With Container End Overcap Having Actuator Patents (Class 222/402.13)
  • Publication number: 20150001258
    Abstract: According to certain embodiments of the invention, an aerosol trigger actuator may be removably connected to an aerosol container. In some instances, an attachment adapter may be fixed to an aerosol container and a trigger actuator may be configured to snap onto, twist onto, or otherwise attach to the attachment adapter so that the trigger actuator is attached to the container. In other embodiments, an attachment adapter and trigger actuator may be assembled together and then assembled to a container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Steven A. Sell
  • Publication number: 20140361044
    Abstract: A sprayhead (1) for use with an aerosol container (2), comprising a chassis (3) capable of firm attachment to said container (2); a rotatable circular collar (4) located largely around and in close proximity to the chassis (3); and a spray channel (8) and associated actuator button (39), said spray channel (8) being designed to pass through a central aperture (13) in the chassis and being connectable to the central valve stem of an aerosol container (2) with which the sprayhead (1) is designed to be used; the circular collar (4) being rotatable between a first position in which a holding feature (33D) of the collar (4) interacts with a holding feature (15D) of the chassis (3) and a second position; the sprayhead (1) being inoperable when the circular collar (4) is in its first position and operable when the circular collar (4) is in its second position; the holding features (33D) providing rotational resistance to movement between the first and second positions; the circular collar (4) further comprising a pr
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Amit Arora, Kassie Terra-Lynn Betts, Simon Lewis Bilton, Joseph Butler, Christopher John Jones, Garen Kouyoumjian
  • Publication number: 20140361049
    Abstract: A sprayhead (1) for use with an aerosol container (2) comprising a central valve stem, said sprayhead (1) comprising: a chassis (3) attaching to the valve cup of an aerosol container (2); a rotatable circular collar (4) comprising a bridge (16) spanning a diameter of the collar (4); and a spray channel (8) and associated actuator button (39), said spray channel (8) being designed to pass through a central aperture in the bridge (16) spanning a diameter of the collar (4), and being connectable to the central valve stem of an aerosol container (2); the chassis (3) holding the spray channel (8) and actuator button (39) in a non-rotatable manner and the collar (4) being rotatable between operable and inoperable positions; wherein the chassis (3) comprises an annular skirt (14) encircling at least 90% of the circumference of the valve cup and gripping the valve cup such that the torque required to turn the chassis (3) around the valve cup is at least twice that required to turn the rotatable circular collar (4) ar
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Amit Arora, Kassie Terra-Lynn Betts, Simon Lewis Bilton, Joseph Butler, Christopher John Jones, Garen Kouyoumjian
  • Patent number: 8893990
    Abstract: A system, in certain embodiments, includes a spray device including a frame having a receptacle configured to receive a self-contained spray can. The spray device further includes a first conductive element configured to contact the self-contained spray can, and a first electrical conductor extending between the first conductive element and an earth ground such that a first electrical potential of the self-contained spray can is substantially equal to a second electrical potential of the earth ground while the self-contained spray can is in contact with the first conductive element. The spray device also includes a corona-charging electrode positioned adjacent to a spray nozzle of the self-contained spray can. The corona-charging electrode is configured to emit a stream of ions toward the self-contained spray can such that a spray of fluid from the spray nozzle passes through the stream of ions and becomes electrostatically charged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Finishing Brands Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Seitz, Daniel J. Hasselschwert, Roger T. Cedoz, James P. Baltz, Jessica Rose Bryant
  • Patent number: 8893933
    Abstract: Disclosed is an inverted constant-volume injection mechanism using an actuator which comprises a valve member (5), a movable member (6), a pressing-on operation member (7), and a pressing operation lever (8). On the basis of an operation by a user to hold a container main body and press the pressing-on operation member (7) onto the scalp (13) or a pressing operation by the pressing operation lever (8), first, output valves (5a, 7d) of the actuator art closed and a flow-in valve (4b) of a stem (4) is opened so that the content in the container main body flows into a constant amount chamber (A) defined between the flow-in valve (4b) to the output valves (5a, 7d).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Mitani Valve Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuo Ohshima
  • Patent number: 8887963
