The present invention refers to a two-phase cosmetic composition including an aqueous phase and an oily phase wherein the aqueous phase contains an emulsifying system comprising at least one surfactant selected from the group of cationic surfactants and at least one surfactant selected from the group of non-ionic surfactants, and wherein the total surfactant concentration is lower than 0.1%, by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

The present invention relates to a two-phase cosmetic composition especially for the region of the eyes and face consisting of two phases, a lower aqueous phase comprising surfactants and a higher or oily phase.
The cosmetic composition according to this invention is particularly useful as a composition for removing makeup that removes two types of makeup: waterproof and non-waterproof.
The principle for the operation of a two-phase makeup removing composition is based on the presence of the two above-mentioned phases, the purpose of the lower phase being to remove non-waterproof makeup and of the higher phase being to remove waterproof makeup.
When allowed to rest, the product shows the separation between the two phases and in order to act as simultaneously to remove the two different types of makeup, each one compatible with one of its bases, it is necessary to stir the product so that it becomes temporarily emulsified and the emulsion achieved in this way, which is a mixture of the two phases, manages to remove the two types of makeup satisfactorily.
The technical problem relating to achieving such a composition relies on the two principal factors which makes it necessary to develop a solution for the adequate performance of the product.
On the one hand, while the product must remain emulsified for sufficient time for the user to remove all her make up, on the other hand it should not cause any irritation since it is a product that may be applied to sensitive areas of the skin such as around the eyes and the face.
The time of emulsification or the period during which both phases remain xe2x80x9cmixed togetherxe2x80x9d (emulsified) is defined by the emulsifying system contained in the product, and emulsifiers or surfactants generally cause skin irritation. Therefore when the emulsifying system is configured so that the product remains emulsified for a long period, this tends to cause more irritation to the skin. If the emulsifying system is configured to cause little irritation the product tends to remain emulsified for a shorter period of time, obliging the user to interrupt the removal of the makeup, to put the top back on the flask and shake it again to obtain the two-phase emulsion.
The patent granted under number PI 8905734-1 teaches a cosmetic composition of the two-phase type that comprises a surfactant concentration in the range of 0.1 to 4% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. If it is considered that the weight ratio between the aqueous phase and the oily phase is from 30:70 to 60:40, it may be concluded that the concentration of the surfactant is from 0.33 to 0.16% by weight, relative to the weight of the aqueous phase.
The composition described in the above cited document presents the disadvantages of excessively irritating the skin and of remaining emulsified for an inadequate period.
Patent application PI 9603604-4 also filed in the name of the present applicant describes a two-phase cosmetic composition for the eyes and face, that comprises a minimum limit of 0.1% of the surfactant present in the aqueous phase, and the specification mentions the advantages derived from a generally low surfactant concentration.
In spite of being efficient, that composition still needs to be improved in order to minimize its property of skin irritation as well as to optimize the time that such a composition remains emulsified, in order to ensure that this time is closer to the time spent by the user in removing the makeup.
From patent application GB 2206048 it is known that a two-phase composition for removing makeup can contain a minimum concentration of dimethicone of 0.05% by weight based on the oily phase. However the term xe2x80x98dimethiconexe2x80x99 described there is deprived of the xe2x80x9ccopolyolxe2x80x9d denomination, which clearly means that the xe2x80x98dimethiconexe2x80x99 is used in the composition proposed in that document with the function of a solvent or anything other than an emulsifier.
There is, therefore, a technical problem to be solved, namely, reducing the concentration of surfactants to a value below 0.1% in relation to the total weight of the composition in order to obtain a two-phase cosmetic composition which is less irritating to the skin but which remains emulsified for an ideal time.
It is therefore the purpose of the present invention to solve the technical problem of providing a cosmetic composition, in particular for the region of the eyes and the face, which provides low irritation due to an emulsifying system with low content of emulsifier and of specific classes, and which at the same time allows the ideal time for the emulsification.
The present invention refers to a two-phase cosmetic composition comprising an aqueous phase and an oily phase wherein the aqueous phase contains an emulsifying system comprising at least one surfactant selected from the group of cationic surfactants and at least one surfactant selected from the group of non-cationic surfactants and at least one surfactant selected from the group of non-ionic surfactants, and wherein the total concentration of surfactants is lower than 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.
After detailed studies it was surprisingly observed that a two-phase cosmetic composition containing an emulsifying system comprising surfactants in a total content lower than 0.1% with regard to the total weight of the composition is capable of remaining emulsified for an ideal time without causing irritation to the skin when an association of two groups of surfactants is used in the emulsifying system, the first of which is selected from non-ionic surfactants and the second one from cationic surfactants.
A cosmetic composition according to the invention is particularly useful as a makeup removing composition, primarily for the area of the eyes and face. Such a composition will normally comrpise a weight ratio from the aqueous phase to the oily phase in the range of 30:70 to 60:40, preferably 60:40, and the emulsifying system is preferably present in a proportion of about 0.02 to 0.09%, more preferably 0.060 to 0.065% by weight, based on the aqueous phase.
For the objectives of the present invention, and in the case of a two-phase makeup removing composition, the cationic surfactant used is preferably benzalkonium chloride and the non-ionic surfactant is preferably selected from the group including copolyol dimethicone, poloxamer or mixtures thereof.
The cosmetic composition defined herein also contains other conventional ingredients of this type of formulation and which can be easily identified by any specialist in this area depending on the specific objectives desired in each particular case.
However it must be pointed out that one of the advantages of the present invention when formulated as a makeup removing composition, is that it makes it unnecessary to use synthetic oils, especially palmitate or alkyl adipate in the oily phase, which are normal components of this type of composition. According to the present invention other cosmetic oils can be used such as isohexadecane with less oily characteristics, resulting in a product which is less oily to the touch.
The same happens in the absence of silicone oil, since the present invention enables the cyclomethicone/dimethicone system to be replaced simply by cyclomethicone due to the new emulsifying system adopted which further provides the advantages of a lower product cost as well as greater comfort for the user, since there is a different synergy between the new emulsifying system and cyclomethicone which brings softness to the skin, being neither sticky nor greasy.
Still according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the composition also includes glycerin which allows the skin to be kept hydrated for prolonged periods of time, as much as up to five hours.
Furthermore, another advantage resulting from a two-phase composition based on this invention, and also concerning the reduced irritation aspect, is the fact that the compounds used result in a product with a final appearance that is cosmetically acceptable, allowing same to be formulated without colorants and perfumes.
The illustrative examples presented below will better describe the present invention However, the data given in the examples refer merely to some embodiments of the present invention, and should not be taken in any way to limit the scope thereof.

Indxc3xastria e Comxc3xa9rcio de Cosmeticos Natura Ltda.


An oncoming headlight glare reduction system using a controlled shuttering of a shield and the strobing of the headlight.

