Method and device for washing laundry in a machine using a powdery product.

p0001The present invention relates the laundry machine. It relates to a novel method of washing to use so optimal products currently commercially available in solid form, especially powder, which are used in a washing operation, for example, detergents or other additives special with activity during washing. The invention also relates to a device for implementing such a method.

p0002Washing is increasingly carried out in machines, with products in the form of powder, granules or other solid particles. Machine washing machine are mainly machines drum but there are also machines said stirrer / Pulsator. Whatever type of machine used, the experts know that the conditions of use of such products are far from optimal. There is indeed a problem to ensure uniform distribution of the particulate product and its dissolution in the washing medium in the tank of the machine. In what follows, more particularly illustrate the technical problems in the powdered detergent box, but it is clear that similar problems arise with detergents presented differently as with any additives with activity during washing.

p0003Is provided mostly compartments or containers for receiving the appropriate amount of detergent powder prior to the actual washing operation. Product active powder is believed to be driven by the water in the tank of the machine, as and when the progress of the process. However, we note that the washing powder is far from being completely driven by the water, so that it remains the quantities remaining more or less important in the bin distribution. Thus, the expected amount of washing powder n'est not actually consumed, which reduces the effectiveness of washing. In addition, the trays washing machines are still contaminated residues from operations earlier. This difficulty is widely known and the subject of many complaints from users.

p0004Another technical problem posed by the use of powder detergents is that the dissolution of the product active in the tank n'est not complete, so the powder entrained by the water and has not been able to dissolve it properly falls directly to the bottom of the tank. Depending on the type of machine, product loss in the system drain can reach 20% of the amount initially placed in the trays. The powder undissolved is directly discharged into the drain of the machine, which leads ultimately the user to increase the dose of powder to ensure flushing optimal.

p0005To avoid the drawbacks mentioned above and loss of detergent in the tanks of distribution, a number of users use a makeshift craft, which involves placing directly powder detergent in the drum of the washing machine before starting the washing operation. This measurement n'est course usable as in the case of a machine drum with top opening, and it n'est not free either of drawbacks. If we can estimate, in fact, that the losses in the tanks of distribution are eliminated, it n'en is not the same for the losses in the system drain, which are then slightly reduced. Anyway, this solution n'est unsatisfactory, because the powder passes through the holes of the drum and comes into contact directly with the machine. Upon rotation of the drum in the water, the dissolution of detergent powder particles thus come into contact with the machine exerts an adverse influence thereon. Frequently, the detergent particles have a coloration, so that the colored granules of the detergent dissolve releasing the dye to the same machine and can then cause stains thereon. Similarly, if, as desired to achieve good performance of washing, the composition detergent contains peroxygen compounds, granules corresponding, for example the granules of perborate, decompose in contact with the machine and can discolour the articles color fragile.

p0006There is therefore a technical problem indisputable, which is related to the fact that detergents or washing powders presented in particulate, do not respond to the conditions optimal dissolution in water during washing.

p0007To solve such a problem, the plaintiff appealed to the concept of a process in which we fill first detergent device, which is then placed in the machine with the laundry. She, in fact, developed this concept mainly in the case of liquid detergents and, by reference to illustrate this state of the art include the patent application FR 34 O6151 filed April 18, 1984 and published under No. 2,563,250, entitled "method of washing laundry in a machine with a liquid detergent and device for its implementation." In this case, the detergent contained in the device progressively diffuses into the washing medium and into the laundry located in the machine. In one embodiment, the device has a filling orifice and vents for the progressive release of the liquid within the laundry during washing.

p0008But when desired to apply simply such a concept to the case of detergent particulate, it does in many cases difficulties practices. These are that the dissolution of the solid particles of detergent in the wash water is not adequately ensured if they put up such a detergent in a device having holes, then introducing such device into the machine in the machine. It was found, in fact, that the presence of ports on the device, which may disseminate the detergent did not allow good dissolution of the powder. Increasing the number and / or size of the holes n'est not a solution satisfactory as it faces the same drawbacks as those mentioned at the beginning of this description, namely powder losses in the system drain and / or a contact with the laundry while the particles are still solid. Also, a reduction in the number and / or hole sizes leads, as has been found, in a sealing gradual orifices by the powder wet, so that the detergent can not exit the device to perform the function washing. The entire discussion above therefore shows that, in general, it is not possible to use optimally powdered detergents in the metering devices and broadcasters who, moreover, prove very suitable for liquid detergents.

p0009In its FR-87.06.413 patent application published May 6, 1987 November 10, 1988 under No. 2,614,905, for "Method and apparatus for laundry machine", the applicant proposed to use a metering device and spread containing a detergent in solid form and ensuring the predissolution of the powder prior to its gradual release in the middle of the linen. In one embodiment, such a device comprises a body capable of being filled with the desired amount of detergent, removable plugging means of this body, the body or said means having holes or vents for release of the detergent, said device being characterized in that it comprises means separating the part of the device comprising the holes or vents of the part comprising the particulate detergent, said means being designed to allow free passage to the washing water and for practical prevent ing the output massive and uncontrolled particulate detergent. A device structure which has given very advantageous practical results has the general shape of a revolution body being closed by a removable cap which has holes allowing both the ingress of water inside of the device and also the diffusion of the detergent, the device being more particularly characterized in that it comprises at least one plate mounted inside the device to separate the cap and the body part containing the particulate detergent, said wafer having it -even at least one orifice whose area is less than that of the holes or vents in the cap, Thus, the perforated plate can retain the particulate detergent in the body of the device while allowing washing water to dissolve it before coming detergent its release into the washing machine.

