l'absence de chasse d'eau. Le réservoir est aussi muni d'un tube, à une extrémité duquel débouche l'ouverture; l'autre extrémité du tube est ouverte. L'écoulement de l'eau de la chasse à l'extrémité du tube ou autour de l'extrémité du tube provoque la distribution du liquide contenu dans le réservoir, par effet hydrodynamique. EP-A-1,287,211 discloses a toilet bowl care liquid dispenser. This distributor clings into the bowl by means of attachment and has a reservoir of maintenance liquid. For the distribution of the liquid, the tank has in its lower part a free opening of a size which prevents the flow of the maintenance liquid out of the tank in the absence of flush. The tank is also provided with a tube, at one end of which opens the opening; the other end of the tube is open. The flow of water from the flush at the end of the tube or around the end of the tube causes the distribution of the liquid contained in the tank, by hydrodynamic effect.

US-A-3 946 448 (El Sioufy ), EP-A-0 538 957 (Sara Lee ), EP-A-0 785 315 (Sara Lee ), FR-A-2 747 139 (Robertet ) et WO-A-01 02653 (Globol Chemicals) décrivent différents types de distributeurs de liquide d'entretien pour cuvettes de toilettes. US-A-3,946,448 (El Sioufy ) EP-A-0 538 957 (Sara Lee ) EP-A-0 785 315 (Sara Lee ) FR-A-2,747,139 (Robertet ) and WO-A-01 02653 (Globol Chemicals) describe different types of toilet bowl liquid dispensers.

WO-A-02 40791 et WO-A-02 40792 décrivent des dispositifs de distribution de liquides d'entretien pour cuvettes de toilettes. Ces dispositifs présentent deux compartiments séparés. L'utilisation de deux compartiments séparés permet d'éviter les problèmes que peuvent générer les mélanges de deux composants dans un réservoir unique. Ces documents mentionnent notamment un composant à effet contre le tartre et un composant tel que l'eau de Javel. Les distributeurs proposés dans ces documents présentent deux compartiments séparés ou réservoirs séparés, ainsi que deux systèmes de distribution distincts, pour la distribution dans la cuvette des toilettes des produits contenus dans les deux compartiments. Les dispositifs décrits dans ces documents posent un premier problème de complexité du dispositif de distribution. Il existe aussi un deuxième problème de réglage des quantités relatives de produits distribués. En effet, il n'est pas approprié, du point de vue de l'utilisateur, que le produit contenu dans l'un des compartiments soit épuisé avant que le produit contenu dans l'autre compartiment ne soit aussi épuisé. Dans un tel cas, le distributeur ne fournit plus qu'une seule des deux fonctions. Or, dans ces dispositifs de l'état de la technique, la distribution des différents produits contenus dans les réservoirs dépend de la différence de viscosité entre les liquides contenus dans les réservoirs. WO-A-02 40791 and WO-A-02 40792 describe devices for dispensing cleaning liquids for toilet bowls. These devices have two separate compartments. The use of two separate compartments avoids the problems that can be generated by two-component mixtures in a single tank. These documents mention in particular a component against scale and a component such as bleach. The distributors proposed in these documents have two separate compartments or separate tanks, as well as two separate dispensing systems, for the distribution in the toilet bowl of the products contained in the two compartments. The devices described in these documents pose a first problem of complexity of the distribution device. There is also a second problem of adjusting the relative quantities of distributed products. It is not appropriate, from the point of view of the user, for the product contained in one of the compartments to be exhausted before the product contained in the other compartment is also exhausted. In such a case, the distributor provides only one of the two functions. However, in these devices of the state of the art, the distribution of the different products contained in the tanks depends on the difference in viscosity between the liquids contained in the tanks.

Le brevet WO 02/40792 divulgue un distributeur avec toutes les caractéristiques du préambule de la revendication 1 et décrit une approche afin de limiter la distribution asymétrique causé par la différence de viscosité entre les liquides par un système d'équilibrage de pression dans les espaces libre au dessus du niveau des liquides. C'est une approche technique compliquée nécessitant des conduites d'air supplémentaires interconnectées traversant le liquide dans les réservoirs. En outre cette approche n'aboutit pas toujours à un réglage adéquat des quantités relatives de produits distribués.The patent WO 02/40792 discloses a dispenser with all the features of the preamble of claim 1 and describes an approach to limit the asymmetric distribution caused by the difference in viscosity between liquids by a pressure equalization system in the free spaces above the liquid level . This is a complicated technical approach requiring additional interconnected air lines passing through the liquid in the tanks. In addition, this approach does not always result in an adequate adjustment of the relative quantities of distributed products.

L'invention, dans ses différents modes de réalisation, propose une solution à l'un ou à l'autre de ces problèmes, voire aux deux problèmes. Elle propose un système de distribution activée par chasse et où la distribution de la quantité des différents liquides est synchronisée malgré une différence de viscosité entre les liquides des réservoirs.The invention, in its various embodiments, proposes a solution to one or the other of these problems, or both problems. It proposes a distribution system activated by flushing and where the distribution of the quantity of the different liquids is synchronized despite a difference in viscosity between the liquids of the tanks.

L'invention propose plus particulièrement un distributeur de liquide d'entretien pour cuvette de toilettes, comprenant :

  • un corps adapté à s'accrocher sur la cuvette,
  • un réservoir de liquides d'entretien présentant au moins deux compartiments, chaque compartiment étant, via sa partie inférieure, connecté avec une ouverture libre d'une taille qui empêche l'écoulement du liquide d'entretien hors dudit compartiment en l'absence de chasse d'eau,
  • un tube à une extrémité duquel débouchent les ouvertures des compartiments, l'autre extrémité du tube étant ouverte.
The invention more particularly proposes a dispenser for cleaning liquid for a toilet bowl, comprising:
  • a body adapted to catch on the bowl,
  • a reservoir of maintenance liquids having at least two compartments, each compartment being, via its lower part, connected with a free opening of a size which prevents the flow of the maintenance liquid out of said compartment in the absence of hunting of water,
  • a tube at one end of which open the openings of the compartments, the other end of the tube being open.

Selon les modes de réalisation, le distributeur de l'invention peut comprendre en outre une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes :

  • le distributeur est conformé pour disposer l'extrémité ouverte du tube dans le trajet de l'eau de la chasse lorsque le distributeur est accroché sur une cuvette ;
  • un dispositif de guidage au voisinage de l'extrémité ouverte du tube ; ce dispositif de guidage peut comprendre une plaque ou deux plaques qui se rassemblent au voisinage de l'extrémité ouverte du tube ; le dispositif de guidage peut comprendre une nervure s'étendant sur la zone de rassemblement des plaques sensiblement selon un axe médian entre les ouvertures des compartiments ;
  • le dispositif de guidage présente des bords incurvés ;
  • le dispositif de guidage présente des parois adaptées à canaliser l'eau de chasse vers le tube ;
  • l'ouverture est d'une taille qui permet l'aspiration du liquide d'entretien par effet hydrodynamique lors du passage de l'eau d'une chasse au voisinage du distributeur ;
  • le réservoir est amovible par rapport au corps ;
  • le réservoir présente deux compartiments séparément amovibles par rapport au corps ;
  • les compartiments font intégralement part d'un réservoir ;
  • les compartiments du réservoir sont jumelés par une pièce de liaison ;
  • au moins un troisième compartiment présentant au moins une zone couverte par une membrane semi-perméable ; ce troisième compartiment est fixé sur le corps du distributeur, ou sur un moyen d'accrochage du corps à la cuvette de toilettes, ou sur un des compartiments du réservoir de liquides d'entretien.
According to the embodiments, the dispenser of the invention may further comprise one or more of the following features:
  • the dispenser is shaped to arrange the open end of the tube in the water path of the flush when the dispenser is hooked on a bowl;
  • a guide device in the vicinity of the open end of the tube; this guide device may comprise a plate or two plates which gather in the vicinity of the open end of the tube; the guiding device may comprise a rib extending over the area where the plates meet substantially along a median axis between the openings of the compartments;
  • the guide device has curved edges;
  • the guide device has walls adapted to channel the flushing water to the tube;
  • the opening is of a size that allows the suction of the maintenance liquid by hydrodynamic effect when passing water from a flush in the vicinity of the dispenser;
  • the reservoir is removable relative to the body;
  • the reservoir has two compartments separately removable relative to the body;
  • the compartments are fully part of a tank;
  • the tank compartments are twinned by a connecting piece;
  • at least one third compartment having at least one zone covered by a semipermeable membrane; this third compartment is fixed on the body of the dispenser, or on a hooking means of the body to the toilet bowl, or on one of the compartments of the liquid tank maintenance.

L'invention propose aussi un procédé de distribution d'un liquide d'entretien dans une cuvette de toilettes, comprenant les étapes de :

  • accrochage dans la cuvette des toilettes d'un distributeur de liquides d'entretien selon l'invention;
  • aspiration de liquides d'entretien hors des compartiments du réservoir par effet hydrodynamique de l'eau lors d'une chasse d'eau.
The invention also proposes a method for dispensing a maintenance liquid in a toilet bowl, comprising the steps of:
  • hanging in the toilet bowl of a maintenance fluid dispenser according to the invention;
  • suction of maintenance liquids out of the compartments of the tank by hydrodynamic effect of the water during a flush.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui suit des modes de réalisation de l'invention, donnés à titre d'exemple uniquement et en références aux dessins qui montrent :

  • figure 1, une vue schématique en coupe frontale d'un distributeur selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • figure 2, une vue schématique en coupe latérale du distributeur de la figure 1,
  • figure 3, une vue partielle de dessous du réservoir du distributeur des figures 1 et 2;
  • figure 4, une vue schématique en coupe frontale d'un distributeur selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • figure 5, une vue schématique en coupe frontale d'un distributeur selon un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • figure 6, une vue schématique en coupe latérale du distributeur de la figure 5 ;
  • figure 7, une vue partielle de dessous du réservoir du distributeur des figures 5 et 6 ;
  • figure 8, une vue en perspectives du dispositif de guidage du distributeur selon un premier mode de réalisation ;
  • figure 9, une vue en perspectives du dispositif de guidage du distributeur selon un deuxième mode de réalisation ;
  • figure 10, une vue schématique en coupe frontale d'un distributeur selon un quatrième mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • figure 11, une vue partielle de dessous du réservoir du distributeur de la figure 10 ;
  • figure 12, une vue schématique en coupe latérale du distributeur selon une première variante d'un cinquième mode de réalisation ;
  • figure 13, une vue schématique en coupe latérale du distributeur selon une deuxième variante d'un cinquième mode de réalisation ;
  • figure 14, une vue schématique en coupe arrière d'un distributeur selon une troisième variante du cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • figures 15 à 18, des résultats d'expériences sur des distributeurs à compartiments multiples.
Other features and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only and with reference to the drawings which show:
  • figure 1 , a schematic front sectional view of a dispenser according to a first embodiment of the invention;
  • figure 2 , a schematic view in side section of the distributor of the figure 1 ,
  • figure 3 , a partial view from below of the distributor tank of figures 1 and 2 ;
  • figure 4 , a schematic front sectional view of a dispenser according to a second embodiment of the invention;
  • figure 5 , a schematic front sectional view of a dispenser according to a third embodiment of the invention;
  • figure 6 , a schematic view in side section of the distributor of the figure 5 ;
  • figure 7 , a partial view from below of the distributor tank of figures 5 and 6 ;
  • figure 8 a perspective view of the dispenser guide device according to a first embodiment;
  • figure 9 a perspective view of the dispenser guide device according to a second embodiment;
  • figure 10 , a schematic front sectional view of a dispenser according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;
  • figure 11 , a partial view from below of the dispenser tank of the figure 10 ;
  • figure 12 , a schematic side sectional view of the dispenser according to a first variant of a fifth embodiment;
  • figure 13 , a schematic side sectional view of the dispenser according to a second variant of a fifth embodiment;
  • figure 14 , a schematic rear sectional view of a dispenser according to a third variant of the fifth embodiment of the invention;
  • Figures 15 to 18 , results of experiments on multi-compartment distributors.

L'invention propose, dans un dispositif à compartiments multiples, d'utiliser pour la distribution du liquide la solution décrite dans la demande EP-A-1 287 211 : le distributeur présente donc un réservoir de liquides d'entretien, avec plusieurs compartiments. Chaque compartiment est connecté, via sa partie inférieure, à une ouverture libre d'une taille qui empêche l'écoulement du liquide d'entretien hors du réservoir en l'absence de chasse d'eau.The invention proposes, in a device with multiple compartments, to use for the distribution of the liquid the solution described in the application EP-A-1,287,211 The dispenser therefore has a reservoir of cleaning liquids, with several compartments. Each compartment is connected, via its lower part, to a free opening of a size that prevents the flow of maintenance liquid out of the tank in the absence of flushing.

Le dispositif présente en outre un tube. A l'une des extrémités du tube débouche les ouvertures des compartiments. L'autre extrémité du tube est ouverte. En d'autres termes, le tube est commun aux différents compartiments.The device further has a tube. At one end of the tube opens the openings of the compartments. The other end of the tube is open. In other words, the tube is common to the different compartments.

La distribution des différents liquides s'opère suivant le principe hydrodynamique décrit plus bas, lorsque l'eau de la chasse s'écoule autour du tube et, le cas échéant, remonte dans le tube. Comme le tube est commun aux différents compartiments, la surpression créée par l'écoulement d'eau est identique pour chacun des compartiments. On assure donc la distribution d'une quantité de liquide identique en provenance de chacun des compartiments du dispositif, quelle que soit la position du distributeur dans la cuvette et la façon dont l'eau s'écoule autour du distributeur.The distribution of the different liquids is carried out according to the hydrodynamic principle described below, when the water of the flush flows around the tube and, if necessary, goes up in the tube. As the tube is common to the different compartments, the overpressure created by the flow of water is identical for each of the compartments. This ensures the distribution of an identical amount of liquid from each of the compartments of the device, regardless of the position of the dispenser in the bowl and the way the water flows around the dispenser.

