EP1344571A1 - Packaging for containing and delivering a product, in particular a fluid sample - Google Patents

Abstract

The assembly (1) comprises a container (2) having a body (3) with a closed base (4), and a mobile component (20) with a seal lip (25) which responds to manual pressure on a surface (21) by reducing the volume (80) between it and the base, causing the product to be sprayed through an outlet (7). The mobile component is returned to its initial position by a spring (6), allowing air to enter the container.

Description

The present invention relates to a packaging and distribution device under pressure, in particular in spray form, of a fluid product. More in particular, the invention preferably relates to a miniature sprayer, preferably disposable, suitable for packaging in the form of a sample of cosmetic products, in particular perfumes. The product is preferably liquid.

Distributors of this type are described in particular in patent applications FR-A-2 778 639, EP-A-0 761 314, FR-A-2 443 980, or in US-A-3 patents 897 005, or US-A-3 412 907. All these devices suffer mainly from minus a handicap, linked either to their manufacturing cost or their ease of use, or the quality of the spray they are capable of generating.

Indeed, since the samples are not generally intended for sale, their cost manufacturing should be as low as possible. It is therefore important to have devices whose parts can be easily produced in large series and whose mounting can be carried out in a simple manner. In addition, they must be in able to generate a spray whose quality is as good as possible, and whose characteristics are as constant as possible.

Furthermore, in particular for perfumes, it is known to present such samples in the form of a small volume container (typically 1.5 ml) comprising a cylindrical body, in particular made of glass, one end of which is closed by a bottom. The other end is open and receives a miniature pump, surmounted by an actuating member comprising an orifice for spraying perfume. Such a system is described in document FR-A-2 646 408.

The miniature pump, like any pump fitted to large containers more important, includes a pump body inside which moves a piston movable between a first position in which the pump body is maximum volume and a second position in which the body volume of pump is minimal. The pump body is in selective communication with the container via a dip tube and an inlet valve, in particular in the form a ball.

During the reduction phase of the pump body volume, the valve admission is closed. On the other hand, an outlet valve, located upstream of the orifice dispenser, is opened under product pressure. The product is distributed under pulverized form.

When the user releases the pressure exerted on the actuating member, the piston, under the effect of a spring, rises in the first position creating a vacuum inside the pump body. In this phase, called filling, the intake valve is open under the effect of the prevailing vacuum inside the pump body, and the outlet valve is closed. Likewise, during this phase, a volume of air corresponding to the volume of product transferred from the container to the pump body, enters the container through an orifice appropriate vent.

This miniature container system fitted with a pump also miniature, although satisfactory from the point of view of ease of use for the consumer, and from the point of view of the quality of the spray obtained, suffers from a major drawback linked to its cost and the complexity of handling and mounting the components of small dimensions which compose it.

Devices comprising a reservoir provided with a dispensing orifice and surmounted by a movable piston allows to pressurize a product contained in this tank so as to cause it to exit through the dispensing orifice are known from document US-A-5,709,320. But these devices implement complex and expensive pistons because they are fitted with non-return valves respectively.

It is therefore one of the objects of the invention to produce a set of packaging and distribution, particularly suitable for packaging and distribution under pressure of sample doses of a product, in particular cosmetic, and which resolves all or part of the drawbacks discussed above, in reference to conventional devices.

It is in particular an object of the invention to produce such an assembly which is economical to make and easy to use.

Other objects will appear in the detailed description which follows.

i) un récipient contenant le produit, le récipient étant délimité par un corps dont une extrémité est fermée par un fond ;

ii) un organe mobile relativement au corps du récipient et apte, en réponse à une commande exercée manuellement sur une surface d'un organe d'actionnement, à passer d'une première position dans laquelle le volume délimité entre l'organe mobile et le fond du récipient est maximal, à une seconde position dans laquelle ledit volume est minimal, de manière à pressuriser le produit contenu dans ledit volume et à en provoquer la sortie au travers d'au moins un orifice de distribution, le retour de l'organe mobile de la seconde position vers la première, lorsque cesse la commande d'actionnement, s'accompagnant d'une entrée d'air à l'intérieur dudit volume,

caractérisé en ce que l'entrée d'air à l'intérieur dudit volume se fait par au moins un passage formé entre l'organe mobile et une surface interne du récipient.According to the invention, these objects are achieved by producing an assembly for the packaging and distribution of a product, in particular a cosmetic, said assembly comprising

i) a container containing the product, the container being delimited by a body, one end of which is closed by a bottom;

ii) a movable member relative to the body of the container and able, in response to a command exerted manually on a surface of an actuating member, to pass from a first position in which the volume delimited between the movable member and the bottom of the container is maximum, at a second position in which said volume is minimum, so as to pressurize the product contained in said volume and to cause it to exit through at least one dispensing orifice, the return of the member movable from the second position to the first, when the actuation command ceases, accompanied by an air intake inside said volume,

characterized in that the entry of air inside said volume takes place through at least one passage formed between the movable member and an internal surface of the container.

Thus, and unlike conventional pump devices in which only the product contained inside the pump body is pressurized, according to the invention, to each actuation, the entire product contained in the container is pressurized.

The bottom of the container being closed, the volume of product dispensed during a given actuation is not replaced. Therefore, once the distribution primed, the volume of pressurized product in the container decreases with each new actuation.

In a conventional pump body, possibly after a phase of priming, and all while the volume of product contained in the container is greater than the volume of the pump body, during each suction phase, a volume of product similar to the volume of product that was distributed, enters the pump body. Therefore, on each actuation, substantially the same amount of product is pressurized inside the pump body.

The volume of product distributed is offset either by a decrease in volume of the container. To do this, it is possible to provide that the bottom is in an axial position not fixed, and goes up after each actuation, a non-return mechanism of the rack type preventing it from backing up when the movable member passes from the first position to second.

Advantageously, however, the volume of product dispensed is replaced by a corresponding volume of air, which enters said volume upon return of the organ from the second position to the first.

In conventional pump devices, the air intake is in the part of the container outside the pumping chamber.

