CN1354695A - Spray device with flat fan nozzle - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a portable device for spraying a liquid at low pressure, said device comprising a spray arm( 220 )comprising at least one flat fan spray nozzle( 230 ). Preferably, the liquid is a cleaning composition for treatment of carpets and other large fabric coverings, more preferably, a composition comprising surfactants. Also preferably, the portable device is electrically driven, and/or the spray arm is extendible and/or detachable from the main unit of the device.

Description

Sprinklers with flat fan nozzles

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a portable spraying device for dispersing products, preferably cleaning products including surfactants.

Background of the invention

Portable trigger spray devices are known for household cleaning purposes or for industrial cleaning purposes, eg for cleaning hard surfaces such as windows, baths and ovens, and for spot cleaning of floor coverings such as carpets. Most trigger sprinkler devices that are commercially available are manually actuated, that is, they include a trigger mechanism that is actuated by the user's hand. Most commonly, this manual actuation generates liquid pressure in a chamber by means of a positive displacement pump which in turn drives the liquid to be ejected from the chamber, often through a dispensing nozzle. Most commonly a cone-shaped spray pattern is used.

In order to achieve cleaning work in rooms, for example for cleaning large flat floor coverings such as carpets and the like, the spraying device must distribute the liquid at atmospheric pressure or at low pressure, that is to say, the pressure at the outlet of the nozzle below 3 bar.

Also, when dealing with a large area of room covering such as the flat surface of a carpet, it is often very difficult to reach all the corners of the carpet with a cone spray. In fact, the cone spray cannot reach the corners, in order to reach the corners the user has to spray the product partly on the walls, and also it is difficult to reach the surfaces under the furniture. Patent document DE 19651477 (D1) is a German patent application belonging to Thomas, Metall und Elektrowerke. This patent document discloses a portable vacuum cleaner with a spray spreader for spraying the cleaning agent on a surface in a flat fan pattern.

Although this device enables the user to spray liquid in a flat fan-shaped jet at low pressure for indoor use purposes, the system of document D1 still suffers from certain disadvantages. First of all, it is still quite difficult to reach difficult places in the room such as under furniture with the spraying device of document D1, because the spraying nozzle is placed on the main unit of the spraying device, which requires the user to maneuver the entire spraying device to reach these places , which is obviously not desirable. Second, cleaning agents used to treat large surfaces may contain components, such as surfactants, that may be irritating to the mucous membranes of the body. Therefore, it is important to spray the sprayed particles as far as possible from the user.

Therefore, a need exists for a portable spraying device that is easily portable for indoor work and that is equipped with means for reaching often hard-to-reach surfaces such as under furniture without the need to bend over . There is also a need for a spraying device whose nozzles produce a spray pattern that allows the user to reach difficult spots such as room corners and the like, such as a spraying device that sprays in a flat fan shape.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a portable spraying device for spraying liquids at low pressure, wherein the spraying pattern is a flat fan, and which is provided with a means for easy access to intractable areas, and a A device for spraying cleaning agents sufficiently far from the user's body.

Contents of the invention

The invention relates to a portable device for spraying liquids at low pressure, said device comprising a spray arm, characterized in that the spray arm comprises at least one flat fan-shaped spray nozzle. The liquid is preferably a cleaning composition for treating carpets and other large fibrous coverings, preferably the composition includes a surfactant. It is also desirable that the portable device is electrically driven and/or that the spray arm is retractable and/or that the spray arm is detachable from the main unit of the device.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 shows the schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a spray arm for spraying liquid with a line coiled on a telescoping rod, said spray arm being in an extended configuration;

Figure 3 shows a spray arm for spraying liquid with a line coiled on a telescoping rod, said spray arm being in a retracted configuration;

Figures 4A-B-C show a liquid drip prevention system with an umbrella valve;

Figures 5A-B show the anti-drip system with a cone and a spring, respectively in closed and open states;

Figures 6a, b, c and 7 show the vent and liquid delivery fitting fitted to the storage device; and

Figure 8 shows a schematic view of a flat sector with an angle α in the plane of the sector and an angle β in a plane perpendicular to the sector.

specific implementation plan

The present invention is directed to packaged products. The packaged product is a combination of a product such as a liquid component in a storage device and a portable device for dispensing the product. The portable device preferably comprises a housing, a spreading device such as a spray arm, and means for delivering product from storage means to the spray arm.

It is a preferred feature of the packaged product of the present invention that the portable unit includes a manual or electrically driven pump. Preferably, said portable means includes an electrically driven pump for pumping product from the storage means through the spray arm and out of an opening (or more) for spraying product in the spray arm. openings) to reach the surface to be treated. Thus, the portable device connected to the storage device constitutes an electric spraying device. The openings through which the product is sprayed are preferably nozzles selected so that the product to be sprayed is in the form of a continuous stream or film, or in the form of a discontinuous stream or film of fine particles, or in the form of a mist, or in the form of foam. A spray pattern in the form of fine particles is most desirable as this is the most effective way to evenly cover a large surface area with a small volume of product. Typically, the output of the product is from about 20 ml/min to about 400 ml/min, preferably from about 150 ml/min to about 250 ml/min, the product is typically suitable for spraying room cleaning products or washing products , or spray perfume. In a preferred embodiment, the packaged product is a cleaning solution suitable for cleaning surfaces such as textiles, carpets, floors and ceilings.

It is preferred that the spray arm has one nozzle, but may have multiple nozzles along its length. The spray arm makes it easier to control where the cleaning product is sprayed. For example, when cleaning carpets, the spray arm makes it relatively easy to avoid spraying product on furniture and walls, and also makes it possible to access otherwise hard-to-reach corners. Also, the ergonomically designed spray arm eliminates the need for the user to bend over when spraying. portable device

The portable unit includes means for delivering product from the storage means through the spray arm to a product distribution opening from which the product is distributed. The device for conveying the product is connected to the storage device and to the spraying arm, for example by a line, which can be, for example, a deformable plastic tube. The means and lines, if any, for delivering product from the storage means to the spray arms are preferably contained within the enclosure.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the means for conveying the product from the storage means through the spray arm to the product distribution opening comprises an electrically driven pump. The electrically driven pump can be, for example, a gear pump, a turbo pump, a plunger pump, a screw pump, a peristaltic pump, a membrane pump, or any other micropump. In a preferred embodiment, the pump is a gear pump with a typical rotational speed of between 6000 and 12000 rpm.

Preferably the pump is designed such that the delivery pressure at the outlet of the nozzle is low pressure, defined here as a pressure lower than 3 bar.