A product that will automatically minimize severe oncoming headlight glare. Oncoming headlight glare is caused by the incidence of oncoming light energy on the drivers eyes preventing or minimizing the driver from being able to make use of his own headlight energy, sometimes causing temporary blindness. The goal of this technology is to keep constant or minimize the loss of the amount of data (light reflected back) to the driver from his own light source/headlights while decreasing the amount of light energy that the oncoming car headlight is incident on the drivers eyes that is known as oncoming headlight glare.
We deal with sunlight brightness in a respect in two fashions, one a complete block with a visor and a partial block/filter, sunglasses. We have learned how to use visors that virtually block all light/information. They work well for our use; yet require a learned behavior because they are a complete block. We do not use this at night because of the fact that there is not enough peripheral light energy covering other areas to aid in navigation. We also use sunglasses during the day to combat sunlight, yet we have also found that putting them on at night is also not practical because we lose all or to much information. To date as a headlight comes directly at us we tend to shut out everything and even migrate directly at the source in some cases.
Another type of headlight glare that causes drivers a problem is car headlights coming from the rear, this light comes into the rearview mirror and is reflected to the driver. There are many patents that address this problem. Use of mirrors with contrasting displays have been utilized in art like U.S. Pat. No. 4,443,057 to Bauer which is incorporated herein by reference. Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,247,820 to VanOrder, which is incorporated herein by reference Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,299,316 to Fletcher which is incorporated herein by reference. These and many of the others employ active methods. These are very effective at their purpose of reducing the light from behind, where the amount of data here is not critical. Where a reduction in total energy making it to the driver is acceptable and a good product. We typically just need to know if a car is far or close to us at night. Whereas we do not want to decrease our vision data in front of us. Oncoming headlights can prevent us from being able to see in the direction the car is moving, which the more data/input our brain has the better our driving ability will be.
There are several patents that are trying to deal with oncoming headlight glare (OHG). Some try to filter with sunglass technology in certain regions of the windshield which reduces the total information coming back to the driver, Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,056,397 to Berlad which is incorporated herein by reference. This is a passive solution that filters the light all the time. This has problems like, various height persons and no matter what it does reduce the total amount of data/energy from the drivers own headlights that make it back to the driver.
Attempts at stopping OHG have included polarizers another passive method, Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,208,463 to Hansen which is incorporated herein by reference; Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,299,231 to Reitz which is incorporated herein by reference this again reduces the total amount of light energy that reaches the drivers eyes. Which in turn gives less data/energy to the driver to dive with.
Adaptive headlights automate the brightness of high beams Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,144,158 to Beam which is incorporated herein by reference, that do not reduce the OHG by normal headlights, just decrease the drivers headlights from being on high beam. Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,049,171 to Stam which is incorporated herein by reference also just reduces the drivers ability to blind the other drivers with his brights on.
Like U.S. Pat. No. 6,056,424 to DiNunzio which is incorporated herein by reference addresses glare reduction by putting a light source inside the car to reduce the dilated pupil. This in effect may mitigate severe blindness as the oncoming car approaches but it will an average decrease the total amount of information the brain receives to make decisions from the outside of the vehicle due to the smaller dilation of the eye.
Popular technologies/products that use the time shutter principle are motion pictures, cameras, TV""s, and so on. Shuttering principles have been used for years in conjunction with external energy flashes, they are used in consumer cameras for years known as flash, and are typically one time flashes. Like U.S. Pat. No. 3,952,253 to Dr. Alexander DeVolpi which is incorporated herein by reference also uses a strobing neon light source to match the shuttering camera (high-speed framing camera) xe2x80x9cseeing/recordingxe2x80x9d time as a continuous strobe recording at very high speeds for Nuclear Reactors.
Glasses that use shuttering priciples are Like U.S. Pat. No. 5,478,239 to Fuerst which is incorporated herein by reference uses LCD glasses that shutter clear and block light to allow athletes to train with limited optical input to increase the users real life proficiencies. Like U.S. Pat. No. 4,201,450 to Trapani which is incorporated herein by reference uses a electro-optic shield to limit the amount of light to the wearer""s eyes, he used glasses, helmets, goggles welding plates and so on. Like U.S. Pat. No. 5,015,086 to Okaue which is incorporated herein by reference used LCD glasses to have block the sun and have a switch to have two levels.
In principle the Shuttering Strobing Oncoming Headlight Glare Reduction System is very simple, as with TV""s that appear to be on constantly to the human. We put an active shield in front of the driver. The shield is capable of allowing light energy to pass through it and with a control signal able to prevent light or severely restrict light energy from passing through. At the same time we strobe the energy/light source/headlight to match or overlap the clear time of the shield. We do this at various frequencies that the net effect is to the driver it does not seem like the lights are flashing, similar to how the TV or AC lighting does not look like it is flashing. As one example but not limiting to any specific duty cycle or frequency we do this at a 50% duty cycle. What we then do is double the output of the light source from say 50 watts to 100 watts at 50% duty cycle averages today""s legal required limit of 50 watts to maintain the same total of energy output in a time period of one minute. Thus from the car that is approaching our vehicle the 100 watt headlight does not seem any brighter that would cause any extra problems. The shield is synchronized with the 100 Watt headlight to be in the clear phase when the headlight is in the on phase. This allows for the total amount of energy output that is reflected off the items in front of the car by the 100 Watt bulbs to reflect back and be incident on the drivers eyes because the shield is in the clear mode. In the other phase of the 50% duty cycle the shield turns dark. This blocks/absorbs 50% of the light energy put out by the oncoming cars headlights to reduce the blindness caused by the oncoming headlights.
If the oncoming headlights have the same system we in theory, can eliminate 100% of the oncoming headlights if they are in opposite phase. This can be accomplished by having the two cars communicate in some manner. Methods that they could do this is auto shift once the first one senses energy from the second, energy could be light source, they could have a coded pattern in their flashing, or they could have second energy light source like IR to communicate or with RF energy signals to send data vehicle to vehicle which allows us to co-ordinate their synchronization pattern, sound energy could also be used. Ideally there would also be bi-directional communications between the vehicles with the two energy receivers and senders.
This requires energy sensors to accept the data from the oncoming vehicle. We could also use magnetic reading sensors to synchronize phases or including GPS sensors, input where we do not have to sense the opposing vehicle.
The frequency that the system will be working at will be around 50 HZ to possible as high as 300 HZ or higher.
There are several ways that am embedded signal can be sent, it can be sent by missing several periods of data then sending a few patterns to say I am the sync vehicle like 4 periods of no data. The other will acknowledge by sending a confirming pattern of two highs and two lows and two highs for example.
Another method would be to send several longer duty cycle periods than normal. In other words we send 100 normal ones which we base our transmission length and then we send several long duty cycles to be our code that we are the sync vehicle and the other is the passive.
Another method is to shift the frequency to a different frequency say instead of 60 HZ we move to 61 HZ to say we are the sync, and the other one move to 59 HZ to acknowledge.
Another method is within the 50 HZ signal to send a data stream at 300 KHZ for example that carries data to sync the two vehicles.
Another possibility is short range RF or IR between the cars.
If two cars are side by side approaching another car, the car that receives light first will notify the others it is the sync vehicle. The oncoming cars yield to this and shift accordingly. The way we know who was first is the minute it receives the light it gives a time stamp to that arrival time, and will transmit how long it took before the other car acknowledged the original signal. Thus if it tool 900 transmissions it will send this information to the other car and his count is 500 then he yields to the 900 flashes sent.
With magnetic readings we always give the vehicle in the North leading sync right away. And we have a weighted scale for travel in other directions.
The shield is an electronically active or electro-optic device like LCD, electrochromic, that can be transmissive and in a second mode reflective/absorb the light energy to prevent it from passing through. The shield could be the windshield, part of the windshield, glasses, visors, motorcycle visors. Control signals can be just on-off state of power or could be coded signals from controller.
Energy output devices could include and not restricted to various types of bulbs, Xenon, Halogen, neon, Incandescent, LED, High Pressure Sodium and so on that put out visible light significant energy for illumination. The duty cycle may have to be averaged to match the rise and or fall time of the light energy output because the light sources tend to linger on and have a distinctive rise time before it is on.
The microcontroller is capable of providing a signal that can drive the headlight via a transistor type circuit or relay type circuit or motor signal