p0010The Applicant has continued its research to solve technical problems mentioned in the patent application FR cited above, while retaining the concept of broadcasting and progressive dispersion in the washing medium and into the laundry of active product available initially as particulate, ensuring predissolving of this product prior to its release. It is desirable indeed to develop a metering and diffusing device which, while retaining a simple structure, yet provides improvements to devices already proposed for this purpose in the case of particulate detergents and allows to: - Reduce the amount of plastic used in the device, which responds to the needs of increasingly important environmental protection regulations in this regard to prevent plastic waste products that are not normally destroyed in natural environments, - Achieve a minimal footprint to RepON dre for packaging needs, transportation, and shopping, and - Eliminate noise caused by the metering devices and broadcasters in washing machines, to meet the expectations of some users.

p0011The present invention provides a solution to these technical problems as well as other, as apparent from the following description, while fully retaining the benefits of metering devices and diffusers it had previously proposed for particulate detergents , particularly those subject to the abovementioned patent application FR.

p0012The invention relates to a method for washing laundry in a machine, wherein a metering device is filled and reusable type of diffuser, with a particulate product which is active during washing, this device is placed in the machine with the laundry to washing and then executes the washing in the usual manner, characterized in that said device essentially comprises a flexible sheath in the form of bag extending around at least a mouth, which allows filling of the bag with the desired amount of product substantially to a washing operation and remains at least partially open during washing, the aqueous washing medium penetrating into the interior of the bag at least through the mouth thereof, for the progressive dissolution of the particulate product, latter thus being progressively liberated during washing predominantly in the form of an aqueous solution passing at least through the bag mouth.

p0013According to the invention, the bag is made of a material capable of retaining the particulate product, without allowing the pass in solid form and of withstanding the temperatures of washing and drying the laundry machine.

p0014According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the material of the bag is designed to allow the penetration of the aqueous washing medium through the bag toward the particulate product contained in them, as well as the distribution of a active aqueous solution originating from the progressive dissolution of the particulate product and passing through the bag, outward of the interior thereof. In this embodiment, the bag is water-permeable. The penetration of the aqueous washing medium takes place also by the bag mouth as therethrough and diffusion or release of the active product solution is made also by the bag mouth and therethrough .

p0015The method of the invention can be applied not only to detergent in solid form, but also to any particulate product having activity during the wash, for example selected from bleaching agents, such as agents releasing chlorine or of active oxygen (compounds peroxygenated), bleach catalysts, bleach activators, bactericides, foam regulators, brightening agents, antiredeposition agents soil, enzymes, softeners, agents exerting seconding action spots fat or components not exerting direct action on dirt but can intervene in a laundering process machine, for example agents ensuring protection of organs and internal parts of the washing machine.

p0016In this specification the term "particulate" includes all forms of presentation of such solids, such as powders, granules, flakes, lozenges and similar physical structures capable of being dissolved in water under normal conditions washing. The process of the invention is particularly advantageous with detergents in the form of particles called high density, which are already currently oped in some countries. They have advantages in packaging, transportation, shopping, vis-à-vis products traditional like, due to the reduction of congestion they achieve. However, due to their chemical composition and their physical structure characteristics such detergents high density particles tend to cause losses in the distribution tray and in the drain circuits, even more important than the detergents in powder traditional. The ability to dissolve these new detergents is, in some cases, less than that of known products. Individual packaging used for these detergents in high density particles often have a lower volume, which means that there is less space available for the insertion of metering devices and broadcasters. These new problems techniques related to the appearance of the detergent particles with high density are also solved by the method of the present invention, which uses a device dispenser and diffuser comprising essentially a bag material flexible.

p0017The device used according to the invention differs in many respects from some means known in the art prior which consisted of sachets or pouches may contain a detergent or additive useful in the washing, such products may be present in form particulate in the bag. First of all the pockets or pouches of the art prior contain a premetered amount of product and can not be reused. Their design does not allow to gradually release the product, this being distributed completely either immediately at the beginning of wash cycle or during it. The device of the invention does not have the disadvantages of sachets or pockets in the art prior. According to the invention the device is of such reusable and can be assayed at will the amount of product (detergent or additive one) due to the presence of the mouth, which is used to fill the product. Furthermore the expert knows that to allow the diffusion of the product assets, sachets or pouches of the art prior must have a wall soluble in water or the middle of washing or, if this wall n is not soluble in water, there must be joints or bonds capable of dissolving to release the products. In the first case, for the walls water-soluble, there is no problem at the washing machine, but the sachets or pockets are difficult to store and market practically, due to their sensitivity to moisture. This solution n'est therefore not technically acceptable, except by adopting measures much more expensive for the design of the wall. However, with pockets or pouches insoluble, the body thereof is released along with the product active, which causes serious inconvenience to the organs of the washing machine, pockets or bags emptied of their contents resulting then various damage such as clogging of circuits drain. Such difficulties practices are well known to those skilled in the art and n'ont therefore not be further explained.

p0018Unlike the means of the prior art, the device of the invention can be recovered at the end of the wash without any risk to the machine, which is entirely made essential for practical user needs.

p0019The method of the invention can be implemented with a wide variety of devices including a bag flexible.

p0020The material of the flexible bag can be of any type, since it has sufficient water resistance and washing medium to temperatures used during washing and during drying, and can go up to about 150 ° C. It can be a woven or nonwoven material made from natural or synthetic fibers or mixture thereof. In a purely illustrative, one can use a bag formed of a sheath soft in pure cotton either in the form of a fabric having a mesh size less than 0.5 mm or in the form of a non-woven article with openings ranging in particular from 0.5 to 0.8 mm. The bag can also be produced from films extruded or coextruded and having perforations. The dimensions thereof can vary within wide limits depending on the nature and the granulometry of the product particle. For information, movies perforations of about 380 microns can be used. However, the bag material is not necessarily a textile material. The sheath may also be made from a mesh plastic or a sheet of paper or other material cellulosic porous and water resistant. If the material provided for the bag flexible possesses not in itself a resistance sufficient to water, it can provide it with a coating making it water resistant. For example in the case of porous paper, the coating may consist of a latex based binder associated with a hydrophobic substance.

