With Container End Overcap Having Actuator Patents (Class 222/402.13)
  • Patent number: 6817493
    Abstract: Nozzles are disclosed that are suitable for dispensing a liquid material to be dispensed from an aerosol can or other liquid reservoir. The nozzles are designed to deliver two streams of liquid which visually appear to substantially retain their separate character for a defined distance from the dispenser. The nozzles can have two parallel, horizontal, vertically aligned outlet paths, that are both truncated at their outer end at angles that are pointed away from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: William G. Parsons, Gary A. Hurtienne
  • Publication number: 20040222237
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing metered dosages of a substance from a container includes a dispenser housing having a top, a bottom, a longitudinally extending cavity open at the top, and a support block extending from the bottom into the cavity. The container includes an end portion, a valve stem extending from the end portion and a valve moveable between a closed position and an open position. An indicating device is disposed in the cavity of the dispenser housing. The indicating device includes a collar disposed around and secured to the end portion of the container and an indicator including dosage indicia.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Richard Blacker, Daniel K. Engelbreth, James N. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20040222245
    Abstract: Spraying cap for a spray container with a valve, said spraying cap being provided with the following:
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Applicant: Lindal Ventil GmbH
    Inventor: Alain Marroncles
  • Patent number: 6799701
    Abstract: A packaging unit has a cartridge for storing material and pressurized gas operating with it and a dispensing head connected to the cartridge. A sliding piston is positioned in the internal space of the cartridge, the piston divides the internal space into a product chamber and a pressurized gas chamber that have a gas-tight seal between them. A plug is fitted into the pressurized gas chamber end of the cartridge and a valve to the product chamber end, the valve has a valve house, a valve stem, and a disc spring with plate segments. The valve stem has a discharge opening at the end coming out of the cartridge, the end in the product chamber of the cartridge has a conical surface, the plate segments of the disc spring are pushed up against the conical surface of the valve stem, while the disc spring is snapped onto the valve house.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: Vilmos Weiperth
  • Publication number: 20040188473
    Abstract: A hand-held pressurized product dispenser including a container containing a product under pressure, a valve mechanism and base structure at the top of the container, a nozzle that moves between an unactuated position and a discharge position, and a side lever that extends along the can and is movable to move the nozzle from the unactuated position to the discharge position. The dispenser also has a dome that is rotatably connected to the base structure and surrounds the nozzle and interacts with the nozzle to cause rotation of the nozzle between a locked position and an unlocked position. The nozzle has one or more downwardly directed feet that align with solid areas of an upwardly directed surface in the locked position and that align with open areas of the base structure in the unlocked position, such that the nozzle is free to move into the discharge position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventors: David M. Groh, William T. O'Connor, Robert Trotta
  • Patent number: 6796464
    Abstract: A multi-functional finger-press structure of a spray can is disclosed. The structure includes a pressurized can spray cap, a spray head seat, a spray tube mounting seat, a sealing pad, a spray tube and at least one to two spray heads. The top of the pressurized can spray cap is a recessed through slot having the inner edge of one end thereof connected by a connection arm to the spray head seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventor: Ching-Sung Tung
  • Patent number: 6785911
    Abstract: An automatic dispersing device for dispersing an aerosol from a container having a spring-loaded or pressure biased valve top. The device includes a housing for receiving an aerosol container in an upright position having an opening allowing dispersion of the vapor or aerosol therethrough. An actuation assembly for actuating the valve comprises a rotatable shaft positioned to be proximate the top of the valve, an actuation arm mounted on the rotatable shaft which rotates with respect to the longitudinal axis of the housing, and an eccentric cylindrical cam mounted on the rotational shaft positioned to engage with the valve of the aerosol container. The cam biases the actuation arm outward from the longitudinal axis of the housing at an acute angle in an unactuated state, whereby downward rotation of the actuation arm causes the cam to depress the valve to release a vapor. The spring-loaded valve then returns the actuation arm to its unactuated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Marvin J. Percher
