EP1590765A2 - Dosage indicator for a device dispensing a fluid product - Google Patents

Dosage indicator for a device dispensing a fluid product

Info

Publication number
EP1590765A2
EP1590765A2 EP04703152A EP04703152A EP1590765A2 EP 1590765 A2 EP1590765 A2 EP 1590765A2 EP 04703152 A EP04703152 A EP 04703152A EP 04703152 A EP04703152 A EP 04703152A EP 1590765 A2 EP1590765 A2 EP 1590765A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
indicator according
indicator
counting wheel
rotary
actuation
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
EP04703152A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1590765B1 (en
Inventor
Fabio Stradella
Giuseppe Stradella
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.)
Aptar France SAS
Original Assignee
RG SAS Di Rosaria Galli and Co
Tebro SA
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 RG SAS Di Rosaria Galli and Co, Tebro SA filed Critical RG SAS Di Rosaria Galli and Co
Publication of EP1590765A2 publication Critical patent/EP1590765A2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1590765B1 publication Critical patent/EP1590765B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06M—COUNTING MECHANISMS; COUNTING OF OBJECTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06M1/00—Design features of general application
    • G06M1/04—Design features of general application for driving the stage of lowest order
    • G06M1/045—Design features of general application for driving the stage of lowest order for dial, pointer, or similar type indicating means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06M—COUNTING MECHANISMS; COUNTING OF OBJECTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06M1/00—Design features of general application
    • G06M1/22—Design features of general application for visual indication of the result of count on counting mechanisms, e.g. by window with magnifying lens
    • G06M1/24—Drums; Dials; Pointers
    • G06M1/248—Discs

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a dose indicator, as well as a fluid dispenser device comprising such an indicator.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide a dose indicator intended for a device for dispensing a fluid product, which does not reproduce the abovementioned drawbacks.
  • the present invention aims to provide a dose indicator which is simple and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble, and which can in particular be applied to all existing fluid dispenser devices without involving a modification of the procedure assembly.
  • the present invention also aims to provide a dose indicator which is small, regardless of the number of doses contained in the dispensing device.
  • the present invention also aims to provide a dose indicator which forms a complete and separate unit, and which in particular comprises the means for actuating the indicator.
  • the present invention also aims to provide a dose indicator which is easy to read for the user, and which can also be used by people with vision problems, and in particular by the blind.
  • the present invention also aims to provide a dose indicator which avoids any risk of undercounting (not taking into account a distributed dose). More particularly, the present invention aims to provide a dose indicator which counts during the first part of the actuation stroke of the dispensing device with which it is associated.
  • the present invention therefore relates to a dose indicator for a device for dispensing a fluid product, characterized in that it comprises a rotary counting wheel displaceable in rotation and a translational member displaceable in translation, said counting wheel comprising means of indications.
  • said rotary counting wheel comprising a hollow profile cooperating with a projection of said translating member, the shape of said hollow profile being such that 'at least some rotations of said rotary counting wheel cause a translation of said translating member, modifying the position of said translating member relative to said counting wheel.
  • said means of indication at least partially follow said hollow profile.
  • the shape of said hollow profile is irregular so that the dose indication is progressive.
  • said hollow profile is at least partially in the form of a spiral.
  • said rotary counting wheel and said translating member are arranged in a cover comprising a viewing window cooperating with the viewing opening of the translating member.
  • said rotary counting wheel is a thin disc having a toothing, said toothing cooperating with actuation means adapted to rotate said rotary disc.
  • said actuating means comprise a drive element integral with a ring surrounding said toothing, said drive element coming to cooperate with said toothing each time a dose is dispensed.
  • said ring includes non-return means, preventing said rotary disc from rotating in the opposite direction to that induced by said drive element.
  • said actuating means comprise at least one flexible tab.
  • said actuating means comprise a transmission element adapted to cooperate with said fluid dispenser device on each actuation of the latter, said transmission element cooperating with said drive element to rotate said rotary disc.
  • said transmission element is a shoulder integral with said drive element, and cooperating with a part of the fluid dispenser device which is movable during actuation.
  • the rotary counting wheel, the translating member, the actuating means and the cover form a unit, which can be assembled in a fluid dispenser device.
  • the actuation means comprise a flexible tab comprising a first part of flexible tab and a second part of flexible tab more rigid than the first part of tab, the first part of tab supporting an actuating tooth adapted to cooperate with the toothing of said rotary counting wheel each time the device is actuated.
  • said ring includes a stop adapted to cooperate with a locking element integral with said flexible tab to limit the rotation of said rotary counting wheel.
  • the second, more rigid leg portion is adapted to bend from the moment when the blocking element is blocked by the stop means of the ring.
  • the rotation of the rotary counting wheel is achieved by the first part of the actuating stroke of the fluid dispenser device, the bending of the second more rigid leg portion allowing said actuating stroke to continue. fluid dispenser device to its end despite the blocking of the blocking element by the stop means.
  • said means of indication are numbers and / or symbols and / or colors.
  • the present invention also relates to a fluid product dispensing device, comprising a product reservoir and a dispensing member, such as a pump or a valve, mounted on said reservoir, as well as a dose indicator as defined. above.
  • the dose indicator is actuated by a part of the reservoir which is moved during actuation of the device, and which cooperates with a transmission element of said indicator.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic side view partially cut away of a fluid dispenser device comprising a dose indicator according to an advantageous embodiment of the present invention
  • - Figure 2 is a front view, similar to that of figure 1
  • FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a dose indicator according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 4 is a view similar to that of Figure 3, taken from another angle of view
  • - Figure 5 is a schematic rear view of the indicator of Figures 3 and 4,
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic front view of the indicator of Figures 3 and 4.
  • FIG. 7 is a partially cut diagrammatic view which represents the counter when there are 10 doses left
  • FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7 which represents the counter when no dose remains
  • FIG. 9 is a schematic view of the counting wheel of Figures 3 to 8
  • - Figure 10 is a schematic view of a counting wheel according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.
  • the dose indicator A of the present invention applies to all types of fluid dispensing devices. However, it applies more particularly to spraying devices, and advantageously to aerosol devices comprising a metering valve mounted on a container containing a product and a propellant gas.
  • FIGs 1 and 2 schematically represent a dispensing device B to which the dose indicator A of the present invention is particularly suitable.
  • This device comprises a body 50 and a reservoir 51 on which a metering valve 52 is assembled.
  • the actuation of the device B being obtained by axial displacement of the reservoir 51 inside the body 50, this displacement causing compression of the pressure valve.
  • the valve 52 which causes the expulsion of a dose of product through a buccal orifice 55.
  • the present invention also applies to other types of dispensing devices, and in particular spraying devices of the type nasal, or devices comprising a pump in place and place of the valve.
  • Figures 3 to 10 show a dose indicator A which can in particular be used with a fluid dispenser device B described above.
  • This dose indicator comprises a rotary counting wheel 10, preferably produced in the form of a rotary disc, adapted to move in rotation around an axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to said disc 10.
  • This rotary disc 10 is preferably thin and provided with a hollow profile 18, which can advantageously be produced by means of a rib.
