CN1711388A - Fabric article treating method and device comprising a heating means - Google Patents

Abstract

A fabric article treating device for use with a fabric article drying appliance. The fabric article treating device dispenses a benefit composition into a chamber so as to provide benefits to fabric articles contained within the fabric article drying appliance. The treating device includes a means of heating the benefit composition.

Description

Fabric article treatment method and apparatus including heating means

field of invention

The present invention relates to a removably attached treatment device suitable for use in a fabric article drying device, one non-limiting example of which includes a clothes dryer. The processing unit may be a freestanding, isolated unit. The treatment device dispenses the benefit composition through a nozzle that sprays the benefit composition into a chamber (one non-limiting example of which includes the drum of a clothes dryer) to provide Fabric articles provide benefits. The treatment device includes 1) one or more sources of benefit composition, 2) a dispensing component, and 3) one or more components for heating the benefit composition. The processing device may also include a power source.

Background of the invention

A variety of methods and/or devices for removing wrinkles from fabrics are well known in the art, especially those methods and/or devices that use thermal, mechanical or chemical energy. Wrinkle removal is made more effective by using more than one type of energy. For example, while wrinkle removal can be achieved with chemical energy through fiber lubrication, a more effective approach is to add additional mechanical energy to the fabric by subsequently pulling the fabric into the desired configuration. In an alternative method, chemical energy is replenished by heating the composition. Although the methods described above have been found to be effective for wrinkle removal, they often lead to results that are not entirely satisfactory.

The most effective wrinkle removal methods use all three types of energy: thermal, mechanical and chemical. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that while the chemicals provide the lubrication necessary to remove the wrinkle, the addition of thermal and mechanical energy provides additional energy to break the hydrogen bonds that hold the wrinkle in place. It has been found that a conventional appliance such as a household iron that provides all three powers through pressure, water and heat is very effective at removing wrinkles. It has also been found that the chemicals are even more effective if they are heated, eg as steam. However, no matter how pleasing the results, ironing clothes is often a labor-intensive process involving tedious step-by-step adjustments and handling of clothes.

Efforts have been made to reduce labor in providing three types of energy for optimum wrinkle-removing effects, including integrating spraying devices in clothes drying devices. US Patent 2,846,776 purports to disclose a dispenser integrated into a clothes dryer for adding liquid to clothes after the drying operation. US Patent 4,207,683 purports to disclose a device for spraying clothes with water by integrating a spray nozzle, control valve and water hose into a clothes dryer. A common disadvantage of these integrated distributors is that they add to the expense and complexity of the drying apparatus. Furthermore, since these devices are integrated into the drying device, they offer little flexibility for the user. For example, if one of the integrated units fails as described above, the drying unit needs to be repaired. This will bring great inconvenience and expensive maintenance cost to the user. Furthermore, the drying device cannot be operated while maintenance is in progress.

Therefore, it is always desirable to be able to provide thermal, mechanical and chemical energy in a convenient and cost-effective manner to most effectively remove wrinkles. The treatment device of the invention can be detachably connected to the drying device. The processing unit of the present invention may be a separate stand-alone unit. The treatment device provides convenient wrinkle removal by delivering a heated benefit composition to the fabric article drying device to provide a benefit to a fabric article contained within the fabric article drying device. Furthermore, the disposal device of the present invention provides additional convenience to the user by eliminating the complexity, expense and inconvenience associated with devices integrated into drying devices.

Summary of the invention

The present invention relates to a detachably connected treatment device suitable for use in a fabric drying device. The treatment dispenses the benefit composition through a nozzle that sprays the benefit composition into a chamber to provide a benefit to fabric articles contained within the fabric article drying device. The treatment device includes 1) one or more sources of benefit composition, 2) a dispensing component, and 3) one or more components for heating the benefit composition. The processing device may also include a power source. The processing unit may be a freestanding, isolated unit.

The invention also relates to a system suitable for treating fabrics, said system being suitable for treating fabrics comprising:

a) fabric product drying apparatus; and

b) a fabric article treating device removably connected to said fabric article drying device. The treatment device includes at least one means for heating the benefit composition and includes a dispensing device for dispensing the benefit composition.

The invention also relates to a method for treating fabrics. The method includes

a) providing a fabric article treating device, wherein the fabric article treating device comprises:

i) at least one source of benefit composition;

ii) at least one means for heating the benefit composition; and

iii) A dispensing member for dispensing the benefit composition into the fabric article drying appliance.

b) provide a drying device for fabric products;

c) adding the fabric to be treated to a fabric article drying device;

d) removably attaching the fabric article treating device to the fabric article drying device;

e) heating the benefit composition; and

f) dispensing the heated benefit composition into a fabric article drying device.

Figure overview

Figure 1 is a front view of one embodiment of a fabric article treating device made in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the fabric article treating device taken along line 2-2 of Figure 1 .

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of the fabric article treating device taken along line 2-2 of Figure 1 .

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of the fabric article treating device taken along line 2-2 of Figure 1 .

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of the fabric article treating device taken along line 2-2 of Figure 1 .

Figure 6 depicts one embodiment of a system for processing articles according to the present invention.

Figure 7 illustrates an exploded view of a fabric article treating device made in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 8 is an exploded view of a fabric article treating device made in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fabric article treating device made in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 10 is a perspective view from a diagonal view of the fabric article treating device of Figure 9 .

9 is an elevational view from one side of a partial cross-section of the fabric article treating device of FIG. 9 taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 11 .

12 is an elevational view from one side of a partial cross-section of the inner cabinet portion of the fabric article treating device of FIG. 9 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 9 .

Figure 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating a thermoelectric module that may be used in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 14 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the fabric article treating device of the present invention.

Detailed description of the invention

As used herein, the phrase "fabric article treating system" refers to a fabric article drying apparatus, a non-limiting example of which includes a conventional clothes dryer and/or modifications thereof. The fabric article treating system also includes a fabric article treating device that can be used to deliver the benefit composition. The fabric article treating device is removably associated with the fabric article drying device, and may include the following non-limiting embodiments: a separate device associated with the fabric article drying device by conventional means, such as via ^Velcro® , magnets, straps and the like; or it may be a device integrated into the closure of an easily replaceable fabric article drying appliance that is substantially or completely independent of the controller of the fabric article drying appliance.

As used herein, the term "fabric article" refers to any article that is normally cleaned by conventional laundering or dry cleaning methods. The term includes fabric articles including, but not limited to: clothing, linens and drapes, clothing accessories, leather, floor coverings, and the like. The term also includes other articles made in whole or in part of fabric, non-limiting examples of which include handbags, furniture covers, tarpaulins, shoes, and the like.