p0021Up to the present disclosure of the invention was made on preferred embodiments include using a flexible bag or sheath whose wall has pores or openings of various shapes and sizes, either organized as in the case a tissue, or random as in the case of nonwoven materials. But for the purposes of the invention, it is also possible to use a flexible bag of which the sheath is completely waterproof and wash medium, in which case the fluid transfers in the direction of the interior of the bag as well as outwardly thereof, can only be made through the mouth of the bag. Such embodiments are indeed possible by taking steps to have the mouth of the ways to achieve the predissolving of particulates, as will be described below.

p0022The outer shape of the bag can also be highly variable according to an advantageous feature of the invention, it is possible to adapt this form to the type of particulate material used and the conditions under which this product is to be released, as examples will be given later. Illustratively, the bag may be a substantially cylindrical sheath extending in the extension of the mouth, the diameter of the sheath then being substantially equal to that of the mouth. But one can also use the gains that taper from the mouth or on the contrary, widening from it. A tapered sleeve provides a relatively quick release of the particulate product, while a flared sleeve allows a relatively slower release. Also, since the device according to the invention is of the reusable type and the user can dose at will the amount of the particulate product, the flexible bag may have markings corresponding to various fill levels and therefore to varying amounts of particulate products.

p0023It was said above that the device according to the invention has at least one mouth allowing both the filling of the bag with the active ingredient and its release under prédissoute form, in the washing medium and into the laundry located in the machine. In the simplest embodiment, which is preferred, the device comprises a single river mouth, the section can be anything: circular, oval, square, rectangular and others. We have obtained good results with practical circular section mouths.

p0024It is appropriate that the mouth of the bag is delimited by means serving as a support for the sleeve of the bag. This can be done simply using a ring having as its section, that provided for the mouthpiece. This ring can be made of a entirely made of variable hardness material, the only condition being that the opening is held open during washing. The constituent material of the ring can be a plastic, metal or wood, cardboard made water-resistant and other similar material. Good practical results are obtained with plastics that are easy to work to achieve the desired configurations of the ring. For example, polyethylene and polypropylene are suitable.

p0025It has been said earlier that the bag mouth must be kept open, at least partially, during the washing, in order to allow the gradual release of an aqueous solution of active product. We can, in extreme cases, use soft bag devices in which the mouth is completely free, but it is generally preferred to use devices in which the mouth has additionally the means to hide, except of certain predetermined apertures. Numerous embodiments are possible when the means associated with the ring delimiting the mouth for at once: - To carry out the filling of the bag with the particulate product, - To prevent the particulate product out of the bag massively in particulate form during the washing, - Make available inside the bag to the wash medium, so as to ensure the predissolution of the particulate product, the release thereof then being essentially in the form of a solution passing, at least in part, through the mouth, from inside to outside the bag.

p0026It goes without saying that the means for masking the mouth must be adapted to the shape and nature of the ring delimiting thereof. Purely illustrative examples are given below. Was obtained good results practices with a ring having radial walls ending with a solid central area, so that openings are thus produced between each of said radial walls. The walls in question may be rectilinear or otherwise have a particular profile, for example helically. But many other variants are possible: for example it may be provided within the ring defining the mouth of the concentric walls to the ring, going inward thereof, with radial walls arranged between said partition walls and the outer ring.

p0027For routine tests, the skilled person is able to choose the forms and dimensions of the openings in the mouth for best results depending on the type of active product to use during washing. Illustrative examples are given below.

p0028According to an additional embodiment, the shape of the ring surrounding the flexible bag can be selected to facilitate the removal of particulate product in a packaging of larger dimensions, for example a barrel. To this end, the ring can be arranged so that its outer edge makes function bleed trough. To facilitate gripping the ring may also have irregularities of surface, raised or recessed, allowing a good grip with the fingers. But it is also possible to fix the ring on an element allowing its grip. Such an element can be mounted permanently, in which case it is preferably of small size, or alternatively, this element is constituted by a handle of greater dimension, which may be removably secured by any suitable means on the body the ring.

p0029According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the choice of a particular type of dispenser and diffuser devices with flexible bag can be adapted to the active product to use during washing. Thus, devices whose mouth is completely open during washing and which contain no masking means can be used to contain detergents or additives, the constituents do not dissolve in water slowly. An example of a detergent composition having such characteristics is as follows:<tables id="tabl0001" num="0001"><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="2" colsep="1" rowsep="0"><colspec colnum="1" colname="col1" colwidth="78.75mm" /><colspec colnum="2" colname="col2" colwidth="78.75mm" /><tbody valign="top"><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Sulfates alkyl</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">7-10%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Fatty acid</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">1- 3%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Aluminum silicates and sodium</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">15-25%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Polymers soluble in water</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">1- 3%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Sodium Silicate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">3-8%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium sulfate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">10-40%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium carbonate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">5-10%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Alcalase (enzyme)</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">0- 2%</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

p0030In the above composition as well as in the other examples which follow, all parts are by weight unless otherwise indicated.

p0031Another example of a detergent composition suitable for washing delicate, can be implemented with a metering device and open mouth diffuser is: <tables id="tabl0002" num="0002"><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="2" colsep="1" rowsep="0"><colspec colnum="1" colname="col1" colwidth="78.75mm" /><colspec colnum="2" colname="col2" colwidth="78.75mm" /><tbody valign="top"><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Sulfates alkyl</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">10-20%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Fatty acid</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">1- 3%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Aluminum silicates and sodium</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">20-30%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Sodium Silicate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">1- 5%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium sulfate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">20-40%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium carbonate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">0-5%</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

p0032Additives can also be used in such a metering and dispensing device are, for example, products exerting a soothing action on the water washed ge.

