HK40074632A - Liquid supply system - Google Patents

Description

Liquid supply system

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a liquid supply system for supplying liquid to one or more liquid dispensers.

Background

Liquid dispensers, such as soap dispensers, are commonly provided in toilets, kitchens and other public facilities. The dispenser may be wall mounted or cabinet mounted and is typically supplied with liquid, such as soap, from a reservoir.

When the dispenser is used, the amount of soap in the reservoir is depleted and therefore needs to be replenished. In some systems, the reservoir is open and may be refilled by pouring additional soap from a separate reservoir. Such a system may be unsanitary due to the openness of the reservoir.

In other systems, the reservoir is a collapsible cartridge that can be replaced with a new cartridge when needed. Although these are generally considered to be more hygienic, in practice, the collapsible cartridge is usually replaced before it is completely emptied. A significant drawback of such cartridge-based systems is therefore the waste of liquid due to refilling before the currently installed cartridge is completely exhausted. The time of exhaustion is often unknown and unpredictable. Refilling at a point of use-up may be inconvenient, particularly when the liquid dispenser is subsequently temporarily provided, and may be unacceptable depending on the application, using a cartridge to be replaced. Liquid dispensers are often refilled during nighttime movement by a cleaner or other service provider. Thus, attempts are made to set the refill frequency and container volume so that the liquid dispenser will not be depleted and temporarily rendered inoperable during ordinary use or even heavy use. But replacing the cartridge before it is exhausted undesirably results in wasted liquid. This not only results in increased costs, but also results in unnecessary disposal or waste that is not in line with the need to promote reduced impact on the environment, otherwise known as environmentally friendly.

In another system, the primary reservoir and the secondary reservoir are arranged to supply liquid to the dispenser. The use of both the main reservoir and the auxiliary reservoir allows the main reservoir to be replaced when empty without affecting the supply of liquid to the end user, as the auxiliary reservoir continues to supply additional liquid to the user. A disadvantage of this system is that the relatively large liquid reservoir needs to be replaced. Transporting such large volumes of liquid can be expensive and have an environmental impact. This is also time consuming and cumbersome for the washroom operator.

In any of the above systems, refilling or replacing the reservoir or replacing the cartridge in a counter-mounted dispensing system is often ergonomically challenging because access to the reservoir or cartridge under the counter is often limited. Cleaning staff will typically have to remove the access panel or lay on the floor under the counter in order to be able to replace the used cartridge or refill the reservoir.

Accordingly, the present disclosure seeks to overcome or at least mitigate the problems of the prior art.

Disclosure of Invention

In a first aspect, there is provided a liquid supply system for supplying liquid to one or more liquid dispensers, the system comprising:

a. a water source for supplying water to the system;

b. a concentrate reservoir for supplying concentrate to the system; and

c. a liquid reservoir coupled to the water source and the concentrate reservoir and configured to be coupled to one or more liquid dispensers;

wherein, in use, the liquid reservoir is configured to supply liquid to the or each dispenser and to be replenished via the water source and the concentrate reservoir.

Water from a water source and concentrate from a concentrate reservoir are mixed in the system to produce a liquid. For example, the concentrate can be a soap concentrate, and the liquid can be soap (i.e., a diluted soap concentrate). As used herein, the term "soap" is intended to include any liquid detergent or cleaning product suitable for dispensing from a liquid dispenser.

The liquid reservoir is coupled to a water source and a concentrate reservoir such that the liquid reservoir may be filled with a liquid (e.g., a diluted concentrate) that is mixed in the liquid reservoir itself or elsewhere in the system before reaching the liquid reservoir. The liquid from the liquid reservoir may then be supplied to one or more liquid dispensers when desired by the user. In this way, an in situ diluted concentrate is provided.

In some embodiments, the liquid in the liquid reservoir is formed by mixing a concentrate with water. Since the mixing of the concentrate and water occurs before the liquid reaches the dispenser, the dispenser itself does not need to mix the concentrate and water. Any suitable type of dispenser may be used. In this way, a more flexible system is provided.

The liquid dispenser releases liquid upon actuation by a user. There are various configurations of liquid dispensers. The liquid may be dispensed in a discrete or continuous manner. The liquid dispensed may be soap, shampoo, other hand sanitizers or lotions, cleansers, and the like. The liquid dispenser may be manual, e.g. an operator pushes a lever, or may be automatic, e.g. activated upon motion detection. Liquid dispensers are used in a wide variety of applications and include dispensing soap in bathrooms, dispensing soap or shampoo in showers and bathrooms, using disinfection dispensers in operating or treatment rooms, factory disinfection facilities, school restaurants, and the like. Liquid dispensers may use antibacterial soap and are often used for hygiene and anti-infection purposes.

The liquid dispenser may be wall mounted and may be judiciously positioned to conveniently serve multiple operators for sanitation in critical locations, such as prior to entering a restaurant, in a toilet, upon entering and being within a patient's room, or prior to operating in an operating room.

