GB2596084A

GB2596084A - Fluid application System

Info

Publication number: GB2596084A
Application number: GB2009142.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Killi Imre
Original assignee: Motorscrubber Ltd
Current assignee: Motorscrubber Ltd
Priority date: 2020-06-16
Filing date: 2020-06-16
Publication date: 2021-12-22
Also published as: GB202009142D0

Abstract

A fluid application system 2 for applying a fluid, e.g. disinfectant or detergent to a surface. The system comprises a wearable component 4 configured to be worn by a user and an applicator tool 6 for application of a fluid to a surface. The wearable component is configured to carry a reservoir of fluid 10 for application to a surface. The system comprises a fluid flow path (30, Fig 2) configured to couple said reservoir to the applicator tool for fluid communication there between. The fluid application system comprises a wipes holder 12 for carrying wipes for use with a surface. Also included is a fluid application system (Fig 6) suitable for applying two fluids to a surface, in which the system comprises a wearable component 104 configured to be worn by a user and an applicator tool for application of said two fluids to a surface, the applicator tool 106 characterised in that it comprises a dispensing arrangement 128 for dispensing the first and second fluids, from first and second reservoirs 109, 110.

Description

FLUID APPLICATION SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to a fluid application system for applying a fluid to a surface, particularly but not exclusively to a disinfectant application system for applying a disinfectant to a surface.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

To reduce the spread of disease it is important that surfaces are effectively disinfected to inactivate, destroy and/or reduce the presence of harmful microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, pathogens, and/or other harmful agents. This is of particular importance in the case of communal areas and high contact touch points, such as door handles, light switches, appliance handles (e.g. kettle handle), sink taps, toilet flush handles, office equipment, bannisters/handrails, lift buttons etc. Disinfectant systems are known which can treat large areas quickly, for example disinfectant spray devices, however these systems can result in difficult to reach areas being missed. These missed areas can coincide with high touch point areas, such as the back of door handles, which are important to treat to reduce the spread of disease.

Furthermore, for optimal disinfection of a surface, cleaning of the surface is required prior to disinfection. Accordingly, a surface should be treated with a detergent, the applied detergent washed or wiped away, and then the surface treated with disinfectant, for improved disinfection. This ensures that any dirt or foreign material present on the surface is removed from the surface prior to disinfection. Any dirt or foreign material that remains on the surface could interfere with the effectiveness of the disinfection process.

The process of cleaning followed by disinfection typically requires the use of multiple pieces of equipment. This is inefficient both in terms of the time taken and the amount of equipment which must necessarily be carried from one location to another, to ensure effective cleaning and disinfection.

This disclosure aims to address the problems associated with the prior art to provide complete and optimal disinfection of required surfaces in an efficient manner.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In a first aspect, a fluid application system for applying a fluid to a surface is provided, the system comprising a wearable component configured to be worn by a user and an applicator tool for application of a fluid to a surface, the wearable component being configured to carry a reservoir of fluid for application to a surface, the system comprising a fluid flow path configured to couple said reservoir to the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween, and the fluid application system comprising a wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with a surface.

In other words, the wipes holder is configured for supporting wipes for use with or treatment of a surface.

The fluid application system disclosed herein provides a complete system for disinfecting an area. The applicator tool can be used to apply fluid to the majority of surfaces in a space, however, depending on the type of applicator tool used, there are likely to be regions that cannot be treated by the applicator tool alone.

For example, in the case where the applicator tool is a spray device configured to apply a fluid from the reservoir to a surface by spraying, there may be surfaces that cannot be reached by the spray, e.g. the rear side of door handles.

For these areas that cannot be treated by the applicator tool, the user can simply remove a wipe from the wipes holder to treat the area. Since the wipes are carried in a wipes holder provided by the system, the wipes are easily accessible to the user for use immediately at the location where required. The user does not have to move to retrieve wipes from another location e.g. a cleaning caddy, cleaning trolley etc., but rather can immediately treat the area required and continue without interruption.

In this way, a complete system for applying fluid to all required surfaces in a given area is provided, which is both time saving and straightforward for the user.

In exemplary embodiments, the fluid is a disinfectant formulated to disinfect or sanitise a surface.

In the case where the fluid application system is a disinfectant application system, it is particularly important that all the required surfaces are treated (i.e. treated by applying disinfectant to the surface) to inactivate, destroy and/or reduce the presence of harmful microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, pathogens, and/or other harmful agents. It is particularly important to ensure that touch points and high contact areas are treated, e.g. door handles, light switches, appliance handles (e.g. kettle handle), sink taps, toilet flush handles, office equipment, bannisters/handrails, lift buttons. Some of these touch points will be difficult or impossible to treat with an applicator tool, e.g. a spray tool, however, such areas can be effectively treated using a wipe or other suitable cloth to apply disinfectant to the area. For example, the wipe may be a non-absorbent wipe which can be used to spread disinfectant from areas treated using the applicator tool to any areas that are difficult to treat using the applicator tool.

The wipes may also be used to spread disinfectant on the areas treated by the applicator tool to ensure complete coverage of the surface with disinfectant.

By providing an accessible wipes holder, convenient disinfection of difficult to treat touch points is provided.