    Abstract: A universal yoke for actuating an actuation head of a canister is provided. The universal yoke can include a plurality of support ribs, an actuating nub including a first triggering surface, and an actuating tab including a second triggering surface. The plurality of support ribs can be arranged to nest with a plurality of differently shaped top portions of canisters. Either one of the first triggering surface and the second triggering surface can be arranged to independently actuate an actuation head of a nested canister top portion when the canister is forced into contact with the universal yoke. The universal yoke can be implemented with a dispensing device capable of cradling various-sized canisters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventors: Aziz Zizoune, Breana Therese Murphy
  • Patent number: 8881944
    Abstract: An overcap for a volatile material dispenser includes a housing adapted to be mounted on a container. The container has a valve stem with a discharge end. The overcap includes a valve-connecting portion adapted to engage the valve stem and a fixture that extends from the valve-connecting portion. The overcap further includes a trigger attached to the housing by a hinge that is disposed at or below a plane formed by the fixture. A contact portion is disposed in the trigger for interacting with the fixture and applying pressure to the valve-connecting portion to actuate the valve stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward L. Paas, Lawrence J. Kelly, William W. Wichman
  • Patent number: 8870036
    Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for use with a pressurized container having a push valve. The dispensing apparatus includes an enclosure adapted to enclose at least a portion of the pressurized container. A pour actuator is movable between a released position and an actuated position, and controls a plunger. When the pour actuator is moved to the actuated position, the plunger depresses the push valve of the pressurized container to permit contents of the pressurized container to be dispensed out of the dispensing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Koolatron Corporation
    Inventors: Arun Kulkarni, Leonardo Aldana
  • Patent number: 8863995
    Abstract: The invention relates to a spray cap for placement on top of an aerosol container of the type that has a spray valve disposed at the top of the container and a valve stem extending upwardly therefrom for actuating the valve. The spray cap comprises a cap body with a spray nozzle and a tubular member defining a spray channel arranged within the cap body. The spray channel on one end is in communication with the spray nozzle. The tubular member has a first portion which is hingedly attached to the cap body in a region adjacent the spray nozzle. The tubular member furthermore has a second portion which is angular with the first portion and which, when the spray cap is mounted on a container, extends concentrically with the valve stem of the container and is connected therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Plasticum Group B.V.
    Inventor: Gerrit Jan Stegeman
  • Patent number: 8863994
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dispensing device, particularly a dispensing head proposed for preferably cosmetic liquid. A simple, tightly closing structure of an outlet valve is achieved in that a valve element is injected onto a wall and/or lies thereon with its entire surface or flat surface when the valve is closed and/or the valve element covers an outlet opening on the flat side. Alternatively or in addition, the valve element is pretensioned into a closed position when the valve is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Aptar Dortmund GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Neuhaus, Reiker Canfield, Bernd Blumenstein
  • Patent number: 8839994
    Abstract: Provided is an adapter configured for use with an aerosol can spray nozzle and an extension tube. The adapter is configured to fit onto the spray nozzle and to receive the extension tube to provide a more rigid and fluidly secure connection between the spray nozzle and the extension tube. The adapter includes a spray nozzle portion and an extension tube portion. The spray nozzle portion includes an opening sized and configured to allow the spray nozzle to be insertable therein to create frictional engagement therebetween. The extension tube portion includes an inner channel extending therethrough, and is sized and configured to allow the extension tube to be insertable therein to create friction-tight engagement between the extension tube and the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Tyler S. Mason
  • Patent number: 8840045
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing device is disclosed that is capable of producing two distinct spray patterns. The device may include a rotatable hub having a first barrel for producing a first spray pattern and a second barrel for producing a second spray pattern. The barrels may be oriented in different directions with a predetermined angle between directions, such as approximately 180 degrees. A shell may be coupled to and rotatable with the hub. The shell may include a first portion having a first structural feature corresponding to a characteristic of the first spray pattern and a second portion may having a second structural feature corresponding to a characteristic of the second spray pattern. The structural features inform the user of a characteristic of the spray pattern that will be discharged by the device by the associated barrels, thereby permitting the user to intuitively select the desired spray pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew N. Thurin, Darren K. Robling, Linda Moy Madore, Charles P. Althoff, Hideaki Matsui, Brook S. Kennedy, Stian Tesdal