Such an assembly can be produced with a minimum number of parts, which number, as we will see in more detail below, can go up to two. In conventional systems, the number of parts can be up to 10.

Therefore, with the assembly according to the invention, the mounting operations are reduced to their bare minimum. The cost price is extremely low.

The value of the minimum volume remaining between the piston and the fixed bottom, when the piston is in its lowest position, determines the number of sprays that it is possible to generate with the assembly according to the invention.

Preferably, the movable member comprises a lip capable of being applied so tight against an internal surface of the container during the passage of the member movable from the first position to the second, said internal surface being configured so that on at least part of the return movement of the movable member from the second position towards the first, said lip is not in contact waterproof with said internal surface. It was precisely during this period when the lip is not in tight contact with the internal surface of the container that is produces air entry inside the variable volume.

Advantageously, over at least part of its movement between said first and second positions, the lip is subjected to an elastic stress increasing towards the second position.

So when the user releases the pressure on the surface actuation, the piston, under the effect of a spring, rises axially in the opposite direction to the bottom of the container. Simultaneously with this movement of rise, the piston lip, as the radial elastic stress to which it is subjected, decreases, tends to deviate radially from the axis of so as to remain in engagement with the internal surface of the container. However, this radial movement, due to the inertia of the material forming the lip of the piston, and the slight depression that is created when the upward movement begins, is slower than the sudden ascent movement. As a result, air has the time to enter the variable volume before the lip does new seal against the internal surface of the container.

More specifically, the internal surface is of cross section circular, the lip being annular, the distance between a longitudinal axis of the assembly and said internal surface increasing, preferably gradually, in the direction of the return movement from the second position to the first. Thus, the radial movement to which reference has been made is permitted by the gradual increase in the distance between the free edge of the lip of the inner surface of the container.

i) le matériau formant l'organe mobile, et en particulier la lèvre. Le matériau est choisi de sorte que le mouvement radial du bord libre de la lèvre sous l'effet de son élasticité soit plus lent que le mouvement de remontée de l'organe mobile. Un matériau de type polyéthylène s'est révélé être satisfaisant ;

ii) la configuration de la lèvre, en particulier son épaisseur ou son inclinaison au repos. Cette configuration a en effet a un impact sur le double mouvement relatif auquel elle est soumise lors du passage de l'organe mobile de la seconde position à la première ;

iii) le profil de la surface interne du récipient, et en particulier, la variation de distance de la lèvre à la surface interne du récipient entre les première et seconde positions de l'organe mobile ; et

iv) l'élasticité du moyen rappelant l'organe mobile dans la seconde position. Son élasticité doit être suffisante pour provoquer une remontée rapide de l'organe mobile lorsque cesse la pression d'actionnement sur la surface d'actionnement.

To obtain the desired result, different parameters can be taken into account, and adjusted relative to each other. Among these parameters are:

i) the material forming the movable member, and in particular the lip. The material is chosen so that the radial movement of the free edge of the lip under the effect of its elasticity is slower than the upward movement of the movable member. A polyethylene type material has been found to be satisfactory;

ii) the configuration of the lip, in particular its thickness or its inclination at rest. This configuration has indeed an impact on the double relative movement to which it is subjected when the movable member passes from the second position to the first;

iii) the profile of the internal surface of the container, and in particular, the variation in distance from the lip to the internal surface of the container between the first and second positions of the movable member; and

iv) the elasticity of the means recalling the movable member in the second position. Its elasticity must be sufficient to cause a rapid rise of the movable member when the actuation pressure on the actuation surface ceases.

The movable member can be obtained by molding with the actuating member.

The elastic return means can be obtained by molding with the member actuation, with the container body, or with both.

The fact that the spring is separated from the container body makes it possible to achieve the assembly using a first material for the spring, having the properties elastic required, and a second material for the body, compatible with the decor or inscriptions that we may wish to see on the body of the container. Thus, one can use a polyoxymethylene (POM) for the spring, and a polypropylene for the container body.

Alternatively, the elastic return means can be obtained by molding with an intermediate piece on which is mounted the actuating member.

In the latter case, it is possible to provide the spring on the end of the intermediate piece located near the bottom of the container. In this hypothesis, one end of the spring can be in abutment against the bottom of the container.

Preferably, the elastic return means, as well as any element obtained from molding with the latter, is carried out in POM.

As for the movable member and the container body are not obtained from molding with the elastic return means, they can be produced in at least one polyolefin, in particular a polyethylene or a polypropylene.

According to another variant, the elastic return means can consist of a added spring, especially made of plastic or metal.

The distribution port is in selective communication, via a system opening / closing, with at least one access passage in communication with the product inside the container. In practice, communication between the dispensing orifice and the inlet passage is established at least when the movable member is in the second position.

The intake passage can be delimited between an element secured to the body of the container, in particular obtained by molding with the latter, and an integral element of the movable member, in particular obtained by molding with the latter.

Alternatively, the intake passage can be delimited essentially by the mobile organ.

Alternatively again, the supply passage is delimited between an element integral with the container body, in particular obtained by molding with the latter, and said intermediate piece.

The opening / closing system can be formed by the cooperation of an element integral with the container body, in particular obtained by molding with the latter, and of an element secured to the movable member, in particular obtained by molding with this latest.

Alternatively, the opening / closing system can be formed by the cooperation of the movable member and an integral portion of the member actuating.

Alternatively again, the opening / closing system is formed by the cooperation of a portion of an intermediate piece and an integral portion of the actuator.

Advantageously, said surface of the actuating member is movable according to a stroke greater than the stroke of the rest of the actuating member, the communication between the intake passage and the distribution orifice being established in response to movement of the surface of the actuator when the rest of the latter is stationary axially. For this purpose, the actuation surface can be rounded and bordered annually with a smaller portion thickness, so as to allow an inversion of the surface profile actuation when the rest of the actuator is immobilized axially.

The second position of the movable member can be determined by setting engagement of a lower end of the movable member with the bottom of the container, or with any other stop encountered by the movable member or by any another element to which the movable member is coupled.