  • the disc 10 also advantageously comprises a toothing 19, preferably produced on its periphery, said toothing 19 being adapted to cooperate with actuation means which are adapted to rotate said disc 10, and which will be described more fully below.
  • the counting disc or wheel 10 also comprises indication means 15, which can be numbers and / or symbols and / or colors, and which are intended to indicate the number of doses dispensed or remaining to be dispensed. These indication means 15 advantageously at least partially follow said hollow profile 18. Any combination of different indication means 15 can also be envisaged.
  • the indicator A shown in the figures further comprises a translational member 20, adapted to move in translation.
  • This translating member 20 comprises a projection 28, or any other equivalent means, which cooperates with said hollow profile 18 of the rotating disc 10.
  • This translating member 20 is preferably produced in the form of a thin plate, and has a viewing opening. 25 intended to cooperate with the indication means 15 of the rotary disc 10.
  • a rotation of the counting wheel 10 may cause the translational member 20 to translate.
  • the profile 18 is produced so that the indication is progressive and not regular.
  • the indicator in FIGS. 3 to 9 can have approximately 200 doses, the last 50 being displayed in intervals of 5 in the viewing opening 25 of the translational member 20.
  • the hollow profile 18 is d 'first in a spiral, in the center of the disc 10, so that each rotation of said disc 10 causes a translation of said translating member 20.
  • the profile 18 becomes cylindrical, so that the following rotations of the disc 10 no longer move the translational member 20.
  • the indication numbers 18 are then displayed in the viewing opening 25 progressively actuation of the device.
  • FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment, in which the indicator can count 120 doses, the progressive indication being made in intervals of 10 between the first and the 60 th dose, and in intervals of 5 thereafter.
  • the counting route 10 and the translating member 20 are arranged in a cover 40, which is preferably also of thin structure, and which comprises a viewing window 45, cooperating with the viewing opening 25 of the member. translative 20 to allow the user to view the means of indication 15 of the counting route 10
  • the actuation of the indicator A, and in particular the rotation of the rotary counting wheel 10 can advantageously be achieved by means actuation integrated in said indicator A.
  • these actuation means may advantageously comprise a drive element 31 secured to a ring 30 which surrounds said toothing 19 of the rotary disc 10.
  • This drive element 31 is adapted to cooperate with said toothing 19 each time a dose is dispensed, preferably by means of an actuating tooth 35.
  • non-return means 36, 37 to prevent said rotary disc 10 from rotating in the opposite direction to that given to it by the drive element 31 during actuation.
  • These non-return means may include a flexible tab 36 supporting a non-return tooth 37 cooperating with the toothing 19.
  • the actuating means also advantageously comprise a transmission element 34 which is adapted to cooperate with the fluid dispenser device B, on each actuation of the latter, said transmission element 34 cooperating on the other hand with said element d drive 31 to rotate said rotary disc 10.
  • said transmission element 34 is a shoulder integral with the drive element 31 and which cooperates with a part 54 of the fluid dispenser device B which is movable during actuation. In the example shown, it is the fixing ring 54 of the metering valve 52 on the reservoir 51.
  • any part which moves during the actuation of the device B is adapted to cooperate with shoulder 34 to activate the dose indicator A.
  • the actuation means may comprise at least one flexible tab 31 forming the drive element, this flexible tab 31 can be provided with two flexible parts 32 and 33 of different flexibility, the part 32 being more flexible than part 33.
  • part 33 is wider than part 32.
  • the flexible tab 31 supports said shoulder 34, and when the spraying device B is actuated, the fixing ring 54 of the reservoir causes first the more flexible part 32 of the arm 31 to bend parallel to the rotary disc 10, which causes the rotation of said disc 10 by means of the actuating tooth 35 which cooperates with the toothing 19.
  • the flexible tab 31 advantageously comprises an element blocking 38 adapted to cooperate with a projecting stop 39 sofidary of the ring 30.
  • the radial distance between the blocking element 38 and the stop 39 advantageously corresponds to a tooth of the has teeth 19.
  • Stop 39 and the non-return means 36, 37 ensure that each dose is counted only once.
  • the cover 40 includes guide means 41, such as rails or ribs, which cooperate with the translational member 20 to guide it in its movement in translation.
  • guide means 41 such as rails or ribs, which cooperate with the translational member 20 to guide it in its movement in translation.
  • the number of teeth on the toothing 19 and the shape of the hollow profile 18 of the counting wheel 10 therefore give the characteristics of the dose indicator, and in particular the number of doses that this indicator can count.
  • a dose indicator suitable for counting approximately 200 doses has been shown, the last 50 being displayed numerically in intervals of 5 in the viewing opening 25 of the member. conveyance.
  • the maximum number of doses and the display mode can be varied as desired by modifying the structure of the profile 18, the means of indication, or the number of teeth on the toothing 19.
  • the present invention therefore makes it possible to produce dose indicators adapted to count any number of doses, without modifying the geometry or the size of said indicator.
  • the dimensional structure of this indicator is particularly weak, in particular in the dimension of the thickness, and this indicator A can therefore very easily be integrated into the existing fluid product distribution devices B, as can be seen on Figures 1 and 2.
  • the dose indicator of the present invention makes it possible to view in a simple, inexpensive and progressive manner the number of doses dispensed or the number of doses remaining to be dispensed in the device.
  • the structure of the indicator is very thin, regardless of the number of doses that it must indicate, and it has no protruding part involving a modification of the device to which it is applied.
  • the dose indicator A of the present invention is very easily applicable to all existing devices, without these having to be modified. The presence of the indicator A does not modify either the assembly process of the device B.
  • the indicator can for example be placed in the device B through a opening provided for this purpose on the front part of the body 50 of the device.
  • Another advantage of the present indicator is that the means for actuating the indicator are integrated therein, so that the indicator forms a separate and autonomous unit which can be pre-assembled, and easily integrated into any which fluid dispenser device.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Infusion, Injection, And Reservoir Apparatuses (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
  • Loading And Unloading Of Fuel Tanks Or Ships (AREA)
  • Displays For Variable Information Using Movable Means (AREA)

Abstract

A dosage indicator (A) for a device dispensing a fluid product (B), characterized in that it comprises a rotary counter wheel (10) which can be rotationally displaced by a translational element (20) which can be translationally displaced. The counter wheel comprises indicating means (15) which indicate the number of doses dispensed or to be dispensed, cooperates with a viewing window (25) provided in the translational element (20). The counter wheel (10) has a hollow profiled section (18) which cooperates with a projection (28) of the translational element (20). The shape of the hollow profiled section (18) is such that at least certain rotations of said rotary counter wheel (10) result in a translation of said translational element (20), modifying the position of the translational element (20) in relation to the counter wheel (10).

Description

Indicateur de doses pour dispositif de distribution de produit fluide Dose indicator for fluid dispensing device
La présente invention concerne un indicateur de doses, ainsi qu'un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide comportant un tel indicateur.The present invention relates to a dose indicator, as well as a fluid dispenser device comprising such an indicator.