Electrically driven pumps must be driven, for example, by means of electric motors. The motor typically produces 1 and 20 mN. Torque between m. Furthermore, the motor must be provided with a power supply. This power source can be alternating current (optionally via a transformer), or a disposable battery, or a rechargeable battery. Most preferably one or more AA rechargeable batteries or disposable batteries are contained within the package. The voltage output of the battery is typically between 1.5 and 12 volts, with a preferred voltage output being between 3 and 6 volts.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the pump is designed to be reversible so that it can pump liquid from a storage device and pump liquid from a surface, or only from the line of a portable device, The liquid is pumped back into the same storage device, or preferably into another storage device. Typically, only a small portion of the liquid can be sucked back from the surface, and there is no attempt to replace the use of a vacuum cleaner with a reversible pump. The pump can be reversed in several ways. In one example, the pump and motor are connected to a timer and a circuit so that after a certain amount of time (say 15 seconds) the motor stops turning, and then automatically actuates it again and reverses its direction of rotation . As a result, product remaining in the lines and extensions of the portable device is pumped back into the storage device. As a result, when replacing one product with another, the product can be easily changed without mixing the new product with the old product. For example, a user may use the portable device to spray a first component, then wait for the pump to draw said first component back out of the line, then replace the storage device or change its contents to spray a second component , without mixing the two components in the pipeline. handle device

The device of the present invention is a portable device, which is its essential feature. Indeed, when used in a room, the device must be carried in such a way that it is easy for the user to manipulate the spray arm with two hands. Portable is defined as opposed to a wheeled or non-wheeled device that is mounted on a chassis or whose weight does not allow the user to carry it during use. The packaged product according to the invention preferably includes a hand holding device, preferably the device is integral with the housing of the portable device. The hand holding device can be any form of handle that allows the user to grab the packaged product and carry it to where it is to be sprayed. The handle can be part of the storage device, or part of the housing of the portable device. When it comes time to clean the carpet, the packaged product can be carried around the room. The handle can simply be a protrusion or recess that the user can grasp, or it can be a more complex design for ergonomic reasons.

In another embodiment of the invention, the housing of the carrying device includes a device which allows the user to carry it hands-free. In a first example, the housing includes a clip that allows the user to hang the housing on a belt. In another example, the housing comprises at least one shoulder strap enabling said housing to be carried on the shoulder/back. Other such devices may also be used, allowing the user to use both hands for other tasks. storage device

The portable device comprises at least one storage device which may have any type of capacity to contain the product in liquid form, where liquid means including when the product comprises a solid and a means for gradually dissolving said solid Examples of solvents. Liquids including small particles in suspension are also included. Said storage means is preferably arranged in the housing of the portable device and may be made of any suitable material, such as metal, alloy, glass, but is preferably made of plastic. It comprises at least one chamber comprising at least one component. Alternatively, the storage device is a standard bottle to which the device is attached by threading, inserting, bayonet fitting, or any other suitable means.

The at least one storage means may be secured within the housing of the portable device, and preferably the storage means includes an opening, more preferably a reclosable opening. In addition, the at least one storage means can be removed from the housing of the portable device so that it can be replaced when it is used up, or it can be refilled, for example with tap water.

In a first embodiment, the portable device includes a storage device having a compartment comprising one or more components, preferably one component.

In a second embodiment, the portable device includes a storage device having at least two chambers, each chamber comprising a different component, such as an immiscible component, or two chemically reactive components, The two components will react once mixed. Such a storage device is fabricated, for example, by an extrusion blow molding process.

In a third embodiment, the portable device includes at least two separate storage devices. These storage means can have different shapes, for example they can be designed as complementary shapes. Additionally, different storage devices can be inserted into the portable device at different locations. The storage means may comprise one or more chambers comprising the same product, but preferably different products.

In a fourth embodiment, the portable device includes at least one portion for connection to a storage device comprising a liquid such as a solvent or water, and at least one additional portion for connection to a concentrated composition Connected to a small cartridge reservoir for dispensing, such concentrated components are in the form of liquids, gels, or granules, for example. Upon use of the portable device by the user, the components contained in the cartridge will dissolve in solvent or water and the resulting active liquid component will be dispersed through the spray nozzle. Alternatively, the cartridge is directly connected to a portion of the storage device. The cartridge can be screwed, for example, with threads into a suitable opening in the housing or storage device. It includes a sealing portion so that when fully tightened, the appropriate opening is hermetically closed.

In all of the above embodiments, when the portable device includes more than one storage device, the proportion of product that is pumped may vary from one storage device to another. For example, by choosing a different pipe diameter for one storage device than the other, or by adding a flow control device to the pipe between one storage device and the pump.

In another embodiment, the invention is a kit comprising a portable device and at least one storage device containing a product. Preferably, the kit includes a portable unit and a plurality of removable storage units, each storage unit containing a different product. Different products can be products used to treat different parts, such as carpets, kitchen surfaces, bathroom surfaces, automobiles, or other occasions. spray arm

It is an essential feature of the portable device of the invention to be attached, preferably removably, to a spray arm or pole. The spray arm may have a predetermined length. However, such spray arms can be difficult to store, and the spray arms are preferably extendable/retractable, either by means of telescopic telescopic means or by means of foldable means. The telescoping means can be a liquid-tight telescopic mechanism, or there can be a tube extending inside. A preferred embodiment will be described in detail below.

The extendable spraying arm 220 comprises a handle 231 and a spreading pipe 233 to which the telescopically extendable rod 232 of the spraying arm is connected and the spreading pipe is movably mounted on said spraying arm 220 . It is another essential feature of the present invention that the spray arm 220 also includes a flat fan nozzle 230 . defining a flat fan as a spray roughly shaped like a fan, wherein the spray angle α in the plane of the fan is in the range of 30° to 120° and the spray angle β in the plane perpendicular to the flat fan is less than 20°, Preferably less than 15 degrees, as shown in FIG. 8 . Preferably the nozzles are designed such that the flow rate is less than 500 ml/min. Also, the nozzle and pump means are designed such that the pressure at the outlet of the nozzle is less than 3 bar, this pressure is often referred to as "atmospheric pressure" or "low pressure".

Flat fan spray nozzles can be realized with any type of construction. Examples of flat fan-shaped spray nozzles are known, for example in European patent EP.0.121035 B1 belonging to Bowles fluidics Co. an oscillating nozzle for producing a flat fan-shaped spray pattern is disclosed. Or a flat jet nozzle for atomizing liquids is disclosed in US Pat. No. 5.133.502 belonging to Lechler GmbH.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the flat sector comprises a chamber having a liquid inlet and comprising a liquid outlet substantially in the shape of a slit.