In the event that the second position is determined by the abutment of a annular edge of the movable member with the bottom of the container, it may be advantageous to provide that said annular edge is crenellated, or that the bottom of the container has reliefs capable of maintaining communication between the inlet passage and the rest of the container.

The bottom of the container may be an added bottom, the fixing of the bottom to the body of the container which can be obtained in particular by snap-fastening, screwing, gluing or welding. In this case, the plug can be obtained by molding with the container body, the cap being molded in the open position and connected to the body by a strip of material.

Advantageously, the dispensing orifice is supplied by a plurality of channels vortex effect. The canals can be dug either in the part of the body crossed by the dispensing orifice, or in any other part arranged in view of the dispensing orifice (movable member, intermediate piece).

The elastic return means can be configured in the form of a stack at least three rings connected two by two via two diametrically spacers opposite, the spacers separating a first ring from a second ring adjacent to the first being offset at 90 ° with respect to the spacers separating the second ring of a third ring adjacent to the second and arranged opposite from the first. This arrangement greatly facilitates the molding of the part forming the spring.

• les figures 1, 2, 3A-3C sont relatives à un premier mode de réalisation de l'ensemble de conditionnement et de distribution selon l'invention ;
• les figures 4A-4B illustrent une variante du ressort décrit en référence au premier mode de réalisation ;
• les figures 5 et 6A-6D sont relatives à un second mode de réalisation de l'ensemble de conditionnement et de distribution selon l'invention ;
• les figures 7 et 8A-8D sont relatives à un troisième mode de réalisation de l'ensemble de conditionnement et de distribution selon l'invention ;
• les figures 9 et 10A-10D sont relatives à un quatrième mode de réalisation de l'ensemble de conditionnement et de distribution selon l'invention ; et
• les figures 11 et 12A-12D sont relatives à un cinquième mode de réalisation de l'ensemble de conditionnement et de distribution selon l'invention.

The invention consists, apart from the arrangements set out above, of a certain number of other arrangements which will be explained below, with reference to nonlimiting exemplary embodiments, described with reference to the appended figures, among which:

• Figures 1, 2, 3A-3C relate to a first embodiment of the packaging and distribution assembly according to the invention;
• FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate a variant of the spring described with reference to the first embodiment;
• Figures 5 and 6A-6D relate to a second embodiment of the packaging and distribution assembly according to the invention;
• Figures 7 and 8A-8D relate to a third embodiment of the packaging and distribution assembly according to the invention;
• Figures 9 and 10A-10D relate to a fourth embodiment of the packaging and distribution assembly according to the invention; and
• Figures 11 and 12A-12D relate to a fifth embodiment of the packaging and distribution assembly according to the invention.

As shown in the overview of Figure 1, the device 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises an elongated container 2 of cylindrical shape. The container comprises a body 3, one end of which is closed by a bottom 4. The other end 5 is open. Near its end open 5, the body 3 of the container has a spring portion 6, obtained molding with the body 3 of the container. Above spring 6, the body wall 3 is crossed by a dispensing orifice 7 opening at the bottom of a recess 8.

As can be seen more clearly from FIGS. 2 and 3A-3C, an element 10 extends axially from the bottom 4 of the container, to a level slightly above the highest portion of the spring 6.

The axial element 10 has a first diameter over approximately three-quarters of its height starting from the bottom 4 and a second diameter, smaller than the first, on the quarter higher than its height. The lower part 11 of the reduced diameter portion includes a plurality of ribs intended, as will be seen in more detail thereafter to allow the selective communication of the orifice of distribution 7 and a supply channel 27 which will also be discussed in more detail thereafter.

On substantially the entire upper half of the part of the body 3 located in below the spring 6, the cross section of the internal surface 12 of the container gradually increases, due to a gradual reduction in the thickness of the wall of the body 3 on the half in question. The difference in thickness between the thickest part of the wall, and the thinnest part, adjacent to the spring 6, is of the order of 1 to 2 mm.

Inside the body 3, via its open end 5, an element 20 is introduced, subsequently qualified as a movable member, and of height slightly less than the height of the body 3 of the container 2. The element 20 has a transverse wall 21 whose outer diameter is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the edge free formed by the end 5 of the body 3, so as to come to bear on said edge free. The end portion 5 of the body 3 and in which the orifice of the distribution 7, in combination with the surface 21 of the movable member 20 constitutes what we will then call an actuator, and which we will designate generally by reference 90.

A side skirt 22 is connected in the vicinity of the periphery of the wall transverse 21. On a part 23 of its height corresponding substantially to the height of the part of the body 3 located above the spring 6, the side skirt 22 has an external diameter slightly smaller than the internal diameter of the body 3 of so as to fit tightly inside the body 3.

Part 23 is extended by a portion of smaller diameter 24 ending by an annular lip 25 turned downwards, widening slightly towards the exterior so as to be in sealed engagement with the internal surface 12 of the body 3. In the rest position illustrated in FIG. 3A, the annular lip 25 is just below the lower end of the spring 6 and delimits above the bottom 4 a volume 80 which, in this position, is maximum.

An axial skirt 26 also connects to the transverse wall 21. The skirt axial 26 has an internal diameter slightly greater than the external diameter of the portion of larger diameter of the axial element 10 so as to engage around of the latter leaving an annular passage 27.

In the rest position shown in FIG. 3A, a crenellated edge 28 of the axial skirt 26 is located at a distance from the bottom 4 at least equal to the stroke desired actuation, while being as close as possible to said bottom of so as to be immersed in the product for as long as possible.

In the vicinity of its upper end, the internal surface of the axial skirt 26 comprises an annular lip 29 turned downwards and inclined in the direction of the X axis of the assembly.

In the rest position of the assembly illustrated in FIG. 3A, the lip 29 is in sealed engagement against the part of the axial element 10 located above the ribbed portion 11.