  • Publication number: 20040149772
    Abstract: Apparatus comprising a housing (1) defining a (2) portion for receiving in use a dose-dispensing container (20), the housing containing a dose counter comprising at least one annular counter member (141, 142), a helix-like coil (143) and transmission means (144) for operatively connecting the helix-like coil and the at least one annular counter member, wherein movement of the received dose-dispensing container acts to compress the helix-like coil to thereby rotate the transmission means and the at least one annular counter member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventor: Tianhong Ouyang
  • Publication number: 20040149773
    Abstract: Apparatus comprising a housing (1) defining a portion (2) for receiving in use a dose-dispensing container (20), the housing containing a dose counter comprising at least one annular counter member (241, 242) and a helix-like coil (243), wherein one or more projections (255) are provided on the helix-like coil for operatively connecting the helix-like coil and the at least one annular counter member, wherein movement of the received dose-dispensing container acts to compress the helix-like coil to thereby rotate the at least one annular counter member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventors: Tianhong Ouyang, Geoff Brace
  • Publication number: 20040140328
    Abstract: An aerosol valve actuator with a discrete shell-like enclosure and a discrete, bottom mounted, actuating member with finger actuating pad. An opening with a perimeter, in the upper portion of the enclosure, is closed in non-actuated position by the finger pad which has a greater perimeter than the opening perimeter. The finger pad has an upper surface with a portion adjacent its perimeter which underlies and contacts the enclosure upper portion directly adjacent its opening leaving no discernable gap. The finger pad cannot be pushed upwardly through the opening to create a “smiling” effect. The actuating member is connected to the enclosure interior side wall, and has a nozzle outer end snap fit and extending into and filling an enclosure side wall product dispensing opening to prevent spray noise entering the enclosure and being intensified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Applicant: Precision Valve Corporation
    Inventors: Louis Pericard, Gunter Kolanus
  • Patent number: 6763979
    Abstract: A cap for mounting on an aerosol container, which is able to automatically release the gas remaining therein with a simple action, when the container is to be discarded, said cap comprising a top plate member having a periphery connected to an upper end portion of a tubular body, wherein said top plate member has an aperture and a lid for closing the aperture, said lid has a fixed end which is connected to a margin of the aperture through a bendable line, such that the lid is able to turn from a first position in which the lid closes the aperture, to a second position in which the lid is protruding into the tubular body member so as to get in touch with a top face of the discharge head that is depressed downwardly, and the top plate member also has a stopper for fixing the lid in the second position so as to keep the discharge head in such a pressed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Yoshino Kogyosho Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuo Yamanaka, Hiroshi Mizushima
  • Publication number: 20040134931
    Abstract: A mixing and discharge device is provided, in which contents are ejected from a pair of containers (33) standing next to each other and are mixed and discharged outside of this device, by pressing down the discharge nozzles (35) of said containers simultaneously with the manipulation of the thumb and a finger of the hand holding the containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicants: KANEBO, LIMITED, YOSHINO KOGYOSHO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Keiji Jinbo, Tomomi Hamada, Keiko Ishikawa, Yoshie Aoki, Yoshiyuki Kakuta, Toru Toma
  • Publication number: 20040129736
    Abstract: An air freshener for dispensing a spray of deodorant, includes a housing in which a holder can be received for containing deodorant. A sliding bar has an end in contact with a door or doorway, so that a door movement results in a movement of the sliding bar. A wedge-shaped press member is coupled with the sliding bar, which during a movement of the sliding bar causes the dispensing member to move in a direction transverse to the movement of the sliding bar. The sliding bar includes a guide along which the press member can be moved in a direction transverse to the sliding bar. The press member operates a coupling piece between the press member and the dispensing member, and the coupling piece includes a round upper side including a contact surface for the wedge-shaped press member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Dirk Jan Bulsink
  • Patent number: 6758412
    Abstract: An overcap for use with a spray canister includes a peripheral wall adapted to attach to the spray canister, a cantilevered lever arm hingedly attached to the peripheral wall, and a nozzle within the cantilevered lever arm. The nozzle includes a stem socket adapted to receive a valve stem of the spray canister and adapted to provide a fan-shaped spray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale Aberegg, Cathal Fahy, Tracey A. Frosch, Steven A. Zach, Allen D. Miller