The liquid dispenser may be arranged to dispense the liquid in any suitable form, for example a liquid, a foam, a spray or any other suitable form.

Advantageously, the use of a foam dispenser enables the use of thinner liquids (i.e. the use of less viscous liquids). A lower viscosity liquid will flow more easily through the system, reducing the likelihood of plugging the tubing. This lower viscosity liquid may then foam upon dispensing, providing a more acceptable dispensed product for the user.

In the systems disclosed herein, the arrangement of the liquid supply system with a water supply and a concentrate supply enables the liquid reservoir to be refilled or replenished with liquid as needed. In other words, the liquid from the liquid reservoir is depleted by use of the dispenser and the liquid reservoir is automatically replenished with liquid provided by mixing water from the water source with concentrate from the concentrate reservoir.

The liquid reservoir does not require a separate refilling action, such as by a cleaner. Instead, the system automatically supplements the liquid reservoir with liquid for dispensing to the user. There is no need to disconnect the liquid reservoir from the dispenser and move it to another location (e.g., a refill station) for refilling. Nor is it necessary to carry or transport the refill device or replace the liquid reservoir (e.g., cartridge) to the location of the liquid reservoir. Thus, there is no need to supply alternative dilute liquids.

In this way, the need to provide the location of the liquid reservoir with primarily water-based product is avoided. Thus, long distance transport from the manufacturing plant to the end-use point and the environmental impact of such transport are avoided. This is possible because there is no need to pre-mix the diluted concentrate to refill the liquid reservoir. Instead, the system enables the concentrate and water to be mixed through the system itself to replenish the liquid reservoir.

A liquid reservoir with a larger volume is possible, since the liquid reservoir may be refilled in situ. Thus, a single liquid reservoir may serve an increased number of liquid dispensers. On the other hand, since the liquid reservoir is automatically refilled by the system, a liquid reservoir having a smaller volume may be used. This provides a flexible system in which the volume of the liquid reservoir can be selected as appropriate depending on the available space and based on the frequency of use of the liquid dispenser.

In an exemplary embodiment, the volume of the liquid reservoir may be 250ml or less. In an exemplary embodiment, the liquid reservoir may have a volume of between 250ml and 1 litre, such as 500ml, such as 750 ml. In exemplary embodiments, the volume of the liquid reservoir may be 1 liter or more, for example 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 liters. In an exemplary embodiment, the liquid reservoir may have a volume of greater than 50 liters. In an exemplary embodiment, the volume of the liquid reservoir may be any suitable volume.

When the concentrate reservoir is depleted, it may be replaced or refilled. Since the liquid reservoir is automatically refilled, there will still be a supply of liquid in the liquid reservoir even when the concentrate liquid reservoir is depleted, and the liquid reservoir may be provided to the dispenser as needed. Thus, there is no interruption in the supply of liquid to the dispenser. Liquid is always available because the liquid reservoir is filled or refilled as needed.

In the systems disclosed herein, only the concentrate reservoir will need to be replaced or refilled when depleted. The concentrate reservoir will require less replacement than a reservoir having a similar volume of diluted concentrate, thus reducing the impact of any ergonomic limitations in refilling or replacing the concentrate reservoir.

Furthermore, the concentrate reservoir may be relatively small in volume, as it contains concentrated liquid and is therefore easier to transport. This greatly reduces the environmental impact associated with delivering liquid for liquid dispensing. In particular, the use of a replaceable concentrate reservoir eliminates the need to transport "ready-to-use" liquids (e.g., diluted soap) that include a large water component, and thus reduces time, cost, and environmental impact.

Furthermore, the relatively small volume of the concentrate reservoir means that the concentrate reservoir is easier to handle for carrying and more convenient to store. For example, multiple replacement concentrate reservoirs may be carried by an operator, such as on a cart, which means that fewer strokes to a storage area must be made on a liquid dispenser refill cycle. This configuration is low in complexity and therefore can reduce operating costs.

Since the liquid reservoir is automatically refilled or replenished by the system and only the concentrate reservoir needs to be refilled or replaced, the liquid reservoir does not need to be opened to allow refilling. This eliminates or reduces hygiene problems that may arise when the reservoir is opened.

Optionally, the liquid reservoir is directly or indirectly fixed to the water source.

In other words, the liquid reservoir is connected to the water source. In other words, the liquid reservoir is firmly fixed to the water source. In this way, a continuous supply of water is provided. The liquid reservoir need not be moved from its position in order to introduce water. Similarly, there is no need to deliver water to the liquid reservoir for refilling. Advantageously, this allows the liquid reservoir to be refilled from a standard water outlet when required.

Optionally, the liquid reservoir is configured to be secured directly or indirectly to the or each liquid dispenser.

In other words, the liquid reservoir is configured to be securely fixed to the or each liquid dispenser in use. This ensures a continuous supply of liquid from the liquid reservoir to the or each liquid dispenser. Even when the concentrate reservoir is depleted, liquid will still be supplied from the liquid reservoir until the concentrate is replaced. Thus, in normal use, the supply to the or each liquid dispenser will not be interrupted.

