Dispensing system and method for its operation, washing unit and dispensing unit

Abstract

The dispensing system (1) for dispensing a fluid, which is water or an aqueous mixture, comprises a dispensing unit (2) and a cleaning unit (3). The dispensing unit comprises: a connection unit (21) for connecting the dispensing unit (2) to a source of fluid; a dispensing head (23) for dispensing the fluid; and a flexible hose (22) for guiding the fluid from the connection unit (21) to the dispensing head (23). The cleaning unit (3) comprises: a cleaning attachment unit (31) for attaching the cleaning unit (3) to the dispensing unit (2), in particular to the connection unit (21); a cleaning fluid delivery unit (32) configured to deliver cleaning fluid to the dispensing unit (2) via the cleaning attachment unit (31); and a receptacle unit (33) configured to accommodate the dispensing head (23) and to receive fluid exiting the dispensing head (23).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of sanitary equipment. The present invention relates to a dispensing system and a method for its operation, as well as to a washing unit and a dispensing unit, as defined in the preambles of the corresponding independent claims. [Background technology]

[0002] WO 2020 / 070159 discloses a showerhead having one or more cartridges, each of which produces a spray of water by means of impinging water jets.

[0003] Typical problems that arise in this context are fouling of the inner walls of the hose and the accumulation of limescale inside and also outside the dispensing head, around the nozzles of the dispensing head. Fouling is typically caused by biofilm growth, i.e. bacterial growth. Fouling and limescale are collectively referred to as deposits.

[0004] JP2002102843A discloses a bath water passage disinfection / cleaning system with a steam generator and a valve arrangement for directing steam through the water supply conduits between the water tank and the bath water use terminal in order to disinfect these conduits. When this is done, the steam is directed to a steam capture means instead of the bath water use terminal. In one embodiment, pulsating steam with fluctuating pressure and / or debit and / or temperature is generated to enhance the cleaning effect. According to other embodiments, heat recovery means are provided, a valve arrangement is provided for reversing the flow of steam in the conduits, an additional supply of cold water is provided to cool the conduits, a valve is provided to prevent damage from high temperature stems, a heat pump unit is provided for recovering waste heat from the bath water, or a fuel cell system is provided for generating heat for generating steam.

[0005] WO2018122206 discloses a system for use by hairdressers that includes a shower head capable of dispensing water mixed with treatment and cleaning additives, and a wash basin into which the hair of the person to be treated is placed.

[0006] US Patent Publication No. 2010126541 discloses a cleaning device for cleaning spray guns, particularly paint spray guns, that has separate chambers for manually cleaning and drying the spray gun and for storing fresh cleaning fluid and collecting used cleaning fluid.

[0007] No. 9,079,204 discloses a showerhead cleaning adapter that is connected to an inlet pipe to a showerhead, which can be manually operated to release cleaning fluid into the showerhead.

[0008] US Patent Publication No. 2018071763 discloses a container that can be suspended from a showerhead, allowing the showerhead to be submerged in a cleaning fluid. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The object of the present invention is to create a dispensing system of the initially mentioned type and a method for its operation, as well as a washing unit and a dispensing unit, which offer improvements over the prior art.

[0010] A further possible object of the present invention is to create a dispensing system and a method for its operation, as well as a washing unit and a dispensing unit which perform maintenance operations for maintaining the dispensing unit.

[0011] A further possible object of the present invention is to create an integrated dispensing system comprising a dispensing unit and a cleaning unit for carrying out maintenance operations for maintaining the dispensing unit, and a corresponding method.

[0012] A further possible object of the present invention is to create a dispensing system and a method for its operation for performing a cleaning operation on an object other than the dispensing system itself.

[0013] A further possible object of the present invention is to create a dispensing system and a method for its operation that allows accurate and rapid control of the temperature of the dispensed liquid, in particular water.

[0014] A further possible object of the present invention is to create a dispensing system and a method for its operation for producing a mixture of a liquid, in particular water, and an additive. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] One or more of these objects are achieved by a dispensing system and a method for its operation, as well as a washing unit and a dispensing unit, according to the corresponding claims.

[0016] According to a first aspect, the washing attachment unit and the connection unit are configured to be coupled to each other before operating the washing unit to wash the dispensing unit and then performing a maintenance operation to detach the washing attachment unit from the connection unit, the coupling and detachment being performed manually without the use of tools.

[0017] According to a first aspect, a dispensing system for dispensing a fluid, which is water or an aqueous mixture, comprises a dispensing unit and a washing unit, the dispensing unit comprising: a connection unit for connecting the dispensing unit to a source of fluid; a dispensing head for dispensing a fluid; a conduit, in particular a flexible hose, for conducting the fluid from the connection unit to the dispensing head, the cleaning unit comprising: a washing attachment unit for attaching the washing unit to a dispensing unit, in particular to a connection unit; a washing fluid delivery unit configured to deliver washing fluid to the dispensing unit via the washing attachment unit; a receptacle unit configured to accommodate the dispensing head and receive fluid from the dispensing head.

[0018] According to a second aspect, the washing unit is permanently attached to the dispensing unit, in which case the elements of the dispensing unit and the elements of the washing unit are part of an integrated dispensing system.

[0019] According to a second aspect, a dispensing system for dispensing a fluid, which is water or an aqueous mixture, comprises a dispensing unit and a washing unit, the dispensing unit comprising: a connection unit for connecting the dispensing unit to a source of fluid; a dispensing head for dispensing a fluid; a conduit, in particular a flexible hose, for conducting the fluid from the connection unit to the dispensing head, the cleaning unit comprising: a cleaning mixture preparation unit for supplying the cleaning mixture to the connected unit; a washing fluid delivery unit configured to deliver washing fluid to the dispensing unit via the washing attachment unit; Optionally, a receptacle unit configured to accommodate the dispensing head and receive fluid from the dispensing head.

[0020] According to both aspects, the dispensing system is configured to have a normal mode of operation in which fluid is dispensed through the dispensing head and a maintenance mode of operation in which cleaning fluid is dispensed through the dispensing head.

[0021] The following embodiments relate to at least the first and second aspects. In an embodiment, the washing unit or washing fluid delivery unit comprises: · Means for supplying a cleaning fluid to the conduit or hose, the cleaning fluid comprising steam or water or air or a mixture of two or more of steam and air and water and a cleaning agent.

[0022] In an embodiment, the dispensing system comprises a mixing unit or mixing valve for selecting between a flow of water or a flow of cleaning mixture from a water supply source and / or for mixing the flow of water with the flow of cleaning mixture; In particular, the mixing unit or the mixing valve is part of the connection unit or the mixing unit or the mixing valve is part of the wash attachment unit, and water from the water mixer is guided from the connection unit to the wash attachment unit.

[0023] In the cleaning mode, a flow of cleaning mixture or a mixture of water and cleaning mixture, collectively referred to as cleaning fluid, is provided to the hose and dispensing head.

[0024] In an embodiment, the connection unit allows simply switching between the flow of water from the water source and the flow of the cleaning mixture.

[0025] In embodiments where the mixing unit or mixing valve is part of the cleaning mounting unit, a water supply conduit may be arranged to supply water from the cleaning mounting unit to the cleaning fluid delivery unit to produce steam and / or to a boiler to produce hot water.

[0026] In an embodiment, the scrubbing unit comprises a second mixer, in particular a venturi injector, for admixing the scrubbing premix with the steam flow to provide the scrubbing mixture, thereby generating the scrubbing mixture.

[0027] In an embodiment, the washing unit comprises a third mixer, in particular a mixing chamber, for mixing air into the flow of washing water, thereby generating the washing premix, to provide the washing premix.