  • Publication number: 20040112924
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dispenser device comprising: a cover; a dispenser endpiece, the dispenser endpiece comprising a dispenser orifice and a duct for channeling the substance flowing out from the dispenser element towards the dispenser orifice; and a pushbutton movable relative to the cover. The pushbutton is configured so that when actuated to dispense the substance, it in a first stage moves the dispenser orifice relative to the cover in such a manner as to bring it into register with the opening of the cover, the duct of the dispenser endpiece being suitable for deforming so as to enable the dispenser orifice to be moved without actuating the dispenser element during this first stage; and thereafter, in a second stage, it actuates the dispenser element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Applicant: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Nicolas Albisetti
  • Patent number: 6742717
    Abstract: An actuator cap for use in radially locating a pressurized can in a sprayer device having a cradle for receiving the can. The actuator cap has a recess that engages an engagement land of the cradle and an actuator arm that is so located as to be movable by an actuation pin located in the engagement land. By such movement, the can's valve can be activated and its contents released. A method is also disclosed for activating a pressurized, axially extending can having a forwardly presenting valve while the can is held in pre-determined radial orientation within a sprayer device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale Aberegg, Cathal L. Fahy, Steven A. Zach
  • Patent number: 6722532
    Abstract: A dispenser unit comprises a housing and an actuator movable relative to the housing to cause the contents of two containers to be dispensed simultaneously in mixed or separate state. Each container includes a hollow stem through which the substance is dispensed when the stem is depressed. The dispenser unit includes a fluid-conducting member distinct from the actuator and including two hoods for engaging the two stems of the containers. Depressing the actuator causes the fluid-conducting member to actuate the stems and initiate dispensing of the contents into a single passage or two separate passages of the fluid-conducting member. The fluid-conducting member is movable within the housing for accommodating mismatch in heights of the stems. The actuator includes a single internal channel or two separate channels for receiving the container contents from the fluid-conducting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventors: Pierre-Andre Lasserre, Marcel Sanchez, Giuseppe Dalsant
  • Patent number: 6708849
    Abstract: An actuator and tube overcap assembly has an actuator having an inlet and an outlet. A tube has a fluid passageway therethrough and an inlet end connected to the outlet of the actuator and an extension portion extending therefrom. An overcap is removably affixed to the actuator and has a top and a side extending therefrom. The top and side of the overcap have an inner surface. The overcap has internal tube retaining portions having a tube retaining surface. The tube retaining surface extends away from the inner surface of the top and is spaced from the inner surface of the side with the tube extension positioned therebetween. A valve is provided by substantially closing the fluid passageway of the tube. A method for making the assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Precision Thermoplastic Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall E. Carter, Leslie F. Kohli, Brian D. Schumacher
  • Patent number: 6691898
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid dispensing device incorporating a push-button actuator normally biased in the closed position, a housing for receiving the aerosol canisters and a carrying case for the entire assembly. Activation is achieved by longitudinal axial compression followed by snapping engagement of the housing fitted about the aerosol valves which depresses the aerosol valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Fomo Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Hurray, Frank Leyshon, Michael Karr
  • Patent number: 6688492
    Abstract: A valve assembly can automatically dispense aerosol content from an aerosol container at predetermined intervals without the use of electric power. A diaphragm at least partially defines an accumulation chamber that receives gas propellant from a portion of the can during an accumulation phase. Once the internal pressure of the accumulation chamber reaches a predetermined threshold, the diaphragm moves, carrying with it a seal so as to unseal an outlet channel, and thereby initiate a spray burst of the main active chemical. The diaphragm assumes its original position when the pressure within the accumulation chamber falls below a threshold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Jaworski, Donald J. Shanklin, Nathan R. Westphal, David J. Houser
  • Publication number: 20040011824
