JPH0217199B2 - - Google Patents

Abstract

To date, commercial and industrial washing applications have required substantially continuous detergent addition, which has resulted in problems of maintaining consistency in the composition and strength of the added detergent as well as in cost and safety problems. These problems are solved by providing a detergent dispenser (20) for efficiently converting one or more solid block detergent compositions into concentrated detergent solutions as disclosed. A housing (21) defines a substantially enclosed inner cavity (30), and access and discharge ports (32) and (34) respectively. Retaining means (40) holds a charge of solid block detergent composition (100-103), in fixed position, exposing at least one broad surface (100a) of the detergent block. Nozzle means (61) directs a pressurized liquid spray against substantially the entire exposed detergent surface(s), dissolving a portion thereof, which is collected by the housing (30b) and passed through the discharge port. The retaining means may be a removable cartridge receptacle member which may include an overlying screen member (50) and may be configured to define a plurality of different receptacles (46, 47). Closure means (44) and safety switching means (70, 72) cooperably prevent hazardous spray from leaving the inner cavity.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a solid block detergent cartridge used in a detergent blending machine which converts detergent in the form of solid blocks, ie, detergent lumps, into a concentrated detergent solution.

BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, detergents used in detergent mixers to make detergent solutions have been compacted into balls. In such a device, the detergent solution is concentrated at the beginning when the detergent is large, and becomes dilute at the end when the detergent is small, making it impossible to supply a detergent solution of a constant concentration. In addition, it was difficult to handle industrially, and was not suitable for industrially obtaining solutions with detergent blenders.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a solid block detergent cartridge which can be used with a detergent mixer to constantly produce a detergent solution of a constant concentration and which is also suitable for industrial use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A solid block detergent cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below along with an example of a blending machine 20 to which the solid block detergent cartridge can be installed.

The dispenser shown is one type that is suitable for relatively small laundry applications, where the detergent dispenser is mounted directly on the washing machine or in close proximity to the washing machine. As a result, the concentrated detergent solution produced by the dispenser will flow by gravity into the washing tank (not shown) of the washing machine itself. The specific embodiments shown in the figures are but one example of many of the embodiments and applications for which the invention may be used, and the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. , these things should be understood.

The compounder 20 includes a housing 21 made of any suitable material capable of withstanding exposure to highly caustic detergent solutions, and made of stainless steel or molded plastic material. It is preferable. Housing 21 is formed with a generally flat back wall 21a (FIG. 7) suitable for engaging or attaching to vertical surface wall 15. On the back wall 21a,
A plurality of mounting slots 22 are formed,
on a solid vertical surface, such as a vertical wall of a washing machine or a vertical wall located adjacent to a washing machine;
The housing 21 can be attached.
The housing 21 is configured so that it can be mounted on any solid surface, and is not limited to being mounted only on vertical or flat surfaces. The point should be understood.

The housing 21 has an internal cavity 30,
As shown in FIG. 8, this internal cavity 30 consists of a spraying area 30a located at the upper part and a collection area 30b located at the lower part.

The upper portion of the housing 21 includes an inlet 32 that opens into the inner cavity 30 and a concentrated detergent solution that opens into the inner cavity 30 and that is collected or accumulated within the lower portion of the inner cavity 30 of the housing 21. An outlet 34 is formed (FIGS. 5 and 6) forming a passage for passage of the fluid through the housing 21. Housing 21
has a hose clamp extension 35 having a discharge port 34 formed therein, a plurality of ribs formed on the outer periphery of the extension 35 for engagement with a conduit or hose, and a hose clamp extension 35 having a discharge port 34 formed therein; The portion 35 is configured to direct the water exiting from the outlet 34 (not shown). Although the specific shape of the discharge port 34 is illustrated in the embodiments of the present invention disclosed in each figure, it may vary depending on the overall shape of the blender 20.
Other forms of outlet can be made. For example, if the blending machine itself has a tank installed on the lower side to collect the concentrated detergent solution produced by the blending machine, the entire bottom part of the internal cavity 30 is the outlet 34, and the lower side It is also possible to have a small opening in the tank (e.g., May 3, 1977).
U.S. Patent No. 1, granted to Moffat et al.
4020865). Similarly, as further detailed below,
The entrance 32 can adopt a variety of structures,
In addition, it is not necessarily necessary to be placed so as to open into the upper part of the internal cavity 30. For example, in a bottom-feeding blender,
The inlet can be located at the bottom of the compounder housing and can also include the outlet of such a compounder.

