TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates to the field of machines directed towards maintenance of hygiene and alike purposes. In particular, the present subject matter relates to a machine that allows a user to wash their hands more hygienically without touching the machine

BACKGROUND

[0002] Public washrooms and lavatories carry with them certain notions. One very popular notion being that public washrooms and lavatories lack decent hygiene. Hygiene does not mean only the lavatories of the washroom are clean; it also means that the entirety of the washroom is clean, including the wash basin as well as the tap of the wash basin, which a user needs to touch before and after washing their hands. Some users refrain from touching these wash basins and taps due to the valid reason of taking precautions against disease carrying germs and bacteria. These users are the kind that are very mindful of the hygiene and usually carry with themselves portable hand sanitizer containers. However, in an event that they forget to carry the hand sanitizer container or the hand sanitizer container is exhausted, they are forced to touch the wash basin and taps, which is not desired. Furthermore, a disadvantageous aspect of using a hand sanitizer is that a hand sanitizer only kills the harmful bacteria and does not clean them off of the hands. [0003] It is desired that no person, whether mindful of personal hygiene or not, should be required to touch any such surface in the washroom or the lavatory that may pose of the risk of hosting disease causing germs and bacteria.

[0004] In view of the same, there is a great need for a hand wash machine that has a touch free configuration with simple and easy handling and which is capable to overcome above mentioned drawbacks of the existing hand wash machines. SUMMARY

[0005] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure.

[0006] The present disclosure envisages a touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine. The machine is user & environment friendly. In accordance with one embodiment, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine comprises a hand wash section comprising a wash basin and a tap, the tap is in fluid communication with a fresh water source; a wiping means storage section configured operatively above the hand wash section; a drying means configured adjacent the wiping means storage section; a recreational or educational item storage space configured operatively above the hand wash section adjacent the drying means; a sanitary product dispenser section having a product storage space and a product dispensation space, wherein the product storage space is provided access on an operative rear side of the multipurpose sanitization machine, and the product dispensation space is provided access at an operative front side of the machine; a sanitary product storage interface unit comprising at least one interface input unit and at least one interface output unit; an information presentation section configured operatively above the sanitary product dispenser section; a currency deposition unit configured on the machine; an interactive communication display configured on the machine for allowing a user to interact with the machine, the interactive communication display configure operatively above the hand wash section and operatively below a mirror; and a processing unit configured to govern operation of the machine based on pre-fed program.

^■ In one aspect of the present disclosure, the fresh water source is a fresh water tank configured operatively below the hand wash section for supplying water to the tap. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises a grey water recycling tank configured operatively below the hand wash section and in fluid communication with the wash basin.

In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises a filter configured upstream of the grey water recycling tank and downstream of the wash basin.

In further aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises an overflow tank in fluid communication with the grey water recycling tank, and wherein the grey water tank is in fluid communication with the fresh water tank.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises an online heater configured on a line connecting the fresh water tank to the tap.

In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises a pedal operated hydraulic ramp configured to move along an operative vertical path on the machine between pre-defined limits.

In further aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises a foldable stool provided on the machine.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises a dust bin configured operatively below the hand wash section.

In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the sanitary product dispenser section is configured to store sanitary pads and tampons.

In further aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one interface input unit is a keyboard and the at least one interface output unit is a display.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises a solar panel disposed on an operative top surface of the machine. ^■ In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises a ventilation section configured on the machine.

^■ In further aspect of the present disclosure, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine further comprises a moisture capturing unit for capturing moisture from atmosphere to be recycled for reuse.

[0007] These and other features and advantages of the present subject matter will become more readily apparent from the attached drawings and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which follow. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] The present subject matter is hereinafter described with reference to non-limiting accompanying drawings mentioned below:

Fig. 1 illustrates a front view of a touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of a touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 3 illustrates rear side view of a touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 4 illustrates another rear side view of a touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

Fig. 5 illustrates yet another rear side view of a touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] The present subject matter envisages a touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine. The machine, as envisaged in the present disclosure, is a machine that includes the usage of proximity sensors for triggering the operation of one or more taps employed on the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine. Such usage eliminates the need of having to touch the tap employed on the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine. Additionally, the touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine, as envisaged in the present disclosure, includes a sanitary product dispenser, wherein the sanitary product dispenser is configured to contain and dispense toiletary or public products, and sanitary products such as tampons sanitary/menstrual pads and other similar products.