It has been found that fan spraying surprisingly improves the spread of the components compared to other spray shapes typically used, such as cones, especially when considering the spraying conditions of components for cleaning. so it is. In fact, when a user wants to treat a large surface such as a carpet with a device whose nozzle sprays in a cone, some parts of the surface are sprayed with the composition two or more times (ie overlapping). For different reasons (as will be discussed later, this is clearly undesirable, especially for the treatment of carpets). More specifically, spraying of the cleaning components with nozzles that produce a flat, fan-shaped spray produces a uniform carpet appearance after treatment, (i.e., level of soiling, pile density, color brightness, etc.), without excessive wetting, This is because the user covers the square part of the carpet instead of covering the round part with overlapping, there is no damage to the upholstery, using traditional spray patterns can cause water to accumulate in the carpet, and excess water can damage Carpet underlayment, no resoiling as too thick product will result in higher residue and thus greater potential for resoiling, no damage to carpet finish due to no excessive wetting , without excess water, which is known to remove carpet surface gloss, and finally, without the accumulation of residues that typically affect carpet softness.

As shown, for example, in FIG. 1, when in the retracted configuration, the length of the telescopically extendable rod 232 is reduced to less than 15 centimeters, preferably less than 10 centimeters, more preferably less than 7 centimeters. cm, and when the spray arm 220 is in its fully extended configuration, the telescopically extendable rod 232 can be extended to greater than 50 cm, preferably greater than 70 cm. Meanwhile, the outer diameter and maximum diameter of the spraying arm 220 are not more than 5 cm, preferably not more than 3.5 cm.

The spray arm 220 firstly comprises a handle 231, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, this handle is the most proximal part of the spray arm 220, ie the part closest to the user during use. It is of elongated shape, and it may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic, metal, alloy, cork, or a combination of several materials, but preferably the outer surface of the handle 231 is coated with a non-slip rubber-like Material. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the handle 231 includes a hollow portion 234 within which the dispensing tube 233 is disposed. The hollow portion 234 is a cylindrical channel whose diameter exceeds the outer diameter of the dispensing tube 233 slightly. It is preferable to provide this channel along most of the length of the handle 231 . Preferably, the length of the handle is less than 20 cm, more preferably less than 15 cm.

Once the spreading tube 233 of the spray arm 220 is connected to the liquid source, the spray arm 220 can be disconnected from the liquid source before use, or alternatively, it can remain attached to the liquid source, e.g. Use it while making it one with the body of said source. Preferably, the extendable spray arm is removably fastened to the liquid source so that it can be removed at any time, for example, disposed separately from the main body of the portable device.

The handle 231 includes a recess in which at least a portion 235 of the telescopically extendable rod 232 resides when the spray arm 220 is in its retracted configuration, as shown in FIG. 3 . Preferably, when the telescopically extendable rod 232 is in a fully retracted state, the portion of the telescopically extendable rod that protrudes from the handle 231, that is, the length of the portion that is not in the handle 231, is less than at 50%, preferably less than 25%, of the total length of said telescopically extendable rod 232 in the retracted state. In this way, while the user benefits from the overall length of the telescopically extendable rod 232, that is, the substantially combined length of all sections of said telescopically extendable rod 232, she/he can also benefit from the A retracted spray arm 220 of very short length.

Optionally, in the case where the spray arm 220 is designed to be as light as possible, the handle 231 includes a counterweight, which is either releasably for example clamped or screwed onto said handle 231 as a separate component, or it becomes an integral body with said handle 231. The counterweight may be useful in situations where the weight of the distal end of the device increases, for example when in the extended state, and/or when the dispensing tube 233 is filled with water during use.

The telescopically extendable rod 232 of the spray arm 220 comprises a series of at least two tubular members 241 which are movably connected to each other. For clarity in the following description, it is determined that the spray arm 220 is oriented to include a proximal end near the handle 231 and a distal end to which the liquid product is to be dispensed. These tubular members 241 can be of any shape such that the members can be joined to form a rod-like extension which can be extended or retracted by sliding one member relative to the previous one. Any material may be used which provides sufficient resistance to deformation while being as light as possible. Such suitable materials include, for example, thermoplastic resins, metals, alloys, wood fibers, carbon fibers, or mixtures of these materials. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the tubular member 241 is made of metal.

Each tubular member 241 is telescopically engaged with and slidable along the adjacent tubular member. Preferably, each tubular member 241 is shaped so as to slide freely inside the previous tubular member and to allow the next tubular member to slide freely inside. However, the tubes 241 may be "positionally reversible" such that each tube slides along the outer side of the previous tube. Sliding one tubular member inward or outward relative to an adjacent tubular member retracts or extends the telescopically extendable rod 232 of the spray arm 220 for storage, or for cleaning and specific job needs.

For some jobs, the user must be able to use the spray arm 220 at an intermediate length. For such purpose, the number of tubular members 241 is preferably more than three, more preferably more than five. In a first embodiment of the invention, the diameter and shape of the tubular members are adjusted such that when one member slides freely relative to an adjacent member, the coefficient of friction between the two connected members requires a certain amount of force. They slide, they cannot slide freely only by their own weight. While the user must apply a certain force to make them slide, once they are set at a certain length, the friction force is sufficient to maintain this state during use or transportation. Those skilled in the art will suitably select suitable values for the coefficient of friction and suitable shapes and diameters of the tubular member.

Finally, in any of the above embodiments of the invention, at least a portion of the proximal section of the telescopically extendable rod 232 of the spray arm 220 is designed to fit within the handle 231 when the spray arm 220 is in the retracted configuration. internal. Preferably, when the telescopically extendable rod 232 is in a fully retracted state, the portion of the telescopically extendable rod protruding from the handle 231, that is, the length of the part not inside the handle 231 is less than 50%, preferably less than 25%, of the total length of said telescopically extendable rod 232 in the retracted state.

The last tubular member 243, the tubular member closest to the distal end of the spray arm 220, has a distal end to which one or more, preferably a nozzle 230, is fastened at this end, and The structure is made as described above. Optionally, the nozzle is removable and can be replaced with another nozzle with a different spray pattern. This allows the user to selectively pick the spray pattern for the surface to be cleaned. In this case, the nozzle is secured to the tubular member at the distal end of the telescopically extendable rod 232 of the spray arm by threads, clamps or other releasable means.

Additionally, the nozzle is designed such that it can be set to produce different spray patterns.