p0033A metering device and disseminate having a mouth with masking means, can be used with detergents for big washes for which it is appropriate to avoid direct contact between the machine and some of its constituents. Examples of detergent composition for big washes in this category include the following:<tables id="tabl0003" num="0003"><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="2" colsep="1" rowsep="0"><colspec colnum="1" colname="col1" colwidth="78.75mm" /><colspec colnum="2" colname="col2" colwidth="78.75mm" /><tbody valign="top"><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Sulfates alkyl</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">7-10%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Fatty acid</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">1- 3%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Aluminum silicates and sodium</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">15-25%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Polymers soluble in water</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">1- 3%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium perborate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">10-25%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Sodium Silicate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">3-8%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium sulfate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">10-40%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium carbonate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">5-10%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">alcalase</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">0- 2%</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

p0034Additionally, the above composition may comprise up to 5% of a bleach activator such as tetraacetyl ethylene diamine or the oxybenzene sulfonate iso-nonanoyl.

p0035Some particulates may present some difficulties of dissolution in the aqueous medium, having been introduced inside the flexible bag. sometimes there was thus observed powder residues, wet but undissolved, remaining inside the bag at the end of the washing operation.

p0036The present invention also relates to a general type of method described above and ensuring complete dissolution of the particulate product during the wash cycle.

p0037The invention further relates to devices whose structure is designed to preserve the longevity of the constituent flexible tube bag.

p0038According to another embodiment of the present invention, a device comprising means extending within the bag, from the mouth thereof, said means ensuring the maintenance at least part of the general shape of the bag during washing.

p0039A device for implementation of this embodiment is therefore characterized by the presence of the aforesaid holding means, which are implemented within the sheath of the bag.

p0040It has been found that the general shape of the sheath of the bag was then maintained substantially throughout the washing operation, the retaining means preventing in particular the flexible walls of the sheath to come closer. This eliminates the disadvantage found in some cases of a kind of prison a game of particulate product when the bag walls are brought to substantially come into contact, this quantity of particulate product can even be compressed between the walls of the bag, making it less easy dissolution by the aqueous medium. With the present invention, the integrity of the shape of the bag is substantially maintained, so that the particulate product dissolves completely and normally during washing, to be gradually released through the mouth of the bag and, if the material constituting the bag is permeable to water, through the sheath of the bag.

p0041In a first embodiment, the holding means consist of a rod immersed inside the bag, one end is fixed at the mouth and the other end is free.

p0042The length of such a rod is variable, it can extend to various levels within the bag, from the mouth to the bottom thereof.

p0043It is preferred that the cross section of the stem is significantly smaller than the section of the bag, so that the sheath thereof to exercise its function without being obstructed by the presence of the rod inside the bag. It is also appropriate that the free end of the rod has a flared portion or blown to the bag bottom. This widened part may have the form of a disc made in one piece with the shaft or secured to the latter by any means. This widened part may be solid or perforated, so as, in the latter case, to allow easier access to the free aqueous medium until the bag bottom.

p0044It was found that, to ensure good retention of the shape of the bag, the length of the rod was suitably such that the flared portion is in the vicinity of the bag bottom.

p0045According to other embodiments according to the invention, the holding means consist of a cage immersed inside the bag.

p0046Said cage may comprise a first end portion cooperating with the orifice in order to be fixed thereon and a second end portion, which is free and extends within the bag. This first end portion may be shaped rod-shaped to be attached at the bag mouth, with the ring delimiting thereof or, if they exist, as is preferred, with the masking means this mouth.

p0047Said cage also includes a number of organs in the form of bars, extending generally in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the bag. It is advantageous that these bars are held at each end by an annular member, or any other section, generally corresponding to that of the mouth and of the sheath of the bag.

p0048In yet another embodiment, which gave the best results currently, the holding means consist of an assembly whose longitudinal axis generally corresponds to that of the bag, said assembly CONSTITUTING at one end a first member cooperating with the means delimiting the mouth of the bag or, if present, with the masking of the latter means, and at the other end a second member located within the bag, said members serving to support the bars extending generally longitudinally within the bag.

p0049It has been found that the best results for washing, in particular the point of view of the dissolution of the particulate product were obtained with an assembly of the type which has just been mentioned, wherein the bars extend in the vicinity of the sheath the bag. It is also preferred that, when the assembly is placed on the mouthpiece, the second member is located inside the bag adjacent the bottom thereof.

p0050The embodiments which have been cited to illustrate the means for holding inside the bag of the sheath may be applied to all information and embodiments described above, for example in terms of the nature of particulate product of the general structure of the dosing device and the diffuser and of the constituent materials thereof. Note also that the results of the invention can be obtained with a wide variety of embodiments of means for holding the shape of the bag during the washing operation. The following description gives illustrative examples.

p0051In practice, the volume of the bag flexible must be chosen depending on the dose of product asset to be distributed during washing. When s'agit a composition detergent, values ​​suitable volume for the bag flexible are from about 250 ml to 400 ml, which allows to introduce the amounts by weight of detergent particle of the order of 150 to 250 g per wash.

p0052It should still be noted that the method of the invention using a metering and dispensing device with flexible bag allows the use of détergen your compositions which currently can not find a practical application, due to the fact that they can not be distributed properly from tray or compartment that team the washing machine. This is true even for some detergent compositions with a high density, which have already been mentioned above. But the same observation is to do for other detergent compositions with poor water solubility. The method of the invention therefore makes use of the detergent compositions providing improved performance of washing, for example by reducing or even eliminating the load type sulfate sodium while increasing proportions agent surfactant, for example anionic and nonionic. Also, the invention can be carried out with particulates of highly variable size, as the skilled person has many parameters in the dosing and dispensing device to select the most appropriate device depending on the nature of the active product : material forming the flexible bag and form thereof, mouth with masking means or not, forms and dimensions of the mouth and it comprises openings where presence of masking means, holding means inside the sheath of the bag, and other similar parameters.