The fluid application system disclosed herein is tailored for use in providing a complete disinfecting solution, to ensure all surfaces and high contact areas are disinfected with convenient touch point disinfection.

In exemplary embodiments, the system comprises one or more wipes carried in wipes holder, wherein the one or more wipes is non-absorbent.

In exemplary embodiments, the system comprises said reservoir configured to be filled with fluid, e.g. disinfectant.

Optionally, the system further comprises a waste wipes holder for disposal of used wipes.

In this way, the user can quickly and easily dispose of used wipes in the dedicated waste wipes holder. This facilitates hygienic use of the system. In particular, where the fluid is a disinfectant and the wipe has been used to treat potentially contaminated surfaces, the wipe can be quickly and easily disposed of, thereby reducing the risk of contamination.

Provision of a waste wipes holder, in combination with the wipes holder and an applicator tool provides a complete system for the treatment of all surfaces in a given area in a convenient and hygienic manner.

Optionally, the wearable component comprises the wipes holder and/or the or a waste wipes holder.

In exemplary embodiments, the wearable component comprises a backpack, a belt for example a utility belt, a utility vest, or any other suitable wearable component.

In exemplary embodiments, the wearable component comprises a belt configured to be worn around a user's body, the wipes holder provided on the belt. In this way, the wipes holder is provided within easy reach of a user when the wearable component is worn, thereby providing a convenient and efficient system. From a health and safety perspective, this reduces the need for the user to overreach in an uncomfortable manner in order to access the wipes.

In exemplary embodiments, the wearable component comprises at least one shoulder strap, wherein the wipes holder is provided on the shoulder strap such that it is within reach of a user when the wearable component is worn. In this way, the wipes holder is provided within easy reach of a user when the wearable component is worn, thereby providing a convenient and efficient system.

In exemplary embodiments, the wearable component comprises a belt configured to be worn around a user's body, the waste wipes holder being provided on the belt. In this way, the waste wipes holder is within easy reach for a user when the wearable component is worn. From a health and safety perspective, this reduces the need for the user to overreach in an uncomfortable manner in order to access the waste wipes holder.

In exemplary embodiments, the wearable component comprises at least one shoulder strap, wherein the waste wipes holder is provided on the shoulder strap such that it is within reach of a user when the wearable component is worn. In this way, the waste wipes holder is within easy reach for a user when the wearable component is worn.

Optionally, the wipes holder is provided in the region of a right hand side of a user's body and the waste wipes holder is provided in the region of a left hand side of a user's body, when the wearable component is worn, or vice versa.

In other words, the wipes holder and waste wipes holder are provided on opposite sides of the wearable component.

In this way, the risk of contaminating unused wipes with used wipes is reduced or eliminated. This provides a more effective treatment solution by spacing apart the wipes holder and the waste wipes holder such that the risk of contamination of unused wipes by used wipes is reduced.

Optionally, the wipes holder and/or the or a waste wipes holder is/are positioned at a front and/or side of a user, when wearing the wearable component.

In this way, the wipes holder and/or the waste wipes holder can be easily accessed by the user when wearing the wearable component. From a health and safety perspective, this reduces the need for the user to overreach in an uncomfortable manner in order to access the wipes holder and/or waste wipes holder.

In exemplary embodiments, the wipes holder is configured to carry a roll or stack of wipes. 15 A roll or stack of wipes is typically arranged to facilitate dispensing of the wipes. For example, in a stack of wipes, adjacent wipes are typically interleaved such that when one wipe is dispensed, the next wipe is presented to the user. In a roll of wipes, adjacent wipes are typically coupled together by a perforated join, which is broken when a wipe is dispensed such that the next wipe is presented to the user.

Optionally, the wipes holder includes a lid comprising an opening for dispensing wipes.

In this way, the risk of contamination of unused wipes is reduced. Further, in some embodiments, the opening is configured for dispensing one wipe at a time, such that dispensing of wipes is facilitated.

Where a roll of wipes is used, the opening may be configured such that the perforations between adjacent wipes are broken when a portion of the next wipe to be dispensed is projecting through the opening. This makes it easier for a user to grab the next wipe to be used.

Where a stack of wipes is used, as a user pulls a wipe through the opening, a portion of the next wipe to be dispensed is also pulled through the opening. This makes it easier for a user to grab the next wipe to be used.

Optionally, the wearable component comprises a reservoir holder for carrying said reservoir.

In other words, the reservoir holder is configured for supporting a reservoir of fluid, e.g. a disinfectant.

In exemplary embodiments, the reservoir holder is provided on the belt, or the shoulder strap, and/or adjacent the belt of the wearable component. In this way, the reservoir holder is provided within easy reach of a user when the wearable component is worn, thereby providing a convenient and efficient system. From a health and safety perspective, this reduces the need for the user to overreach in an uncomfortable manner in order to access the reservoir e.g. for refilling.

In exemplary embodiments, the reservoir may comprise any suitable container, e.g. bottle, a bladder container, or any other suitable container.

The reservoir may have a capacity of between 0.5 litres to 10 litres, e.g. 0.5 to 5 litres, 0.5 to 2 litres, e.g. 1 litre.