  • Publication number: 20140231467
    Abstract: An actuator cap (1) for dispensing a fluid product, comprising a rotatable outer body (2), a non-rotatable chassis (4), an actuator button (3) and a spray channel assembly (6), the latter comprising an outlet nozzle (63); the outer body (2) being rotatable relative to the chassis (4) between a first position in which the actuator button (3) is incapable of depression and a second position in which the actuator button (3) is capable of depression, said depression causing release of fluid product from an associated container through the spray channel assembly (6), the actuator cap (1) also comprises rotational tensioning means (34 and/or 12, 24) between the outer body (2) and the chassis (4), said rotational tensioning means (34 and/or 12, 24) serving to ease rotation of the outer body(2) towards its second position when close thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: CONOPCO, INC., D/B/A UNILEVER
    Inventors: Kassie Terra-Lynn Betts, Simon Lewis Bilton, Adrian Barclay Caroen, Christopher John Jones, Garen Kouyoumjian
  • Patent number: 8763865
    Abstract: A novel metering device (1) for dispensing a dose of a pressurized fluid is described. A dispensing valve body (3) is mounted in a fluid-tight manner to the lid (4) of a pressurized container (5), which circumvents a valve element (9). A valve delivery tube (10) is connected to the valve element (9). A chamber (13) surrounds the valve body (3), in which a piston (17) is reciprocable between an upper and a lower position, which define the dispensing dose. A clearance is provided between the piston (17) and the inner wall (23) of the chamber (13), such that pressurized fluid can flow into the chamber based on a pressure difference between the container (5) and the chamber (13), and the piston (17) is adapted to seal the valve body (3) when being in the upper position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: I.P.S. Research and Development B.V.
    Inventors: Eelco De Man, Frank Smits, Wouter Stinesen
  • Patent number: 8733599
    Abstract: A combined cap and actuator device for an aerosol container has a body which is substantially cylindrically-shaped having a receiving portion, an actuating portion, and a waist portion. The body is reversible from an unactuating position wherein the valve of the aerosol container is closed to prevent product flow, to an actuating position wherein the valve is opened to dispense product into the receiving portion. A lid is attachable to seal the receiving portion, actuating portion or base of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Lloyd Hornland
  • Patent number: 8720747
    Abstract: A dispensing device for dispensing compressed fluid from a can through a valve stem of the can has a hollow tube with a channel extending through it from an entrance end to an opposing dispensing end, a connector defining a conduit therethrough that is in fluid communication with the channel of the hollow tube and that attaches to a valve stem of a can, a plug located within the channel of the hollow tube that forms a sealing configuration within the channel when pressed towards the dispensing end of the channel, and a sleeve that wraps at least partially around the hollow tube and that has a protrusion that upon activating the sleeve extends through the dispensing end of the hollow tube and prevents the plug from establishing a sealing configuration with the hollow tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Dow Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Mary M. Hoagland, Peter J. Schulz, Christopher J. Siler
  • Publication number: 20140124539
    Abstract: An actuator (18, 18?) is provided for actuating a valve (16) on a container (14) for dispensing a fluent product. The actuator (18, 18?) includes an exterior housing (40, 40?) and a rotatable member (42, 42?). The rotatable member (42, 42?) is located in an interior chamber (48) of the housing (40, 40?) and includes an engageable surface (54) located in a circumferentially extending window (50) of the housing (40, 40?) to be engaged by a user for movement of the engageable surface (54) within the window (50) between a locked position wherein movement of an actuator button (52) from an un-actuated position to an actuated position is prevented and an unlocked position wherein movement of the actuator button (52) from the un-actuated position to the actuated position is allowed to actuate the valve (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: AptarGroup, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean H. Cho, Peter J. Walters, Gerald J. Marquardt, Paul E. Hallman
  • Patent number: 8714416