The term "benefit composition" as used herein refers to a composition used to deliver a benefit to a fabric article. Non-limiting examples of materials and mixtures thereof comprising benefit compositions include: water, softeners, crisping agents, fragrances, water/stain repellants, fresheners, antistatic agents, antimicrobial agents, durable press agents, Anti-wrinkle agents, anti-odor agents, anti-abrasive agents, solvents, and combinations thereof.

"Conduit" as used herein refers to a conduit or channel through which a benefit composition is delivered. Non-limiting examples of conduits include pipes, tubing, channels, etc., capable of transporting the benefit composition from one point to another within the fabric article treating device. For example, the conduit can transport the benefit composition from the dispensing member to a discharge point, such as a nozzle, orifice, or the like.

As used herein, the phrase "inside the thermal pathway" means within a heat source and one or more components of a device associated with the benefit composition and/or includes the benefit composition itself in direct and/or indirect contact with the one or more components anywhere in between. Non-limiting examples of heat sources include: fabric fabric dryers, exothermic reactions, heating coils, thermoelectric components, and the like.

As used herein, the phrase "thermally conductive material" is used to describe any material having a thermal conductivity or k value of about 5 W/m ^* °C or greater at 25°C. The thermal conductivity of the material can be determined by the guarded hot plate method in ASTM method C177-97 entitled "Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus" or by those of ordinary skill in the art. other known applicable methods.

As used herein, the phrases "dryer" or "drying device" or "fabric article drying device" include devices that may or may not perform an actual drying function, but may refer to treating fabrics without themselves being intended to literally dry the fabrics. As noted above, the terms "dryer" or "drying device" or "fabric article drying device" may include a "dry cleaning" method or device that may or may not literally include a drying step.

Additionally, it should be noted that some drying units include a drying chamber (or "drum") that cannot literally move or rotate when the drying unit is operating in a drying cycle. Some such drying devices use flowing air through the drying chamber, and the chamber does not move while the drying cycle is in progress. One embodiment of such a drying unit has a door and other type of access cover to allow a person to place clothes to be dried into the chamber. In many cases, it is possible to "hang" the laundry on some type of upper rod inside the drying chamber. Once the clothes are loaded, the door (or access lid) is closed and the drying unit begins its drying function. One spray cycle can take place within such a unit, however, care should be taken to ensure that the benefit composition is well spread inside the drying chamber to prevent certain fabrics from receiving little (or no) benefit composition while others receive very high concentrations beneficial composition.

The term "door" as used herein denotes a movable closure structure that enables a person to access the interior volume of the drying device and may be virtually any physical form that enables such access. The door "closure" may be a cover on the upper surface of the dryer unit, or a hatch of some type, or the like.

Fabric Processing Units

The present invention relates to a fabric article treating device capable of providing a heated benefit composition. The processing unit may be a separate, self-contained unit. The unit can be detachably attached to the drying unit. The treatment device may be controlled substantially or completely independently of the fabric article drying device controller.

Non-limiting examples of releasably attaching include conventional methods such as Velcro ^(R) , magnets, straps, and the like. Alternatively, the treatment unit may be integrated into an easily replaceable fabric article drying unit closure (one non-limiting example of which is the door of a clothes dryer) that is independent of the drying unit’s controller .

Beneficial composition heating parts

The fabric article treating device includes one or more heating components positioned within the thermal pathway between the fabric article drying device and one or more components of the fabric article treating device and/or between the benefit composition itself. As used herein, the phrase "heating means" can include thermally conductive materials, heating coils, exothermic reactions, thermoelectric heating, thermoelectric heating, and combinations thereof whereby the heating means dries the benefit composition before and/or after it contacts the fabric article The interior of the device was previously supplied with heat.

The heating element communicates heat with the benefit composition prior to contacting the interior of the fabric article drying device and/or the fabric article. As used herein, the phrase "communicating heat" refers to the communication between a heating component and one or more components of a fabric article treating device associated with a benefit composition, including the benefit composition itself, so as to raise the temperature of the benefit composition to is at least about 5°C above the ambient temperature of the air outside the fabric article drying appliance. Non-limiting examples of components of a fabric article treating device associated with a benefit composition include: nozzles, conduits, discharge points (eg, nozzles), and the like.

A. Thermally conductive material :

In one embodiment of the present invention, the benefit composition may be heated by a thermally conductive material positioned within a thermal pathway between the benefit composition and one or more heat sources. Non-limiting examples of heat sources include: clothes drying devices, heating coils, exothermic reactions, thermoelectric heating, resistive heating, infrared heating, induction heating, and the like.

While it is possible to surround the entire fabric article treating device with thermally conductive material, it may also be advantageous from an economical standpoint to surround only one or more components of the device with thermally conductive material. The positioning of the thermally conductive material comprises one or more components of the device in thermal communication with the beneficial composition, non-limiting examples of which include: a source of beneficial composition, a conduit, a reservoir, or combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of sources of benefit compositions can include reservoirs, household plumbing, boxes, sachets, and the like.

The thermal conductivity or k-value of the thermally conductive material will be about 5 W/m ^* °C or higher at 25°C. Non-limiting examples of such materials include: metallic materials, ceramic materials, composite materials with thermally conductive fillers, and combinations thereof.

Suitable examples of thermally conductive metallic materials include, but are not limited to, aluminum, copper, tin, silver, and the like. The metallic material may be in the form of a rigid plate, or an extensible sheet of foil and may surround one or more components of the device associated with the beneficial composition. The metal material may have a thickness of about 0.1 mm to about 100 mm.

Non-limiting examples of semi-metallic or non-metallic thermally conductive materials include low thermally conductive materials with thermally conductive fillers, such as polyurethane or polyethylene with nitride filled materials. Non-limiting examples of thermally conductive filler materials include aluminum, copper, magnesium, silver, carbon, graphite, ceramic materials, zinc oxide, aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride, boron nitride, silicon nitride, boron carbide, aluminum carbide , silicone carbides, organosiloxanes, and combinations thereof. The low thermal conductivity material may comprise from about 10% to about 80% by weight of thermally conductive filler material. One suitable commercially available filler material is available under the trade designation PolarTherm ^™ from GE Advanced Ceramics of Cleveland, Ohio. A suitable example of a pre-prepared mixture of polymer and thermally conductive filler material is commercially available from Cool Polymers of Warwick, RI, USA under the trade designation ^CoolPoly® RS012, which consists of a polyphenylene sulfide based material and is manufactured at 25 °C has a thermal conductivity of 10 W/mC.