Optionally, the wipes holder and/or the or a waste wipes holder and/or the or a reservoir holder is/are configured to be detachable from the wearable component.

In this way, the arrangement of the reservoir holder and/or wipes holder and/or waste wipes holder can be reconfigured for personalised use. This enables a user to tailor the arrangement for comfort and efficiency to save time.

For example, the user may wish to locate the reservoir holder to facilitate refilling of the reservoir when required.

For example, the user may wish to locate the wipes holder and/or waste wipes holder for convenient access.

In exemplary embodiments, the reservoir holder and/or wipes holder and/or waste wipes holder comprise(s) a pocket.

This provides a simple and reliable support for the reservoir and/or unused wipes and/or waste wipes.

In exemplary embodiments, the waste wipes holder comprises a pocket with resilient rim, e.g. elasticated rim.

In this way, used wipes can be more effectively retained in the waste wipes pocket. This also enables the use of a more slim line waste wipes pocket.

Optionally, the applicator tool comprises a spray device for spraying fluid, e.g. an electrostatic spray device.

A spray device is beneficial in achieving an even distribution of fluid e.g. disinfectant, to a surface, thereby providing solid coverage of fluid on a given surface.

In combination with the wipes holder, this gives an effective and complete solution for treating all required surfaces in a given area in a reliable and efficient manner.

Optionally, said reservoir of fluid is a first reservoir of a first fluid for application to a surface, and the system, e.g. the wearable component, is further configured to carry a second reservoir of a second fluid for application to a surface, such that the fluid application system is configured to apply two fluids to a surface.

Optionally, the fluid flow path is a first fluid flow path configured to couple said first reservoir to the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween, and the system comprises a second fluid flow path configured to couple said second reservoir to the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween.

Optionally, the applicator tool comprises a single unit through which at least a portion of the first and second fluid flow paths extend, such that the applicator tool is configured to dispense both the first and second fluids.

Optionally, the wipes holder is configured for carrying two sets of wipes, for example, wherein the wipes holder comprises a first wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with the first fluid a second wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with the second fluid.

Optionally, the system comprises at least one pump for pumping fluid from said reservoir(s) to the applicator tool, wherein the wearable component is configured to carry said at least one pump.

By locating the pump on the wearable component, it is possible for a more lightweight applicator tool to be used since the pump is not located on the applicator tool. This is more comfortable and light weight for the user.

Optionally, the system comprises a battery for powering the or each at least one pump and/or the applicator tool, wherein the wearable component is configured to carry said at least one pump.

In this way, a more light weight applicator tool can be used since the battery is not located on the applicator tool but on the wearable component. This is more comfortable and light weight for the user.

Optionally, the system is configured for applying a disinfectant fluid and/or a detergent fluid to a surface.

In a second aspect, a fluid application system for applying two fluids to a surface is provided, the system comprising a wearable component configured to be worn by a user and an applicator tool for application of said two fluids to a surface, the applicator tool comprising a dispensing arrangement for dispensing the first and second fluids, wherein the wearable component is configured for carrying a first reservoir of said first fluid for application to a surface, and the wearable component is configured to carry a second reservoir of said second fluid for application to a surface, the system further comprising a first fluid flow path configured to couple said first reservoir to the dispensing arrangement of the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween, and a second fluid flow path configured to couple said second reservoir to the dispensing arrangement of the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween.

It will be appreciated that the applicator tool comprises a single unit for applying both the first fluid and the second fluid.

For optimal disinfection of a surface, cleaning of the surface is required prior to disinfection. Accordingly, a surface should be treated with a detergent, the applied detergent washed or wiped away, and then the surface treated with disinfectant, for improved disinfection.

This ensures that any dirt or foreign material present on the surface is removed from the surface prior to disinfection. Any dirt or foreign material that remains on the surface could interfere with the effectiveness of the disinfection process.

Accordingly, by providing a fluid application system for applying two fluids to a surface, a complete cleaning and disinfecting system is provided in which a single applicator tool can be used to apply both fluids to a surface, for optimised treatment of a surface.

In exemplary embodiments, the first fluid is a detergent and the second fluid is a disinfectant. The first reservoir comprises a detergent reservoir and the second reservoir comprises a disinfectant reservoir. In this way, a user can use the applicator tool to first apply detergent to a surface. When the surface is clean, the user can then use the same applicator tool to apply the disinfectant.

Since both detergent and disinfectant are carried by the wearable component, the user does not have to move to retrieve one or other of the fluids from another location e.g. a cleaning caddy, cleaning trolley etc., but rather can immediately clean and disinfect the area without interruption, thereby saving time.

Further, since both detergent and disinfectant are applied using the same applicator tool, minimal equipment is required to effect complete cleaning and disinfection of an area, which is easily carried by a user.

Optionally, said first fluid is a detergent and said second fluid is a disinfectant.

Optionally, the applicator tool comprises a spray device for spraying said first and second fluids, e.g. an electrostatic spray device.

Optionally, the spray device comprises a single unit through which at least a portion of the first and second fluid flow paths extend.

In exemplary embodiments, the dispensing apparatus comprises a single exit port for dispensing both the first fluid and second fluids.