[0028] In an embodiment, the washing unit comprises a fourth mixer, in particular an additive mixer, for mixing a washing agent into the water flow to provide the washing water, thereby generating the washing water.

[0029] In an embodiment, a check valve is positioned in the flow of the wash premix to the second mixer or venturi injector, particularly after the third mixer or mixing chamber.

[0030] In an embodiment, a control valve or a water pump is configured to supply wash water to the mixing chamber.

[0031] In an embodiment, the water pump is configured to supply the wash water to the mixing chamber, the water pump being a positive displacement pump, such as a peristaltic pump.

[0032] In an embodiment, a controlled or static valve is configured to supply air, in particular ambient air, to the mixing chamber.

[0033] In an embodiment, the dispensing system includes a safety shut-off valve disposed in the vapor supply conduit. In an embodiment, the dispensing system includes: ·vapor, Steam, air and water mixtures, mixtures comprising a cleaning agent, in particular where the cleaning agent is provided as part of a mixture of cleaning agent with water and optionally air, in particular where this mixture is mixed with a steam stream, Pulse method, sequences of the above vapours and mixtures, in particular cyclically repeated sequences; Fluid sequences at several different temperatures, especially cyclically repeated sequences; Mixtures containing oil in combination with a foaming agent such as bicarbonate or steam, configured to deliver in one or more forms of a mixture including a treatment agent that remains adhered onto the inner surface of the dispensing unit, in particular to prevent accumulation of deposits on the surface of the dispensing unit.

[0034] By choosing the ratio in which the air, steam and water are mixed, it is possible to create a turbulent flow that helps remove the deposits. If the ratio of water to steam is relatively low, a sputtering flow can be generated, i.e. a steam flow with intermittent droplets or splashes of water. This also makes it possible to improve the removal of the deposits.

[0035] The alternating flow of hot and cold fluids creates thermal stresses in the calcified areas, aiding in their destruction and removal. The temperature can be determined by the fluid, for example water at the temperature provided by the mains, and steam.

[0036] In an embodiment, the dispensing system is configured to deliver cleaning fluid, particularly in the form of hot water above 70°, under main pressure or under high pressure, to the conduits or hoses and the dispensing head for heating these elements in order to sterilize these elements.

[0037] In an embodiment, the dispensing system is configured to deliver cleaning fluid in the form of steam with periodic pulses of water, optionally with further fluid components, being added and driven through the dispensing unit by the pressure of the steam.

[0038] The vapor pressure can accelerate the relatively small mass of water in each pulse, increasing its kinetic energy, thereby providing a mechanical impulse that aids in removing deposits.

[0039] In an embodiment, the dispensing system is configured to add, as an additional component, a drug having a boiling point lower than that of water.

[0040] This means that when the agent after entering the steam stream is heated by the steam, it vaporizes and increases the pressure of the fluid, further accelerating the flow and increasing its impact on the deposits.

[0041] In an embodiment, the dispensing system is configured to switch between different configurations for delivering the wash fluid; In particular, it is arranged to supply a cleaning fluid comprising a cleaning agent and / or a foaming agent, to react it with the deposits in the hose and the dispensing head, and then to rinse the hose and the dispensing head, in particular with water or steam.

[0042] In an embodiment, the dispensing system is configured to apply different cleaning cycles to the same dispensing unit over time, a first type of cleaning cycle being applied at a shorter time interval and a second type of cleaning cycle being applied at a longer time interval; In particular, a first type of cleaning cycle is a less intensive one, for example involving the application of steam only, and a second type of cleaning cycle is a more intensive one, for example involving the application of a cleaning agent.

[0043] In an embodiment, the shorter interval may be daily, while the longer interval is weekly, hi an embodiment, the longer interval is more than five times longer than the shorter interval.

[0044] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit comprises a coolant storage element for storing a coolant fluid, configured to cool a dispensing head arranged in the receptacle unit; In particular, the coolant storage element comprises an open-pore sponge for holding cooling water.

[0045] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit comprises a heat sink element for absorbing heat from the cleaning fluid exiting the dispensing head disposed therein; In particular, the heat absorbing element comprises an open-pore sponge of heat absorbing material, in particular of a metallic or ceramic material.

[0046] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit includes: a guide element for guiding a jet of cleaning fluid leaving the nozzle back towards the outlet in the area around the nozzle in order to clean the area around the nozzle; Comprising one or more of a nozzle, in particular a nozzle for spraying a cleaning fluid, or a separate cleaning element for cleaning the outlet in the area around a mechanical cleaning element such as a brush.

[0047] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit comprises a gasket that prevents the flow of cleaning fluid exiting the dispensing head from reaching an outer surface of the dispensing head, thereby protecting the dispensing head from hot and / or aggressive cleaning fluids.

[0048] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit comprises a detector of the presence of a dispensing head in the receptacle unit, and the dispensing system is configured to apply a cleaning cycle only when a dispensing head is located in the receptacle unit.

[0049] The following embodiments do not relate to the second aspect. In an embodiment, the connection unit automatically enables only water from the water source to be supplied to the dispensing head when not connected to or powered by the washing attachment unit.

[0050] This provides a fail-safe mode which prevents hot cleaning mixture from being supplied to the dispensing head in the event of failure of the connection unit's power supply.

[0051] In an embodiment, the cleaning attachment unit comprises a motor for driving a mixing unit or mixing valve in the connection unit and a force transmission element that interacts with a force receiving element of the connection unit to transmit a driving force to the mixing unit or mixing valve.

[0052] The force transmitting and force receiving elements can be, for example, positive lock transmitting elements or magnetically coupled elements. They provide a mechanical interface for driving the mixing unit or mixing valve.

[0053] In an embodiment, the connection unit comprises an electrically controlled mixing unit or an electrically controlled mixing valve, and the connection unit and cleaning attachment unit comprise electrical connectors for driving the electrically controlled mixing unit or mixing valve within the connection unit.

[0054] This provides an electrical interface for driving a mixing unit or mixing valve.

[0055] The following embodiments relate to at least the first and second aspects. In an embodiment, the dispensing system is configured to issue a warning signal prior to and / or during an operational mode in which cleaning fluid is supplied to a dispensing head located outside the receptacle unit.

[0056] In this way, the user is alerted that the dispensing system is in a mode in which potentially harmful cleaning fluid is dispensed as opposed to normal operation of the dispensing unit. The warning signal can be one or more of an optical signal and an acoustic signal. The warning signal can be activated by the controller or by the temperature of the fluid in the dispensing unit, for example by including a thermochromic material.

[0057] In an embodiment, in a water temperature control mode, the dispensing system is configured to dispense water through the dispensing head and control the temperature of the water by adjusting the amount of steam added to the water.

[0058] This temperature control is particularly applicable to embodiments in which the dispense unit and the wash unit are an integrated unit of the dispense system.

[0059] In an embodiment, the dispensing system includes a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the water after the steam has been admixed, and is configured to vary the amount of steam added so that the temperature of the water reaches a set point temperature.

[0060] The water can be preheated to a temperature below the set point temperature, so that only the energy difference to the set point temperature needs to be supplied by added steam. The high energy content of the steam and the close physical proximity of its miscibility with the water allow the water temperature to track the set point quickly.

[0061] This allows for almost instantaneous provision of a flow of water at the desired temperature and allows for rapid variation in the temperature of the delivered water compared to adjusting the temperature by varying a mixture of hot and cold water from a main water source or a water tank or boiler.

