Abstract: A powder dispenser for a waste disposal system includes a mounting portion that is adapted to be secured to a waste disposal unit, and a container defining an interior space in which a powder such as sodium bicarbonate may be stored. The container is releasably mounted to the underside of a hinged lid member of the waste disposal unit. A directional dispensing system is provided for dispensing powder from the container into a targeted portion of the waste disposal system. The directional dispensing system is constructed and arranged to concentrate initial dispersal of the powder to a single side of the container and includes a dispensing orifice. The dispensing orifice is preferably oriented to limit initial dispersal of the powder within a defined angular range with respect to the longitudinal axis of the lid member, and is spaced axially and laterally with respect to the waste disposal unit at distances that facilitate distribution of the powder to desired targeted portions of the waste disposal unit.

Abstract: A method of emitting a volatile material includes the step of programming a volatile material dispenser to include at least two intensity levels, wherein upon initiation of each of the intensity levels for an operating cycle, a resistor is operated at a first percentage of its power rating for a first period of time. Upon selection of a first of the at least two intensity levels and after the first period of time, the resistor is operated at a second percentage of its power rating for a remainder of an operating cycle. Upon selection of a second of the at least two intensity levels and after the first period of time, the resistor is operated at the second percentage of its power rating for a second period of time and, after the second period of time, operating the resistor at a third percentage of its power rating for a remainder of an operating cycle.

Abstract: A dispensing device for release of an air treatment material includes a semi-permeable substrate having a mesh size between about 15 strands per cm to about 79 strands per cm and a support component for supporting the semi-permeable substrate. The dispensing device releases the air treatment material at a rate of at least about 0.05 mg/hr at about 25° C.

Abstract: A dispenser for a volatile substance, which contains a reservoir and two control elements. The first control element exerts a control function that is dependent on the substance characteristics of the volatile substance and the material characteristics of the constituents of said first control element. However, the second control element exerts a control function that is independent of the substance characteristics of the volatile substance and the material characteristics of the constituents of said first control element. The first control element is located between the reservoir and the second control element and is permeable to at least one volatile substance. The second control element consists of a material that is impermeable to the volatile substance and contains defined material cavities. Perfumes, crop protection agents, pheromones and repellents, which can be released in a controlled manner, constitute the volatile substances.

Abstract: An air freshener removably engages with a structure, such as the supporting post of a rear view mirror of a motor vehicle. The air freshener has a rigidifying core defining a central axis, and an outer portion or sleeve contacting the core that is formed from one or more fragrance loaded polymers. Together, the core and outer portion are shaped to surround a first axis perpendicular to the central axis. The ends of the air freshener are juxtaposed generally opposite one another in closed configuration, and the arm portions of the air freshener flex in directions substantially parallel to the first axis to separate the ends to open the air freshener. A breakable strap and/or connectors may be provided to join the ends together. Alternatively, one end of the air freshener may be inserted within a cavity formed in the opposite end of the air freshener.

Abstract: This invention is a fragrance card, with an attachment device, located within a container, that incorporates a window, which when removed, allows the fragrance of the impregnated card to be released into the ambient atmosphere.

Abstract: The present invention relates to candles capable of diffusing a plurality of volatile active substances simultaneously, a base portion, at least one wick and a plurality of cartridges carrying the volatile active substances to be diffused, the base portion being provided with a plurality of holes adapted to receive the cartridges. The invention further relates to a method for diffusing a plurality of active substances simultaneously comprising manufacturing and burning such candle.

Abstract: Devices and methods for deterring pests are described. In one embodiment, the device comprises a housing, a volatile deterrent agent in the housing, the volatile deterrent agent producing a pest deterrent gas, at least one outlet port in the housing for exit of the pest deterrent gas, a closure member for selectively opening and closing the at least one outlet port, and a support coupled to the housing and providing structural rigidity to the housing. In another embodiment, the method comprises providing a plurality of pest deterrent devices in an area, each pest deterrent device comprising a housing containing a volatile deterrent agent, the volatile deterrent agent producing a pest deterrent gas, and opening a closure member of each pest deterrent device to release the volatile deterrent agent.