Optionally, the liquid reservoir is provided at a given position in which the liquid reservoir is configured to supply liquid to the or each liquid dispenser, wherein the system is configured such that the liquid reservoir remains at the given position when the liquid reservoir is replenished.

In other words, the liquid reservoir does not move from its position for refilling. This ensures that a continuous supply of liquid to the dispenser is provided.

Optionally, the system comprises a sensor configured to detect a fill level status of the liquid reservoir, wherein the system is configured to replenish the liquid reservoir in response to feedback from the sensor.

In this way, the liquid reservoir is replenished when needed, based on feedback from the sensor.

Optionally, the sensor is configured to detect when the liquid reservoir is empty, when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined minimum fill level, when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir has reached a predetermined maximum fill level, and/or when the liquid reservoir is full.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor is configured to detect when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined minimum fill level. In some embodiments, the predetermined fill level corresponds to a level above an outlet for supplying liquid to the or each dispenser. In this way, air does not enter the outlet even when the liquid level in the liquid reservoir is at its lowest level.

Optionally, the sensor is configured to detect when the liquid reservoir is empty or the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined minimum amount, wherein the system is configured such that replenishment of the liquid reservoir via the water source and the concentrate liquid reservoir is triggered when the sensor detects that the liquid reservoir is empty or the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below the predetermined minimum amount.

In this way, the liquid reservoir is replenished when the liquid reservoir is empty or when the amount of liquid remaining in the liquid reservoir is low. This ensures that liquid is available to the dispenser.

Optionally, the sensor is configured to detect when the liquid reservoir is full or when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir has reached the predetermined maximum amount or a predetermined maximum amount, wherein the system is configured such that replenishment of the liquid reservoir via the water source and the concentrate reservoir is stopped when the sensor detects that the liquid reservoir is full or when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir has reached the predetermined maximum amount.

In this way, overfilling of the liquid reservoir is avoided.

Optionally, the sensor comprises a pressure sensor, a fill level switch and/or a float switch.

In an exemplary embodiment, any suitable sensor or combination of sensors may be used.

Optionally, the sensor comprises a plurality of sensors.

For example, the system may include a first sensor for detecting when the liquid reservoir is empty and a second sensor for detecting when the liquid reservoir is full. For example, the system may include a first sensor configured to detect when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined minimum amount, and a second sensor configured to detect when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir has reached a predetermined maximum amount. Any suitable combination of sensors may be used, as will be appreciated. For example, any suitable combination of sensors may be used to ensure that the liquid reservoir is refilled when needed and not overfilled with liquid.

Optionally, the liquid reservoir comprises:

a. at least one inlet via which the liquid reservoir is replenished, and

b. at least one outlet for supplying liquid to the or each dispenser.

In this manner, the liquid reservoir is allowed to be dispensed and refilled simultaneously from the liquid reservoir. Thus, the liquid supply to the liquid distributor is not interrupted.

Optionally, the liquid reservoir comprises a single inlet coupled to both the concentrate reservoir and the water source.

For example, water from the water source and concentrate from the concentrate reservoir may be mixed prior to entering the liquid reservoir or as they enter the liquid reservoir.

In some embodiments, the inlet of the liquid reservoir is coupled to a water source via a supply line, and the concentrate reservoir is coupled to the supply line. In some embodiments, the concentrate from the concentrate reservoir may be introduced into the flow of water in the supply line. Turbulent motion of the water in the supply line can cause the concentrate to mix with the water, diluting the concentrate. Thus, the mixing of the concentrate with the water through the supply line is automated and advantageously does not require additional complex (e.g., mechanical) mixing equipment.

Optionally, the inlet of the liquid reservoir is coupled to a water source via a supply line and the concentrate reservoir is coupled to the supply line via a dosing mechanism, wherein the dosing mechanism is configured to supply a quantity of concentrate from the concentrate reservoir to the supply line.

This ensures that the appropriate amount of concentrate is supplied for mixing with the supplied water. In some examples, the concentrate and water mix at least to some extent in the supply line. The dosing mechanism may be configured to control the extent to which the concentrate is diluted with water in the supply line. This ensures that the liquid reservoir is refilled with a solution of the desired concentration. Advantageously, this may ensure that the concentration is not too high, which may lead to wastage of concentrate and increased costs. It is also ensured that the concentration is not too low which may result in the solution dispensed from the liquid dispenser being ineffective in killing pathogens.

In some embodiments, the concentrate and water are mixed in a concentrate: the water is mixed in a ratio of 1:20 and 1: 5. For example, between 1:15 and 1:5, for example 1: 9.

In some embodiments, the concentrate and water are mixed in a concentrate: the water is mixed in a ratio of 1:300 and 1: 2. For example, concentrate: the ratio of water is 1:4, 1:8, 1:16, 1:32, 1:64, 1:128, 1: 256.

In some embodiments, the liquid reservoir includes a plurality of inlets. For example, the liquid reservoir may include a first water inlet and a second soap concentrate inlet, wherein the inlets are separate and distinct from each other.