[0010] In the present specification the word "comprise", or variations thereof, such as "comprises" or "comprising", imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

[0011] Further, the use of the expression "at least" or "at least one" suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use can be in the embodiment of the present subject matter to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results. [0012] Reference is hereinafter directed to Figs. 1 through Fig. 4. A touchfree multipurpose sanitization machine 100 (hereinafter interchangeably referred to as machine 100). The machine 100 comprises a processing unit 102 for governing the operation of the machine 100. The processing unit 102, in accordance with one embodiment, may include any conventionally known processor and a repository for storing one or more operational programs for operating the machine 100 in one or more operating modes. The machine 100 is user and environment friendly. [0013] The machine 100 further comprises a hand wash section 104, wherein the hand wash section 104 comprises a wash basin 104A and a tap 104B. In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hand wash section 104 comprises a plurality of proximity sensors coupled to the processing unit 102 to sense the presence of an object in the proximity of the tap 104B for facilitating automatic actuation of the tap 102B. In one embodiment, the tap 104B is in fluid communication with a fresh water source. In accordance with one embodiment, the fresh water source may be a fresh water pipeline connected to a city water supply network. In another embodiment, the fresh water source may be a fresh water tank 104C coupled to the machine 100 for ensuring a continuous water supply to the machine 100. In one embodiment, the fresh water tank 104C is configured operatively below the hand wash section 104 for supplying water to the tap 104B. In one embodiment, the hand wash section 104 further comprises a liquid soap container 104D (as seen in Figs. 4 and 5).

[0014] The machine 100 further comprises a wiping means storage section 106 configured operatively above the hand wash section 104. In one embodiment, the wiping means storage section 106 may be a shelf containing hand wiping means placed therewithin. In one embodiment, the hand wiping means may be tissue paper. In another embodiment, the wiping means storage section 106 may be a shelf for holding a wiping means dispenser therewithin. In another embodiment, the wiping means dispenser may be a tissue paper roll dispenser.

[0015] The machine 100 further comprises a drying means 108 configured adjacent the wiping means storage section 106. In one embodiment, the drying means 108 is an air based hand dryer configured to blow hot air of the hand once the hand is placed operatively below the drying means 108. In one embodiment, the drying means 108 is disposed operatively below the wiping means storage section 106.

[0016] The machine 100 may further include a recreational item storage space 110 configured operatively above the hand wash section 104 adjacent the drying means 108. One example of the recreational item that can be stored in the recreational item storage space 110 is a plant. [0017] The machine 100 further comprises a sanitary product dispenser section 112 having a product storage space 112A and a product dispensation space 112B, wherein the product storage space 112A is provided access on an operative rear side of the machine 100, and the product dispensation space 112B is provided access at an operative front side of the machine. In one embodiment, the product storage space 112A may be configured to store at least one of tampons and sanitary/menstrual pads. The machine 100 further comprises a sanitary product storage interface unit 114 comprising at least one interface input unit 114A and at least one interface output unit 114B. In accordance with one embodiment, the at least one interface input unit 114A is at least one of a keyboard and a touchscreen display, and the at least one interface output unit 114B is a display. In another embodiment, the at least one interface input unit 114A and the at least one output unit 114B is a voice activated input unit configured to receive audio commands and provide audio responses as well.

[0018] The machine 100 further comprises an information presentation section 116 configured operatively above the sanitary product dispenser section 112. The information presentation section 116 may be configured to display advertisements as well as instructions of operating the machine 100, in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] The machine 100 further comprises a currency deposition unit 118 configured on the machine 100. The currency deposition unit 118 is configured to receive currency for dispensing the sanitary product from the sanitary product dispenser section 112. The machine 100 further comprises an interactive communication display 120 configured on the machine 100 for allowing a user to interact with the machine 110, wherein the interactive communication display 120 is configured operatively above the hand wash section 104 and operatively below a mirror 122. In an alternative embodiment, the currency deposition unit 118 may be replaced with a finance card reader unit. In yet another alternative embodiment, the machine 100 can include both the currency deposition unit and the finance card reader unit. In an embodiment, the finance card reader may be configured to read either a credit card or a debit card. The currency may be deposited in the machine 100 for allowing a user to either use the machine 100 to wash their hands or to purchase any of the sanitary products that the machine 100 has to offer. More specifically, the machine 100 may be operated only when a currency deposition has been made.