The upper front wall portion 21b of the housing 21 is inclined at a certain angle with respect to the horizontal plane and projects downward from the inlet 32. In the embodiment of the present invention shown in each figure, the upper front wall portion 21b is
It has an angle of approximately 60 degrees. Upper front wall part 21
b ends at the first lower wall part 21c of the housing 21 and is continuous therewith, and the first lower wall part 21c is slightly inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, and the upper part It extends to a plane that is generally parallel to the plane of the front wall portion 21b. The lower front wall 21d terminates in and is continuous with the bottom wall 21e of the housing, and the lower front wall 21d
A discharge port 34 is formed through the hole e. In each figure, the bottom wall 21e is generally flat; however, the bottom wall 21e can have a variety of configurations (such as lamp-type or funnel-type), and may be of a housing type. The liquid accumulated in the lower collection area 30b is directed towards the outlet 34.

The back wall portion 21a extends between the bottom wall portion 21e and the upper wall portion 21f.
extends to and forms one end of the inlet 32. Looking at the cross-sectional view in Figure 8,
In the internal cavity 30, the upper front wall 21
b, between the first lower wall portion 21c, the back wall portion 21a and the upper wall portion 21f, the upper spray area 30
On the other hand, in the internal cavity 30, the collection area 30b is formed between the lower front wall 21d, the rear wall 21a, and the bottom wall 21e.

Further, the housing 21 has a bottom wall portion 21e.
and the upper wall 21f, and extend laterally between the rear wall 21a, the front wall 21b, the first lower wall 21c, and the lower wall 21d, and face each other. It has a pair of side wall portions 21g.

The side wall portion 21g has flanges 24 that extend within the internal cavity and are located on a plane parallel to the upper front wall portion 21b with a predetermined distance from each other. The flange 24 is provided to extend downwardly from the inlet 32 toward the bottom wall 21e and cooperates with the front wall 21b to form mutually facing channels within the internal cavity. The cartridges 40 are slidably attached to these channels.

An exemplary cartridge 40 suitable for removable insertion into the inlet 32 of the blender 21 is illustrated with reference to FIG. Basically, it is a receptacle or container type member suitable for removably holding a block. As referenced herein, the term so-called ``solid block'' detergent mixtures refers to such products as cast detergents, cake detergents, agglomerated detergents, and other solid detergents that are essentially in the form of blocks, the manufacture of which Regardless of the law, the term "solid detergent powder" or "liquid" detergent refers to solid detergent in any form, geometric shape or mass (as distinguished from solid 'powder' detergent or 'liquid' detergent). , a lower peripheral sidewall portion 42, an intermediate overhang region 43, and an upper peripheral sidewall portion 44. Cartridge 40
is of suitable construction to expose at least one large surface of the retained detergent mass,
The cartridge shown in FIG. 2 is approximately rectangular, although any geometrical configuration may be employed. The lower peripheral sidewall portion 42 extends from the bottom surface 41 and the intermediate overhang area 43, except that the sidewall indicated at 42a does not extend perpendicularly to the bottom surface 41.
It extends between. The non-vertical side wall 42a is
It is inclined relative to the bottom surface 41 at an angle corresponding to the angle of inclination defined between the upper front wall 21b and the first lower wall 21c of the housing 21 (see FIG. 8). The intermediate overhang area 43 of the cartridge 40 is a plane generally parallel to the bottom surface 41.
An upper peripheral sidewall 44 projects upwardly from the intermediate overhang 43, with the three side walls of the peripheral sidewall being substantially perpendicular to the intermediate overhang. Another side wall, a fourth side wall 44a, is inclined with respect to the plane of the intermediate overhang region 43, and its internal angle is between the lower front wall 21d and the bottom wall 21e of the housing 21 of the compounder. substantially equal to the internal angle formed (see FIG. 8).

A portion 43a of the intermediate overhang area is located between the sidewalls 42a and 44a of the lower and upper peripheral sidewall portions, and is also located within the intermediate overhang area 4 of the cartridge 40.
3 (measured between the corresponding portions of the upper and lower peripheral sidewalls). A plurality of protrusions 45 protrude upwardly from a portion 43d of the intermediate overhang region, and their upper surfaces lie substantially flat.