[0062] The following embodiments do not relate to the second aspect. In an embodiment, the dispensing system comprises elements for implementing wireless communication between the connection unit and the washing attachment unit.

[0063] In an embodiment, the wireless communication comprises: By an RFID tag located in the connection unit and an RFID detector located in the wash attachment unit, or by a near-field communication link between the connection unit and the cleaning mounting unit; The cleaning unit is configured to determine an identity of the connection unit via wireless communication.

[0064] In an embodiment, the cleaning unit is configured such that an optical reader on the cleaning attachment unit determines the identity of the connection unit by reading a visual code on the connection unit.

[0065] The following embodiments relate to at least the first and second aspects. In an embodiment, the wash unit is configured to transmit and / or store wash data relating to a wash operation of the wash unit in association with the identity of the connected unit.

[0066] The identification information is a unique identifier, such as a serial number, a network address, etc. The wash data may include one or more of the date, time, duration and type of wash cycle applied to the dispensing unit of which the identified connected unit is a part. The wash data, and other data related to the connected unit or dispensing units in general, may be uploaded to a remote server system. The remote server system may be distributed or cloud-based. The data may be used for planning maintenance operations, supplying consumables, etc.

[0067] In an embodiment, the dispensing unit is configured to record and store usage data representative of usage of the dispensing unit during its normal operation, and the washing unit is configured to read the usage data from the dispensing unit.

[0068] The usage data may include one or more of the following: date and time of operation, amount of water consumed, and water temperature. This allows the washing unit to be used to collect data from the dispensing unit by an energy-efficient near-field data transmission protocol that relies on physical proximity as opposed to, for example, a WiFi protocol, which allows the dispensing unit to be equipped with a small, long-lasting battery or no battery at all.

[0069] In an embodiment, the dispense unit is configured to receive and store data representative of at least one of wash data and dispense unit operating parameters from the wash unit. The wash data may include at least a date of a most recent wash operation. The dispense unit operating parameters may be used to control operation of the dispense unit.

[0070] In an embodiment, the cleaning unit is configured to retransmit the usage data to a remote data collection unit by means of a further wireless communication protocol, in particular by means of WiFi or Bluetooth protocol (Bluetooth is a registered trademark).

[0071] Thus, it is not necessary for each connected unit to be reachable by WiFi; usage data can be read by the close proximity of the cleaning attachment unit and, at another point in time, when the cleaning unit is in a position reachable by a further wireless communication protocol, the usage data can be transferred to the data collection unit.

[0072] In an embodiment, the dispensing system comprises: - filling at least a portion of the receptacle unit with cooling water via a conduit or hose or via a separate cooling water conduit; - delivering a hot cleaning fluid for cleaning the dispensing head, the hot cleaning fluid comprising, for example, steam or hot water; Optionally, replacing the cooling water warmed by the hot cleaning fluid with fresh cooling water.

[0073] In an embodiment, the dispensing system, after a cleaning cycle for cleaning the dispensing unit, - rinsing the heat absorbing element with a rinsing fluid delivered via a hose; · rinsing the receptacle unit by at least one of the steps of: · rinsing the coolant storage element by a rinsing fluid supplied through the cooling water conduit.

[0074] In both cases, the rinsing fluid may be water or steam, optionally containing cleaning and / or treatment agents. After leaving the receptacle unit 33, the rinsing fluid may be drained into a sink or collected in a waste water tank of the washing unit 3.

[0075] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit comprises at least one vibration generator for generating vibrations, in particular ultrasonic vibrations, for removing deposits from a dispensing head arranged in the receptacle unit.

[0076] In an embodiment, the vibration generator is configured to transmit vibrations through the water in the dispensing head to the sediment.

[0077] This can be used to induce cavitation in the water, thereby creating a pressure impulse that helps remove deposits.

[0078] In an embodiment, the at least one vibration generator is positioned to contact an outer shell of the dispensing head when the dispensing head is disposed within the receptacle unit in position for cleaning.

[0079] In an embodiment, the dispensing head comprises an outer shell and an inner conduit, and the at least one vibration transmitter is configured to transmit vibrations generated by the vibration generator from the outer shell to the inner conduit.

[0080] In an embodiment, the vibration transmitter is a section of material connecting the outer shell to the inner conduit, in particular at a position corresponding to or close to the position of the deposit in the inner conduit and corresponding to or close to the position of the vibration generator when the dispensing head is placed in the receptacle unit, whereby the vibration transmitter forms a bridge and transmits vibrations to the position of the deposit via the shortest path, in particular through the dispensing head.

[0081] In an embodiment, the at least one vibration generator is positioned to transmit vibrations to the area around the nozzle of the dispensing head, in particular by the at least one vibration generator being positioned outside the dispensing head and facing the nozzle.

[0082] In an embodiment, the inner conduit and its connection to the outer shell are configured to have a vibration node of the inner conduit at a selected frequency of the vibration transmitter in a location where deposits are likely to accumulate when vibrated by the vibration transmitter.

[0083] In some embodiments, the receptacle unit is part of or attached to the cleaning fluid delivery unit, in particular the cleaning fluid delivery unit configured to collect used cleaning fluid.

[0084] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit includes an outlet through which used cleaning fluid and / or cooling water can be discharged from the receptacle unit, which may be into a bathtub, shower or sink in which the dispensing unit is installed.

[0085] In an embodiment, the mixing unit comprises: a mixing cartridge with one degree of freedom, making it possible to set the relative amounts of water and cleaning mixture, or One of a kind mixing cartridges with two degrees of freedom, allowing the relative and total amounts of water and cleaning mixture to be set.

[0086] In some embodiments, the mixing unit is a ceramic mixing cartridge. In other embodiments, two or more mixing valves, particularly ceramic valves, are present in place of the mixing unit.

[0087] In an embodiment, the dispensing system is configured such that the washing unit delivers water through the dispensing head to cool the receptacle unit.

[0088] In an embodiment, the wash unit comprises a cooling water conduit for delivering water for cooling the receptacle unit, the cooling water conduit being separate and not the same as a conduit or hose.

[0089] In an embodiment, the cleaning unit comprises an additional cleaning fluid conduit for delivering cleaning fluid to the receptacle unit for cleaning the dispensing head, in particular the area around the nozzle of the dispensing head.

[0090] In an embodiment, the lavage unit comprises a water supply conduit for delivering fresh water from the lavage mounting unit to the lavage fluid delivery unit.

[0091] In an embodiment, the washing unit comprises an operation mode in which the dispensing head is supplied with washing fluid when the dispensing head is positioned outside the receptacle unit.

[0092] In this way, the cleaning unit in combination with the hose and the dispensing head can be used to clean other objects in the vicinity of the dispensing unit. In particular, the cleaning fluid may be steam, thus sterilizing such other objects. Such other objects are typically part of sanitary facilities such as showers, bathtubs, washbasins, toilets, etc.

[0093] In an embodiment, the washing unit comprises a separate outlet for applying steam to an object other than the dispensing unit, in particular an outlet provided by washing fluid from the washing fluid delivery unit through a separate conduit.

[0094] According to a third aspect of the invention, a dispensing system comprises a dispensing unit and a steam generating unit and is configured to dispense water through a dispensing head and control the temperature of the water by adjusting the amount of steam added to the water.

[0095] A dispensing system for dispensing a fluid, which is water or an aqueous mixture, into a hygiene or body care device, comprising: a dispensing unit comprising a dispensing head for dispensing a fluid and a conduit, in particular a flexible hose, for guiding the fluid to the dispensing head; A steam generating unit; a mixer for combining steam provided by the steam generating unit with the optionally preheated water or aqueous mixture and for supplying the resulting mixture to a conduit or hose, the dispensing system being configured to control the temperature of the resulting mixture by adjusting the amount of steam added to the water.