In exemplary embodiments, the dispensing apparatus comprises a first exit port for dispensing a first fluid and a second exit port for dispensing a second fluid, wherein the first fluid flow path is configured to couple said first reservoir to the first exit port for fluid communication therebetween, and the second fluid flow path is configured to couple said second reservoir to the second exit port for fluid communication therebetween In exemplary embodiments, the at least one exit port(s) comprise(s) a spray nozzle.

In exemplary embodiments, the spray device comprises a handheld wand having the or each of the at least one exit port at a distal end of the wand.

In exemplary embodiments, the spray device comprises a handheld spray gun having the or each of the at least one exit port at a distal end of the spray gun.

Optionally, the wearable component comprises a first reservoir holder for carrying said first reservoir and/or a second reservoir holder for carrying said second reservoir.

Optionally, the system, e.g. the wearable component, comprises a wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with a surface, for example, wherein the wipes holder is configured for carrying wipes for use with the first fluid and/or wipes for use with the second fluid.

In exemplary embodiments, the wipes holder comprises a first wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with the first fluid and/or a second wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with the second fluid.

In this way, two types of wipes can be conveniently carried by the system, the first type being optimal for use with the first fluid, and the second type being optimal for use with the second fluid.

For example, the first wipes holder may contain absorbent wipes for use with a detergent.

Use of absorbent wipes optimises removal of dirt from a surface for improved cleaning.

For example, the second wipes holder may contain non-absorbent wipes for use with a disinfectant. Use of non-absorbent wipes optimises distribution of disinfectant over a surface for even and complete coverage, particularly for disinfection of difficult to treat high contact areas, as described above.

Optionally, the system e.g. the wearable component, further comprises a waste wipes holder for disposal of used wipes.

Optionally, the or a first reservoir holder and/or the or a second reservoir holder and/or the or a wipes holder and/or the or a waste wipes holder is/are configured to be detachable from the wearable component.

In exemplary embodiments, the system comprises at least one pump for pumping fluid from the first reservoir to the dispensing apparatus e.g. the first exit port, and from the second reservoir to the dispensing apparatus e.g. the second exit port. In exemplary embodiments, the wearable component is configured to carry the at least one pump.

In exemplary embodiments, a first pump is provided for pumping fluid from the first reservoir to the dispensing apparatus e.g. the first exit port, and a second pump is provided for pumping fluid from the second reservoir to the dispensing apparatus e.g. the second exit port.

In a third aspect, a wearable component for use with the fluid application system disclosed herein is provided, wherein the wearable component is configured to be worn by a user, the wearable component is configured to carry a (first) reservoir of a (first) fluid for application to a surface and/or a second reservoir of a second fluid for application to a surface.

Optionally, the wearable component further comprises at least one wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with a surface.

In a further aspect, a fluid application system for applying a fluid to a surface is provided, the system comprising an applicator tool comprising a dispensing apparatus for application of a fluid to a surface, the system being configured to carry a reservoir of fluid for application to a surface, the system comprising a fluid flow path configured to couple said reservoir to the dispensing apparatus for fluid communication therebetween, and the fluid application system comprising a wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with a surface.

In a further aspect, a fluid application system for applying a fluid to a surface is provided, the system comprising a wearable component configured to be worn by a user and an applicator tool for application of a fluid to a surface, the system being configured to carry a reservoir of fluid for application to a surface, the system comprising a fluid flow path configured to couple said reservoir to the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween.

In a further aspect, a fluid application system for applying two fluids to a surface is provided, the system comprising a wearable component configured to be worn by a user and an applicator tool for application of said two fluids to a surface, the applicator tool comprising a dispensing arrangement for dispensing the first and second fluids, wherein the system is configured for carrying a first reservoir of said first fluid for application to a surface, and the system is configured to carry a second reservoir of said second fluid for application to a surface, the system further comprising a first fluid flow path configured to couple said first reservoir to the dispensing arrangement of the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween, and a second fluid flow path configured to couple said second reservoir to the dispensing arrangement of the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween.

It would be appreciated that the optional features described may apply to any aspect disclosed herein. All combinations contemplated are not recited explicitly for the sake of brevity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the disclosure will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures 1 and 2 show perspective views of a fluid application system according to a first embodiment; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a backpack of the fluid application system of Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4a shows a perspective view of a reservoir holder according to the first embodiment; Figure 4b shows a perspective view of a wipes holder according to the first embodiment; Figure 4c shows a perspective view of a waste wipes holder according to the first embodiment; Figure 5a shows a front view of the reservoir holder of Figure 4a; Figure 5b shows a front view of the wipes holder of Figure 4b; Figure Sc shows a front view of the waste wipes holder of Figure 4c; and Figure 6 shows a schematic of a fluid application system according to a second embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a fluid application system 2 is illustrated. The fluid application system 2 is a disinfectant application system configured to apply a disinfectant liquid to a surface. The system 2 includes a wearable component, e.g. a backpack 4, configured to be worn by a user, and an applicator tool 6 configured to dispense disinfectant for application to a surface. In exemplary embodiments, the fluid application system may comprise any suitable wearable component, e.g. a belt, a utility vest, or other suitable wearable item.