Optionally, the liquid reservoir is directly or indirectly fixed to the supply line.

In other words, the reservoir is firmly fixed to the supply line.

Optionally, the dosing mechanism comprises a venturi element.

In this manner, flow along the supply line draws concentrate from the concentrate reservoir into the supply line.

Optionally, the dosing mechanism comprises a rotary dosing pump.

Optionally, the supply line comprises a pump for controlling the flow through the supply line.

This is particularly advantageous in the case of venturi elements being used to ensure sufficient flow through the supply line.

Optionally, the system comprises a first concentrate reservoir and a second concentrate reservoir, wherein the system is configured such that the liquid reservoir is fluidly communicable with the first concentrate reservoir or the second concentrate reservoir such that concentrate can be supplied to the system from the first concentrate reservoir or the second concentrate reservoir.

In other words, the supply of concentrate may come from the first or second concentrate reservoir. The first and second concentrate reservoirs are interchangeably in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir such that the supply of concentrate can be switched between the two.

In an exemplary embodiment, the system includes more than two concentrate reservoirs. For example, the system may include 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more concentrate reservoirs.

In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include a single concentrate reservoir.

Optionally, the system comprises a control mechanism configured to determine when the concentrate reservoir supplying the liquid reservoir is depleted and to switch the supply of concentrate to another concentrate reservoir.

For example, when the liquid reservoir is in fluid communication with the first concentrate reservoir, the control mechanism detects when the first concentrate reservoir is depleted, e.g., empty. The control mechanism then switches the supply of concentrate to the second concentrate reservoir. In this case, the system is configured such that the second concentrate reservoir is in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir. This facilitates the uninterrupted supply of concentrate to the liquid reservoir. Furthermore, since the system is less likely to run out of concentrate, the concentrate reservoir or cartridge need not be replaced until completely empty. This reduces waste and will have the effect of reducing the number of replacement concentrate reservoirs or refills required.

In an exemplary embodiment, in the case of a system including a single concentrate reservoir, the system includes a control mechanism configured to determine when the concentrate reservoir is depleted. The system may be configured to stop the replenishment of the liquid reservoir when the concentrate reservoir is depleted until the concentrate reservoir has been replaced or refilled.

In an exemplary embodiment, in the case of a system including a plurality of concentrate reservoirs, the system includes a control mechanism configured to determine when all of the concentrate reservoirs are depleted. The system may be configured to stop replenishing the concentrate reservoirs when all of the concentrate reservoirs are depleted until at least one of the concentrate reservoirs has been replaced or refilled.

In an exemplary embodiment, the system comprises a header tank configured to supply liquid to the or each dispenser when required. The header tank may be disposed between the dispenser and the liquid reservoir. This may be advantageous, for example, when the liquid reservoir is replenished, and/or when the replenishment of the liquid reservoir has ceased (e.g., awaiting refilling or replacement of the concentrate reservoir) and the liquid level in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined minimum amount.

Optionally, the water source is a tap water supply.

Optionally, the liquid reservoir is foldable or has a rigid structure.

Optionally, the system is airtight.

For example, in case the liquid reservoir is collapsible, the system may also be airtight. This reduces the likelihood of any hygiene and contamination problems.

Optionally, the system is configured to replenish the liquid reservoir via batch filling or continuous filling.

For example, in batch refill, the liquid reservoir may be allowed to consume a predetermined amount before it is subsequently refilled. For example, in continuous refill, the liquid reservoir may be continuously replenished as the liquid reservoir is depleted through use of the liquid dispenser.

Optionally, the system comprises one or more liquid dispensers coupled to the liquid reservoir.

The liquid dispenser may be through a counter or a wall mounted dispenser.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a soap supply system for supplying soap to one or more dispensers, the system comprising:

a. a water source for supplying water to the system;

b. a soap concentrate reservoir for supplying soap concentrate to the system; and

c. a soap reservoir coupled to the water source and the concentrate reservoir and configured to be coupled to one or more soap dispensers;

wherein, in use, the soap reservoir is configured to supply soap to the or each dispenser and to be replenished via the water source and soap concentrate reservoir.

Within the scope of the present application, it is expressly contemplated that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, claims and/or in the following description and drawings, particularly the various features thereof, may be made independently or in any combination. That is, all of the implementations and/or features of any of the implementations may be combined in any manner and/or combination unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or to file any new claim accordingly, including amending any originally filed claim to depend from and/or to incorporate any feature of any other claim, even if not originally claimed in such a way.

Drawings

Embodiments disclosed herein will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a liquid supply system according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a liquid supply system according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a liquid supply system according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a liquid supply system according to a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a liquid supply system according to a fifth embodiment; and

fig. 6 is a schematic view of a liquid supply system according to a sixth embodiment.

Detailed Description

Referring to fig. 1, a liquid supply system, such as a soap supply system, is shown and generally designated 2. The system comprises a water source 4 arranged to supply water to the system, and two concentrate reservoirs (e.g. soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6b) for supplying concentrate (e.g. soap concentrate) to the system.