The lower peripheral side wall 42 cooperates with the bottom surface 41 to form a first receptacle-shaped container 46 capable of holding a geometrically agglomerated detergent mixture 100 (FIG. 8). reference). In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first receptacle-shaped container 46
holds a solid "cast" detergent mixture that is placed into a receptacle-shaped container 46 of cartridge 40, which forms the mold from which detergent mixture 100 is manufactured.
In the container 46 of the cartridge 40, the detergent mixture 100 is loaded such that the flat upper surface 100a is located flush with or slightly below the intermediate overhang area 43. Upper surface 10
0a is positioned to be exposed to spray from the nozzle means, as will be explained in more detail below.

The enlarged portion 43a of the intermediate overhang area is the second
It forms the bottom surface of a receiver-shaped container (receiver portion) 47 (see FIGS. 2 and 8). The screen member 50 simultaneously also
With respect to both the first receptacle-shaped container 46 and the second receptacle-shaped container 47, in a spaced relationship with respect to a portion 43a of the intermediate overhang area on the lower side, so as to be stacked thereon, respectively,
It has a structure that allows it to be attached to the protrusion 45. The screen member 50 has a substantially flat first flat part 50a (FIG. 2) and a substantially flat second flat part 5.
0b, and a connecting wall portion 50c. The first flat portion 50a is dimensioned to fit snugly between the facing upper peripheral side walls 44, and
It is structured so that it can be attached to three consecutive areas of the intermediate overhang area 43, except for a portion 43a of the intermediate overhang area, so that it can be substantially stacked on top of the first receptacle-shaped container 46 of the cartridge 40. .

The second flat part 50b of the screen member 50 is disposed parallel to and above the plane of the first flat part 50a, and is arranged in a space between a part 43a of the intermediate projecting area and the second flat part 50b of the cartridge 40. It is structured so that it can be attached to a plurality of protrusions 45 so that it can be placed above the two-receiver type container 47 in general. Connecting wall portion 5 of screen member 50
0c is the first flat part 50a of the screen member 50
and the second flat portion 50b, such that a portion 42a of the lower peripheral sidewall forms an interior angle between the bottom surface 41 and a portion 43a of the intermediate overhang of the cartridge 40. are substantially the same angle as those interior angles formed between them. When the connecting wall portion 50c of the screen member 50 is attached to the cartridge 40, the connecting wall portion 50c
0c is the first flat part 50 of the screen member 50
a and the second flat portion 50b, which angles form an internal angle between the lower peripheral side wall portion 42a and the bottom surface 41 and of the intermediate overhang area of the cartridge 40. Part 43a
is substantially the same angle as their interior angle. Connecting wall portion 50 of screen member 50
c is attached to the cartridge 40, the connecting wall portion 50c is connected to a portion 42a of the lower peripheral side wall portion.
substantially coplanar and overlapping and formed in an extension of the lower peripheral side wall portion 42a, thereby forming an intermediate overhang area portion 43a, an upper peripheral side wall portion 44a, and an intermediate overhang area. The portion 43a and the mutually facing portions of the upper peripheral side wall portion 44 which extend continuously define a second receptacle-shaped container 47.

Cartridge 40 is constructed of a material that can withstand exposure to highly caustic detergent solutions, and is preferably made of molded plastic material, such as polyethylene or polypropylene. Cartridges can be sold together with solid block detergents or as a single product;
After the whole 0, or its parts, have consumed the charge of detergent held captive by them, they can also be discarded.
If the cartridge is a disposable item, the screen member 50 may be permanently welded or attached to the intermediate overhang 43 and the plurality of projections 45.

Alternatively, the cartridge 40 could be a reusable item, in which case it would likely be made of stainless steel, in which case the screen member 50
can be releasably secured to the underlying cartridge 40 to allow for refilling of detergent which is removably held by the various receptacles of the cartridge. Screen member 50
Although any material that can withstand exposure to highly caustic detergent solutions may be used, in the preferred embodiment, a plastic material is preferred. The mesh size of the screen member 50 is small enough to prevent solid particles of solid block detergent held captive by the receptacle of the cartridge from passing through the screen member; A pressurized spray pattern that directs detergent onto exposed surfaces.
The large dimensions are such that passage through the screen member is relatively unobstructed.
Generally, the mesh size of the screen member 50 is
It should be at most large enough not to exceed the maximum dimensions of the outlet 34, so that solid block detergent clumps or flakes that may pass through the screen member flow through the outlet 34. This is to avoid clogging the free flow of the solution.