    Abstract: An inverted aerosol dispensing device is disclosed having an undercap rotatably secured to the aerosol container with a bottom portion of the undercap supporting the aerosol container on a supporting surface to store the aerosol dispensing device in an inverted position. The undercap is rotatable into a first rotational position for enabling an actuator to discharge an aerosol product in a generally downwardly direction. The undercap is rotatable into a second rotational position for inhibiting the actuator from moving the valve stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: Seaquist Perfect Dispensing Foreign, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Walters, Patrick Timothy Yerby, Craig A. Braun
  • Publication number: 20030209569
    Abstract: A camless aerosol valve actuator with a top portion mounted on and rotatable with respect to a bottom portion from an inoperative to an operative position. A first collar of the top portion has a side opening and a first central opening with a depressible finger pad mounted therein. A second collar of the bottom portion has a depressible product channel member with a nozzle positioned adjacent the second collar. A finger pad first protuberance overlies and aligns with the product channel member only in the operative actuator position. The nozzle aligns with the first collar side opening only in the operative actuator position, and the nozzle is blocked by the first collar in the inoperative position. A finger pad second protuberance braces the product channel member in the operative actuator position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Applicant: Precision Valve Corporation
    Inventors: Nigel J. Jackson, Guenter Kolanus
  • Patent number: 6637627
    Abstract: An aerosol container for dispensing material or fluid such as an adhesive under pressure is retrofitted with an adapter means for preventing clogging of the discharge valve with old hardened materials or fluid after use. The adapter means comprises an interior sleeve inserted within an exterior dispensing tip where the assembly is retrofitted into the discharge valve of the aerosol container. A trigger mechanism attached to the top of the aerosol container engages the aerosol can discharge valve to facilitate bias engagement of the discharge valve of the aerosol container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: The Glidden Company
    Inventors: Lance Liljeqvist, Edward Kozlowski
  • Publication number: 20030173378
    Abstract: A cap for mounting on an aerosol container, which is able to automatically release the gas remaining therein with a simple action, when the container is to be discarded, said cap comprising a top plate member having a periphery connected to an upper end portion of a tubular body, wherein said top plate member has an aperture and a lid for closing the aperture, said lid has a fixed end which is connected to a margin of the aperture through a bendable line, such that the lid is able to turn from a first position in which the lid closes the aperture, to a second position in which the lid is protruding into the tubular body member so as to get in touch with a top face of the discharge head that is depressed downwardly, and the top plate member also has a stopper for fixing the lid in the second position so as to keep the discharge head in such a pressed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: YOSHINO KOGYOSHO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hideo Uemura, Nobuo Yamanaka, Hiroshi Mizushima, Riichi Ogawa
  • Publication number: 20030168476
    Abstract: A dispensing cap and a container having a dispensing cap are provided in which the dispensing cap includes first and second parts designed for mounting onto a container. The dispensing cap includes: (a) a first part fitted with an interior output orifice suitable for allowing selective communication with the container interior; and (b) a second part through a conduit extends and which opens at a dispensing outlet. The second part is arranged so that it can rotate on axis Y, which is aligned obliquely to an axis X of the container, in such a way as to move from a closed position at which the second part will seal off the interior output orifice to a dispensing position in which the interior output orifice will communicate with the dispensing outlet by way of the conduit. In addition, the dispensing cap is configured in such a way as to activate a dispensing member provided on the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventor: Marcel Sanchez
  • Patent number: 6612464
    Abstract: A valve assembly can automatically dispense aerosol content from an aerosol container at predetermined intervals without the use of electric power. A diaphragm at least partially defines an accumulation chamber that receives aerosol content from the can during an accumulation phase. Once the internal pressure of the accumulation chamber reaches a predetermined threshold, the diaphragm moves axially, carrying with it a leg so as to unseal an outlet, and thereby initiate a spray burst. A pawl extends from the diaphragm, and engages a retention surface to resist movement of the diaphragm and prolong the accumulation phase. The diaphragm assumes its original position when the pressure within the accumulation chamber falls below a threshold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Tor H. Petterson, Michael G. Knickerbocker, David J. Houser