Dans le domaine des dispositifs de distribution de produit fluide destinés à distribuer plusieurs doses, et en particulier dans le domaine des pulvérisateurs, de nombreux systèmes destinés à indiquer le nombre de doses distribuées ou le nombre de doses restant à distribuer ont été développés.In the field of fluid dispenser devices intended to dispense several doses, and in particular in the field of sprayers, numerous systems intended to indicate the number of doses dispensed or the number of doses remaining to be dispensed have been developed.
La plupart de ces systèmes présentent de nombreux inconvénients. Ainsi, ils sont généralement conçus aux moyens de plusieurs roues dentées formant des engrenages, dont le nombre dépend de la quantité de doses à compter. Par conséquent, ces compteurs ou indicateurs peuvent devenir très complexes, encombrants, et donc coûteux à fabriquer et à assembler. D'autre part, l'indication est généralement donnée par des chiffres, qui sont souvent difficiles à lire pour l'utilisateur, en particulier lorsque les dispositifs de distribution sont destinés à distribuer un grand nombre de doses, par exemple jusqu'à 200 doses. De même, tous les systèmes de compteurs ou d'indication de doses actuels ne sont pas utilisables par les personnes ayant des problèmes de vue, et notamment par les aveugles. Un autre inconvénient majeur réside dans le fait que les compteurs existants nécessitent généralement une procédure d'assemblage du dispositif de distribution qui est modifiée de par la présence du compteur, et qui diffère donc de la procédure d'assemblage habituelle. Ceci augmente la complexité du dispositif, et implique par conséquent un coût supérieur.Most of these systems have many drawbacks. Thus, they are generally designed by means of several toothed wheels forming gears, the number of which depends on the quantity of doses to be counted. Consequently, these counters or indicators can become very complex, bulky, and therefore expensive to manufacture and to assemble. On the other hand, the indication is generally given by numbers, which are often difficult for the user to read, in particular when the dispensing devices are intended to dispense a large number of doses, for example up to 200 doses. . Likewise, all current counter or dose indication systems cannot be used by people with vision problems, and in particular by the blind. Another major drawback lies in the fact that existing meters generally require a procedure for assembling the dispensing device which is modified by the presence of the meter, and which therefore differs from the usual assembly procedure. This increases the complexity of the device, and therefore involves a higher cost.
La présente invention a pour but de fournir un indicateur de doses destiné à un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide, qui ne reproduit pas les inconvénients susmentionnés. En particulier, la présente invention a pour but de fournir un indicateur de doses qui est simple et peu coûteux à fabriquer et à assembler, et qui peut notamment être appliqué à tous les dispositifs de distribution de produit fluide existants sans impliquer une modification de la procédure d'assemblage. La présente invention a aussi pour but de fournir un indicateur de doses qui est de petite dimension, indépendamment du nombre de doses contenu dans le dispositif de distribution.The object of the present invention is to provide a dose indicator intended for a device for dispensing a fluid product, which does not reproduce the abovementioned drawbacks. In particular, the present invention aims to provide a dose indicator which is simple and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble, and which can in particular be applied to all existing fluid dispenser devices without involving a modification of the procedure assembly. The present invention also aims to provide a dose indicator which is small, regardless of the number of doses contained in the dispensing device.
La présente invention a également pour but de fournir un indicateur de doses qui forme une unité complète et séparée, et qui comprend notamment les moyens d'actionnement de l'indicateur.The present invention also aims to provide a dose indicator which forms a complete and separate unit, and which in particular comprises the means for actuating the indicator.
La présente invention a aussi pour but de fournir un indicateur de doses qui soit facile à lire pour l'utilisateur, et qui peut aussi être utilisé par des personnes ayant des problèmes de vue, et notamment par les aveugles. La présente invention a encore pour but de fournir un indicateur de doses qui évite tout risque de sous-comptage (non prise en compte d'une dose distribuée). Plus particulièrement, la présente invention à pour but de fournir un indicateur de doses qui compte pendant la première partie de la course d'actionnement du dispositif de distribution auquel il est associé. La présente invention a donc pour objet un indicateur de doses pour dispositif de distribution de produit fluide caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte une roue de comptage rotative déplaçable en rotation et un organe translatif déplaçable en translation ladite roue de comptage comportant des moyens d'indications indiquant le nombre de dose distribuée au restant à distribuer, coopérant avec une ouverture de visualisation) prévue dans le dite organe translatif, ladite roue de comptage rotative comportant un profil creux coopérant avec une projection dudit organe translatif, la forme dudit profil creux étant tel qu'au moins certaines rotations de ladite roue de comptage rotative entraînent une translation dudit organe translatif, modifiant la position dudit organe translatif par rapport à la dite roue de comptage.The present invention also aims to provide a dose indicator which is easy to read for the user, and which can also be used by people with vision problems, and in particular by the blind. The present invention also aims to provide a dose indicator which avoids any risk of undercounting (not taking into account a distributed dose). More particularly, the present invention aims to provide a dose indicator which counts during the first part of the actuation stroke of the dispensing device with which it is associated. The present invention therefore relates to a dose indicator for a device for dispensing a fluid product, characterized in that it comprises a rotary counting wheel displaceable in rotation and a translational member displaceable in translation, said counting wheel comprising means of indications. indicating the number of doses dispensed to the remainder to be dispensed, cooperating with a viewing opening) provided in said translating member, said rotary counting wheel comprising a hollow profile cooperating with a projection of said translating member, the shape of said hollow profile being such that 'at least some rotations of said rotary counting wheel cause a translation of said translating member, modifying the position of said translating member relative to said counting wheel.
Avantageusement, lesdits moyens d'indication suivent au moins partiellement ledit profil creux.Advantageously, said means of indication at least partially follow said hollow profile.
Avantageusement, la forme dudit profil creux est irrégulière de sorte que l'indication de dose est progressive. Avantageusement, ledit profil creux est au moins partiellement en forme de spirale. Avantageusement, ladite roue de comptage rotative et ledit organe translatif sont disposés dans un couvercle comportant une fenêtre de visualisation coopérant avec l'ouverture de visualisation de l'organe translatif.Advantageously, the shape of said hollow profile is irregular so that the dose indication is progressive. Advantageously, said hollow profile is at least partially in the form of a spiral. Advantageously, said rotary counting wheel and said translating member are arranged in a cover comprising a viewing window cooperating with the viewing opening of the translating member.
Avantageusement, ladite roue de comptage rotative est un disque mince comportant une denture, ladite denture coopérant avec des moyens d'actionnement adaptés à faire tourner ledit disque rotatif .Advantageously, said rotary counting wheel is a thin disc having a toothing, said toothing cooperating with actuation means adapted to rotate said rotary disc.
Avantageusement, lesdits moyens d'actionnement comportent un élément d'entraînement solidaire d'une bague entourant la dite denture, ledit élément d'entraînement venant coopérer avec ladite denture chaque fois qu'une dose est distribuée.Advantageously, said actuating means comprise a drive element integral with a ring surrounding said toothing, said drive element coming to cooperate with said toothing each time a dose is dispensed.