    Abstract: A handle attachment configured to provide a secure handle for a spray can and enable the operation of a dispenser valve of the spray can. The attachment includes a housing that defines a grip, a cap coupled to the housing, and an actuation device pivotally mounted to the housing. The cap has a C-shaped rim surrounding an opening that is sized to accommodate a valve mounting cup of the spray can. The rim has a lower portion in which a flange and slots are defined. The slots enable the lower portion of the rim to deflect radially outward relative to the remainder of the rim above the slots. The rigidity of the rim above its lower portion is increased with a ring that compresses the rim above the lower portion and/or a shoulder that defines an increased wall thickness of the cap above the lower portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth Jay Becker
  • Publication number: 20140110440
    Abstract: According to certain embodiments of the invention, a valve guide or raised boss may be connected to or integral with a base or body of an aerosol actuator. In various embodiments, a valve guide may include a raised boss associated with a grip or body of an aerosol actuator. The valve guide or raised boss may align a manifold with a valve when an aerosol actuator is assembled to a container containing a product. In addition, a valve guide or raised boss may limit the movement of a portion of a manifold in a defined direction or defined plane such that the load on a valve by a manifold is controlled. For example, a valve guide may ensure a top load on a valve during actuation or may minimize side loads on a valve during actuation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: MeadWestvaco Calmar, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Good, David L. Dejong, Joseph K. Dodd
  • Patent number: 8701945
    Abstract: A dispensing device (10) for dispensing compressed fluid from a can (100) through a valve stem (110) of the can, the dispensing device containing a hollow tube (20) defining a channel (22) there-through, a connector (40) defining a conduit (46) there-through that is in fluid communication with the channel of the hollow tube, a plug (30) located in the channel of the hollow tube that is able to move in the channel of the hollow tube and seal the hollow tube from fluid flow when pressed towards the dispensing end (24) of the hollow tube (22), a sealed port between the inside and outside of the dispensing device and a flexible and inelastic extension piece (50) attached to the plug and extending through the channel of the hollow tube and, optionally, the conduit of the connector then out from the dispensing device through the sealed port and capable of attaching to a can (100) to which the dispensing device (100) is connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Dow Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Mary M. Hoagland, Peter J. Schulz, Christopher J. Siler
  • Publication number: 20140091109
    Abstract: A dispensing device for a preferably cosmetic liquid as well as a method for the manufacture thereof are proposed. A lasting and tight joining of two materials is achieved while allowing for simple manufacture by pretreating the surface of the first material by means of plasma treatment or irradiation in a desired joining area in order to form radicals there or to break up the polymer chains of the first material, and by then injecting the second material directly against the first material. Another aspect consists in covering the first material with a second material for joining with another material or component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: APTAR DORTMUND GMBH
    Inventors: Reiker CANFIELD, Bernd BLUMENSTEIN, Ralf JORDAN, Reinhard NEUHAUS
  • Patent number: 8678245
    Abstract: What is being proposed is a dispensing device for a preferably cosmetic liquid and a manufacturing method. A first material is pretreated in areas through the application of a coating or embossing foil such that a second material which is injection-molded directly against it does not bond with the first material in the pretreated area but rather can be detached again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Aptar Dortmund GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhard Neuhaus
  • Patent number: 8646661
    Abstract: Improvements in an aerosol can liquid dispenser to provide a method to dispense a limited amount of fluid from within an aerosol can and to hold the fluid in a reservoir so it can be intermittently used. An operator may only dispense a few drops of liquid and use only a fraction of the dispensed quantity. The collection reservoir is located in a semi protected enclosure to minimize air flow over the fluid thereby reducing evaporation. A secures mechanism allows the dispenser to be quickly and easily mounted and removed from the top of an aerosol can. A removable cap closure to reduce evaporation of any dispensed fluid held in a reservoir. An overflow reservoir collects any excess fluid where it is held in a separate chamber and can be reclaimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Alan Paine
  • Patent number: 8627986
    Abstract: A device for spraying contents from a pressurized container. The device has an anti-pre-spray mechanism which prevents inadvertent actuation or spray when a new container is loaded into the device. The anti-pre-spray mechanism provides a dead band between a valve assembly in the pressurized container and an actuation mechanism. The dead band may comprise a gap, spring, etc. The actuation mechanism may be activated by the consumer at the point of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Glenn Allen Bradbury, Richard Michael Girardot