  • Patent number: 6610254
    Abstract: Dual functional dispensers, wherein the dispensers comprise dispensing units independently capable of dispensing an actively dispersed spray or an evaporative long term dispersible material, comprise active dispensers in combination with passive dispensers of volatile materials. The passive dispenser may comprise the external shell of said dual function dispenser, and may be fashioned of a porous ceramic, plastic, or paper material impregnated with an evaporative passively dispersible material selected from the group consisting of fragrances, air fresheners, deodorizers, odor eliminators, malodor counteractants, insecticides, insect repellants, medicinal substances, disinfectants, sanitizers, mood enhancers, and aroma therapy compositions. The actively dispersed material may be the same or different. Refill units for such dispensers may comprise a spray can and associated control means, and an evaporative dispenser of dispersible material, provided either separately or as an integral unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul E. Furner, Heidi J. Uick, John P. Connelly
  • Publication number: 20030136800
    Abstract: A housing for a mechanical or electrical device for use with an aerosol canister for containing chemical comprising a sleeve for receipt of the aerosol canister; a collar affixable around the neck of the canister; and a joint between the sleeve and the collar to secure the housing to the canister.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Peter John Brand, James William Godfrey, Anthony Patrick Jones, Paul Kenneth Rand, Duncan Robertson
  • Publication number: 20030127466
    Abstract: An improved spray delivery system and method for aerosol containers is provided. The system and method provide improved selectable spray pattern characteristics. In addition, the system is provided with multiple automatic features to prevent unintended actuation of the aerosol container as well as an override system to selectively disable these characteristics and automatically return the device to a safety position without requiring the user to see the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventors: Kamran Loghman-Adham, Michael Knickerbocker
  • Patent number: 6588631
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for dispensing a product. The system may include a receptacle containing the product, a tilt-type valve on the receptacle, and a dispensing head for actuating the tilt-type valve and dispensing the product. The dispensing head may include at least one orifice for dispensing the product. The dispensing head and the tilt-type valve may be configured such that actuation of the tilt-type valve may be achieved only by applying a force on the tilt-type valve in a direction lateral to the tilt-type valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: L'Oreal S.A.
    Inventor: Marcel Sanchez
  • Patent number: 6588627
    Abstract: A valve assembly can automatically dispense aerosol content from an aerosol container at predetermined intervals without the use of electric power. A diaphragm at least partially defines an accumulation chamber that receives aerosol content from the can during an accumulation phase. Once the internal pressure of the accumulation chamber reaches a predetermined threshold, the diaphragm moves, carrying with it a leg so as to unseal a valve stem, and thereby initiate a spray burst. The diaphragm assumes its original position when the pressure within the accumulation chamber falls below a threshold pressure. A barrier prevents the aerosol container from resupplying the accumulation chamber at a high rate during the spray phase, preferably due to a textured interface between the barrier and a passageway in which it is housed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Tor H. Petterson, Thomas Jaworski, David J. Houser, Michael G. Knickerbocker
  • Patent number: 6578573
    Abstract: A device for releasing a gas to a respirator with a compressed gas cylinder (2), which contains the gas and has a metering valve (6). The metering valve (6) can be opened by pressure. The metering valve (6) has a tubular valve body (7) letting through the gas and has a collar (5) surrounding the valve body (7). A cylinder adapter has a locking mechanism (16) designed for fastening to the collar (5). The cylinder adapter (1) always remains associated with the corresponding compressed gas cylinder (2). This is accomplished by a predetermined breaking point with reduced strength properties being provided on the cylinder adapter (1). The breaking point is intended to destroy the locking mechanism (16) during the removal of the cylinder adapter (1) from the collar (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Drager Medical AG & Co. KGAA
    Inventor: Jochim Koch
  • Publication number: 20030106901