Shuttering strobing oncoming headlight glare reduction system


The fabric lotion applicator permits a user to apply a lotion to remote areas of the user""s body. The applicator may be provided in a kit which includes a fabric lotion applicator, a carrying pouch, and a lotion bottle. The fabric lotion applicator includes a generally rectangular main body and two handles attached to a first and second end of the main body. A button is provided on a first side of the main body and a flexible loop is attached to the first end of the main body. The lotion applicator may be easily folded into a compact size and releasably held in that configuration by engagement of the button and the loop member. The pouch is configured to carry the fabric lotion applicator and the lotion bottle within a pouch cavity.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a lotion applicator, and particularly to a lotion applicator that can be used for applying lotion to areas of the body which are difficult to reach.
2. Description of the Related Art
Applying lotion to some parts of one""s body may be challenging if not impossible without the aid of a device. For example, the back and foot are often difficult to reach with one""s hands, and in some cases they cannot be reached at all. Additionally, applying lotion to one""s body with one""s hands can be a messy and unpleasant undertaking causing the hands to become greasy and tacky. While in the past, devices having a belt or elongated strip have been used to apply or massage such hard to reach areas, such prior art devices are difficult to grasp and are not configured for individuals of all sizes. Thus, there is a need for a compact lotion applicator that can be used by all to reach otherwise inaccessible parts without undue effort and inconvenience.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,213, issued Apr. 7, 1998 to S. Meier, discloses an elongated body of generally smooth non-absorbent material with elastic handles on opposite ends thereof. The material itself is non-elastic, non-laminated, and non-woven.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,545,456, issued Aug. 13, 1996 to T. Suida, discloses an improved washcloth having a main body comprising two sheets of flexible material of differing porosity integrally secured together. A plurality of pockets are provided for the simultaneous insertion of soap and/or massaging utensils and other medicating items. The washcloth has gripping handles integrally knit to the opposing ends of the main body.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,251,990, issued Oct. 12, 1993 to E. Voight et al., discloses an applicator for use in placing skin products on a person""s body, particularly the recessed areas of the back. The applicator comprises an elongated rectangular strip of flexible material having finger holes at each end.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,730,745, issued Jan. 17, 1956 to V. Norman, discloses a washcloth having an elongated strap and a loop on each of its ends. A pocket is provided in the middle of the strap for retaining a cake of soap. The strap is made by folding a piece of material in four equally sized sections and stitching the folds together at selected portions of the strap.
Other patents relating to devices for scrubbing, massaging, or applying a body lotion to hard-to-reach sections of the body include U.S. Pat. No. 5,013,171, issued May 7, 1991 to. A. W Almond (apparatus including a cylindrical housing retractably containing an elongate continuous web retractable therefrom); U.S. Pat. No. 4,906,118, issued Mar. 6, 1990 to S. G. Crooks (lotion applicator having a central cylindrical container including a right and left flexible strap diametrically secured to opposite vertical sides of the container); U.S. Pat. No. 4,196,490, issued Apr. 8, 1980 to G. Jonzon (a sponge for personal washing having a through slot for accommodating an elongated strap having handles at opposite ends); U.S. Pat. No. 3,812,849, issued May 28, 1974 to G. Giunta (a skin conditioning article having springy and pliable body of layers of nylon net fabric with a mesh of about one-eighth inch); U.S. Pat. No. 3,720,205, issued Mar. 13, 1973 to A. J. Liebman (a device for use by a person for rubbing across hard-to-reach sections of the body having an elongated tubular liquid absorbent body formed from a limp material); U.S. Pat. No. 3,674,374, issued Jul. 4, 1972 to D. E. Jennings (a scrubber made of open-meshed tulle-like nylon having flexible loop-shaped handles at its respective ends); U.S. Pat. No. 1,488,332, issued Mar. 25, 1924 to A. Foerg (a sponge having a fibrous hollow body open at both ends and handles at opposite ends of the body); U.K. Patent No. 278,906, published Oct. 20, 1927 (a back washing device made of a bland of pliable material having transverse end spreaders to keep it spread out); and Great Britain Patent No. 2,165,748, published Apr. 23, 1986 (a body care device for use on-the human body, which has a first side formed of a toweling material, and a second side formed of a net material).
None of the above inventions and patents, taken either singly or in combination, is seen to describe the instant invention as claimed. Thus a fabric lotion applicator solving the aforementioned problems is desired.
The fabric lotion applicator includes a generally rectangular main body and two handles attached to first and second ends of the main body. The main body is formed from a single sheet of flexible fabric which is folded into three equally sized layers. The folded body is held in assembly, preferably by a seam which is sewn along the edges of the body. A button is provided on a first surface of the main body and a flexible loop is attached to the first end of the main body. When not in use, the lotion applicator may be easily folded into a compact size and releasably held in that configuration by engagement of the button and the loop member.
Also provided is a pouch for storing the lotion applicator. The pouch has an opening which may be releasably sealed by hook-and-loop fastening material that is affixed to the top edges of the pouch. A lotion bottle and a strap for securing the lotion bottle within the pouch are also included.
Accordingly, it is a principal object of the invention to provide a lotion applicator which can be used to apply-lotion to a user""s back or to other areas of a user""s body which are difficult to reach.
It is another object of the invention to provide a lotion applicator which is flexible and can be used by individuals of varying body size.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a lotion applicator that will not allow lotion to drip from the applicator surface.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a lotion applicator that will not unduly absorb lotion that is applied thereon.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a lotion applicator which can be easily washed and dried.
It is an object of the invention to provide improved elements and arrangements thereof for the purposes described which is inexpensive, dependable and fully effective in accomplishing its intended purposes.
These and other objects of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following specification and drawings.


A lock system for a horizontal tool box wherein the latching mechanism for the lid may be operated from the proximal end of the toolbox and locking is achieved by means of a single padlock which is likewise located at the proximal end of the toolbox. An elongated latch rod is slidably disposed adjacent a front wall of either the body or lid components of the box. The padlock and the elongated latch rod are disposed such that the padlock body blocks the longitudinal movement of the proximal end of the latch rod and maintains the latch rod in the latched position when the body components are in the closed position and the padlock is locked, but the proximal end of the latch rod passes between the shackle and the padlock body to move the latch rod to the release position when the padlock is unlocked.