[0020] In another embodiment, the machine 100 further comprises a grey water recycling tank 124 configured operatively below the hand wash section 104 and in fluid communication with the wash basin 104A. More specifically, the grey water recycling tank 124 is in fluid communication with the tap 104B of the wash basin 104A. The grey water recycling tank 124 facilitates the reuse of the grey water after necessary treatment, which can be done to save water; particularly in places where the water supply is insufficient.

[0021] The grey water recycling tank 124 is in fluid communication with a filter 124A configured upstream of the grey water recycling tank 124 and downstream of the wash basin 104A. The filter facilitates the filtration of the grey water, thereby making said grey water suitable for reuse. [0022] The machine 100 further comprises an overflow tank 126 in fluid communication with the grey water recycling tank 124, and wherein the grey water recycling tank 124 is in fluid communication with the fresh water tank 104C. More specifically, all of the three tanks are in fluid communication with an adjacent tank so as to prevent overflow of water outside the three tanks. [0023] In accordance with another embodiment, the machine 100 further comprises an online heater 128 configured on a line connecting the fresh water tank to the tap 104B. The online heater 128 facilitates the provision of hot water for washing the hands, which may be required in places of extreme colds.

[0024] In accordance with another embodiment, the machine 100 further comprises a pedal operated hydraulic ramp 130 configured to move along an operative vertical path on the machine 100 between pre-defined limits. In another embodiment, the machine 100 further comprises a foldable stool 132 provided on the machine 100. [0025] The provision of the hydraulic ramp 130 and the foldable stool 132 allows children as well as individuals suffering from growth restricting disorders, senior citizens, or any other persons requiring assistance to easily use the machine 100 for washing their hands. [0026] In another embodiment, the machine 100 further comprises a dust bin

134 configured operatively below the hand wash section 104. The dust bin 134 may be used to collect the used tissues as well as the packaging of the sanitary products.

[0027] In another embodiment, the machine 100 further comprises a solar panel 136 disposed on an operative top surface of the machine 100. The solar panel 136 may be employed on machines 100 that are deployed in the open, where they may get exposed to the sunlight. Other embodiments of the machine 100 deployable in closed environment may be configured to operate using power from the grid or have a battery operated configuration.

[0028] In another embodiment, the machine 100 further comprises a ventilation section 138 configured on the machine 100. The ventilation section 138 facilitates the escape of water vapour and other gaseous matter formed within the machine 100. In one embodiment, the ventilation section 138 may be made of resilient nets made of polymeric materials.

[0029] In another embodiment, the machine 100 further comprises a moisture capturing unit 140 for capturing moisture from atmosphere to be recycled for reuse. More specifically, a moisture capturing means 142 is configured on the top of the machine 100 adjacent the solar panel 136 for capturing the moisture from the air and supplying the same to the moisture capturing unit 140 and then to the grey water tank .

[0030] It is to be noted that the machine 100, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, facilitates saving of water by maximizing the grey water reutilization as well as capturing the water vapour present in the atmosphere. It has been observed that the machine 100 facilitates saving of at least 1.5 liters of water per hand wash relative to the conventional hand wash methodologies. As such, the machine 100 is user friendly and environmental friendly. The provision of a solar panel 136 on the machine 100 facilitates the substantial self-sustainability of the machine 100. [0031] The machine 100 can be placed within or just outside of any form of public lavatories or places such as public and/or domestic kitchens, operation theatres, railway station, hospitals, markets, event establishments, or any other such places for its uses. The use of the machine 100, therefore, contributes to a reduced water and carbon footprint. The machine 100 is capable of generating revenues for the government and/or any private organization in the premises of which the hand wash machine 100 is installed. The machine 100 has a self-sustaining configuration which makes utilization of renewable sources of energy to the fullest instead of or in addition to conventional energy sources. The machine 100 reduces the wastage of water by promoting grey water usage. [0032] Different characteristics and beneficial particulars are unfolded fully with reference to the embodiments/aspects which are exemplified in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the preceding description. Descriptions of techniques, methods, components, and equipment that a person skilled in the art is well aware of or those form common general knowledge in the field pertaining to the present disclosure is not described and/or introduced for the purpose of focusing on the present subject matter of the present disclosure and not to obscure the present subject matter and advantageous features thereof. At the same time the present subject matter of the present disclosure and its features that are explained herein in the detailed description and the specific examples, are given by way of illustration only, and not by way of limitation. It is to be understood that a person skilled in the art may and can think of various alternative substitutions, modifications, additions, and/or rearrangements which are considered to be within the spirit and/or scope of the underlying inventive concept.