[0096] This type of dispensing system may be part of a hairdresser sink and shower apparatus, or a point of care system.

[0097] The cleaning unit for use with the dispensing system is a washing attachment unit for attaching the washing unit to a dispensing unit, in particular to a connection unit; a washing fluid delivery unit configured to deliver washing fluid to the dispensing unit via the washing attachment unit; a receptacle unit configured to accommodate the dispensing head and receive fluid from the dispensing head.

[0098] The connection unit for use with the dispensing system is an inlet for a flow of a fluid, in particular water, an inlet for a flow of a cleaning mixture (CM) and an outlet for a mixture of the fluid and the cleaning mixture; a mixing unit or at least two mixing valves for controlling the mixing of the flow of cleaning mixture (CM) into the flow of fluid (W), - Equipped with an electrical or mechanical interface for driving the mixing unit or mixing valve.

[0099] In an embodiment, the claimed connection unit is configured to automatically enable only water from the water supply source to be supplied to the dispensing head when it is not connected to or powered by the washing attachment unit.

[0100] In an embodiment, the connection unit comprises a biasing element which places the mixing unit or mixing valve in a state in which the flow of cleaning mixture (CM) to the outlet is blocked and the flow of water (W) to the outlet is free when the connection unit is not powered.

[0101] In an embodiment, the connection unit comprises: an element for wireless communication with a cleaning attachment unit configured to be connected to the connection unit; Alternatively, such a cleaning attachment unit is provided with an element for identifying the connection unit, in particular this element being an RFID tag identifying the connection unit or an optical code identifying the connection unit.

[0102] The method for operating a dispensing system includes the steps of: sterilizing the dispensing unit; - demineralizing the dispensing unit; and one or more steps of: a preventive treatment step for the dispensing unit.

[0103] In an embodiment, at least two sterilization operations and at least two demineralization operations are alternated, followed by a final processing operation.

[0104] In an embodiment, a maintenance program defining a sequence of maintenance operations can be programmed by a user with a higher level of privilege, such as an administrator, a technical expert, a computer system configured to optimize operations, etc. The program can be modified wirelessly or directly on the cleaning unit. A user with a lower level of privilege can select from a selection of non-modifiable maintenance programs. In an embodiment, the maintenance program is selected automatically according to the identity of the dispense unit.

[0105] 1. A method for operating a dispensing system, the dispensing system having an operational mode for performing a cleaning operation on an object other than the dispensing system itself, the method comprising: - issuing a warning signal when the dispensing system is in said mode of operation; - operating a presence detection unit and preventing operation of the dispensing system in said operational mode if the presence detection unit detects the presence of a person at the treatment location.

[0106] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of producing a mixture of a fluid and an additive. The method for producing a mixture of a liquid and an additive comprises the steps of: Producing a vapor mixture comprising a vaporized fluid and a vaporized additive; Injecting the vaporized mixture into a liquid stream; condensing the vaporized mixture in a liquid, thereby producing a mixture of the liquid and the additive.

[0107] Because the vaporized additive as part of the vaporized mixture has a relatively large volume compared to its liquid state, by controlling the flow of the vaporized mixture, the absolute amount of additive can be controlled much more precisely than by controlling the flow of the additive in its liquid state.

[0108] Moreover, due to the relatively large amount of evaporated additive, the additive is strongly diluted after injection into the liquid stream. It is therefore possible to provide the additive in a highly concentrated form. The additive can be manufactured and transported to the point of use without the addition of inert filler materials. This reduces the manufacturing costs, the transportation costs, and either the size of the additive container at the point of use or the time interval for refilling such containers.

[0109] The additives may be for cosmetic or hair care applications, or for medical applications, plant treatment and technical applications. In each type of application, high concentrations of additives are used and highly diluted but precisely controlled mixtures, especially emulsions, are made and applied immediately at the point of use.

[0110] In an embodiment, the method includes dispensing a mixture of a liquid and an additive to a point of application.

[0111] The dispensing system may be a shower in a bathroom or may be combined with a sink and is used for washing or showering the human body and / or for beauty or hair care applications, e.g. for use by a professional hairdresser.

[0112] In other applications, the dispensing system and corresponding method are implemented in conjunction with devices for medical applications where fluids are delivered for human or animal use through conduits that are prone to deposit formation, or where additional devices need to be sterilized periodically. This is particularly true for devices that are not compatible with autoclaving, such as tracheal endoscopes or similar devices. In medical settings, the dispensing system and corresponding method can also be used to incorporate additives into a liquid stream prior to application at the point of use in a normal operating mode, as opposed to a cleaning or maintenance operating mode.

[0113] The different aspects can be implemented separately or in combination, in particular the third and fourth aspects can be implemented in combination with the first or second aspects.

[0114] Further embodiments are evident from the dependent claims. Features of the method claims may be combined with features of the device claims and vice versa.

[0115] The subject matter of the invention is explained in more detail in the following text with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the attached drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0116] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a dispensing system having a separate dispensing unit and a washing unit. [Diagram 2] FIG. 11 shows the same view assembled for cleaning the dispensing unit. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a detailed view of the connection unit of the dispensing unit and the washing attachment unit of the washing unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a detailed view of an alternative connection unit and an alternative cleaning attachment unit. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a detailed view of an alternative connection unit and an alternative cleaning attachment unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the receptacle unit. [Figure 7]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an integrated configuration of a dispensing unit and a washing unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0117] In principle, identical or functionally identical parts in the figures are provided with the same reference numbers.

[0118] FIG. 1 shows the dispensing system 1 with the dispensing unit 2 and the cleaning unit 3 in a separated state, while FIG. 2 shows them in an assembled state for cleaning the dispensing unit 2.

[0119] The dispensing system 1 comprises the typically present elements of a shower, for example in a bathroom, for washing or showering the human body, or for beauty or hair care applications, or for use in medical procedures. Such elements are a cold water source 201 and a hot water source 202 which draw water into a water mixer 20. The water mixer 20 serves to control the water flow and temperature and may comprise a manually operated valve or a manually operated mixing cartridge, typically a ceramic cartridge. A hose 22, or more generally a conduit, is arranged to guide the water from the water mixer 20 to a dispensing head 23. Optionally, further devices 22' may be part of the dispensing unit 2, such as a unit for filtering and / or heating and / or blending further additives, such as soap, colorants, detergents, cosmetics or body treatment products, etc. The cleaning unit 3 serves to clean the dispensing head 23, the hose 22 and, if present, one or more further devices 22'.

[0120] The dispensing head 23 may be a standard dispensing head or may comprise an outer shell 233 holding an inner conduit 234 that guides the water to an outlet cartridge 231 for spraying the water. The dispensing head 23 may be a showerhead as disclosed in the initially mentioned WO 2020 / 070159.

[0121] In addition to commonly known elements, the dispensing unit 2 comprises a connection unit 21, which is connected at the intake side to the outlet of the water mixer 20 and at the outlet side to a hose 22. During normal operation of the dispensing unit 2, the connection unit 21 passes water from the intake side to the outlet side. The water mixer 20 allows the user to control the water flow and temperature. Thus, the only modification to an existing installation can be the addition of the connection unit 21. In an embodiment, the water mixer 20 and the connection unit 21 are a single integrated unit. This integrated unit can be installed in place of a conventional water mixer 20. It can be integrated into a wall or mounted on a wall, or integrated into an apparatus for body or hair treatment. Such an apparatus can then be incorporated into a hairdresser's chair.