  • Patent number: 8622256
    Abstract: Actuator apparatus for spray containers and methods of manufacturing actuator apparatus for spray containers. The actuator apparatus includes a cover having a restraint structure, e.g., locatable below an aperture portion of a push button of a base, to restrict the push button from depression by a user when the actuator apparatus is in a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Valspar Sourcing, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason C. Campbell
  • Patent number: 8616417
    Abstract: Proposed are an outlet valve and a dispensing device with an outlet valve for a cosmetic liquid. The outlet valve has a flatly resting valve element with an outlet formed therein. The outlet valve is able to open through the elastic deformation of the valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Aptar Dortmund GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhard Neuhaus
  • Patent number: 8616416
    Abstract: A delivery head and a delivery device having a delivery head, wherein a pivotable actuating element is provided in order to open an outlet valve when the delivery head is actuated. The actuating element is provided with a valve element in order to forcibly open the outlet valve by pivoting the actuating element and/or to move the valve element on a circular path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Aptar Dortmund GmbH
    Inventor: Ralf Jordan
  • Publication number: 20130334260
    Abstract: An improved handheld applicator is provided, fitted into an assembly onto a pressure container which is equipped with a gun valve and containing a viscous compound suitable for forming a silicone paste, a polyurethane (PU) foam, or a glue, the applicator being producible in one single injection moulding step and providing in handheld use the ergonomics, the aiming and the dosing accuracy comparable to the use of the pressure container with a dispensing gun. Further provided is a process for the production of the applicator and of the assembly, as well as the use of the assembly for applying a compound from the pressure container with a handheld method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Soudal
    Inventors: Marc Hermans, Peter Geboes, Bart Vervoort, Erik De Groof
  • Publication number: 20130320044
    Abstract: A dispensing device (10) for dispensing compressed fluid from a can (100) through a valve stem (110) of the can, the dispensing device containing a hollow tube (20) defining a channel (22) there-through, a connector (40) defining a conduit (46) there-through that is in fluid communication with the channel of the hollow tube, a plug (30) located in the channel of the hollow tube that is able to move in the channel of the hollow tube and seal the hollow tube from fluid flow when pressed towards the dispensing end (24) of the hollow tube (22), a sealed port between the inside and outside of the dispensing device and a flexible and inelastic extension piece (50) attached to the plug and extending through the channel of the hollow tube and, optionally, the conduit of the connector then out from the dispensing device through the sealed port and capable of attaching to a can (100) to which the dispensing device (100) is connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: Mary M. Hoagland, Peter J. Schulz, Christopher J. Siler
  • Publication number: 20130320045
    Abstract: A dispensing device for dispensing compressed fluid from a can through a valve stem of the can has a hollow tube with a channel extending through it from an entrance end to an opposing dispensing end, a connector defining a conduit therethrough that is in fluid communication with the channel of the hollow tube and that attaches to a valve stem of a can, a plug located within the channel of the hollow tube that forms a sealing configuration within the channel when pressed towards the dispensing end of the channel, and a sleeve that wraps at least partially around the hollow tube and that has a protrusion that upon activating the sleeve extends through the dispensing end of the hollow tube and prevents the plug from establishing a sealing configuration with the hollow tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: Mary M. Hoagland, Peter J. Schulz, Christopher J. Siler
  • Publication number: 20130320041
    Abstract: This invention relates to a spray head for dispensing product from a container, having an attachment element on which a closure element for closing off the exit orifice of a spray channel is disposed and an actuating element on activation of which the exit orifice is connectable with a valve opening of the container. In order to create a spray head which is easier and safer to handle than those of the prior art, it is proposed according to the invention that the closure element and the actuating element form a unit pivotable about an axis from a closed position to an actuating position, the exit orifice of the spray channel being closable by the unit's being in the closed position, and that the unit has locking means via which the unit can be locked in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: LINDAL DISPENSER GMBH