Additionally, the thermally conductive material may be bonded to another component of the fabric article treating device with a thermally conductive epoxy or tape. These thermally conductive epoxies and/or tapes typically (but not always) contain a metal or a form of silicone and serve to further conduct heat. An example of a suitable commercially available thermally conductive epoxy is TC-2707 and a thermally conductive tape is TC-8805, both available from 3M Company of St. Paul, Minnesota.

B. Heating ring

In another embodiment of the present invention, heating of the benefit composition may also be accomplished by providing electrical resistance heating through a heating coil associated with the benefit composition and/or one or more components associated with the benefit composition To exchange heat. Referring to FIGS. 3-4 , heating band 40 may be located anywhere within and/or on fabric article treating device 1 and/or in thermal communication with one or more components associated with the source of benefit composition 10 . The heating band 40 can be associated with the benefit composition through direct contact, indirect contact, or a combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of components of a fabric article treating device that may be associated with a benefit composition include: reservoir 10, conduit 20, discharge point (eg, nozzle 50), or combinations thereof.

Additionally, the heater band 40 may utilize a power source 100, such as one or more batteries, a household power source, and/or the like. When using a battery as the power source 100, a high voltage power source 200 can also be used if additional current is desired.

Typical materials for the heater band include, but are not limited to, copper, nickel, nichrome (an alloy of nickel and chromium), stainless steel, and the like. In one non-limiting embodiment, the benefit composition is heated from about 30°C to about 70°C by a heating ring.

C. Exothermic reaction

In another embodiment of the present invention, the benefit composition may be heated by means of an exothermic reaction. The exothermic reaction can occur within the benefit composition, or at a location adjacent to, but still in heat communication with, the benefit composition.

The exothermic composition can be disposable or reusable. The reusable exothermic composition may comprise a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate or the like, which can be regenerated by re-dissolving the crystals into solution via heat.

The exothermic composition can be contained in a container. Suitable container materials for exothermic reactive compositions include, but are not limited to, polypropylene, polyvinyl acetate, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, and the like. The thickness of these materials can be from about 0.1 mm to about 30 mm.

1. Metal oxidation exothermic reaction

The exothermic reaction of metal oxidation requires several components to complete the electrochemical reaction: anode, cathode, water, oxygen and preferably one or more electrolytes. In addition, exothermic reactive components include a liquid and a solid which are usually stored separately until ready for use. Although the anode and cathode are generally solid, the electrolyte can be either in solid form or partially in aqueous form.

The anode comprises a source of a metal, non-limiting examples of which include: metal powders of iron, copper, magnesium, chromium, manganese, aluminum, zinc, or combinations thereof. The metal source can have a small particle size, but can have a large reactive surface area. A suitable average particle size is from about 20 μm to about 1000 μm. For example, the metal source can be iron powder and comprise from about 30% to about 80% by weight of the solid composition.

The cathode for the exothermic reaction may comprise activated carbon, non-activated carbon, or combinations thereof. The carbon used for the cathode can be derived from but not limited to: coconut shell, wood, charcoal, bone, etc. The cathode can be an inactive carbon, having a small particle size and a large reactive surface area, present at about 3% to about 20% by weight of the solid composition. Suitable activated carbons will typically have an average particle size of from about 20 μm to about 1000 μm and are commercially available from Westvaco of Covington, Virginia under the trade designation Nu Char.

The exothermic component may also include one or more electrolytes to further facilitate the reaction by providing electrical conduction between the anode and cathode. The electrolyte may be dry and in the same container as the anode and/or cathode, or the electrolyte may comprise part of an aqueous solution stored separately from the metal powder (anode). Suitable electrolytes are salts of metals and include, but are not limited to: alkali metal salts, alkaline earth metal salts, and transition metal salts, including sulfates, chlorides, carbonates, acetates, nitrates, nitrites, Sulfites, Chlorates, etc. Non-limiting examples of electrolytes include: ferric sulfate, potassium sulfate, sodium sulfate, manganese sulfate, magnesium sulfate, cupric chloride, cuprous chloride, potassium chloride, sodium chloride, and the like. The electrolyte may comprise sodium chloride, for example, as a dry powder contained in the anode at a concentration of from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of the solid composition. When the electrolyte is in an aqueous solution, its concentration may range from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight in the aqueous solution.

To gradually replenish the anode with water and/or electrolyte solution, the exothermic component may also include one or more absorbent materials. The absorber material can be in the same container as the anode and cathode or in a separate container or a combination of both. Non-limiting examples of absorbent materials include: vermiculite, porous silicates, carboxycellulose salts, wood powder, and/or flour, cotton cloth with high surface area, and the like. Water retaining materials may comprise from about 0.1% to about 30% water by weight of the solid composition.

In one embodiment, the metal oxide components are provided in two or more containers. The first container will typically include an anode and a cathode and optionally absorbing material. When the electrolyte is dry, it may be present in the same container as the anode and/or cathode, and the second container may contain an aqueous solution. In a variation of this embodiment, the electrolyte may be in an aqueous solution and stored in a container separate from the anode, cathode and optional absorbent material. The aqueous solution may be water or an aqueous electrolyte solution and may typically be present in an amount of from about 10% to about 50% by weight of the total exothermic components. The second container may be stored in the same compartment as the first container and may be a pouch that can be pierced by a sharp object such as a pin to initiate the reaction. Addition of the contents of the first and second containers can be accomplished through a frangible pouch whereby the exothermic reaction can be initiated after the seal between the two containers is broken.

In an alternative embodiment, the solid metal oxide component may be provided in a container. The container may include an anode, a cathode, a solid electrolyte and optionally a water absorbent material. The user of the device then initiates the exothermic reaction by adding water to the composition.

2. Saturated salt exothermic reaction :

In another variation of this embodiment, the exothermic reaction may be a reusable supercooled saturated salt solution associated with a metal reaction trigger. Saturated saline solution and metal trigger can be contained in the same container. When the metal trigger is bent by the user, it can then initiate the crystallization of salt, thereby generating heat. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the flexing of the metal strip provides a slight duration along the slit or crack to initiate the crystallization process. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials for the trigger include: ferrous materials, beryllium-copper alloys, etc., and which contain numerous slits or cracks. In one non-limiting example, the container contains a saturated solution of sodium acetate and the ferrous metal trigger is bent, thereby generating heat in the range of about 35°C to about 75°C.

