EP0160816A2 - Distributor cap for an aerosol - Google Patents

Distributor cap for an aerosol Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0160816A2
EP0160816A2 EP85103260A EP85103260A EP0160816A2 EP 0160816 A2 EP0160816 A2 EP 0160816A2 EP 85103260 A EP85103260 A EP 85103260A EP 85103260 A EP85103260 A EP 85103260A EP 0160816 A2 EP0160816 A2 EP 0160816A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
capsule
dispenser
tubular extension
feed channel
button
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP85103260A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0160816B1 (en
EP0160816A3 (en
Inventor
Gmbh Coster
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to AT85103260T priority Critical patent/ATE54283T1/en
Publication of EP0160816A2 publication Critical patent/EP0160816A2/en
Publication of EP0160816A3 publication Critical patent/EP0160816A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0160816B1 publication Critical patent/EP0160816B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/14—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant
    • B65D83/16—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means
    • B65D83/20—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means operated by manual action, e.g. button-type actuator or actuator caps
    • B65D83/205—Actuator caps, or peripheral actuator skirts, attachable to the aerosol container
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/14—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant
    • B65D83/16—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means
    • B65D83/22—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means with a mechanical means to disable actuation
    • B65D83/224—Tamper indicating means obstructing initial actuation, e.g. removable
    • B65D83/226—Tamper indicating means obstructing initial actuation, e.g. removable preventing initial depression of the actuator
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/14—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant
    • B65D83/16—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means
    • B65D83/22—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means with a mechanical means to disable actuation
    • B65D83/224—Tamper indicating means obstructing initial actuation, e.g. removable
    • B65D83/228—Tamper indicating means obstructing initial actuation, e.g. removable consisting of a rupturable connection between actuator element and actuator cap or skirt, e.g. tear strips or bridges

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a dispenser capsule for aerosol containers according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such a dispenser capsule is known from DE-GM 8 106 470.
  • the construction described there has proven itself in practice both in terms of production technology and handling technology. Characterized in that in the known embodiment, the feed channel is arranged immediately below the top or actuation side of the actuation button, it is necessary to establish a fluid connection between the feed channel and the valve tube protruding from the lid of the aerosol container, the in or on the valve tube mentioned to form insertable or attachable tubular extension relatively long. This has to one consequence that an unnecessary fluid space is created in the tubular extension, from which, after the spraying process has ended, that is to say after the actuation button has been released, the container contents are still sprayed out. This uncontrolled “spraying" is perceived as unpleasant and is therefore undesirable.
  • the relatively long-formed tubular attachment of the lack adheres to that at the beginning of the spraying operation, it actually starts after filling-in of the tubular extension and of the supply passage, that is with not inconsiderable time delay relative to the actuation of the Betätigun g S button.
  • the relatively long tubular approach results in manufacturing problems. Due to the material mass caused by the tubular attachment, a relatively long cooling time is required before the capsule housing can be removed from the injection mold. The degree of utilization of the injection molding machine is limited accordingly.
  • the relatively long tubular extension has the disadvantage that the action on the valve tube when tilting the actuation button around the articulation is very unfavorable. Due to the long lever arm corresponding to the tubular extension, the valve tube is heavily loaded laterally, which causes the tightness between the tubular extension and the valve tube to suffer, and as a result the valve tube and its storage in the container lid can be easily damaged.
  • the object of the present invention is to avoid the disadvantages of the known distributor capsule, ie to design them in such a way that the tubular extension for establishing a fluid connection between the feeder connected to the distributor nozzle channel and the valve tube protruding from the lid of the aerosol container has a minimal overall length.
  • the tubular extension can have the shape of a cap, specifically when the outlet opening of the valve tube stored in the lid of the aerosol container is in the closed state of the same at approximately the height, preferably just below, of the articulated connection between the actuation button and the capsule housing.
  • the fluid space formed by the feed channel and the tubular extension is a minimum.
  • the time delay at the start of the spraying process is also minimal.