    Inventors: Andrea Selinger, Norman Goldberg
  • Patent number: 8596553
    Abstract: An ergonomic adapter for an aerosol spray can. The ergonomic adapter has an elastomeric collar that fits around a body of an aerosol spray paint can such that a front portion of the collar is facing in front of the can just below the interface between the body and the domed top of the spray can. The front of the adapter includes a compartment that houses a polychromatic light source for lighting the surface and/or a light beam arrangement for targeting and positioning the spray can with respect to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: The LaserCan Company, LLC
    Inventors: Richard J. Klein, II, Thomas J. Giblin, John L. Konefes, Nicholas J. Webb, Stephen Orsatti
  • Patent number: 8590743
    Abstract: An overcap for a dispenser includes a housing mountable on a container. The container includes a tilt-activated valve stem with a discharge end. The discharge end of the valve stem is adapted to be in fluid communication with a discharge orifice of the housing. A drive unit is disposed within the housing, wherein the drive unit includes a solenoid, a bi-metallic actuator, a piezo-linear motor, or an electro-responsive wire, which is adapted to impart transverse motion to the valve stem to open a valve of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Rene Maurice Beland, Thomas A. Helf, James F. Kimball, Edward L. Paas
  • Publication number: 20130292418
    Abstract: A universal yoke for actuating an actuation head of a canister is provided. The universal yoke can include a plurality of support ribs, an actuating nub including a first triggering surface, and an actuating tab including a second triggering surface. The plurality of support ribs can be arranged to nest with a plurality of differently shaped top portions of canisters. Either one of the first triggering surface and the second triggering surface can be arranged to independently actuate an actuation head of a nested canister top portion when the canister is forced into contact with the universal yoke. The universal yoke can be implemented with a dispensing device capable of cradling various-sized canisters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: AZIZ ZIZOUNE, BREANA THERESE MURPHY
  • Publication number: 20130284767
    Abstract: A finger trigger spray cap actuator for use in conjunction with a mounting cup on an aerosol container including a base having an integral collar, a finger trigger support; a finger trigger hingedly connected to the trigger support, and a finger grip depending from the finger trigger and extending radially beyond the outer circumference of the collar. The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing the finger trigger spray cap assembly including integrally molding a base portion and finger trigger portion as a single unit about a living hinge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Toralf H. Strand
  • Publication number: 20130277397
    Abstract: A trigger operated aerosol dispenser is disclosed for dispensing an aerosol product from an aerosol container through an aerosol valve. The trigger operated aerosol dispenser comprises a base secured to the aerosol container with a dispensing head mounted to the base. A nozzle extends through the dispensing head for communicating the aerosol valve with a terminal orifice. A trigger actuator extends from the dispensing head for actuating the aerosol valve upon depression of the trigger actuator to dispense the aerosol product from the terminal orifice. The trigger operated aerosol dispenser may incorporate a lock for inhibiting the trigger from actuating the aerosol valve. In one example, the trigger operated aerosol dispenser may be actuated in an alternate manner upon a depression of the dispensing head. Preferably, the trigger operated aerosol dispenser is formed from a two piece unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Aptar Group Inc
    Inventors: Gregory A. Erickson, Geraid J. Marquardt, Sean Cho, Bernd Blumenstein, Bernhard Jasper
  • Patent number: 8550306
    Abstract: A dispenser cap comprising an axially moveable collar that surrounds an inner unit, the inner unit comprising a mounting ring at its bottom that is suitable for placement on a container, a cylindrical wall having a section that defines a radial outlet hole, said radial outlet hole being located towards the upper end of the inner unit, and a release trigger at the upper end of the inner unit, said collar being moveable between a raised position in which it covers the radial outlet hole and a lowered position in which it does not cover the radial outlet hole, the axially moveable collar comprising an internal structure that blocks the depression of the release trigger when the collar is in its raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Conopco Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Angus, Adrian Barclay Caroen, Andrew Claughton, Ian McKinnon, Paul Robertson Sherratt
  • Patent number: 8540121