Non-limiting examples of suitable salts for saturated saline solutions include: sodium acetate, calcium nitrate tetrahydrate, and the like. The saturated saline solution may comprise sodium acetate and water in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 2:1 by weight. The solution is usually made by putting water, salt, and a metal trigger into a bag that is then sealed. The contents of the bag are then heated to about 60°C or higher (for sodium acetate) to bring the salt into solution. Thereafter, the bag may be supercooled. As used herein, "supercooling" means cooling a substance below its freezing point without solidification and/or crystallization.

After use, the saturated salt composition can then be regenerated by heating the solution to slightly above the melting point of the crystals to redissolve the crystals. In one non-limiting example, the sodium acetate composition is regenerated by heating the composition to 60°C or higher so that crystals produced by the exothermic reaction are redissolved. Non-limiting suitable methods of reheating the solution include microwaves, immersion in boiling water, and the like.

3. In situ exothermic reaction

In another variation, the exothermic reaction component may include the benefit composition itself, whereby the benefit composition acts as a component of the exothermic reaction. As used herein, the phrase "in situ exothermic reaction" refers to a composition that consists of the benefit composition itself and that is dispensed by the fabric article treating device such that the composition is dispensed into the interior of the fabric article drying device and/or or on fabric products. In situ exothermic reactions involve a solute and a solvent, where the solvent is typically (but not always) aqueous in nature. The addition of the solvent can occur simultaneously with, or before and/or after, the addition of the solute whereby heat is provided by an exothermic reaction. The addition of the solvent can occur prior to the addition of the solute and within the source of the benefit composition. In alternative embodiments, the addition of solutes and solvents can be performed externally to the source of the benefit composition, and can be added to the source subsequently. In another embodiment, the solute and solvent are contained in separate reservoirs (the source of the benefit composition), wherein the solute and solvent are delivered to a common conduit and the two or more components are mixed. The amount of solvent in the reaction may be present in an amount from about 50% to about 99.9% by weight and is typically (but not always) aqueous in nature.

Non-limiting examples of suitable exothermic reactions involving the addition of water to a system include: dissolution, hydration, dissociation of acids, and the like. The exothermic reaction may have an enthalpy of 1 kJ/mole when measured at 25°C, or preferably 5 kJ/mole or less at 25°C. - The enthalpy of the reaction can usually be obtained by subtracting the total enthalpy of the reactants from the total enthalpy of the products, which can be found in any suitable reference book known to those of ordinary skill in the art, such as "The Handbook of Chemistry and Physics", "Perry's Chemical Engineer's Handbook" and so on.

Examples of exothermic dissolution reactions generally involve the addition of one or more solutes to a solvent, the solutes being present in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 50% by weight of the composition. Solutes can be solids, gases, liquids, or combinations thereof. In alternative embodiments, the solute may be added after the addition of the solvent (eg water), but may also be added at the same time as and/or before the addition of the solvent. Suitable non-limiting examples of solutes that are exothermic in water include: ammonia (gaseous), sodium hydroxide, lithium bromide, sodium acetate, potassium acetate, potassium hydroxide, zinc chloride, and the like.

Examples of exothermic reactions without water include, but are not limited to, the addition of lauric acid to carbon tetrachloride, urethane to chloroform, urethane to methanol, acetone to acetic acid, heptane to isobutanol, etc. wait. In an alternative mode of operation, the temperature of the clothes drying unit is below the flash point of the solvent and/or solute.

An exothermic dilution reaction involves, on the other hand, adding additional solvent to the composition, thereby generating heat. Addition of an aqueous solvent (such as water) to the acid can be used for exothermic dilution reactions. Non-limiting examples of suitable acids include: nitric acid, sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, maleic acid, picric acid, acetic acid, and combinations thereof.

D. Thermoelectric module

Heating of the beneficial composition can also be accomplished by using a thermoelectric module, for example by an inverted Peltier module. The phrase "inverted Peltier module" as used herein refers to the use of a Peltier module in which the heat sink is in heat communication with the benefit composition and/or one or more components of the fabric article treating device associated with the benefit composition , non-limiting examples of such components include: sources of benefit composition, conduits, reservoirs, nozzles, and the like. In general, the reverse Peltier module/effect is obtained by applying a voltage across one module, thereby moving heat from one side of the module to the other through the movement of electrons. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the Peltier effect operates in the following manner as illustrated in Figure 13:

1) a module 500 comprising at least one conductive material, preferably a negative-type semiconducting material 530, and at least one dissimilar conductive material, preferably a positive-type semiconducting material 540, electrically connected in series, But connected thermally in parallel, and sandwiched between two ceramic substrates 510 that are placed between a component to be heated and a heating source such as a fabric drying device (not shown); Direct current at junction 520e causes electrons to flow to positively doped semiconductor material 540, which absorbs heat at electrical junction 520d between the component to be cooled and the junction between positively doped semiconductor material 540 and negatively doped semiconductor material 530 3) electrons then flow to the electrical joint 520c through the negative-type doped semiconductor material 530, so heat is transferred to the second joint between the negative-type doped semiconductor material 530 and another positive-type doped semiconductor material 540; and 4) heat is transferred from the second joint 520c to the heat sink 550, which is in thermal communication with the source of the benefit composition (or another component associated with the benefit composition), whereby heat is transferred from the drying device to the source of the benefit composition. Composition associated components.

Each module 500 for the Peltier effect is composed of at least one conductive material and another different conductive material. Although the conductive material may include different metals, in a preferred embodiment, module 500 includes at least one negatively doped semiconductor material 530 and at least one positively doped semiconductor material 540 . The negative and positive doped semiconductor materials are electrically connected in series, but thermally connected in parallel. Furthermore, the semiconductors ( 540 and 530 ) and their electrical connections 520 are bridged between the two ceramic substrates 510 . The first ceramic substrate 510 is in thermal communication with the component to be cooled and the semiconductor material (540 and 530). The second ceramic substrate 510 is in thermal communication with the semiconductor material (540 and 530) and a heat source. The heat sink 550 is further in thermal communication with one or more components associated with the benefit composition, upon which an electrical current is applied to the semiconducting material, and the accumulated heat is carried to the benefit composition and/or a device in thermal communication with the benefit composition one or more components of . For greater heating effect, more than one module 500 may be used if stacked in parallel.