On the side opposite the dispensing orifice 7, a radial passage 30 passes through the wall of the axial skirt 26 and opens into a recess 31 formed on the external surface of the part 23 of the side skirt 22. In the mounted position of the assembly, the recess 31 is centered on the dispensing orifice 7 and defines with the internal surface of the body 3, a plurality of vortex channels 32 in communication with the spray orifice 7 and with the radial passage 30.

Although not shown in the drawing, a snap can be provided between the movable member 20 and the body 3 of the container so as to improve the attachment from one to the other.

According to this embodiment, the container 2 as well as the spring with which it is obtained from molding is in POM. The movable member 20 is made of polyethylene or polypropylene.

In use, the consumer exerts an axial pressure on the surface 21 of the actuating member 90 (FIG. 3B). In response to this axial pressure, the spring 6 compresses, and the movable member 20 descends with the annular lip 25 in sealed engagement with the internal surface 12 of the body 3.

In doing so, the volume 80, defined between the bottom 4 and the movable member 20, decreases and the product contained therein is pressurized, and rises in the annular passage 27. The driving-in movement continues until the spring 6 is fully compressed or until the castellated edge 28 of the axial skirt 26 is in abutment against the bottom 4 of container 2. In this position, the volume 80 is minimal.

In this position, the annular lip 29 faces the ribbed portion 11 of the axial element 10. The product contained in the annular passage 27 passes between the ribs of the portion 11, rushes into the radial passage 30, in the vortex channels 32, and is sprayed via the dispensing orifice 7.

When the consumer releases the pressure exerted on the surface 21 (FIG. 3C), the movable member 20, under the action of the spring 6 rises axially. In doing so, the annular lip 29 ceases to be opposite the ribbed portion 11 and returns in sealed engagement with the portion located above the ribbed zone 11.

The gradually decreasing thickness of the wall of the body 3 of the container 2, coupled to the inertia of the material forming the annular lip 25 of the movable member, to the sudden thrust generated by the spring 6, and the slight depression which can occur create inside the container when the upward movement of the movable member 20, promotes the maintenance of a slight spacing between the free edge the annular lip 25 of the movable member 20 and the internal surface 12 of the body 3, and this during at least part of the movement of the movable member back up 20. Air can then rush into the container 2, so as to restore a balance of pressures.

When the movable member 20 reaches its high position (FIG. 3A), the free edge of the annular lip 25 is again in sealed engagement with the internal surface 12 of the container body. The volume 80 is again maximum. The set is ready for a new actuation.

On the next actuation, everything goes the same way, except that the volume pressurized by the movable member is reduced by the volume of product which has was distributed during the previous actuation, this having been replaced by a corresponding air volume.

In the embodiment which has just been described, the elastic return means 6 is configured as a coil spring. In the variant of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the spring 6 is configured in the form of a stack of several rings 61, 62, 63, 64, 65. Two consecutive rings 61, 62 are kept at a distance from each other by two diametrically opposed spacers 66, 67, while the rings 62 and 63 are kept apart from one another by two spacers 58, 69, offset by 90 ° relative to spacers 66, 67, and so continued on the entire stack.

In compression, and as shown in FIG. 4B, the rings 61-65 of the stack gets closer two by two to each other, with a maximum approximation, or even a contact, in places located 90 ° from to the spacers.

Due to the 90 ° offset of the spacers of a pair of rings with the spacers of the pair (s) of rings which are adjacent to it, the stack compresses uniformly.

The spring according to the configuration which has just been described with reference to the figures 4A and 4B can also be used for all the embodiments of all of which will be described later.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6A-6D, the assembly 101 comprises a container 102 comprising a cylindrical body 103 made of POM, one end of which is open and able to be sealed in a leaktight manner by a bottom 104, capable of also be obtained from molding with the container 102. The fixing of the bottom 104 on the body 103 can be obtained by clamping, snap-fastening, welding or gluing.

Near its end opposite the bottom 104, the body 103 of the container has a spring portion 106, obtained by molding with the body 103 of the container. Above the spring 106, the wall of the body 103 is crossed by a distribution orifice 107 opening at the bottom of a recess 108. The end upper 105 of body 103 is closed by a curved transverse wall 121, obtained from molding with the rest of the body. In the vicinity of its periphery, the surface 121 has a thinner annular zone 146 which, as we will see it in more detail below, allows to favor the profile inversion of the curved wall 121. The part of the body 103 located above the spring 106, and closed by the curved wall 121 constitutes the actuating member 190.

As it appears in Figures 6A-6D, and in the same way as for the mode of previous embodiment, below the spring 106, and substantially on 1/3 of the height of the body 103 located under the spring, the wall of the body is thick gradually increasing towards the bottom 104. Thus, on this portion of the body 103, the distance to the X axis from the internal surface 112 of the body 103 increases gradually in the opposite direction to the bottom 104.

The assembly according to this embodiment also includes a movable member 120 made of polyethylene, comprising a side skirt 122 whose external diameter, at least in its upper part 123, is slightly less than the diameter internal of the body 103 so that it can be tightly mounted thereon, or attached by any other means, in particular of the snap type.

The part 123 is extended by a portion of smaller diameter 124 ending by an annular lip 125 turned downwards, widening slightly towards the exterior so as to be in sealed engagement with the internal surface 112 of the body 103. In the rest position illustrated in FIG. 6A, the annular lip 125 is just below the lower end of the spring 6. The volume 180 that it delimits above the bottom 104 is maximum.

The side skirt 122 is connected in its upper part to a collar annular 140 connecting itself to an axial skirt 141 defining a axial passage 127. In the rest position illustrated in FIG. 6A, the flange annular 140 is spaced from the internal surface of the curved end wall 121.

On the side of the distribution orifice 107, the upper surface of the wall transverse 140 has a groove 147 which, as will be seen in more detail subsequently allows communication between the supply channel 127 to be maintained and the dispensing orifice 107 when the curved wall 121 is in such a profile as shown in Figure 6C.

On the side opposite the dispensing orifice 107, the external surface of the part 123 of the side skirt 122 has a recess 131. In position assembly assembled, the recess 131 is centered on the dispensing orifice 107 and defines with the internal surface of the body 103, a plurality of channels vortex 132 in communication with the spray orifice 107 and with the space formed between the curved wall 121 and the transverse collar 140.