Optionally, the spray nozzle 230 is mounted to the distal end section 243 of the telescopically extendable rod by a rotatable mounting device such as a ball/socket joint so that the user can manually Spray nozzles 230 are oriented for easy access to inaccessible surfaces.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the spray arm 220 is provided with an anti-drip valve 244 . In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the anti-drip valve is located adjacent to the flat fan-shaped spray nozzle 230 . At the moment the user stops supplying liquid to the dispensing tube 233, for example by stopping the pump of a portable device such as an electrospray device, there is still liquid in the line. As a result, when the user moves the spray arm 220 or when the user retracts the telescopically extendable rod 232 in order to place the spray arm 220, the liquid left in the tube is very likely to overflow. Such overflow is obviously undesirable and can be prevented by use of the anti-drip valve 244 . The valve is preferably located at the distal portion of the spray arm 220, more preferably connected between the distribution tube 233 and the nozzle. Several configurations of the anti-drip valve 244 may be used in the present invention.

In the first embodiment, the anti-drip valve 244 is an umbrella valve 245 as shown in Figures 4A, B and C, the valve is integrated into a channel with a reduced diameter portion 246 Fasten it in place. As shown in Figure 4B, the central portion of the valve includes a fluid passage 247 through which fluid can freely flow. As shown in Figure 4C, the umbrella portion 245 of the valve is curved and deformable, positioned so that it normally contacts the wall of the channel. As a result, liquid must deform the deformable umbrella portion 245 in order to flow. Such deformation can be achieved, for example, by pumping liquid from a storage device of a portable device (such as an electrospray device), however, once the pump stops, the liquid pressure in the dispensing tube 233 is insufficient to deform the umbrella portion 245, and the valve is turned back. Close up and fluid flow stops.

In a second embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B , the valve comprises a rigid housing 248 comprising a hollow portion with tapered walls 249 . Also within the housing is a movable cone 250 and an elastic member 251, the elasticity of which presses the cone against the conical wall 249 of the housing, making a liquid-tight seal and releasable of the seal. Position the cone so that it faces the flow. When the pressure in the dispensing tube 233 is high enough, such as when liquid is pumped from a storage device of a portable device such as an electrospray device, the liquid pushes the movable cone 250, past the valve, to the nozzle of the spray arm 220. Once the liquid pressure in the pipe is insufficient, such as when the pump of the electric sprinkler is stopped, the elastic member presses the cone back against the conical wall 249 of the housing, and the liquid flow stops.

The spray arm 220 also includes a distribution tube 233 which delivers the liquid to be sprayed from a source such as a storage device or bottle connected to a portable device (e.g., an electrospray device) until it is in fluid communication with the connected Nozzles of the spray arm 220. Dispersion pipe 233 is connected to spray arm 220 at least at one point. It can be made of any suitable material, such as thermoplastic resin, natural or synthetic rubber, metal or alloy, or a combination of the above materials. Preferably, the distribution tube 233 extends uninterrupted along the length of the spray arm 220, from the proximal end to the distal end. Preferably, the distribution tube 233 is uninterrupted from the liquid source all the way to the nozzle, as shown in FIG. 1 . Such an arrangement makes it possible to efficiently discharge the cleaning solution from the nozzles regardless of the relative position of the tubular members to each other, while providing the user with the spray arm 220 for spraying the liquid without leakage.

In the first preferred embodiment of the present invention, the spreading pipe 233 is mounted in the handle 231, as shown in FIG. The outside of the telescopically extendable rod 232 of 220. Preferably, said convoluted portion comprises at least 10 turns 252 . The distal portion of the tube is connected to the nozzle 10 by a liquid-tight connection. In the retracted state, the extended state and the intermediate position of the spray arm 220, the liquid flow rate is substantially the same.

In the second embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing tube 233 is linear and is preferably made of an inextensible thermoplastic material. It is connected by its proximal end to a liquid source. The spreading tube 233 is also connected to the spray arm 220 by a fish rod-like connection, preferably at least at one point on each tubular member. In addition, the spreading tube 233 can only be attached to the liquid source, attached to the handle 231 of the spray arm 220, and then attached to the nozzle without being connected to or connected to the telescopically extendable rod 232 of the spray arm 220. Only partially connected. Partial connection means that the pipe is connected to the extendable part of the spray arm 220 at only one or two points. Such fishing rod connections include, for example, circular rings made of metal, plastic, or a combination thereof, through which the tube can slide freely when the spray arm 220 is extended or retracted. The distal end of the tube is connected to the nozzle of the spray arm 220 in a leak-tight manner.

In a third embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing tube 233 is straight and made of a rubber-like material, preferably silicone rubber. This material gives the tube sufficient deformability so that when the spray arm 220 is extended, the distribution tube 233 stretches elastically as well, but its diameter remains substantially constant. As a result, the flow of liquid through the nozzle remains substantially constant when the spray arm 220 is in the retracted state, the extended state, or an intermediate position.

From the foregoing it will be appreciated that the amount of relatively heavy cleaning solution remaining within the relatively smaller diameter dispersion tube 233 will be reduced. Also, the materials chosen to make the various parts of the spray arm 220 are lightweight. As a result, the weight of the spray arm 220 is minimized, said spray arm 220 is very easy to maneuver and less tiring to manipulate, even over long periods of time, especially when handled by a woman. Preferably, the spray arm weighs less than 200 grams, more preferably less than 150 grams. Vents for Storage Units

The liquid storage means is preferably provided with a vent so that air can enter the storage means when the product is pumped out. Venting can be effected, for example, via a non-return valve, a venting membrane, or a mechanically or electrically actuated valve. Alternatively, the product can be stored in the liquid storage unit in a deformable bag that collapses when the product is pumped out. The fluid storage means is also preferably provided with a means for releasably engaging the pump/motor assembly. When the storage device is empty, it can be removed from the pump/motor assembly, either thrown away, or refilled. The filled fluid storage device can then be reconnected to the pump for later use.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the liquid storage device is a liquid-filled bottle provided with a drain and fluid transfer fitting that allows the contents of the bottle to be drained without the bottle being turned upside down. There will be contents spilled. Referring to Figures 6A, B, C and 7, a preferred discharge and fluid transfer fitting 310 includes a transfer fitting 311 having a transfer check valve 312 and a discharge check valve 313 in an unassembled configuration (Fig. 6A, B and C) and the assembled configuration (Fig. 7) are shown. The transfer fitting 311 is preferably a one-piece molded part that includes both a transfer check valve 312 and a discharge check valve 313 (FIGS. 6A, B). However, the fitting may also include a cap or enclosure 314 into which the separate delivery check valve 312 and discharge check valve 313 are inserted (FIG. 9C) without departing from the scope of the invention.