Abstract: An air freshening system includes a container 54 having a permeable membrane 120 disposed thereon and a volatile material 56 disposed therein. An impermeable laminate 122 is releasably attached to the permeable membrane 120 and is adapted to be removed therefrom prior to use. An attachment mechanism is adapted to retain the container on a stem 52.

Abstract: A room deodorizer that utilizes an airflow created by a ventilation device within an enclosed room to disperse a deodorizing agent. The room deodorizer is mounted near the bottom edge of a door and includes a deodorizing strip that extends below the bottom edge of the door to the floor. The deodorizing strip obstructs an airflow passageway created between the bottom edge of the door and the floor. The deodorizing strip is impregnated with a deodorizing agent such that when a ventilation device within the room is activated, the created airflow passes through the deodorizing strip to release the deodorizing agent into the enclosed room.

Abstract: Provided herein are essential oils and synthetic compounds, and combinations thereof, as repellent compositions for repelling insects, such as members of the Pentatomoidea superfamily, the Superfamily Coreoidea, and the family Miridae, commonly referred to as stink bugs/shield bugs, squash bugs and plant bugs, respectively. Controlled release devices comprising these repellent compositions are also provided. The repellent compositions may additionally be combined with attractant compositions in a type of “push-pull” method. The use of both repellents and attractants can increase the success rate for controlling stink bugs and the like.

Abstract: This patent covers the any use of vetiver roots material to provide shade, cooling and humidifying effect to any indoor or outdoor area. The use of vetiver root material could be in form of a mat, carpet or rug, however, not limited to them in their use to provide cooling and humidifying effect. A wet or dry mat using vetiver roots is placed in path of any natural or forced air to cool the air that is passing through. The air may be naturally flowing or forced via fan through the mat to provide cooling effect as well as cleaning effect. The patent also covers the use of water with the vetiver mat to provide additional cooling and humidity. The solution significantly reduces energy consumption.

Abstract: A scent-releasing strip includes a release liner and a plurality of tab units coupled to the liner. Each of the plurality of tab units includes a sealed pouch having a pad dosed with at least one scent-emitting substance. The scent may induce a physiological effect. The sealed pouch is disposed on a base label. The pad may be an aroma-containing pad that includes at least one of an oil or other substance that emits a desired fragrance.

Abstract: A method and packages for releasing volatiles of a semiochemical at a controlled or pre-selected rate are disclosed. The package containing the semiochemical includes at least one portion that is permeable to the volatiles. In some embodiments, the package is formed as a stick pack, and includes a plurality of micro-perforations having characteristics, such as size, density, and shape, that are selected to achieve a desired release rate. In an embodiment, the package is formed from a plurality of laminae, and at least one of the laminae is formed from a material that is selected for its permeability to the semiochemical volatiles. In an embodiment, the package includes a portion that is peeled away to expose a layer that is permeable to the semiochemical volatiles.

Abstract: A spill-proof aerator is disclosed that is adapted to flamelessly diffuse a liquid solution into the atmosphere. The device comprises a liquid solution having less than 20% volatile organic compounds housed in a vessel with at least one wall, wherein an opening is disposed in the wall. The device further includes a wick assembly including at least a wick of porous material capable of being disposed in the opening of the vessel for at least partial submergence in the liquid solution. The wick is further disposed for drawing up the liquid solution thorough capillary action. The wick assembly is reusable and adapted to removably seal the opening in the vessel.

Abstract: A thermoformed container is provided for evaporating volatile substances, which is provided with means enabling such container to withstand high temperatures without experiencing deformations which deteriorate its functionality or appearance. The container has a reinforcing film having a deformation temperature exceeding the plastic material sheet with which the container is obtained. Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing said container.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fragrance dispenser for botanical products and methods of use thereof. The fragrance dispenser includes a holding member having a surface for holding a botanical product such as potpourri; a support member for supporting the holding member and for receiving a supply of liquid fragrance; and a plurality of wicking members extending from the supply of liquid fragrance to and upon the holding member surface for transferring the liquid fragrance from the supply to the surface for diffusing the fragrance therefrom.