[0122] The washing unit 3 comprises a washing fluid delivery unit 32 having a washing fluid conduit 34 for delivering a washing fluid or a component of a washing fluid to the washing attachment unit 31. Typically, the washing fluid delivery unit 32 delivers a component of the washing fluid such as steam, in which case the washing fluid delivery unit 32 is a steam generator. The washing attachment unit 31 and the connection unit 21 are configured to guide the fluid from the washing fluid conduit 34 into the connection unit 21 and into the hose 22 and the dispensing head 23. In an embodiment, the washing attachment unit 31 is configured to add further fluid.

[0123] The connection unit 21 can be configured to switch between delivery of cleaning fluid and water from the water mixer 20 to the hose 22, or to mix cleaning fluid with water from the water mixer 20. To this end, the connection unit 21 comprises a mixing valve 212 or mixing unit 211 powered from the cleaning attachment unit 31.

[0124] In another embodiment, the mixing valve 212 or mixing unit 211 is part of the wash mounting unit 31 and the water from the water mixer 20 is guided to the wash mounting unit 31 via the connection unit 21 when they are coupled to each other.

[0125] The cleaning attachment unit 31 is configured to supply cleaning fluid to the connection unit 21, in an embodiment shown in more detail in Figure 3. The cleaning fluid is supplied into the cleaning attachment unit 31 as steam from the cleaning fluid delivery unit 32, as water, or as a mixture of such steam with water, hot water, air and further components such as cleaning agents and / or foaming agents. Air can be supplied through an intake pump 40 shown in Figures 1 and 2, or via a valve shown in Figure 3.

[0126] In an embodiment, the cleaning mounting unit 31 may add hot water delivered from a boiler 36 via a hot water conduit 37 to the cleaning fluid, or the hot water may provide the entire flow of cleaning fluid.

[0127] In an embodiment, the water supply conduit 35 may be configured to supply water from the cleaning mounting unit 31 to the cleaning fluid delivery unit 32 and / or the boiler 36. In this case, the cleaning mounting unit 31 is configured to be supplied with water from the connection unit 21. If the water supply conduit 35 is not present, the water containers in the cleaning fluid delivery unit 32 and / or the boiler 36 may be filled manually.

[0128] The washing unit 3 comprises a receptacle unit 33 in which the dispensing head 23 can be placed for washing. A presence detector 336 detects whether the dispensing head 23 is present or not.

[0129] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit 33 includes a volume with a coolant storage element 331 surrounding the dispensing head 23. The coolant storage element 331 is an open-porous material and can be filled with cooling water provided by a cooling water conduit 39 from the cleaning mounting unit 31. Cooling the outside of the dispensing head 23 in this way prevents the dispensing head from being damaged by hot cleaning fluid. There can be one or more outlets 333 to remove the cooling fluid. The flow through the outlets can be controlled by active valves, or by valves that are safety valves, or by the height of the valves relative to the volume of the coolant storage element 331.

[0130] In an embodiment, the receptacle unit 33 comprises a heat sink element 332 within its volume for collecting the cleaning fluid exiting the dispensing head 23. The heat sink element 332 is an open-porous material with a relatively high specific heat capacity, such as a metal or ceramic. There may be one or more further outlets 333 for removing cooled cleaning fluid and / or cooling fluid.

[0131] In another embodiment, the heat absorption element 332 and / or the coolant storage element 331 are cooled by alternately supplying cooling water with the (hot) cleaning fluid through the hose 22, without passing through the cooling water conduit 39. During the cooling phase, the cooling water cools, for example, both the heat absorption element 332 and the coolant storage element 331, and the warmed cooling water leaves through the outlet 333.

[0132] In an embodiment, the heat absorption element 332 comprises a filter structure based on a rigid or elastic or soft foam or open pore structure. The structure may be made of a shape memory alloy or a shape memory polymer, so that when the network is exposed to high temperature steam, the structure has smaller pores and therefore is more resistant to fluids flowing through the structure, and when the network is exposed to water, which is cooler than the steam, the structure has larger pores that are less resistant.

[0133] The receptacle unit 33 can be supplied with a cleaning fluid by an additional cleaning fluid conduit 38. Here again the cleaning fluid can be steam, or water, or a mixture of steam with air and / or water, optionally with a cleaning agent and / or a foaming agent. The cleaning fluid can be guided and applied directly to the area around the nozzle outlet of the dispensing head 23.

[0134] The vibration generator 337 is configured to impart vibrations, preferably in the ultrasonic range, to clean the dispensing head 23 disposed within the receptacle unit 33 .

[0135] Where the dispensing head 23 comprises an outer shell 233 and an inner conduit 234, the dispensing head may comprise one or more vibration transmitters 237 for transmitting vibrations from the outer shell 233 to the inner conduit 234. The one or more vibration transmitters 237 are configured to provide an efficient path, particularly a short path, from the vibration generator 337 to a location inside the inner conduit 234 where sediment is likely to accumulate. The vibration transmitter 237 may be a bridge, bar or link of material connecting the outer shell 233 and the inner conduit 234.

[0136] The controller 100 of the cleaning unit 3 is configured to read the values ​​of sensors such as temperature, flow rate and presence detector 336, control actuators such as valves and mixers to perform cleaning cycles, and communicate with the connection unit 21. The cleaning unit 3 is configured to supply cleaning fluid, especially including steam (hot), to the dispensing head 23 only when the dispensing head 23 is located in the receptacle unit 33.

[0137] In an embodiment, the washing unit 3 is configured to perform a backwash cycle in which washing fluid supplied by the additional washing fluid conduit 38 flows through the dispensing head 23 and the hose 22 into the washing attachment unit 31 and out of the washing attachment unit 31 through a further outlet conduit (not shown). The valve controlling the flow of water from the water mixer 20 to the connection unit 21 is closed and the additional valve is configured to direct the backflow out of the washing attachment unit 31 through the further outlet conduit.

[0138] The washing unit 3 can be transported together to several use locations to wash different dispensing units 2. The elements shown in FIG. 1 that are part of the washing unit 3, if they are present, can be arranged in a common housing, shown in dashed lines. The housing typically forms a compact unit that can be transported or traveled to the use location. The washing attachment unit 31 can be removable from the housing and, if present, remains connected to the other elements by respective conduits, so that the washing attachment unit 31 can be moved and connected to the connection unit 21. The receptacle unit 33 can be integrated in the housing, but can be accessible from the outside so that the dispensing head 23 can be placed therein. In other embodiments, the receptacle unit 33 is outside the housing. In this case, the receptacle unit 33 can be connected to the housing through one or more of an additional washing fluid conduit 38, a cooling water conduit 39 and an outlet 333.

[0139] FIG. 3 shows details of the connection unit 21 of the dispensing unit and the washing attachment unit 31 of the washing unit. They are shown in a position where they can be engaged by moving them horizontally relative to each other. The connection unit 21 comprises a mixing unit 211, in this case a mixing cartridge with one degree of freedom, for controlling the relative amount of water W from the water mixer 20 and the washing mixture CM delivered by the washing attachment unit 31. This is done by the washing mixture conduit of the washing attachment unit 31 being plugged into the washing mixture conduit of the connection unit 21 (or vice versa) when the two units are engaged. The output of the mixing unit 211 is the washing fluid CF delivered to the conduit of the hose 22. The relative amount is controlled by the rotation of the mixing unit 211 brought about by a gear meshing with a gear of the washing attachment unit 31 driven by the first drive motor 311a. This illustrates the principle of force transmission, in other embodiments such a removable coupling of force transmission to the connection unit 21 is implemented by other mechanical interfaces.