p0053When in the presence description, it is about opening or mouth, these expressions are intended to designate any form passages through which can pass the products presented in particulate form or liquids, pastes or others.

p0054The foregoing description and examples concrete following illustrate the problems Technical solved by the invention and the benefits it provides.

p0055The method of the invention allows to distribute detergents, additives or other wash active products available in particulate form, within the laundry located in the machine, which provides higher concentrations of detergent solution into contact with the machine and therefore increases the performance and quality of the wash.

p0056The invention removes almost all the losses of active product, in particular detergent, which occur when using the dosing compartment of the washing machine, the losses in the machine drain circuit also being removed.

p0057The amount of plastic used in the dosing and dispensing device is very low because it is reduced to that of the ring delimiting the mouth and carrying the flexible bag. In some cases it is not even need to use the plastic Réalier for such a ring. Thus, the invention provides better protection of the environment because the constituent materials of the device are largely degraded in the natural environment.

p0058Testing practices have demonstrated also that the implementation of the device dispenser and diffuser with a bag flexible did not cause any noise inside the machine during the washing operation. The device, due to its low weight, causes no damage to the machine.

p0059The very small size of the flexible bag metering and diffusing device allows to associate an optimum manner for the packaging of particulate products, such as detergents and additives useful in the wash. One can thus use packaging individual with amounts greater product particulate and / or containers that themselves have a reduced size. The device in question is very easy to handle and store because it requires a very small spot.

p0060Unlike pockets or bags containing a predetermined dose of active product, the invention allows any desired quantity of product, depending on the nature of it. We choose same accordingly the metering device and the most appropriate diffuser characteristics of the product, a type of device then being assigned to an individual package of product.

p0061The method of the invention is still very easy to implement since the device dispenser and diffuser can be used directly to charge the product active particulate. Once the washing operation is completed, the device is easily recovered in the machine and it can then be reused. Even if the user forgets the device in the machine or the dryer, it is not a disadvantage either for it or for the machine in a subsequent washing operation.

p0062The skilled person will understand that the present invention provides so much flexibility to solve the various problems techniques laundry machine with products active particulate.

p0063The invention is further illustrated without being limited by the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:<ul><li>Fig. 1 shows schematically, in front view, a usable metering and diffusing device in the method of the invention.</li><li>Fig. 2 is a view similar to Figure 1 showing a variant.</li><li>Fig. 3 is a view similar to Figures 1 and 2 showing another variant.</li><li>Fig. 4 is a section illustrating the mounting of the flexible bag on a support ring.</li><li>Fig. 5 is a plan view of a ring defining the mouth of the bag.</li><li>Fig. 6 is a view similar to Figure 5 illustrating a variant illus.</li><li>Fig. 7 is a view similar to Figures 5 and 6, showing another variant.</li><li>Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view showing a ring with gripping means.</li><li>Fig. 9 is a view similar to Figure 8 showing a variant.</li><li>Fig. 10 is a view similar to Figure 8, illustrating another variant.</li><li>Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the various components of another embodiment of a device according to the invention and the mounting method of said components.</li><li>Fig. 12 is a perspective view with partial cutaway of the device of Figure 11 as it may be used.</li><li>Fig. 13 is a view similar to Figure 12 showing a variant.</li><li>Fig. 14 is a top view showing a detail of a member of the Figure 13 device.</li><li>Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a device of the invention.</li><li>Fig. 16 is a detail perspective view showing a variant of the holding means used in the device of Figure 15.</li><li>Fig. 17 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a device of the invention.</li><li>Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the Figure 17 device, partially broken away, said device being mounted and ready for use.</li></ul>

p0064The metering device and diffuser designated by the general reference 10 in Figure 1 essentially comprises a ring 1 and a bag 2 of flexible material, for example cotton fabric. The size of the openings of the fabric 2 must be such that it can prevent the free passage of a pro particulate product, especially a detergent, set up within the bag, even in terms of the particles fine. In the example shown in Figure 1, the bag 2 has an approximately cylindrical general shape but there are shown variants in Figures 2 and 3 illustrate different shapes.

p0065In Figure 2 the device 20 comprises a ring 21 carrying a flexible bag 22 which tapers toward the tip. The device 30 of Figure 3 comprises a ring 31 and a flexible bag 32 which widens from the mouth bounded by the ring 31. The shape of the bags is used to vary the retention characteristics of the particulate product to the inside the bags and therefore the diffusibility in the washing medium and into the laundry of the particulate product under prédissoute form. Thus, the bag 22 of Figure 2 provides more rapid diffusion characteristics that the bag 32 of Figure 3, the structure of the ring 31 and the corresponding mouth being the same.

p0066Figure 4 is a sectional view schematically showing the mounting of a flexible bag 42 on a support ring 41. In this example it is made of plastic, for example polypropylene. It is formed by an outer wall 43 joined to an inner wall 44, the latter being substantially rectilinear. Between these two walls is formed a compartment 45 within which may be inserted the extreme edge 46 of the bag 42. In order to maintain the bag 42 on the ring 41, any suitable means can be used, for example an adhesive capable of withstand the temperatures involved in washing machines including those in which is formed a drying temperatures can then be up to 150 ° C.