Abstract: An animal attractant, such as a liquid scent can be dispersed from a frangible housing by attaching the housing to an arrow and firing an arrow in a designated area frequented by animals. The housing has large fins secured about outer periphery of the housing, enlarging the impact surface of the housing and preventing the housing from being embedded in the soil. As a result, the animal attractant is dispersed above the ground and is not lost in the soil.

Abstract: An animal attractant, such as a liquid scent can be dispersed from a soft-shelled frangible capsule by positioning the capsule in an enclosure and then attaching the enclosure to an arrow. A plunger secured to the enclosure slidably moves inside the enclosure and causes rapture of the capsule upon impact of the plunger with a solid surface. The liquid animal attractant is dispersed through cutouts formed in the enclosure in a fan-like fashion.

Abstract: The invention proposes a fragrance dispenser, comprising a first and a second carrier, each carrier comprising one or more fragrance substances, wherein the fragrance substances comprise one or more fragrance substances a) with a vapor pressure of at least 0.1 mmHg at 25° C. (“HVA”) and one or more fragrance substances b) with a vapor pressure of less than 0.1 mmHg at 25° C. (“LVA”), and wherein the fragrance substances are distributed to the first and second carrier such that at least 80 wt.-% of all HVA fragrance substances are carried by the first carrier.

Abstract: Methods and systems for biological control of pests and pest-borne diseases, such as in agriculture, include vapor delivery systems with (a) a reservoir for holding the volatile compound(s), typically in liquid form, to be released into the atmosphere, (b) a means of supplying the reservoir with volatile compound(s), (c) one or more passive flow control nozzles attached to the reservoir, wherein each nozzle is fitted with a permeable polymeric membrane through which the volatile compound permeates and is emitted from the outer membrane surface into the atmosphere, and wherein the individual nozzles are adapted to deliver a specific predetermined release rate for each intended application, and (d) strategic deployment of nozzles (i.e., number, location, spacing, height, etc.) to achieve performance requirements for intended applications ranging from a single plant to large fields for specific ambient conditions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the vapor-phase application of at least one spinosyn to treat pests including, for example, vadult mosquitoes and houseflies.

Abstract: The present invention describes a universal refill containing a volatile liquid adapted for use with at least two different types of emanation device; wherein the universal refill comprises a housing; at least one reservoir in the housing for holding the volatile liquid; at least two valves in the housing in communication with the reservoir, wherein each of said valves is configured to be automatically resealable when not being held open; and wherein each type of device emanates the volatile liquid from the universal refill via a different mechanism to each other type of emanation device and wherein said at least two different types of emanation device each comprise a chassis configured to receive and releasably retain the universal refill.

Abstract: A method of maintaining a desired level of an aerosolized compound within a space to be treated with the compound, the method including providing a diffusion device with the compound in liquid form and a control system for operating the device. The control system includes a sensor in fluid communication with the air within the space to be treated configured to sense the concentration of the compound aerosolized within the space. The diffusion device is operated to diffuse the compound into the space. The concentration of the compound within the space to be treated is sensed with the sensor and operation of the diffusion device is altered based on the concentration of the compound sensed to achieve a desired concentration of compound within the space. The sensing and operation altering steps are repeated periodically to maintain the desired concentration of the compound within the space.

Abstract: Air freshener compositions, devices, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A method for producing low-VOC fragranced hydrogel spheres of improved optical clarity and fragrance delivery is described and comprises the steps of combining a stable oil-in-water fragrance microemulsion absent co-solvents with a coarse dry granular, super-absorbent, hydrogel-forming copolymer. The resulting discrete hydrogel spheres have transparent optical beauty and liberate fragrance into an environment leaving behind only a small amount of emulsifier once evaporated. The air freshener produced by the disclosed method provides decoration in a home when the spheres are placed in a decorative jar.