In general, the semiconductor material is usually, but not necessarily, bismuth telluride, lead telluride, silicon germanium, and/or a bismuth-antimony alloy. The semiconductor material may comprise a p-type and n-type crystalline bismuth telluride in equal and discrete ratios, although other ratios are equally effective. As used herein, "N-type" semiconductor materials are negative-type, which have more electrons than are required to produce an ideal molecular lattice structure; conversely, "P-type" semiconductor materials are positive-type, which have more electrons than are required to produce an ideal molecular lattice structure Electrons that require fewer electrons for the structure. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the excess electrons of the N-type material and the "missing" electrons (or holes) of the P-type material facilitate the transfer of thermal energy from one end of the semiconductor to the other.

The heat sink 550 is typically finned in a manner that maximizes the surface area of the material. The heat sink can be constructed of aluminum, copper, silver, etc., although other conductive materials can also be used.

The DC power source can be any power source, such as household power, batteries, and the like. Typically, the power applied to the module can be around 12V, although higher voltage values can be used if greater heat transfer is desired.

Referring to FIG. 7 , an inverted Peltier module 310 is positioned between the benefit composition source 10 and the interior panel of the door of the device 1 . The heat sink of the Peltier module 310 is positioned adjacent to the source of benefit composition 10 whereby heat is subsequently transferred to the source of benefit composition 10 from the fabric article drying device (not shown). In this embodiment of the invention, the surfaces of the fabric article treating device 1 are constructed of a thermally conductive material, preferably metal. The Peltier module 310 may be mounted on other components of the device 1 associated with the beneficial composition, non-limiting examples of which include the nozzle 50 or the conduit 20 . One example of a thermoelectric module utilizing the Peltier effect is module 6302/127/060AX, which is available from Ferrotec America Corporation of Nashua, New Hampshire.

power supply

Referring to Fig. 2, the fabric article treating appliance 1 may comprise a power source 100 for powering the components of the fabric article treating appliance 1 . Non-limiting examples of these components include: electrical circuitry 80, motor 60 for dispensing component 30, and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of suitable power sources 100 include: batteries of the reusable or disposable type, solar energy, a source of household electricity, and the like. When using batteries as the power source 100, one or more batteries may be rechargeable or disposable. Suitable and readily available batteries include, but are not limited to: alkaline batteries, lithium batteries, and the like. An example of a suitable alkaline storage battery is the Energizer No. E95, 1.5 VZn/MnO ₂ D Cell battery, available from Eveready Battery Company of St. Louis, Missouri.

Beneficial Composition Source

The fabric article treating device 1 also includes one or more benefit composition sources 10 associated with the device 1 to provide a benefit composition for dispensing into the fabric article drying device. The benefit composition source 10 can be a container, box, sachet, catheter, household hose, and the like. Additionally, source of benefit composition 10 may be a refillable and/or non-refillable container within which a limited amount of liquid may be held. In another embodiment, the source of the benefit composition can be both domestic water pipes and refillable and/or non-refillable containers. The source of benefit composition may be fixedly attached to fabric article drying appliance 10 or may be removably attached.

Source 10 may include a first reservoir for containing the benefit composition, and may additionally include more than one reservoir such that the contents of the first reservoirs are dispensed simultaneously or individually.

The source 10 may also be constructed of rigid, semi-rigid and/or flexible materials. The source of benefit composition 10 should consist primarily of rigid or semi-rigid materials, and these embodiments may also include a drain member to allow existing benefit composition to flow to the dispensing member 30 .

Assign parts

Dispensing member 30 may be motorized or non-motorized. Typically, a motorized pump can be utilized as the dispensing part 30 of the fabric article treating device 1 . One non-limiting example of a suitable motorized pump is the use of a hydraulic pump such as a peristaltic pump. Non-limiting motor-driven pumping mechanisms that may be used include gear, diaphragm, centrifugal, or piston pumps. Typically, a suitable pump will have an operating pressure range of about 1 to about 2,000 kPas, although pressures in the range of 50 and 1500 kPas, and/or about 140 to about 1050 kPas and/or 100 to 500 kPas may also be used.

Referring to Figure 4, the dispensing unit 30 may be non-motorized to conserve energy from the power source. Non-limiting examples of non-motorized dispensing devices include: springs, pressurized reservoirs, elastomeric containers, shape memory alloys, gravity feed mechanisms, capillary action, propellants, syringes, gases (pre-pressurized and/or in situ The two generated) and so on. A suitable embodiment of a non-motorized dispensing device 30 is an LPD series pressure pump available from PAR Technologies LLC of Hampton, Virginia.

High Voltage Power Supply (HVPS)

Referring to FIG. 3 , the apparatus may also include a high voltage power supply (HVPS) 200 which may optionally be used to deliver electrical current to power the heater band 40 . Power source 100 is typically (but not always) one or more batteries with a voltage of 9V or less, and the heating band may or may not require additional voltage for the desired temperature. A suitable miniature stabilized high voltage power supply 200 is a model in the C series, such as the C50, C60 or C80, available from EMCO High Voltage Corporation, Sutter Creek, CA. Other suitable high voltage power sources 200 include piezoelectric transformers, which utilize a unique mechanical energy storage system to convert electrical power. These piezoelectric transformers are used in particular when ultrasonic spraying is used. Piezoelectric transformers are commercially available from Fuji & Co., Japan.

nozzle

Referring to Figures 1 to 9 and 12, the fabric article treating device 1 may also include and typically includes a nozzle 50 through which the benefit composition is passed during delivery to the fabric article and/or the interior region of the fabric article drying device. .

Nozzle 50 may be an atomizing nozzle. Atomization of the benefit composition may be accomplished using any suitable spraying device, such as hydraulic nozzles, sonic nebulizers, high pressure spray nozzles, etc., to deliver the benefit composition. Atomization can be achieved using a lower volume air pressure atomizing nozzle and/or simple orifice. For example, commercially available spray nozzles (models 850, 1050, 1250, 1450, and 1650) available from Spray Systems, Inc. of Pomona, Calif. are suitable. In an alternative embodiment, the composition may be delivered through more than one spray nozzle.

In some embodiments, spray nozzle 50 may use a pressure swirl atomizer, similar to that used in trigger nozzles, but may incorporate a fan sprayer or an impingement or screen foam generator. One example of a suitable atomizing nozzle is a pressure vortex atomizing nozzle model DU-3813 manufactured by Seaquist Dispensing of Cary, Illinois. In another embodiment, the composition is delivered by a pressurized spray system.

