Soap dispenser for mounting on taps

Abstract

Soap dispenser, comprehensive: a connection point (102) via which the soap dispenser can be attached to a tap; a water outlet (104); a cavity (106) extending between the connection point (102) and the water outlet (104), so that water from the tap can flow through the cavity (106) and out of the water outlet (104); a container (108) for holding soap, wherein the container (108) comprises an internal grinding mechanism (112); and an actuating device (110) which can be actuated to dispense soap from the container (108) so that soapy water can form below the soap dispenser.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a soap dispenser for attachment to faucets. background

[0002] Common soap dispensers are used as freestanding products or as wall-mounted products, for example.

[0003] US 3,777,982 A describes a dispensing device for delivering a water-soluble block (e.g., soap, shampoo, fertilizer) along with a liquid. The device comprises two housing parts with concentric chambers, with the liquid selectively flowing through either chamber. A rotating valve controls the flow through the inner chamber, while a sealing ring can close off the inflow to the outer chamber. A support holds the soluble block. The device is suitable for applications such as cleaning, fertilizing, or pest control.

[0004] WO 2005 / 095 722 A1 describes a water mixer that can be connected to existing sanitary fittings, such as showers or faucets, to add water-soluble additives to the water. The device has a mixing chamber for substances such as fragrances, cleaning agents, or active ingredients and allows switching between pure water, mixed water, or completely shutting off the water flow via an externally operated selector switch.

[0005] CH 300 531 A describes a scraping device for solid scraping material, especially for soap.

[0006] Conventional soap dispensers are operated by a pump mechanism, dispensing a concentrated soap with each pump. Alternatively, soap dispensers with an electronic sensor, but the same operating principle, are available. These pump-type soap dispensers can only be used with liquid, viscous soap.

[0007] Conventional soap dispensers are typically disposed of after being completely emptied and replaced with a new one. Alternatively, existing soap dispensers are refilled with soap concentrate. Soap concentrates are in liquid form, making their transport and production unsustainable.

[0008] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a more sustainable soap dispenser. Summary of the invention

[0009] The solution to this problem, in the case of the soap dispenser of the type mentioned above, consists in particular in the fact that the soap dispenser comprises a connection point via which the soap dispenser can be attached to a tap; a water outlet; a cavity extending between the connection point and the water outlet, so that water from the tap can flow through the cavity and out of the water outlet; a container for receiving soap; and an actuating device that can be actuated to dispense soap from the container, so that soapy water can be produced below the soap dispenser.

[0010] When in use, the soap dispenser is mounted to a faucet. Water flows through the hollow space within the dispenser. The container encloses this space. When the dispenser is activated, soap, for example in the form of powder, granules, or sticks, is dispensed and can be mixed with water in the hands. This creates soapy water below the dispenser. The soap dispenser is attached to the faucet via a connection point. The soap can be in the form of liquid soap, soap powder, granules, or sticks. Powder, granules, and sticks are environmentally friendly because the material is more space-efficient and energy-efficient to transport, and can be dispensed more precisely. Mounting the soap dispenser directly to the faucet makes it very space-saving and eliminates the need for a freestanding unit or a separate wall-mounted product.

[0011] In one embodiment, the container is arranged concentrically around the cavity. This makes advantageous use of the space at the tap.

[0012] According to the invention, the container includes an internal grinding mechanism. The grinding mechanism is located, in particular, at the end of the longitudinal axis of the cavity opposite the connection point. The grinding mechanism allows the use of coarse soap powders, granules, or sticks. Soap in these forms is easier to transport and requires less raw material, such as water, in its production. This makes the use of the soap dispenser according to the invention more sustainable. The material is ground before it is dispensed and mixed with the water. Grinding enables a more homogeneous mixture. Especially when using soap granules, material consumption is reduced by additional grinding, as the granules are further reduced in size.

[0013] In one embodiment, the grinder is closed when the dispenser is not activated. This protects the grinder from splashing water. Activating the dispenser opens the grinder and dispenses the powder. The grinder then closes again immediately. This prevents the soap from clumping or dissolving prematurely.