Abstract: The present invention is a gel air freshener article of manufacture comprising a gel air freshener composition and a container that provides a method for unsealing and opening without undue exertion by the consumer. The article of manufacture according to the present invention includes the gel air freshener composition and a container comprising a base portion and axially displaceable cover in telescopic registry, wherein the cover is axially displaced away from the base portion by rotation. The unsealing of the container is achieved through the coordination of camming locks, which comprise an upper ramped surface, with spike-shaped locking wedges that comprise a beveled toe portion, elongated shaft portion and camming head portion. Rotation of the cover in a first direction relative to the base portion locks the toe end and shaft portions of the spike-shaped locking wedges beneath the camming locks.

Abstract: A fragrance dispenser in constructed of a dispenser body having a top end, a bottom end, a front, a back, a left side and a right side. The front side includes a window to permit at least a portion of the interior of the dispenser body to be viewed from without. Also, the top end includes at least one opening for emitting a fragrance. A container is disposed within the dispenser body and is adapted to hold a liquid fragrance that is to be dispensed. This container is viewable through the window. Further, a dispensing mechanism is disposed within the dispenser body and is configured to dispense liquid fragrance from the container into the atmosphere.

Abstract: A system for consistently emitting a volatile material includes a volatile material dispenser having a diffusion element. The system further includes a refill adapted for disposal within the volatile material dispenser and including a container having a volatile material disposed therein and a wick having a first end disposed in contact with the volatile material in the container and a second end extending out of the container. A time constant for (Parameter 4) for the system is less than or equal to about 1.0 hour when estimated using the equation: Predicted mass change=Parameter4+(Parameter3*T)+(Parameter2*exp(?T/Parameter1)).

Abstract: A method of dispensing at least one test scent within a system includes a server configured to exchange data with a plurality of interactive scent-formulation terminals, each interactive terminal including a plurality of odorous substances, serving when combined in various proportions to create a plurality of scents; dispenser means for dispensing a selection of the odorous substances out from the terminal; a network interface enabling the terminal to communicate with the server; and a user interface; in which method the server automatically sends data to at least one terminal, the data describing at least one formulation enabling the terminal to dispense a test scent, while leaving the user of the terminal free to select the moment at which the test scent is dispensed.

Abstract: An air freshener device includes a base unit and a fragrance cartridge. The base unit includes an electrical connector, a heating element, a pair of interior sidewalls, an interior end wall, and a first shaped feature. The pair of interior sidewalls and the interior end wall extend substantially vertically from the floor portion and cooperate to at least partially define a receptacle. The first shaped feature is associated with one of the floor portion, the interior end wall, and one of the pair of interior sidewalls. The fragrance cartridge includes an absorbent pad, a shell body, and a second shaped feature. The shell body substantially encompasses and supports the absorbent pad and includes a shell wall. The second shaped feature is associated with the shell wall and is configured for mated interaction with the first shaped feature of the base unit.

Abstract: A non-automated dispenser adapted to passively emanate a volatile material at room temperatures via a membrane, in particularly concerned with the emanation of a volatile material such as a fragrance/air freshener, an insecticide, a disinfectant, a bactericide, a fungicide and/or a medicament.

Abstract: An aerosol generator includes a composite conduit to transport multiple liquids to a heating element at flow rates such that the liquids arrive at the heating element in desirable concentrations. The heating element volatilizes the liquids to form volatilized fluid, which mixes with ambient air to form an aerosol with desirable concentrations of the multiple liquids.

Abstract: A method of providing in an atmosphere both a continual supply of volatile liquid and the possibility for a time of an enhanced supply, comprising providing the liquid (3) in a reservoir (1) with an opening, which opening is covered by a membrane (4) of thickness of from 0.05-0.4 mm so as to define within the reservoir and internal evaporation space (6), the continual supply being provided by liquid evaporating within the internal evaporation space and passing through the membrane, and the enhanced supply being provided by evaporation from liquid absorbed in the membrane which has been brought into contact with the liquid and then separated therefrom. The method is easily carried out with a simple, cheap device. A suitable choice of membrane also gives an end-of-life indication by changing color as liquid absorbed therein is disseminated.