First receptacle-shaped container 46 of cartridge 40
The structure is such that it can hold the main solid detergent used for cleaning. First receiver type container 4
The preferred use of No. 6 is to enable the retention of solid "cast" block detergents, similar to those described in Continuation Application No. 875,784 (Fernholz et al.), filed February 7, 1978. However, other forms of detergent may also be securely held by the first receptacle-shaped container 46. The second container-shaped container 47 contains an elongated mass of a second detergent mixture 102 (see FIG.
No. 875,784).
The structure is such that a plurality of pillow-shaped lumps, trellis-shaped lumps, tablets, pellets, etc. of a solid detergent mixture can be held in a restrained manner. A dowel or tablet of a second detergent mixture, which is held captive by the second receptacle-shaped container 47, is illustrated in FIG. 8 with the reference numeral 103.

Cartridge 4 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 8
Although the cartridge 40 has two receptacle-shaped containers that can separately hold two different detergent mixtures, the cartridge 40 does not necessarily require a plurality of separably different containers. For example, the cartridge may be provided with a single receptacle-shaped container capable of securely holding a single mass or block of solid detergent mixture. The solid detergent mixture is homogeneous or
It can include "cores", "pockets", or all sections of different detergent mixtures, such as chlorine sources, defoamers, etc., as seen in the co-pending application No. 875,784. Alternatively, the cartridge 40 can be modified to have two receptacle-shaped containers, as shown in FIG.
There, the first receptacle-shaped container 46 is separated by means of a separating wall 48, thereby confining two different masses or geometrically shaped masses of the solid block detergent mixture. This defines a pair of receptacle-shaped containers 46a and 46b that can be held freely.

It should be understood that many constructions of detergent mixture detention means can be devised within the principles and scope of the present invention;
The cartridge 40 has a structure for such a restraining means.
It's just one of the possibilities. Many shapes and configurations of the members supporting the cartridge are possible within the scope of the concept of using the cartridge 40. Although a generally rectangular container is disclosed as the receptacle container of the cartridge 40, cylindrical, triangular, various polygonal, and numerous other regular or irregular shapes may also be employed. It should be. Furthermore, the solid block detergent mixture 100 is held in a detainable manner.
Although the large exposed surface 100a is disclosed as a generally flat surface, other configurations and shapes of such exposed surfaces are possible, and may include, for example, concave, convex, spherical, pyramidal shapes, etc. ,
It is not limited to shapes such as conical shapes. Further, it is assumed that the exposed surface 100a is coextensive with the outer peripheral boundary of the cartridge 40 (e.g., an intermediate overhang area 43 of the cartridge 40).
Although shown as being coplanar with the detergent, the support means for the detergent need not necessarily engage the detergent on all sides, but only on one side.

The main idea is that the support means actually retainably holds the detergent and, relative to the support means,
maintaining the position of the detergent so that the exposed surface of the detergent, no matter where it is oriented, exits the nozzle means and maintains a fixed pre-position relative to the spray pattern being sprayed. The exposed surface can be maintained in a fixed position. The details will be described below.

In the preferred embodiment of the detergent dispensing machine shown in the figures, the height and width of the cartridge 40 are sized such that it can be inserted into the housing 21 through the inlet 32, as shown in FIG. . on oppositely disposed sides of the cartridge 40. The lower part of the intermediate overhang area 43 is connected to the flange part 24 of the side wall part 21g of the housing 21.
The structure is configured to slidably engage and be oriented by the flange portion 24 such that the flange portion 24 of the side wall portion 21g allows the cartridge 40 to Entrance 3
4 to a predetermined position relative to the housing (as shown in FIG. 8). When the cartridge 40 is inserted into the inlet of the compounder (see FIGS. 1 and 8), the cartridge 40 descends under the action of gravity and attaches to the flange portion 24. The lower peripheral side wall portion 42a of the lower peripheral side wall portion 42a is fixedly engaged with the first lower wall portion 21c of the housing 21, and the lowering thereof stops. When the cartridge 40 is positioned in such a fixed, predetermined anchoring position, the upper peripheral side wall portion 44a located at the “top” portion of the anchored cartridge 40 is connected to the flange portion 24;
It cooperatively engages the upper wall 21 f of the housing 21 and thereby prevents liquid spray from exiting from the upper spray area 30 a of the inner cavity 30 through the inlet 32 . In the embodiments shown in the figures, the cartridge itself is used in conjunction with a safety switch device (described below), thereby
Although the nozzle spray is within the internal cavity, other closure means such as elastomeric seals, shields, deflectors, sliding closures, or hinged doors or lids (not shown) are provided.
These are the internal cavity 30 of the housing 21.
It can be used to perform nozzle spray inside.