The backpack 4 includes a reservoir holder 8 configured to carry a reservoir 10 of disinfectant. In the illustrated embodiment, the reservoir 10 is a refillable bottle 10, for example, a 1 litre bottle. In some embodiments, the reservoir may comprise any suitable container, e.g. a bladder container.

In exemplary embodiments, the system may be configured to carry more than one reservoir of disinfectant, e.g. a main reservoir and an additional reservoir for extra capacity.

The backpack 4 further comprises a wipes holder 12 for carrying wipes for use with a surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the wipes holder 12 is intended to carry nonabsorbent wipes which can be used to spread disinfectant over a surface for even and complete coverage.

The backpack 4 includes a belt 14 configured to be worn around a user's body. The reservoir holder 8 and wipes holder 12 are provided on the belt 14, as shown in particular in Figures 1 and 3. This will be described in further detail below.

The backpack 4 further comprises a waste wipes holder 16 for disposal of used wipes. This is also provided on the belt 14, as will be described in further detail below.

As will be appreciated from the Figures, the wipes holder 12 is provided on one side of the backpack 4 and waste wipes holder 16 is provided on the other. With reference to Figure 3, the wipes holder 12 is provided on the belt 14 such that, when the backpack 4 is worn, the wipes holder 12 is located towards the left hand side of the wearer. Conversely, the waste wipes holder 16 is provided on the belt 14 such that, when the backpack 4 is worn, the waste wipes holder 16 is located towards the right hand side of the wearer. It will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the wipes holder 12 is located towards the right hand side of the wearer and the waste wipes holder 16 is located towards the left hand side of the wearer. In some embodiment, the wipes holder 12 and the waste wipes holder 16 can be located on the same side of the wearer.

As can be appreciated from Figure 2, the wipes holder 12 and the waste wipes holder 16 are located at the side of a wearer. In some embodiments, the wipes holder 12 and the waste wipes holder 16 are located at the front of a wearer when the backpack 4 is worn.

With reference to Figure 4a, the reservoir holder 8 is formed of a pocket 8a into which the bottle 10 can be easily inserted for carrying, and from which the bottle 10 can be easily removed for refilling. The pocket 8a can include an elasticated rim 8b, to facilitate retention of the bottle 10 in the pocket 8a.

In some embodiments, any suitable means of carrying the reservoir is provided. For example, the reservoir may be integrally provided with the backpack, the reservoir may comprise attachment means for securing to the backpack e.g. a clip, or the backpack may comprise any other suitable carrying means.

With reference to Figure 4b, the wipes holder 12 is formed of a pocket 12a having a lid 12b, the lid 12b having an opening 12c through which wipes are dispensed. The opening 12c is configured such that a portion of the next wipe to be dispensed protrudes through the openings 12c for easy dispensing.

With reference to Figure 4c, the waste wipes holder 16 is formed of a slim-line pocket 16a having an elasticated rim 16b. This facilitates retention of used wipes in the pocket 16a.

The reservoir holder 8, wipes holder 12 and waste wipes holder 16 are all configured to be detachable from the belt 14.

As shown in figures 5a-c, each of the holders 8, 12, 16 includes a flap 18a, 18b, 18c extending from an upper portion of the respective pocket 8a, 12a, 16a. The holders 8, 12, 16 include a series of fasteners for securing the holders 8, 12, 16 in position on the belt. For example, for each holder, the fasteners may comprise a pair of studs in which a first half of each stud 22a, 22b, 22c is provided on the respective flap 18a, 18b, 18c and the second half of each stud 24 a, 24b, 24c is provided at a corresponding location on the respective pocket 8a, 12a, 16a.

The flap 18a, 18b, 18c is configured to be folded over the belt 14. Fold lines 20a, 21b and 20c are provided, e.g. by a line of stitching, to facilitate this. The studs are then fastened to secure the respective holder 8, 12, 16 in place.

It will be appreciated that each holder 8, 12, 16 can be detached from the belt 14 and reattached at a desired location.

With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the system 2 includes an applicator tool 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the applicator tool 6 comprises a spray device for spraying disinfectant. For example, the spray device may be an electrostatic spray device.

The spray device 6 includes a wand 26, configured to be held by a user, and a dispensing arrangement 28 including an exit port (not shown), e.g. a spray nozzle, through with disinfectant can be sprayed. An actuator 36, e.g. a push button, is located on the wand 26. Actuation of the actuator 36, e.g. depression of the push button, causes disinfectant from the reservoir 10 to be sprayed out of the exit port of the spray device 6.

In alternative embodiments, the actuator may comprise a trigger. In exemplary embodiments the spray device may comprise a spray gun.

The system 2 further comprises a flow path 30 coupling the reservoir 10 and nozzle of the spray device 6 for fluid communication therebetween. The flow path 30 is arranged such that a portion of the flow path 30 extends through the wand 26 of the spray device 6, terminating at the spray nozzle. The flow path 30 may be formed of any suitable piping.

The system 2 further comprises a pump 32 for pumping disinfectant along the flow path from the reservoir 10 to the spray nozzle. The pump 32 is carried by the backpack 4.

The system 2 also comprises a battery 34 for powering the pump 32 and the spray device 6.