Abstract: Methods and devices for emitting volatile materials are disclosed. In some embodiments, methods and devices for emitting two or more fragrance compositions are disclosed. In one non-limiting embodiment of a device, the device has a housing, and the housing is supported on an electrical outlet by a plug at least indirectly joined to the housing. The device contains a first volatile composition and a second volatile composition. The first volatile composition is emitted in an alternating period relative to said second volatile composition. In one embodiment of the method, the volatile compositions are alternately emitted during periods that are greater than 15 minutes and less than 2 hours.

Abstract: A sports team display system combined with vehicle air freshener that aids in a vehicle driver's ability to prominently display his or her support for an athletic team or organization while at the same time provides a pleasant smell to emit throughout the interior of the vehicle. The system is designed so that it will remain in a stationary position while continuing to prominently display itself while emitting the pleasant smell.

Abstract: Packages with at least two moveably engageable portions have one or more aroma providing substances placed at one or more contact points on the portions such that the one or more aroma providing substances are released when the portions are moved relative to each other. The packages can also include one or more aroma providing substances on one or more exterior surfaces of the packages so as to provide a consumer with an immediate sensory impression.

Abstract: An electronically controlled scent producing element (800) constituted of: a plate (860) exhibiting a plurality of perforations extending from a first face of the plate to a second face of the plate opposing the first face; a plurality of micro-plugs (870) juxtaposed with the plate (860), each of the plurality of micro-plugs (870) extending longitudinally from a base end to a tip end, and arranged to mate with one of the plurality of perforations; a translation mechanism in communication with one of the plate (820, 860) and the plurality of micro-plugs (870); and a vibrator in communication with at least one of the plate (820, 860) and the plurality of micro-plugs.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention include an air freshener device that emits fragrance through the evaporation of a fragrance-containing fluid comprising: a container, comprising a particular volume of the fragrance-containing fluid; a wick disposed partially in, and partially out of the fragrance-containing fluid, the wick having an immersion section immersed in the fluid so as to displace a displacement volume of fluid and a non-immersion section extending outward from a surface of the fluid, the immersion and non-immersion section being disposed on opposite lateral ends of the wick; the wick further comprising a displacement portion and a wicking portion, the displacement portion being configured to displace a desired first volume of fluid, the wicking portion being configured to wick a second volume of fluid; the displacement portion and the wicking portion designed to achieve a desired ratio between the displaced first volume of fluid and the wicked second volume of fluid.

Abstract: A method for emitting a fragrance in a mobile device and a mobile device for supporting a fragrance emitting function are provided. The mobile device includes a user database, a fragrance emitting module, and a control unit. The user database includes additive information related to one or more user functions of the mobile device. The fragrance emitting module emits at least one of a plurality of fragrances selected depending on a type of additive information. The control unit, when an event occurs that corresponds to at least one of the one or more user functions, determines whether the event is a specific event correlated with the additive information. The control unit also controls the fragrance emitting module to emit the at least one of the plurality of fragrances in response to the occurrence of the specific event.

Abstract: Disclosed are substrates suited for dispensing air treatment chemicals upon being heated. Granular particles, preferably sand with a phenolic binder, are adhered together to form a substrate body having a network of pores. A volatile air treatment chemical is disposed in the pores. The particle size and pores are such that the smaller particles of the substrate are grouped at one end, preferably an end adjacent to a projecting nose. This structure tends to wick the volatile air treatment chemical towards the nose, and heating that area can lead to efficient, and rechargeable, dispensing. Methods for using such substrates, and methods for forming such substrates, are disclosed.

Abstract: A room deodorizer that utilizes an airflow created by a ventilation device within an enclosed room to disperse a deodorizing agent. The room deodorizer is mounted near the bottom edge of a door and includes a deodorizing strip that extends below the bottom edge of the door to the floor. The deodorizing strip obstructs an airflow passageway created between the bottom edge of the door and the floor. The deodorizing strip is impregnated with a deodorizing agent such that when a ventilation device within the room is activated, the created airflow passes through the deodorizing strip to release the deodorizing agent into the enclosed room.

