Intelligent wipe device

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a wipe device for dispensing warm moist wipes. A wipe device comprising: a wipe dispensing structure configured to allow a user to remove a moist wipe; a wipe housing configured to hold a dry wipe, wherein the moist wipe is available via the wipe dispensing structure; an evaporative device unit positioned relative to the wipe housing; a water reservoir connected to the evaporative device unit; and an additive housing connected to the evaporative device unit, wherein the evaporative device unit is configured to moisten the dry wipe for a defined event by evaporating a combination of water from the water reservoir and an additive from the additive housing.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application entitled "Intelligent Wiping Towel Device", filed on November 4, 2021, with application number 202180082016X. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to cleaning products, and more particularly to a device for dispensing a damp wipe. Background Technology

[0003] Wipes, such as baby wipes, are pre-moistened or dampened before being packaged and sold. Therefore, their shelf life or lifespan is limited. Furthermore, various chemicals, preservatives, and other products are used to keep the wipes moist. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This document discloses a method and apparatus for dispensing moistened wipes. In one embodiment, the wipe apparatus includes: a wipe dispensing structure configured to allow a user to remove the moistened wipe; a wipe housing configured to hold a dry wipe, wherein the moistened wipe can be obtained via the wipe dispensing structure; an evaporation unit positioned relative to the wipe housing; a water container connected to the evaporation unit; and an additive housing connected to the evaporation unit, wherein the evaporation unit is configured to moisten the dry wipe for a defined event by evaporating a composition of water from the water container and an additive from the additive housing. Attached Figure Description

[0005] This disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description, which is incorporated into and thus constitutes a part of this specification, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be emphasized that, by convention, the various features in the drawings are not drawn to scale. Rather, for clarity, the dimensions of the various features have been arbitrarily enlarged or reduced.

[0006] Figure 1 This is an example of a block diagram of a device for dispensing a moistened wiping cloth according to an embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 This is a view of the dry wiping wipe packaging and box according to the embodiment.

[0008] Figure 3 According to the implementation method Figure 2 An example of a dry wipe box.

[0009] Figure 4 According to the implementation method Figure 3 A side view of the dry wipe box.

[0010] Figure 5This is an example of a device for dispensing a moistened wiping cloth according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 6 According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 5 A partial side view of the additive housing of the device.

[0012] Figures 7A to 7C According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 5 An exploded view of the additive housing of the device.

[0013] Figures 8A to 8B The additive bag according to the embodiment is relative to Figure 5 A view of the additive casing.

[0014] Figure 9 According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 5 A view of the water container of the device.

[0015] Figure 10 According to the implementation method Figure 9 Water containers placed about Figure 5 A view of the device.

[0016] Figure 11 According to the implementation method Figure 5 A perspective view of the device, in which the cover has been removed.

[0017] Figure 12A According to the implementation method Figure 5 A side view of the device, showing a damp wiping cloth being removed.

[0018] Figure 12B According to the implementation method Figure 12A A top-down view showing the damp wiping cloth being removed.

[0019] Figures 13A to 13D It is used according to the implementation method. Figure 5 A view of the device.

[0020] Figure 14 This is an example of a device for dispensing a moistened wiping cloth according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figures 15A to 15B According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 14 An example of a dry wipe box for a device.

[0022] Figures 16A to 16C According to the implementation method Figure 14 An example of placing a dry wiping cloth box in a device.

[0023] Figures 17A to 17D The additives and additives according to the implementation method are in Figure 14 An example placed in the device.

[0024] Figures 18A to 18B This is a method for dispensing moistened wipes according to an embodiment. Figure 14 An exposed view of the device.

[0025] Figures 19A to 19E It is used according to the implementation method. Figure 14 A view of the device.

[0026] Figure 20 This is an example of a device for dispensing a moistened wiping cloth according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 21 According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 20 An example of a dry wipe box for a device.

[0028] Figure 22 According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 20 An example of a dry wipe box for a device.

[0029] Figures 23A to 23D The additives and additives according to the implementation method are in Figure 20 An example of placement in the device.