The present invention relates generally to a lock system for a horizontal container, and more particularly to a lock system in which a padlock is located within the container so as to not be exposed to tampering.
Containers, such as tool boxes and storage cabinets, which are used at construction job sites and similar locations for storing tools and materials, are typically protected from theft by means of padlocks. In many instances, due to the value of the tools or materials stored in such containers, it is additionally desirable to use containers having lock systems that shield the padlock so that the padlock will not be exposed to tampering, such as by attempts to cut the padlock shackle or pry the shackle from the padlock body
U.S. Pat. No. 4,290,281 to Knaack et al., owned by the assignee of this application, describes and claims a lock system for a container in which a padlock is mounted on a support within the container such that only its key insertion surface is exposed for external access. In a disclosed embodiment of the lock system for a storage cabinet, the support is mounted on a vertical stile of the cabinet A slide member is mounted on the stile for movement, and has means for coupling to the doors of the cabinet and maintaining the doors in a closed position when the slide member is in a lowered position. Locking of the doors is achieved through cooperation of a tang, which is pivotally mounted on the underside of the slide member, and the shackle of the padlock which is captured by the support. The tang is positioned for insertion between the shackle and the body of the padlock when slide member is in its lowered position. When the padlock is locked, the body of the padlock pushes the tang toward the shackle so that a notch on the tang captures the shackle thereby preventing a slide member from being raised to unlatch the doors. To in order to allow the tang to disengage from the shackle when the padlock is unlocked, the tang is mounted such that it is normally urged by its own weight to an inclined position from the shackle.
While the embodiment of the lock system illustrated in the Knaack et al. patent is very effective for preventing padlock tampering, it can be somewhat cumbersome and time consuming to install, especially in the confined space of a tool chest or cabinet.
A lock system which addresses this installation problem of the Knaack et al. system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,076,078 to Weger, Jr. The Weger patent is also assigned to the assignee of this application. Like the Knaack et al. system, the lock system disclosed in this patent uses a slide member with a tang for engaging a shackle of a padlock. In some embodiments disclosed in this patent, the shackle of the padlock is captured on the support by means of an easily removable U-shaped bracket which has a pull-up ledge with coaxial openings for capturing the shackle.
Although the Weger system provides certain improvements over the Knaack et al. system, it is still not entirely satisfactory due to the use of a free hanging pin, the lock system has the significant limitation that it can only be used in containers that accommodate it in an upright position. Furthermore, the correct operation of the lock system requires reasonably precise alignment of the tang with respect to the shackle of the padlock. However, since the tang is designed to hang freely on the slide member, there is no means for positively controlling its position. Thus, if the cabinet is not level, the inclined position of the tang will be affected, and the notch on the tang may not be clear of the shackle when the padlock is unlocked. Similarly, friction in the pivotable support of the tang or between the tang and the shackle or the bracket may prevent the tang from returning to its normal inclined position when the padlock is unlocked, thereby hindering the operation of the lock system. Because the slide member normally stays in the lower position, the doors normally remain latched in the closed position even when the padlock is unlocked. Thus, every time a user attempts to open the door, he has to move the slide member up to unlatch the doors. Although this arrangement prevents accidental opening of the doors, some users may consider it somewhat inconvenient and would rather leave the doors unlatched.
Various locking systems have been proposed for horizontally disposed locking boxes having an upwardly opening cover, as opposed to vertical doors. In order to prevent would-be thieves from prying open the corners of such horizontal boxes, horizontal storage cabinets typically include locking mechanisms at both free corners of the cover opposite the hinge. Horizontal tool boxes marketed by the assignee of this application typically include two padlocks disposed at opposite ends of the box adjacent the locking mechanisms for the free corners of the cover. Using two such padlocks can be inconvenient for the user in that two keys must be maintained and the two padlocks separately actuated to unlock the box. Moreover, if the box is disposed in a truck bed, transverse the vehicle, the user must unlock the lock at one end of the box and then walk around to the opposite side of the truck and unlock the opposite lock. Similarly, when locking the box, the user must ensure that both locks are locked. Thus, locking, checking, and unlocking locks at either end of the box can be a time consuming process with the potential for user error.
An attempt to provide a horizontal tool box wherein the latching mechanisms at opposite ends of the cover may be operated from one end of the box, a locking system for a horizontal container is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,308,126 to Weger, Jr. et al. This patent is likewise assigned to the assignee of this application. The Weger ""126 patent discloses a push button lock system having a push button lock mechanism disposed along opposite sides of the container. Depression of either of the push buttons engages and displaces a pivoting latch member to disengage the pivoting latch member from a rigid latch member extending from the lid, while locking the push button lock pivots the pivoting latch member into engagement with the rigid latch member. The push button locks along opposite faces are coupled together by a series of tie rods, a stirrup and brackets which provide movement of the pivoting latch member of one side by operation of the lock of the opposite side.
While the Weger ""126 patent locking system includes a relatively large number of moving parts, which may be susceptible to damage which could potentially prevent proper operation of the locking mechanism. Moreover, the disclosed lock system does not utilize a padlock, which is typically considered desirable by users.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,235,830 to Benje discloses a horizontal tool box which utilizes a single padlock locking system. The Benje reference includes a horizontally extending elongated tubular conduit which is spring biased toward one end of the box. The conduit includes two openings within its other face which are disposed to receive two spring biased pivotable latches extending from the interior surface of the cover. A lateral bar coupled to the tubular conduit by manes of a wing extends outward from the tubular conduit in order to facilitate movement of a tubular conduct against the biasing spring to permit the cover to be opened. Should the adjacent padlock be in the locked position, the horizontal unlocking movement of the wing is not sufficient to commit the tubular conduit to release the downwardly extending latches. The Benje reference, however, presents numerous practical concerns about safety as well as operation. For example, the Benje reference includes numerous relatively fragile movable parts and couplings, including the biasing springs of the latches extending from the cover as well as the pivotable connection of the latches to the cover. Moreover, the mechanism is highly susceptible to failure in that the tubular conduit must be slid a sufficient distance to completely release the spring biased latches were a biased into engagement with the openings in the conduit. This is of particular concern in that the spring biased tubular conduit must be held against the force of the conduit biasing spring while the cover is opened. Accordingly, if the tubular conduit cannot be sufficiently moved, the cover will not unlatch the user will be unable to open the box, regardless of whether the padlock is in a locked position or not. Further, the lock is disposed in the center of the front of the box, extending into the storage area, and the latching mechanism is large and cumbersome, likewise extending into storage space. This being the case, the components are highly susceptible to damage from the user lifting items in and out of the box. Moreover, the mechanism occupies valuable storage space. While the Benje reference attempts to minimize this concern by housing the mechanism in an extension protruding from the front wall of the box, the effect is the same. Finally, the Benje reference proposes a tool box which includes a central cover area which is not movable relative to the tool box, the central cover area being flanked by two movable covers hinged thereto. Accordingly, the Benje reference proposes an arrangement which utilizes two padlocks on opposite sides of the vehicle, rather than a desirable single padlock system.
Accordingly, it is a primary object of the invention to provide an improved tamper resistant lock system for a horizontal tool box. It is a more particular object of the invention to provide a horizontal tool box which utilizes a single padlock and locking mechanism with multiple latching points, each of which is simultaneously operated from one end of the box.
It is another object of the invention to provide a locking mechanism which is resistant damaged to due normal movement of objects into and out of the tool box. More particularly, it is an object to provide a locking mechanism which provides minimal protrusion into the storage area.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a locking system for a horizontal tool box which is resistant to failure. A related object is to provide a locking system which utilizes a minimal number of sturdy components which are resistant to failure and damage during normal usage. It is also an object of the invention to provide a lock system for a horizontal tool box in which the locking and unlocking thereof are accomplished by means of components whose positions can be positively controlled to guarantee the reliable operation of the system.
It is another object of the invention to provide a lock system for a horizontal tool box that can be left in an unlatched position after the padlock is unlocked to facilitate repeated opening and closing of the box cover.
It is also an object of the invention to provide a lock system which may utilize different sized padlocks.
In accordance with the invention, a high security lock system which requires a single padlock and can be operated from a proximal end of a horizontal tool box is provided. The lock system includes an elongated latch rod which is supported in the first body component of the horizontal tool box for sliding lateral movement between a release position and a latched position. Flanges having bores are disposed generally at the proximal and distal ends of the toolbox and extend into the enclosed space of the toolbox from the second body component of the horizontal toolbox. When the toolbox is closed and the latch rod is in the latched position, the latch rod is engaged with the flanges. When the latch rod is in the release position, the latch rod is disengaged from the flanges. The latch rod may be slid laterally within the toolbox between the latched and release positions by means of a handle accessible from the outside of the toolbox substantially adjacent the proximal end of the box.
Significantly, the padlock is supported within the toolbox with the key insertion surface of the padlock likewise accessible from the proximal end of the toolbox. The latch rod is disposed relative to the padlock such that when the horizontal tool box is in the closed position and the latch rod is in the latched position, the padlock body blocks the longitudinal movement of the proximal end of the latch rod to prevent the latch rod from moving into the unlatched position. Conversely, when the padlock is in the unlatched position, the padlock body no longer blocks the lateral movement of the proximal end of the latch rod. As a result, a padlock engaging portion at the proximal end of the latch rod is free to advance between the legs of the padlock shackle so that the latch rod may move to the release position. In this way, the user may operate both the latch rod and the padlock from the proximal end of the toolbox.
According of other aspects of the invention, the locking mechanism provides only minimal interference with the use of the toolbox, and the toolbox may utilize different types of padlocks. More specifically, the elongated latch rod is disposed substantially adjacent a front wall of the toolbox with the latching portions being offset therefrom only enough to permit engagement with the flanges. Additionally, the padlock is supported within the tool box by a bracket which may be adjusted to dispose the padlock shackle at different positions in order to accommodate different types of padlock designs while ensuring proper operation of the locking mechanism. The system also preferably includes an anti-theft mechanism wherein a channel is provided about one or more of the openings which receive the proximal end of the latch rod and the latching portions so that the latch rod and latching portions cannot be readily bent to disengage them from the associated opening.

Lock system for a horizontal locking box


The present invention relates to a composition containing MAP zeolite, ethoxylated nonionic surfactant and an alkali metal carbonate.