As shown in fig. 1, system 2 also includes a liquid reservoir, such as a soap reservoir 8 coupled to water source 4 and soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6 b. The soap reservoir 8 is coupled to a series of liquid dispensers, such as soap dispenser 10. In use, the soap reservoir 8 is configured to supply liquid (e.g., soap) to the dispenser 10. In addition, soap reservoir 8 is replenished with soap via water source 4 and soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6 b.

In the drawings, the fluid flow lines are shown by solid lines and the information communication lines are shown by broken lines.

The soap reservoir 8 is connected to the water source 4. In other words, the soap reservoir 8 is fixed to the water source 4 such that the soap reservoir 8 cannot be easily disconnected from the water source 4.

Similarly, the soap reservoir 8 is secured to a series of soap dispensers 10. In other words, the soap reservoir 8 is coupled to the soap dispenser 10 such that the soap dispenser 10 and the soap reservoir 8 cannot be easily disconnected.

The soap reservoir 8 is configured such that it remains in place both during dispensing of soap into the soap dispenser 10 and during replenishment of the soap reservoir 8 via the water source 4 and soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6 b.

The soap reservoir 8 includes an inlet 16 through which the soap reservoir 8 is replenished, and an outlet 18 for supplying soap to the dispenser 10.

The outlet 18 is coupled to a series of soap dispensers 10 via a manifold 20, the manifold 20 including a dedicated outlet 22, the dedicated outlet 22 being coupled to each of the dispensers 10 via a respective supply line 24. Each of the supply lines 24 includes a check valve 26 to prevent back flushing into the soap reservoir 8. In some embodiments, a single outlet is provided from the manifold, which splits downstream into a series of dedicated supply lines 24 corresponding to each dispenser 10.

The inlet 16 of the soap reservoir 8 is coupled to the water source 4 via another supply line 28. The soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6b are coupled to the supply line 28 via a dosing mechanism 30. The dosing mechanism 30 is arranged to supply a quantity of soap concentrate from the soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6b to the supply line 28. In this manner, soap concentrate is added to the water source to produce diluted soap for replenishing the soap reservoir 8.

The soap reservoir 8 is secured to the supply line so that the supply line is not easily released or removed from the reservoir 8.

The soap supply system 2 includes a sensor configured to detect a fill level condition of the soap reservoir 8. The system 2 is configured to replenish the soap reservoir 8 in response to feedback from the sensor.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1, the system includes a first sensor 12a, a second sensor 12b, and a valve 14 (e.g., an actuated valve). In an exemplary embodiment, the valve 14 may be an electric valve, a solenoid valve, a magnetic valve, or any other suitable valve. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve is a piston operated solenoid valve 14. Referring to fig. 1, a piston operated valve is coupled to each of the sensors 12a, 12 b. The piston operated solenoid valve 14 is configured to allow and prevent flow through the supply line 28.

The first sensor 12a is configured to detect when the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 has reached a predetermined maximum amount. In some embodiments, the first sensor 12a is configured to detect when the soap reservoir 8 is full.

When the predetermined maximum amount has been reached, the system 2 stops replenishing the soap reservoir 8. When the first sensor 12a detects that the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 has reached a predetermined maximum amount, the piston operated solenoid valve 14 closes to stop flow through the supply line 28 and prevent further filling of the soap reservoir 8.

The second sensor 12b is configured to detect when the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 is below a predetermined minimum amount. In some embodiments, the second sensor 12b is configured to detect when the soap reservoir 8 is empty.

As shown in fig. 1, the second sensor 12b is positioned above (i.e., vertically above) the location of the outlet 18. Thus, under normal operation, the level of soap in the soap reservoir 8 remains above the position of the outlet 18. This reduces the likelihood of air entering the manifold 20 and supplying the lines 22, 24 to the dispenser 10.

When the second sensor 12b detects that the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 is below a predetermined minimum amount, the piston operated solenoid valve 14 is opened to allow flow in the supply line 28 and to allow the soap reservoir 8 to be replenished.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1, the dosing mechanism comprises a venturi (venturi) element. As water flows through the supply line 28, through the venturi element 30, soap concentrate is drawn into the supply line from one of the soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6 b.

As previously mentioned, the system 2 includes two soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6 b. These are coupled to the supply line 28 via a switch manifold 32. The switch manifold 32 is operable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the first soap concentrate reservoir 6a is in fluid communication with the soap reservoir 8, and the second soap concentrate reservoir 6b is disconnected from the soap reservoir 8. In the second position, the second soap concentrate reservoir 6b is in fluid communication with the soap reservoir 8, and the first soap concentrate reservoir 6a is disconnected from the soap reservoir 8. In this way, the supply of soap concentrate to the supply line 28 can be switched between the first and second soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6 b. Fig. 1 shows the switch manifold 32 in a first position.

It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the system includes more than two concentrate reservoirs coupled to the supply line via a switch manifold. For example, the system may include 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more concentrate reservoirs.