  • the lateral action of the tubular extension on the valve tube when actuating or tilting the actuation button around the articulation is minimal, so that there are no more sealing problems between the tubular extension and the valve tube. There is also no longer any risk of damage to the valve tube or its storage in the container lid due to the tubular extension.
  • the use of materials is reduced, especially in the area of the centrally arranged tubular attachment, with the result of a reduced cooling time and a higher ejection rate of the injection molding machine.
  • the actuation button has a recess extending up to this above the feed channel which extends approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis of the capsule.
  • This recess has fertigun especially g s technical advantages, as this undercuts can be avoided in order to avoid material accumulations.
  • the recess is advantageously dimensioned according to claim 3 and designed according to claim 4.
  • the articulated connection between the actuation button and the capsule housing can be designed in accordance with DE-GM 8 106 470.
  • the formation of separate joint webs can, however, be avoided if the front wall of the actuating button, which has the dispensing nozzle, is formed as a continuation of the capsule wall by forming the articulated connection between the same and the capsule housing such that an articulated axis extending approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis of the capsule in the transition area between the front wall of the actuating button and the capsule wall is created.
  • This articulated connection is considerably easier in terms of production technology than the formation of articulated webs in accordance with DE-GM 8 106 470. Above all, the injection molding tool can be made correspondingly simpler.
  • the dispenser capsule shown in the figures is intended for aerosol containers 10, which can be made of aluminum, preferably tinplate.
  • the dispenser capsule has an essentially cylindrical capsule housing 1, on which an actuation button 2 is formed in one piece.
  • the actuation button 2 is arranged in a recess 3 of the cylindrical capsule housing 1 which extends across the surface.
  • the actuation button comprises a central tubular extension 6 which can be inserted or placed in or on valve tubes 11 of the aerosol container 10, a dispensing nozzle 8 and one on this one hand and on the tubular extension 6 on the other hand connected supply channel 7 for the contents to be distributed, eg liquid.
  • the actuation button 2 is connected to the capsule housing 1 at its rear end by means of separating webs 5 having predetermined breaking points and at the other end via an articulated connection 4.
  • the articulated connection 4 is formed in that the front wall 14 of the actuating button 2, which has the dispensing nozzle 8, is designed as a continuation of the capsule wall 15, such that an articulated axis extending approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis 12 of the capsule in the transition region between the front wall 14 of the actuating button 2 and the capsule wall 15 arises.
  • the separating webs 5 are broken through and the actuation button 2 is tilted downward from the position corresponding to FIG. 3 into the position shown in FIG. 4 about the hinge axis 16 defined above.
  • the Trennste e g 5 show the same whether unauthorized use of the contents of the aerosol container has taken place or not.
  • the above-mentioned distributor nozzle 8, to which the feed channel 7 is connected, is accommodated in a conventional recess provided in the front wall 14 of the actuation button 2.
  • the capsule housing 1 is provided in the region of its lower edge with locking projections 9 which interact elastically with special recesses arranged on the aerosol container or on the valve tube 11.
  • valve tube 11 protruding from the lid of the aerosol container 10 is pressed into the container when pressure is applied or the actuation button 2 is pressed, whereby the valve arranged in the container lid is opened in a manner known per se, so that 11 liquid can escape from the container 10 under pressure through the valve tube.
  • the overall length of the centrally arranged tubular extension 6 is minimal due to the arrangement of the feed channel 7 directly above the articulated connection 4 or articulated axis 16.
  • the tubular extension 6 is reduced to a cap placed over the outlet opening of the valve tube 11.
  • the actuation g button 2 has a recess 13 which extends as far as the feed channel 7.
  • the clear width of the recess 13 corresponds approximately to the outer diameter of the feed channel 7.
  • the longitudinal extent of the recess 13 corresponds approximately to the length of the feed channel 7 plus the average diameter of the tubular extension 6.
  • the recess 13 is only open at the top. It could also be designed to be open towards the front or only towards the front.
  • the recess 13, which is approximately gap-like in this case, is obtained by a corresponding sword-like part of the injection molding tool, this part being provided with cooling channels for additionally reducing the dwell time of the distributor capsule in the injection molding tool.
  • the dispenser capsule can be easily adapted to a wide variety of aerosol containers in terms of its dimensions and according to requirements. This also applies to the inwardly projecting locking projections 9 in the area of the lower edge of the capsule housing 1.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
  • Nozzles (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
  • Colloid Chemistry (AREA)
  • Cosmetics (AREA)
  • Medicinal Preparation (AREA)