Optionally, filters and/or filtration techniques can be employed to filter the benefit composition, if desired. Such filtration may be necessary when using hot benefit compositions as repeated heating of the composition may result in concentration of the composition, which may result in particle formation. Non-limiting examples of filters and/or filtration techniques include: employing a filter in the treatment device 1 prior to the nozzle 50; filtering the benefit composition prior to dispensing into the benefit composition reservoir 10; Reservoir 10 is preceded by centrifugation of the benefit composition; etc.; or combinations thereof.

In an alternative embodiment, nozzle 50 includes a filter (not shown) in front of the orifice, which is intended to reduce the likelihood of clogging the orifice. For its cleaning and replacement, the nozzle 50 may be of the form, either separate from the rest of the device or as a unit, the filter and spray head being removable. The filter may have a pore size equal to or smaller than the maximum outlet diameter of the nozzle orifice.

signal component

Still further, the device may include a signaling component to communicate with a user of the device, such as a visual, audible, vibratory signal or a combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of signaling components include: flashing lights, colored lights (non-limiting examples of which include green/red lights), beeps, chimes, bells, and vibrations. A signaling component may be used to indicate the condition of the device, which in turn may require the user to activate a component of the device.

See Figures 7 and 8, which illustrate a non-limiting embodiment of a signal component. The LED lights 280 found on the outer surface of the closure structure of the fabric article drying appliance may be of different colors to indicate an operating state: in particular a green LED light indicating that the appliance is in operation, or possibly a flashing red light indicating Low battery status.

beneficial composition

The benefit composition may comprise one or more fabric article actives and may be a cleaning, wrinkle removing, finishing and/or deodorant composition, and the like. Additionally, the benefit composition may be in liquid, solid, gaseous physical form, or combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of fabric article actives include solvents, surfactants, wrinkle removers, antistatic agents, antishrinkage agents, antimicrobial agents, wetting agents, crystal modifiers, soil release agents, colorants, thickeners, Whitening agents, fragrances, odor reducers/deodorants, deodorants/freshers, stain repellants, color enhancers, starches, softeners and adhesives.

The benefit composition may comprise water, surfactants, fragrances, preservatives, bleaches, auxiliary cleaning agents, anti-shrinkage agents, solvents, anti-wrinkle agents, antimicrobial agents, wetting agents, crystal modifiers, and mixtures thereof.

Typical benefit compositions herein can include at least about 50% water, preferably at least about 65%, more preferably at least about 80% water by weight.

One challenge of spraying benefit compositions into fabric article drying appliances is the possibility of the benefit composition clogging the nozzle during use. Several approaches can be used to avoid this blockage, including but not limited to using single-phase solutions, including higher levels of humectants or other moisture-retaining ingredients, hydrophilic solvents, using film-softening ingredients with polymers, and combining beneficial Add hygroscopic salt to the food.

Referring now to the drawings, in particular Figure 6, there is illustrated a fabric article treating device 1 for treating fabric articles in accordance with the present invention. The fabric article treating device 1 communicates with the fabric article drying device 260 in a manner such that one or more benefit compositions are dispensed into the interior 270 of the fabric product drying device 260 and/or are distributed to a The interior 270 of the fabric article. In one embodiment, the contact occurs while the fabric article is in motion. In another embodiment, the contacting can also occur while the fabric article is not in motion. In another embodiment, contacting can occur at one point in time when the fabric article is in motion and at another point in time when it is not in motion. Fabrics can be handled wet or dry.

In general, the fabric article treating appliance 1 can be removably or permanently attached to the interior 270 of the fabric article drying appliance 260 . Non-limiting examples of possible attachment areas include the closure structure 110 of the fabric article drying appliance 260, the drum of the fabric article drying appliance 260 (if one is present), the rear wall, and the like. Non-limiting examples of attachment components include: suction cups, hooks, straps, adhesives, ^Velcro® , magnets, and the like. In another embodiment as illustrated in Figures 7 to 8, - the fabric article treating device 1 may be integrated in a readily detachable closure structure 110 suitable for use with a fabric article drying device.

Referring to Figures 1 to 2, there is illustrated a fabric article treating device 1 for treating fabric articles in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. In this embodiment, the reservoir 10 is constructed of thermally conductive material whereby the benefit composition is heated via a heat source such as a fabric article drying device (not shown). In one non-limiting embodiment, reservoir 10 is constructed of a suitable material having a thermal conductivity of 10 W/m°C at 25°C, such as a vulcanized polyphenylene material sold under the trade name ^CoolPoly® RS012, which can Available from Cool Polymers, Warwick, Rhode Island. In a typical operation, the fabric article treating appliance 1 is activated once the fabric article drying appliance is operating in a prescribed manner, and subsequently and/or at the beginning of a treatment cycle. In one embodiment, the treatment device 1 is activated after the fabric article drying device has been operated, preferably at least about 5 minutes after the drying cycle has started.

The fabric article treating device 1 can be activated by depressing the switch 21 which then activates the motor 60 of the pump 30 . Motor 60 is usually, but not always, powered by power source 100, which typically includes one or more batteries. The power supply 100 may be connected to the motor 60 by wires 70 and an optional electronic board 80 for controlling the motor 60 .

Once pump 30 is activated, heated benefit composition is drawn from reservoir 10 through conduit 20 to nozzle 50 . The inner diameter of the catheter may be in the range of about 10 mm or less, and/or about 5 mm or less. Optionally, conduit 20 also includes a filter prior to nozzle 50 . The pore size of the filter may be equal to or smaller than the widest opening of the nozzle 50 .

Nozzle 50 may be a fluid atomizing nozzle and/or even a simple orifice through which the benefit composition is dispensed within the holding volume of the clothes drying device. A suitable pressure vortex nebulizer is available from Seaquist Dispensing LLC of Cary, Illinois under model number DU-3813.

In another embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 3 to 4 the operation of the apparatus is carried out in a similar manner to that of the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 2. In this embodiment, heating of the benefit composition is accomplished by means of a heating ring 40 located in the reservoir 10 . A heating ring 40 may be placed within, or in thermal communication with, any part of the device with which the benefit composition is associated. Non-limiting examples of components that may be used in connection with the benefit composition of the present invention include: the reservoir 10, the conduit 20, the discharge point (eg, the nozzle 50), or combinations thereof.

In this embodiment, power is provided by one or more batteries 100, and optionally may be provided by a high voltage power source 200 which powers a heating band 40 which subsequently heats the benefit composition.

The embodiment shown in Figure 4 operates in a similar and more economical manner to the embodiment of Figure 3 . In order to conserve energy from the power source 100, the dispensing member 30 is non-motorized, suitable non-limiting examples of which include spring driven devices, gravity fed pumps, and the like. Furthermore, the heater band 40 may be powered only by the battery 100, no high voltage power supply is required.