[0030] Figures 24A to 24B This is a method for dispensing moistened wipes according to an embodiment. Figure 20 An exposed view of the device.

[0031] Figures 25A to 25E It is based on the use of the implementation method Figure 20 A view of the device. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The accompanying drawings and descriptions provided herein have been simplified to illustrate aspects of the described embodiments relevant to a clear understanding of the apparatus, process, machine, manufacture, and / or material compositions disclosed herein, while other aspects that may be found in typical similar apparatuses, systems, compositions, and methods have been omitted for clarity. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that other elements and / or steps may be desired or necessary for implementing the apparatuses, systems, compositions, and methods described herein. However, because such elements and steps are well known in the art and because they may not facilitate a better understanding of the disclosed embodiments, discussion of such elements or steps may not be provided herein. However, based on the discussion herein, the invention is considered inherently to include all such elements, variations, and modifications of the described aspects known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0033] Examples are provided throughout this document to make this disclosure thorough enough to fully convey the scope of the disclosed embodiments to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of specific aspects, apparatuses, and methods, are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of embodiments of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain specific details disclosed are not necessary, and that embodiments may be embodied in different forms. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments set forth should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0034] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not restrictive. For example, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also include the plural forms as used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “including,” and “having” are included and therefore specify the presence of the said features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps and operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0035] Therefore, the steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or described, unless explicitly identified as a preferred or required order. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be used in place of or in combination with the disclosed aspects.

[0036] Furthermore, although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, steps, or aspects, these elements, steps, and aspects should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element or aspect from another. Therefore, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms used herein do not imply sequence or order. Thus, without departing from the teachings of the invention, the first element, step, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, step, component, region, layer, or portion.

[0037] The non-limiting embodiments described herein relate to apparatus for dispensing moistened wipes. These packages can be modified for various applications and uses while remaining within the spirit and scope of the claims. The embodiments and variations described herein and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit their scope and spirit. The description herein applies to all embodiments of the apparatus and methods for manufacturing the apparatus.

[0038] This document discloses embodiments of a device for dispensing moistened wipes. The embodiments shown are illustrative, and other embodiments fall within the scope of the description and claims herein. For illustrative purposes, certain aspects, features, etc., are described with respect to embodiments. These aspects, features, etc., may be suitably applied to and interchanged with other embodiments described herein.

[0039] In one embodiment, the smart wipe device provides a mechanism for wetting a dry wipe. Depending on the application, various fragrances, conditioning agents, oils, and / or other additives (collectively, "additives") may be added to the dry wipe. Additives may be provided in various forms, including but not limited to liquid capsules, granules, etc. The additives are mixed with water and evaporated for application to the dry wipe. The wetting or evaporation of the dry wipe can be activated by opening the lid of the smart wipe device, pressing a button on the smart wipe device, pulling the wipe out of the device, or other similar mechanisms. In another embodiment, the evaporation device may be connected to a sensor or actuator to initiate the evaporation or wetting of the dry wipe.

[0040] Figure 1 This is an example of a block diagram of a smart wipe device 1000 for dispensing moist wipes according to an embodiment. The smart wipe device 1000 may include, but is not limited to, a wipe dispensing structure and mechanism 1100, a replaceable wipe housing 1200, an evaporation mechanism 1250, an evaporation device 1300, a power module 1400, and a water container 1500. In one embodiment, the smart wipe device 1000 may include an additive housing 1600. In one embodiment, the smart wipe device 1000 may include a sensor 1700. In one embodiment, the smart wipe device 1000 may include a controller 1800. In one embodiment, the smart wipe device 1000 may include a user interface 1900. In one embodiment, the smart wipe device 1000 may include any combination of the above. In this embodiment, some of the following components may be integrally formed with other elements: the wiping cloth dispensing structure and mechanism 1100, the replaceable wiping cloth housing 1200, the evaporation mechanism 1250, the evaporation device 1300, the power module 1400, the water container 1500, the additive housing 1600, the sensor 1700, the controller 1800, and the user interface 1900.