    Abstract: In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus includes an actuator with a spray nozzle and an opening adjacent the spray nozzle. The actuator dispenses spray through the spray nozzle when the actuator is depressed to operate a pump or an aerosol valve. Also included is a nozzle closure with a first projection and a second projection. The first projection fits into a first opening adjacent the spray nozzle thereby sealing the spray nozzle, while the second projection fits into a second opening, below the first opening, thereby locking the actuator. The nozzle closure has a hinge allowing pivotal movement of the nozzle closure from a closed position, at which the spray opening is open, to a closed position, at which the spray opening is closed. When in the closed position, a degree of opening resistance between the nozzle closure and the actuator may provide a measure of child-resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Applicant: Dispensing Patents International LLC
    Inventor: Philip Meshberg
  • Patent number: 6569387
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are dispensers for dual functional use, wherein the dispensers are independently capable of dispensing a spray or an evaporative long term dispersible material. Also disclosed are refill units for such dispensers, which refill units comprise a spray can and associated control means, and an evaporative dispenser which may be activated by removal of a covering membrane which is impermeable to a volatile dispersible material. The spray and the evaporative volatile dispersible may or may not be the same material, permitting the consumer greater flexibility and choice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul E. Furner, Heidi J. Uick
  • Patent number: 6564977
    Abstract: A cap for mounting on an aerosol container, which is able to automatically release the gas remaining therein with a simple action, when the container is to be discarded, said cap comprising a top plate member having a periphery connected to an upper end portion of a tubular body, wherein said top plate member has an aperture and a lid for closing the aperture, said lid has a fixed end which is connected to a margin of the aperture through a bendable line, such that the lid is able to turn from a first position in which the lid closes the aperture, to a second position in which the lid protruding into the tubular body member so as to get in touch with a top face of the discharge head that is depressed downwardly, and the top plate member also has a stopper for fixing the lid in the second position so as to keep the discharge head in such a pressed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Yoshino Kogyosho Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideo Uemura, Nobuo Yamanaka, Takayuki Goto, Hiroshi Mizushima, Shigeru Hayakawa, Riichi Ogawa
  • Publication number: 20030075570
    Abstract: An aerosol dispensing system includes a metal cylindrical can having a plurality of wide and narrow recesses in an upper undulating portion and a smooth walled lower portion. A plastic spray dome snap-fits over the top of the metal can and includes a trigger actuator movable against a valve assembly for releasing concentrate and propellant maintained under pressure within the can. The annular recesses are ergonomically located to fit the thumb and fingers of the hand when the index finger is located on the actuator. The annular recesses are preferably recessed into the otherwise straight-walled can but can take a variety of other shapes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald F. DeSimone
  • Publication number: 20030071085
    Abstract: A dispensing head for dispensing a product from a receptacle associated with an actuatable dispensing element. The dispensing head comprises a first element defining a channel passing through the first element, and a second element. The first element may be configured to be coupled to the actuatable dispensing element. The first element may further define at least one inner outlet orifice. The channel may be configured to pass product from the actuatable dispensing element to the at least one inner outlet orifice. The second element may define at least one dispensing orifice. The second element may be configured to be displaced relative to the first element from a first position, where actuation of the actuatable dispensing element is prevented and the dispensing orifice is closed by the first element, to a second position, where actuation of the actuatable dispensing element is allowed and the at least one dispensing orifice is at least partly open and communicates with the at least one inner outlet orifice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Pierre-Andre Lasserre, Marcel Sanchez
  • Patent number: 6533141
    Abstract: An valve assembly is provided that automatically dispenses aerosol content from a can at predetermined intervals. A diaphragm at least partially defines an accumulation chamber that receives aerosol content from the can during an accumulation phase. Once the internal pressure of the accumulation chamber reaches a predetermined threshold, the diaphragm flexes to initiate a spray phase, during which the aerosol content is delivered from the accumulation chamber to the ambient environment. A rotatable pawl provides resistive pressure and control of diaphragm movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Tor H. Petterson, Michael G. Knickerbocker, David J. Houser
  • Patent number: 6463650