Furthermore, the preferred transfer fitting 311 may have support ribs 315 which increase the stability of the transfer fitting 311 and in particular the transfer check valve 312, as shown in Figs. 6A,B. Delivery check valve 312 and discharge check valve 313 are preferably duckbill valves which have inherent sealing pressure and which are oriented in the same direction. However, valves 312 and 313 may be of various types without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, one-way valves 312 and 313 may be umbrella valves, ball and spring one-way valves, or slit valves. Furthermore, the discharge check valve 313 may be positioned elsewhere on the bottle 2, and/or in a different orientation, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The preferred duckbill delivery valve 312 has an open end 312a and a closed "bird's beak" end 312b which remains in place when the duckbill delivery valve 312 is in a relaxed state (FIG. 6A). Closed state. The preferred duckbill discharge valve 313 also has an open end 313a and a closed "bird's beak" end 313b which remains in place when the duckbill discharge valve 313 is in a relaxed state (FIG. 6A). Disabled.

The preferred fitting 311 is attached to the fluid filled bottle 2 , in particular to an opening 317 , by snapping a snap bead 318 of the fitting 311 into a snap edge 318 of the bottle 2 . However, it is also possible to attach the fitting 311 to the bottle 2 using the threads 320 on the bottle 321, as is well known in the art. After attaching the preferred fitting 311 to the bottle 2, said bottle can be turned upside down without the fluid contents of the bottle 2 flowing out because the valves 312 and 313 are in the relaxed state as shown in Figure 9a , ends 312b and 313b remain closed.

The preferred fitting 311 and bottle 2 assembly is attached to a receiving mount 322 having a probe tip 323 and an air discharge groove 324. The probe tip 323 has first and second open ends 323a and 323b, respectively. When inserted into open end 312a, first open end 323a of probe tip 323 deforms and opens "bird's beak" end 312b of duckbill transfer valve 312 (FIG. 7). The second open end 323b of the probe tip 323 is preferably connected to a tube 233 for directing fluid from the bottle 2 to the pump or to a storage device (not shown). However, tube 233 and storage device mount 322 may be formed as a single piece without departing from the scope of the present invention.

When the bottle 2 is in an inverted position (FIG. 6A), the internal static pressure acting on the "bird's beak" ends 312b and 313b of the duckbill valves 312 and 313, respectively, will seal the valves 312 and 313 tightly. Thus, valves 312 and 313 prevent fluid from prematurely exiting the inverted bottle 2 until probe 323 receiving mount 322 is inserted into duckbill transfer valve 312 .

After the mounting-receiving probe 323 is inserted into the duckbill delivery valve 312, fluid is delivered through the probe tip 323 due to gravity, which then deforms the duckbill delivery valve 312 and opens. As a result, a vacuum pressure (negative pressure) is generated in the bottle 2 . When this vacuum is sufficient to overcome the sealing pressure on the discharge valve 313, an air bubble will enter the bottle 2 along the air flow path 326 (Fig. 7), and this bubble will soon weaken the pressure generated in the bottle 2 due to the outflow of fluid. Vacuum pressure, and maintain sealing pressure. Preferably, the sealing pressure of the duckbill discharge valve 313 is lower than the sealing pressure of the duckbill delivery valve 312 . As a result, the vacuum pressure (negative pressure) created in the bottle 2 will cause the duckbill discharge valve 313 to open, while the duckbill delivery valve 312 across the opening created by the movement of the valve 312 by the probe 323 will not open.

The air discharge groove 324 in the receiving mount 322 ensures that air can reach the duckbill discharge valve 313 and that air can enter the bottle 2 when sufficient negative pressure is created by the fluid conveyed by the bottle 2 . When the probe tip 323 is pushed through the duckbill transfer valve 312 ( FIG. 7 ), the probe 323 is sealed along the inner wall of the duckbill valve 312 . In the fully seated position ( FIG. 7 ), probe 323 passes through open end 312a of duckbill valve 312 and provides a fluid path to tube 233 . switch

The switch can be of any suitable ergonomic design and is usually operated with a finger or thumb. The switch can have child-safe features. product

Products useful in the present invention are treatment products that benefit the surface being treated. Such cleaning products preferably include an active ingredient, more preferably, such cleaning products include a surfactant. Most preferably, the sprayed component is an aqueous cleansing component. However, they may also comprise, for example, washing products or cleaning products, or perfumes, and components comprising deodorant ingredients such as cyclodextrins or substituted cyclodextrins. Such deodorizing components are disclosed, for example, in documents EP 0774978; EP 0776220; EP 0774980 and EP 0775229, all of which have been filed by the Procter & Gamble Company.

In preferred embodiments, the product is a cleaning component, the most useful components including surfactants; builders; bleaches and bleach activators; enzymes and enzyme stabilizers; Precipitating agents; aqueous or non-aqueous dispersing agents; brighteners; foam inhibitors; dye transfer inhibitors.

Typically at least from about 1% to about 55% by weight, non-limiting examples of surfactants useful herein include conventional C ₁₁ -C ₁₈ alkylbenzene sulfonates ("LAS") and backbone, branched Chain and heterochain C ₁₀ -C ₂₀ alkyl sulfates (“AS”) with the formula CH ₃ (CH ₂ ) _x (CHOSO ₃ -M ⁺ )CH ₃ and CH ₃ (CH ₂ ) _y (CHOSO ₃ -M ⁺ ) C ₁₀ -C ₁₈ secondary (2,3) alkyl sulfates of CH ₂ CH ₃ , wherein x and y+1 are integers of at least about 7, preferably at least about 9, and M is a Water-soluble cations, especially sodium, unsaturated sulfates such as oleyl sulfate, C ₁₁ -C ₁₈ alkyl alkoxy sulfate ("AE _x S"; especially EO 1-7 ethoxy sulfate), sarcosinate surfactant, sulfosuccinate surfactant, sulfosuccinamate surfactant, sulfosuccinamide surfactant, C ₁₀ -C ₁₈ alkyl alkoxy carboxyl salts (especially EO 1-5 ethoxy carboxylates), C ₁₀ -C ₁₈ glyceryl ethers, C ₁₀ -C ₁₈ alkyl polyglycosides and their corresponding sulfonated polyglycosides, and C ₁₂ -C ₁₈ α - Sulfonated fatty acid esters. If desired, conventional nonionic and amphoteric surfactants such as C ₁₂ -C ₁₈ alkyl ethoxylates (“AE”) may also be included in the overall composition, which includes so-called narrow peak Alkyl ethoxylates and C ₆ -C ₁₂ alkylphenol alkoxylates (especially ethoxylates and mixed ethoxylates/propoxylates), C ₁₂ -C ₁₈ betaines and sulphobeets Bases ("sultaines"), oxides of _C10 - _C18 amines, and the like. C ₁₂ -C ₁₈ N-alkyl polyhydroxy fatty acid amides may also be used. Typical examples include C ₁₂ -C ₁₈ N-methylglucamine. See WO 9206154. Other sugar-derived surfactants include N-alkoxy polyhydroxy fatty acid amides such as C ₁₀ -C ₁₈ N-(3-methoxypropyl)glucosamine. N-propyl to N-hexyl C ₁₂ -C ₁₈ glucosamines can be used for less foaming. _C10 - _C20 conventional soaps can also be used. If more lather is desired, branched C ₁₀ -C ₁₆ soaps can be used. Mixtures of anionic and nonionic surfactants are particularly useful. Other conventionally useful surfactants are listed in general textbooks.

Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of a packaged product or portable device 1 which can be used with one or two hands. The device is partially shown in cutaway section. The portable device 1 comprises a liquid storage device, which is a conventional bottle 2 , from which an electric pump/motor 5 , 6 pumps liquid from the storage device to the spray arm 220 through the distribution tube 233 . The spray arm 220 is of the preferred type as previously described and includes a handle 231, a deformable spreader tube 233 coiled around a telescopically extendable rod 232 which, when said spray arm 220 is retracted, The telescopically extendable rod 232 is partially disposed inside the handle 231 . Housing 204 also includes a battery 7 and a switch 8 . The spray arm can be attached to the housing of the device (for example, with a clamping mechanism), or it can be detached from the body of the device, and the device can be held in one hand while the spray arm is held in the other hand . The housing 204 is designed so that the bottle 2 is upside down when the device is held by the handle 3 to use it. The advantage of this configuration is that no dip tube is required and it is easier to use up the bottle. Also, the short distance from the liquid to the pump inlet will allow rapid filling of the pump 5 when it is not full.

process

Another aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a portable device as previously described comprising a spray arm with at least one flat fan nozzle for cleaning carpets and other floor coverings, as well as for other large surfaces such as walls ,ceiling...). Cleaning here means including maintaining the appearance of the rugs, floor coverings and other large surfaces.

The packaged products described in this invention are particularly useful for treating carpets, floor coverings or other large surfaces. A process for treating carpets comprising the steps of: (a) applying the carpet cleaning composition to the carpet in the form of sprayed droplets having a particle size distribution preferably having a mean diameter D(v,0.9) of less than 1500 microns , more preferably, less than about 1000 microns, even more preferably, less than about 750 microns, most preferably between 350 and 10 microns, the amount of component applied to the carpet preferably consists of Carpet 1 ml to 120 ml, preferably from about 10 to about 80 ml, even more preferably from about 20 to about 60 ml, most preferably from about 30 to about 50 ml, (b) leaving said component on the carpet to dry, and (c) optionally removing the component by vacuuming said carpet or using a similar removal process, said component preferably being joined by the Selected from those components described in the referenced application, and, after drying and vacuuming with a conventional vacuum cleaner such as the Hoover 1300W standard unit for carpets, the residual amount is preferably less than 40%, More preferably less than about 60%.

The process preferably also includes the additional step of mechanically acting on the carpet after applying the composition to the carpet and before allowing said composition to dry on said carpet. This additional step may be required where removal of contamination by chemical action alone and vacuum suction is found to be particularly difficult. The mechanical action can be achieved by using a brush, sponge, rubbing glove, fingernail, or any other similar device.

By "drying" here is meant a step in which at least 40%, preferably at least 60%, of the initial quantity of the component sprayed on the carpet is lost due to evaporation.

The residue after vacuum cleaning (TVRi) is defined as follows: $\mathrm{TVRi}(\%)=\frac{\mathrm{wxya}-w}{\mathrm{wt}-w}\×100$ in:

Ws represents the initial weight of the carpet sample (before any treatment);

Wt represents the weight of the same carpet sample immediately after the component used to clean the carpet has been applied to the carpet; the rate at which the component is applied (gr m ⁻² s ⁻¹ ) and/or the time of application (seconds) affects Wt.

Wfv represents the final weight of the same carpet sample after it has been vacuumed on a Hoover 1300W standard unit for carpet;

Ws, Wt and Wfv can be expressed in any weight unit as long as the same units are used for these three parameters.

The test methods suitable for determining residual quantities are those described below:

A 10 x 10 cm carpet sample was weighed before and after it was vacuumed with a Hoover 1300W for 10 seconds. In order to avoid affecting the weight loss of the carpet itself (e.g. fibers) when vacuuming the sample to determine the residual amount, it is important to repeat the vacuuming several times as required and then weigh the carpet sample until the weight loss due to vacuum The suction weight loss is less than 5% of the component dose (ie, for a 100 cm2 sample and a 50 gr/ ^m2 dose, the loss due to vacuum washing must be less than 0.025 gr). The subsequent weight of the carpet sample after the previous steps is Ws.

The components were then sprayed onto the carpet in an amount of 50 gr/ ^m2 and the samples were subsequently weighed to determine the Wt. The components were then left to dry on the sample for 60 minutes and vacuum was applied using a ^Hoover® 1300W for 10 seconds. The step of leaving the components on the carpet to dry is of course carried out under "normal temperature" and "normal humidity conditions". Here "normal temperature condition" means from 15°C to 25°C, preferably from 20°C to 25°C. Here "normal humidity condition" means from 40% RH (percent relative humidity) to 80% RH, preferably from 50% RH to 65% RH. Finally, the samples were weighed again to determine Wfv. Preferably, the residual amount is at least about 40%, more preferably at least about 60%, and even more preferably at least about 80%.

This method is especially useful for new carpet or carpet that is in near-new condition, where the carpet has not been heavily soiled. It is advantageous to clean such carpets on a regular basis, at least about every two months, preferably at least about every month, more preferably at least once a week, even more preferably every few days, For example about 1-6 days, preferably once every 2-5 days. Soil left on the carpet can spread down the carpet and/or into the fibers and/or backing, making it difficult to remove. The benefit of frequent cleaning is that the carpet is more durable and will remain in acceptable condition for a longer period of time. For frequent cleaning, it is necessary to use a non-manually operated spray device so that the user does not get tired from the operation. "Non-manually operated" in this context means that the spraying device may be manually actuated, but the force required to deliver the product from the storage device to the dispensing nozzle is provided by another non-manually operated device.