[0014] In another embodiment, the soap is in the form of, in particular, cylindrical soap sticks. These soap sticks are then ground into soap chips in the mill and dispensed in this form. Using soap sticks allows for advantageous use of the container's volume, enabling the storage of a large quantity of soap in this reservoir. In this embodiment, the closure mechanism at the outlet is unnecessary, as the soap sticks are robust and do not require protection from splashing water.

[0015] In one embodiment, the actuating device controls the opening and closing of the container. In other words, actuating the device dispenses portions of the container's contents. This controlled dispensing of soap material through actuating the device results in more economical material consumption and a consistent soap-to-water ratio in the soapy water.

[0016] In one embodiment, the actuating device controls the operation, in particular the rotation, of the grinder. This embodiment is preferably used when employing soap sticks, as a closure is not required. When the actuating mechanism is activated, the grinder dispenses a quantity of ground soap.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the actuating device controls the operation, in particular the rotation, of the grinder and simultaneously the opening and closing of the dispenser. If the actuating mechanism is not actuated, the container is closed.

[0018] This design is preferably used when employing soap powder or granules, as the closure ensures protection of the soap from splashing water. Furthermore, the simultaneous operation of the grinder and the opening allows for quick and easy handling of the soap dispenser.

[0019] In one embodiment, the actuating device dispenses soap in portions. This controlled dispensing of soap material through actuation of the device leads to more economical material consumption and a consistent soap-to-water ratio in the soapy water.

[0020] In one embodiment, the connection point includes a thread or a plug-in mechanism for connecting the soap dispenser to the tap. This allows the soap dispenser to be connected to the tap quickly and easily.

[0021] Another aspect of the invention describes a soap dispenser with an adapter for attaching the soap dispenser to a faucet. The adapter comprises a thread on a first side of the adapter, via which the adapter can be attached to a faucet; and a connecting piece on a second side of the adapter, opposite the first side, wherein the adapter can be connected to the soap dispenser via the connecting piece. In other words, the adapter is not only equipped with a thread for attachment to a faucet, but also includes an additional connecting piece to which the soap dispenser can be attached.

[0022] In one embodiment, the adapter also includes an aerator. The aerator mixes air into the water stream from the tap, thereby reducing water consumption.

[0023] In another embodiment, the connector has a plug connection. The plug connection is designed such that the adapter can be connected to the soap dispenser, in particular to the connection point of the soap dispenser. The soap dispenser can be quickly and easily mounted to the adapter. If necessary, the soap dispenser can also be quickly and easily removed.

[0024] In an alternative embodiment, the thread on the first side of the adapter is a first thread, and the connecting piece has a second thread, wherein the second thread can be connected to the soap dispenser, in particular to the connection point of the soap dispenser. The soap dispenser can be securely and stably mounted to the aerator.

[0025] In another embodiment, the adapter includes a lid. Specifically, the soap dispenser container can be covered with the lid. This protects the interior of the container from splashes, dust, or foreign objects. When refilling the container, only the soap dispenser needs to be detached from the adapter, while the lid of the container remains attached to the adapter on the tap. Particularly when combined with a quick and easy-to-release plug connection between the adapter and the soap dispenser, this allows for simple handling.

[0026] In one embodiment, the cavity is covered by the aerator when the soap dispenser is connected to the described adapter. The fit of the two components is such that the water from the tap first flows through the aerator, where it is mixed with air, and then flows through the soap dispenser.

[0027] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to several preferred embodiments.

[0028] It shows: Fig. 1 a soap dispenser according to one embodiment in side view; Fig. 2 a soap dispenser according to one embodiment under supervision; Fig. 3 a soap dispenser according to an embodiment in floor view; Fig. 4 a soap dispenser according to one embodiment in slanted bottom view; Fig. 5 an adapter according to an embodiment in side view; Fig. 6 a soap dispenser connected to an adapter according to an embodiment in side view. Fig. 7 a soap dispenser for use with soap sticks according to an embodiment in side view; Fig. 8 a soap dispenser for use with soap sticks according to an embodiment in slanted bottom view; Fig. 9 a soap dispenser for use with soap sticks connected with an adapter according to an embodiment in side view.

[0029] Identical or similar features are marked with identical or similar reference symbols. Reference symbol list 102 liaison point 104 Water outlet 106 cavity 108 containers 110 Actuating device 112 grinding mechanism 114 slides 202 threads 204 Connecting piece 206 aerators 208 lids 302 bracket

[0030] Fig. Figure 1 shows a soap dispenser according to the invention in side view, and Fig. Figure 2 shows the soap dispenser from above. A container 108 concentrically encloses a cavity 106, as shown in Figure 2. Fig. 2 visible. The cavity 106 extends between a connection point 102 and a water outlet 104. The soap dispenser can be connected to a tap via the connection point 102. Water can then flow from the tap through the connection point 102 and the cavity 106 and exit the soap dispenser through the water outlet 104.

[0031] The liaison point 102 comprises in Fig. 1. A thread for connection to the tap, or for connection to the adapter described below. Alternatively, connection point 102 can be implemented using a plug-in mechanism.

[0032] Container 108 contains soap. The soap can be in the form of powder, granules, or sticks. Container 108 also contains an internal grinder 112. The grinder 112 is located on the side of the cavity 106 opposite the connection point 102. In an alternative embodiment, the grinder 112 can be designed as an insert within the container so that it can be removed and reinserted, for example, for cleaning.

[0033] The soap dispenser further comprises an actuating device 110. In this embodiment, the actuating device 110 controls the opening and closing of the container 108, as well as the actuation of the grinder 112. In particular, a rotatable grinding tool of the grinder 112 can be moved such that soap material is mechanically ground or crushed between the rotatable and a fixed grinding tool of the grinder 112. The grinder 112 can correspond to known grinders, such as those found in spice mills. The opening and closing of the container 108 can be effected, for example, by a screw-on / screw-off mechanism of a cap. For example, the container can contain a cap in the form of a ring segment. The ring segment can cover an opening in the container 108 and, when closed, protect the contents of the container from splashing water.When the actuating device 110 is activated, the cap is rotated in such a way that a recess in the ring segment of the cap releases the opening of the container, allowing soap to escape.

[0034] The actuating device 110 is actuated by a slider 114. The slider 114 can be a sliding control, as in Fig. 1. The actuation of the slide 114 is translated into the rotation of a closure flap and / or the rotation of a grinding tool of the grinder. The slide 114 can trigger a rotary mechanism of the actuating device 110. Alternatively, the slide 114 can also trigger an electronic actuation for dispensing soap.

[0035] Fig. Figure 3 shows the soap dispenser from below. Fig. Figure 4 shows the soap dispenser from a low angle. In particular, the opening of the container 108 to the cavity 106 and the arrangement of the internal grinder 112 are visible.

[0036] In the resting state of the actuating device 110, the container 108 is closed and the grinder 112 is inactive. When the actuating device 110 is actuated, the soap material inside the container 108 is ground by the grinder 112 and released from the bottom of the container when it is opened. Specifically, the soap is dispensed in portions and in a controlled manner. The portion size can be preset or adjustable.

[0037] In an alternative, unused version, the container 108 can also contain liquid soap or liquid soap concentrate. In this version, the container 108 does not contain a grinder 112. In this version, the actuating device 110 controls the opening and closing of the container 108.

[0038] Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of an adapter according to the invention for attaching the soap dispenser to the tap. The adapter comprises a thread 202 on one side and a connecting piece 204 on the opposite side. The thread 202 serves to attach the adapter to the tap. In particular, the adapter includes a commercially available aerator 206 with an internal thread for screwing on with a 22 mm metric thread (trade designation IG M22) and / or an external thread for screwing in with a 24 × 1 mm metric fine thread (trade designation AG M24). Alternatively, the adapter can also have threads 202 of sizes M18, M20, M21, M22, or M28. The connecting piece 204 serves to connect the adapter to the soap dispenser, or to the connection point 102 of the soap dispenser. The adapter further includes a cover part or lid 208.The lid 208 is designed in such a way that it can close or flush cover the container 108 of the soap dispenser below.