Avantageusement, ladite bague comporte des moyens anti-retour, empêchant ledit disque rotatif de tourner dans le sens opposé à celui induit par ledit élément d'entraînement.Advantageously, said ring includes non-return means, preventing said rotary disc from rotating in the opposite direction to that induced by said drive element.
Avantageusement, lesdits moyens d'actionnement comportent au moins une patte flexible .Advantageously, said actuating means comprise at least one flexible tab.
Avantageusement, lesdits moyens d'actionnement comportent un élément de transmission adapté à coopérer avec ledit dispositif de distribution de produit fluide à chaque actionnement de celui-ci, ledit élément de transmission coopérant avec ledit élément d'entraînement pour faire tourner ledit disque rotatif.Advantageously, said actuating means comprise a transmission element adapted to cooperate with said fluid dispenser device on each actuation of the latter, said transmission element cooperating with said drive element to rotate said rotary disc.
Avantageusement, ledit élément de transmission est un épaulement solidaire dudit élément d'entraînement, et coopérant avec une partie du dispositif de distribution de produit fluide qui est mobile pendant l' actionnement.Advantageously, said transmission element is a shoulder integral with said drive element, and cooperating with a part of the fluid dispenser device which is movable during actuation.
Avantageusement, la roue de comptage rotative, l'organe translatif, les moyens d'actionnement et le couvercle forment une unité, qui peut être assemblée dans un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide.Advantageously, the rotary counting wheel, the translating member, the actuating means and the cover form a unit, which can be assembled in a fluid dispenser device.
Avantageusement, les moyens d'actionnement comportent une patte flexible comportant une première partie de patte flexible et une seconde partie de patte flexible plus rigide que la première partie de patte, la première partie de patte supportant une dent d'actionnement adaptée à coopérer avec la denture de la dite roue de comptage rotative à chaque actionnement du dispositif. Avantageusement, ladite bague comporte une butée adaptée à coopérer avec un élément de blocage solidaire de ladite patte flexible pour limiter la rotation de ladite roue de comptage rotative.Advantageously, the actuation means comprise a flexible tab comprising a first part of flexible tab and a second part of flexible tab more rigid than the first part of tab, the first part of tab supporting an actuating tooth adapted to cooperate with the toothing of said rotary counting wheel each time the device is actuated. Advantageously, said ring includes a stop adapted to cooperate with a locking element integral with said flexible tab to limit the rotation of said rotary counting wheel.
Avantageusement, la seconde partie de patte plus rigide est adaptée à se fléchir à partir du moment où l'élément de blocage est bloqué par les moyens de butée de la bague.Advantageously, the second, more rigid leg portion is adapted to bend from the moment when the blocking element is blocked by the stop means of the ring.
Avantageusement, la rotation de la roue de comptage rotative est réalisée par la première partie de la course d'actionnement du dispositif de distribution de produit fluide, la flexion de la seconde partie de patte plus rigide permettant une poursuite de ladite course d'actionnement du dispositif de distribution de produit fluide jusqu'à son terme malgré le blocage de l'élément de blocage par les moyens de butée.Advantageously, the rotation of the rotary counting wheel is achieved by the first part of the actuating stroke of the fluid dispenser device, the bending of the second more rigid leg portion allowing said actuating stroke to continue. fluid dispenser device to its end despite the blocking of the blocking element by the stop means.
Avantageusement, lesdits moyens d'indication sont des nombres et/ou des symboles et/ ou des couleurs. La présente invention a aussi pour objet un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide, comportant un réservoir de produit et un organe de distribution, tel qu'une pompe ou une valve, monté sur ledit réservoir, ainsi qu'un indicateur de doses tel que défini ci-dessus.Advantageously, said means of indication are numbers and / or symbols and / or colors. The present invention also relates to a fluid product dispensing device, comprising a product reservoir and a dispensing member, such as a pump or a valve, mounted on said reservoir, as well as a dose indicator as defined. above.
Avantageusement, l'indicateur de dose est actionné par une partie du réservoir qui est déplacée lors de ractionnement du dispositif, et qui coopère avec un élément de transmission dudit indicateur.Advantageously, the dose indicator is actuated by a part of the reservoir which is moved during actuation of the device, and which cooperates with a transmission element of said indicator.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement au cours de la description détaillée suivante d'un mode de réalisation particulier de celle-ci, faite en référence aux dessins joints, donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, et sur lesquels,Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly during the following detailed description of a particular embodiment thereof, given with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of nonlimiting examples, and on which,
- la figure 1 est une vue schématique de côté partiellement découpée d'un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide comportant un indicateur de doses selon un mode de réalisation avantageux de la présente invention, - la figure 2 est une vue de face, similaire à celle de la figure 1, - la figure 3 est une vue éclatée d'un indicateur de doses selon un mode de réalisation avantageux de l'invention,- Figure 1 is a schematic side view partially cut away of a fluid dispenser device comprising a dose indicator according to an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, - Figure 2 is a front view, similar to that of figure 1, FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a dose indicator according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention,
- la figure 4 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 3, prise selon un autre angle de vue, - la figure 5 est une vue schématique de derrière de l'indicateur des figures 3 et 4,- Figure 4 is a view similar to that of Figure 3, taken from another angle of view, - Figure 5 is a schematic rear view of the indicator of Figures 3 and 4,
- la figure 6 est une vue schématique de devant de l'indicateur des figures 3 et 4.- Figure 6 is a schematic front view of the indicator of Figures 3 and 4.
- la figure 7 est une vue schématique partiellement découpée qui représente le compteur lorsqu'il reste 10 doses,FIG. 7 is a partially cut diagrammatic view which represents the counter when there are 10 doses left,
- la figure 8 est une vue similaire à la figure 7 qui représente le compteur lorsqu'il ne reste aucune dose,FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7 which represents the counter when no dose remains,
- la figure 9 est une vue schématique de la roue de comptage des figures 3 à 8, et - la figure 10 est une vue schématique d'une roue de comptage selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention.- Figure 9 is a schematic view of the counting wheel of Figures 3 to 8, and - Figure 10 is a schematic view of a counting wheel according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.
L'indicateur de doses A de la présente invention s'applique à tous types de dispositifs de distribution de produit fluide. Il s'applique toutefois plus particulièrement aux dispositifs de pulvérisation, et avantageusement aux dispositifs aérosols comportant une valve doseuse montée sur un récipient contenant un produit et un gaz propulseur.The dose indicator A of the present invention applies to all types of fluid dispensing devices. However, it applies more particularly to spraying devices, and advantageously to aerosol devices comprising a metering valve mounted on a container containing a product and a propellant gas.