Abstract

1. Dispenser capsule for aerosol containers (10), consisting of a capsule housing (1) and an actuating button (2) with a tubular extension (6) insertable into or attachable onto a valve tube (11) of the aerosol container (10), with a dispenser nozzle (8) and with a feed channel (7) connected to the latter on the one hand and to the tubular extension (6) on the other hand and as part of the actuating button (2) for the container content to be dispensed, the actuating button (2) being so shaped in one piece with the capsule housing (1) that it is connected to the capsule housing (1) at its rear end by means of separating webs (5) having predetermined breaking points and at the other end via a pivot joint (4), characterized in that the feed channel (7) extends immediately above the pivot joint (4) between the dispenser nozzle (8) and the tubular extension (6) and is placed so much lower than the upper face of the dispenser capsule that the distance from the upper face is greater than the length of the tubular extension (6).

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Austeilerkapsel für Aerosolbehälter gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Anspruches 1.The invention relates to a dispenser capsule for aerosol containers according to the preamble of claim 1.

Eine derartige Austeilerkapsel ist aus dem DE-GM 8 106 470 bekannt. Die dort beschriebene Konstruktion hat sich in der Praxis sowohl fertigungstechnisch als auch handhabungstechnisch hervorragend bewährt. Dadurch, daß bei der bekannten Ausführungsform der Zuführungskanal jedoch unmittelbar unterhalb der Ober- bzw. Betätigungsseite der Betätigungstaste angeordnet ist, ist es zur Herstellung einer Fluidverbindung zwischen dem Zuführungskanal und dem aus dem Deckel des Aerosolbehälters herausragenden Ventilröhrchen erforderlich, den in oder auf das erwähnte Ventilröhrchen ein- bzw. aufsetzbaren rohrförmigen Ansatz relativ lang auszubilden. Dies hat zum einen zur Folge, daß im rohrförmigen Ansatz ein unnötiger Fluidraum geschaffen wird, aus dem nach Beendigung des Sprühvorgangs, also nach Loslassen der Betätigungstaste, sich noch befindlicher Behälterinhalt aussprüht. Dieses unkontrollierte "Nachsprühen" wird als unangenehm empfunden und ist daher unerwünscht. Ferner haftet dem relativ lang ausgebildeten rohrförmigen Ansatz der Mangel an, daß bei Beginn des Sprühvorganges dieser tatsächlich erst nach Ausfüllung des rohrförmigen Ansatzes sowie des Zuführungskanals beginnt, also mit nicht unbeachtlicher zeitlicher Verzögerung gegenüber der Betätigung der Betätigungs-taste.Such a dispenser capsule is known from DE-GM 8 106 470. The construction described there has proven itself in practice both in terms of production technology and handling technology. Characterized in that in the known embodiment, the feed channel is arranged immediately below the top or actuation side of the actuation button, it is necessary to establish a fluid connection between the feed channel and the valve tube protruding from the lid of the aerosol container, the in or on the valve tube mentioned to form insertable or attachable tubular extension relatively long. This has to one consequence that an unnecessary fluid space is created in the tubular extension, from which, after the spraying process has ended, that is to say after the actuation button has been released, the container contents are still sprayed out. This uncontrolled "spraying" is perceived as unpleasant and is therefore undesirable. Further, the relatively long-formed tubular attachment of the lack adheres to that at the beginning of the spraying operation, it actually starts after filling-in of the tubular extension and of the supply passage, that is with not inconsiderable time delay relative to the actuation of the Betätigun g S button.

Zum anderen hat der relativ lang ausgebildete rohrförmige Ansatz fertigungstechnische Probleme zur Folge. Aufgrund der durch den rohrförmigen Ansatz bedingten Werkstoffmasse ist eine relativ lange Kühlzeit erforderlich, bevor das Kapselgehäuse aus der Spritzform entfernt werden kann. Der Nutzungsgrad der Spritzgießmaschine ist entsprechend beschränkt.On the other hand, the relatively long tubular approach results in manufacturing problems. Due to the material mass caused by the tubular attachment, a relatively long cooling time is required before the capsule housing can be removed from the injection mold. The degree of utilization of the injection molding machine is limited accordingly.

Schließlich hat der relativ lang ausgebildete rohrförmige Ansatz noch den Nachteil, daß die Einwirkung auf das Ventilröhrchen beim Kippen der Betätigungstaste um Gelenkverbindung sehr ungünstig ist. Durch den dem rohrförmigen Ansatz entsprechend langen Hebelarm wird das Ventilröhrchen seitlich stark belastet, worunter die Dichtigkeit zwischen dem rohrförmigen Ansatz und dem Ventilröhrchen leidet und wodurch das Ventilröhrchen sowie dessen Lagerung im Behälterdeckel sehr leicht beschädigt werden können.Finally, the relatively long tubular extension has the disadvantage that the action on the valve tube when tilting the actuation button around the articulation is very unfavorable. Due to the long lever arm corresponding to the tubular extension, the valve tube is heavily loaded laterally, which causes the tightness between the tubular extension and the valve tube to suffer, and as a result the valve tube and its storage in the container lid can be easily damaged.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, die genannten Nachteile der bekannten Austeilerkapsel zu vermeiden, d.h. so auszubilden, daß der rohrförmige Ansatz zur Herstellung einer Fluidverbindung zwischen dem an der Austeilerdüse angeschlossenen Zuführungskanal und dem aus dem Deckel des Aerosolbehälters herausragenden Ventilröhrchen eine minimale Baulänge aufweist.The object of the present invention is to avoid the disadvantages of the known distributor capsule, ie to design them in such a way that the tubular extension for establishing a fluid connection between the feeder connected to the distributor nozzle channel and the valve tube protruding from the lid of the aerosol container has a minimal overall length.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß in überraschend einfacher Weise dadurch gelöst, daß der Zuführungskanal als Teil der Betätigungstaste sich unmittelbar oberhalb der Gelenkverbindung zwischen der Austeilerdüse und dem in oder auf das Ventilröhrchen des Aerosolbehälters ein- bzw. aufsetzbaren rohrförmigen Ansatz erstreckt.This object is achieved in a surprisingly simple manner in that the feed channel as part of the actuation button extends directly above the articulated connection between the dispensing nozzle and the tubular extension which can be inserted or placed in or on the valve tube of the aerosol container.