The present invention relates to a free flowing granular cleaning composition for use in fabric care, wherein the composition contains a nonionic surfactant and a MAP type, zeolite having a particle size of 2.0 to 4.2 microns, which is an agglomeration of crystallites having pore diameters of 300 to 4000 nanometers and a porosity of at least 1.1 cc/gram.
In recent years the use of zeolite in fabric cleaning compositions as a replacement for phosphate as a detergent builder has increased because of the ability of the zeolite (crystalline alkali metal aluminosilicate) to sequester calcium ions from the aqueous wash solution.
More recently the use of the traditional Zeolite A has been replaced by the use of zeolite MAP (maximum aluminum zeolite P which has a silicon to aluminum ratio of less than 1.33).
Zeolite MAP has been previously disclosed in the literature. EP384070A discloses the use of zeolite MAP in a cleaning composition. EP044829A, EP0502675A, EP0533392B1 and EP0695341B1 teaches the use of zeolite MAP in combination with a bleach system for use in cleaning compositions. PCT WO97/34979 also teaches the use of zeolite MAP in combination with a bleaching system. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,238,594; 5,259,981; 5,259,982 and 5,498,342 are also directed to cleaning compositions containing Zeolite MAP.
PCT WO94/28109, EP0714432B1 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,490,954 and 5,518,649 teach cleaning compositions using zeolite MAP in combination with high levels of anionic surfactant as well as salts of fatty acids.
The aforementioned patents fail to provide a bleach free cleaning composition which has a low foam profile of less than 4 inches such that the cleaning composition can be used in either a front or top load washing machine.
The present invention relates to a free flowing granular, low foaming fabric cleaning composition which comprises a MAP type zeolite having a particle size of 2.0 to 4.2 microns as measured on a sedigraph, which is an agglomeration of crystallites having pore diameters of 300 to 4000 nanometers and a porosity of at least 1.1 cc/gram, a nonionic surfactant, less than 10.0 wt. % of an anionic surfactant, a polyacrylate polymer, at least one nonphosphate supplemental builder which is not a zeolite and enzymes.
An object of the instant invention is to provide a free flowing granular, low foaming fabric cleaning composition which has a foam height at the end of the wash cycle in a top load washing machine at a dose level of 92 ml of less than 4 inches.
The present invention relates to a free flowing granular, low foaming fabric cleaning composition having a bulk density of 0.4 to 0.85, more preferably 0.60 to 0.68 grams/cc which comprises approximately by weight:
(a) 5% to 20%, more preferably 7% to 11% of an ethoxylated nonionic surfactant;
(b) 2.5% to 30%, more preferably 12% to 18% of a zeolite on active basis or express as anhydrosis MAP zeolite having a silicon to aluminum weight ratio of less than 1.33 and having a particle size of 2.0 to 4.2 microns (sedigraph), which is an agglomeration of crystallites having a pore diameter of 300 to 4000 nanometers and a porosity of at least 1.1 cc/gram;
(c) 20% to 40%, preferably 32% to 38% of a supplemental detergent builder salt such as an alkali metal carbonate such as sodium carbonate;
(d) 0 to 10%, more preferably 0.5% to 6% of a sulfate or sulfonate anionic surfactant;
(e) 0.5% to 5.0%, more preferably 1.0% to 3.0% of a polyacrylate type polymer which functions as an agglomerating aid as well as a chelating agent for calcium and/or magnesium ions as well as an antiredeposition agent;
(f) 0.5% to 35%, more preferably 15% to 25% of sodium sulfate;
(g) 0.5% to 7%, more preferably 1% to 6% of an alkali metal silicate such as sodium silicate or potassium silicate; and
(h) 0 to 3%, more preferably 0.05% to 1.5% of at least one enzyme.
The present invention also relates to a composition particle having a size of 325 to 475 microns and having a bulk density of 0.72 to 0.85, more preferably 0.75 to 0.81 grams/cc comprising approximately by weight:
(a) 5% to 60%, more preferably 10% to 45% of a MAP zeolite having a silicon to aluminum ratio of less than 1.33 and having a particle size of 2.5 to 3.2 microns and a pore size of 350 to 600 nanometers and a porosity of at least 1.75 cc/grams;
(b) 0 to 55%, more preferably 5% to 50% of an alkali metal carbonate;
(c) 0 to 10%, more preferably 0.1% to 6% of a polyacrylate type polymer;
(d) 0 to 2%, more preferably 0.1% to 1% of an optical brightener;
(e) 0 to 10% of an anionic surfactant; and
(f) 10% to 40% of an ethoxylated nonionic surfactant, wherein said ethoxylated nonionic surfactant is adsorbed on said MAP zeolite and said alkali metal carbonate and the agglomerate composition has a minimum of 60% relative flowability.
Excluded from the instant compositions are single crystal zeolites, zeolites having a three-dimensional pore system, zeolites have a 12 ring structure such as zeolite X and zeolite Y, zeolites having circular pore openings, hydroxy sodalites, zeolites belonging to the LTA group such as zeolite A and zeolite B or zeolite P belong to the GIS group and having a Si:AI ratio of greater than 1.4, and a calcium binding capacity of less than 150 mg CaCO3/g and a surface area as measured by N2 absorption of less than 20 square meters/grams of zeolite. Also excluded from the instant compositions are: defloculatory polymers having a weight average molecular weight of above 3,000 up to and including 10,000 and containing polymer chains of the structure P-SR, wherein P represents a polymer chain segment of a hydrophile polymer and SR represents a mercapto end-cap group, R being an organic hydrophobic radical containing from about 4 to 28 carbon atoms and also excluded from the instant compositions are percarbonate bleach compounds.
The formulas referenced in this application and examples were made by mixing the appropriate components with the defined agglomerate compositions. Components could be added singularly or in part of whole in another pre-made composition. One method of combining a part or whole of the non-agglomerated components is through preparation of a spray dried base. A spray dried base can be made and added to the agglomeration composition. Additional components such as fragrance, enzymes, etc. were then added to this new mixed formulation.
The spray dried base referenced above was made via conventional methods. Materials were mixed in proper proportions, conditional, then dried to appropriate physical form. Conditions were controlled to yield a powder of appropriate chemistry, color, size, density, flow, etc. Chemical compositions of the dried composition comprising approximately by weight:
(a) 1.0% to 50% sodium sulfate;
(b) 1.0% to 70% sodium carbonate;
(c) 0.2% to 20%, preferably 0.2 to 10% of a sulfate or sulfonate anionic surfactant;
(d) 1.0% to 20% sodium silicate;
(e) 0.1% to 20% of a brightener;
(f) 0.5% to 10%, more preferably 1.0 to 5.0% of a polyacrylate type polymer;
(g) 0.1% to 5.0% moisture.
Bulk density could range from 0.30 to 0.75, more preferably 0.35 to 0.60 grams/cc.
Suitable anionic surfactants used in the instant compositions at less than 10 wt. % include the water-soluble alkali metal salts having alkyl radicals containing from about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms, the term alkyl being used to include the alkyl portion of higher acyl radicals. Examples of suitable synthetic anionic detergent compounds are sodium and potassium alkyl sulphates, especially those obtained by sulphating higher (C8-C18) alcohols produced, for example, from tallow or coconut oil; sodium and potassium alkyl (C9-C20) benzene sulfonates, particularly sodium linear secondary alkyl (C10-C15) benzene sulfonates; sodium alkyl glycerol ether sulfates, especially those ethers of the higher alcohols derived from tallow or coconut oil and synthetic alcohols derived from petroleum; sodium coconut oil fatty monoglyceride sulfates and sulfonates; sodium and potassium salts of sulfuric acid esters of higher (C8-C18) fatty alcohol-alkylene oxide, sulfates of methyl esters (C8-C20) with SO3 forming alpha sulfonate commonly known as alpha methyl sulfo esters of fatty acids and also particularly ethylene oxide reaction products; the reaction products of fatty acids such as coconut fatty acids esterified with isethionic acid and neutralized with sodium hydroxide; sodium and potassium salts of fatty acid amides of methyl taurine; alkane monosulfonates such as those derived from reacting alpha-olefins (C8-C20) with sodium bisulfite and those derived from reacting paraffins with SO2 and Cl2 and then hydrolyzing with a base to produce a random sulfonate; and olefin sulfonates which term is used to describe the material made by reacting olefins, particularly C10-C20 alpha-olefins, with SO3 and then neutralizing and hydrolyzing the reaction product. The preferred anionic surfactants are (C10-C18) alkyl polyethoxy (1-11 Eo) sulfates and mixtures thereof having differing water solubilities.
Suitable nonionic surfactants used in the instant compositions include, in particular, the reaction products of compounds having a hydrophobic group and a reactive hydrogen atom, for example aliphatic alcohols, acids, amides and alkyl phenols with alkylene oxides, especially ethylene oxide, either alone or with propylene oxide. Specific nonionic surfactant compounds are alkyl (C6-C18) primary or secondary linear or branched alcohols condensed with ethylene oxide, and products made by condensation of ethylene oxide with the reaction products of propylene oxide and ethylenediamine. [Other so-called nonionic surfactant compounds include long chain tertiary amine oxides, long-chain tertiary phosphine oxides, dialkyl sulfoxides, fatty (C8-C18) esters of glycerol, sorbitan and the like, alkyl polyglycosides, ethoxylated glycerol esters, ethyoxylated sorbitans and ethoxylated phosphate esters.]
The preferred non-ionic surfactant compounds are those of the ethoxylated and mixed ethyoxylated-propyloxylated (C12-C15), (C12-C14) (C14-C16) fatty alcohol or synthetic alcohol, containing 6 to 11 ethylene oxide (EO) groups.