L'invention propose donc, pour contrôler l'écoulement des liquides d'entretien contenu dans les compartiments du distributeur en fonction de l'utilisation des toilettes, d'exploiter l'effet hydrodynamique provoqué par la chasse d'eau. Plus spécifiquement, chacun des compartiments du réservoir est muni dans sa partie inférieure d'une ouverture, qui présente une dimension telle qu'elle empêche l'écoulement du liquide du compartiment en l'absence de sollicitation extérieure. On entend par "partie inférieure" la partie du compartiment dans laquelle se trouve le liquide lorsque le distributeur est en position dans la cuvette des toilettes. Cette ouverture est libre, en ce qu'elle n'est pas obturée par un bouchon, à l'inverse de celle qui est proposé dans US-A-3 946 448 , ni par un dispositif perméable au liquide, tel une masse poreuse.The invention therefore proposes, in order to control the flow of the maintenance liquids contained in the compartments of the dispenser according to the use of the toilets, to exploit the hydrodynamic effect caused by flushing. More specifically, each of the compartments of the tank is provided in its lower part with an opening, which has a dimension such that it prevents the flow of liquid from the compartment in the absence of external stress. The term "lower part" the part of the compartment in which the liquid is located when the dispenser is in position in the toilet bowl. This opening is free, in that it is not blocked by a plug, unlike that proposed in US-A-3,946,448 or by a device permeable to the liquid, such as a porous mass.

En dessous des ouvertures des compartiments, dans le sens d'utilisation du distributeur, est prévu un tube commun. L'extrémité inférieure du tube est ouverte ou libre, à l'inverse de la solution proposée dans WO-A-01 02653 ; on évite ainsi la difficulté de réglage rencontrée dans le dispositif de ce document. L'extrémité inférieure du tube est disposée de sorte à être sur le trajet de l'eau s'écoulant lors d'une chasse, compte tenu le cas échéant d'un dispositif de guidage.Below the openings of the compartments, in the direction of use of the dispenser, is provided a common tube. The lower end of the tube is open or free, unlike the solution proposed in WO-A-01 02653 ; this avoids the difficulty of adjustment encountered in the device of this document. The lower end of the tube is arranged so as to be in the path of the water flowing during a flush, taking into account where appropriate a guiding device.

L'écoulement de l'eau de la chasse au voisinage de l'extrémité du tube provoque par effet hydrodynamique l'aspiration d'une quantité donnée des liquides d'entretien hors du réservoir. Comme les différents compartiments sont soumis à la même surpression, du fait du tube commun, il est possible de régler avec une grande précision la distribution des différents liquides. En effet, il est parfaitement possible de régler la quantité de liquide distribué par chasse en adaptant la taille des ouvertures. En outre il est également possible de régler la vitesse de distribution relative des liquides en adaptant la taille de chacune des ouvertures selon les caractéristiques rhéologiques du liquide contenu dans le compartiment correspondant. En résumé on peut jouer sur la taille de l'ouverture, sur la viscosité du liquide ou sur les deux afin du régler la quantité de liquide distribuée par chasse. Néanmoins nous attirons l'attention sur un des avantages majeurs de l'invention, en ce que la symétrie de la distribution des liquides n'est pas influencée par la différence de viscosité entre les liquides. Comme la surpression est en tout état de cause identique pour les deux compartiments, il est certain que la proportion entre les quantités des différents liquides distribuées à chaque chasse reste identique.The flow of water from the flush near the end of the tube causes the hydrodynamic effect of the suction of a given amount of the maintenance liquids out of the tank. As the different compartments are subjected to the same overpressure, because of the common tube, it is possible to adjust with great precision the distribution of the different liquids. Indeed, it is perfectly possible to adjust the amount of liquid dispensed by flushing by adapting the size of the openings. In addition, it is also possible to adjust the relative distribution speed of the liquids by adapting the size of each of the openings according to the rheological characteristics of the liquid contained in the corresponding compartment. In summary we can play on the size of the opening, the viscosity of the liquid or both to settle the quantity of liquid distributed by flush. Nevertheless, we draw attention to one of the major advantages of the invention, in that the symmetry of the liquid distribution is not influenced by the difference in viscosity between the liquids. As the overpressure is in any case the same for both compartments, it is certain that the proportion between the quantities of the different liquids distributed at each hunt remains the same.

Les liquides distribués peuvent comprendre des tensioactifs, des essences parfumantes, des émulgateurs, des agents détartrants ou séquestrants du calcaire, des agents désinfectants ou des colorants. Les composants actifs des liquides peuvent présenter, séparément ou conjointement, des propriétés :

  • nettoyantes,
  • désinfectantes,
  • détartrantes,
  • parfumantes, etc.
Distributed liquids may include surfactants, fragrance essences, emulsifiers, limescale removers or sequestering agents, disinfectants or dyes. The active components of liquids may have, separately or together, properties:
  • cleaning,
  • disinfectant,
  • descaling,
  • fragrant, etc.

Dans la suite de la description, les liquides distribués sont simplement qualifiés de "liquides d'entretien"; on utilise les termes de "premier liquide" ou "deuxième liquide" à la seule fin de distinguer entre les différents liquides. On donne dans la suite de la description des exemples de réalisation avec deux compartiments, étant entendu qu'il est possible de prévoir plus de deux compartiments.In the remainder of the description, the liquids dispensed are simply referred to as "maintenance liquids"; the terms "first liquid" or "second liquid" are used for the sole purpose of distinguishing between the different liquids. Embodiments with two compartments are given in the following description, it being understood that it is possible to provide more than two compartments.

Les figures 1 à 3 montrent un premier mode de réalisation d'un distributeur selon l'invention avec des vues schématiques en coupe frontale et en coupe latérale et avec une vue de dessous.The Figures 1 to 3 show a first embodiment of a dispenser according to the invention with schematic views in frontal section and in side section and with a view from below.

La figure 1 montre une vue en coupe frontale du distributeur de la figure 1, le réservoir n'étant pas assemblé au distributeur. Dans ce mode de réalisation, les compartiments 6 et 8 du réservoir sont distincts l'un de l'autre, ce qui permet de changer l'un ou l'autre des compartiments du réservoir. Les compartiments 6 et 8 peuvent être jumelés par moyen d'une pièce de liaison s'ajustant sur les cols des compartiments. Les cols 26 et 28 des compartiments sont fermés par des colliers 40 et 42 distincts, avec chacun un opercule 44 et 46.The figure 1 shows a front sectional view of the dispenser of the figure 1 , the tank not being assembled to the dispenser. In this embodiment, the compartments 6 and 8 of the tank are separate from each other, which allows to change one or other of the compartments of the tank. The compartments 6 and 8 can be twinned by means of a connecting piece fitting on the necks of the compartments. The necks 26 and 28 of the compartments are closed by separate collars 40 and 42, each with a cover 44 and 46.

La figure 2 montre le corps 2 du distributeur, ainsi qu'un des compartiments du réservoir 4. Sur la figure n'est représenté que le corps 2 du distributeur, sans les moyens d'accrochage sur le bord de la cuvette. Ceux-ci peuvent s'adapter de façon réglable ou non réglable dans une ouverture 10 ménagée sur le corps 2. Le corps du distributeur présente un tube 12, avec dans sa partie inférieure une découpe 14, s'étendant sur une partie du périmètre du tube. Cette découpe permet de favoriser la remontée d'eau dans le tube 12, ou l'inverse, en fonction de la position de la découpe par rapport à la direction du flux d'eau provenant de la chasse. La partie inférieure du tube est libre, c'est-à-dire qu'elle n'est pas obturée par un dispositif poreux ou autre. L'eau de la chasse peut donc remonter dans le tube.The figure 2 shows the body 2 of the dispenser, and one of the compartments of the tank 4. In the figure is shown only the body 2 of the dispenser, without the attachment means on the edge of the bowl. These can adapt in an adjustable or non-adjustable manner in an opening 10 formed on the body 2. The body of the dispenser has a tube 12, with in its lower part a cutout 14, extending over a part of the perimeter of the tube. This cutting makes it possible to promote the rise of water in the tube 12, or vice versa, as a function of the position of the cut with respect to the direction of the flow of water coming from the flush. The lower part of the tube is free, that is to say that it is not blocked by a porous device or other. The water of the hunt can go up in the tube.