A semicircular protrusion 44b constituting a handle is formed at the upper part of the upper peripheral side wall 44a, and by inserting the index finger or middle finger into the hollow part of the handle, the cartridge 40 can be held or removed from the housing 21. This makes it easy to remove the cartridge 40.

1 and 8, a conduit 60 is secured to the upper wall 21f of the housing 21 and extends through the wall to the internal cavity 3.
0 into the upper spray area 30a. Said nozzle 61 is suitably secured by screwing or otherwise to the end of the conduit 60 extending into the internal cavity 30 and is positioned therein; Then,
Substantially the entire exposed surface of each block of detergent detergent in the various receiver chambers of cartridge 40 is directed to be sprayed with a predetermined spray pattern.
The nozzle 61 is oriented within the internal cavity 30 relative to the "fixed" position of the cartridge 40 such that a longitudinal spray axis 62 from the nozzle directs a solid block of detergent. It is adapted to be positioned substantially perpendicular to the exposed surface 100a of the mixture 100. The spray nozzle applies a pressurized spray of aqueous liquid (preferably water) delivered via conduit 60 to a solid block, which is held captive by cartridge 40, in a predetermined pattern. The pattern can be any suitable sprayable configuration that is designed to directly impinge on substantially all exposed surfaces of the detergent. In the embodiment of the invention shown in each figure, a particular spray nozzle produces a so-called "square" spray pattern (when viewed in a plane approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal spray axis 62), and the nozzle emits radiation from the nozzle. The spray pattern can be directed not only to the exposed surface of the detergent solid block held captive by the second receptacle-shaped container 47, but also to substantially the entire exposed surface 100a. It's becoming like that. Conduit 60 extends through siphon breaker 63 and, in operation,
It is connected to a suitably pressurized water source, typically in the range of 5 psi to 70 psi. A safety valve 64 (FIG. 9), preferably a solenoid valve, is inserted between the nozzle 61 and the pressurized water source to selectively control the flow of water through the conduit 60 to the nozzle 61. (See Figure 9).

A safety switch device 70 is mounted within the housing 21 to enable sensing of the operative position of the cartridge 40 within the internal cavity 30. The safety switch device 70 comprises a reed switch member mounted in a fixed position within the collection area 30b within the internal cavity 30 using a mounting bracket 71 (see FIG. 8).

An encapsulated magnet 72 is inserted into the upper peripheral side wall 44a of the cartridge 40 and supported. The position of the magnet 72 and the reed switch 70 are located opposite to each other.
The reed switch 70 controls the magnetic flux of the magnet only when the cartridge 40 is fully received in the predetermined fixed position (as shown in FIG. 8) within the internal cavity 30 of the housing 21. It is then activated. in this case,
The inlet 32 of the housing 21 is substantially closed off by a cartridge 40 that is in place. Referring to FIG. 9, reed switch 7
0 is activated by magnet 72;
Thereby, using signal transmission line 73 (and using all other suitable circuit means (not shown)), safety valve 64 is energized, whereupon:
The safety valve 64 is opened. As a result, the cartridge 40 is inserted into the internal cavity 30 of the housing 21.
The pressurized liquid will flow only when it is fixed at the predetermined position within. When the magnet 72 is removed from operational association with the reed switch 70, the reed switch becomes de-energized and provides the appropriate energization (or de-energization) signal to the safety valve 64 and the conduit 60.
The flow of pressurized liquid through to the nozzle 61 is blocked.

Although we have explained the specific arrangement of the safety control switch and the point of selectively blocking the flow of pressurized liquid to the nozzle 61, there are many ways in which such a safety switch mechanism can be devised. It should be understood that although these are possible, these also fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, mechanical switch modes of operation could be employed, such as microswitches, and also optical sensors, mercury switch sensors,
Alternatively, pure frame sensing and valve actuation means such as mechanical linkages could be used. Furthermore, since the main purpose of such a safety control means is to prevent the spray ejected from the nozzle 61 from accidentally blowing out to the outside from the inlet 32, the relative positioning method of such a switch detection means is not discussed. It can be easily modified by the manufacturer to achieve the intended purpose.