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for assembling and packaging a pump (P) and a receptacle (R) of the type comprising firstly a fixing bush (1) provided on its inside wall with elastically deformable elements (11) for fastening beneath a collar (C) of the neck of the receptacle (R), and secondly with a packaging skirt (2) that is malleable, at least in part, clamped radially against the outside wall of said bush (1), the device being characterized in that said bush (1) has setbacks (10) formed in its outside wall in register with the fastener elements (11), defining an intermediate empty zone in which said skirt (2) is not liable to be deformed by said elements (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Rexam Sofab
    Inventors: Jean-Louis Bougamont, Hervé Lompech, Pierre Dumont
  • Patent number: 6454139
    Abstract: A preassembled aerosol actuator assembly and a method of in-line capping the assembly to an aerosol container. A shell has a top opening and a hinged actuator lever therein with a depending button-receiving socket. A discrete spray button is preassembled into the socket with the button bottom positioned a substantial distance above the socket bottom to leave a stem-capturing space below the button. The button has an upwardly extending interior passage with a wide lead-in beginning at the bottom end of the button directly adjacent the outer side wall of the button and converging upwardly to terminate in a shallow valve stem-sealing socket. The bottom of the button has no obstructions and no unintended stem-capturing openings. The button socket has a side spray slot closed at the bottom by a radiused flap. Heat-dissipating interior channels are cored from the button top down into the button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Precision Valve Corporation
    Inventor: Christian Bayer
  • Publication number: 20020108972
    Abstract: A preassembled aerosol actuator assembly and a method of in-line capping the assembly to an aerosol container. A shell has a top opening and a hinged actuator lever therein with a depending button-receiving socket. A discrete spray button is preassembled into the socket with the button bottom positioned a substantial distance above the socket bottom to leave a stem-capturing space below the button. The button has an upwardly extending interior passage with a wide lead-in beginning at the bottom end of the button directly adjacent the outer side wall of the button and converging upwardly to terminate in a shallow valve stem-sealing socket. The bottom of the button has no obstructions and no unintended stem-capturing openings. The button socket has a side spray slot closed at the bottom by a radiused flap. Heat-dissipating interior channels are cored from the button top down into the button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Applicant: Precision Valve Corporation,
    Inventor: Christian Bayer
  • Patent number: 6415957
    Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing a heated gel includes a housing having a recess therein, a coupling assembly disposed in the housing and adapted to retain a pressurized gel container in the recess and a heater assembly disposed in the housing. The heater assembly includes a heater selectively operable to develop heat and a heat exchanger in heat transfer relationship with the heater and having a chamber for receiving a quantity of gel. The heater assembly further includes a first valve in fluid communication with a first portion of the chamber and operable to expose the chamber to pressurized gel and a second valve in fluid communication with a second portion of the chamber and operable to allow dispensing of gel without substantial foaming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Michaels, John A. Heathcock, Edward J. Kunesh, David P. Mather, Scott W. Demarest, Darren K. Robling, Thomas J. Szymczak, Clifford S. Eagleton, Eric B. Gach, Paul J. Golko, Dennis W. Gruber
  • Publication number: 20020074349
    Abstract: A shave gel is disposed within a container having a container body defining a space for storage of the product and a valve in fluid communication with the space. A hollow stem is disposed in fluid communication with the valve and includes an exterior end that has at least one side opening therethrough. The valve is actuable to dispense product through the side opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Michaels, John A. Heathcock, Edward J. Kunesh, David P. Mather, Scott W. Demarest, Darren K. Robling, Thomas J. Szymczak, Clifford S. Eagleton, Eric B. Gach, Paul J. Golko, Dennis W. Gruber
  • Patent number: 6405898
    Abstract: The invention features, in general, a foaming product that includes a container, a valve stem extending upward from the top of the container, a nozzle member, and a waste product containment region located above the top of the container. The valve stem is movable downward to permit discharge of the foaming product from the container through the stem. The nozzle member includes a flow passage for directing the foaming product from the top of the valve stem to a discharge outlet and a movable portion that is movable between a discharge position and an inactive position. When the movable portion is in the discharge position, the valve stem is actuated to permit discharge of product into the flow passage and out of the discharge outlet, and the flow passage does not communicate with the containment region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: The Gillette Company