Durch diese konstruktive Maßnahme wird eine minimale Baulänge des rohrförmigen Ansatzes erreicht. Der rohrförmige Ansatz kann im Extremfall die Form einer Kappe haben, und zwar dann, wenn sich die Auslaßöffnung des im Deckel des Aerosolbehälters gelagerten Ventilröhrchens im geschlossenen Zustand desselben etwa auf Höhe, vorzugsweise knapp unterhalb, der Gelenkverbindung zwischen Betätigungstaste und Kapselgehäuse befindet. Dadurch ist der durch den Zuführungskanal und den rohrförmigen Ansatz gebildete Fluidraum ein Minimum. Es tritt praktisch kein unerwünschtes "Nachsprühen" nach Loslassen der Betätigungstaste mehr auf. Auch ist die zeitliche Verzögerung beim Beginn des Sprühvorganges minimal. Vor allem ist die seitliche Einwirkung des rohrförmigen Ansatzes auf das Ventilröhrchen beim Betätigen bzw. Kippen der Betätigungstaste um die Gelenkverbindung minimal, so daß keine Dichtigkeitsprobleme zwischen rohrförmigem Ansatz und Ventilröhrchen mehr auftreten. Es besteht auch nicht mehr die Gefahr einer Beschädigung des Ventilröhrchens oder dessen Lagerung im Behälterdeckel durch den rohrförmigen Ansatz. Schließlich ist bei der erfindungsgemäßen Ausbildung der Austeilerkapsel der Materialeinsatz reduziert, vor allem im Bereich des zentral angeordneten rohrförmigen Ansatzes mit der Folge einer verringerten Kühlzeit und einer höheren Ausstoßrate der Spritzgießmaschine.This constructive measure achieves a minimum overall length of the tubular extension. In extreme cases, the tubular extension can have the shape of a cap, specifically when the outlet opening of the valve tube stored in the lid of the aerosol container is in the closed state of the same at approximately the height, preferably just below, of the articulated connection between the actuation button and the capsule housing. As a result, the fluid space formed by the feed channel and the tubular extension is a minimum. There is practically no undesired "spraying" after releasing the actuation button. The time delay at the start of the spraying process is also minimal. Above all, the lateral action of the tubular extension on the valve tube when actuating or tilting the actuation button around the articulation is minimal, so that there are no more sealing problems between the tubular extension and the valve tube. There is also no longer any risk of damage to the valve tube or its storage in the container lid due to the tubular extension. Finally, in the configuration of the dispenser capsule according to the invention, the use of materials is reduced, especially in the area of the centrally arranged tubular attachment, with the result of a reduced cooling time and a higher ejection rate of the injection molding machine.

Vorzugsweise weist die Betätigungstaste oberhalb des sich etwa quer zur Kapsellängsachse erstreckenden Zuführungskanals eine bis zu diesem reichende Ausnehmung auf. Diese Ausnehmung hat vor allem fertigungs-technische Vorteile, da dadurch Hinterschneidungen zur Vermeidung von Materialanhäufungen vermieden werden können. Die Ausnehmung ist vorteilhafterweise entsprechend Anspruch 3 dimensioniert und entsprechend Anspruch 4 ausgebildet.Preferably, the actuation button has a recess extending up to this above the feed channel which extends approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis of the capsule. This recess has fertigun especially g s technical advantages, as this undercuts can be avoided in order to avoid material accumulations. The recess is advantageously dimensioned according to claim 3 and designed according to claim 4.

Die Gelenkverbindung zwischen der Betätigungstaste und dem Kapselgehäuse kann entsprechend dem DE-GM 8 106 470 ausgebildet sein. Die Ausbildung gesonderter Gelenkstege kann jedoch vermieden werden, wenn die die Austeilerdüse aufweisende Vorderwand der Betätigungstaste unter Ausbildung der Gelenkverbindung zwischen derselben und dem Kapselgehäuse als Fortsetzung der Kapselwand ausgebildet ist derart, daß eine sich etwa quer zur Kapsellängsachse erstreckende Gelenkachse im übergangsbereich zwischen Vorderwand der Betätigungstaste und der Kapselwand entsteht. Diese Gelenkverbindung ist fertigungstechnisch erheblich problemloser als die Ausbildung von Gelenkstegen entsprechend dem DE-GM 8 106 470. Vor allem kann das Spritzgieß-Werkzeug entsprechend einfacher gestaltet werden.The articulated connection between the actuation button and the capsule housing can be designed in accordance with DE-GM 8 106 470. The formation of separate joint webs can, however, be avoided if the front wall of the actuating button, which has the dispensing nozzle, is formed as a continuation of the capsule wall by forming the articulated connection between the same and the capsule housing such that an articulated axis extending approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis of the capsule in the transition area between the front wall of the actuating button and the capsule wall is created. This articulated connection is considerably easier in terms of production technology than the formation of articulated webs in accordance with DE-GM 8 106 470. Above all, the injection molding tool can be made correspondingly simpler.

Im übrigen werden bei der Erfindung die Vorteile der Austeilerkapsel nach dem DE-GM 8 106 470 in vollem Umfange beibehalten. Diese Vorteile sind darin zu sehen, daß durch die einstückige Herstellung von Betätigungstaste und Kapselgehäuse in fertigungstech- nischer Hinsicht eine Vereinfachung erreicht wird. Darüberhinaus ergibt sich in bedienungstechnischer und funktioneller Hinsicht eine Vereinfachung gegenüber dem übrigen Stand der Technik, da bei Ingebrauchnahme zusätzliche Abdeckungen für die Betätigungstaste nicht mehr entfernt werden müssen und ein Trennen von Betätigungstaste und Kapselgehäuse nicht mehr erforderlich ist.Otherwise, the advantages of the dispenser capsule according to DE-GM 8 106 470 are retained in full in the invention. These advantages include the fact that simplification is achieved by the one-piece production of actuating button and capsule housing in fertigun g piercing nical aspects. In addition, there is a simplification in terms of operation and functionality compared to the other prior art, since additional covers for the actuation button when used no longer need to be removed and it is no longer necessary to separate the actuation button and capsule housing.