The axial skirt 141 delimits an internal channel having, in the vicinity of its upper end 142, a first interior section. Portion 142 is extends by a portion 143 having a second interior section, greater than the first one. The portion 143 is extended by a portion 144 of internal section lower than the first and second sections. The portion 144 represents a major portion of the total height of the skirt 141, and extends to a free end 128 located near the bottom of the container.

In the rest position shown in FIG. 6A, the crenellated edge 128 of the axial skirt 141 is located at a distance from the bottom 104 at least equal to the stroke desired actuation, while being as close as possible to said bottom of so as to be immersed in the product for as long as possible.

The wall 121 is connected to a stud 145 whose external surface includes a annular bead 129 which, in the rest position of FIG. 6A is in sealed engagement with the internal surface of the portion 142.

In use, the consumer exerts an axial pressure on the surface 121 of the actuating member 190 (FIG. 6B). In response to this axial pressure, the spring 106 compresses, and the movable member 120 descends with the annular lip 125 in sealed engagement with the internal surface 112 of the body 103.

In doing so, the volume 180, defined between the bottom 104 and the movable member 120, decreases and the product contained therein is pressurized, and rises in the axial passage 127. The driving-in movement continues until the compression of the spring 106 and / or until the notched edge 128 of the axial skirt 141 is in abutment against the bottom 104 of the container 102. In this position, the volume 180 is minimal, and the lateral part of the actuating member 190 is in axial abutment. The movable member 120 is immobilized axially inside the container 102.

By continuing to exert pressure on the wall 121, the profile of the latter reverses as shown in Figure 6C and the annular bead 129 ceases to be in sealed engagement against the part 142 of the axial skirt 141.

The product contained in the inlet channel 127 then rises towards the transverse wall 121, passes through the groove 147 of the annular collar 140, rushes into the vortex channels 132, and is sprayed via the orifice of distribution 107.

When the consumer releases the pressure exerted on the surface 121 of the actuating member 190 (FIG. 6D), the wall 121 regains its convex profile Figures 6A and 6B. The annular bead 129 returns in sealed engagement against the portion 142 of the axial skirt 141. The communication between the orifice exit 107 and the supply channel 127 is interrupted.

The movable member 120, as well as the actuating member 190 to which it is coupled, under the action of spring 106, rise axially.

The gradually decreasing thickness of the wall of the body 103 of the container 102, coupled to the inertia of the material forming the annular lip 125 of the organ mobile, to the sudden thrust generated by the spring 106, and to the slight depression which can be created inside the container when the movement of raising of the movable member 120, promotes the maintenance of a slight gap between the free edge of the annular lip 125 of the movable member 120 and the internal surface 112 of the body 103, and this during at least part of the upward movement of the movable member 120. Air can then rush into the interior of the container 102, so as to restore a balance of pressures.

When the movable member 120 reaches its high position (FIG. 6A), the free edge of the annular lip 125 is again in sealed engagement with the internal surface 112 from the container body. The volume 180 is again maximum. The set is ready for a new actuation.

On the next actuation, everything goes the same way, except that the volume pressurized by the movable member 120 is reduced by the volume of product which was distributed during the previous actuation, this having been replaced by a corresponding air volume.

In the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8A-8D, the body 203 of the container 202 comprises a first cylindrical portion 250 adjacent to the bottom 204, and a second cylindrical portion 251, of internal section larger than the portion 250, and separated from the latter by a shoulder 252. The second portion cylindrical 251 ends with a free edge 253 delimiting an opening. The container 202 is made of polypropylene.

As it appears in Figures 8A-8D, and in the same way as for the mode of previous embodiment, below the shoulder 252, and substantially on 1/3 the height of the portion 250 of the body 203, the wall of the body is thick gradually increasing towards the bottom 204. Thus, on this portion of the body 203, the distance to the X axis from the internal surface 212 of body 203 increases gradually in the opposite direction to the bottom 204.

Inside the container 202, an axial element 210 projects relative to the bottom and extends substantially to the free edge 253.

The assembly 201 also includes an actuator 290 configured in the form of a cylindrical POM element, one end of which is closed by an end wall 221. In the vicinity of its periphery, the wall 221 comprises a thinner annular zone 246 which, as for the mode of previous embodiment, promotes the reversal of the curved wall 221 when the side wall of the actuator 290 is immobilized axially.

The cylindrical element, near its end closed by the wall 221, is crossed by a distribution orifice 207 opening at the bottom of a recess 208.

Inside the actuating member 290, an axial skirt 245 projects from the transverse wall 221, and ends in a portion 229 which widens slightly outwards.

On the side opposite wall 221, the cylindrical element is extended by a portion helical forming a spring 206. On the side of the spring 206 opposite the member actuation, the spring is connected to an annular portion 254 of external section slightly less than the internal section of the portion 251 of the container 202 of so as to force fit there, the lower edge of the annular portion 254 being in abutment against the shoulder 252 (FIG. 8A).

The assembly according to this embodiment also includes a movable member 220 comprising a tubular element 222 having a first portion 223 extending over a height slightly less than the axial height of the skirt axial 245 of the actuating member 290, then extending by a portion 224 of internal section slightly greater than the internal section of the portion 223, and slightly greater than the external section of the axial element 210.

The external section of the tubular element 222 is, on the lower half of the tubular element 222, substantially less than its section over its half higher so as to define a sufficiently large volume there to contain the product to be packaged.

Thus, to assemble the assembly in the manner shown in FIG. 8A, after introduction of the product into the body of the container 202 via the open end 253, the movable member 220, optionally equipped with the actuating member 290, is introduced into the container 202, the axial element 210 being introduced inside the skirt 222 of the movable member 220, leaving an annular channel 227 all around the axial element 210. The insertion movement continues until the part 254 disposed under the spring 206 is in abutment against the shoulder 252.

The coupling between the actuating member 290 and the movable member 220 can be do by clamping, snapping, gluing, or welding.

In this mounted position of FIG. 8A, a crenellated edge 228 of the axial skirt 222 is located at a distance from the bottom 204 at least equal to the stroke desired actuation, while being as close as possible to said bottom of so as to be immersed in the product for as long as possible.

In the rest position illustrated in FIG. 8A, an annular zone of the portion flared 229 of the axial skirt 245 is sealingly pressed against a lower edge of the portion 223 of smaller internal section. Above the sealing area, a annular channel exists between the outer surface of the axial skirt 245 and the internal surface of the portion 223 of the movable member 220. This annular channel opens onto a space formed between the internal surface of the wall 221 and the edge upper part of the movable member 220.

On the side of the dispensing orifice 207, the upper edge of the movable member 220 has a groove 247 which, as will be seen in more detail below, allows maintain communication between the supply channel 227 and the orifice of distribution 207 when the curved wall 221 is along a profile as shown in Figure 8C.

On the side opposite the dispensing orifice 207, the external surface of the part 223 of the movable member 220 has a recess 231. In position assembly assembled, the recess 231 is centered on the dispensing orifice 207 and defines with the internal surface of the actuating member 290, a plurality of vortex channels 232 in communication with the spray orifice 207 and with the space formed between the curved wall 221 and the upper edge of the movable member 220.

The movable member 220, substantially half of its height comprises a lip ring 225, turned downwards, slightly flaring outwards. In rest position illustrated in FIG. 8A, a portion 226 of the movable member 220, located just above the lip 225, applies tightly against the internal surface of the portion 254 formed under the spring 206. During the movement lowering of the movable member 220, at least when the portion 226 of the latter ceases to be in watertight engagement with the portion 254 located below the spring 206, the lip 225 is in sealed engagement against the surface 212 of the body 203.

In the rest position of FIG. 8A, the volume 280 delimited between the member mobile 220 and the bottom 204 of the container is maximum.

In use, the consumer exerts an axial pressure on the surface 221 of the actuating member 290 (FIG. 8B). In response to this axial pressure, the spring 206 compresses, and the movable member 220 descends with the annular lip 225 in sealed engagement with the internal surface 212 of the body 203.

In doing so, the volume 280, defined between the bottom 204 and the movable member 220, decreases and the product contained therein is pressurized, and goes up in the passage annular 227.

The push-in movement continues until the spring is fully compressed 206 and / or until the notched edge 228 of the axial skirt 222 of the member mobile is in abutment against the bottom 204 of the container 202 (FIG. 8C). In this position, the volume 280 is minimal, and the lateral part of the actuating member 290 is in axial abutment. The movable member 220 is immobilized axially at inside the container 202. While continuing to exert pressure on the wall 221, the profile thereof is reversed and the annular zone of the flared part 229 of the skirt axial 245 ceases to be in sealed engagement against the lower edge of the portion 223 of the movable member 220.

The product contained in the supply channel 227 then rises towards the transverse wall 221, passes through the groove 247, rushes into the channels vortex 232, and is sprayed via the dispensing orifice 207.

When the consumer releases the pressure exerted on the surface 221 of the actuating member 290 (FIG. 8D), the wall 221 regains its convex profile Figures 8A and 8B. The annular zone of the flared part 229 of the axial skirt 245 returns in sealed engagement against the lower edge of the portion 223 of the movable member 220. The communication between the outlet orifice 207 and the channel 227 is interrupted.

The movable member 220, as well as the actuating member 290 to which it is coupled, under the action of spring 206, rise axially.

The gradually decreasing thickness of the wall of the body 203 of the container 202, coupled to the inertia of the material forming the annular lip 225 of the organ mobile, to the sudden thrust generated by the spring 206, and to the slight depression which can be created inside the container when the movement of raising of the movable member 220, promotes the maintenance of a slight gap between the free edge of the annular lip 225 of the movable member 220 and the internal surface 212 of body 203, during at least part of the upward movement of the movable member 220. Air can then rush into the container 202, so as to restore a balance of pressures.

When the movable member 220 reaches its high position (FIG. 8A), the portion 226 of the movable member 220, located just above the lip 225, is again tightly applied against the internal surface of the portion 254 formed under the spring 206. The volume 280 is again maximum. The set is ready for a new actuation.

On the next actuation, everything goes the same way, except that the volume pressurized by the movable member 220 is reduced by the volume of product which was distributed during the previous actuation, this having been replaced by a corresponding air volume.

The embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10A-10D constitutes a variant of the mode from previous realization. For reasons of clarity of the presentation, will only be described in detail that the elements that differ from the embodiment previous. Elements identical to those of the previous embodiment bear a numerical reference identical to that assigned to them in the previous embodiment, incremented by 100.

According to this embodiment, the member 320 movable relative to the body 303 of the container is obtained from polyethylene molding with the actuating member 390. Thus, the lip 325 which, during the passage of the movable member from the first to the second position, is sealingly pressed against the inclined surface 312, is formed by the open end of the actuator, opposite the surface actuation 321.

The actuator 390 is mounted clamping or snap-fastening on a workpiece intermediate POM 360 whose lower end ends in a portion forming a spring 306, bearing against the bottom of the container.

The body 303 of the container 302 is made of polypropylene.

It is in an external surface of the intermediate piece 360 that the recess 331 and the vortex channels 332.

The closure of the device upstream of the outlet orifice is ensured by the cooperation of an annular bead 329 formed by a portion 345 integral with the actuating member 390, and which, in the rest position of the assembly is located in tight support against a tubular portion 323 of small internal section of the intermediate piece 360. In response to an actuation command on the surface 321, the annular bead 329 descends opposite an additional portion large section 324 of the intermediate part 360, so as to allow the passage of product around the bead 329.

In the rest position, illustrated in FIG. 10A, an annular portion 326 located at the above the lip 325 is applied tightly against a bead annular 354 formed by the internal surface of the body 303 in the vicinity of its open end.

In use, the consumer exerts an axial pressure on the surface 321 of the actuator 390 (Figure 10B). In response to this axial pressure, the spring 306 compresses, and the actuator 390 descends with the lip annular 325 in sealed engagement with the internal surface 312 of the body 303.

In doing so, the volume 380, defined between the bottom 304 and the movable member 320, decreases and the product contained therein is pressurized, and goes up in the passage annular 327.

The push-in movement continues until the spring is fully compressed 306 against the bottom 304 of the container 302, without however the turns which cannot be completely contiguous, so as to maintain a communication between channel 327 and the portion of the container, outside the room intermediate 360. In this position, the volume 380 is minimal. The part side of the actuator 390 and the intermediate part 360 are axially immobilized inside the container 302.

By continuing to exert pressure on the wall 321, the profile of the latter reverses as shown in Figure 10C and the annular bead 329 ceases to be in watertight engagement against the portion 323 of small section of the part intermediate 360.

The product contained in the supply channel 327 then rises towards the transverse wall 321, rushes into the vortex canals 332, and is sprayed via dispensing orifice 307.

When the consumer releases the pressure exerted on the surface 321 of the actuating member 390 (FIG. 10D), the wall 321 regains its convex profile Figures 10A and 10B. The annular bead 329 returns to engagement tight against the portion 323 of smaller section of the intermediate piece 360. Communication between outlet 307 and supply channel 327 is interrupted.

The movable member 320, as well as the actuating member 390 with which it forms a single piece, under the action of the spring 306, go up axially.

The gradually decreasing thickness of the wall of the container body 303 302, coupled to the inertia of the material forming the annular lip 325 of the organ mobile, to the sudden thrust generated by the spring 306, and to the slight depression which can be created inside the container when the movement of raising of the movable member 320, promotes the maintenance of a slight gap between the free edge of the annular lip 325 of the movable member 320 and the internal surface 312 of body 303, during at least part of the upward movement of the movable member 320. Air can then rush into the container 302, so as to restore a balance of pressures.

When the movable member 320 reaches its high position (FIG. 10A), the portion 326 located just above the lip 325, is applied again so waterproof against the bead 354 formed on the inner surface of the body 303. The volume 380 is again maximum. The 301 set is ready for a new actuation.

On the next actuation, everything goes the same way, except that the volume pressurized by the movable member 320 is reduced by the volume of product which was distributed during the previous actuation, this having been replaced by a corresponding air volume.

The embodiment of FIGS. 11 and 12A-12D constitutes another variant of the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8A-8D. For reasons of clarity of the description, will be described in detail only the elements which differ from the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8A-8D. Elements identical to those of embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8A-8D bear a numerical reference identical to that assigned to them in this embodiment, incremented of 200.

According to this embodiment, the spring 406, made of metal or plastic, consists of an attached element disposed between the axial skirt 445 of the actuating member 490, and the axial portion 410 of the body 403 of the container 402.

The movable member 420 is made of polyethylene. The body 403 of the container 402 as well as the actuator 490 are made of polypropylene.

According to this embodiment also, the actuating member 490 is movable axially relative to the movable member 420 over a necessary stroke and sufficient to align the spray port 407 and the recess 431 in which the vortex channels 432 are formed.

After aligning the spray orifice and the recess 431, a free edge 460 of the actuating member 490 abuts against a shoulder 461 of the movable member 420, so as to drive the latter into bottom direction 404.

In the rest position, illustrated in FIG. 12A, an annular portion 426 located at the above the lip 425 is applied tightly against a bead annular 454 formed by the internal surface of the body 403 in the vicinity of its open end.

In the same way as for the previous embodiment, closing the device upstream of the outlet port 407 is ensured by the cooperation of a annular bead 429 formed by a portion 445 secured to the member actuator 490 and a tubular portion 423 of small internal section of the movable member 420, in leaktight support against which the bead 429 is located, in rest position of the assembly (FIG. 12A). In response to an order actuation on the surface 421 (FIG. 12C), the annular bead 429 descends opposite a portion of larger section 424 of the movable member 420, so as to allow the passage of product around the bead 429.

In use, the consumer exerts an axial pressure on the surface 421 of the actuating member 490 (FIG. 12B). In response to this axial pressure, the spring 406 compresses, and actuator 490 descends over a short stroke during which the spray orifice 407 comes into alignment with the center of recess 431 in which the vortex channels are formed 432.

Doing so also, the annular bead 429 ceases to be engaged tight against the portion 423 of small internal section of the movable member 420.

The movement of the actuator alone continues until the edge lower 460 of the actuating member is in abutment against the shoulder 461 of the movable member 420.

After this stage, (FIG. 12C), the movable member 420 descends towards the bottom 404, with the annular lip 425 in sealed engagement with the internal surface Body 412 403.

The volume 480, defined between the bottom 404 and the movable member 420, decreases and the product contained therein is pressurized, and rises in the annular passage 427. The product contained in the inlet channel 427 then rises towards the transverse wall 421, rushes into the vortex channels 432, and is sprayed via dispensing orifice 407.

The push-in movement continues until the spring is fully compressed 406 or until a crenellated edge 428 of the movable member 420 comes into abutment against the bottom 404 of the container 402.

When the consumer releases the pressure exerted on the surface 421 of the actuator 490 (FIG. 12D), the actuator 490 goes back of a low height, independently of the movable member 420. In doing so, the spray orifice 407 is no longer centered on the recess 431 in which are formed the vortex channels 432 and the annular bead 429 returns in sealed engagement against the portion 423 of smaller internal section of the movable member 420. The spraying is interrupted.

Then, by an adequate stop system, the actuator 490 drives the movable member 420 in the direction opposite to the bottom.

The gradually decreasing thickness of the wall of the body 403 of the container 402, coupled to the inertia of the material forming the annular lip 425 of the organ mobile, to the sudden thrust generated by the spring 406, and to the slight depression which can be created inside the container when the movement of raising of the movable member 420, promotes the maintenance of a slight gap between the free edge of the annular lip 425 of the movable member 420 and the internal surface 412 of the body 403, and this during at least part of the upward movement of the movable member 420. Air can then rush into the container 402, so as to restore a balance of pressures.

When the movable member 420 reaches its high position (FIG. 12A), the portion 426 of the movable member 420, located just above the lip 425, is again applied tightly against the bead 454 formed by the internal surface of the body 403 of the container 402. The volume 480 is again maximum. All 401 is ready for a new actuation.

On the next actuation, everything goes the same way, except that the volume pressurized by the movable member 420 is reduced by the volume of product which was distributed during the previous actuation, this having been replaced by a corresponding air volume.

Although not clearly shown in the drawing, for all modes of embodiment described above, when the movable member 25, 125, 225, 325 returns, 425, in the high position, the liquid remains retained, in particular by capillary action at inside the intake channel 27, 127, 227, 327, 427, so that when the next actuation, the spraying of the product is almost concomitant with the depression of the actuating surface 21, 121, 221, 321, 421.

In the foregoing detailed description, reference has been made to modes of preferred embodiments of the invention. Obviously there may be variations made without departing from the spirit of the invention as claimed below.

Claims (24)

Set (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) for the packaging and distribution of a product, in particular a cosmetic, said set comprising i) a container (2, 102, 202, 302, 402) containing the product, the container being delimited by a body (3, 103, 203, 303, 403), one end of which is closed by a bottom (4, 104, 204, 304, 404); ii) a movable member (20, 120, 220, 320, 420) relative to the body of the container and suitable, in response to a command exerted manually on a surface (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) of a member d actuation (90, 190, 290, 390, 490), to pass from a first position in which the volume (80, 180, 280, 380, 480) defined between the movable member and the bottom of the container is maximum, at a second position in which said volume is minimal, so as to pressurize the product contained in said volume and to cause it to exit through at least one dispensing orifice (7, 107, 207, 307, 407), the return of the movable member from the second position to the first, when the actuation command ceases, accompanied by an air intake inside said volume, characterized in that the air inlet inside said volume is through at least one passage formed between the movable member and an internal surface (12, 112, 212, 312, 412) of the container. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 1 characterized in that the movable member comprises a lip (25, 125, 225, 325, 425) capable of being applied sealingly against the internal surface of the container during the passage of the movable member from the first position to the second, said internal surface being configured so that, on at least part of the return movement of the movable member from the second position to the first, said lip is not in leaktight contact with said internal surface. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 2 characterized in that on at least part of its movement between said first and second positions, the lip (25, 125, 225, 325, 425) is subjected to an elastic stress increasing towards the second position. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 3 characterized in that the internal surface (12, 112, 212, 312, 412) is of circular cross section, the lip being annular, the distance between an axis longitudinal X of the assembly and said internal surface increasing, preferably gradually, in the direction of the return movement from the second position to the first. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the return of the movable member (20, 120, 220, 320, 420) from the second position to the first results from the action of an elastic return means (6, 106, 206, 306, 406). Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 5 characterized in that the elastic return means (6, 106, 206, 306, 406) is obtained by molding either with the body of the container, or with the actuator, either with both. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 6 characterized in that the movable member (20, 120, 220, 320, 420) is obtained by molding with the actuating member. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 5 characterized in that the elastic return means (6, 106, 206, 306, 406) is obtained by molding with an intermediate piece (360) on which is mounted the actuator. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 8 characterized in that one end of the elastic return means is in abutment against the bottom of the container. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of claims 5 to 9 characterized in that the elastic return means, as well as any element obtained from molding with the latter, is made of POM. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of claims 5 to 10 characterized in that the movable member and the body of the container, when they are not obtained from molding with the return means elastic, are made of at least one polyolefin, in particular a polyethylene or a polypropylene. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 5 characterized in that the elastic return means consists of an attached spring (406), in particular of plastic or metal. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispensing orifice is in selective communication, via an opening / closing system (29, 129, 229, 329, 429), with at least one supply passage (27, 127, 227, 327, 427) in communication with the product inside the container. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 13 characterized in that the supply passage (27, 227, 427) is delimited between an element (10, 210, 410) secured to the body of the container, in particular obtained by molding with the latter, and an element (26, 222, 422) integral with the movable member, in particular obtained by molding with the latter. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 13 characterized in that the supply passage (127) is defined essentially by the movable member. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claims 8 and 13 characterized in that the supply passage (327) is delimited between an element (310) integral with the body of the container, in particular obtained by molding with this last, and said intermediate piece (360). Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of claims 8 to 16 characterized in that the opening / closing system (29, 129) is formed by the cooperation of an element integral with the body of the container, in particular obtained by molding with the latter, and by an element secured to the movable member, in particular obtained by molding with the latter. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of Claims 8 to 16, characterized in that the opening / closing system (129, 229, 329, 429) is formed by the cooperation of the movable member and a portion integral with the actuating member. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of Claims 8 to 18, characterized in that the said surface (121, 221, 321) of the actuating member is movable according to a stroke greater than the stroke of the rest of the actuating member, the communication between the supply passage and the dispensing orifice being established in response to the movement of said surface of the actuating member when the rest of the latter is axially stationary . Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to Claims 8 and 19 characterized in that the opening / closing system (329) is formed by the cooperation of an integral portion of the actuating member and of said intermediate piece. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of Claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the second position of the movable member is determined by the engagement of a lower end, in particular in the form a crenellated edge (28, 128, 228, 428), of the movable member with the bottom of the container, or with any other stop encountered by the movable member or by any other element to which the movable member is coupled. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom (104) of the container is an attached bottom, the fixing of the bottom to the body of the container being obtained in particular by snap-on, screwing, gluing or welding. Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispensing orifice is fed by a plurality of swirl channels (32, 132, 232, 332, 432 ). Assembly (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) according to claim 5 characterized in that the elastic return means is configured in the form of a stack of at least three rings (61-65) connected two by two via two diametrically opposed spacers (66, 67, 68, 69), the spacers (66, 67) separating a first ring (61) from a second ring (62) adjacent to the first being offset by 90 ° relative to the spacers (68, 69) separating the second ring (62) from a third ring (63) adjacent to the second and arranged on the side of the second opposite to the first.

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