When in use, a roll or stack of non-absorbent wipes is loaded into the wipes holder 12 such that the first wipe to be dispensed extends through the opening 12c of the lid 12b. A roll or stack of wipes is typically arranged to facilitate dispensing of the wipes. For example, in a stack of wipes, adjacent wipes are typically interleaved such that when one wipe is dispensed, the next wipe is presented to the user. In a roll of wipes, adjacent wipes are typically coupled together by a perforated join, which is broken when a wipe is dispensed such that the next wipe is presented to the user.

The reservoir 10 is filled with disinfectant and located in the reservoir holder 8 such that the piping of the flow path 30 extends below the fill level of the reservoir 10.

The user directs the spray device 6 towards a surface to be disinfected and depresses the push button 36, causing disinfectant from the reservoir 10 to be sprayed out of the exit port of the spray device 6 and onto the surface. When the user comes to a surface that cannot be reached by the spray from the spray device 6, e.g. the back of a door handle, the user can take a non-absorbent wipe from the wipes holder 12 and use it to spread disinfectant to cover the difficult to reach area. This ensures complete coverage of the surfaces to be disinfected.

Similarly, the user may use a non-absorbent wipe from the wipes holder 12 to spread disinfectant across all/any surfaces to ensure even and complete coverage.

When the user is finished with the wipe, it can be easily and hygienically disposed of in the waste wipes holder 16.

In this way, an efficient, time saving and hygienic system is provided which can be used to ensure even and complete disinfectant coverage across all desired surfaces.

A fluid application system in accordance with a second embodiment is illustrated in Figure 6 and indicated by reference numeral 102. The fluid application system 102 is a detergent and disinfectant application system configured to apply both a detergent and a disinfectant to a surface.

The system 102 includes a backpack 104 configured to be worn by a user, and an applicator tool 106 configured to dispense detergent and disinfectant for application to a surface. The applicator tool 106 comprises a dispensing arrangement 128 for dispensing both the detergent and disinfectant.

The backpack 104 is configured to carry a first reservoir 109 of detergent. In the illustrated embodiment, the reservoir 109 is a refillable bottle 109, for example, a 1 litre bottle. The backpack 104 is also configured to carry a second reservoir 110 of disinfectant. In the illustrated embodiment, the reservoir 110 is a refillable bottle 110, for example, a 1 litre bottle.

In some embodiments, the first and/or second reservoir may comprise any suitable container, e.g. a bladder container.

In exemplary embodiments, the system may be configured to carry more than one reservoir of disinfectant and/or more than one reservoir of detergent, e.g. a main reservoir and an additional reservoir for extra capacity.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bottles 109, 110 comprise a clip, e.g. a belt clip, for attachment to a belt 114 of the backpack 104. In exemplary embodiments, the backpack may comprise first and second reservoir holders, of similar construction to the reservoir holder of the first embodiment, for carrying the first and second reservoirs respectively.

The system 102 comprises a first fluid flow path 129 configured to couple said first reservoir 109 to the dispensing arrangement 128 of the applicator tool 106 for fluid communication therebetween, and a second fluid flow path 130 configured to couple said second reservoir 110 to the dispensing arrangement 128 of the applicator tool 106 for fluid communication therebetween.

In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 6, the first and second reservoirs 109, 110 are carried at either side of the backpack 104. However, it will be appreciated that the first and second reservoirs 109, 110 can be provided at any desired location on the backpack. 10 The applicator tool 106 comprises a spray device for spraying both detergent and disinfectant. In use, it is expected that detergent and disinfectant would be dispensed separately, however, it will appreciated that the detergent and disinfectant could be dispensed at the same time if desirable. In exemplary embodiments, the spray device may be an electrostatic spray device.

The spray device 106 includes a wand 126, configured to be held by a user, and a dispensing arrangement 128. The dispensing arrangement 128 includes a first exit port 137 through which detergent can be sprayed and a second exit port 138 through which disinfectant can be sprayed. The first and/or second exit ports may each comprise a spray nozzle.

In exemplary embodiments, the dispensing arrangement includes a single exit port, e.g. nozzle, through which both detergent and disinfectant can be sprayed. In such embodiments, the first and second flow paths join upstream of the single exit port.

The first and second flow paths 129,130 are arranged such that a portion of each flow path 129,130 extends through the wand 126 of the spray device 106, terminating at the respective spray nozzle. Each flow path 129, 130 may be formed of any suitable piping.

A first actuator 135, e.g. a first push button, is located on the wand 126. Actuation of the first actuator 135 causes detergent from the first reservoir 109 to be sprayed out of the first exit port of the spray device 106. A second actuator 136, e.g. a push button, is also located on the wand 126. Actuation of the second actuator 136 causes disinfectant from the second reservoir 110 to be sprayed out of the second exit port of the spray device 106.

In alternative embodiments, the first and/or second actuator may comprise a trigger. In exemplary embodiments the spray device may comprise a spray gun.

The system 102 further comprises a first pump 131 for pumping detergent along the first flow path 129 from the first reservoir 109 to the first exit port. The illustrated system 102 further comprises a second pump 132 for pumping disinfectant along the second flow path 130 from the second reservoir 110 to the second exit port.