Im folgenden wird eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäß ausgebildeten Austeilerkapsel anhand der beigefügten Zeichnung näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

  • Fig. 1 die Vorder- bzw. Sprühseite einer erfindungsgemäß ausgebildeten Austeilerkapsel in perspektivischer Darstellung;
  • Fig. 2 die Rückseite der Austeilerkapsel nach Fig. 1 in perspektivischer Darstellung;
  • Fig. 3 die auf den oberen Rand eines Aerosolbehälters aufgesetzte Austeilerkapsel nach den Fig. 1 und 2 im Vertikalschnitt bei unbetätigter Betätigungstaste; und
  • Fig. 4 die Austeilerkapsel entsprechend Fig. 3 bei betätigter Betätigungstaste.
A preferred embodiment of a dispenser capsule designed according to the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the attached drawing. Show it:
  • Figure 1 shows the front or spray side of a dispenser capsule designed according to the invention in a perspective view.
  • Fig. 2 shows the back of the dispenser capsule according to Fi g . 1 in perspective;
  • Fig. 3 on the upper edge of an aerosol container dispenser capsule according to the Fi g . 1 and 2 in vertical section with the actuation button not actuated; and
  • Fig. 4, the dispenser capsule corresponding to Fig. 3 when the actuation button is pressed.

Die in den Figuren dargestellte Austeilerkapsel ist für Aerosolbehälter 10 bestimmt, die aus Aluminium-, vorzugsweise Weißblech, hergestellt sein können. Die Austeilerkapsel besitzt ein im wesentlichen zylindrisches Kapselgehäuse 1, an dem einteilig eine Betätigungstaste 2 ausgeformt ist. Die Betätigungstaste 2 ist in einer sich quer über die Oberfläche erstreckenden Ausnehmung 3 des zylindrischen Kapselgehäuses 1 angeordnet. Die Betätigungstaste umfaßt einen zentralen rohrförmigen Ansatz 6, der in oder auf Ventilröhrchen 11 des Aerosolbehälters 10 ein- bzw. aufsetzbar ist, eine Austeilerdüse 8 und einen an dieser einerseits und an den rohrförmigen Ansatz 6 andererseits angeschlossenen Zuführungskanal 7 für den auszuteilenden Behälterinhalt, z.B. Flüssigkeit. Die Betätigungstaste 2 ist mit dem Kapselgehäuse 1 an ihrem rückwärtigen Ende mittels Sollbruchstellen aufweisender Trennstege 5 und am anderen Ende über eine Gelenkverbindung 4 verbunden. Die Gelenkverbindung 4 wird dadurch gebildet, daß die die Austeilerdüse 8 aufweisende Vorderwand 14 der Betätigungstaste 2 als Fortsetzung der Kapselwand 15 gestaltet ist, derart, daß eine sich etwa quer zur Kapsellängsachse 12 erstreckende Gelenkachse im übergangsbereich zwischen Vorderwand 14 der Betätigungstaste 2 und der Kapselwand 15 entsteht.The dispenser capsule shown in the figures is intended for aerosol containers 10, which can be made of aluminum, preferably tinplate. The dispenser capsule has an essentially cylindrical capsule housing 1, on which an actuation button 2 is formed in one piece. The actuation button 2 is arranged in a recess 3 of the cylindrical capsule housing 1 which extends across the surface. The actuation button comprises a central tubular extension 6 which can be inserted or placed in or on valve tubes 11 of the aerosol container 10, a dispensing nozzle 8 and one on this one hand and on the tubular extension 6 on the other hand connected supply channel 7 for the contents to be distributed, eg liquid. The actuation button 2 is connected to the capsule housing 1 at its rear end by means of separating webs 5 having predetermined breaking points and at the other end via an articulated connection 4. The articulated connection 4 is formed in that the front wall 14 of the actuating button 2, which has the dispensing nozzle 8, is designed as a continuation of the capsule wall 15, such that an articulated axis extending approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis 12 of the capsule in the transition region between the front wall 14 of the actuating button 2 and the capsule wall 15 arises.

Bei Druckbeaufschlagung der Betätigungstaste 2 werden die Trennstege 5 durchbrochen und die Betätigungstaste 2 aus einer Lage entsprechend Fig. 3 in eine Lage entsprechend Fig. 4 nach unten um die oben definierte Gelenkachse 16 gekippt. Die Trennstege 5 zeigen gleichzeitig an, ob eine unbefugte Benutzung des Inhaltes des Aerosolbehälters stattgefunden hat oder nicht.When the actuation button 2 is pressurized, the separating webs 5 are broken through and the actuation button 2 is tilted downward from the position corresponding to FIG. 3 into the position shown in FIG. 4 about the hinge axis 16 defined above. The Trennste e g 5 show the same whether unauthorized use of the contents of the aerosol container has taken place or not.

Die oben erwähnte Austeilerdüse 8, an der der Zuführungskanal 7 angeschlossen ist, ist in einer üblichen, in der Vorderwand 14 der Betätigungstaste 2 vorgesehenen Ausnehmung untergebracht.The above-mentioned distributor nozzle 8, to which the feed channel 7 is connected, is accommodated in a conventional recess provided in the front wall 14 of the actuation button 2.

Zur Befestigung der Austeilerkapsel an einem Aerosolbehälter 10 ist das Kapselgehäuse 1 im Bereich seines unteren Randes mit Rastvorsprüngen 9 versehen, welche elastisch mit besonderen am Aerosolbehälter oder am Ventilröhrchen 11 angeordneten Ausnehmungen wechselwirken.To attach the dispenser capsule to an aerosol container 10, the capsule housing 1 is provided in the region of its lower edge with locking projections 9 which interact elastically with special recesses arranged on the aerosol container or on the valve tube 11.