p00675 shows schematically in plan the structure of a ring which has given good practical results in the implementation of the method of the invention. It essentially comprises a peripheral wall 51 arranged in the same manner as the ring 41 shown in Figure 4. In the center of the ring 51 is mounted a wafer 52 from which extend a number (in the example selected this number is equal to 6) of elements 53 in the form of turbine blades. Between the elements 53 are formed openings 57. A ring of the type shown in Figure 5 enables both filling of an associated flexible bag, while preventing massive outflow of particulate product through the openings 57. In fact, during the operation of the machine, the device is rolled along the machine, which favors contacting the particulate product with the wash medium, the latter penetrating at once through the pores of the flexible bag and the openings 57. however, the particulate hardly comes as a solid undissolved, thanks to the presence of the blades 53. It goes without saying that the example in Figure 5 is only illustrative. Many other variations can also be provided. For information, is shown in Figure 6 a ring having a peripheral wall 61, an inner pad 62 and straight radial partitions 64, to provide between them openings 67. Figure 7 shows a ring having a wall device 71, an intermediate wall 73 concentric shape and an inner pad 72. between the walls 71 and 73 are provided radial partitions 74 forming between them openings 77. Similarly, between the wall 73 and the inner pad 72 are provided walls 75 leaving between them radial openings 78. results equivalent to those of the Figure 5 device can be obtained with the devices of figures 6 and 7, by appropriately selecting the number and size of the openings thus produced.

p0068Figures 5-6 have been illustrative only for the art. This can also use structures having been the subject of Figures 4 to 23 of the patent application FR already mentioned and introduced by reference into this specification.

p0069Figures 5 to 7 show rings which all include within certain elements which act as masking means for preventing the particulate product being released in solid form from inside the bag. But according to the nature of the particulate product to use, it is perfectly possible to use completely free rings leaving the mouth of the bag. This type of ring is shown in Figures 8 and 9. For the purpose of illustration, the ring of Figure 8 has a peripheral wall 81 provided with a tab 82 can serve as gripping means. The tab 82 facilitates the introduction of particulate product when it is taken in packaging for its dosage in the bag. 9 illustrates a variant in which the ring 91 may be provided with a handle 92, shown separately and removably attached in 93, by any suitable quick fastening means, in particular by snapping or latching.

p0070Figure 10 shows another variant in which the ring 101 comprises surface irregularities on its outer edge to facilitate the engagement with the fingers. In the example, these irregularities are formed by a recess 102, for example to accommodate the thumb and at least one other recess 103 to accommodate the index of the same hand. The user can thus, very simply, enter the ring 101 for filling the bag associated with it.

p0071The metering and diffuser devices used in the method of the invention have been illustrated in Figures 4 to 10 with rings defining a circular mouth. It has been said that this form was not required and that one can also use ovals or other contours. Preferred for the purposes of washing, devices having no sharp edges, so as to cause no damage to the machine. Therefore prefers generally round or oval structures rather than structures with square or rectangular sections, even if the edges are rounded. Anyway, the skilled person may adopt any shape or structure, especially if the ring is made of plastic, because its fabrication is easy by known molding techniques, for example by injection. But, as we have already indicated above, it is not imperative that the ring is made of plastics material, other materials may also be suitable.

p0072Figures 11 to 18 illustrate embodiments of the inventive device with holding means disposed inside the sheath of the bag.

p0073The device shown in perspective and in exploded view in Figure 11 comprises, according to the teaching of the patent, a part 201 having the general shape of a ring, which defines the mouth of the device. Thereof, in the example shown, comprises masking means 202, which are constituted by a number of webs in the form of helices, which extend from a hollow central axis 203 to reach the periphery of the ring 201 . This kind of device is easy to obtain by molding plastic material, for example polyethylene or polyproplyène. The central portion 203 is hollow, which reduces the device and further allows for the mounting according to the invention, as will be described later.

p0074Furthermore, the device includes a bag 204, for example in the form of a nonwoven, permeable to an aqueous medium. This bag has an end 204<u>at</u> and a bottom 204<u>b</u>. The end 204<u>at</u> is wound and fixed on a ring 205, which can be fixed by form-locking in the ring 201; This attachment can be by simply pressing or by any other means, for example by screwing or quick fixing of the kind bead bra (clipping). All of these mounting methods are familiar to those skilled in the art and are easy to implement with plastic components.

p0075The device of Figure 11 also includes means which, in the example shown, are constituted by a shaft 206 terminating in a flared or blown part 207. At its end 208, the rod 206 is pressed into the central portion 203 of the ring 201.

p0076Figure 12 shows the device of Figure 11, once it has been mounted. It is seen that the holding means in the form of the rod 206, extend from the center 203 of a ring 201 to a depth inside the bag 204 adjacent the bottom 204<u>b</u> of this one. In this example, the portion 207 is full and the rod 206 extends substantially the entire length of the bag.

p0077But it is possible to provide the device of Figures 11 and 12 many variations which all fall within the scope of the invention. The length of the stem 206 may be variable. For example, as has been shown in Figure 13, where the same components bear the same reference numbers, the rod 206 is not going to the bottom of the bag 204. Also, the section of the blown portion 207 can be d varying importance. Similarly, there is shown in Figures 11 and 12 a full portion 207, but, as shown from above in Figure 14, the holding means may consist of a rod 206 having at its end plunging inside the bag, a perforated disc 209; in this example it is seen that the disc 209 has three holes 209<u>b</u>, Maintained by a crown 209<u>at</u>. It is clear that rod of the type shown in Figure 14 may also be used in a device according to Figures 11 and 12.

p0078For use, is introduced into one of the devices shown in Figures 11 to 14, the desired amount of particulate material, having a function in the wash, more particularly a detergent. May implement any of the particulate products already described previously. Tests were performed with detergent compositions, examples of which will be given later. The volume of the bag 204 should correspond to the amount of useful detergent for washing, for example the bag is designed to contain a quantity of the order of 250 g of powder. With a device of the kind shown in Figures 11 to 14, the amount of undissolved powder at the end of washing is greatly reduced compared with a device having no bag holding means inside thereof. The tests showed that the devices of the kind shown in Figure 12 (rod up to the bag bottom) rather give better results than those in which the stem is not going to bag bottom.