Most preferably, the spraying device is a non-aerosol mechanically or electrically driven, pumped spraying device, especially as disclosed herein. As previously described, the spraying device comprises a storage device, a spray arm with spreading nozzles, and a device for delivering product from the storage device to the spreading nozzles, preferably a pump mechanism , securely fix the mechanism on the storage device with threads or buckles. The storage unit includes a container for containing the carpet cleaning composition to be sprayed. The storage device may be constructed of any conventional material including, but not limited to: polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET); polyethylene, polyvinyl acetal, and rubber elastomeric mixture. A preferred storage device is made of a clear material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Other materials may include stainless steel.

Other types of non-manually operated sprinklers may also be used, including a wide variety of sprinklers as listed in the examples below. For example, aerosol spraying devices can be used, but these are environmentally undesirable and relatively expensive. The aerosol spray device includes a container which may be made of any conventional material used in the manufacture of aerosol containers. The sprinkler must be capable of withstanding internal pressures ranging from about 20 to about 110 p.s.i.g., preferably from about 20 to about 70 p.s.i.g. An important requirement for a spray device is that it be provided with a valve which will allow the carpet cleaning composition in the spray device to be sprayed in the form of very fine particles or finely dispersed particles or droplets, as previously described as described. The aerosol spray device uses a high-pressure sealed container to spray a clean, aqueous wrinkle-removing composition under high pressure through a special actuator/valve assembly. An aerosol spray device is pressurized with a gas component incorporated therein, commonly referred to as a propellant. Usual aerosol propellants can be used, for example gaseous hydrocarbons, such as isobutane, and mixed halogenated hydrocarbons. Halogenated hydrocarbon propellants such as chlorofluorohydrocarbons have been determined to pose environmental concerns and are therefore not preferred. When cyclodextrins are present in carpet cleaning components for odor control reasons, hydrocarbon propellants are not preferred because they may form complexes with cyclodextrin molecules, reducing uncomplexed cyclic Availability of dextrins for odor absorption. Preferred propellants are compressed air, nitrogen, inert gases, carbon dioxide, and the like. A more complete description of commercially available aerosol spray devices is found in U.S. Patent No. 3,436,772 issued April 8, 1969 to Stebbins and U.S. Patent No. 3,600,325 issued August 17, 1971 to Kaufman et al. ; Both references are hereby incorporated by reference.

The spray device is preferably a self-pressurizable non-aerosol container having a convoluted liner and an elastic sleeve. The self-pressurizing sprinkler includes a liner/sleeve assembly comprising a thin radially extensible flexible convoluted plastic liner of a thickness from about 0.010 to about 0.020 inches (i.e., from about 0.025 to 0.051 inches) cm), which has a cylindrical elastic sleeve inside. The liner/sleeve is capable of holding a substantial amount of carpet cleaning component product and enabling said product to be sprayed. A more complete description of self-pressurizing sprinkler devices can be found in Winer's U.S. Patent No. 5,111,971 issued May 12, 1992 and Winer's U.S. Patent No. 5,232,126 issued August 3, 1993; here Both references are incorporated by reference. In another type of aerosol spray device, a barrier separates the carpet cleaning components from the propellant, preferably compressed air or nitrogen, as in U.S. Patent No. 4,260,110 issued April 7, 1981 as published in , which is hereby incorporated by reference. Such spraying devices are available from EP Spray Systems, East Hanover, New Jersey.

Other non-manually operated spraying devices include, but are not limited to, powered spraying devices that are not the preferred embodiments disclosed above, air suction spraying devices, liquid suction spraying devices, electrostatic spraying devices, and nebulizer spraying devices. For spreading onto the fibers, the carpet cleaning composition is contained in a spray device.

The powered spray device includes self-contained powered pumps that pressurize the aqueous odor-absorbing composition and distribute the composition through nozzles to produce spray liquid droplets. Attaching the powered spray unit directly to a storage unit (such as a bottle) or by using lines/tubing to attach the spray unit to a remote storage unit that holds the carpet cleaning components . Powered spray devices include, but are not limited to, centrifugal or positive displacement devices. Powered sprinklers are preferably powered by a portable DC power source, either by disposable batteries (such as commercially available alkaline batteries) or by rechargeable battery units (such as commercially available nickel-cadmium battery cells ) to provide power. Powered sprinklers can also be powered by standard AC power available in most buildings.

Non-limiting examples of commercially available powered sprinkler devices are disclosed in US Patent No. 4,865,255 issued September 12, 1989 to Luvisotto, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Preferred powered sprayers are readily available from suppliers such as Solo, Newport News, Virginia (e.g. Solo Spraystar ^™ refillable sprayer, listed as manual part number US460395) and Multi-sprayer Sysrems, Minneapolis, Minnesota (eg, model: Spray 1).

Sprinklers that draw in air include those types of sprinklers commonly referred to as "air brushes." A stream of compressed air draws the aqueous odor-absorbing component upwards and sprays the component through nozzles, producing a liquid spray. The odor-absorbing component may be supplied through a separate line/pipe, or more commonly contained in a jar to which the air-inhaling spray is mounted.

Non-limiting examples of commercially available air-inhaling spray devices are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 1,536,352 issued April 22, 1924 by Murray and U.S. Patent No. 4,221,339 issued September 9, 1980 by Yoshikawa. example, all said references are hereby incorporated by reference. Air-inhaled spray units are readily available from suppliers such as The Badger Air-Brush Co, Franklin Park, Illinois (e.g., Model No. 155) and Wilton Air Brush Equipment, Woodridge, Illinois (e.g., Stock No.: 415-4000, 415-4001, 415-4100).

Sprinklers that suck liquid are typically of the type widely used for spraying garden chemicals. The aqueous odor-absorbing component is drawn into the fluid stream by means of suction produced by the Venturi effect. High turbulence is used to mix the aqueous odor-absorbing component with the fluid flow (typically water) to provide a homogeneous mixture/concentration. By this method of spraying, the aqueous concentrated odor-absorbing composition of the present invention can be dispersed into the inhalation fluid stream and subsequently diluted to a selected concentration with the delivery fluid.

Sprinklers for suction fluid are readily available from suppliers such as Chapin Manufacturing Works, Batavia, New York (eg, model number: 6006).

Electrostatic spraying devices apply energy to aqueous odor-absorbing components through a high potential. This energy is used to atomize and impart an electrical charge to the aqueous odor-absorbing component, resulting in a spray of finely charged particles. When the charged particles are carried away from the spraying device, their identical charge causes them to repel each other. This will have two effects before the spray reaches the target. First, the entire spray will be diffused. This is especially important when spraying large areas over considerable distances. The second effect is to maintain the original particle size. Because the particles repel each other, they do not clump together into larger, heavier particles, as would happen with uncharged particles. This reduces the effect of gravity and increases the amount of charged particles that reach the target. When a large number of negatively charged particles reach the target, they push electrons inward, into the interior of the target, temporarily giving all exposed target surfaces a positive charge. The attraction formed between the particle and the target exceeds the influence of gravity and inertia. As each particle settles on the target, that point on the target becomes neutral and no longer attractive. Thus, the next free particle is attracted to the immediately adjacent point, and this process continues until the entire surface of the object is covered. In this way, the charged particles improve distribution and reduce dripping.

US Patent No. 5,222,664 issued June 29, 1993 by Noakes; US Patent No. 4,962,885 issued October 16, 1990 by Coffee; US Patent No. 2,695,002 issued November 1954 by Miller; Greene issued in 1995 U.S. Patent No. 5,405,090, issued April 11, 1988; Kuhn, U.S. Patent No. 4,752,034, issued June 21, 1988; Badger, U.S. Patent No. 2,989,241, issued June, 1961 Non-limiting examples of spraying devices; all said patents are hereby incorporated by reference. Electrostatic spray units are readily available from suppliers such as Tea in Tech Co, South Korea and Spectrum, Houston, Texas.

Nebuliser spraying devices apply energy to the aqueous odor-absorbing components via ultrasonic energy supplied by a frequency converter. This energy is used to cause atomization in the aqueous odor-absorbing component. Various types of nebulizer spray devices include, but are not limited to, heated, ultrasonic, gas, venturi, and refillable nebulizers.

U.S. Patent No. 3,901,443 issued August 26, 1975 by Mutsui; U.S. Patent No. 2,847,248 issued August 1958 by Schmitt; Non-limiting examples of nebuliser spraying devices available on the Internet; all of said patents are incorporated herein by reference. Electrostatic spraying devices are readily available from suppliers such as A&D Engineering, Inc., Milpitas, California (e.g., Model A&D Un-231 ultrasonic handy nebulizer) and Amici, Inc., Spring City, Pennsylvania (Model : swirler nebulizer).

Preferred articles of manufacture herein include non-manually operated spray devices, such as battery powered spray devices, particularly the spray devices of the foregoing disclosure, which contain carpet cleaning components. Preferably, the article of manufacture comprises a combination of a non-manually operated spray device and a separate container of the carpet cleaning component which is added to the spray device and/or separated for filling/refilling prior to use . The individual containers may contain a use component, or a concentrated component that is diluted before use, and/or used with a diluting spray device, such as a spray device that draws in liquid, as described above as described. In addition, the structure of the separate container should fit together with the rest of the spraying device to ensure a secure fit, without leakage, even after movement, impact etc. and when used by inexperienced users.

A desired article of manufacture may also include a non-manually operated spray device and/or carpet cleaning component, preferably the carpet cleaning component is substantially (e.g., greater than about 40%) in the storage device, the spray device being the same as previously described In combination with a set of instructions describing the use of the article in a process (a method) as such, preferably limiting the particle size and/or degree of application and/or drying and/or vacuuming of the process so that all Desirable Treatment Frequency Cleaning of carpets and in particular treatment of carpets, especially new or new looking carpets, in order to maintain the appearance and/or condition of the carpets. It is important to inform the user that it is okay to treat at such a frequency, especially since a large amount of active cleaning ingredients are removed. Optionally, when the components comprise hydrogen peroxide and/or the polymers disclosed herein, it is important to advise the user that such treatment will solve the problems and/or provide alternatives to the set of Benefits related to: killing or reducing bacteria; softening; saving time and/or labor required to clean the carpet, reducing static; making the surface appear "fluffier"; and/or reducing odor. It is important to make the user aware of these additional benefits, because otherwise the user is unaware that the components can solve these problems and/or provide these benefits.

As used herein, the phrase "in conjunction with" means that the set of instructions for use is either printed directly on the storage device itself, or provided in a separate form, including but not limited to brochures, printed advertisements, electronic Advertisements, and/or unwritten notices, thereby informing users of the manufactured article of that set of instructions for use. That set of instructions for use preferably includes instructions for applying an effective amount of the components, preferably by spraying, to provide the stated benefits, such as maintaining the appearance, softness, and/or loft of the carpet; antibacterial Function; antistatic effect, and/or reduce time and/or labor for cleaning, and optionally, control and/or reduce odor, reduce bacterial contamination and/or kill insects.

Claims (15)

CLAIMS 1. A portable device for spraying liquids at low pressure, said device comprising a spray arm, characterized in that the spray arm comprises at least one flat fan-shaped spray nozzle. 2. The portable device of claim 1, wherein said liquid is a cleaning composition for treating carpets and other large fibrous coverings. 3. A portable device according to claim 1 or 2, which is an electrically driven device. 4. A portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spray arm is telescopic. 5. A portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spray arm is detachable from the main unit of the device. 6. A portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spraying angle in the plane of the flat sector is in the range of 30[deg.] to 120[deg.]. 7. Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spraying angle in a plane perpendicular to the flat sector is less than 20 degrees, preferably less than 15 degrees. 8. A portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flow rate of the spray is less than 500 ml/min. 9. A portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the maximum pressure at the outlet is lower than 3 bar. 10. A portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mean diameter of the sprayed particles is in the range of 1 to 500 microns, preferably in the range of 10 to 350 microns. 11. A portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stem further includes an anti-drip valve. 12. The portable device of claim 11, wherein the anti-drip valve is located proximate to the spray nozzle. 13. A process for cleaning a carpet, floor covering or other large surface comprising the steps of: i) applying a component to said carpet, floor covering or other large surface by means of a flat fan spray using a portable device according to any one of the preceding claims; ii) leaving the components to dry on the carpet, floor covering or other large surface; and iii) Optionally remove the components by using a vacuum cleaner or similar device. 14. The process according to claim 13, which includes the additional step of: drying said component on said carpet, floor covering or other large surface, exert a mechanical action on the large surface. 15. A process according to any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein said mechanical action is effected by use of a brush, sponge-like wiper, rubbing glove, or similar device.

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