[0140] In an embodiment not shown, the mixing unit 211 has a second degree of freedom that allows it to control the total amount of water and cleaning mixture. Correspondingly, a second drive motor 311b is disposed in the cleaning attachment unit 31 and is removably coupled to the connection unit 21 for driving the radial movement of the cartridge.

[0141] 4 shows mixing valves instead of the mixing unit 211. Their operation is controlled electrically or mechanically by the cleaning attachment unit 31 via a corresponding interface.

[0142] Referring again to Fig. 3, the connection unit 21 comprises an RFID tag 230 configured to be read by an RFID detector 330 of the washing attachment unit 31. This allows the connection unit 21 to be identified and therefore data to be transmitted and stored in relation to the connection unit 21. Such data may be cleaning data relating to the cleaning operations performed by the washing unit 3, or usage data collected by the dispensing unit 2 during normal operation and transmitted from the connection unit 21 to the washing attachment unit 31. For the collection of such data, the connection unit 21 and the washing attachment unit 31 comprise alternative or further means for wireless or optical communication (not shown). The communication may be bidirectional, the connection unit 21 being configured to receive data from the washing attachment unit 31, such as operating parameters used in normal operation of the dispensing unit 2. Such data may include cleaning data generated by the washing unit 3 and stored in the dispensing unit 2. Such data may include at least the date when the dispensing unit 2 was last cleaned.

[0143] In the cleaning attachment unit 31, the cleaning mixture CM is produced by mixing a cleaning premix CPM with a flow of steam S by means of a venturi injector 312. The steam supply is controlled by a safety shut-off valve 319. The cleaning premix CPM is produced in a mixing chamber 313, which is separated from the venturi injector 312 by a non-return valve 315. The mixing chamber 313 is supplied with cleaning water CW, which is supplied via a water control valve 316, and with air A, which is supplied via an intake valve 318 or an intake pump 40. The intake valve 318 can be an actively controlled valve or a passive throttle valve. In the latter case, the air A is sucked in by the pressure drop occurring in the venturi injector 312. Instead of the water control valve 316, there can be a water pump 317, in particular a positive displacement pump. The cleaning water CW can be a mixture of water W produced in the additive mixer 314 and a cleaning agent CA. Depending on the pressure conditions under which the apparatus operates, it may be the case that the pressure drop across the venturi injector 312 is not sufficient to aspirate the cleaning pre-mixture CPM. In this case, a further pump or cleaning pre-mix pump 320 (see FIG. 4), in particular a volumetric pump such as a peristaltic pump, may be provided to deliver the cleaning pre-mixture to the venturi injector 312.

[0144] In an embodiment, the wash pre-mix pump 320 is located in the wash fluid delivery unit 32 instead of the wash attachment unit 31. In this case, the check valve 315 may be located in the wash attachment unit 31 instead of the wash pre-mix pump 320 shown in Figure 4. Thus, a wash pre-mix, typically including air A, wash agent CA and water W, is generated in the wash fluid delivery unit 32 from where it is delivered by the wash pre-mix pump 320 through the conduit 34 to the wash attachment unit 31.

[0145] In an embodiment, after the venturi injector 312 there is an additional pump for pumping the cleaning mixture CM.

[0146] 3 shows the control lines for several different controlled valves, the power supply for the first drive motor 311a, and the communication lines for the RFID detector 330. All of these are typically connected to the controller 100.

[0147] 4 shows further embodiment details of the connection unit 21 and the wash attachment unit 31. The wash attachment unit 31 shows only the venturi injector 312 and the wash premix pump 320. However, in addition to or instead of the premix pump 320, the elements of the wash attachment unit 31 shown in FIG.

[0148] The connection unit 21 comprises mixing valves 212, a first mixing valve 212a for the wash mixture CM and a second mixing valve 212b for water W. The mixing valves 212 each comprise an electric valve driver allowing proportional control of the flow through the respective valve. The valve drivers are powered and controlled by electrical wires that are connected through an electrical connector 221 of the connection unit 21 to an electrical connector 321 of the washing attachment unit 31. In other embodiments not shown, the valve drivers are located within the washing attachment unit 31 and the mixing valve 212 is driven through a removable mechanical drive connection between the washing attachment unit 31 and the connection unit 21.

[0149] In both the electrically and mechanically actuated versions of the mixing valves 212, each preferably includes a biasing mechanism, such as a spring, configured to move the first mixing valve 212a (for the wash mixture CM) to a closed position and the second mixing valve 212b (for water W) to an open position when the connection unit 21 is detached from the wash attachment unit 31 or when the wash attachment unit 31 is not powered.

[0150] A cleaning mixture CM, typically steam based, is injected into the water conduit via one or more injection openings 220. The resulting cleaning fluid CF is fed to a hose 22 or to a further device 22', if present.

[0151] In an embodiment, the first mixing valve 212a is not an externally controlled valve, i.e., an electrically or mechanically controlled valve. Rather, the first mixing valve is replaced by a check valve. In this case, the delivery of the wash mixture CM to the flow of water W is controlled by an alternative first mixing valve located in the wash attachment unit 31 or the wash fluid delivery unit 32. This simplifies the construction and control of the connection unit 21.

[0152] 5 shows a variant of the connection unit 21, in which the injection opening is realized in the form of an injection conduit 223 extending into the water conduit. In this way, the steam-based cleaning mixture can be injected into the center of the water flow, providing a perfect mixture of steam and water.

[0153] The two mixing valves 212 can have different flow characteristics since one controls the flow of water and the other controls the flow of steam depending on the mode of operation.

[0154] The connection unit 21 and the cleaning attachment unit 31 are designed to be coupled and separated without the need for tools. Elements related to the coupling, especially the pluggable cleaning mixture (CM) conduits, the RFID tag 230 and the RFID detector 330 or other near field communication means, as well as electrical or mechanical interfaces for driving the mixing unit 211 or the mixing valve 212, are considered to be interface elements.

[0155] In embodiments where the elements of the connection unit 21 and the cleaning attachment unit 31 are designed to be in a permanently connected configuration, there are no interface elements present.

[0156] FIG. 6 shows the receptacle unit 33 in detail. The outline of the outlet cartridge 231 of the dispensing head 23 is shown in dashed lines. It shows two nozzles 232 for generating impinging jets of water for generating a spray in normal use of the dispensing head 23 for showering or washing. The areas around the outlets of the nozzles 232 are prone to limescale accumulations that may prevent optimal operation of the nozzles. The receptacle unit 33 may be equipped with elements for cleaning these areas, in an inward facing position of such outlet cartridge 231. Such elements are not shown in detail but may be used to clean the nozzles. a guide element 334 for guiding the spray from the nozzle 232 to clean the area around the nozzle outlet; a cleaning element 335, such as a brush or a nozzle, spraying a cleaning fluid supplied by an additional cleaning fluid conduit 38; It may be a vibration generator 337.

[0157] Gasket 338 is positioned to prevent cleaning fluid from dispense head 23 or additional cleaning fluid conduit 38 from reaching and damaging the exterior surface of dispense head 23.

[0158] In a minimum configuration, the cleaning attachment unit 31 is supplied only with cleaning fluid, typically steam, from the cleaning fluid delivery unit 32. The receptacle unit 33 is supplied with cooling water through the hose 22 and dispensing head 23 alternating with the hot cleaning fluid.