p0079Figures 15 and 16 illustrate another embodiment wherein the retaining means are established in the form of a cage.

p0080Figure 15 shows in exploded view the various components of the device. As shown in Figure 11, we see the ring 211 provided with its masking means 212 in form of propeller, with its central opening 213. The bag 214 is fixed at its end 214<u>at</u> on a ring 215. The latter cooperates with locking manner with the ring 211. The holding means designated by the general reference 220, comprises a first end in the form of a cylindrical rod 216 ending in a portion 218 capable of being introduced into the central opening 213 of the ring 211. at the other end, the cage 220 is terminated by an apertured collar 219 and, as shown in the drawing of Figure 15, we see 217 bars or members extending in the longitudinal direction inside the bag 214 and the axis thereof. In the example shown, these bars 217 are four in number. As for the devices shown in Figures 11 to 14, the height of the cage 220 may be variable, so that the flange 219 can terminate near the bottom 214<u>b</u> the bag 214 or stop at an intermediate distance inside the bag 214. Also, it represented the end 219 in the form of a perforated collar, but you could also use a full disk. In the assembly illustrated in Figure 15, the bars 217 include a portion 217<u>b</u> substantially parallel to the axis of the bag 214 and another part 217<u>at</u> oriented obliquely to connect to the stem 216. Many other variants are possible while taking a general form of cage. For example, a variant is shown in Figure 16. The latter illustrates a holding means in the form of a cage designated by the general reference 220. At one end there is a tubular portion 216, of small dimensions , intended to be introduced into the central opening 213 of the ring 211. at the other end, the cage 220 terminates in a flange 219. It also shows that the bars 217 have longitudinal parts 217<u>b</u> other parts 217<u>at</u> adjoining the tubular portion 216.

p0081In the variant of Figure 16, shows another flange 219<u>at</u> which is mounted so as to support the bars 217<u>b</u> before they change direction in the form of bars 217<u>at</u> to join the stem 216. Thus, the mechanical strength of the assembly is further improved. Such variations are within the reach of the art, especially as their production is easy by injection molding of technical plastics.

p0082With the kind of the device shown in Figures 15 and 16, we get good washing results, especially if the section of the cage 220 is quite similar to that of the bag 214.

p0083Figures 17 and 18 illustrate another embodiment which has proven to provide particularly advantageous results for the laundry machine.

p0084Seen in the exploded view of Figure 17 the various components of the device. The latter first includes a ring 221 having masking means 222 helically extending around a hollow central axis 223. Furthermore, the bag 224 comprises a bottom 224<u>b</u> and is fixed at its other end 224<u>at</u> on a ring 225 engageable by forms of conjugation with the ring 221. The retaining means are constituted by an assembly designated by the general reference 230. The latter comprises two bodies 226, 229 of generally annular shape. The ring 226 has a flange 229 capable of having on the ring 225 defining the bag mouth, so that at assembly, the ring 221 fits over the flange 228 and the ring 225. In this way, the set 230 is integral to both the ring 225 carrying the bag 224 and the ring 221, which is fixed by any appropriate means: screws, simple depression or rapid clip fastening (the bead type and throat).

p0085Between annular members 226 and 229 extend a number of bars 227 giving the whole 230 a frustoconical general shape, the section of the member 226 being greater than that of the body 229. In this case also, the embodiment of the assembly 230, like other components of the device is within the reach of the skilled person, by use of conventional means of plastic molding.

p0086There is shown in Figure 18 the device of Figure 17 once mounted, that is to say in a situation of use. The partial cutaway formed in the bag 224 makes it possible to see inside thereof the provision of the assembly 230, which serves to maintain the general shape of the bag. In the example shown, the longitudinal dimension of the assembly 230 is such that the ring member 229 arrives at a small distance from the bottom 224<u>b</u> the bag 224. This provision gave the best practical results and there has been no particulate residue, such as a detergent, did not remain at the end of a washing operation. Possible variants can however be implemented with various dimensions of the assembly 230, the latter then extending at varying levels within the bag 224. It was also found that a structure of the holding means like that of all 230 conferred on it excellent mechanical strength.

p0087The invention will be further illustrated by the concrete examples below relating to the implementation of the inventive method. In a first series of examples, a metering device was used and diffuser comprising a flexible bag with a capacity of 250 ml to 400 ml, having the approximate shape shown in FIG 2. The mouth was bounded by a polypropylene ring as illustrated above with reference to Figure 5. in the tests reported below, the laundry has been carried out with detergent doses ranging between 150 and 250 g. In some tests, the bag was made with a cotton cloth, whose mesh openings had a magnitude less than about 0.5 mm. Other tests were conducted with a cotton bag nonwoven, having apertures in a range from about 0.5 to 0.8 mm and equivalent results were obtained.

p0088As an active product in the tests, we used a large washing detergent composition as defined below: <tables id="tabl0004" num="0004"><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="2" colsep="1" rowsep="0"><colspec colnum="1" colname="col1" colwidth="78.75mm" /><colspec colnum="2" colname="col2" colwidth="78.75mm" /><tbody valign="top"><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Sulfates alkyl</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">7-10%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Fatty acid</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">1- 3%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Aluminum silicates and sodium</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">15-25%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Polymers soluble in water</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">1- 3%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium perborate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">10-25%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Sodium Silicate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">3-8%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium sulfate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">10-40%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium carbonate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">5-10%</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">alcalase</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="right">0- 2%</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

p0089All the above parts are by weight. In some tests, the above composition was added with an amount up to 5% of a bleach activator, namely the tetraacetyl ethylene diamine. In all cases, we obtained excellent results in washing performance.