Le distributeur présente encore un dispositif de guidage 16, qui dans un exemple de réalisation a la forme d'une plaque avec des bords incurvés. La figure 8 montre une réalisation possible d'un tel dispositif de guidage en perspective. Ce dispositif de guidage permet de guider l'eau de la chasse vers le tube, de sorte à favoriser l'effet hydrodynamique conduisant à la distribution de liquides d'entretien. Les bords incurvés améliorent le guidage de l'eau et la performance comme la régularité de la distribution. Selon un mode de mise en oeuvre particulier, illustré sur la figure 9, le dispositif de guidage 16 comporte des déflecteurs d'eau 17, par exemple des parois verticales agencées dans les coins du dispositif de guidage 16. Ces parois 17 sont prévues dans la continuité verticale du tube de guidage 12 et permettent ainsi de canaliser l'eau de chasse vers le tube 12.The dispenser further has a guiding device 16, which in an exemplary embodiment has the form of a plate with curved edges. The figure 8 shows a possible embodiment of such a guide device in perspective. This guiding device makes it possible to guide the water from the flush to the tube, so as to promote the hydrodynamic effect leading to the distribution of maintenance liquids. The curved edges improve the water guidance and the performance as the regularity of the distribution. According to a particular embodiment, illustrated on the figure 9 , the guiding device 16 comprises water baffles 17, for example vertical walls arranged in the corners of the guide device 16. These walls 17 are provided in the vertical continuity of the guide tube 12 and thus allow channeling the flushing water to the tube 12.

Comme ceci apparaît bien à la figure 2, le tube présente une forme allongée et présente dans sa partie supérieure des zones en biseau 18 et 19, adaptées à perforer un opercule de protection des ouvertures dans les compartiments du réservoir. La partie supérieure du tube est fermé et présente deux ouvertures 20 et 22 visibles sur la figure 1. Lorsque le réservoir est monté dans le distributeur, ces deux ouvertures sont au contact des liquides contenus dans les compartiments du réservoir. Chacune des ouvertures a une taille adaptée à empêcher l'écoulement du liquide d'entretien correspondant hors du compartiment en l'absence de chasse d'eau.As this appears well in the figure 2 , the tube has an elongated shape and has in its upper part beveled areas 18 and 19, adapted to perforate a protective cover openings in the compartments of the reservoir. The upper part of the tube is closed and has two openings 20 and 22 visible on the figure 1 . When the tank is mounted in the dispenser, these two openings are in contact with the liquids contained in the compartments of the tank. Each of the openings has a size adapted to prevent the flow of the corresponding maintenance liquid out of the compartment in the absence of flushing.

Chacune des ouvertures 20 et 22 est disposée dans une partie cylindrique 48 et 50 adaptée à la forme du col d'un des compartiments. Entre les deux parties cylindriques 48 et 50, le tube présente une partie centrale 52. De la sorte, comme représenté à la figure 1, en fonctionnement, l'ouverture 20 (respectivement 22) est au contact du liquide contenu dans le compartiment 6 (respectivement 8).Each of the openings 20 and 22 is disposed in a cylindrical portion 48 and 50 adapted to the shape of the neck of one of the compartments. Between the two cylindrical portions 48 and 50, the tube has a central portion 52. In this way, as shown in FIG. figure 1 in operation, the opening 20 (respectively 22) is in contact with the liquid contained in the compartment 6 (respectively 8).

La figure 3 montre une vue partielle de dessous du réservoir du distributeur des figures 1 et 2; on y reconnaît les deux compartiments 6 et 8 et les limites des cols 26 et 28. Sont aussi représentés les lieux des ouvertures 20 et 22 et le trait en pointillés sur la figure montre une allure possible du tube 12.The figure 3 shows a partial bottom view of the dispenser tank of figures 1 and 2 ; the two compartments 6 and 8 and the limits of the necks 26 and 28 are recognized. The locations of the openings 20 and 22 are also shown and the dashed line in the figure shows a possible shape of the tube 12.

La figure 4 est une vue frontale d'un deuxième mode de réalisation du distributeur de l'invention, le réservoir étant assemblé au distributeur. Ce mode de réalisation est similaire de celui de la figure 1 avec la partie centrale 52 qui se situe au niveau du plan des ouvertures 20 et 22. Dans ce cas les deux parties cylindriques 48 et 50 s'intègrent complètement dans l'ensemble du tube de compression 12.The figure 4 is a front view of a second embodiment of the dispenser of the invention, the tank being assembled to the dispenser. This embodiment is similar to that of the figure 1 with the central portion 52 which is at the level of the plane of the openings 20 and 22. In this case the two cylindrical portions 48 and 50 are completely integrated in the assembly of the compression tube 12.

Les figures 5 et 6 montrent des vues similaires à celles des figures 1 et 2, dans un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention; dans ce mode de réalisation, le réservoir est formé de deux compartiments 6 et 8 qui sont assemblés, au niveau de leurs cols respectifs 26 et 28, à l'aide d'un collier 30. Ce collier permet à la fois d'assurer la cohésion mécanique entre les deux compartiments formant le réservoir. En outre, le collier 30 présente un opercule 32 scellé sur les ouvertures respectives des compartiments; l'opercule assure donc la fermeture des compartiments avant que le réservoir ne soit introduit dans le distributeur. Dans l'exemple, le réservoir est amovible, de sorte à permettre le remplacement du réservoir; on pourrait aussi prévoir un réservoir monobloc avec le corps du distributeur.The figures 5 and 6 show views similar to those of figures 1 and 2 in a third embodiment of the invention; in this embodiment, the reservoir is formed of two compartments 6 and 8 which are assembled, at their respective necks 26 and 28, with a collar 30. This collar allows both to ensure the mechanical cohesion between the two compartments forming the reservoir. In addition, the collar 30 has a seal 32 sealed on the respective openings of the compartments; the seal thus ensures the closure of the compartments before the reservoir is introduced into the dispenser. In the example, the tank is removable, so as to allow the replacement of the tank; one could also provide a monoblock tank with the body of the dispenser.

La figure 7 illustre une variante de réalisation, qui peut être applicable aux différents modes de réalisation du distributeur selon l'invention. On remarque que les ouvertures 20 et 22 ne sont pas centrées sur les cols des compartiments 26, 28, mais sont rapprochées les unes des autres. Ceci assure une meilleure égalité des pressions au niveau des ouvertures et donc une distribution similaire des liquides. Le trait en pointillés sur la figure montre une allure possible du tube 12 et le double trait montre les bords du collier 30. Dans cette variante de réalisation, le tube est en position centrale par rapport aux cols des flacons. On arrive ainsi à un tube d'une taille plus réduite, ce qui facilite la montée de l'eau de la chasse dans le tube et augmente la surpression lors de la chasse d'eau. Il est cependant entendu que le tube 12 peut présenter des parois verticales, tel qu'illustrée sur la figure 3, avec des ouvertures 20 et 22 décentrées des cols et rapprochées l'une de l'autre.The figure 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment, which may be applicable to different embodiments of the dispenser according to the invention. Note that the openings 20 and 22 are not centered on the necks of the compartments 26, 28, but are close to each other. This ensures a better equality of pressures at the openings and therefore a similar distribution of liquids. The dashed line in the figure shows a possible shape of the tube 12 and the double line shows the edges of the collar 30. In this embodiment, the tube is in the central position relative to the necks of the bottles. This results in a tube of a smaller size, which facilitates the rise of the water flush in the tube and increases the pressure during flushing. However, it is understood that the tube 12 may have vertical walls, as illustrated in FIG. figure 3 , with openings 20 and 22 off-center necks and moved closer to each other.