Operation of the Preferred Embodiment The operation of the solid detergent mixer according to the present invention is relatively simple and is summarized as follows. Fourth
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 9-9, a cartridge 40 holds a detergent mixture in solid blocks, and once the solid detergent in the cartridge is removed by the atomizing action in the dispenser. Once extinguished, the cartridge itself is designed as a disposable item that can be quickly removed from the housing and discarded. In a preferred embodiment, the solid block of detergent mixture 100 held captive by the first receiver-shaped container 46 is formed into a solid block within the first receiver-shaped container 46 during its manufacture. , a solid cast block of detergent, or can be cut from a larger mass of detergent to fit the captive shape of the first receptacle-shaped container 46 . Detergent 100 includes the primary detergent compounds (generally highly alkaline materials) required for the washing operation of the washing machine in which the detergent dispenser is used.

A second receptacle-shaped container 47 contains a relatively smaller charge of detergent formed in the form of a tablet or pellet. Preferred dishwashing applications for detergent mixers (i.e. dishwashing applications)
So, the solid block detergent tablet 103 is as follows.
When composed of calcium hypochlorite or other active chlorine source and comes into contact with an aqueous solution, chlorine delivery begins. The tablets may also contain defoaming detergent compounds or
Or maybe it's all taken up. Alternatively, if desired, chlorine and/or defoamer compounds may also be included in the larger detergent 100 and the tablets in the second receptacle-shaped container 47. Both may be mixed together in the form of a solid detergent 100, and may also be formed as a separate insert or core within a larger solid detergent 100.
It may also be formed as a separate solid block within either the first receptacle type container 46 or the second receptacle type container 47. In general, the selection of the density and composition of the detergent bars contained within a single cartridge 40 and the relative size of the detergent bars are determined by the nozzle spray onto the exposed surfaces of the detergent bars. When
such that the appropriate desired mixture results.
Selections are made and dimensions are made. Also,
The specific finish of each solid detergent is such that the solubility of each mass is somewhat even, so that all receptacles of cartridge 40 are generally evenly distributed. It will become empty.

How to load cartridge 40 into the compounding machine:
It is simple and relatively foolproof.
The operator grasps the full cartridge 40 using the protrusion 44b that constitutes the handle and simply aligns its forward end (i.e., portions 44a, 43a, and 42a) with the inlet 32 of the compounder housing 21. Then, a cartridge member 40 is dropped into the inlet 32, as shown in the figures. The flange portion 24 of the side wall portion 21g of the housing 21 is connected to the cartridge 4.
0, thereby automatically and cooperatively engaging the corresponding intermediate overhang region 43 of the housing 2.
Cartridge 40 in internal cavity 30 of 1
is slidably guided and positioned so that the large surface 100a of the solid detergent 100 is fully inserted into the housing 21 and in a predetermined fixed position relative to the nozzle 61. When established, it becomes stable.

If the operator were to accidentally fall and turn the cartridge 40 upside down or backwards,
When inserted into the inlet 32, the cartridge 40 does not properly engage the flange 24 of the side wall 21g of the housing 21 due to its unique structure. It is possible to prevent the vehicle from descending toward a predetermined position within the vehicle.

When the cartridge 40 becomes seated in a predetermined position within the internal cavity 30 of the housing 21, the magnet 72 is in a cooperatively operative position with the reed switch 70, thereby opening the safety valve. 64 will open a path for liquid flow through conduit 60 to nozzle 61. In the unlikely event that the cartridge 40 is inserted upside down into the entrance, or if it is also inserted backwards, the magnet 72
is the operating band of the reed switch 70, or
It is impossible to fall into the so-called "safe" neighborhood band. Therefore, under such conditions, the reed switch 70 and associated circuitry (not shown) connected thereto act to route the nozzle 61 through the conduit 60.
the safety valve 6 so as to prevent the flow of liquid to the
4 is energized. Therefore, cartridge 4
0 in the original orientation and orientation of the housing 21
The spray exiting the nozzle 61 is blocked unless and until the entire house is inserted into the internal cavity 30 of the inlet 32.
This prevents potentially dangerous spray from escaping. Once the cartridge 40 is fully inserted into the housing 21 and secured to the predetermined fixed position, the cartridge 40 will be exposed to the upper and lower peripheral sidewalls 44 and 42 of the member, as well as the intermediate overhang area. 4
3, the spray from the nozzle 61 reaches the inlet 32.
This will prevent dangerous balloons from popping out.