    Abstract: A dispensing actuator for use on a container having pressurized contents is configured for convenient one-handed manipulation and use by consumers. The dispensing actuator includes a hingedly moveable flip-open lid, and a laterally moveable opening element, which can be manipulated so that the opening element cooperates with the lid to move the lid from a closed position to an opened position. The present dispensing actuator further includes an inner, downwardly deflectable actuating element, operatively connected with a dispensing valve of the associated container. Resilient, downward deflection of the actuating element, after opening of the dispensing actuator lid, permits the contents of the container to be conveniently dispensed. In one embodiment, the contents of the container are dispensed generally laterally of the dispensing actuator, while in alternate embodiments, the container's contents are dispensed generally upwardly, through the actuating element of the dispensing actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: AptarGroup, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Walters, Jason A. Ksiazk, Sean H. Cho, Gerald J. Marquardt, Jonathan D. Werner
  • Patent number: 8528794
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dispenser for dispensing an adhesive or sealant from a vessel, in particular from a pressurized vessel, via a valve. For this purpose, the dispenser is equipped with a lever with a grip region for actuating the valve. The dispenser also has an attachment, on which the lever is fitted in a pivotable manner, and an actuator with a supporting region for the lever. The actuator is configured such that it can be rotated relative to the attachment, and the supporting region is therefore variable, in order to change the effective lever path for the actuation of the valve, for activating or deactivating the dispenser or for varying the volume flow as product is dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Karsten Wolf, Rene Schwarz, Jan Ziegler, Kai Ruthe-Steinsiek, Birgit Rhode
  • Patent number: 8528837
    Abstract: The invention relates to an aerosol can comprising a body containing a propellant and an aerosol product, a valve whose actuation enables said aerosol product to be sprayed, and a spray head (1) which serves to discharge the aerosol product to the environment when the valve is actuated. The spray product discharge rate of the inventive aerosol can is adjustable by means of an adjusting device provided in the spray head (1). Said invention can primarily be used for aerosol paint cans in view of the fact that for such applications a controlled and uniform discharge rate is of particular importance in order to avoid painting defects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Peter Kwasny GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Kwasny
  • Publication number: 20130228593
    Abstract: An actuator cap includes a housing and an actuator. The actuator has first and second actuating members and a manifold in fluid communication with a dispensing orifice. The actuator is hingedly attached to the housing at a pivot. The pivot is located on an interior surface of the housing and positioned at or above a base of the manifold. The actuator resiliently deforms about the pivot when one of the first and second actuating members is actuated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventors: Mary Beth Adams, Jeffrey J. Christianson, Daniel A. Andersen, Han Xin, Matthew Grossman, Kit R. Morris
  • Patent number: 8523023
    Abstract: A aerosol container resuscitator restores functionality to a damaged or otherwise compromised aerosol container by being attachable to the annular container rim adjacent the container outlet, and by opening the valve of the compromised outlet and subsequently directing the aerosol container's product as purposed. The aerosol container resuscitator comprises an annular fitting assembly and a driver assembly. The fitting assembly comprises a fitting structure and a clamping structure. The fitting assembly aligns, secures, and interfaces the driver assembly to the container, which driver assembly comprises gasket structures, spring structures, a sleeve structure and a driver structure. The sleeve structure comprises communicating cavities in which the driver structure is received. The gaskets seal and prevent discharged aerosol container's product from circumventing the driver structure of the driver assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Donald L. Coroneos
  • Patent number: 8517227
    Abstract: An aerosol spray actuator for a pressurized aerosol canister and in particular trigger or button actuated spray actuators having three main parts to simplify the mechanical moving parts of a spray actuator. An actuator button, an actuator base and finally a nozzle piece being inserted at the very end of a product dispensing passage embodied either in the body or the trigger part. A mechanism for permitting and blocking the actuation of the spray actuator is also provided so that inadvertent operation of the actuator can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Summit Packaging Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Toralf H. Strand, Thomas G. Lacey
  • Publication number: 20130214004