Les figures 10 et 11 montrent des vues similaires à celles des figures 1 et 3, dans un quatrième mode de réalisation de l'invention; dans ce mode de réalisation, le dispositif de guidage est formé de deux plaques 16' et 16" qui sont rassemblées au voisinage de l'extrémité libre du tube 12. Une nervure 54 peut être prévue au niveau de la zone de rassemblement des plaques 16', 16" et s'étend sensiblement selon un axe médian entre les deux ouvertures 20, 22 des compartiments 6, 8. Cette nervure 54 présente une hauteur limitée, de quelques millimètres ; elle n'empêche pas l'eau de chasse de se répartir dans le tube 12 vers chaque ouverture 20, 22 mais elle limite le mélange des liquides de chaque compartiment au niveau du dispositif de guidage.The Figures 10 and 11 show views similar to those of figures 1 and 3 in a fourth embodiment of the invention; in this embodiment, the guiding device is formed of two plates 16 'and 16 "which are gathered in the vicinity of the free end of the tube 12. A rib 54 may be provided at the level of the gathering area of the plates 16 16 "and extends substantially along a median axis between the two openings 20, 22 of the compartments 6, 8. This rib 54 has a limited height of a few millimeters; it does not prevent the flushing water from being distributed in the tube 12 to each opening 20, 22 but it limits the mixing of the liquids of each compartment at the guiding device.

L'utilisation de deux plaques guidant l'eau de chasse vers chaque ouverture 20, 22 à travers le tube 12 permet de distribuer deux liquides incompatibles contenus chacun dans un compartiment. Par exemple, un compartiment peut contenir un liquide contre le tartre présentant un faible pH et l'autre compartiment peut contenir un liquide désinfectant présentant un pH élevé. Un mélange de tels liquides doit non seulement être évité dans les compartiments mais également lors de la distribution car un tel mélange à forte concentration produit des gaz chlorés néfastes à respirer. Lorsque ces liquides se mélangent dans l'eau de la chasse, la concentration diminue et les effets néfastes disparaissent. Il est entendu que ce mode de réalisation du dispositif de guidage peut être combiné avec l'un quelconque des modes de réalisation décrit précédemment quant à l'agencement du tube et des compartiments.The use of two plates guiding the flush water to each opening 20, 22 through the tube 12 makes it possible to dispense two incompatible liquids each contained in a compartment. For example, one compartment may contain a tartar liquid having a low pH and the other compartment may contain a disinfectant liquid having a high pH. A mixture of such liquids must not only be avoided in the compartments but also during distribution because such a mixture at high concentration produces harmful chlorine gases to breathe. When these liquids mix in the water of the hunt, the concentration decreases and the harmful effects disappear. It is understood that this embodiment of the guiding device can be combined with any of the embodiments described above as to the arrangement of the tube and compartments.

Les figures 12 à 14 illustrent un cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention dans lequel le distributeur comprend en outre un troisième compartiment 7. Ce troisième compartiment 7 n'est pas connecté avec une ouverture libre débouchant dans le tube 12 comme les compartiments 6, 8 du réservoir mais présente au moins une zone couverte par une membrane semi-perméable. Par exemple, le troisième compartiment est en plastique et présente une portion constituée d'une membrane semi-perméable permettant la diffusion continue de substances actives, par exemple parfumantes. Ce troisième compartiment 7 peut être fixé au corps 2 du distributeur (figure 12) ou aux moyens d'accrochage 11 du corps sur le bord de la cuvette (figure 13) et être ainsi situé à l'extérieur de la cuvette de toilettes, ou être fixé sur l'un des compartiments 6, 8 du réservoir de liquides à distribuer lors des chasses d'eau (figure 14). Par exemple, le troisième réservoir 7 contient un parfum sous forme liquide et peut être logé dans une cavité ménagée dans un des compartiments 6, 8 du réservoir comme illustré sur la figure 14.The Figures 12 to 14 illustrate a fifth embodiment of the invention wherein the dispenser further comprises a third compartment 7. This third compartment 7 is not connected with a free opening opening in the tube 12 as the compartments 6, 8 of the reservoir but present at least one zone covered by a semipermeable membrane. For example, the third compartment is made of plastic and has a portion consisting of a semi-permeable membrane for the continuous diffusion of active substances, for example perfumes. This third compartment 7 can be fixed to the body 2 of the dispenser ( figure 12 ) or the attachment means 11 of the body on the edge of the bowl ( figure 13 ) and thus be located outside the toilet bowl, or be attached to one of the compartments 6, 8 of the liquid reservoir to be dispensed during flushing ( figure 14 ). For example, the third reservoir 7 contains a perfume in liquid form and can be housed in a cavity in one of the compartments 6, 8 of the reservoir as shown in FIG. figure 14 .

Le fonctionnement du distributeur est le suivant.The operation of the dispenser is as follows.

A la livraison, le réservoir est séparé du distributeur, comme ceci est représenté à la figure 1 et à la figure 5. Pour mettre en marche le distributeur, l'utilisateur enfonce le réservoir dans le distributeur, comme ceci est représenté à la figure 4.On delivery, the tank is separated from the dispenser, as shown in figure 1 and at the figure 5 . To turn on the dispenser, the user pushes the reservoir into the dispenser, as shown in figure 4 .

Selon les premier et deuxième modes de réalisation, lorsque le réservoir est enfoncé dans le distributeur, la zone en biseau 18 déchire l'opercule du réservoir, au niveau du collier 40 du compartiment 6 et la zone en biseau 19 déchire l'opercule du réservoir, au niveau du collier 42 du compartiment 8. Les parties cylindriques 48 et 50 dans lesquelles sont ménagées les ouvertures 20 et 22 viennent alors s'appliquer respectivement contre les colliers 40 et 42 des compartiments du réservoir. De la sorte, les ouvertures 20 et 22 sont respectivement au contact des liquides contenus dans les compartiments. Selon le premier mode de réalisation, la partie centrale 52 s'étend plus bas dans le tube 12 que les ouvertures 20 et 22, pour ménager autour des parties cylindriques 48 et 50 une zone permettant le passage des cols des compartiments 6 et 8. Toutefois, la partie centrale 52 s'étend à l'intérieur du tube 12 plus haut que le niveau maximum de l'eau de la chasse; en particulier, la partie centrale 52 est au-dessus de la découpe 14 dans le tube 12. De la sorte, lors d'une chasse, la surpression régnant au niveau de l'ouverture 20 est toujours égale à la surpression régnant au niveau de l'ouverture 22.According to the first and second embodiments, when the reservoir is depressed in the dispenser, the bevelled zone 18 tears the lid of the reservoir, at the collar 40 of the compartment 6 and the bevelled zone 19 tears the lid of the reservoir at the level of the collar 42 of the compartment 8. The cylindrical portions 48 and 50 in which the openings 20 and 22 are formed are then respectively applied against the collars 40 and 42 of the compartments of the reservoir. In this way, the openings 20 and 22 are respectively in contact with the liquids contained in the compartments. According to the first embodiment, the central portion 52 extends lower in the tube 12 than the openings 20 and 22, to provide around the cylindrical portions 48 and 50 an area allowing the passage of the necks of the compartments 6 and 8. However the central portion 52 extends inside the tube 12 higher than the maximum level of the flush water; in particular, the central portion 52 is above the cutout 14 in the tube 12. In this way, during a flush, the overpressure at the opening 20 is always equal to the overpressure at the level of the opening 22.