p0090Comparative tests have been undertaken to assess the dissolution rate of the same granular detergent composition for washing large type just described, in similar conditions to those of the laundry machine. a metering device was used according to the present invention having a ring as shown in Figure 5, and a bag made of a coextruded polypropylene film with openings of about 38O microns. Furthermore, it was tested in the same a metering device having an identical ring but extended by a full body polyethylene .In both cases the device capacity corresponded to 2OO g. The results showed that the dissolution rate of the composition was faster with the device according to the invention, as witnessed by the measurements made on the amount of detergent released in the bath, especially during a period of 8 to 1O minutes after the introduction of the device into the machine. This is particularly favorable for the laundry.

p0091Additional trials are underway to demonstrate the benefits of a flexible bag dispenser and dispensing device in laundry machine. The tests reported below were conducted on the one hand with a device according to the invention, comprising a cotton cloth bag fitted to a ring of the type shown in Figure 5 and on the other hand a device comprising a rigid body polyethylene, integral with a ring identical to that of Figure 5. in all cases, we used the granular detergent composition for washing large defined.

p0092The conditions of laundry washing machine tests were as follows: <tables id="tabl0005" num="0005"><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="2" colsep="1" rowsep="0"><colspec colnum="1" colname="col1" colwidth="78.75mm" /><colspec colnum="2" colname="col2" colwidth="78.75mm" /><tbody valign="top"><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Type washing machine</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">: Miele washing machines and Siemens on the market</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Washing temperature</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">: Respectively 30 ° C, 60 ° C and 90 ° C.</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">wash</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">: Main wash only</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Water hardness</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">: Average value for the city water distribution network</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Drying</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">: In a vibrating dryer</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Laundry load</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">: Housewares tissues</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col2" align="justify">Common to 2 kg (30 ° C) to 3 kg (60 to 90 ° C), as points of comparison four pairs of identical samples by test characteristics, the number of comparison tests being 24.</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

p0093The wash results were evaluated by experts, who thus completed 288 visual assessments (ie 12 per test) based in particular on the characteristics samples.

p0094The preference rate (61%) expressed for the flexible bag device of the invention was significantly higher than that (39%) on the rigid device.

p0095therefore the above results show the superiority of the performance of the invention in the laundry machine.

p0096Other machine washing tests were carried out with devices of the invention, as illustrated in Figures 11-18 above, the bag being in each case made of cotton non-woven. The particulate material used was a detergent powder having the following approximate composition:<tables id="tabl0006" num="0006"><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="2" colsep="1" rowsep="0"><colspec colnum="1" colname="col1" colwidth="78.75mm" /><colspec colnum="2" colname="col2" colwidth="78.75mm" /><tbody valign="top"><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">linear alkylbenzene sulfonate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">5.64</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Alkyl (tallow) sulfate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">2.42</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">nonionic</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">5.76</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Tripolyphosphate sodium</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">24,00</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">zeolite A</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">5.39</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">polymers</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">3.60</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium perborate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">13.50</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Tétraaminoéthylènediamine</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">5.28</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Enzyme</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">1.62</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Buffer</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">21,18</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">chelating</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">1.08</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Divers and humidity</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">balance to 100</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

p0097The above composition wherein the parts are by weight, corresponds to a detergent containing, as an adjuvant, a phosphate-based component, namely sodium tripolyphosphate.

p0098Were also implemented other powdered detergent compositions and in particular phosphate-free compositions, such as that shown below: <tables id="tabl0007" num="0007"><table frame="all"><tgroup cols="2" colsep="1" rowsep="0"><colspec colnum="1" colname="col1" colwidth="78.75mm" /><colspec colnum="2" colname="col2" colwidth="78.75mm" /><tbody valign="top"><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">linear alkylbenzene sulfonate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">6.63</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Alkyl (tallow) sulfate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">2.43</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">nonionic</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">6.11</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">zeolite A</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">22</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">polymers</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">5.60</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">sodium perborate</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">16</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Tétraaminoéthylènediamine</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">5.76</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Enzyme</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">1.62</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Buffer</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">20</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">chelating</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="char" char=",">0.80</entry></row><row><entry namest="col1" nameend="col1" align="left">Divers and humidity</entry><entry namest="col2" nameend="col2" align="left">balance to 100</entry></row></tbody></tgroup></table></tables>

p0099The amount of product used was 260 g in each case. The washing tests were performed by placing in the machine drum white and colored napkins and for the purposes of demonstration, we have placed the device in the middle of the towel washing, these being folded to cover the device and put in place.

p0100We then started the washing machine (program 7-40 ° C) and was allowed to complete the full cycle. The device was then recovered, taking care to enter its mouth ring, watch carefully for any undissolved powder residue that may remain inside the bag, especially at the bottom of it.

p0101For comparison, we also used devices having no holding means inside the bag. In all cases, the devices with the holding means were superior, in that the quantities of undissolved powder residue were either completely absent or, in any case markedly lower than those of the device not comprising the means maintenance. In the case of devices of the kind shown in Figures 17 and 18, recorded the best results. Also, it was found that even after repeated washings (10 to 20 washings), the device could be reused without wear of the bag.

p0102The present invention has been illustrated with devices having a mouth with masking means. It is certain that the same provisions could be adopted with no means of masking devices, that is to say with a completely open mouth of the bag. Similarly, practical tests were carried out with bags whose constituent material was permeable to the aqueous medium. It goes without saying that the invention is also applicable to devices in which the bag is impermeable to the aqueous wash medium.

p0103Note also that a certain amount of particulate matter may pass through the mouth of the device undissolved, especially at the beginning of the wash cycle. The benefits of a gradual dissolution of the material in the bag and its distribution within the machine are not less obtained during washing.

p0104As the skilled person will readily understand, can be made to the present invention many modifications without departing from its scope. Thus, in the foregoing examples, it was especially the invention illustrated in its application to particulate detergent, but it should soon be understood that the invention is also usable with other useful particulate active products in the wash, which may be separately and exert their specific effects at selected times of the wash cycle, the beginning of it is in the wash.