System 2 also includes a control mechanism 34, control mechanism 34 configured to determine when either of first concentrate reservoir 6a and second soap concentrate reservoir 6b is depleted. The control mechanism 34 is also configured to switch from supplying soap concentrate from one soap concentrate reservoir to the system 2 to supplying soap concentrate from another soap concentrate reservoir to the system 2 and vice versa.

The control mechanism 34 is coupled to a sensor 36, the sensor 36 detecting when each of the respective soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6b is depleted. This enables the control mechanism 34 to determine when each reservoir is empty so that the supply can be switched to another soap concentrate reservoir.

For example, where the soap reservoir 8 is in fluid communication with the first soap concentrate reservoir 6a, when the control mechanism 34 determines that the first soap concentrate reservoir 6a is empty (i.e., has been fully depleted), the control mechanism 34 causes the switch manifold 32 to switch from the first position to the second position. When the switch manifold 32 is in the second position, the second soap concentrate reservoir 6b is in fluid communication with the soap reservoir 8. The soap concentrate reservoir 6b may then be used to supply soap concentrate to the system 2, while the first soap concentrate reservoir 6a may be replaced.

The control mechanism 34 may similarly direct the switch manifold 32 to switch between the second position and the first position as desired.

In some embodiments, the system is configured to stop refilling of the soap reservoir 8 when both of the concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6b are depleted until at least one of the concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6b has been replaced or refilled. This ensures that the soap reservoir 8 is replenished with diluted soap of the required concentration.

In the embodiment shown, the water source 4 is a mains water supply.

In use, the soap reservoir 8 contains a source of soap. When the soap dispenser 10 is in use, soap is supplied to the dispenser 10 from the soap reservoir 8 via respective supply lines 24. The use of the dispenser 10 allows the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 to be reduced. The soap reservoir 8 in the embodiment shown in fig. 1 is a rigid structure. Thus, when the amount of soap in the reservoir 8 is depleted, air is allowed to enter the reservoir via the air relief valve 38.

When the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 falls below a predetermined minimum level, the second sensor 12b detects a drop in the level of soap. This causes the piston operated solenoid valve 14 to open, thereby opening the supply line 28 from the water supply 4.

This enables water to flow along the supply line 28 when the valve 14 is open. As water flows through the venturi element 30, soap concentrate is drawn from the associated soap concentrate reservoir (reservoir 6a in fig. 1), thereby providing diluted soap to the soap reservoir 8.

This causes the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 to increase. Once the amount of soap (as detected by the first sensor 12 a) has reached a predetermined maximum threshold, the piston operated solenoid valve 14 is caused to close and the replenishment of the soap reservoir 8 is stopped.

In this manner, a batch refill mechanism for refilling the soap reservoir 8 is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the soap reservoir 8 includes only a single sensor 12a to prevent overfilling of the soap reservoir. In such embodiments, the filling of the soap reservoir 8 is continuous, i.e. as the soap is depleted, the soap is continuously replenished.

Replenishment of the soap reservoir 8 continues as described above until all of the soap concentrate in the first soap concentrate reservoir 6a is used up. Sensor 36 detects when reservoir 6a is empty and provides this information to control mechanism 34. The control mechanism 34 determines that the soap concentrate reservoir 6a is empty based on feedback from the sensor 36 and moves the switch manifold 32 from the first position to the second position. This switches the supply of soap concentrate from the first soap concentrate reservoir 6a to the second soap concentrate reservoir 6b, which is not empty. In other words, the second soap concentrate reservoir 6b is now in fluid communication with the soap reservoir 8 and is therefore able to provide soap concentrate to the system 2.

The cleaner will then replace the first soap concentrate reservoir 6a with a full reservoir or cartridge. Alternatively, the soap concentrate reservoir 6a may be refilled from another reservoir. The second soap concentrate reservoir 6b will continue to provide soap concentrate to the system until it is empty, at which point the control mechanism will switch back to the supply of the first reservoir 6a in a similar manner as described above.

When completely empty, the cleaner need only replace the associated soap concentrate reservoir 6a, 6 b. This ensures that all available soap concentrate is used, thereby reducing waste. Nor does it require refilling or replacing the soap reservoir 8 itself. Thus, a simpler system for ensuring a continuous supply of soap is provided.

Fig. 2 shows a second embodiment of the invention. Like features will be denoted by like reference numerals. For the sake of brevity, only those features that differ from those in the first embodiment will be described.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 2, the dosing mechanism is a rotary dosing pump 40. In addition to ensuring that the proper amount of soap concentrate is added to the supply line 28, the rotary dosing pump 40 also functions to ensure that the desired flow level is provided through the supply line 28.

Fig. 3 shows a third embodiment of the invention. Like features are denoted by like reference numerals. For the sake of brevity, only those features that differ from the foregoing embodiments will be described.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 3, the soap reservoir 8 includes a float valve 42 having a float 42a, the float 42a floating on the surface of the soap in the soap reservoir 8.