Wie die Fig. 3 und 4 erkennen lassen, wird bei Druckbeaufschlagung bzw. beim Betätigen der Betätigungstaste 2 das aus dem Deckel des Aerosolbehälters 10 herausragende Ventilröhrchen 11 in den Behälter hineingedrückt, wodurch in an sich bekannter Weise das im Behälterdeckel angeordnete Ventil geöffnet wird, so daß durch das Ventilröhrchen 11 Flüssigkeit unter Druck aus dem Behälter 10 austreten kann. Wie die Fig. 3 und 4 ferner erkennen lassen, ist durch die Anordnung des Zuführungskanals 7 unmittelbar oberhalb der Gelenkverbindung 4 bzw. Gelenkachse 16 die Baulänge des zentral angeordneten rohrförmigen Ansatzes 6 minimal. Der rohrförmige Ansatz 6 ist zu einer über die Auslaßöffnung des Ventilröhrchens 11 gestülpten Kappe reduziert. Die dadurch erhaltenen Vorteile sind einleitend ausführlich dargelegt. Es wird auf die entsprechenden Ausführungen verwiesen.As can be seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, the valve tube 11 protruding from the lid of the aerosol container 10 is pressed into the container when pressure is applied or the actuation button 2 is pressed, whereby the valve arranged in the container lid is opened in a manner known per se, so that 11 liquid can escape from the container 10 under pressure through the valve tube. As can also be seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, the overall length of the centrally arranged tubular extension 6 is minimal due to the arrangement of the feed channel 7 directly above the articulated connection 4 or articulated axis 16. The tubular extension 6 is reduced to a cap placed over the outlet opening of the valve tube 11. The advantages thus obtained are explained in detail in the introduction. Reference is made to the corresponding explanations.

Oberhalb des sich etwa quer zur Kapsellängsachse 12 erstreckenden Zuführungskanals 7 weist die Betätigungs-taste 2 eine bis zum Zuführungskanal 7 reichende Ausnehmung 13 auf. Die lichte Weite der Ausnehmung 13 entspricht etwa dem Außendurchmesser des Zuführungskanals 7. Die Längserstreckung der Ausnehmung 13 entspricht etwa der Länge des Zuführungskanals 7 plus mittlerer Durchmesser des rohrförmigen Ansatzes 6. Bei dem hier dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel ist die Ausnehmung 13 nur nach oben offen ausgebildet. Sie könnte zusätzlich nach vorne oder nur nach vorne offen ausgebildet sein. Die hier etwa spaltartig ausgebildete Ausnehmung 13 wird durch ein entsprechendes schwertartiges Teil des Spritzgieß-Werkzeuges erhalten, wobei dieses Teil mit Kühlkanälen versehen ist zur zusätzlichen Reduzierung der Verweilzeit der Austeilerkapsel im Spritzgieß-Werkzeug. Durch diese Maßnahme läßt sich die Ausstoßrate im Vergleich zu der bekannten Ausführungsform um etwa 25 bis 30 % steigern. Diese Steigerung schlägt bei den hier üblichen Millionenstückzahlen pro Jahr ganz erheblich zu Buche. Darüberhinaus läßt sich durch die erfindungsgemäßen Maßnahmen auch der Materialeinsatz im Vergleich zu der bekannten Ausführungsform nach dem DE-GM 8 106 470 nicht unbeachtlich reduzieren.Above the feed channel 7, which extends approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis 12 of the capsule, the actuation g button 2 has a recess 13 which extends as far as the feed channel 7. The clear width of the recess 13 corresponds approximately to the outer diameter of the feed channel 7. The longitudinal extent of the recess 13 corresponds approximately to the length of the feed channel 7 plus the average diameter of the tubular extension 6. In the embodiment shown here, the recess 13 is only open at the top. It could also be designed to be open towards the front or only towards the front. The recess 13, which is approximately gap-like in this case, is obtained by a corresponding sword-like part of the injection molding tool, this part being provided with cooling channels for additionally reducing the dwell time of the distributor capsule in the injection molding tool. This measure allows the ejection rate to be compared to that known Increase embodiment by about 25 to 30%. This increase has a significant impact on the usual millions of units per year. In addition, the use of materials in comparison with the known embodiment according to DE-GM 8 106 470 cannot be negligibly reduced by the measures according to the invention.

Die Austeilerkapsel kann in Bezug auf ihre Abmessungen und entsprechend den Erfordernissen auf einfache Weise den unterschiedlichsten Aerosolbehältern angepaßt werden. Dies gilt auch für die nach innen ragenden Rastvorsprünge 9 im Bereich des unteren Randes des Kapselgehäuses 1.The dispenser capsule can be easily adapted to a wide variety of aerosol containers in terms of its dimensions and according to requirements. This also applies to the inwardly projecting locking projections 9 in the area of the lower edge of the capsule housing 1.