The Zeolite MAP used in the instant compositions is defined as an alkali metal aluminosilicate of the zeolite P type having a silicon to aluminum ratio not greater than 1.33, preferably within the range of from 0.9 to 1.33, and more preferably within the range of 0.9 to 1.2. Of especial interest is zeolite MAP having a silicon to aluminum ratio not greater than 1.15; and zeolite MAP having a silicon to aluminum ratio not greater than 1.07 is especially preferred. Although zeolite MAP like other zeolites contains water of hydration, for the purposes of the present invention amounts and percentages of zeolite are generally expressed in terms of the notional anhydrous material. The amount of water present in hydrated zeolite MAP at ambient temperature and humidity is normally about 20 wt. %. Zeolite MAP generally has a calcium binding capacity of at least 150 mg CaO per g of anhydrous aluminosilicate, as measured by the standard method described in GB1473201 (Henkel) and also described, as xe2x80x9cMethod Ixe2x80x9d in EP384070A (Unilever). The calcium binding capacity is normally at least 160 mg CaO/g and may be as high as 170 mg CaO/g. Zeolite MAP also generally has an xe2x80x9ceffective calcium binding capacityxe2x80x9d measured as described under xe2x80x9cMethod IIxe2x80x9d in EP384070A (Unilever) of at least 145 mg CaO/g, preferably at least 150 mg CaO/g.
Preferred zeolite MAP for use in the present invention is especially finely divided and has a d50 (as defined below) within the range of from 2.3 from 5.0 micrometers, more preferably at least 2.4 to 2.7 micrometer, more preferably at least 2.4 micrometers. The quantity xe2x80x9cd50xe2x80x9d indicates that 50 wt. % of the particles have a diameter smaller than that figure. The preferred zeolite MAP has a moisture content of 17 wt. % to 23 wt. %, preferably at least 20 wt. % and a liquid (liquid is A2 type nonionic) carrying capacity of at least 65 wt. %, preferably at least 67 wt. %.
Various methods of measuring particle size are known, and all give slightly different results. In the present specification, the particle size distributions and average values (by weight) quotes were measured by means of a Sedigraph 5100.
Advantageously, but not essentially, the zeolite MAP may have not only a small average particle size, but may also contain a low proportion, or even be substantially free, of large particles. Thus the particle size distribution may advantageously be such that at least 90 wt. % and preferably at least 95 wt. % are smaller than 10 micrometers; at least 85 wt. % and preferably at least 90 wt. % are small than 6 micrometers; and at least,80 wt. % and preferably at least 85 wt. % are smaller than 5 micrometers.
The zeolite MAP in the instant composition is used in conjunction with other inorganic or organic builders. Inorganic builders that may be present include the sodium carbonate. Organic builders that may be present include polycarboxylate polymers such as polyacrylates, acrylic/maleic copolymers, and acrylic phosphonates; monomeric polycarboxylates such as citrates, gluconates, oxydisuccinates, glycerol mono-, di- and trisuccinates, carboxymethyloxysuccinates, carboxymmethyloxymalonates, dipicolinates, hydroxyethyliminodiacetates, alkyl- and alkenylmalonates and succinates; and sulphonated fatty acid salts. This list is not intended to be exhaustive. Builders, both inorganic and organic, are preferably present in alkali metal salt, especially sodium salt, form.
The alkali metal silicate such as sodium or potassium silicate used in the instant compositions are generally added in the form of an aqueous solution, preferably having Na2O:SiO2 ratios of about 1:1.3 to about 1.28 and K2O:SiO2 ratios of about 1:2.0 to about 1:2.6.
The polyacrylate type polymer used in the instant compositions as a calcium sequestering agent is selected from the group consisting of a sodium or potassium salt of a copolymer of polyacrylic acid and maleic anhydride having a molecular weight of about 1,000 to about 5,000 such as AlCo(trademark) AR978 sold by Alco Chemical and Alcosperse(trademark) 412 sold by Alco Chemical which is a terpolymer of polyacrylic acid, maleic anhydride and polyacrylamide. This terpolymer which has a molecular weight of about 1,000 to about 6,000 is characterized by the formula:
wherein a+b+c=1; axe2x89xa7b+c; and cxe2x89xa60.1.
The detergent composition may also contain one or more enzymes which are active against biodegradable stains, e.g., starches, vegetable and blood, and which are also active at a pH of about 5 to about 12. Preferred enzymes which may be used include amylolytic enzymes (alpha amylases), alkaline and neutral proteases, lipolases, cellulases and the like, and mixtures thereof.
Alkaline or neutral proteolytic enzymes suitable for the present composition include the various commercial liquid enzyme preparations which have been adapted for use in detergent compositions. Enzyme preparations in powdered form are also useful although, as a general rule, less convenient for incorporation into a built liquid detergent composition. Thus, suitable liquid enzyme preparations include xe2x80x9cAlcalasexe2x80x9d and xe2x80x9cSavinasexe2x80x9d, trademarked products sold by Novo Industries, Copenhagen, Denmark, and xe2x80x9cPurafectxe2x80x9d and xe2x80x9cProperasexe2x80x9d sold by Genencor, Rochester, N.Y.
Other suitable alpha-amylase liquid enzyme preparations are those sold by Novo Industries and Genencor under the tradenames xe2x80x9cTermamylxe2x80x9d and xe2x80x9cPurastarxe2x80x9d, respectively. Another enzyme preparation which may be used is a powdered enzyme preparation containing alpha-amylase and a mixture of alkaline and neutral proteases available as CRD-Protease from the Monsanto Co. of St. Louis, Mo.
The enzymes are normally present in the detergent composition at a level of from about 0 up to about 3 wt. %, more preferably from about 0.05 to 1.5 wt. %.
The detergent composition may also contain one or more softening components known in the art. Suitable softeners include swelling bentonite clays such as sodium and calcium montmorillonites, sodium saponites and sodium hectorites. These may be present in the detergent composition at levels of from about 0.5 to 20 wt. %, more preferably from about 5 to 15 wt. %.
Other conventional materials may also be present in the liquid detergent compositions of the invention, for example, soil-suspending agent, silicon antifoaming agents and cationic antifoaming agents. Typical cationic antifoaming agents are dimothyl dialkyl (C8-22) ammonium chloride, methyl benzyl dialkyl (C12-18) ammonium chloride and C12-C22 alkyl trimethyl ammonium chloride and mixtures thereof. Typical silicon antifoaming agents are sold by Dow Corning are Q2-3302, 2-3485, 2-4248S and 2200. The composition can also contain sequesterants such as salts of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid or analogous phosphonic acid salts, hydrotropes, corrosion inhibitors, dyes, perfumes, germicides, e.g., preservatives, e.g., quaternium 15, anti-tarnishing agents, buffers and the like. Such other conventional materials may be used in the amounts they are normally used generally up to about 5% by weight, more preferably up to about 3% by weight.
As necessary, pH modifiers, such as water soluble bases, e.g., NaOH, KOH, amines, or ammonia, will be added to obtain the desired pH level. The preferred pH will range from about 8 up to 11, more preferably from about 9 up to less than 11.
Excluded from the instant compositions are zeolites selected from the group consisting of Zeolite A, Zeolite B or Zeolite P (Zeolite B is now known in industry as Zeolite P) having a Si:Al ratio greater than 1.40), Zeolite X, Zeolite Y and Zeolite HS and Zeolite MAP having less 15 wt. % of water of hydration.
The instant compositions are made by an agglomeration process. In the agglomeration process, liquid components can be added to the powder components in several ways. In some cases, the entire liquid portion of the formulation can be added to the powder components in the agglomerator itself (Method 1). In other cases, some of the liquids can be pre-loaded on to a portion or all of the powder components before the final liquid constituents are added in the agglomerator device (Method 2). For this invention, both methods have been employed successfully. Method 2 is preferred.
Using the preferred methods, all or part of the nonionic surfactant mix is loaded onto either MAP zeolite or a combination MAP zeolite and sodium carbonate mix in a suitable liquid/solids mixing device. Examples of such mixing equipment are Ross mixers, Lodige, ribbon or paddle mixers, and Schugi contactors, etc. Surfactant loading can range from 0.1 to 80% of the powder weight. This step allows the surfactant material to be adsorbed by the powder material. Adsorption is a function of time, temperature, porosity, pore size, surfactant size, surface area, mixing energy and capillary action. After application of the surfactant, additional powder materials such as zeolite, sodium carbonate, or other type materials can be added to the mix. In addition, if the entire surfactant component was not initially added, part or all of the remaining surfactant component or other liquid components can be added at this time. The powder/surfactant mix is then mechanically or pneumatically conveyed to a small holding bin or directly into an agglomerator.
In the preferred method, the material is conveyed into a small bin. From this bin, the surfactant/zeolite/carbonate mix is metered and fed into a Schugi type agglomerator, In addition to the surfactant/zeolite/carbonate mix additional powder components can be added to the Schugi or other suitable agglomerator. Examples of such materials (not exclusive) are: brighteners and polymers. In the Schugi agglomerator, liquid polymers, of potentially differing types, and water are added as binders. These materials are added in the appropriate amount to generate the chemical composition and physical properties, i.e., particle size, desired.
From the Schugi agglomerator, the material is conveyed via mechanical device or by gravity to a fluid bed dryer. In this dryer, a combination of hot and cold air is used to dry and condition the material. From the fluid bed dryer, the free flowing material can be used as is or mixed with a variety of materials to form detergents of any composition. Examples of such materials are: detergent or detergent components made via the conventional spray dry process, enzymes, flow aids, perfumes or brighteners.
The detergent compositions of this invention are suitable for use as laundry detergents, dishwasher detergents, shampoos, body lotions and the like and may be modified by inclusion of specific known ingredients to accommodate these applications, e.g., dispersing agents, skin conditioning agents, antidandruff agents and the like.
The detergents of the invention are generally added to wash water at levels in the range of about 0.05 to 0.30 wt. %. For conventional washing machines; powder detergents are preferably used at levels of about 60 to 300 grams per load.