Les figures 1 et 2 représentent schématiquement un dispositif de distribution B auquel l'indicateur de doses A de la présente invention est particulièrement adapté. Ce dispositif comporte un corps 50 et un réservoir 51 sur lequel est assemblée une valve doseuse 52. L' actionnement du dispositif B étant obtenu par déplacement axial du réservoir 51 à l'intérieur du corps 50, ce déplacement entraînant une compression de la soupape de la valve 52 ce qui provoque l'expulsion d'une dose de produit à travers un orifice buccal 55. Bien entendu, la présente invention s'applique également à d'autres types de dispositifs de distribution, et notamment des dispositifs de pulvérisation du type nasal, ou des dispositifs comportant une pompe en Heu et place de la valve. Les figures 3 à 10 représentent un indicateur de doses A qui peut notamment être utilisé avec un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide B décrit ci-dessus. Cet indicateur de doses comprend une roue de comptage rotative 10, de préférence réalisée sous la forme d'un disque rotatif, adaptée à se déplacer en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation sensiblement perpendiculaire audit disque 10. Ce disque rotatif 10 est de préférence mince et pourvu d'un profil creux 18, qui peut avantageusement être réalisé au moyen d'une nervure. Le disque 10 comporte en outre avantageusement une denture 19, de préférence réalisée sur sa périphérie, ladite denture 19 étant adaptée à coopérer avec des moyens d'actionnement qui sont adaptés à faire tourner ledit disque 10, et qui seront décrits plus amplement ci-après. Le disque ou roue de comptage 10 comporte également des moyens d'indication 15, qui peuvent être des nombres et/ou des symboles et/ ou des couleurs, et qui sont destinés à indiquer le nombre de doses distribuées ou restant à distribuer. Ces moyens d'indication 15 suivent avantageusement au moins partiellement ledit profil creux 18. Une combinaison quelconque de différents moyens d'indication 15 est aussi envisageable.Figures 1 and 2 schematically represent a dispensing device B to which the dose indicator A of the present invention is particularly suitable. This device comprises a body 50 and a reservoir 51 on which a metering valve 52 is assembled. The actuation of the device B being obtained by axial displacement of the reservoir 51 inside the body 50, this displacement causing compression of the pressure valve. the valve 52 which causes the expulsion of a dose of product through a buccal orifice 55. Of course, the present invention also applies to other types of dispensing devices, and in particular spraying devices of the type nasal, or devices comprising a pump in place and place of the valve. Figures 3 to 10 show a dose indicator A which can in particular be used with a fluid dispenser device B described above. This dose indicator comprises a rotary counting wheel 10, preferably produced in the form of a rotary disc, adapted to move in rotation around an axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to said disc 10. This rotary disc 10 is preferably thin and provided with a hollow profile 18, which can advantageously be produced by means of a rib. The disc 10 also advantageously comprises a toothing 19, preferably produced on its periphery, said toothing 19 being adapted to cooperate with actuation means which are adapted to rotate said disc 10, and which will be described more fully below. . The counting disc or wheel 10 also comprises indication means 15, which can be numbers and / or symbols and / or colors, and which are intended to indicate the number of doses dispensed or remaining to be dispensed. These indication means 15 advantageously at least partially follow said hollow profile 18. Any combination of different indication means 15 can also be envisaged.
L'indicateur A représenté sur les figures comporte en outre un organe translatif 20, adapté à se déplacer en translation. Cet organe translatif 20 comporte une projection 28, ou tout autre moyen équivalent, qui coopère avec ledit profil creux 18 du disque rotatif 10. Cet organe translatif 20 est de préférence réalisé sous la forme d'une plaque mince, et comporte une ouverture de visualisation 25 destinée à coopérer avec les moyens d'indication 15 du disque rotatif 10.The indicator A shown in the figures further comprises a translational member 20, adapted to move in translation. This translating member 20 comprises a projection 28, or any other equivalent means, which cooperates with said hollow profile 18 of the rotating disc 10. This translating member 20 is preferably produced in the form of a thin plate, and has a viewing opening. 25 intended to cooperate with the indication means 15 of the rotary disc 10.
Selon la forme du profil creux 18, une rotation de la roue de comptage 10 peut entraîner une translation de l'organe translatif 20. Avantageusement, le profil 18 est réalisé de telle sorte que l'indication est progressive et non régulière. Par exemple, l'indicateur des figures 3 à 9 peut compter environ 200 doses, les 50 dernières étant affichées par intervalle de 5 dans l'ouverture de visualisation 25 de l'organe translatif 20. Dans cet exemple, le profil creux 18 est d'abord en spirale, au centre du disque 10, de sorte que chaque rotation dudit disque 10 entraîne une translation dudit organe translatif 20. Lorsqu'il ne reste que 50 doses à distribuer, le profil 18 devient cylindrique, de sorte que les rotations suivantes du disque 10 ne déplacent plus l'organe translatif 20. Les chiffres d'indication 18 s'affichent alors dans l'ouverture de visualisation 25 au fur et à mesure de l'actionnement du dispositif. Après la dernière dose, un symbole spécifique 17 peut indiquer qu'il ne reste aucune dose à distribuer, la figure 10 montre une variante de réalisation, dans lequel l'indicateur peut compter 120 doses, l'indication progressive se faisant par intervalle de 10 entre la première et la 60ème dose, et par intervalle de 5 ensuite. D'autres progressions sont aussi envisageables. Avantageusement, la route de comptage 10 et l'organe translatif 20 sont disposés dans un couvercle 40, qui est de préférence également de structure mince, et qui comporte une fenêtre de visualisation 45, coopérant avec l'ouverture de visualisation 25 de l'organe translatif 20 pour permettre à l'utilisateur de visualiser les moyens d'indication 15 de la route de comptage 10 L'actionnement de l'indicateur A, et en particulier la rotation de la roue de comptage rotative 10 peut avantageusement être réalisé par des moyens d'actionnement intégrés dans ledit indicateur A. Ainsi, en référence aux figures 3 à 10, ces moyens d'actionnement peuvent avantageusement comporter un élément d'entraînement 31 solidaire d'une bague 30 qui entoure ladite denture 19 du disque rotatif 10. Cet élément d'entraînement 31 est adapté à coopérer avec ladite denture 19 à chaque fois qu'une dose est distribuée, de préférence au moyen d'une dent d'actionnement 35. Avantageusement, il est prévu des moyens anti-retour 36, 37 pour empêcher ledit disque rotatif 10 de tourner dans le sens inverse à celui qui lui est donné par l'élément d'entraînement 31 lors de l'actionnement. Ces moyens anti-retour peuvent comporter une patte flexible 36 supportant une dent anti-retour 37 coopérant avec la denture 19.Depending on the shape of the hollow profile 18, a rotation of the counting wheel 10 may cause the translational member 20 to translate. Advantageously, the profile 18 is produced so that the indication is progressive and not regular. For example, the indicator in FIGS. 3 to 9 can have approximately 200 doses, the last 50 being displayed in intervals of 5 in the viewing opening 25 of the translational member 20. In this example, the hollow profile 18 is d 'first in a spiral, in the center of the disc 10, so that each rotation of said disc 10 causes a translation of said translating member 20. When only 50 remain doses to be dispensed, the profile 18 becomes cylindrical, so that the following rotations of the disc 10 no longer move the translational member 20. The indication numbers 18 are then displayed in the viewing opening 25 progressively actuation of the device. After the last dose, a specific symbol 17 may indicate that no dose remains to be dispensed, FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment, in which the indicator can count 120 doses, the progressive indication being made in intervals of 10 between the first and the 60 th dose, and in intervals of 5 thereafter. Other improvements are also possible. Advantageously, the counting route 10 and the translating member 20 are arranged in a cover 40, which is preferably also of thin structure, and which comprises a viewing window 45, cooperating with the viewing opening 25 of the member. translative 20 to allow the user to view the means of indication 15 of the counting route 10 The actuation of the indicator A, and in particular the rotation of the rotary counting wheel 10 can advantageously be achieved by means actuation integrated in said indicator A. Thus, with reference to Figures 3 to 10, these actuation means may advantageously comprise a drive element 31 secured to a ring 30 which surrounds said toothing 19 of the rotary disc 10. This drive element 31 is adapted to cooperate with said toothing 19 each time a dose is dispensed, preferably by means of an actuating tooth 35. Advantageously, it is provided with non-return means 36, 37 to prevent said rotary disc 10 from rotating in the opposite direction to that given to it by the drive element 31 during actuation. These non-return means may include a flexible tab 36 supporting a non-return tooth 37 cooperating with the toothing 19.
Les moyens d'actionnement comportent également avantageusement un élément de transmission 34 qui est adapté à coopérer avec le dispositif de distribution de produit fluide B, à chaque actionnement de celui-ci, ledit élément de transmission 34 coopérant d'autre part avec ledit élément d'entraînement 31 pour faire tourner ledit disque rotatif 10. En particuHer, comme visible notamment sur la figure 1, ledit élément de transmission 34 est un épaulement solidaire de l'élément d'entraînement 31 et qui coopère avec une partie 54 du dispositif de distribution de produit fluide B qui est mobile pendant l'actionnement. Dans l'exemple représenté, il s'agit de la bague de fixation 54 de la valve doseuse 52 sur le réservoir 51. Bien entendu, et plus généralement, toute partie qui se déplace lors de l'actionnement du dispositif B est adaptée à coopérer avec l'épaulement 34 pour actionner l'indicateur de doses A.The actuating means also advantageously comprise a transmission element 34 which is adapted to cooperate with the fluid dispenser device B, on each actuation of the latter, said transmission element 34 cooperating on the other hand with said element d drive 31 to rotate said rotary disc 10. In particular, as visible in particular in Figure 1, said transmission element 34 is a shoulder integral with the drive element 31 and which cooperates with a part 54 of the fluid dispenser device B which is movable during actuation. In the example shown, it is the fixing ring 54 of the metering valve 52 on the reservoir 51. Of course, and more generally, any part which moves during the actuation of the device B is adapted to cooperate with shoulder 34 to activate the dose indicator A.
En référence aux figures 3 à 5, les moyens d'actionnement peuvent comporter au moins une patte flexible 31 formant l'élément d'entraînement, cette patte flexible 31 pouvant être pourvue de deux parties flexibles 32 et 33 de flexibilité différente, la partie 32 étant plus flexible que la partie 33. Par exemple la partie 33 est plus large que la partie 32. La patte flexible 31 supporte ledit épaulement 34, et lorsque le dispositif de pulvérisation B est actionné, la bague de fixation 54 du réservoir entraîne d'abord la partie plus flexible 32 du bras 31 à se fléchir parallèlement au disque rotatif 10, ce qui provoque la rotation dudit disque 10 au moyen de la dent d'actionnement 35 qui coopère avec la denture 19. La patte flexible 31 comporte avantageusement un élément de blocage 38 adapté à coopérer avec une butée saillante 39 sofidaire de la bague 30. La distance radiale entre l'élément de blocage 38 et la butée 39 correspond avantageusement à une dent de la denture 19. Ainsi, pendant l'actionnement, l'épaulement 34 est déplacé (vers le bas sur les figures) par le dispositif de distribution B, et la partie de bras plus flexible 32 se fléchit (également vers le bas sur les figures), jusqu'à ce que l'élément de blocage 38 contacte la butée 39. Ceci entraîne la rotation sur l'équivalent d'une dent de la roue de comptage 10. La partie de bras plus flexible 32 est alors bloquée, et une poursuite de la course d'actionnement du dispositif de distribution B est possible par la flexion de la partie de bras moins flexible 33. De cette manière, on permet un actionnement de l'indicateur de doses dans la première partie de ladite course d'actionnement. Ceci élimine tout risque de non-comptage d'une dose distribuée (partieUement ou totalement) en cas d'actionnement partiel du dispositif de distribution B, tout en permettant une poursuite de la course d'actionnement après comptage. La butée 39 et les moyens anti-retour 36, 37 assurent que chaque dose n'est comptée qu'une seule fois.With reference to FIGS. 3 to 5, the actuation means may comprise at least one flexible tab 31 forming the drive element, this flexible tab 31 can be provided with two flexible parts 32 and 33 of different flexibility, the part 32 being more flexible than part 33. For example, part 33 is wider than part 32. The flexible tab 31 supports said shoulder 34, and when the spraying device B is actuated, the fixing ring 54 of the reservoir causes first the more flexible part 32 of the arm 31 to bend parallel to the rotary disc 10, which causes the rotation of said disc 10 by means of the actuating tooth 35 which cooperates with the toothing 19. The flexible tab 31 advantageously comprises an element blocking 38 adapted to cooperate with a projecting stop 39 sofidary of the ring 30. The radial distance between the blocking element 38 and the stop 39 advantageously corresponds to a tooth of the has teeth 19. Thus, during actuation, the shoulder 34 is moved (downward in the figures) by the dispensing device B, and the more flexible arm part 32 bends (also downward in the figures ), until the blocking element 38 contacts the stop 39. This causes rotation on the equivalent of a tooth of the counting wheel 10. The more flexible arm part 32 is then blocked, and a continuation of the actuating stroke of the dispensing device B is possible by bending the less flexible arm portion 33. In this way, the dose indicator is actuated in the first part of said actuating stroke . This eliminates any risk of non-counting of a dispensed dose (partially or totally) in the event of partial actuation of the dispensing device B, while allowing continuation of the actuation stroke after counting. Stop 39 and the non-return means 36, 37 ensure that each dose is counted only once.
Avantageusement, le couvercle 40 comporte des moyens de guidage 41, tels que des rails ou des nervures, qui coopèrent avec l'organe translatif 20 pour le guider dans son déplacement en translation.Advantageously, the cover 40 includes guide means 41, such as rails or ribs, which cooperate with the translational member 20 to guide it in its movement in translation.
Le nombre de dents sur la denture 19 et la forme du profil creux 18 de la roue de comptage 10 donnent donc les caractéristiques de l'indicateur de doses, et notamment le nombre de doses que cet indicateur peut compter. Ainsi, dans l'exemple représenté sur la figure 3 à 9, il a été représenté un indicateur de doses adapté à compter environ 200 doses, les 50 dernières étant affichées numériquement par intervalles de 5 dans l'ouverture de visualisation 25 de l'organe translatif. Bien entendu, le nombre maximal de doses et le mode d'affichage peuvent être variés à souhait en modifiant la structure du profil 18, les moyens d'indication, ou le nombre de dents sur la denture 19. La présente invention permet donc de réaliser des indicateurs de doses adaptés à compter un nombre quelconque de doses, sans modifier la géométrie ou la taille dudit indicateur. Comme déjà précisé précédemment, la structure dimensionnelle du présent indicateur est particuHèrement faible, notamment dans la dimension de l'épaisseur, et cet indicateur A peut donc très facilement être intégré dans les dispositifs de distribution de produit fluide B existants, comme cela est visible sur les figures 1 et 2.The number of teeth on the toothing 19 and the shape of the hollow profile 18 of the counting wheel 10 therefore give the characteristics of the dose indicator, and in particular the number of doses that this indicator can count. Thus, in the example represented in FIGS. 3 to 9, a dose indicator suitable for counting approximately 200 doses has been shown, the last 50 being displayed numerically in intervals of 5 in the viewing opening 25 of the member. conveyance. Of course, the maximum number of doses and the display mode can be varied as desired by modifying the structure of the profile 18, the means of indication, or the number of teeth on the toothing 19. The present invention therefore makes it possible to produce dose indicators adapted to count any number of doses, without modifying the geometry or the size of said indicator. As already specified above, the dimensional structure of this indicator is particularly weak, in particular in the dimension of the thickness, and this indicator A can therefore very easily be integrated into the existing fluid product distribution devices B, as can be seen on Figures 1 and 2.
L'indicateur de doses de la présente invention permet de visualiser de manière simple, peu coûteuse et progressive le nombre de doses distribuées ou le nombre de doses restant à distribuer dans le dispositif. La structure de l'indicateur est très mince, indépendamment du nombre de doses qu'il doit indiquer, et il ne comporte aucune partie saillante impliquant une modification du dispositif auquel il est appliqué. Comme visible sur la figure 1, l'indicateur de doses A de la présente invention s'applique très facilement à tous les dispositifs existants, sans que ceux-ci ne doivent être modifiés. La présence de l'indicateur A ne modifie pas non plus le processus d'assemblage du dispositif B.The dose indicator of the present invention makes it possible to view in a simple, inexpensive and progressive manner the number of doses dispensed or the number of doses remaining to be dispensed in the device. The structure of the indicator is very thin, regardless of the number of doses that it must indicate, and it has no protruding part involving a modification of the device to which it is applied. As visible in FIG. 1, the dose indicator A of the present invention is very easily applicable to all existing devices, without these having to be modified. The presence of the indicator A does not modify either the assembly process of the device B.
L'indicateur peut par exemple être mis en place dans le dispositif B à travers une ouverture prévue à cet effet sur la partie frontale du corps 50 du dispositif. Un autre avantage du présent indicateur est que les moyens d'actionnement de l'indicateur sont intégrés dans celui-ci, de sorte que l'indicateur forme une unité autonome et séparée qui peut être pré-assemblée, et intégrée aisément dans n'importe quel dispositif de distribution de produit fluide.The indicator can for example be placed in the device B through a opening provided for this purpose on the front part of the body 50 of the device. Another advantage of the present indicator is that the means for actuating the indicator are integrated therein, so that the indicator forms a separate and autonomous unit which can be pre-assembled, and easily integrated into any which fluid dispenser device.
Bien entendu, la présente invention a été décrite en référence à un mode de réalisation particulier de celle-ci, représenté sur les dessins, mais eue n'est aucunement Hmitée à cette forme de réalisation particulière. Au contraire, un homme du métier peut y apporter toutes modifications sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention tel que défini dans les revendications annexées. Of course, the present invention has been described with reference to a particular embodiment thereof, shown in the drawings, but it is in no way limited to this particular embodiment. On the contrary, a person skilled in the art can make any modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

Revendications claims
1.- Indicateur de doses (A) pour dispositif de distribution de produit fluide (B), caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte une roue de comptage rotative (10) déplaçable en rotation et un organe translatif (20) déplaçable en translation, ladite roue de comptage comportant des moyens d'indication1.- Dose indicator (A) for a fluid dispenser device (B), characterized in that it comprises a rotary counting wheel (10) movable in rotation and a translating member (20) displaceable in translation, said counting wheel comprising indicating means
(15), indiquant le nombre de doses distribuées au restant à distribuer, coopérant avec une ouverture de visualisation (25) prévue dans ledit organe translatif (20), ladite roue de comptage rotative (10) comportant un profil creux (18) coopérant avec une projection (28) dudit organe translatif (20), la forme dudit profil creux (18) étant telle qu'au moins certaines rotations de ladite roue de comptage rotative (10) entraînent une translation dudit organe translatif (20), modifiant la position dudit organe translatif (20) par rapport à ladite roue de comptage (10).(15), indicating the number of doses dispensed to the remainder to be dispensed, cooperating with a viewing opening (25) provided in said translating member (20), said rotary counting wheel (10) comprising a hollow profile (18) cooperating with a projection (28) of said translating member (20), the shape of said hollow profile (18) being such that at least certain rotations of said rotary counting wheel (10) cause a translation of said translating member (20), modifying the position said translating member (20) relative to said counting wheel (10).
2.- Indicateur selon la revendication 1, dans lequel lesdits moyens d'indication (15) suivent au moins partiellement ledit profil creux (18).2. An indicator according to claim 1, in which said indication means (15) at least partially follow said hollow profile (18).
3.- Indicateur selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans lequel la forme dudit profil creux (18) est irrégulière de sorte que l'indication de dose est progressive.3. Indicator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the shape of said hollow profile (18) is irregular so that the dose indication is progressive.
4.- Indicateur selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ledit profil creux (18) est au moins partieUement en forme de spirale.4. Indicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said hollow profile (18) is at least partially in the form of a spiral.
5.- Indicateur selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ladite roue de comptage rotative (10) et ledit organe translatif5. Indicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said rotary counting wheel (10) and said translative member
(20) sont disposés dans un couvercle (40) comportant une fenêtre de visualisation (45) coopérant avec l'ouverture de visualisation (25) de l'organe translatif (20).(20) are arranged in a cover (40) comprising a viewing window (45) cooperating with the viewing opening (25) of the translational member (20).
6.- Indicateur selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ladite roue de comptage rotative (10) est un disque mince comportant une denture (19), ladite denture (19) coopérant avec des moyens d'actionnement (31, 34, 35) adaptés à faire tourner ledit disque rotatif (10).6. Indicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said rotary counting wheel (10) is a thin disc comprising a toothing (19), said toothing (19) cooperating with actuating means (31, 34, 35) adapted to rotate said rotary disc (10).
7.- Indicateur selon la revendication 6, dans lequel lesdits moyens d'actionnements comportent un élément d'entraînement (31) solidaire d'une bague (30) entourant ladite denture (19), ledit élément d'entraînement (31) venant coopérer avec ladite denture (19) chaque fois qu'une dose est distribuée.7. An indicator according to claim 6, in which said actuation means comprise a drive element (31) integral with a ring (30) surrounding said toothing (19), said drive element (31) coming to cooperate. with said toothing (19) each time a dose is dispensed.
8.- Indicateur selon la revendication 7, dans lequel ladite bague (30) comporte des moyens anti-retour (36 , 37), empêchant ledit disque rotatif (10) de tourner dans le sens opposé à celui induit par ledit élément d'entraînement (31).8. An indicator according to claim 7, in which said ring (30) comprises non-return means (36, 37), preventing said rotary disc (10) from rotating in the opposite direction to that induced by said drive element. (31).
9.- Indicateur selon la revendication 7 ou 8, dans lequel lesdits moyens d'actionnement comportent au moins une patte flexible (31).9. Indicator according to claim 7 or 8, wherein said actuating means comprise at least one flexible tab (31).
10.- Indicateur selon l'une quelconque des revendications 7 à 9, dans lequel lesdits moyens d'actionnement comportent un élément de transmission (34) adapté à coopérer avec ledit dispositif de distribution de produit fluide (B) à chaque actionnement de celui-ci, ledit élément de transmission (34) coopérant avec ledit élément d'entraînement (31) pour faire tourner ledit disque rotatif (10). I - Indicateur selon la revendication 10, dans lequel ledit élément de transmission (34) est un épaulement soHdaire dudit élément d'entraînement10.- Indicator according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein said actuating means comprise a transmission element (34) adapted to cooperate with said fluid dispenser device (B) on each actuation thereof- ci, said transmission element (34) cooperating with said drive element (31) to rotate said rotary disc (10). I - Indicator according to claim 10, wherein said transmission element (34) is a solid shoulder of said drive element
(31), et coopérant avec une partie (54) du dispositif de distribution de produit fluide (B) qui est mobile pendant l'actionnement.(31), and cooperating with a part (54) of the fluid dispenser device (B) which is mobile during actuation.
12.- Indicateur selon l'une quelconque des revendications 5 à 11, dans lequel la roue de comptage rotative (10), l'organe translatif (20), les moyens d'actionnement (31, 34, 35) et le couvercle (40) forment une unité, qui peut être assemblée dans un dispositif de distribution de produit fluide (B).12.- Indicator according to any one of claims 5 to 11, in which the rotary counting wheel (10), the translating member (20), the actuating means (31, 34, 35) and the cover ( 40) form a unit, which can be assembled in a fluid dispenser (B).
13.- Indicateur selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 12, dans lequel les moyens d'actionnement comportent une patte flexible (31) comportant une première partie de patte flexible (32) et une seconde partie de patte flexible (33) plus rigide que la première partie de patte (32), la première partie de patte (32) supportant une dent d'actionnement (35) adaptée à coopérer avec la denture (19) de ladite roue de comptage rotative (10) à chaque actionnement du dispositif.13. Indicator according to any one of claims 6 to 12, in which the actuating means comprise a flexible tab (31) comprising a first part of flexible tab (32) and a second part of flexible tab (33) more rigid than the first leg part (32), the first leg portion (32) supporting an actuating tooth (35) adapted to cooperate with the toothing (19) of said rotary counting wheel (10) on each actuation of the device.
14.- Indicateur selon la revendication 13, dans lequel ladite bague (30) comporte une butée (39) adaptée à coopérer avec un élément de blocage14. Indicator according to claim 13, wherein said ring (30) comprises a stop (39) adapted to cooperate with a blocking element.
(38) solidaire de ladite patte flexible (31) pour limiter la rotation de ladite roue de comptage rotative (10).(38) integral with said flexible tab (31) to limit the rotation of said rotary counting wheel (10).
15.- Indicateur selon la revendication 14, dans lequel la seconde partie de patte (33) plus rigide est adaptée à se fléchir à partir du moment où l'élément de blocage (38) est bloqué par les moyens de butée (39) de la bague (30).15. An indicator according to claim 14, in which the second, more rigid leg portion (33) is adapted to bend from the moment when the blocking element (38) is blocked by the stop means (39) of the ring (30).
16.- Indicateur selon l'une quelconque des revendications 13 à 15, dans lequel la rotation de la roue de comptage rotative (10) est réalisée par la première partie de la course d'actionnement du dispositif de distribution de produit fluide (B), la flexion de la seconde partie de patte (33) plus rigide permettant une poursuite de ladite course d'actionnement du dispositif de distribution de produit fluide (B) jusqu'à son terme malgré le blocage de l'élément de blocage (38) par les moyens de butée (39).16. Indicator according to any one of claims 13 to 15, in which the rotation of the rotary counting wheel (10) is carried out by the first part of the actuating stroke of the fluid dispenser device (B) , the bending of the second, more rigid leg portion (33) allowing said actuation stroke of the fluid dispenser device (B) to continue until its end despite the blocking of the blocking element (38) by the stop means (39).
17.- Indicateur selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel lesdits moyens d'indication (15) sont des nombres et/ ou des symboles et/ou des couleurs.17. Indicator according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said indication means (15) are numbers and / or symbols and / or colors.
18.- Dispositif de distribution de produit fluide (B) comportant un réservoir de produit (51) et un organe de distribution (52), tel qu'une pompe ou une valve, monté sur ledit réservoir (51), caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un indicateur de doses (A) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes.18.- Fluid product distribution device (B) comprising a product reservoir (51) and a distribution member (52), such as a pump or a valve, mounted on said reservoir (51), characterized in that 'It comprises a dose indicator (A) according to any one of the preceding claims.
19.- Dispositif selon la revendication 18, dans lequel l'indicateur de doses (A) est actionné par une partie (54) du réservoir (51) qui est déplacée lors de l' actionnement du dispositif (B), et qui coopère avec un élément de transmission (34) dudit indicateur (A). 19.- Device according to claim 18, wherein the dose indicator (A) is actuated by a part (54) of the reservoir (51) which is moved during the actuation of the device (B), and which cooperates with a transmission element (34) of said indicator (A).
EP04703152A 2003-01-20 2004-01-19 Dosage indicator for a device dispensing a fluid product Expired - Lifetime EP1590765B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0300592A FR2850192B1 (en) 2003-01-20 2003-01-20 DOSING INDICATOR FOR FLUID PRODUCT DISPENSING DEVICE.
FR0300592 2003-01-20
PCT/EP2004/000346 WO2004065910A2 (en) 2003-01-20 2004-01-19 Dosage indicator for a device dispensing a fluid product

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1590765A2 true EP1590765A2 (en) 2005-11-02
EP1590765B1 EP1590765B1 (en) 2012-12-26

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP04703152A Expired - Lifetime EP1590765B1 (en) 2003-01-20 2004-01-19 Dosage indicator for a device dispensing a fluid product

Country Status (6)

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US (1) US7793798B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1590765B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4538601B2 (en)
CN (1) CN100369061C (en)
FR (1) FR2850192B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2004065910A2 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2004065910A2 (en) 2004-08-05
EP1590765B1 (en) 2012-12-26
FR2850192B1 (en) 2005-05-06
FR2850192A1 (en) 2004-07-23
US7793798B2 (en) 2010-09-14
CN1764921A (en) 2006-04-26
CN100369061C (en) 2008-02-13
US20060151524A1 (en) 2006-07-13
JP2006519141A (en) 2006-08-24
JP4538601B2 (en) 2010-09-08
WO2004065910A3 (en) 2004-10-07

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