    Inventors: William T. O'Connor, David M. Groh, Timothy Wheatley, Norman D. Poisson, Steven M. Bourque, Henry D. Ren
  • Patent number: 6398082
    Abstract: In the present invention, an actuating mechanism for a hand held canister is provided in which a slider is moveable by finger pressure from a valve-disengaged position into a valve-engagable position and a concealed spring returns the slider to a valve-disengaged position when finger pressure is removed. The spring is preferably molded with the slider, projects through a slit in the over-cap of the canister and acts in a vertical plane against a stop depending from the over-cap. It is energised when the slider is moved into the valve engagable position. The slider is preferably releasably locked in the valve disengaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman Clark, Andrew Claughton, Karen Michelle Dickinson, Adalberto Geier, Nigel Laurence Jackson, Gunter Walter Kolanus, Richard Paul McNabb, Ian Stuart Midgley
  • Patent number: 6382469
    Abstract: An actuator for dispensing the pressurized contents of a container through an upstanding valve stem having a discharge end. The actuator has a body securable to the container and a finger tab for dispensing the container contents upon actuation thereof and a latch to selectively hold the finger tab in the dispensing position or release the finger tab. The finger tab has a valve seat shoulder for contacting the discharge end of the valve stem and is rotatable about a rotational axis which is substantially coplanar with the discharge end of the valve stem in the unactuated position. Resistance reducing notches are provided in the body to allow improved movement of the finger tab. Frangible ribs are provided to avoid the inadvertent actuation of the actuator and also guide movement of the finger tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Precision Thermoplastic Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall E. Carter, Leslie F. Kohli, Brian D. Schumacher
  • Patent number: 6349855
    Abstract: A bottle (1), in particular for perfume, comprises a body (2) having a portion (3) acting as the container for the product, for example perfume, this portion (3) being provided with a delivery part (6) comprising a spray dispenser element (7) positioned on an aperture (5) in the part (6). The product delivery part (6) is encased between lateral shoulders (4) of the bottle (1), between these shoulders there sliding a cover element (8) for the part (5), to lie superposed on this latter, the element (8) being able to assume two positions, in a first of which it prevents product delivery and in a second of which it allows this delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Henkel S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giovanni Borri
  • Publication number: 20020020722
    Abstract: A cap for mounting on an aerosol container, which is able to automatically release the gas remaining therein with a simple action, when the container is to be discarded, said cap comprising a top plate member having a periphery connected to an upper end portion of a tubular body, wherein said top plate member has an aperture and a lid for closing the aperture, said lid has a fixed end which is connected to a margin of the aperture through a bendable line, such that the lid is able to turn from a first position in which the lid closes the aperture, to a second position in which the lid protruding into the tubular body member so as to get in touch with a top face of the discharge head that is depressed downwardly, and the top plate member also has a stopper for fixing the lid in the second position so as to keep the discharge head in such a pressed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Applicant: YOSHINO KOGYOSHO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hideo Uemura, Nobuo Yamanaka, Takayuki Goto, Hiroshi Mizushima, Shigeru Hayakawa, Riichi Ogawa
  • Publication number: 20020008119
    Abstract: Hand held aerosol canisters can be accidentally discharged if the valve remains open after hand pressure is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventors: Norman Clark, Andrew Claughton, Karen Michelle Dickinson, Adalberto Geier, Nigel Laurence Jackson, Gunter Walter Kolanus, Richard Paul Mcnabb, Ian Stuart Midgley
  • Patent number: RE38022
    Abstract: A dispensing head for dispensing a product of liquid to viscous consistency. The head has a fixed part (10) fixed on a dispenser reservoir (3) and a movable part (4) separated from the fixed part by a peripheral cutout and connected thereto in a pivotable manner by a hinge zone (7). The movable part has a connector with a free end (11a) to cause the movable part (4) to communicate with the dispenser valve (2) and actuate the opening of the latter. The cutout (9) is situated substantially between the hinge zone and the fixed part (10), and is situated in a plane perpendicular to an axis of the connector in a position substantially corresponding to the position of the free end (11a) of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Vincent De Laforcade