Fabric cleaning composition containing zeolite


A system and method for enabling a snapshot container generated in a copy-on-write backup process to function in the presence of a data-handling system (e.g. a file system) that writes data to the backup disk is provided. The snapshot container, which is read-by and written-to by the system backup application is configured as a read-write container with associated driver. The write data from the backup application is provided to, and stored in the snapshot information container that also receives and stores data from the original read-write container in the manner of a backing store container. Data in the snapshot information container is selectively mapped container as a source, or to backup information container as a source, denoting a backup application write, based upon a bit-map associated with the snapshot driver arrangement. The bit-map designates discrete memory storage block within the container as being mapped to either the original read-write container or as backup write data, denoted as originating within the snapshot information container via the snapshot/backup application.

The invention relates generally to the field of computer systems and more particularly to a system and method for reconfiguring storage devices of a computer system into logical units of storage space on one or more on-line disk drives, typically while the system is in real-time operation.
A computer system includes an operating system whose primary function is the management of hardware and software resources in the computer system. The operating system handles input/output (I/O) requests from software processes or applications to exchange data with on-line external storage devices in a storage subsystem. The applications address those storage devices in terms of the names of files, which contain the information to be sent to or retrieved from them. A file system may be present to translate the file names into logical addresses in the storage subsystem. The operating system forwards I/O requests to an I/O subsystem, which, in turn, converts the logical addresses into physical locations in the storage devices and commands the latter devices to engage in the requested storage or retrieval operations.
The on-line storage devices on a computer are configured from one or more disks into logical units of storage space referred to herein as xe2x80x9ccontainers.xe2x80x9d Examples of containers include volume sets, stripe sets, mirror sets, and various Redundant Array of Independent Disk (RAID) implementations. A volume set comprises one or more physical partitions, i.e., collections of blocks of contiguous space on disks, and is composed of space on one or more disks. Data is stored in a volume set by filling all of the volume""s partitions in one disk drive before using volume partitions in another disk drive. A stripe set is a series of partitions on multiple disks, one partition per disk, that is combined into a single logical volume. Data stored in a stripe set is evenly distributed among the disk drives in the stripe set. In its basic configuration, a stripe set is also known as a xe2x80x9cRAID 0xe2x80x9d configuration. A mirror set is composed of volumes on multiple disks, whereby a volume on one disk is a duplicate copy of an equal sized volume on another disk in order to provide data redundancy. A basic configuration for a mirror set is known as xe2x80x9cRAID 1.xe2x80x9d There is often a desire to increase data reliability in a stripe set by using parity distributed across storage blocks with respect to each stripe. Where such parity is provided to the stripe set, the configuration is known as xe2x80x9cRAID 5.xe2x80x9d In an even more complex implementation, where stripe sets are mirrored on a plurality of containersxe2x80x94and redundant data is distributed across the stripes, the resulting configuration is known as xe2x80x9cRAID 10.xe2x80x9d Generally speaking, all configurations of the RAID implementation (RAID 0-10) provide a collection of partitions, where each partition is composed of space from one disk in order to support data redundancy.
According to a prior system, the I/O subsystem configures the containers through a software entity called a xe2x80x9ccontainer manager.xe2x80x9d Essentially the container manager sets up a mapping structure to efficiently map logical addresses received from the file system to physical addresses on storage devices. The I/O subsystem also includes a software driver for each type of container configuration on the system. These drivers use the mapping structure to derive the physical addresses, which they then pass to the prospective storage devices for storage and retrieval operations.
Specifically, when the computer system is initially organized, the I/O subsystem""s container manager configures the containers and maintains the configuration tables in a container layer of the I/O subsystem. In accordance with a co-pending related U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/964,304, entitled, File Array Storage Architecture by Richard Napolitano et al., now U.S. Pat. No. 6,219,693, the container layer of the I/O subsystem comprises a Device Switch Table, a Container Array, and a Partition Table. The teachings of this application are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The Device Switch table consists of entries, each of which ordinarily points to the entry point of a container driver that performs I/O operations on a particular type of container. The Container Array is a table of entries, each of which ordinarily points to data structures used by a container driver. There is a fixed one-to-one relationship between the Device Switch Table and the Container Array. The Partition Table contains partition structures copied from disk drives for each container on the system. Each Partition Table entry points to one physical disk drive and allows the container driver to access physical location in the on-line storage devices.
When a software process issues an I/O request, the operating system accepts the I/O request and translates it into an I/O request bound for a particular device. The operating system sends the I/O request which includes, inter alia, a block number for the first block of data requested by the application and also a pointer to a Device Switch Table entry which points to a container driver for the container where the requested data is stored. The container driver accesses the Container Array entry for pointers to the data structures used in that container and to Partition Table entries for that container. Based on the information in the data structures, the container driver also accesses Partition Table entries to obtain the starting physical locations of the container on the storage devices. Based on the structures pointed to by the Container Array entry and partition structures in the Partition Table, the container driver sends the I/O request to the appropriate disk drivers for access to the disk drives.
In prior systems, the containers are configured during the initial computer setup and can not be reconfigured during I/O processing without corrupting currently processing I/O requests. As storage needs on a computer system change, the system administrators may need to reconfigure containers to add disks to them or remove disks from them, partition disks drives to form new containers, and/or increase the size of existing containers. If containers are reconfigured during I/O processing in the I/O subsystem, the reconfiguration may corrupt or erase the currently processing I/O requests. However, shutting down the system to reconfigure containers may be unacceptable for businesses that require high availability, i.e., twenty-four hours/seven days a week on-line activity.
One aspect of the system described herein is the routing of I/O requests in the I/O subsystem to a different container than previously pointed to by the operating system. On-line storage devices are configured from on one or more disks into logical units of storage space referred to herein as xe2x80x9ccontainers.xe2x80x9d Containers are created and maintained by a software entity called the xe2x80x9ccontainer manager.xe2x80x9d Each type of container on the system has an associated driver, which processes system requests on that type of container. After a complete backup operation, the backup program verifies the backed up files to make sure that the files on the secondary storage device (usually a tape) were correctly backed up. One problem with the backup process is that files may change during the backup operation.
To avoid backing up files modified during the backup process and to enable applications to access files during the backup operation, the container manager periodically (e.g. once a day) performs a procedure that takes a xe2x80x9csnapshotxe2x80x9d or copy of each read-write container whereby, the container manager creates a read-only container which looks like a copy of the data in the read-write container at a particular instant in time. Thereafter, the container manager performs a xe2x80x9ccopy-on-writexe2x80x9d procedure where an unmodified copy of data in the read-write container is copied to a read-only backup container every time is there is a request to modify data in the read-write container. The container manager uses the copy-on-write method to maintain the snapshot and to enable backup processes to access and back up an unchanging, read-only copy of the on-line data at the instant the snapshot was created. This procedure is described in detail in related co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/963,754, entitled Copy-on-Write with Compaction by Chris Franklin, the teachings of which are also expressly incorporated herein by reference.
During the backup procedure, the container manager creates a xe2x80x9csnapshotxe2x80x9d container, a xe2x80x9csnapshottedxe2x80x9d container and a xe2x80x9cbacking storexe2x80x9d container. After the container manager takes the snapshot, the snapshotted container driver processes all input/output (I/O) requests, to store data in or retrieve data from a read-write container. The snapshotted container driver processes all I/O requests to retrieve data from the read-write container by forwarding them directly to the read-write container driver. However for all I/O requests to modify data in a read-write container, the container manager first determines whether the requested block of data has been modified since the time of the snapshot. If the block has not been modified, the container manager copies the data to the backing store container and then sets an associated bit-map flag in a modified-bit-map table. The modified-bit-map table contains a bit-map with each bit representing one block of data in the read-write container. After setting the modified-bit-map flag, the snapshotted container driver forwards the I/O storage request to the read-write container driver.
When the backup process begins execution, it invokes I/O retrieval requests from the snapshot container. In this example, a file system, which is a component of the operating system, translates the file-oriented I/O request into a logical address and forwards the request to a snapshot container driver. The snapshot container driver checks the associated bit-map in the modified-bit-map table for the requested block of data. If the bit-map is set, the snapshot container driver forwards the request to the backing store container driver to retrieve the unmodified copy of that block from the backing store container. The backing store container driver then processes the backup process retrieval request. If the bit-map is not set, this means that the block has not been modified since the snapshot was created. The snapshot container driver forwards the request to the read-write container driver to retrieve a copy of that block of data from the read-write container. Upon retrieving the file from the backing store container or the read-write container, the backup process backs it up. After a complete backup operation, the container manager deletes the snapshotted container, the snapshot container, the backing store container, and the modified-bit-map table, and thereafter, forwards all I/O requests directly to the read-write container driver.
Many computer systems currently employ the popular Windows(copyright) NT operating system, available from Microsoft of Redmond, Wash., as the framework for the running of resident applications and handling files. The particular file system associated with the NT operating system is termed the NT File System, or NTFS. NTFS, in its current version, is designed to work in conjunction with a backup facility generally configured to backup back to the original read-write storage disk. In doing so, it employs a write function to the disk for purposes of, for example marking and/or archive bit handling. Accordingly, there is a significant disadvantage to conventional snapshot arrangements, that generate a read-only snapshot container, when operating in an NT environment. Simply stated, the NTFS will not accept a disk container to which it cannot write (e.g. the read-only snapshot is unacceptable). Rather than performing the desired backup finction, the NTFS, when accessing a read-only snapshot, returns an incompatible disk error message.
There may be other instances, such as in a database, where the ability to write to a snapshot container is also desired. Thus, even where a file system is absent, it is sometimes desirable to provide a write capability to a snapshot.
Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to enable a snapshot backup to be created so that it can operate in conjunction with a system that performs both read and write operations to a disk during backup.
This invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a system and method for enabling a snapshot container generated in a copy-on-write backup process to function in the presence of a file system, or other data handling system (operating in, for example, a database environment), that writes data to the backup disk. The snapshot container, which is read-by and written-to by the file system backup application is configured as a read-write container with associated driver. The write data from the backup application is provided to, and stored in the snapshot information container that also receives and stores data from the original read-write container in the manner of a backing store container. Data in the snapshot information container is selectively mapped (on a storage block-by-storage block basis) to either the original read-write container as a source, or to backup information container as a source, denoting upon a backup application write within the storage block, based upon a bit-map associated with the snapshot driver arrangement. The bit-map designates discrete memory storage block within the container as being mapped to either the original read-write container or as backup write data, denoted as originating within the snapshot information container via the snapshot/backup application. A file system, according to one example, can comprise an NTFS file system.