Selon le troisième mode de réalisation décrit dans la figure 5, lorsque le réservoir est enfoncé dans le distributeur, la zone en biseau 18 déchire l'opercule du réservoir, au niveau du col 26 du compartiment 6; la zone en biseau 19 déchire l'opercule du réservoir, au niveau du col 28 du compartiment 8. La surface 34 dans laquelle sont ménagées les ouvertures 20 et 22 vient alors s'appliquer contre les cols 26 et 28 des compartiments du réservoir. De la sorte, les ouvertures 20 et 22 sont respectivement au contact des liquides contenus dans les compartiments. Des nervures 36 et 38 sur le côté de la surface 34 faisant face au réservoir évitent tout mélange entre les liquides. La configuration du distributeur permet ainsi de fournir un réservoir amovible, tout en assurant une mise en contact des ouvertures 20 et 22 avec les liquides contenus dans les compartiments du réservoir, sans mélange des liquides des compartiments. Comme indiqué plus haut, cette solution avantageuse n'est pas la seule possible.According to the third embodiment described in the figure 5 when the reservoir is pushed into the dispenser, the bevelled zone 18 tears the seal of the reservoir, at the neck 26 of the compartment 6; the bevelled zone 19 tears the seal of the reservoir at the neck 28 of the compartment 8. The surface 34 in which the openings 20 and 22 are formed then comes to bear against the necks 26 and 28 of the compartments of the reservoir. In this way, the openings 20 and 22 are respectively in contact with the liquids contained in the compartments. Ribs 36 and 38 on the side of the tank-facing surface 34 prevent any mixing between the liquids. The configuration of the dispenser thus makes it possible to provide a removable reservoir, while ensuring that the openings 20 and 22 are brought into contact with the liquids contained in the compartments of the reservoir, without mixing the liquids of the compartments. As indicated above, this advantageous solution is not the only one possible.

Selon le quatrième mode de réalisation décrit dans les figures 10 et 11, lorsque le réservoir est enfoncé dans le distributeur, la zone en biseau 18 déchire l'opercule du réservoir, au niveau du collier 40 du compartiment 6 et la zone en biseau 19 déchire l'opercule du réservoir, au niveau du collier 42 du compartiment 8. Les ouvertures 20 et 22 sont alors respectivement au contact des liquides contenus dans les compartiments. Selon ce quatrième mode de réalisation, le dispositif de guidage comprend deux plaques 16', 16" qui guident l'eau de chasse dans le tube 12 unique mais séparent l'écoulement de chaque liquide vers la cuvette. Ainsi, lors d'une chasse, la surpression régnant au niveau de l'ouverture 20 sera toujours égale à la surpression régnant au niveau de l'ouverture 22 pour une distribution en quantité égale des liquides de chaque compartiment mais ces liquides ne seront mélangés que dans la cuvette pour éviter des réactions chimiques néfastes pour l'utilisateur.According to the fourth embodiment described in Figures 10 and 11 when the reservoir is depressed in the dispenser, the bevelled zone 18 tears the seal of the reservoir at the collar 40 of the compartment 6 and the bevelled zone 19 tears the seal of the reservoir at the collar 42 of the compartment 8. The openings 20 and 22 are respectively in contact with the liquids contained in the compartments. According to this fourth embodiment, the guiding device comprises two plates 16 ', 16 "which guide the flushing water in the single tube 12 but separate the flow of each liquid to the bowl. , the overpressure prevailing at the level of the opening 20 will always be equal to the overpressure prevailing at the level of the opening 22 for an equal quantity distribution of the liquids of each compartment but these liquids will be mixed only in the bowl to avoid chemical reactions harmful to the user.

Pour toutes les modes de réalisation, une fois le réservoir amovible assemblé au corps du distributeur, le distributeur est monté dans la cuvette des toilettes. Ainsi, l'extrémité libre du tube se trouve au voisinage du trajet de l'eau de la chasse d'eau, ou même dans le trajet de l'eau. En l'absence de chasse d'eau, les ouvertures 20 et 22 empêche tout écoulement des liquides hors des compartiments 6 et 8. L'écoulement de l'eau lors de la chasse provoque donc une surpression dans le tube et l'injection d'air dans les compartiments par les ouvertures 20 et 22. Lorsque l'eau s'écoule, après la fin de la chasse, la pression dans le tube diminue et la surpression créée par l'injection d'air dans les compartiments provoque l'écoulement des liquides hors des compartiments. On assure ainsi la distribution d'une certaine quantité de liquide à la fin de chaque chasse.For all embodiments, once the removable tank assembled to the body of the dispenser, the dispenser is mounted in the toilet bowl. Thus, the free end of the tube is in the vicinity of the path of the water flush, or even in the path of water. In the absence of flushing, the openings 20 and 22 prevent any flow of liquids out of the compartments 6 and 8. The flow of water during the flush therefore causes an overpressure in the tube and the injection of water. air in the compartments through the openings 20 and 22. When the water flows, after the end of the flush, the pressure in the tube decreases and the pressure created by the injection of air into the compartments causes the flow of liquids out of the compartments. This ensures the distribution of a certain amount of liquid at the end of each hunt.

Comme le tube 12 est commun aux deux compartiments, autrement dit que les ouvertures 20 et 22 débouchent toutes les deux dans le même tube 12, la surpression dans le tube est la même pour les deux compartiments. Ceci assure une même action d'une chasse sur les deux compartiments, comme expliqué plus haut.As the tube 12 is common to both compartments, that is to say that the openings 20 and 22 both open into the same tube 12, the pressure in the tube is the same for both compartments. This ensures the same action of a hunt on both compartments, as explained above.

La forme du tube 12 peut être quelconque; dans l'exemple, on a choisi pour le tube une section allongée; celle-ci assure que le tube présente un volume intérieur maximal, pour un périmètre donné; cette forme est aussi bien adaptée à des ouvertures circulaires dans les cols ou les colliers des compartiments.The shape of the tube 12 can be any; in the example, an elongate section has been chosen for the tube; this ensures that the tube has a maximum internal volume, for a given perimeter; this shape is also well adapted to circular openings in the necks or necklaces of the compartments.

La section des ouvertures 20 et 22 a un diamètre de 1,5 mm dans l'exemple de réalisation des figures 1 à 3, pour un liquide d'entretien présentant une viscosité de l'ordre de 2000 mPa.s. Plus généralement, le liquide d'entretien peut présenter une viscosité entre 10 et 4000 mPa.s, et l'ouverture peut présenter un diamètre entre 0,2 et 15 mm. Le diamètre ou la surface de l'ouverture peut être déterminé expérimentalement, pour un liquide d'entretien donné. Des viscosités encore plus importantes sont possibles, des valeurs entre 2500 et 5000 mPa.s, voire allant jusqu'à 6000 mPa.s sont appropriées. Le diamètre de l'ouverture peut alors être choisi entre 1,2 et 1,8 mm.The section of the openings 20 and 22 has a diameter of 1.5 mm in the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 3 , for a maintenance liquid having a viscosity of the order of 2000 mPa.s. More generally, the maintenance liquid may have a viscosity of between 10 and 4000 mPa.s, and the opening may have a diameter of between 0.2 and 15 mm. The diameter or area of the opening can be determined experimentally for a given maintenance liquid. Even greater viscosities are possible, values between 2500 and 5000 mPa.s, and up to 6000 mPa.s are appropriate. The diameter of the opening can then be chosen between 1.2 and 1.8 mm.