[0041] The structure of the wipe dispensing structure and mechanism 1100 allows the user to pull out, tear off, or otherwise obtain a moist wipe, a heated moist wipe, etc. from the smart wipe device 1000.

[0042] The replaceable wipe housing 1200 is configured to hold various forms of dry wipes, including pre-filled packages, rolls, wipe stacks, etc.

[0043] Evaporation mechanism 1250 is configured to apply evaporated water and additives to a dry wiping cloth. In an embodiment, evaporation mechanism 1250 is an annular evaporator, multiple steam nozzles, and tubes, etc. Evaporation device 1300 may be a heating coil, ultrasonic transducer, heating pad, heating element, etc., which evaporates water and additives toward evaporation mechanism 1250. In an embodiment, evaporation mechanism 1250 and evaporation device 1300 are integrally formed and may be referred to as evaporation device unit. In an embodiment, evaporation mechanism 1250, evaporation device 1300, or evaporation device unit may be one or more piezoelectric atomizing transducers in the form of nozzles or injectors, configured or constructed relative to the smart wiping cloth device 1000 described herein. For example, an injector or nozzle has a perforated metal layer attached to a piezoelectric ceramic layer. When energy is applied to the piezoelectric layer, it vibrates at a very high frequency, which produces droplets and a vacuum-like effect, drawing the liquid through the perforated layer and essentially atomizing the liquid into a smoky mist. In implementation, sponge layers, capillaries, other similar mechanisms, and combinations thereof may be used to provide or facilitate the introduction of a mixed water-additive solution.

[0044] The power module 1400 supplies power to the intelligent wiping wipe device 1000 and the components contained therein. The power module 1400 may be a battery, may be configured for plug-in power, or may be a combination thereof.

[0045] The water container 1500 is configured to hold water and is assembled with the smart wipe device 1000. The water container 1500 may include a valve for discharging water toward the evaporation device 1300. The water container 1500 may include an alignment structure for guiding assembly into the smart wipe device 1000. In this embodiment, the water container 1500 is transparent.

[0046] The additive housing 1600 is configured to hold the additive via a valve and release the additive toward the evaporator 1300. In this embodiment, the additive housing 1600 is transparent.

[0047] Sensor 1700 may be a lid sensor, lid actuator, button sensor, button actuator, etc., configured to sense whether the lid or top of the smart wipe device 1000 is being opened, whether a button is being pressed, selected, actuated, etc., and if so, to initiate the evaporation of the dry wipe. Sensor 1700 may be deployed on the smart wipe device 1000. In embodiments, sensor 1700 may be integrally formed into the elements of the smart wipe device 1000 as described herein. In embodiments, sensor 1700 may be integrally formed onto the outer surface of the smart wipe device 1000.

[0048] The controller 1800 can control the operation of the smart wiping cloth device 1000 and its components based on default configurations, sensor inputs, etc. In some embodiments, the controller 1800 can be controlled or configured by an application on a user device via wireless communication.

[0049] Users can use the user interface 1900 to set up the smart wiping device 1000, controller 1800, etc., and view notifications from the smart wiping device 1000.

[0050] Operationally, the packaging of the dry wiping wipes is placed, inserted, or otherwise positioned in the smart wiping wipe device 1000. Water is added to a water container 1500, which is then placed in the smart wiping wipe device 1000. An additive is added to the water container 1500 or the additive housing, as appropriate. Based on the configuration of the smart wiping wipe device 1000, inputs or actuations received by sensor 1700 due to a user pressing a button, opening and / or closing a lid or cover, removing a wet wiping wipe, or a combination of actions and inputs, the evaporation device and evaporation mechanism apply evaporated water and additives to at least one dry wiping wipe.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a view of the dry wipe packaging 2000 and the automatic accessory or cartridge 2100 according to an embodiment. The automatic accessory or cartridge 2100 is placed on the dry wipe packaging 2000 to form a wipe cartridge 2200. Figure 3 This is a perspective side view of the dry wiping cloth box 2200 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 This is a partial side view of the dry wipe holder 2200. The automatic accessory or holder 2100 includes a base 2110 having a pair of flaps 2120 and 2130. The automatic accessory or holder 2100 includes a pull tab or ring 2140 for opening a cover 2150, both the cover 2150 and the pull tab or ring 2140 being disposed on the base 2110. The automatic accessory or holder 2100 includes guides 2160 and 2170 disposed on the base 2110 for placing such... Figure 5 The intelligent wiping wipe device is shown. The base 2110 is centrally positioned on the dry wiping wipe package 2000, and a pair of flaps 2120 and 2130 are tightly fastened around the wiping wipe package 2000. In an embodiment, the center point on the wiping wipe package 2000 can be indicated by perforated lines on the wiping wipe package 2000, for example... Figure 15A As shown.