The float valve 42 is configured to detect when the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 is at a predetermined maximum amount corresponding to a predetermined position of the float 42 a. When this is the case, the float valve 42 provides feedback to the piston operated solenoid valve 14 to cause the valve 14 to close. This prevents further filling of the soap reservoir 8 and thus prevents overfilling.

As the level of soap in the soap reservoir 8 decreases, the level of the float 42a also decreases. The system is configured such that when the float 42a of the float valve 42 drops a predetermined amount or angle, the float valve 44 provides feedback to the piston operated solenoid valve 14 to cause the valve to open and replenish the soap reservoir 8.

Fig. 4 shows a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. Like features are denoted by like reference numerals. For the sake of brevity, only those features that differ from those of the foregoing embodiments will be described.

In this embodiment, the reservoir has three outlets 18, one outlet 18 for each of the soap dispensers 10. Further, the soap reservoir 8 is a collapsible reservoir arranged to collapse as soap is dispensed from the reservoir. When the soap reservoir 8 is depleted, a pressure change may be detected in the supply line 28. A pressure switch 44 is provided in the supply line 28 and is arranged to detect a pressure change corresponding to the filling state of the soap reservoir 8. When the soap reservoir 8 is empty or drops below a predetermined minimum amount, a corresponding pressure will be detectable in the supply line 28. This pressure is detected by a pressure switch 44, which pressure switch 44 is in communication with a pump 46 to pump water through the supply line 28. This allows the soap reservoir 8 to be replenished as described above.

The supply line 28 also comprises a check valve 48 to ensure that fluid in the supply line 28 does not wash back into the mains water supply 4.

When the soap reservoir 8 is refilled, a change in pressure in the supply line 28 will be detected. The pressure switch 44 is also configured to detect a pressure corresponding to the soap reservoir 8 being completely filled or having reached a predetermined maximum threshold. When this is detected, the pump 46 is directed to stop, thereby stopping refilling of the soap reservoir 8.

Since the soap reservoir 8 is collapsible, the soap supply system may be airtight, thereby improving the hygiene of the system.

In some embodiments, the pump 46 may be replaced by a valve (e.g., a solenoid valve).

Fig. 5 shows a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Like features are denoted by like reference numerals. For the sake of brevity, only those features that differ from those of the foregoing embodiments will be described.

The header tank 50 is disposed between the soap reservoir 8 and the dispenser 10. The header tank 50 has an inlet 52 and an outlet 54. The inlet 52 is coupled to the outlet 18 of the reservoir 8 via a supply line 56. The outlet 54 of the header tank 50 is coupled to a series of distributors 10 via the manifold 20 and the supply lines 22, 24.

The header tank 50 has a smaller volume than the soap reservoir 8 and is configured to supply liquid from the liquid reservoir 8. The header tank 50 is configured to supply liquid to the or each dispenser 10 when required. This may be advantageous, for example, when the soap reservoir 8 is replenished, and/or when the replenishment of the soap reservoir 8 has ceased (e.g., awaiting refilling or replacement of the concentrate reservoirs 6a, b) and the level of soap in the soap reservoir 8 is below a predetermined minimum amount.

Thus, the provision of the header tank 50 ensures that there is always a supply of soap available to the user in normal use.

It will be understood that any of the first to fourth embodiments may also include a header tank.

Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure. Like features are denoted by like reference numerals. For the sake of brevity, only those features that differ from those of the foregoing embodiments will be described.

The embodiment of fig. 6 is similar to the embodiment of fig. 2, but differs in that the dosing mechanism 30 is arranged to supply an amount of soap concentrate directly from the soap concentrate reservoirs 6a, 6b to the reservoir 8 via a dedicated inlet 58. Thus, the reservoir 8 has two inlets: a first water inlet 16 and a second soap concentrate inlet 58.

In such an embodiment, the soap concentrate and water are mixed in the reservoir 8. In some embodiments, reservoir 8 includes a mixing device, such as a stirrer.

When the second sensor 12b detects that the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 is below a predetermined minimum amount, the piston operated solenoid valve 14 is opened to allow water in the water supply line 28 to flow and to allow the soap reservoir 8 to be replenished with water. In addition, the piston operated solenoid valve 14 is coupled to the concentrate pump 60 such that when the second sensor 12b detects that the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 is below a predetermined minimum amount, a signal is transmitted to the concentrate pump 60 to pump the appropriate amount of soap concentrate into the reservoir 8.

The first sensor 12a is configured to detect when the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 reaches a predetermined maximum amount. In some embodiments, the first sensor 12a is configured to detect when the soap reservoir 8 is full.

When the predetermined maximum amount has been reached, the system 2 stops replenishing the soap reservoir 8. When the first sensor 12a detects that the amount of soap in the soap reservoir 8 has reached a predetermined maximum amount, the piston operated solenoid valve 14 closes to stop the flow of water through the supply line 28 and signals the pump 60 to stop the supply of soap concentrate from the soap reservoirs 6a, 6b to the reservoir 8 to prevent further filling of the soap reservoir 8.

In some embodiments, the fill level sensors 12a, 12b are coupled directly (i.e., not via the solenoid valve 14) to the concentrate pump 60 to trigger the supply of soap concentrate to the reservoir 8.

Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to one or more embodiments, it should be understood that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, while the soap dispenser shown in the figures is a counter top soap dispenser supplied through a counter via a supply line, a wall mounted soap dispenser, or any other suitable type of soap dispenser, may be used.

Further, it will be appreciated that the soap concentrate and water may be mixed prior to entering the soap reservoir, upon entering the soap reservoir, and/or within the soap reservoir.

Claims (20)

1. A liquid supply system for supplying liquid to one or more liquid dispensers, the system comprising:

a. a water source for supplying water to the system;

b. a concentrate reservoir for supplying concentrate to the system; and

c. a liquid reservoir coupled to the water source and the concentrate reservoir and configured to be coupled to one or more liquid dispensers;

wherein, in use, the liquid reservoir is configured to supply liquid to the or each dispenser and to be replenished via the water source and the concentrate reservoir.

2. The liquid supply system of claim 1, wherein the liquid reservoir is directly or indirectly secured to the water source; and/or wherein the liquid reservoir is configured to be secured directly or indirectly to the or each liquid dispenser.

3. A liquid supply system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the liquid reservoir is provided in a given position in which the liquid reservoir is configured to supply liquid to the or each liquid dispenser, and wherein the system is configured such that the liquid reservoir remains in the given position when the liquid reservoir is replenished.

4. A liquid supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises a sensor configured to detect a fill level condition of the liquid reservoir, and wherein the system is configured to replenish the liquid reservoir in response to feedback from the sensor.

5. The liquid supply system of claim 4, wherein the sensor is configured to detect when the liquid reservoir is empty, when an amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined minimum fill level, when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir has reached a predetermined maximum fill level, and/or when the liquid reservoir is full;

optionally, wherein the sensor is configured to detect when the liquid reservoir is empty or the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined minimum amount, and wherein the system is configured such that when the sensor detects that the liquid reservoir is empty or the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below the predetermined minimum amount, replenishment of the liquid reservoir via the water source and the concentrate reservoir is triggered;

optionally, wherein the sensor is configured to detect when the liquid reservoir is full or when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir has reached the predetermined maximum amount or a predetermined maximum amount, and wherein the system is configured such that replenishing the liquid reservoir via the water source and the concentrate liquid reservoir is stopped when the sensor detects that the liquid reservoir is full or when the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir has reached the predetermined maximum amount.

6. The liquid supply system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the sensor comprises a pressure sensor, a fill level switch and/or a float switch.

7. The liquid supply system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the sensor comprises a plurality of sensors.

8. A liquid supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein the liquid reservoir comprises:

a. at least one inlet via which the liquid reservoir is replenished, and

b. at least one outlet for supplying liquid to the or each dispenser.

9. The liquid supply system of claim 8, wherein the liquid reservoir includes a single inlet coupled to both the concentrate reservoir and the water source; optionally, wherein the inlet of the liquid reservoir is coupled to the water source via a supply line, and wherein the concentrate reservoir is coupled to the supply line via a dosing mechanism, wherein the dosing mechanism is configured to supply a quantity of concentrate from the concentrate reservoir to the supply line; optionally, wherein the liquid reservoir is directly or indirectly fixed to the supply line.

10. The liquid supply system of claim 9, wherein the dosing mechanism comprises a venturi element.

11. The liquid supply system of claim 9, wherein the dosing mechanism comprises a rotary dosing pump.

12. The liquid supply system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the supply line comprises a pump for controlling the flow through the supply line.

13. A liquid supply system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a first concentrate reservoir and a second concentrate reservoir, wherein the system is configured such that the liquid reservoir is connectable in fluid communication with the first concentrate reservoir or the second concentrate reservoir such that concentrate can be supplied to the system from the first concentrate reservoir or the second concentrate reservoir.

14. The liquid supply system of claim 13, wherein the system includes a control mechanism configured to determine when the concentrate reservoir supplying the liquid reservoir is depleted and switch the supply of concentrate to another concentrate reservoir.

15. The liquid supply system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water source is a mains water supply.

16. The liquid supply system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid reservoir is foldable or has a rigid structure.

17. Liquid supply system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is airtight.

18. A liquid supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system is configured to replenish the liquid reservoir via batch filling or continuous filling.

19. A liquid supply system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises one or more liquid distributors coupled to the liquid reservoir.

20. A soap supply system for supplying soap to one or more dispensers, the system comprising:

a. a water source for supplying water to the system;

b. a soap concentrate reservoir for supplying soap concentrate to the system; and

c. a soap reservoir coupled to the water source and the concentrate reservoir and configured to be coupled to one or more soap dispensers;

wherein, in use, the soap reservoir is configured to supply soap to the or each dispenser and to be replenished via the water source and soap concentrate reservoir.