Once the cartridge 40 is properly inserted into the predetermined fixed position within the internal cavity 30, it is held captive within the cartridge 40 by various receptacles.
The solid detergent mass is dissolved by a pressurized spray exiting from nozzle 61 at a predetermined rate.
Pressurized water is supplied to the nozzle 61 when commanded by suitable control means within the washing machine itself using this detergent mixer. For example, if a method based on "requirements" is adopted,
In U.S. Patent No. 3,680,070, issued to Nystuen,
An electronic control network, such as that described in 2003, which is owned by the common assignee of the present invention, connects the nozzle 6
1 could be used to selectively supply pressurized water to 1. Alternatively, hydraulic bypass techniques, as described above, could be employed, as well as any other suitable control mechanism.

As soon as the flow of pressurized liquid flows into the nozzle 61,
Once applied, the nozzle produces a spray pattern of predetermined form. This spray pattern is applied to the upper exposed surface 10 of the detergent bar 100 as well as to the exposed surface of the detergent bar tablet 103 contained within the second receptacle-shaped container 47.
It is evenly directed over substantially the entirety of 0a. The spray pattern passes through the mesh of the screen member 50 and directly impinges on the exposed surfaces of the detergent bars held captive, using the hydraulic action of the spray itself to spread the detergent bars at each exposed surface. A portion of it will be dissolved. After hitting the exposed surface 100a of the detergent 100,
The spray (already converting to a liquid) flows down the exposed surface 100a by gravity and further dissolves the detergent at the exposed surface 100a by erosive action. As soon as the concentrated solution reaches the connecting wall 50c of the screen member 50, it cascades over and inside the solid detergent tablet 103 held in the second receptacle-shaped container 47. and then dissolves the appropriate predetermined amount of chlorine or defoamer components, all of which will flow down in solution form into the lower collection area 30b of the housing 21 as a concentrated detergent solution. . The "collected" concentrated detergent solution flows by gravity through the outlet 34 and extension 35 and into a suitable conduit or wash tank below. Now it can be used in washing machines. In addition to the erosive action of the solution passing through the exposed surface 100a of the detergent bar 100, the tablets of detergent bar contained within the second receptacle-shaped container 47 are also subject to the hydraulic action of the spray sprayed from the nozzle 61. It dissolves slowly.

Although the present invention is applied to such a form of blending machine in which the nozzle 61 is mounted below the exposed surface, it is possible to position the nozzle 61 in a position so as to cover the solid detergent to be dissolved. , or the exposed surface of the detergent bar at an angle to the horizontal (preferably between 10 degrees and 90 degrees);
Such positioning and arrangement are generally preferred, and they thereby supplement hydraulic dissolution with erosive dissolution caused by solution running down exposed surfaces. In the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in each figure, approximately
The slope of the exposed surface 100a of 60 degrees provides adequate residence time for the flowing water, while providing a sufficiently small response time for the dispenser (i.e., immediately after being sprayed from the nozzle 61, its Most of the concentrated detergent solution produced by the injection is transferred to the outlet 34.
It is known that the elapsed time from the time of release to the time of release can be maintained.

Parts 44a and 42a of the upper and lower peripheral side walls of the cartridge 40 as well as the housing 2
The first lower wall 21c of 1 is slightly inclined with respect to the horizontal plane (when the blender and enclosed cartridge member are mounted in the use position), thereby allowing all liquid from the blender to Allows the solution to be drained (either sprayed concentrate or synthetic concentrated detergent solution). When any liquid comes into contact with these surfaces, it is directed towards the collection area 30b of the internal cavity 30.

Whenever the fixed detergent charge contained in the various receptacles of the cartridge 40 is exhausted, the empty cartridge is slidably removed from the interior cavity 30 through the inlet 32 and By simply replacing the cartridge from , with a fully loaded cartridge 40, the cartridge can be quickly replaced. As discussed earlier, prior to replacing the cartridge,
A disposable cartridge that is physically refillable within the housing 21. (Conceivable) In the use of such reusable cartridges, the highly caustic detergent contained within the cartridge is packaged with a water-soluble covering such as polyvinyl alcohol, and thereby used to fill the cartridge. It is desirable to protect the hands of workers handling solid detergents. Instead, the cartridge 40 is a detention means forming part of the overall portion of the housing 21 and in a desired predetermined position relative to the nozzle spray pattern.
It could be replaced by suitable receptacle restraining means capable of retaining a charge of solid detergent at will.