[0052] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an example of a device 5000 for dispensing a moistened wipe according to an embodiment. The device 5000 includes... Figure 1 Some or all of the elements and / or components.

[0053] The device 5000 includes a housing 5100, which includes a cover 5110, an additive housing 5120, and a water housing 5130. As shown, a dry wipe holder 5200 has been inserted into the cover 5110 as described herein. An additive bag, package, or container 5500 can be inserted into the additive housing 5120. A water container 5600 can be positioned within the water housing 5130. Figure 6 According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 5 A partial side view of the additive housing 5120 of the device 5000. Figures 7A-7C According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 5 An exploded view of the additive housing 5120 of the device 5000. Figure 7A This is a perspective view of the additive housing 5120, showing the valve mechanism 5122 that allows the additive to enter toward the evaporator in the device 5000. Figure 7B It is a side view. Figure 7C It is a top view.

[0054] Figures 8A to 8B The additive bag 5500 according to the embodiment is relative to Figure 5 A view of the additive housing 5120. The additive bag 5500 is integrally formed into the additive housing 5120 via a push system, which allows the additive bag 5500 to be easily placed and removed from the additive housing 5120. As described, the additive bag 5500 includes a valve mechanism 5510 that allows the dosage of additive to be added to the device 5000. The valve mechanism 5510 can be connected to a valve mechanism 5122, which also includes a conduit 5124 connected to an evaporation device, such as evaporation device 1300. In this embodiment, the additive bag 5500 is transparent, allowing the user to determine the amount of additive remaining in the additive bag 5500.

[0055] Figure 9 According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 5 A view of the water container 5600 of the device 5000. Figure 10 According to the implementation method Figure 9 Water container 5600 about placing Figure 5The view is taken within the water-filling housing 5130 of the device 5000. The water-filling container 5600 includes an opening 5610 for filling the water-filling container 5600 with water, a gripping area or protrusion 5620 for removing and placing the water-filling container 5600 within the water-filling housing 5130, and a valve mechanism 5700 allowing water to flow to an evaporating device, such as evaporating device 1300. The water-filling housing 5130 includes a valve mechanism 5132 and a conduit 5134 connected to an evaporating device, such as evaporating device 1300. When the water-filling container 5600 is placed within the water-filling housing 5130, the valve mechanism 5700 engages with the mechanism 5132 to allow water to flow to an evaporating device, such as evaporating device 1300.

[0056] Figure 11 According to the implementation method Figure 5 A perspective view of device 5000, which does not have a dry wipe holder in cover 5110. Figure 12A According to the implementation method Figure 5 A side view of the device 5000, showing the wiping cloth being removed. Figure 12B yes Figure 12A An enlarged top view of the device 5000. The lid 5110 includes an annular evaporator 5700, which is connected to a water container 5600 via valve mechanism 5700, valve mechanism 5132, and conduit 5134, and to an additive bag 5500 via valve mechanism 5510, valve mechanism 5122, and conduit 5124. The annular evaporator 5700 restricts an opening 2160, which is created when the lid 2150 is opened, allowing the user to remove the wipes. The annular evaporator 5700 includes multiple nozzles 5710 through which water vapor mixed with additives is emitted to wet the wipes when the user pulls the wipes. In an embodiment, sensors and actuators (e.g., sensor 1700) may be deployed to sense whether the lid 2150 is being opened, whether the wipes are being removed, etc., so that the wipes are wetted when pulled out of the wipe cartridge. In one embodiment, the annular evaporator 5700 may include an evaporator and an evaporation mechanism. The cover 5110 includes a pair of sides 5112 and 5114 connected to the annular evaporator 5700, which together hold the wipe holder.

[0057] Figures 13A to 13D This is a view showing the device 5000 used with the dry wiping cloth box 2200 according to an embodiment. Figure 12AAs shown, the user opens cover 5110 to insert the wipe holder 2200 into and beneath cover 5110. The user fills water container 5600 with water and positions water container 5600 into water housing 5130. The user pushes additive bag 5500 into additive housing 5120. The user opens cover 2150, and annular evaporator 5700 wets and heats wipe 13000 as wipe 13000 is pulled out of wipe holder 2200.

[0058] Figure 14 This is an example of a device 14000 for dispensing a moistened wipe according to an embodiment. The device 14000 includes... Figure 1 Some or all of the elements and / or components. Device 14000 includes a housing 14100, which includes a cover 14110 and a water-filling housing 14120. A water-filling container 14200 is positionable within the water-filling housing 14120. The water-filling container 14200 has an engagement structure 14210 for holding an additive capsule 14300.

[0059] Figures 15A to 15B According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 14 An example of a dry wipe holder 15000 of the device 14000. The wipe holder 15000 includes a perforated line 15100 for opening the wipe holder 15000. In this example, the wipe holder 15000 is opened to obtain a dry wipe 15200.

[0060] Figures 16A to 16C According to the implementation method, the wiping cloth 15200 is placed in... Figure 14 An example of device 14000. Device 14000 includes a wipe container 16000, a wipe container lid 16100, a lid locking mechanism 16200, and a rotation mechanism 16300. The wipe container 16000 is configured to hold and retain the wipe 15100 on the wipe container 16000. The rotation mechanism 16300 is used to rotate the wipe container 16000 within the device 14000 when the lid of the device 14000 is opened and closed. The wipe container lid 16100 includes an opening 16110 for removing a moistened wipe. Operationally, after the wipe 15200 is placed on the wipe container 16000, the wipe container 16000 rotates to face the evaporation unit when the lid of the device 14000 is closed. When the lid is opened again, the wipe container 16000 faces the opening created by opening the lid, allowing the user to remove the moist, warm wipe.

[0061] Figures 17A to 17D The additives and additives according to the implementation method are in Figure 14 An example of placement in device 14000. Figure 17A An exemplary additive capsule 17000 is shown. The additive capsule 17000 has a tube, syringe-like tube, capillary tube, or the like 17200 that holds a top 17100 and is configured to continuously drip a certain amount of additive 17300 into a water container 17500, and a stop 17400 connected to the tube 17200 to prevent the additive 17300 from dripping. The additive capsule 17000 is transparent, allowing a user to see the amount of additive 17300. Operationally, the stop 17400 is removed from the additive capsule 17000 and placed into a engagement structure 17600 on the water container 17500. The engagement structure 17600 is also used to fill the water container 17500 with water. The water container 17500 includes a guide on its base for placement and removal from the device 14000. The placement of additive capsule 17000 in water container 17500 results in the mixing of water-additive composition 17700 in water container 17500.

[0062] Figures 18A to 18B This is a method for dispensing moistened wipes according to an embodiment. Figure 14 Exposed view of device 14000. Figure 18A This is an exposed view of device 14000. Figure 18B This is a side view of device 14000, which together show a water container 14200 with additive capsule 14300, a wipe container 16000, a wipe 15100, and an evaporation unit 18000 connected to the water container 1420 via a valve and pipe 18100. The evaporation unit 18000 includes a sponge 18200 surrounded by a heating element 18300. The heating element 18300 includes a sprayer 18310 for evaporating the water-additive composition and wetting the wipe 15100.

[0063] Figures 19A to 19E It is based on the use of the implementation method Figure 14 A view of the device 14000. The user opens the cap 14120 and the cap locking mechanism 16200 to insert the wipe 15100 into the wipe container 16000. The water container 14200 is filled with water and is placed in the water housing 14120. The additive capsule 14300 is positioned on the engagement structure 14210. The wipe container 16000 rotates to the wetted position when the cap 14120 is closed. When the user opens the cap 14120 to obtain a wetted wipe, the wipe container 16000 rotates back to the filling or wipe removal position.

[0064] Figure 20 This is an example of a device 20000 for dispensing a moistened wipe according to an embodiment. The device 20000 includes... Figure 1Some or all of the elements and / or components. Device 20000 includes a housing 20100, a water-filled housing 20120, and a wipe removal structure 20130, the housing 20100 including a side cover 20110. A water container 20200 may be positioned within the water-filled housing 20120.

[0065] Figure 21 According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 20 An example of a dry wipe cartridge 21000 of the device 20000. The wipe cartridge 21000 includes a wipe roll 21100 and a wipe roll holder 21200. The wipe roll holder 21200 includes a tearing mechanism 21210 for tearing the wipe from the wipe roll 21100 when the wipe is pulled through the wipe removal structure 20130.

[0066] Figure 22 According to the implementation method, it is used for Figure 20 An example of a dry wipe cartridge 22000 of the device 20000. The wipe cartridge 22000 includes a dry wipe roll 22100 and a wipe roll holder 22200. The wipe roll holder 22200 includes a tearing mechanism 22210 for tearing the wipe from the wipe roll 22100 when the wipe is pulled through the wipe removal structure 20130. The wipe roll holder 22200 includes a guiding and holding mechanism 22220 configured to guide and hold the wipe cartridge 22000 within the device 20000, as shown in FIG24.

[0067] Figures 23A to 23D The additives and additives according to the implementation method are in Figure 20 An example of placement in the device. Figure 23A Can 23000 of additive granules 23100 is shown. Figure 23B A water container 23200 is shown during the placement / removal process from device 20000. The water container 23200 is constructed as described herein for placement in and removal from device 20000. Water 23300 and additive particles 23100 can be placed in the water container 23200, as... Figure 23C and 23D As shown.

[0068] Figures 24A to 24B This is a method for dispensing moistened wipes according to an embodiment. Figure 20 The exposed view of the device 20000. Figure 24A This is an exposed view of device 20000. Figure 24BThis is a side view of the device 20000 with the side cover 20110 open, which together show the evaporation unit 24000 and the wipe holder holding mechanism 24100 for holding the wipe holder 22000. For example, the wipe holder holding mechanism 24100 may engage the guide and holding mechanism 22220 to hold and retain the wipe holder 22000 within the evaporation unit 24000 of the device 20000. The evaporation unit 24000 is a cylindrical evaporation device and evaporation mechanism that includes a plurality of nozzles or jets 24010 for wetting the wipes. The evaporation unit 24000 is connected to a water container via valves and pipes as described herein. The evaporation unit 24000 is configured to mate with the wipe removal structure 20130.

[0069] Figures 25A to 25E It is based on the use of the implementation method Figure 20 A view of the device 20000. The user opens the side cover 20110 and inserts the wipe holder 22000 into the device 20000, which is partially surrounded by the evaporation unit 24000. The water container 20200 is filled with water and additive particles 23100 and is positioned on the water housing 20120. The evaporation unit 24000 wets the outer layer of the wipes on the wipe holder 22000 based on the device configuration, sensors, actuators, etc., as described herein. The user removes the wetted wipes 25000 by pulling the wipes 25000 through the wipe removal structure 20130, wherein the wipes 25000 are torn from the wipe holder 22000 via the tearing mechanism 21210.

[0070] Typically, a wiping cloth device includes: a wiping cloth dispensing structure configured to allow a user to remove a moistened wiping cloth; a wiping cloth housing configured to hold a dry wiping cloth, wherein the moistened wiping cloth is available via the wiping cloth dispensing structure; an evaporation unit positioned relative to the wiping cloth housing; a water container connected to the evaporation unit; and an additive housing connected to the evaporation unit, wherein the evaporation unit is configured to wet the dry wiping cloth for a defined event by evaporating a composition of water from the water container and an additive from the additive housing. In one embodiment, the wiping cloth dispensing structure and the wiping cloth housing are a case configured to hold a wiping cloth package containing a dry wiping cloth, the case including a lid positioned above a perforated line on the wiping cloth package and configured to allow a user to remove the moistened wiping cloth. In another embodiment, the evaporation unit is an annular evaporator positioned above the case and configured to wet the dry wiping cloth when the user pulls the dry wiping cloth through the annular evaporator. In one embodiment, the annular evaporator includes a plurality of nozzles or injectors that limit the opening created when the lid of the housing is opened. In another embodiment, an additive bag is connected to an additive housing, and a water container and the additive housing are connected to the evaporation unit via valves and conduits. In another embodiment, the wipe dispensing structure is a device lid and a wipe housing lid. In yet another embodiment, the wipe dispensing structure is a device lid and a wipe housing lid. In yet another embodiment, the wipe housing is rotatably connected to the housing of the wipe device, and wherein the wipe housing is in a wetted position when the device lid is in a closed position, and in a wipe-getting position when the device lid is in an open position. In yet another embodiment, the water container includes an additive housing, and an additive capsule is configured to attach to the water container. In yet another embodiment, the additive capsule is configured to drip additive into the water container. In yet another embodiment, the evaporation unit also includes a sponge connected to the water container via valves and conduits to absorb the water-additive composition, and a heating element configured to heat the sponge and wet the dry wipes via the plurality of injectors or nozzles when the wipe housing is in the wetted position. In one embodiment, the wiping cloth dispensing structure is an opening in the housing of the wiping cloth device and a tearing mechanism on the wiping cloth housing. In another embodiment, the wiping cloth housing is a holding mechanism and a roll holder within the housing of the wiping cloth device, the roll holder holding the dry wiping cloth in a roll configuration, and also includes a tearing mechanism. In another embodiment, the evaporation unit is a cylindrical evaporation unit including multiple ejectors or nozzles, the evaporation unit partially surrounding the inserted roll holder and configured to wet the outer layer of the wiping cloth on the roll holder. In yet another embodiment, the additive housing is a water container, and the additive is additive particles dissolved in water.

[0071] In general, a method for dispensing a warm, moistened wipe includes: inserting a dry wipe into a wipe holder; placing a water-filled container into the wipe holder; adding an additive to combine with the water in the container; wetting the dry wipe by evaporating the combined solution of water and the additive when a defined event occurs; and removing the warm, moistened wipe from the wipe holder. In one embodiment, the method further includes attaching a cartridge to the dry wipe before insertion into the wipe holder. In another embodiment, wetting further includes annular evaporation of the combined solution of water and the additive, and wetting the dry wipe while removing it from the wipe holder. In yet another embodiment, the method further includes rotating the dry wipe toward an evaporation unit after insertion is complete. In yet another embodiment, the method further includes rotating the moistened wipe toward an opening when the cover is opened to begin removal.

[0072] The construction and arrangement of the methods shown in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this invention, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape, and proportions of various elements; parameter values, installation arrangements, use of materials and components, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the positions of elements may be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or number of separated elements or positions may be altered or changed. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or reordered according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made to the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0073] Although the accompanying drawings or description may show a specific order of method steps, the order of steps may differ from that described. Furthermore, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously. This variation will depend on the chosen software and hardware system and the designer's choices. All such variations are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, software implementations can be implemented using standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to implement various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

[0074] While the invention has been described in conjunction with certain embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, which should be interpreted in the broadest possible sense to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures permitted by law.

Claims

1. A wiping cloth device, comprising: The wipe housing is configured to keep the wipes dry; A wipe dispensing structure configured to allow a user to remove a moist wipe, wherein the moist wipe is formed by wetting one of the dry wipes contained in the wipe housing, and wherein the moist wipe is available via the wipe dispensing structure; An evaporation device unit positioned relative to the wipe housing, and the evaporation device unit includes an annular evaporator and an evaporation device positioned above the dry wipe; A water container connected to the evaporation unit; as well as The additive housing is connected to the evaporation unit. The evaporation device is configured to evaporate a combination of water from the water container and additives from the additive housing toward the annular evaporator for a defined event such that when a user pulls the dry wipe through the annular evaporator, the annular evaporator wets the dry wipe with the evaporated water and the evaporated additives.

2. The wiping cloth device according to claim 1, wherein, The wipe dispensing structure and the wipe housing are a box configured to hold a wipe package containing the dry wipes. The box includes a lid positioned above a perforated line on the wipe package and configured to allow the user to remove the wet wipes.

3. The wiping cloth device according to claim 2, wherein, The annular evaporator includes a plurality of nozzles or injectors that limit the opening created when the lid of the casing is opened.

4. The wiping cloth device according to claim 3, wherein, The additive bag is connected to the additive housing, and the water container and the additive housing are connected to the evaporation unit via valves and pipes.

5. The wiping cloth device according to claim 1, wherein, The evaporation device includes one or more piezoelectric atomizing transducers configured to evaporate the water and the additive.

6. The wiping cloth device according to claim 1, wherein, The evaporation device includes an ejector comprising a perforated metal layer attached to a piezoelectric ceramic layer, wherein the piezoelectric ceramic layer is configured to vibrate and pull the water and the additive through the perforated metal layer to evaporate the water and the additive.

7. The wiping cloth device according to claim 1, further comprising a power module for supplying power to the wiping cloth device to wet the dry wiping cloth.

8. The wiping cloth device according to claim 1, wherein, The water container includes a first valve configured to release the water toward the evaporation device, and the additive housing includes a second valve configured to release the additive toward the evaporation device.

9. The wiping cloth device of claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to sense the defined event, wherein wetting of the dry wiping cloth is initiated based on the sensing of the defined event by the one or more sensors.

10. The wiping cloth device according to claim 9, wherein, The one or more sensors are integrally formed into the outer surface of the wiping cloth device.

11. The wiping cloth device according to claim 1, wherein, The wipe dispensing structure includes an accessory configured to be placed on the dry wipe to align the dry wipe within the wipe housing.

12. The wiping cloth device according to claim 11, wherein, The accessory includes a base and a pair of guides disposed on the base, the pair of guides being configured to guide the placement of the dry wiping cloth within the wiping cloth device.

13. The wiping cloth device according to claim 11, wherein, The accessory includes a base configured to be centrally positioned on the dry wiping cloth, such that a pair of flaps are tightly fastened around the dry wiping cloth.

14. The wiping cloth device according to claim 1, wherein, The wipe housing is configured to hold the wipe package dry, and the wipe device further includes a box configured to be attached to the package such that both the box and the package are contained within the wipe housing.

15. A wiping cloth device, comprising: A wipe housing configured to hold a dry wipe, the wipe housing including a side cover, a water-filling housing and a wipe removal structure; A wipe dispensing structure configured to allow a user to obtain and remove a wet wipe formed by wetting one of the dry wipes, the wipe dispensing structure including a wipe cartridge, the wipe cartridge including a wipe roll and a wipe roll holder, wherein the wipe roll holder includes a tearing mechanism configured to tear the wipe from the wipe roll when the wipe is pulled through the wipe removal structure; An evaporation unit comprising a cylindrical evaporator with a nozzle, wherein, when inserted into the wipe housing, the evaporation unit partially surrounds the wipe cartridge, and wherein the evaporation unit is configured to wet the outer layer of the wipe on the wipe cartridge; and A water container is connected to the evaporation unit and positioned in the water housing, wherein the water container is configured to hold water and additive particles dissolved in the water, and wherein the evaporation unit is configured to evaporate the composition of water and additives from the water container through the nozzle to wet the outer layer of the dry wipes on the wipe holder.

Images