The embodiment illustrated in Figure 5 heats the benefit composition via an exothermic reaction. In this embodiment, heat release bag 160 may be bent and then added through reservoir opening 140 to provide heat to the benefit composition in storage tank 10 . Non-limiting examples of exothermic bags include those for metal oxidation reactions, saturated salt solutions, and the like. In an alternative variation of this embodiment, an exothermic reaction can be generated in situ, wherein the solute is added directly to the benefit composition in reservoir 10, thereby generating heat. The addition of the solute can occur before, after, or simultaneously with the addition of the solvent, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the solute and solvent may be mixed prior to being placed into the storage tank 10 and subsequently dispensed therein.

The embodiment depicted in FIG. 7 heats the benefit composition by means of a thermoelectric module 310 . Thermoelectric module 310 uses a power source 100 such as a household electrical source and is positioned such that the module's heat sink is in thermal communication with one or more sources of beneficial composition 10 . Furthermore, the inner walls of the device consist of a thermal material such as steel. Heat is transferred from the fabric article containment volume of the fabric article drying device to a thermoelectric module 310, such as a Peltier module, which then transfers the heat to the benefit composition. The thermoelectric module may also be in thermal communication with other components associated with the beneficial composition, non-limiting examples of which include: conduit 20, discharge points (eg, nozzle 50), and the like. One example of a module employing the Peltier effect is model 6302/127/060AX, available from Ferrotec America Corporation, Nashua, New Hampshire.

One advantage of the embodiment depicted by Figure 7 is that the fabric article treating device 1 is integrated into the closure structure of the drying device. By simply unscrewing the existing closure and attaching the fabric article treating appliance 1 of the present invention, the fabric article treating appliance 1 can be easily exchanged with the door of an existing appliance. This provides the convenience of an integrated fabric article treating appliance, yet does not require complex and/or expensive retrofitting of existing appliances.

This embodiment also provides a method to signal the user of the fabric article treating device 1 via the LED light 280 or the reservoir window 290 . For example, LED light 280 may display green light to indicate an operating condition, or flashing red light to indicate hazardous operating conditions, such as low amounts of beneficial composition, which may lead to unsatisfactory results. The level of benefit composition can also be sensed through the reservoir window 290, which can also be identified with a dosing indicium indicating the number of uses remaining. In addition, the temperature of the composition can also be displayed.

The embodiment of FIG. 8 is similar in appearance to the embodiment of FIG. 7 and also provides heat to the benefit composition in a manner similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2 . The embodiment of FIG. 8 includes an access panel 300, an interior wall 230 of the fabric article treating device comprised of a thermally conductive material, such as steel, and a source of benefit composition 10 comprised of a thermally conductive material, such as having a thermal conductivity of 25° C. A 10 W/m°C vulcanized polyphenylene material available under the trade designation ^CoolPoly® RS012 from Cool Polymers of Warwick, Rhode Island. In this embodiment, heat from the operation of the fabric article drying device is transferred to the interior wall 230 of the fabric article treating device 1, to the source 10 of the benefit composition, which thereby provides heat to the benefit composition.

9 to 12 depict an alternative embodiment of a fabric article treating device 1 . The fabric article treating appliance 1 comprises two enclosures or enclosures, an inner or inner enclosure and an outer or outer enclosure. The inner cabinet 230 is located inside the fabric article drying appliance. The outer cabinet 220 is located on the exterior of the fabric article drying appliance. The inner cabinet 230 and the outer cabinet 220 of the fabric article treating device 1 communicate with each other. Non-limiting examples of communication between the inner housing 230 and the outer housing 220 include electrical communication (where electrical signals are transmitted between the inner and outer housings) and ingredient transfer communication (i.e., where the beneficial composition is communicated between the outer and inner housings). transport), and heat exchange (i.e., wherein a temperature difference is transferred between an outer enclosure and an inner enclosure, one non-limiting example of which is where a beneficial composition is heated in one enclosure and transferred to another enclosure) . The inner case 230 and the outer case 220 may be connected to each other. Non-limiting implementations of connecting the inner and outer housings include flat cables, wires and/or conduits 340 (one non-limiting example of which is a conduit for transferring the benefit composition between the outer and inner housings). The inner cabinet 230 can be secured to the closure structure of the fabric drying appliance with the fastening strap 210 .

The outer cabinet 220 can be mounted on the outer surface of the door of the fabric article drying appliance, however it can also be mounted on any outer surface, non-limiting examples of which include: side walls, top walls, outer sides of top hatches Surfaces, etc., including walls or other household structures that are separate from the fabric drying appliance. In addition, the inner cabinet 230 may be mounted on any interior surface of the fabric article drying appliance, examples of which include, but are not limited to: the interior surface of a door, the interior surface 125 and the exterior surface of a closed door 110 as shown in FIG. Between 127, the drum of the fabric drying device, the rear wall, the inner surface of the top cover, etc.

The inner and outer housings can be constructed of materials familiar to those of ordinary skill in the art. Non-limiting examples of such materials include polymeric materials including, but not limited to, polyurethane, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene, and combinations thereof, and metals, including, but not limited to, porcelain metals.

The outer shroud 220 may be permanently mounted to the exterior surface, or releasably mounted to the exterior surface. Likewise, the hood 20 can be permanently mounted to the interior surface, or releasably mounted to the interior surface.

The inner case 230 and the outer case 220 communicate with each other. The inner case 230 and the outer case 220 may be connected to each other. Non-limiting examples of connecting the inner housing 220 to the outer housing 230 may include flat cables 340 (also sometimes referred to as "ribbon cables") as shown in FIGS. A wire or bundle of wires, a conduit (one non-limiting example of which is a conduit for the beneficial composition), or a combination thereof within a sheath of material. A woven or non-woven sheath may also be used as a means of joining the inner casing 230 and the outer casing 220 . Inner enclosure 230 and outer enclosure 220 may be used to provide gravity-balanced components to reduce unnecessary strain on electrical wires and/or enclosure wiring. A typical weight ratio between inner housing 230 and outer housing 220 is generally about 1:14 to about 14:1. Inner housing 230 and outer housing 220 may also be in electrical and/or fluid communication. There is also a reservoir 10 of the benefit composition, means for heating the benefit composition, a pump 30 and a discharge nozzle 50 . Pump 30 may include a motor 60 . A power supply 200 may also be included. Additional electronic components 80 may also be included.