The cartridge 40 shown in each figure has a housing 2
Although the cartridge is shown as fully insertable within the interior cavity 30 of 1, other compounder housing constructions may be employed within the scope of the present invention. In that case, the inlet 32 would include a cavity or hole in one or more walls of the housing 21 and the structure of the cartridge would be an integral part of the housing itself. Thereby, when the cartridge itself is properly clamped in place, i.e., properly positioned at a predetermined fixed fixing position, the cartridge itself will be removed from the nozzle 61. This will prevent the risk of the injected spray escaping out of the inlet 32, and furthermore, other constructions of dispensing devices made in accordance with the principles of the invention may include a door or auxiliary closing means for the inlet 32. could also be adopted. Also, each of the inlet 32 and the outlet 34 could practically include the same opening, for example in a "bottom loading" compounding device.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a solid detergent blending machine to which the cartridge of the present invention can be installed, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge of one embodiment, and FIG.
A fourth perspective view showing a modified example of the cartridge receiver.
The figures are a top plan view of the solid detergent mixer disclosed in FIG. 1, FIG. 5 is a partially cutaway front view of the solid detergent mixer disclosed in FIG. The figures are a bottom plan view of the solid detergent blending machine disclosed in FIG. 1, FIG. 7 is a side view of the solid detergent blending machine disclosed in FIG. 1, and FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of the solid detergent blending machine disclosed in FIG. FIG. 9 is a sectional view of the solid detergent blending machine taken along line 8-8 in the same figure. 10 are partial views of a portion of the solid detergent blending machine disclosed in FIG. 8, thereby explaining the features of the solid detergent preparation held by the cartridge. This shows another example. 20... Detergent blending machine, 40... Cartridge,
50...Screen member.

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1. A cartridge for solid block detergent, which is used by being inserted into a detergent blending machine for converting solid block detergent into a concentrated detergent solution, and has the following configuration. (a) a receptacle having a bottom surface and a peripheral side wall projecting outwardly from said bottom surface and defining an outer periphery of said receptacle; The receiver engages and retains the detergent mass in such a way as to expose at least one large surface, where the exposed surface is
overlapping and disposed above the surface of the bottom receptacle. (b) a screen member mounted on the receiver so as to substantially cover the entire exposed surface of the detergent mass held in the receiver, the screen member being adapted to cover substantially the entire exposed surface of the detergent mass held in the receiver; It has a mesh that prevents large particles from leaving the receptacle and allows relatively unhindered passage of the liquid jetted to dissolve the detergent mass onto the exposed surface of the detergent mass. 2. An insertable cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising means for removably mounting the screen member on the receiver so that the detergent mass can be refilled in the receiver. 3. The insertable cartridge of claim 1, wherein the screen member is permanently adhered to the receptacle. 4. The receptacle is formed by a mold, and the detergent mass retained by the receptacle includes solid cast detergent poured into the mold during detergent manufacture. The insertable cartridge according to paragraph 1. 5. The insertable cartridge of claim 1, wherein said receptacle includes handle means. 6. The receiver has a partition that divides the interior into at least two separably different first and second receiver parts, each receiver part being relatively fixed to the receiver part. 2. An insertable cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the insertable cartridge retains a detergent mass in position. 7. The insertable cartridge of claim 6, wherein the partition is formed by a porous wall member. 8 said second receptacle portion is mounted to a peripheral wall of said first receptacle portion and is spaced apart in a plane generally parallel to said plane of said first receptacle bottom surface; 8. The insertable cartridge of claim 7 having a bottom surface disposed in spaced apart planes. 9. The wall member separating the first and second receptacle portions comprises a portion of the screen member, and the screen member
9. An insertable cartridge according to claim 8, overlying both the and second receptacle portion. 10. The insertable cartridge of claim 1, wherein the peripheral sidewall of the receptacle has a slope to prevent liquid from accumulating within the receptacle. 11 the bottom surface of the receptacle further has first and second bottom surfaces, and the peripheral wall and the first and second bottom surfaces are arranged to form a first and a second bottom surface of the detergent mass. The first and second receiver portions that hold the two lumps in a separable manner in a separable manner are limited to work together, and the first and second receivers are the first mass is positioned relative to each other and such that the spray applied to the first mass flows by gravity over the exposed surface of the second mass. 2. The insertable cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the receptacle portion is located relatively higher than the second receptacle portion.