On comprend que l'invention évite un écoulement constant du liquide d'entretien, et une perte de liquide en l'absence d'utilisation des toilettes. On comprend aussi que l'invention évite les remontées d'eau dans le réservoir, et la dilution du liquide d'entretien. Par ailleurs, le dispositif de l'invention est immédiatement fonctionnel, à l'inverse des dispositifs à masse poreuse: dès la première chasse, ou la deuxième, une quantité déterminée de liquide d'entretien est distribuée. La quantité de liquide d'entretien distribuée est indépendante de la fréquence d'utilisation du distributeur.It is understood that the invention avoids a constant flow of the maintenance liquid, and a loss of liquid in the absence of use of the toilet. It is also understood that the invention avoids the upwelling in the tank, and the dilution of the maintenance liquid. Furthermore, the device of the invention is immediately functional, unlike devices with a porous mass: from the first flush, or the second, a specific amount of maintenance liquid is distributed. The amount of maintenance fluid dispensed is independent of how often the dispenser is used.

Comme le fonctionnement du distributeur de l'invention repose sur l'aspiration provoquée par l'écoulement de la chasse, le liquide d'entretien peut présenter une viscosité plus faible que dans les distributeurs de l'état de la technique. Ceci évite tout blocage du distributeur par des épaississants, et améliore sa fiabilité.Since the operation of the dispenser of the invention is based on the suction caused by the flow of the flush, the maintenance liquid may have a lower viscosity than in the distributors of the state of the art. This prevents blocking of the dispenser by thickeners, and improves its reliability.

Comme indiqué plus haut, on peut adapter indépendamment la quantité de liquide qui s'écoule de chacun des compartiments; en particulier, dans un mode de réalisation, on peut prévoir que le liquide d'un compartiment est distribué plus vite que le liquide de l'autre compartiment, en prévoyant une ouverture plus grande ou un plus grand nombre d'ouvertures. En tout état de cause, comme la distribution des liquides des compartiments s'effectue par application d'une même pression, le rapport entre les quantités de liquides provenant des différents compartiments est toujours identique.As indicated above, it is possible to independently adjust the amount of liquid flowing from each of the compartments; in particular, in one embodiment, it can be provided that the liquid of one compartment is dispensed faster than the liquid of the other compartment, by providing a larger opening or a larger number of openings. In any case, since the liquid distribution of the compartments is effected by application of the same pressure, the ratio between the quantities of liquids coming from the different compartments is always identical.

Les figures 15 à 18 montrent des résultats d'expériences sur ces distributeurs à compartiments multiples. Sur chacune des figures, on a porté en abscisses un nombre de chasses et en ordonnées la perte de liquide, autrement dit le pourcentage de liquide distribué par le distributeur.The Figures 15 to 18 show results of experiments on these multi-compartment distributors. In each of the figures, the abscissa has a number of hunts and ordinate the loss of liquid, ie the percentage of liquid dispensed by the distributor.

La figure 15 montre les résultats d'expérience pour un distributeur avec deux compartiments et deux systèmes de distribution distincts; chacun des dispositifs de distribution est du genre décrit dans le document EP-A-1 287 211 . Les deux liquides présentent des viscosités de 3160 et 2650 cP. Les systèmes de distribution sont identiques. Après environ 500 chasses, le deuxième compartiment s'est vidé à 80%, tandis que le premier compartiment n'est vidé qu'à 10%. Les résultats du test s'expliquent encore à la fois par la position du distributeur et par la différence de viscositéThe figure 15 shows the experience results for a distributor with two compartments and two separate dispensing systems; each of the dispensing devices is of the kind described in the document EP-A-1,287,211 . Both liquids have viscosities of 3160 and 2650 cP. The distribution systems are identical. After about 500 hunts, the second compartment has emptied 80%, while the first compartment is emptied at 10%. The results of the test are explained by both the position of the dispenser and the difference in viscosity

La figure 16 montre les résultats d'expérience pour un distributeur avec deux compartiments identique à celui utilisé dans l'expérience de la figure 15; à la différence de la figure 15, les deux liquides présentent une viscosité identique de 5188 cP. Après environ 300 chasses, le premier compartiment est vide, tandis que le deuxième compartiment n'est vidé qu'à 25% après plus de 600 chasses. Les résultats du test s'expliquent par la position du distributeur, le système de distribution du premier compartiment étant dans le flux de l'eau de la chasse, tandis que le système de distribution du deuxième compartiment est masqué et ne reçoit qu'un flux plus faible.The figure 16 shows the results of experiment for a distributor with two compartments identical to that used in the experiment of the figure 15 ; unlike the figure 15 both liquids have an identical viscosity of 5188 cP. After about 300 hunts, the first compartment is empty, while the second compartment is emptied at 25% after more than 600 hunts. The results of the test are explained by the position of the dispenser, the distribution system of the first compartment being in the flow of the water of the hunt, while the distribution system of the second compartment is masked and receives only one flow weaker.

La figure 17 montre les résultats d'expérience pour un distributeur avec deux compartiments, du genre représenté à la figure 4 ou 5 avec des déflecteurs d'eau du genre représentés à la figure 9. Les deux liquides présentent une viscosité identique de 2700 cP. La figure montre que les deux compartiments se vident simultanément.The figure 17 shows the results of experiment for a distributor with two compartments, of the kind represented in the figure 4 or 5 with water deflectors of the kind shown in figure 9 . Both liquids have an identical viscosity of 2700 cP. The figure shows that the two compartments empty simultaneously.

La figure 18 montre les résultats d'expérience pour un distributeur avec deux compartiments, du genre représenté à la figure 4 ou 5 avec des déflecteurs d'eau du genre représentés à la figure 9. Les deux liquides présentent des viscosités de 2935 et S 188 cP. La figure montre que les deux compartiments se vident simultanément malgré la différence de viscosité.The figure 18 shows the results of experiment for a distributor with two compartments, of the kind represented in the figure 4 or 5 with water deflectors of the kind shown in figure 9 . Both liquids have viscosities of 2935 and 188 cP. The figure shows that both compartments empty simultaneously despite the difference in viscosity.

Les tests menés démontrent aussi que la simultanéité du vidage des compartiments n'est pas affectée par la position du distributeur dans la cuvette des toilettes. La position peut influer sur la quantité de liquides distribués à chaque chasse. Toutefois, la quantité du liquide provenant du premier compartiment est toujours identique à la quantité du liquide provenant du deuxième compartiment.The tests conducted also demonstrate that the simultaneity of emptying the compartments is not affected by the position of the dispenser in the toilet bowl. Position can influence on the quantity of liquids distributed at each hunt. However, the amount of the liquid from the first compartment is always the same as the amount of the liquid from the second compartment.