The first and second pumps 131, 132 are carried by the backpack 104.

The system 102 also comprises a battery 134 for powering the first and second pumps 131,132 (connection not shown in Figure 6) and the spray device 106.

In some embodiments, the backpack 104 comprises a first wipes holder 111 for carrying wipes for use with a surface. The first wipes holder 111 is intended to carry absorbent wipes for use with dispensed detergent to clean a surface. The backpack 104 further comprises a second wipes holder 112 for carrying wipes for use with a surface. The second wipes holder 112 is intended to carry non-absorbent wipes which can be used to spread dispensed disinfectant over a surface for even and complete coverage.

In exemplary embodiments, the backpack may comprise a single wipes holder for carrying two or more sets of wipes. For example, the single wipes holder may be configured to carry two different types of wipes, e.g. absorbent wipes for use with detergent to clean a surface and non-absorbent wipes for use with disinfectant to treat a surface. In exemplary embodiments, each set of wipes may comprise wipes of the same type, e.g. absorbent or non-absorbent.

In exemplary embodiments, a set of wipes comprises a roll or stack of wipes.

In exemplary embodiments, the single wipes holder may comprise a lid having two or more openings, e.g. similar to the opening 12c described above, each opening for dispensing wipes. For example the first opening may be used to dispense a first set of wipes, e.g. absorbent wipes, and the second opening may be used to dispense a second set of wipes, e.g. non-absorbent wipes.

The first and second wipes holders 111, 112 are of the same construction as the wipes holder 12 of the first embodiment and are configured to be coupled to the belt 114 of the backpack 104 in a similar manner.

The backpack 4 further comprises a waste wipes holder 116 for disposal of used wipes. The waste wipes holder 116 is of the same construction as the waste wipes holder 12 of the first embodiment and is configured to be coupled to the belt 114 of the backpack 104 in a similar manner.

The first wipes holder 111, second wipes holder 113 and waste wipes holder 116 can be arranged on the belt 114 as desired. For example, the first wipes holder 111 and second wipes holder 113 can be arranged on the right hand side of the belt 114 and the waste wipes holder 116 can be arranged on the left hand side of the belt, or vice versa.

When in use, a roll or stack of absorbent wipes is loaded into the first wipes holder 111 such that the first wipe to be dispensed extends through the opening the lid. A roll or stack of wipes is typically arranged to facilitate dispensing of the wipes. For example, in a stack of wipes, adjacent wipes are typically interleaved such that when one wipe is dispensed, the next wipe is presented to the user. In a roll of wipes, adjacent wipes are typically coupled together by a perforated join, which is broken when a wipe is dispensed such that the next wipe is presented to the user.

A roll or stack of non-absorbent wipes is loaded into the second wipes holder 112 such that the first wipe to be dispensed extends through the opening of the lid. A roll or stack of wipes is typically arranged to facilitate dispensing of the wipes. For example, in a stack of wipes, adjacent wipes are typically interleaved such that when one wipe is dispensed, the next wipe is presented to the user. In a roll of wipes, adjacent wipes are typically coupled together by a perforated join, which is broken when a wipe is dispensed such that the next wipe is presented to the user.

The first reservoir 109 is filled with detergent and located on the backpack 104 such that the piping of the first flow path 129 extends below the fill level of the first reservoir 109.

The second reservoir 110 is filled with disinfectant and located on the backpack 104 such that the piping of the second flow path 130 extends below the fill level of the second reservoir 110.

The user directs the spray device 106 towards a surface to be treated and depresses the first push button 135, causing detergent from the first reservoir 109 to be sprayed out of the first exit port of the spray device 106 and onto the surface. To clean the surface, the user takes an absorbent wipe from the first wipes holder 111 and uses it to clean the surface with the detergent, thereby removing dirt and debris from the surface. The absorbent wipe can also be used to clean surfaces that the detergent spray from the spray device 106 is not able to reach, e.g. the back surface of a door handle. This ensures a clean surface prior to disinfection.

When the user is finished with the absorbent wipe, it can be easily and hygienically disposed of in the waste wipes holder 116.

The user then disinfects the surface by directing the spray device 106 towards the surface and depressing the second push button 136, causing disinfectant from the reservoir 110 to be sprayed out of the second exit port of the spray device 106 and onto the surface. When the user comes to a surface that cannot be reached by the disinfectant spray from the spray device 106, e.g. the back of a door handle, the user takes a non-absorbent wipe from the second wipes holder 112 and uses it to spread disinfectant to cover the difficult to reach area. This ensures complete coverage of the surfaces to be disinfected.

Similarly, the user may use a non-absorbent wipe from the wipes holder 112 to spread disinfectant across all/any surfaces to ensure even and complete coverage.

When the user is finished with the non-absorbent wipe, it can be easily and hygienically disposed of in the waste wipes holder 16.

In this way, an efficient, time saving and hygienic system is provided which can be used to ensure even, complete and more effective disinfectant coverage across all desired surfaces.

Although the invention has been described in relation to one or more embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, it will be appreciated that any suitable fluid(s) can be dispensed from the fluid application systems disclosed herein. In exemplary embodiments, the fluid application system may comprise any suitable wearable component, e.g. a belt, a utility vest, or other suitable wearable item. In exemplary embodiments, the wipes holder and/or waste wipes holder may be provided by the applicator tool.

Claims

Claims 1. A fluid application system for applying a fluid to a surface, the system comprising a wearable component configured to be worn by a user and an applicator tool for application of a fluid to a surface, the wearable component being configured to carry a reservoir of fluid for application to a surface, the system comprising a fluid flow path configured to couple said reservoir to the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween, and the fluid application system comprising a wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with a surface.
2. A fluid application system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the system further comprises a waste wipes holder for disposal of used wipes.
3. A fluid application system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wearable component comprises the wipes holder and/or the or a waste wipes holder.
4. A fluid application system according to claim 2 or 3 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the wipes holder is provided in the region of a right hand side of a user's body and the waste wipes holder is provided in the region of a left hand side of a user's body, when the wearable component is worn, or vice versa.
5. A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, wherein the wipes holder and/or the or a waste wipes holder is/are positioned at a front and/or side of a user, when wearing the wearable component.
6. A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, wherein the wipes holder includes a lid comprising an opening for dispensing wipes.
7. A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, wherein the wearable component comprises a reservoir holder for carrying said reservoir.
8. A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, wherein the wipes holder and/or the or a waste wipes holder and/or the or a reservoir holder is/are configured to be detachable from the wearable component.
9. A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, wherein the applicator tool comprises a spray device for spraying fluid, e.g. an electrostatic spray device.
10.A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, wherein said reservoir of fluid is a first reservoir of a first fluid for application to a surface, and the system, e.g. the wearable component, is further configured to carry a second reservoir of a second fluid for application to a surface, such that the fluid application system is configured to apply two fluids to a surface.
11.A fluid application system according to claim 10, wherein the fluid flow path is a first fluid flow path configured to couple said first reservoir to the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween, and the system comprises a second fluid flow path configured to couple said second reservoir to the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween.
12.A fluid application system according to claim 11, wherein the applicator tool comprises a single unit through which at least a portion of the first and second fluid flow paths extend, such that the applicator tool is configured to dispense both the first and second fluids.
13.A fluid application system according to any of claims 10 to 12, wherein the wipes holder is configured for carrying two sets of wipes, for example, wherein the wipes holder comprises a first wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with the first fluid a second wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with the second fluid.
14.A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, comprising at least one pump for pumping fluid from said reservoir(s) to the applicator tool, wherein the wearable component is configured to carry said at least one pump.
15.A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, comprising a battery for powering the or each at least one pump and/or the applicator tool, wherein the wearable component is configured to carry said at least one pump.
16. A fluid application system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system is configured for applying a disinfectant fluid and/or a detergent fluid to a surface.
17.A fluid application system for applying two fluids to a surface, the system comprising a wearable component configured to be worn by a user and an applicator tool for application of said two fluids to a surface, the applicator tool comprising a dispensing arrangement for dispensing the first and second fluids, wherein the wearable component is configured for carrying a first reservoir of said first fluid for application to a surface, and the wearable component is configured to carry a second reservoir of said second fluid for application to a surface, the system further comprising a first fluid flow path configured to couple said first reservoir to the dispensing arrangement of the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween, and a second fluid flow path configured to couple said second reservoir to the dispensing arrangement of the applicator tool for fluid communication therebetween.
18.A fluid application system according to claim 17, wherein said first fluid is a detergent and said second fluid is a disinfectant.
19.A fluid application system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the applicator tool comprises a spray device for spraying said first and second fluids, e.g. an electrostatic spray device.
20. A fluid application system according to claim 19, wherein the spray device comprises a single unit through which at least a portion of the first and second fluid flow paths extend.
21.A fluid application system according to any of claims 17 to 20, wherein the wearable component comprises a first reservoir holder for carrying said first reservoir and/or a second reservoir holder for carrying said second reservoir.
22.A fluid application system according to any of claims 17 to 21, wherein the system, e.g. the wearable component, comprises a wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with a surface, for example, wherein the wipes holder is configured for carrying wipes for use with the first fluid and/or wipes for use with the second fluid.
23.A fluid application system according to any of claims 17 to 22, wherein the system e.g. the wearable component, further comprises a waste wipes holder for disposal of used wipes.
24.A fluid application system according to any of claims 17 to 23, wherein the or a first reservoir holder and/or the or a second reservoir holder and/or the or a wipes holder and/or the or a waste wipes holder is/are configured to be detachable from the wearable component.
25.A wearable component for use with the fluid application system according to any preceding claim, wherein the wearable component is configured to be worn by a user, the wearable component is configured to carry a (first) reservoir of a (first) fluid for application to a surface and/or a second reservoir of a second fluid for application to a surface.
26.A wearable component according to claim 25, further comprising at least one wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with a surface.
27.A fluid application system for applying a fluid to a surface, the system comprising an applicator tool comprising a dispensing apparatus for application of a fluid to a surface, the system being configured to carry a reservoir of fluid for application to a surface, the system comprising a fluid flow path configured to couple said reservoir to the dispensing apparatus for fluid communication therebetween, and the fluid application system comprising a wipes holder for carrying wipes for use with a surface.