[0159] In the integrated configuration, the dispensing unit 2 and the washing unit 3 are an integrated unit of the dispensing system 1. That is, the connection unit 21 and the washing attachment unit 31 are not separate, but their functions are performed by a single common unit. This unit can also be integrated with the water mixer 20. No interface elements are required to couple the connection unit 21 to the washing attachment unit 31. The elements of the washing attachment unit 31 presented so far, except for the interface elements, are considered to constitute the washing mixture preparation unit 31a. FIG. 7 shows a possible structure of such an integrated configuration. The elements surrounded by dashed lines, if they are present, are arranged in a common housing, typically a compact housing. The receptacle unit 33 can be integrated in the housing, but can be accessible from the outside so that the dispensing head 23 can be placed therein. In other embodiments, the receptacle unit 33 is outside the housing. In this case, the receptacle unit 33 can be connected to the housing through one or more of an additional washing fluid conduit 38, a cooling water conduit 39 and an outlet 333. In other embodiments, there is no receptacle unit 33 at all. The dispensing system 1 may comprise or be attached to a sink 240 having an outlet.

[0160] This configuration can be used, for example, in professional hairdressing applications, where the further device 22' can be configured to mix hair care agents, colorants or cosmetics. Another application is in dental care packages where liquids are delivered for application to a patient and where conduits and hoses are prone to fouling.

[0161] Such an integrated configuration is particularly suitable for controlling the temperature of the liquid being dispensed by mixing steam. In this way, it is possible to reliably control the temperature to a set point temperature with a high bandwidth. This simplifies the use of the dispensing system 1. For example, in a hairdressing application, the controller 100 can control the temperature of water dispensed for hair treatment or rinsing without the user having to manually adjust the temperature.

[0162] Such an integrated configuration is particularly suited for using the dispensing unit 2 to clean other objects that are part of or used with the dispensing system. Such objects can be sinks 240 and accessory devices such as combs, brushes, etc. Cleaning can include applying steam to sterilize the object. In an operational mode in which such cleaning of other objects occurs, the dispensing system 1 is configured to generate a warning signal.

[0163] In a setting for human treatment, such as a hairdressing or dental care package, the dispensing system 1 can be configured to detect the presence of a client in a treatment location, such as a seat associated with the dispensing system 1, and to prohibit operation in cleaning mode where harmful temperatures or substances are present. This can be done, for example, using a presence detection unit 101 installed in the seat. Such units are known from automotive applications for detecting the presence of a passenger.

[0164] Thanks to the warning signal and / or client presence detection, the dispensing unit 2, in particular the dispensing head 23, can be safely used on the one hand for applying fluids to human clients and on the other hand for cleaning the dispensing system 1 and other objects. In an embodiment, a further safety feature can ensure that the dispensing head 23 is only used if an operator is identified as trained to use the system in such a cleaning mode. For example, this can be done by means of an RFID tag or by entering a code.

[0165] In the method for operating the dispensing system 1, maintenance operations are carried out to maintain the dispensing unit 2, in particular the hose 22, the dispensing head 23 and, if present, further devices 22'. The maintenance operations can be one or more of the following:

[0166] Sterilising the dispensing unit 2. This may involve providing steam to the dispensing unit 2.

[0167] Decalcifying the dispensing unit 2. This may involve supplying a decalcifying agent to the dispensing unit 2 and then rinsing it with water. This may involve supplying steam and cold water alternately to the dispensing unit 2.

[0168] Preventive treatment of the dispensing unit 2. This may include providing the dispensing unit 2 with a treatment agent to prevent or reduce future build-up of deposits in the dispensing unit 2 during a final cycle of maintenance operations. The treatment agent may be a fluid that inhibits lime build-up and / or fouling, in particular by biofilms. Lime forms a substrate for bacterial growth, so inhibiting lime growth indirectly inhibits bacterial growth. The treatment agent may be selected to remain attached to the internal surfaces of the dispensing unit 2. Such a fluid may include agents that mechanically or chemically inhibit biofilm growth. Such a fluid may itself include beneficial microorganisms that adhere to the internal surfaces and inhibit the growth of undesirable microorganisms. In an embodiment, the fluid is an essential oil.

[0169] These maintenance operations can be performed repeatedly and alternately. Several sterilization and demineralization operations can be performed alternately, followed by a final treatment operation. A maintenance program prescribing such a sequence of operations can be adapted depending on the configuration of the dispensing unit 2 to be cleaned and the environment in which the dispensing unit 2 is used. The environment can be defined by quality requirements according to a dispensing unit 2 found in a hotel, kitchen, home, etc. and / or by environmental factors such as the calcium level of the water, the ambient temperature, etc.

[0170] The maintenance operations may be controlled by a controller 100 which controls the operation of the various valves and motors of the dispensing system 1, in particular the connection unit 21 and the cleaning attachment unit 31.

[0171] The method of performing a maintenance operation is applicable to embodiments in which the dispensing unit 2 and the washing unit 3 are separate and connected before performing the method, and also to embodiments in which the dispensing unit 2 and the washing unit 3 are an integrated unit of the dispensing system 1. In this case, elements that have been shown so far to be part of separate units, such as the connection unit 21 and the washing attachment unit 31, may be in a common integrated unit.

[0172] The controller 100 can control which type of maintenance action to perform depending on the log of maintenance actions and the current time or date. For example, sterilization can be performed daily, while demineralization and / or preventative treatments can be performed at larger intervals, for example weekly, or once every 10 or 20 times the cleaning unit 3 is applied.

[0173] In the method of producing a mixture of liquid, particularly water, and additive, the additive is provided as a component of the cleaning mixture CM. The cleaning mixture CM thus comprises a steam stream, the additive being carried along with the steam, the additive being in a gaseous state. When the cleaning mixture is condensed before or after being injected into the water stream, the condensed mixture of steam and (vaporized) additive can produce microscopic particles or droplets of the additive encapsulated in the liquid. Due to the large reduction in volume, e.g. 1000 times, from the gaseous state to the liquid state, the droplets of the additive are very small. Usually, the buoyancy forces caused by the difference in specific gravity cause the additive to separate from the water. However, at such a very small droplet size, the buoyancy forces acting on the droplets are sufficiently counteracted by the surface tension of the water to inhibit the droplets from separating from the water. Thus, the fine droplets remain in the steam-mixed water stream and form an emulsion. The emulsion is therefore sufficiently stable that no emulsifier is required. This is especially true when the emulsion is used immediately after it is created at the point of use, as opposed to storing the emulsion for later use. The emulsions are applied to surfaces, for example for cosmetic or medical or generally other purposes.

[0174] Suitable additives are, for example, essential oils, also known as volatile oils, ethereal oils or aetherolea. Such oils contain volatile components, in particular components extracted by steam extraction.

[0175] In this way it is possible to very finely disperse the additives in the water, which allows high concentrations of additives to be used. This technique can be used for other applications where the mixture, referred to here as Cleaning Mixture CM for its consistency, is used for purposes other than cleaning.