Claims (5)

1. Austeilerkapsel für Aerosolbehälter (10), bestehend aus Kapselgehäuse (1) und Betätigungstaste (2) mit einem rohrförmigen Ansatz (6), der in oder auf ein Ventilröhrchen (11) des Aerosolbehälters (10) ein- bzw. aufsetzbar ist, mit einer Austeilerdüse (8), und mit einem an dieser einerseits und an den rohrförmigen Ansatz (6) andererseits angeschlossenen Zuführungskanal (7) für den auszuteilenden Behälterinhalt, wobei die Betätigungstaste (2) einstückig mit dem Kapselgehäuse (1) ausgeformt ist, derart, daß sie an ihrem rückwärtigen Ende mittels Sollbruchstellen aufweisender Trennstege (5) und am anderen Ende über eine Gelenkverbindung (4) mit dem Kapselgehäuse (1) verbunden ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet , daß der Zuführungskanal (7) als Teil der Betätigungstaste (2) sich unmittelbar oberhalb der Gelenkverbindung (4) zwischen der Austeilerdüse (8) und dem rohrförmigen Ansatz (6) erstreckt.1. dispenser capsule for aerosol container (10), consisting of capsule housing (1) and actuation button (2) with a tubular extension (6) which can be inserted or placed in or on a valve tube (11) of the aerosol container (10) a dispensing nozzle (8), and with a supply channel (7) connected to this on the one hand and to the tubular extension (6) on the other hand, for the contents of the container to be dispensed, the actuating button (2) being formed in one piece with the capsule housing (1) in such a way that it is connected at its rear end by means of dividers (5) with predetermined breaking points and at the other end via an articulated connection (4) to the capsule housing (1), characterized in that the feed channel (7) is part of the actuation button (2) extends directly above the articulation (4) between the distributor nozzle (8) and the tubular extension (6). 2. Austeilerkapsel nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet , daß die Betätigungstaste (2) oberhalb des sich etwa quer zur Kapsellängsachse (12) erstreckenden Zuführungskanals (7) eine bis zu diesem reichende Ausnehmung (13) aufweist.2. dispenser capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that the actuating button (2) above the approximately transversely to the capsule longitudinal axis (12) extending feed channel (7) has a recess (13) extending up to this. 3. Austeilerkapsel nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet , daß die lichte Weite und Länge der Ausnehmung (13) etwa dem Außendurchmesser bzw. der Länge des Zuführungskanals (7) entsprechen.3. dispenser capsule according to claim 2, characterized in that the clear width and length of the recess (13) correspond approximately to the outer diameter or the length of the feed channel (7). 4. Austeilerkapsel nach Anspruch 2 oder 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet , daß die Ausnehmung (13) nach oben und/oder nach vorne offen ausgebildet ist.4. dispenser capsule according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the recess (13) is open at the top and / or forward. 5. Austeilerkapsel nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet , daß die die Austeilerdüse (8) aufweisende Vorderwand (14) der Betätigungstaste (2) unter Ausbildung der Gelenkverbindung (4) zwischen dieser und dem Kapselgehäuse (1) als Fortsetzung der Kapselwand (15) ausgebildet ist, derart, daß eine sich etwa quer zur Kapsellängsachse (12) erstreckende Gelenkachse (16) im Übergangsbereich zwischen Vorderwand (14) der Betätigungstaste (2) und der Kapselwand (15) entsteht.5. dispenser capsule according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the dispenser nozzle (8) having front wall (14) of the actuating button (2) while forming the articulated connection (4) between it and the capsule housing (1) as a continuation of the capsule wall (15) is designed such that an articulated axis (16) extending approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis of the capsule (12) is formed in the transition region between the front wall (14) of the actuation button (2) and the capsule wall (15).
EP85103260A 1984-05-10 1985-03-20 Distributor cap for an aerosol Expired - Lifetime EP0160816B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT85103260T ATE54283T1 (en) 1984-05-10 1985-03-20 DISTRIBUTION CAPSULE FOR AEROSOL CONTAINERS.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE8414326U 1984-05-10
DE8414326U DE8414326U1 (en) 1984-05-10 1984-05-10 Dispenser capsule for aerosol containers

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0160816A2 true EP0160816A2 (en) 1985-11-13
EP0160816A3 EP0160816A3 (en) 1988-02-03
EP0160816B1 EP0160816B1 (en) 1990-07-04

Family

ID=6766742

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP85103260A Expired - Lifetime EP0160816B1 (en) 1984-05-10 1985-03-20 Distributor cap for an aerosol

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0160816B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE54283T1 (en)
DE (2) DE8414326U1 (en)

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0670186A2 (en) * 1990-12-04 1995-09-06 Yoshino Kogyosho Co., Ltd. Liquid spraying vessel
EP0693439A1 (en) * 1994-07-22 1996-01-24 Coster Tecnologie Speciali S.P.A. Spray cap for an aerosol container
EP0708031A2 (en) 1994-10-20 1996-04-24 Wella Aktiengesellschaft Provision of a device with an anti-slip handling or actuating surface
WO1998011001A1 (en) 1996-09-11 1998-03-19 Coster Tecnologie Speciali S.P.A. Spray cap for aerosol container
US8881944B2 (en) 2008-06-30 2014-11-11 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Overcap for and a method of actuating a volatile material dispenser
EP3889071A1 (en) * 2020-03-31 2021-10-06 Kao Germany GmbH Cap for an aerosol can