[0039] The connecting piece 204 in Fig. 5 has a second thread and can be connected to the connection point 102 of the soap dispenser. Alternatively, the connecting piece 204 can have a plug connection designed to be connected to the connection point 102 of the soap dispenser.

[0040] Fig. Figure 6 shows the connection of a soap dispenser as in Fig. 1-4 shown and an adapter as in Fig. Figure 5 shows the two components connected by threads at connection point 102 of the soap dispenser and connector 204 of the adapter. The adapter also includes a flow regulator 206, which covers the cavity 106 of the soap dispenser. The container 108 is covered by the lid 208.

[0041] In an alternative embodiment, the soap is in the form of cylindrical sticks inside the container 108. Fig. Figures 7-9 show a soap dispenser comprising holders 302 for stabilizing the soap sticks inside the container 108 in side view and from a low angle. The holders 302 preferably have threads on their surface into which the soap sticks can be screwed. Fig. Figure 9 shows a soap dispenser for use with soap sticks, including holders 302, in conjunction with the adapter in side view.

[0042] For example, the soap sticks can be contained within the container 108, following its shape and filling the entire space. In this embodiment, the actuating device 110 preferably controls only the actuation of the grinding mechanism. In this configuration, the container 108 can remain open, since the soap sticks do not need to be protected from splashing water and are securely held within the container 108.

Claims

[1] Soap dispensers, including: a connection point (102) via which the soap dispenser can be attached to a tap; a water outlet (104); a cavity (106) extending between the connection point (102) and the water outlet (104), so that water from the tap can flow through the cavity (106) and out of the water outlet (104); a container (108) for holding soap, wherein the container (108) comprises an internal grinding mechanism (112); and an actuating device (110) which can be actuated to dispense soap from the container (108) so that soapy water can form below the soap dispenser. [2] Soap dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the container (108) is arranged concentrically around the cavity (106). [3] Soap dispenser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the grinder (112) is arranged at the end of the longitudinal axis of the cavity (106) opposite the connection point (102). [4] Soap dispenser according to claim 3, wherein the grinder (112) is closed when the actuating device (110) is not actuated. [5] Soap dispenser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the soap dispenser is designed to hold soap in the form of, in particular cylindrical, soap sticks, preferably wherein the soap dispenser additionally comprises holders (302) for holding the soap sticks. [6] Soap dispenser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating device (110) is configured to control the opening and closing of the container (108) or the actuation, in particular the rotation, of the grinder (112). [7] Soap dispenser according to one of claims 3-5, wherein the actuating device (110) is designed for actuating, in particular rotating, the grinder (112) and simultaneously for opening and closing the container (108). [8] Soap dispenser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the soap dispenser is designed to dispense soap in portions by actuating the actuating device (110). [9] Soap dispenser according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connection point (102) comprises a thread or a plug-in mechanism for connecting the soap dispenser to the tap. [10] Soap dispenser according to one of claims 1-9 with an adapter for attaching the soap dispenser to a tap, wherein the adapter comprises: a thread (202) on a first side of the adapter, via which the adapter can be attached to a tap; a connecting piece (204) on a second side of the adapter opposite the first side, wherein the adapter can be connected to the soap dispenser via the connecting piece (204). [11] Soap dispenser according to claim 10, wherein the adapter additionally comprises a flow regulator (206). [12] Soap dispenser according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the connecting piece (204) has a plug connection which is designed such that the adapter can be connected to the soap dispenser, in particular to the connection point (102) of the soap dispenser. [13] Soap dispenser according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the thread (202) on the first side of the adapter is a first thread and the connecting piece (204) has a second thread and wherein the second thread can be connected to the soap dispenser, in particular to the connection point (102) of the soap dispenser. [14] Soap dispenser according to one of claims 10-13, wherein the adapter comprises a lid (208), in particular wherein the container (108) of the soap dispenser can be covered with the lid (208). [15] Soap dispenser according to one of claims 11-14, wherein the cavity (106) is covered by the aerator (206) when the soap dispenser is connected to the adapter.

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