    Abstract: A child resistant cap with a U-channel safety component includes an inner and an outer member. The inner member has sidewalls with two horizontal tracks, being an upper and a lower track. There in a top horizontal flange with breaks to permit movement of outer member inwardly projecting lugs therethrough, and a central horizontal flange with breaks to permit movement of inwardly projecting lugs from the lower track upwardly past the central horizontal break, past the upper track, and through the breaks of the upper track top horizontal flange. There are vertical stops that prevent the lugs from entering the break when in the upper track, and one stop adjacent one break on the lower track to permit lugs to enter the break when in the lower track. A user rotates the outer member to a position for movement to the lower track, rotates to a stop, and lists to open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: Stuart W. Dejonge
  • Patent number: 8505779
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cap comprising a base with means for fixing it to a container, a top fixed to the base by a hinge, closure means consisting of a first closure means and a second closure means, one on the base and the other on the top, the closure means working together to keep the top in a first position in which it is closed against the base, release means for moving apart from each other the first closure means and the second closure means and means for lifting the top. In accordance with the invention, the means for lifting the top consist of at least one leaf spring, one of whose ends is fixed to the base and the other of whose ends is able to slide on the bowl of the top, the leaf spring being under tension when the top is closed, and being relaxed or partially relaxed when the top is in the fully open position. This cap is particularly intended for use as a spray head for a spray device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Lindal France SAS
    Inventors: Hans Peter Lilienthal, Herve Bodet
  • Patent number: 8499974
    Abstract: A hand-held non-lethal self-defense chemical spray device possessing a focused light source that automatically activates upon removal of the device from a holster to aid in the safe and effective use of the device by the operator such as a law enforcement officer. The focused light source emits a light in the direction of the chemical spray prior to and during discharge of the device to aid in the aiming of the chemical spray and assist the operator in seeing the target in low-light conditions. The focused light source automatically turns-on upon removal of the device from a holster, and automatically turns-off upon replacement of the device inside the holster. The spray canister does not require the user to manually activate the light source and retains similar size shape and form to that of a conventional self defense spray canister already in use by law enforcement officers nationwide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Ron Bennett
  • Patent number: 8499984
    Abstract: A finger trigger spray cap actuator for use in conjunction with a mounting cup (11) on an aerosol container including a base (5) having an integral collar (8), a finger trigger support (22); a finger trigger (3) hingedly connected to the trigger support (22), and a finger grip (39) depending from the finger trigger (3) and extending radially beyond the outer circumference of the collar (8). The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing the finger trigger spray cap assembly including integrally molding a base portion (5) and finger trigger portion (3) as a single unit about a living hinge (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Summit Packaging Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Toralf H. Strand
  • Publication number: 20130193233
    Abstract: An aerosol actuator and manifold for dispersing an aerosol product wherein the manifold includes one or more air vents to promote the foaming of an aerosol product dispersed from the aerosol actuator. In some embodiments, the one or more air vents may be positioned downstream of an orifice cup mounted on the orifice of the manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: MEADWESTVACO CALMAR, INC.
    Inventor: Steven A. Sell
  • Patent number: 8496137
    Abstract: A solenoid valve assembly is adapted to control product flow through a dispensing system. The dispensing system includes a housing. A plunger is disposed within the housing and has a first axial surface. A stopper is also disposed within the housing and has a second axial surface facing the first axial surface. At least one flow pathway is provided on at least one of the first and second axial surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymund J. Alfaro, Dennis J. Beaumont, Thomas P. Gasper, Sebastian D. Hasik
  • Patent number: RE44710
    Abstract: A unit (1) for packaging and dispensing a liquid or semi-liquid product includes a body (10) with an axis X, forming a reservoir (12) for the liquid or semi-liquid product, the reservoir (12) being surmounted by a pump (30) actuable by an actuating element (34). The product emerges through at least one opening arranged in an outlet element (9) connected to the pump (30) by a conduit (41) forming a flexible connection. The outlet element (9) is held substantially immovably in position on a fixed portion (51) of the body (10) surmounting the reservoir (12), the actuating element (34) being independently mounted relative to the fixed portion (51) of the body (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Thierry Ponton