Bien entendu, la présente invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisations décrits à titre d'exemple. On peut notamment se rapporter au document EP-A-1 287 211 pour ce qui est des détails de réalisation du réservoir ou du corps du distributeur.Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described by way of example. In particular, we can refer to the document EP-A-1,287,211 as regards the details of realization of the tank or the body of the dispenser.

En outre, le tube de distribution pourrait présenter une autre forme que celle qui est donnée dans les exemples de réalisation. Le tube de l'invention peut présenter une section différente de celle qui est proposée; on peut utiliser par exemple une section carrée, le tube étant simplement formé de quatre parois qui entourent l'ouverture prévue dans la partie inférieure du réservoir. La longueur du tube peut varier par rapport aux modes de réalisation, et elle pourrait tout à fait être inférieure à la section. La section du tube peut aussi couvrir toute la surface du distributeur; on pourrait dans ce cas appeler le tube "jupe" ou "compartiment".In addition, the dispensing tube could have another shape than that given in the exemplary embodiments. The tube of the invention may have a section different from that which is proposed; for example, a square section may be used, the tube being simply formed of four walls which surround the opening provided in the lower part of the tank. The length of the tube may vary from the embodiments, and it may well be smaller than the section. The section of the tube can also cover the entire surface of the dispenser; one could in this case call the tube "skirt" or "compartment".

Dans les exemples, on a décrit des dispositifs à deux compartiments. On peut prévoir plus de deux compartiments. Dans ce cas, on peut utiliser un tube commun à l'ensemble des compartiments; ceci permet d'assurer la distribution d'une même proportion de l'ensemble des produits. On peut aussi utiliser des tubes communs à seulement certains des compartiments, dans la mesure où il n'est utile de ne contrôler la distribution relative que de certains des liquides.In the examples, devices with two compartments have been described. More than two compartments can be provided. In this case, it is possible to use a tube common to all the compartments; this ensures the distribution of the same proportion of all products. Tubes common to only some of the compartments may also be used, since it is useful to control the relative distribution of only some of the liquids.

Enfin, l'invention est décrite dans son application préférée à la distribution de liquides d'entretien dans la cuvette de toilettes; elle peut aussi s'appliquer à la distribution de liquides d'une autre nature dans un environnement avec un écoulement de fluide.Finally, the invention is described in its preferred application to the distribution of maintenance liquids in the toilet bowl; it can also be applied to the distribution of liquids of another nature in an environment with a flow of fluid.

Claims (18)

  1. A dispenser for a toilet bowl care fluid, comprising
    - a body (2) adapted to be engaged onto the bowl,
    - a container (4) for care fluid having at least two compartments (6, 8), each compartment of the at least two compartments (6, 8) being, via its lower portion, connected to a free opening (20, 22)
    characterized in that it comprises a tube (12) at an open end of which the openings of the compartments discharge, the other end of the tube being open, the free opening (20, 22) of each compartment (6, 8) being of a size which prevents the flow of care fluid from said compartment in the absence of flushing.
  2. The dispenser of claim 1, characterized in that the dispenser is shaped so as to place the open end of the tube in the path of the flushing water when the dispenser is engaged onto a bowl.
  3. The dispenser of claim 1 or 2, characterized by guide means (16) adjacent the open end of the tube.
  4. The dispenser of claim 3, characterized in that the guide means comprises a plate (16).
  5. The dispenser of claim 3, characterized in that the guide means comprises two plates (16', 16") which come together in the vicinity of the open end of the tube.
  6. The dispenser of claim 5, characterized in that the guide means comprises a rib (54) extending over the area where the plates (16', 16") come together substantially along a central axis between the openings (20, 22) of the compartments.
  7. The dispenser of one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the guide means (16) has curved edges.
  8. The dispenser of one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the guide means (16) has walls (17) adapted to channel flush water towards the tube (12).
  9. The dispenser of one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the opening is of a size that allows suction of the care fluid by a hydrodynamic effect during the passage of water from flushing in the vicinity of the dispenser.
  10. The dispenser of one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the container (4) is removable from the body (2).
  11. The dispenser of one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the container (4) comprises two compartments (6, 8) separately removable from the body (2).
  12. The dispenser of one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the compartments (6) and (8) are an integral part of a container.
  13. The dispenser of one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the compartments (6) and (8) of the container are coupled by a connecting piece.
  14. The dispenser of one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it further comprises at least one third compartment (7) having at least one area covered by a semipermeable membrane.
  15. The dispenser of claim 14, characterized in that the third compartment (7) is fixed to the body (2) of the dispenser.
  16. The dispenser of claim 14, characterized in that the third compartment (7) is fixed to means (11) for hanging the body (2) onto the toilet bowl.
  17. The dispenser of claim 14, characterized in that the third compartment (7) is fixed onto one of the compartments (6, 8) of the care fluid container (4).
  18. A method for dispensing a toilet care fluid into a toilet bowl, comprising the steps of:
    - engaging a dispenser for care fluids according to one of claims 1 to 17 onto the toilet bowl;
    - sucking care fluids out of the compartments (6, 8) of the container by a hydrodynamic effect of the water during flushing.
EP20080006259 2007-04-03 2008-03-31 Cleaning liquid dispenser with multiple compartments for toilet bowls Not-in-force EP1978168B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0702430A FR2914661B1 (en) 2007-04-03 2007-04-03 DISTRIBUTOR OF MAINTENANCE FLUIDS WITH MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS FOR TOILET BOWLS

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EP1978168A1 EP1978168A1 (en) 2008-10-08
EP1978168B1 true EP1978168B1 (en) 2014-11-26

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WO2010094395A1 (en) * 2009-02-19 2010-08-26 Henkel Ag & Co. Kgaa Discharge device, in particular toilet flusher, having a tank that can be coupled
FR2964672B1 (en) * 2010-09-15 2014-01-10 Eurvest MAINTENANCE PRODUCT DISTRIBUTOR FOR TOILET BOWLS
WO2017129948A1 (en) * 2016-01-25 2017-08-03 Reckitt Benckiser (Brands) Limited In-the-bowl dispensing device

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IT1030072B (en) 1973-11-02 1979-03-30 Tamin El Sioufy DEVICE FOR THE DISINFECTION AND CHEMICAL CLEANING OF THE TOILET VESSEL
NL9101759A (en) 1991-10-22 1993-05-17 Sara Lee De Nv LIQUID CLEANER AND / OR FRESHENER FOR A TOILET POT.
NL1001722C2 (en) 1995-11-22 1997-05-23 Sara Lee De Nv Cleaning and refreshing unit intended to be hung on a toilet bowl rim.
FR2747139A1 (en) 1996-04-05 1997-10-10 Robertet Perfume or cleaning product dispenser for flush toilets
GB9915601D0 (en) 1999-07-02 1999-09-01 Globol Chem Uk Ltd A dispenser
FR2809123B1 (en) * 2000-05-19 2003-01-10 Eurvest S A MAINTENANCE LIQUID DISPENSER FOR TOILETS
DE10164866B4 (en) 2000-11-17 2007-06-14 Henkel Kgaa Dispensing device for dispensing active fluids into the rinsing fluid in a toilet bowl
NL1016631C2 (en) * 2000-11-17 2002-05-22 Sara Lee De Nv Device with a multiple toilet care effect.
ITRE20040084A1 (en) * 2004-07-14 2004-10-14 Re Le Vi Spa DISPENSER FOR WC WITH PERFUME ROOM

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1978168A1 (en) 2008-10-08
FR2914661B1 (en) 2009-06-26
FR2914661A1 (en) 2008-10-10

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