In non-limiting examples using a fabric article treating appliance as shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 6 , one or more fabric articles may be placed within interior 270 of fabric article drying appliance 260 . The operator simply depresses the on/off switch 21 on the fabric article treating device 1 for a short period of time. Drying unit 260 is activated in the manner specified by the manufacturer. After a preset period of time or after environmental conditions have started, the on/off switch 21 activates the electronics 80 of the device to connect the battery 100 and the motor 60 of the pump via the wire 70 .

The benefit composition is delivered from reservoir 10 through dispensing member 30 and conduit 20 and is discharged from nozzle 50 into fabric article treating device 260 . The benefit composition may be discharged from nozzle 50 as a mist. Generally, the time to apply the benefit composition can be between about 0.5 and about 120 minutes, depending on the period and load selected. Air temperature during processing may range from about 30°C to about 80°C, more preferably from about 40°C to about 65°C. An exhaust duct may be connected to the duct for exhaust air to escape from the user's home, as in conventional clothes dryer applications. The conduit can be provided with a closure member so that the conduit can be closed during the step of applying the benefit composition.

The particular benefit composition selected for use in the present methods can vary widely with the particular benefit desired. However, in some modes of operation, the benefit composition will comprise ingredients that are effective on various types of fabric articles. For example, the benefit composition may be suitable for "dry cleaning" fabric articles and cotton dress shirts that typically only require significant wrinkle removal operations after conventional laundering operations (ie, home wash and dry cycles).

Non-verbal prompts may also be present inside the fabric article treating device to assist the user in selecting the desired benefit composition, treatment cycle, etc. and may be present on one or more of the following: the device, the benefit composition container, Instructions for use and other such articles associated with the fabric article treating system. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that these non-verbal cues simplify operation of the fabric article treating system and thus provide convenience to users of the system. Non-verbal cues may be visual, auditory, tactile or vibratory signals or may include a combination of these signals. Non-limiting examples of non-verbal cues include: red/green lights (stop/run lights), windows on reservoirs indicating fluid levels, icons, beeps, ringing bells, rubber grips, and the like. One example of a visual cue is a battery icon present on a device display, alerting the user that the battery needs to be replaced. In another embodiment, the tactile cue may include a rubberized portion of the device, indicating to the user where the device can be comfortably gripped.

All documents cited in this Detailed Description of the Invention are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety or in part. The citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is available as prior art to the present invention.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims (14)

1. system that is used to handle fabric, the described system that is used to handle fabric comprises:

A) textile article drying device; With

B) fabric article treating device, it is detachably connected on the described textile article drying device, it is characterized in that described fabric article treating device comprises that at least one is used for heating the parts of advantageous compositions and comprises a distribution member that is used for distributing advantageous compositions.

2. the system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said fabric article treating device are the stand-alone device of separating.

3. the described system of each claim as described above, wherein said textile article drying device also comprises closing structure, thus described fabric article treating device and described closing structure become one.

4. the described system of each claim as described above, described system also comprises advantageous compositions, wherein said advantageous compositions is heated by exothermic reaction, and the enthalpy that preferably wherein said exothermic reaction has at 25 ℃ is-1kJ/ mole or littler, and wherein exothermic reaction is:

A) burning reaction, preferably wherein said burning reaction comprises at least a metal, and wherein said metal is iron, copper, aluminium, magnesium, manganese, zinc or their combination;

B) saturated salt reaction, preferably wherein said saturated salt reaction comprises sodium acetate and water;

C) reaction in-situ; Or

D) above-mentioned a), b) and combination c).

5. the described system of each claim as described above, wherein the burning reaction also comprises at least a electrolyte, wherein said electrolyte is:

A) alkali metal salt, alkali salt, transition metal salt or their combination; Or

B) wherein said burning reaction also comprises the source of carbon, and the source of wherein said carbon is activity, inactive or their combination.

6. device that removably connects, described device is used for being connected on the textile article drying device, and the described device that removably connects comprises:

I) at least one advantageous compositions source;

Ii) at least one is used for heating the parts of advantageous compositions; With

Iii) be used for described advantageous compositions is assigned to distribution member in the textile article drying device.

7. device as claimed in claim 6, described device also comprises power supply, wherein said power supply comprises:

A) one or more batteries, wherein said battery are disposable, chargeable or their combination; Or

B) source of household electricity; Or

C) described item a) and b) combination.

8. as claim 6 and 7 described devices, wherein said advantageous compositions source is reservoir, box, sack or their combination.

9. as each described device in the claim 6 to 8, wherein said distribution member is a pump, and described pump comprises:

A) conduit, wherein said conduit comprise inlet and floss hole; With

B) nozzle, described nozzle are connected to the described floss hole of described conduit;

The described inlet of wherein said conduit communicates with the source of described advantageous compositions, so that described advantageous compositions is assigned to described nozzle by described conduit from the source of described advantageous compositions, thereby among described advantageous compositions is assigned to described textile article drying device from described nozzle.

10. as each described device in the claim 6 to 9, the described parts that wherein are used for heating described advantageous compositions comprise: a) heating collar;

B) Heat Conduction Material, it is located in the heat passage between described textile article drying device and the described fabric article treating device, and the thermal conductivity that preferably wherein said Heat Conduction Material has is at least about 5W/m* ℃ at 25 ℃;

C) electrothermal module; Or d) above-mentioned a), b) or combination c).

11. a method that is used to handle fabric, described method comprises:

A) provide fabric article treating device, wherein said fabric article treating device comprises:

I) at least one advantageous compositions source;

Ii) at least one is used for heating the parts of advantageous compositions; With

Iii) be used for described advantageous compositions is assigned to distribution member in the textile article drying device;

B) provide the textile article drying device;

C) pending fabric is added in the described textile article drying device;

D) described fabric article treating device is detachably connected on the described textile article drying device; E) heating advantageous compositions; With

F) advantageous compositions with heating is assigned in the described textile article drying device.

12. method as claimed in claim 11, wherein said heating steps also comprises provides exothermic compositions, so that described exothermic compositions contacts described advantageous compositions, thereby with after described exothermic compositions contacts, the temperature of described advantageous compositions is enhanced.

13. as claim 11 and 12 described methods, described method also comprises the operation instruction that exothermic compositions is provided, so that described advantageous compositions is heated.

14. as each described method in the claim 11 to 13, described method comprises that also the user to described system provides one or more non-verbal cues, wherein said non-verbal cue can offer described user, wherein step (e) before, during step (e), in step (e) afterwards or their combination, described user's operation and/or adjust the parts of described fabric article treating system.

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