Abstract: A spill-proof aerator is disclosed that is adapted to flamelessly diffuse a liquid solution into the atmosphere. The device comprises a liquid solution having less than 20% volatile organic compounds housed in a vessel with at least one wall, wherein an opening is disposed in the wall. The device further includes a wick assembly including at least a wick of porous material capable of being disposed in the opening of the vessel for at least partial submergence in the liquid solution. The wick is further disposed for drawing up the liquid solution thorough capillary action. The wick assembly is reusable and adapted to removably seal the opening in the vessel.

Abstract: A volatile material refill includes a container with a volatile material disposed therein, a plug assembly disposed within an opening of the container and adapted to retain a wick extending out of the opening, a sheath covering a portion the wick, and at least one rib extending outwardly from the sheath and adapted to assist in retaining the refill in at least one volatile material dispenser.

Abstract: A volatile material refill includes a container with a volatile material disposed therein, a plug assembly disposed within an opening, and a wick retained within the container by the plug assembly. The refill further includes an attachment connected to a top portion of the container for assisting in retaining the refill in at least one volatile material dispenser.

Abstract: A method of operating a volatile material dispenser includes the step of operating the volatile material dispenser according to a pre-defined algorithm for a first operational cycle. The method further includes the steps of sensing a change in an emission parameter initiated by a user and storing information related to the change in emission parameter. Still further, the method includes the step of operating the volatile material dispenser for a second operational cycle according to a new algorithm, wherein the new algorithm comprises the pre-defined algorithm with modifications according to the change initiated by the user.

Abstract: A dispensing device includes a container having a wall that defines an opening into an interior, a first layer of carrier disposed in the interior distal from the opening, and a second layer of carrier disposed between the first layer and the opening, wherein the first layer of carrier isolates the second layer of carrier from the opening. The first layer of carrier has a first characteristic of an active ingredient, and the second layer of carrier has a second characteristic of active ingredient, wherein the first characteristic is different from the second characteristic. A barrier is disposed between the first layer and the second layer to retard or prevent diffusion of the active ingredient of the second layer into the first layer.

Abstract: A device for generating a scented mist of an atomized liquid fragrance oil includes an atomizer complex, a reservoir assembly, a drainage tube, and a vacuum tube. The atomizer complex can atomize the liquid fragrance oil into a scented mist and deliver the scented mist to air outside of the atomizer complex, where the liquid fragrance oil the fragrance oil that is not atomized into the scented mist delivered to the air outside of the atomizer complex includes collected oil that is collected and drained to a reservoir assembly. A drainage tube extends from a bottom area of the atomizer complex into the liquid fragrance oil. The device can filter the liquid fragrance oil in the reservoir assembly and the collected oil from the atomizer complex that drained down the drainage tube. The vacuum tube can suction the filtered liquid fragrance oil and the collected oil into the atomizer complex for atomization.

Abstract: An apparatus for dispersing a fragrance compound. The apparatus includes a fragrance compound impregnated porous carrier with a film wrapped there about to form an envelope hermetically sealed along at least a first seam in the film. The film is perforated with at least a first slit to define a vent opening removable portion retained to the envelope with at least a first tab of film bridging the first slit. A film vent closure is adhesively applied to the envelope about the vent opening removable portion, thereby forming a substantially complete hermetic seal of the interior of the envelope about the porous carrier. Upon removal, the film vent closure adhesively pulls the vent opening removable portion from the envelope, and the first tab of film is torn, so as to form a vent opening in the envelope, and thereby enabling the fragrance compound to disperse through the vent opening.

Abstract: The invention provides an air treatment device comprising: an airborne agent detector comprising a plurality of airborne agent sensors, wherein the airborne agent detector comprises means to detect a threshold level or concentration of an airborne agent; a means to mount a source of air treatment agent to the device; and a means to expel a portion of air treatment agent from a mounted source of agent, upon detection of an airborne agent by the detector.