System and method for disk control with snapshot feature including read-write snapshot half


A dual use desk for use with a monitor and keyboard, the desk having a retracting lid section conforming to a lid opening in the front edge of the desktop, the lid retraction mechanism consisting of the lid being hingedly attached to commonly available linear drawer sliders mounted at a rearward sloping angle below the desktop. The lid is retracted with a simple front edge tilt up, and slide back motion, to expose a lower level keyboard tray. The keyboard tray may be extendible outward as well, and may have an accessory tray attached, which is exposed for access when the lid is retracted and the keyboard extended. Alternative configurations permit a monitor to be located below desktop level, visible when the lid is retracted and the keyboard extended.

The invention relates to desks and work stations that are convertible between a conventional working surface and configurations suitable for using a keyboard. In particular, the invention relates to designs and mechanisms suitable for integrating and operating a removable desktop section for access to a keyboard.
The conventional office desk pre-dates the personal computer by more than a few years. The prime real estate or region of the desktop that is most important is that directly in front of the seated user, immediately accessible with hands and eyes without a stretch or a head movement, such as when reading, writing, or typing.
When personal computers first appeared on the scene, users simply placed them on their existing desks; the monitor on the back edge of the desk, the keyboard in front of the monitor. Many new computer users still try this first. However, it soon becomes evident that a conventional desk has serious disadvantages in a dual use in that the usual placement of the keyboard precludes the primary or alternative use of the desktop as a writing or working surface. Further, the keyboard, setting on the desktop is generally not at a comfortable height for typing.
Many attempts have been made to overcome these basic problems. Most of these designs can be loosely categorized into two general forms; dedicated computer desks, and dual purpose desks. An example of a dedicated computer desk design is a desk with an open section in the front edge of the desktop into which a keyboard shelf has been attached, typically a few inches below the level of the desktop. This design puts the keyboard at a comfortable height but does not provide a writing surface.
An example of a dual use desk is one modified to provide a pull-out tray from under the desktop for a keyboard, which can be stowed below the desktop level when not in use. This leaves the desktop free for other purposes, but requires the user to push back his chair and sit at an inconvenient distance from the desk and computer monitor. Another example provides an opening in the desktop which allows the keyboard to be located on a shelf below the desktop, and which can be covered by a hinged lid when the keyboard is not in use. The lid occupies space elsewhere on the desktop when hinged away from the opening, and may even obscure the viewing screen of the computer monitor.
Other examples of dual use desks provide openings in the desktop covered by lids which can be lowered and pushed along multiple branched tracks below the desktop. These require the manufacture of complex, multiple and/or branched tracks specifically designed to allow the lid to be moved from the lower to the higher track, for example. They may also require springs to raise the lids and special pins to engage the tracks. There are also designs with openings in the desktop covered by lids which can be lowered or raised by geared mechanisms. These also are an expensive and cumbersome solution.
There are many desk designs which provide facilities for housing computer equipment, including monitors, below the level of the desktop. These keep the desktop generally free for other uses and may allow viewing of a screen at a low angle.
The patents listed below may provide further useful context for appreciating the material that follows:
Lechman""s U.S. Pat. No. 5,626,323, issued May 6, 1997, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,662,395, issued Sep. 2, 1997, disclose an adjustable keyboard holder for a computer desk. It uses a sliding rail system with special, independently hinged link and roller assemblies, connecting the keyboard holder to the rails, so that the keyboard slid to an extended position in front of the desktop and be manipulated into a range of sloping attitudes and then locked into that position.
Wolters et al""s U.S. Pat. No. 4,766,422, issued Aug. 23, 1988, describes a computer integrated desk where the desktop pad is linked to a custom keyboard mechanism such that pushing back on the desktop pad, which normally covers an opening in the desktop, brings a concealed keyboard from a stowed position under the desk into an extended position at the front edge of the desktop. The mechanism is complex and unique.
Stefan""s U.S. Pat. No. 4,828,342, issued May 9, 1989, discloses a split desktop with over and under sliding capability that permits equipment to be elevated from beneath the desk to desktop level, and permits the exposure or covering of a recessed keyboard at the front edge of the desk. The sliding mechanism consists of a custom design, split level channel system in which several support pins attached to the two desk top sections travel. Over travel of the front section to a front edge outboard position provides clearance to permit the rear section to be slid from desktop level to a lower level and vice versa. The keyboard holder is illustrated as stationary.
Naess et al""s U.S. Pat. No. 4,145,097, issued Mar. 20, 1979, discloses a computer desk with a slidable keyboard holder and a stowable front section providing access to a keyboard on the keyboard holder when it is extended. The custom mechanism for stowing the removable piece of the desk top is clearly disclosed. It utilizes front and back edge pins on each side of the removable piece, and a left and right side pin channel mechanism in which the pins are engaged. Each channel has a common lower level horizontal sliding section by which the removable section can be stowed underneath the back portion of the desktop, and separate front and rear C sections of channel, the dimensions of provide for lifting and setting the removable piece by its pins at a desktop level at the front of the desk. The keyboard holder is similarly configured with pins, but has a horizontal channel track with a Y component that permits the front edge of the keyboard holder to be elevated with respect to the back edge, providing more knee clearance under the desktop when the keyboard is stowed.
In summary, prime desktop space and all usable space within arms reach of the seated user being at a premium, the general problem lies in finding ways to increase the utility and efficiency of the space available in a person""s desk. Computers and keyboards now being essential to many user""s daily activities, the desk must function as a computer work station, and in combination or alternatively as a conventional desktop for other activities. As is demonstrated by the prior art, the problem has been addressed many times in many ways.
However, a review of the prior art makes it clear that there is a requirement for a simpler design for a dual purpose or convertible desktop feature; a design that is easily and quickly switchable by the user, between one or more desktop configurations permitting access to a keyboard for keyboard operations, and one providing maximum desktop space for other activities. What is needed is a design for a convertible desktop feature that incorporates an inexpensive and commonly available transport mechanism; a design that is easily implemented in desks of various architectures and construction; and a design that is also suitable for kit desk designs intended for user assembly. It is this need to which the instant invention is directed.
The present invention is basically a dual use desk with a sliding desktop section and retraction system which provides a free area of desktop when in the raised position and access to a keyboard or accessory tray when in the retracted position. The lid slides below the desktop at a shallow angle. This characteristic is achieved by the use of conventional drawer slides in combination with a simple hinge or hinges providing a lateral hinge line between the top end of the slider and the desktop section. Drawer slides and hinges suitable for use with the design are readily available xe2x80x9coff the shelfxe2x80x9d from virtually thousands of manufacturers and outlets. The design is easy and light in use and provides a very quick, convenient and inexpensive means of changing from keyboard access to working surface from moment to moment. It allows the user to sit close to the desk and viewing screen and does not require him to change his position to use a writing surface.
The sliding lid system may be used in conjunction with a conventional pull-out keyboard tray. The sliding lid moves independently of the keyboard. The combination of retracted lid and pulled-out keyboard tray creates a visible open space behind the pulled-out tray which provides for the normally unused space below the desktop to be used for a number of purposes including shelves, CPU, or an electronic display unit or viewing screen arranged with its viewing angle visible between the stowed lid and the extended keyboard tray.
Alternately, a drawer may be installed behind the keyboard tray and coupled to the tray so that it moves with it. Because the sliding lid provides an opening in the desktop the drawer is accessible when it is pulled forward by the tray.
The sliding lid system does not obscure or interfere with anything on the desktop. It does not require any specially-made components and it is suitable for incorporation into any common desk configuration or design, including kit designs which are assembled by the retail purchaser at the point of use.

Desk with sliding top section and keyboard tray