[0176] While the present invention has been described in the present embodiment, it is to be clearly understood that the invention is not limited thereto and may be variously embodied and practiced in other ways within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dispensing system (1) for dispensing a fluid, which is water or an aqueous mixture, comprising a dispensing unit (2) and a washing unit (3), said dispensing unit (2) comprising: a connection unit (21) for connecting the dispensing unit (2) to a source of fluid; a dispensing head (23) for dispensing said fluid; a conduit, in particular a flexible hose (22), for guiding the fluid from the connection unit (21) to the dispensing head (23); a mixing unit (211) or mixing valve (212a, 212b) for selecting between a water flow from a water source or a flow of cleaning mixture and / or for mixing said water flow with said flow of cleaning mixture, The washing unit (3) a washing attachment unit (31) for attaching said washing unit (3) to said dispensing unit (2), in particular to said connection unit (21); a washing fluid delivery unit (32) configured to deliver washing fluid to the dispensing unit (2) via the washing attachment unit (31); a receptacle unit (33) configured to accommodate the dispensing head (23) and to receive fluid from the dispensing head (23); The washing unit (3) means for supplying said cleaning fluid, said cleaning fluid comprising steam or water or air or a mixture of two or more of steam, air, water and a cleaning agent; 1. A dispensing system (1), characterized in that the cleaning unit (3) comprises a second mixer for mixing a cleaning premix with a steam flow to provide the cleaning mixture, thereby generating the cleaning mixture.

2. A dispensing system (1) for dispensing a fluid, which is water or an aqueous mixture, comprising a dispensing unit (2) and a washing unit (3), said dispensing unit (2) comprising: a connection unit (21) for connecting the dispensing unit (2) to a source of fluid; a dispensing head (23) for dispensing said fluid; a conduit, in particular a flexible hose (22), for guiding the fluid from the connection unit (21) to the dispensing head (23); a mixing unit (211) or mixing valve (212a, 212b) for selecting between a water flow from a water source or a flow of cleaning mixture and / or for mixing said water flow with said flow of cleaning mixture, The washing unit (3) a cleaning mixture preparation unit (31a) for supplying a cleaning mixture (CM) to said connection unit (21); a washing fluid delivery unit (32) configured to deliver a washing fluid to the dispensing unit (2) via the washing mixture preparation unit (31 a); Optionally, a receptacle unit (33) configured to accommodate said dispensing head (23) and receive fluid from said dispensing head (23), The washing unit (3) means for supplying said cleaning fluid, said cleaning fluid comprising steam or water or air or a mixture of two or more of steam, air, water and a cleaning agent; 1. A dispensing system (1), characterized in that the cleaning unit (3) comprises a second mixer for mixing a cleaning premix with a steam flow to provide the cleaning mixture, thereby generating the cleaning mixture.

3. The dispensing system (1) of claim 1, wherein the mixing unit (211) or the mixing valve (212a, 212b) is part of the connection unit (21) or the mixing unit (211) or the mixing valve (212a, 212b) is part of the washing attachment unit (31), and water from a water mixer (20) is guided from the connection unit (21) to the washing attachment unit (31).

4. The dispensing system (1) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second mixer is a venturi injector (312).

5. The dispensing system (1) according to claim 1, 2 or 4, wherein the washing unit (3) comprises a third mixer, in particular a mixing chamber (313), for mixing air into the flow of washing water to provide the washing premix, thereby generating the washing premix.

6. The dispensing system (1) according to claim 5, wherein the washing unit (3) comprises a fourth mixer, in particular an additive mixer (314), for mixing a cleaning agent into the water flow and thereby generating the washing water to supply the washing water.

7. a control valve (316) or a water pump (317) configured to supply the wash water to the mixing chamber (313); a water pump (317) configured to supply the wash water to the mixing chamber (313), the water pump being a positive displacement pump, such as a peristaltic pump; a controlled or static valve (318) configured to supply air, in particular ambient air, to said mixing chamber (313); The dispensing system (1) according to claim 5 or 6, comprising one or more of the following:

8. a safety shut-off valve (319) disposed in the steam supply conduit; and / or The dispensing system (1) according to claim 5, wherein a check valve (315) is arranged in the flow of the washing premix to the second mixer or venturi injector (312), in particular after the third mixer or mixing chamber (313).

9. said cleaning fluid through said conduit or hose (22) and through said dispensing head (23); vapor, Mixtures of steam, air and water, a mixture comprising a cleaning agent, in particular said cleaning agent being provided as part of a mixture of said cleaning agent with water and optionally air, in particular said mixture being mixed with a steam stream; Pulse method, sequences of said vapours and mixtures, in particular cyclically repeated sequences; A sequence of fluids at multiple different temperatures, especially a cyclically repeated sequence; a mixture including oil in combination with a blowing agent such as bicarbonate or steam; The dispensing system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, configured to deliver in one or more forms of a mixture comprising a treatment agent that remains adhered on an inner surface of the dispensing unit (2), in particular to prevent accumulation of deposits on the surface of the dispensing unit (2).

10. configured to deliver said cleaning fluid in the form of steam with periodic pulses of water, optionally further fluid components, being added and driven through said dispensing unit (2) by the pressure of said steam, The dosing system (1) according to claim 9, in particular configured for adding as further component a drug having a boiling point lower than that of water.

11. The dispensing system (1) of claim 1, wherein the connection unit (21) automatically enables only the fluid from the fluid source to be supplied to the dispensing head (23) when not connected to the cleaning attachment unit (31) or when not powered by the cleaning attachment unit (31).

12. configured to dispense water through the dispensing head (23) in a water temperature control mode and control the temperature of the water by adjusting the amount of steam added to the water; A dispensing system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the water after the steam has been admixed therewith, and configured to vary the amount of steam added so that the temperature of the water reaches a set point temperature.

13. a washing attachment unit (31) for attaching said washing unit (3) to said dispensing unit (2), in particular to said connection unit (21); a washing fluid delivery unit (32) configured to deliver washing fluid to the dispensing unit (2) via the washing attachment unit (31); a receptacle unit (33) configured to accommodate the dispensing head (23) and to receive fluid from the dispensing head (23); The washing unit (3) means for supplying said cleaning fluid, said cleaning fluid comprising steam or water or air or a mixture of two or more of steam, air, water and a cleaning agent; characterised in that the scrubbing unit (3) comprises a second mixer for mixing a scrubbing premix with a steam flow to provide the scrubbing mixture, thereby producing the scrubbing mixture, A cleaning unit (3) for use in a dispensing system (1) according to claim 1 or any one of claims 3 to 12 depending on claim 1, wherein the cleaning attachment unit (31) is configured to be coupled and detached to the connection unit (21) manually without the use of tools.

14. an inlet for a flow of a fluid, in particular water (W), an inlet for a flow of a cleaning mixture (CM) and an outlet for a mixture of said fluid and cleaning mixture; a mixing unit (211) or at least two mixing valves (212a, 212b) for controlling the mixing of the flow of the cleaning mixture (CM) into the flow of the fluid (W); an electrical or mechanical interface for driving the mixing unit (211) or the mixing valves (212a, 212b); the connection unit (21) is configured for manual coupling and detachment to the cleaning attachment unit (31) of the cleaning unit (3) without the use of tools; In particular, the connection unit (21) is configured to automatically enable only water from the water supply source to be supplied to the dispensing head (23) when it is not connected to or powered by the washing attachment unit (31), A connection unit (21) for use in a dispensing system (1) according to claim 1 or any one of claims 3 to 12 dependent on claim 1, characterized in that the connection unit (21) is provided with a biasing element which, when no power is supplied to the connection unit (21), places the mixing unit (211) or the mixing valve (212a, 212b) in a state in which the flow of the cleaning mixture (CM) to the outlet is blocked and the flow of the fluid (W) to the outlet is free.

15. A method for producing a mixture of a liquid and an additive, in particular in a dosing system (1), according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: To incorporate additives into liquids, especially water streams, creating a vapor mixture comprising a vaporized fluid and the vaporized additive; injecting the vaporized mixture into the liquid stream; condensing the vaporized mixture in a liquid, thereby producing a mixture of the liquid and the additive; In particular, the method is characterized in that it includes the step of dispensing the mixture of the liquid and the additive to a point of application.

Images