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2627157B1 (en) * 1988-02-12 1992-01-31 Debard Andre SAFETY DISPENSING CONTROL DEVICE FOR AEROSOL CAN OR THE LIKE
DE19960845A1 (en) 1999-12-16 2001-07-05 Coster Tecnologie Speciali Spa Cap with integral spray nozzle for aerosol can comprises sleeve which fits over top end of can and hinged or flexible disk which fits on to this to form cap and is depressed to release spray
DE102004059204A1 (en) * 2004-12-09 2006-06-14 Wella Ag Cap for an aerosol container or a spray container

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1467847A (en) * 1973-08-09 1977-03-23 Iltios Ag Cap provided with an integral valve actuating lever for use in aerosol containers
DE8106470U1 (en) * 1980-06-20 1981-06-25 Coster Tecnologie Speciali Spa Dispenser capsule for aerosol containers
GB2077860A (en) * 1980-06-10 1981-12-23 Somova Spa Delivery Button/Cap Assembly for an Aerosol Container

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1467847A (en) * 1973-08-09 1977-03-23 Iltios Ag Cap provided with an integral valve actuating lever for use in aerosol containers
GB2077860A (en) * 1980-06-10 1981-12-23 Somova Spa Delivery Button/Cap Assembly for an Aerosol Container
DE8106470U1 (en) * 1980-06-20 1981-06-25 Coster Tecnologie Speciali Spa Dispenser capsule for aerosol containers

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0670186A2 (en) * 1990-12-04 1995-09-06 Yoshino Kogyosho Co., Ltd. Liquid spraying vessel
EP0670186A3 (en) * 1990-12-04 1995-09-20 Yoshino Kogyosho Co., Ltd. Liquid spraying vessel
EP0693439A1 (en) * 1994-07-22 1996-01-24 Coster Tecnologie Speciali S.P.A. Spray cap for an aerosol container
EP0708031A2 (en) 1994-10-20 1996-04-24 Wella Aktiengesellschaft Provision of a device with an anti-slip handling or actuating surface
WO1998011001A1 (en) 1996-09-11 1998-03-19 Coster Tecnologie Speciali S.P.A. Spray cap for aerosol container
US8881944B2 (en) 2008-06-30 2014-11-11 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Overcap for and a method of actuating a volatile material dispenser
EP3889071A1 (en) * 2020-03-31 2021-10-06 Kao Germany GmbH Cap for an aerosol can

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE8414326U1 (en) 1984-06-28
EP0160816B1 (en) 1990-07-04
EP0160816A3 (en) 1988-02-03
DE3578519D1 (en) 1990-08-09
ATE54283T1 (en) 1990-07-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE60133073T2 (en) Dispensing unit for the simultaneous dispensing of two products
DE68905656T2 (en) INCLINED SPRAY AEROSOL DRIVE HEAD AND DIE.
DE4216915C2 (en) Pack for flowable contents
EP0284907B1 (en) Paste dispenser
DE3705467A1 (en) ACTUATING DEVICE FOR A VALVE FASTENED ON A PRESSURE TANK
EP0160816B1 (en) Distributor cap for an aerosol
DE2215605C3 (en) Distribution valve for aerosol containers
DE2650734A1 (en) CONTAINER FOR STORING AND DISPENSING A MIXTURE OF ONE LIQUID AND AT LEAST ONE OTHER PRODUCT
DE19636936A1 (en) Spray cap for aerosol containers
EP0243916A2 (en) Attachment for tubes, bottles or the like
EP0447634A2 (en) Dosing-dispensing device for fluids
DE69204779T2 (en) Push button for a pressure container for spraying a liquid and containers provided with such a push button.
EP0693439B1 (en) Spray cap for an aerosol container
EP0528265A1 (en) Roll-ball application
DE8400943U1 (en) Valve flap closure
EP0236890A1 (en) Device for making and dispensing mixed beverages from fruit syrup or concentrate and water
DE69100458T2 (en) Self-closing valve, especially for an aerosol container.
EP1481734B1 (en) Closure for a spray head
DE2831463A1 (en) Beverage tap cleansing device - incorporates head containing double:acting piston and hollow housing with displaceable, externally recessed cock
DE2648288A1 (en) SPRAYER
DE19650566A1 (en) Dispenser system
DE2633901A1 (en) Container for aerosol dispenser - has inwardly projecting pivoting lever acting against bottom of downwardly projecting dispenser
AT258189B (en) Lock for liquid container
DE2252494A1 (en) DEVICE FOR CLOSING, OPERATING AND SECURING THE VALVE OF A PRESSURE VESSEL
DE1775183C3 (en) Immersion tube for a spray can under gas pressure

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE FR GB IT LI NL

PUAL Search report despatched

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A3

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE FR GB IT LI NL

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19880129

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19890102

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE FR GB IT LI NL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Effective date: 19900704

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT;WARNING: LAPSES OF ITALIAN PATENTS WITH EFFECTIVE DATE BEFORE 2007 MAY HAVE OCCURRED AT ANY TIME BEFORE 2007. THE CORRECT EFFECTIVE DATE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THE ONE RECORDED.

Effective date: 19900704

Ref country code: BE

Effective date: 19900704

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 54283

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19900715

Kind code of ref document: T

ET Fr: translation filed
REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 3578519

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19900809

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)
NLV1 Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Effective date: 19910320

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Effective date: 19910331

Ref country code: CH

Effective date: 19910331

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20020225

Year of fee payment: 18

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20020318

Year of fee payment: 18

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20020528

Year of fee payment: 18

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030320

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031001

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20030320

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031127

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST