EP1651538A2 - Control valve for a fluid product dispenser and a fluid product dispenser comprising such a valve - Google Patents

Control valve for a fluid product dispenser and a fluid product dispenser comprising such a valve

Info

Publication number
EP1651538A2
EP1651538A2 EP04767546A EP04767546A EP1651538A2 EP 1651538 A2 EP1651538 A2 EP 1651538A2 EP 04767546 A EP04767546 A EP 04767546A EP 04767546 A EP04767546 A EP 04767546A EP 1651538 A2 EP1651538 A2 EP 1651538A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
valve
metering chamber
outlet
closed
valves
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
EP04767546A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1651538B1 (en
Inventor
David Goujon
Frédéric PIROU
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
Valois SAS
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 Valois SAS filed Critical Valois SAS
Publication of EP1651538A2 publication Critical patent/EP1651538A2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1651538B1 publication Critical patent/EP1651538B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/14—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant
    • B65D83/42—Filling or charging means
    • B65D83/425—Delivery valves permitting filling or charging
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/14—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant
    • B65D83/44—Valves specially adapted therefor; Regulating devices
    • B65D83/52—Valves specially adapted therefor; Regulating devices for metering
    • B65D83/54—Metering valves ; Metering valve assemblies

Definitions

  • Valve for dispensing fluid products and dispenser comprising such a valve
  • the present invention relates to a valve for dispensing fluid products, more particularly a metering valve, as well as a dispenser for fluid products comprising such a valve.
  • Dosing valves are well known in the state of the art. They are generally intended to distribute products of the aerosol type, in which the fluid product is distributed by means of a propellant. These valves generally comprise a valve body in which a valve slides between a rest position and a dispensing position. The valve body defines a metering chamber, this metering chamber being emptied upon actuation of the valve. After actuation, when the valve returns to its rest position, the metering chamber is connected with the reservoir and it fills, generally by gravity, to allow a next actuation of the valve.
  • the present invention aims to provide such a valve which ensures perfect dosing precision and thus perfect reproducibility of the dose on each actuation of the valve.
  • the present invention also aims to provide such a valve which is simple and inexpensive to manufacture, assemble, fill and use.
  • the present invention therefore relates to a valve for dispensing fluid products intended to be assembled on a reservoir containing fluid product, said valve comprising a valve body comprising a metering chamber, the valve comprising a first valve intended to dispense the product contained in the metering chamber, and a second valve for filling said metering chamber.
  • said first and second valves are actuated separately when using the valve.
  • said first and second valves are actuated together for filling the reservoir with the fluid product.
  • said second valve is arranged around said first valve, said first valve sliding in leaktight manner in said second valve.
  • each valve cooperates with a respective elastic element, such as a spring, which urges it towards its rest position.
  • the means for actuating the first valve are different from the means for actuating the second valve.
  • said second valve defines with the valve body an inlet valve for the metering chamber, said second valve being movable relative to the valve body between a closed position and an open position of said inlet valve.
  • said valve is formed by a lateral passage formed in a wall of the second valve, said passage being closed in the closed position of the inlet valve and open in the open position of the inlet valve.
  • said first valve defines with said second valve an outlet valve for the metering chamber, said first valve being movable relative to said second valve between a closed position and an open position of said outlet valve.
  • said outlet valve is formed by a lateral passage formed in said first valve, said passage being closed in the closed position of the outlet valve and open by opening into the metering chamber in the open position of the outlet valve.
  • the valve body is made in two parts fixed to one another, in particular by snap-fastening.
  • the metering chamber in the valve rest position, is hermetically closed with respect to the reservoir and from the outside.
  • the present invention also relates to a device for dispensing fluid products comprising a reservoir containing fluid product and a propellant, as well as a valve as described above.
  • said tank is filled by means of a filling machine which simultaneously actuates the first and second valves.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a valve according to an advantageous mode of reahsation of the present invention, in the rest position;
  • Figure 2 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, in the dispensing position;
  • Figure 3 is a view similar to those of Figures 1 and 2, in the filling position of the metering chamber;
  • Figure 4 is a view similar to those of Figures 1 to 3, in the tank filling position.
  • the valve comprises a valve body 10 defining a metering chamber 20.
  • the valve body 10 can be made in two parts, a so-called upper part 11 which comprises the metering chamber
  • This lower part 12 (which in the figures appears to be the upper part, since the valve is shown in the reverse use position) , can be made of a single piece with a ring 13, called the end of the canister ring, which allows on the one hand to limit the dead volume and therefore distribute a maximum of product contained in the tank, and on the other apart from limiting the contact between the product and the seal interposed between the valve body and the fixing element.
  • This fixing element 70 can be any and is used to fix the valve on the neck of a tank (not shown), in known manner.
  • This fastening element 70 may in particular be a crimp, screw or snap-on capsule, or the like.
  • the valve comprises a first valve 30 and a second valve 40.
  • the first valve 30 is intended to dispense the product contained in the metering chamber 20 and the second valve 40 is intended to fill this metering chamber 20, from the tank (not shown).
  • the present invention therefore makes it possible to decouple the expulsion of the dose and the filling of the metering chamber, unlike a conventional valve, in which the filling of the metering chamber takes place when the valve returns from its dispensing position. towards its rest position. Said first and second valves 30, 40 are actuated separately when the valve is used.
  • the distribution of the product, carried out by means of the first valve 30, is obtained by actuating specific actuation means, for example a pusher mounted on the outlet end of the first valve 30, and movable axially, in a known manner.
  • the second valve 40 which is used to fill the metering chamber 20 after expulsion of the previous dose, is advantageously actuated by means of an actuation system distinct from the actuation system of the first valve 30.
  • actuation system distinct from the actuation system of the first valve 30.
  • a lateral actuation system can be envisaged, to avoid any risk of simultaneous actuation of the two valves.
  • the second valve 40 is arranged around the first valve 30, which slides in leaktight manner in said second valve 40.
  • a seal 80 is provided between the two valves 30 and 40, ensuring a tight sliding in all valve positions.
  • Another seal 81 can be provided between the two valves to guarantee the sealing in the rest position of the first valve 30.
  • a particular advantage of the present invention is that in the rest position of the valve, the dosage 20 is completely and tightly isolated from the outside and from the tank, so that there is no risk of dose loss, which guarantees absolute dosing precision as well as total reproducibility at each actuation, even after long storage.
  • the fact that the filling of the metering chamber is independent of the actuation or return stroke of the first dispensing valve
  • each valve 30, 40 cooperates directly or indirectly, with a respective elastic element 35, 45, such as a spring, which urges it towards its respective rest position. This rest position is shown in FIG. 1.
  • the second valve 40 is advantageously arranged around the first valve 30, this first valve 30 sliding in leaktight manner inside the second valve 40.
  • the Figures 1 and 2 show a valve distribution actuation cycle.
  • the first valve 30 is therefore moved axially inside the second valve 40 until a lateral passage 61, provided in said first valve 30, opens into said chamber 20, which causes the dose to be expelled.
  • the second valve 40 remains stationary during this distribution of the product.
  • the first valve 30 therefore defines, relative to the second valve 40, an outlet valve 60 of the metering chamber 20.
  • the metering chamber remains closed and completely isolated from the reservoir as shown in Figures 1 and 2.
  • Figure 3 shows the filling of the metering chamber 20 after a previous actuation.
  • the second valve 40 is moved axially inside the valve body 10 in particular inside the upper part of the valve body 11, until a lateral passage 51 provided in a wall 41 of said second valve 40 connects the reservoir (not shown) with the metering chamber 20.
  • the second valve 40 therefore defines a metering chamber inlet valve 50 with the valve body 10.
  • the first valve 30 always remains in the closed position of the outlet valve 60 of the metering chamber 20, so that there is no risk of loss of product during this filling phase.
  • the first valve 30 is driven axially by the second valve 40 during this filling cycle of the metering chamber 20, but since there is no relative movement between the two valves, the outlet valve 60 remains closed.
  • the second valve 40 can be made in two parts fixed to one another, an upper part 41 forming a wall of the metering chamber 20, and a lower part 42 fixed to said first part 41. These two parts 41, 42 can define between them said lateral passage 51.
  • the lower part 42 can form the support for the spring 35 of the first valve 30 while the spring 45 of the second valve 40 can also cooperate with said lower part 42 as well as with the bottom of the valve body 12.
  • Another very important advantage of the present invention relates to the filling of the reservoir before the valve is used to dispense the product dose by dose. Indeed, as shown in Figure 4, this remphssage can be done through the first distribution valve 30 without damaging the valve.
  • the two valves 30 and 40 are actuated simultaneously, for example via an appropriate filling machine or head, and are lowered by a precise stroke to simultaneously open the outlet valve of the metering chamber 60 and the valve d inlet of the metering chamber 50.
  • the reservoir (not shown) is rehé at the outlet orifice of the first valve 30 and the product can therefore be supplied by this passage by entering the first valve 30 then in the metering chamber 20 then in the tank (not shown), without damaging the functional seals, as in the current valves.
  • the present invention therefore provides a valve which on the one hand ensures absolute metering precision, and which simplifies the filling of the reservoir, this being obtained by decoupling the distribution of the metering chamber and filling thereof after distribution.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
  • Filling Or Emptying Of Bunkers, Hoppers, And Tanks (AREA)
  • Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)
  • Reciprocating Pumps (AREA)

Abstract

The inventive control valve for fluid products is mounted on a reservoir containing said fluid products, comprises a valve body (10) and a metering chamber (20) and is provided with a first valve element (30) for dispensing products contained in the metering chamber (20) and a second valve element (40) for filling said metering chamber (20). The invention is characterised in that said first and second valve elements (30, 40) are actuated separately during the operation of the control valve.

Description

Valve de distribution de produits fluides et distributeur comportant une telle valve Valve for dispensing fluid products and dispenser comprising such a valve
La présente invention concerne une valve de distribution de produits fluides, plus particulièrement une valve doseuse, ainsi qu'un distributeur de produits fluides comportant une telle valve. Les valves doseuses sont bien connues dans l'état de la technique. Elles sont généralement destinées à distribuer des produits du type aérosol, dans lesquels le produit fluide est distribué au moyen d'un propulseur. Ces valves comportent généralement un corps de valve dans lequel coulisse une soupape entre une position de repos et une position de distribution. Le corps de valve définit une chambre de dosage, cette chambre de dosage étant vidée lors de l'actionnement de la soupape. Après actionnement, lorsque la soupape revient vers sa position de repos, la chambre de dosage est reliée avec le réservoir et elle se remplit, généralement par gravité, pour permettre un prochain actionnement de la valve. Ces valves connues peuvent présenter un certain nombre d'inconvénients. Ainsi, en position de repos de la valve, notamment lorsque celle-ci est en position droite, c'est-à-dire avec la valve disposée au-dessus du réservoir, le produit contenu dans la chambre de dosage risque de refluer en retour vers le réservoir, ce qui affecte la précision du dosage et ainsi que la reproductibilité de la dose. D'autre part, le remplissage du réservoir avec le produit fluide et le propulseur peut s'avérer compliqué et traumatisant pour la valve. Le document US-4 597 512 divulgue une valve ayant une soupape comportant deux parties, une partie supérieure et une partie inférieure, qui sont actionnées simultanément. La présente invention a pour but de fournir une valve de distribution de produit fluide qui ne reproduit pas les inconvénients susmentionnés. Plus particulièrement, la présente invention a pour but de fournir une telle valve qui assure une parfaite précision de dosage et ainsi qu'une parfaite reproductibilité de la dose à chaque actionnement de la valve. La présente invention a également pour but de fournir une telle valve qui soit simple et peu coûteuse à fabriquer, à assembler, à remplir et à utiliser. La présente invention a donc pour objet une valve de distribution de produits fluides destinée a être assemblée sur un réservoir contenant du produit fluide, ladite valve comportant un corps de valve comprenant une chambre de dosage, la valve comportant une première soupape destinée à distribuer le produit contenu dans la chambre de dosage, et une seconde soupape destinée à remplir ladite chambre de dosage. De préférence, lesdites première et seconde soupapes sont actionnées séparément lors de l'utilisation de la valve. Avantageusement, lesdites première et seconde soupapes sont actionnées ensemble pour le remplissage du réservoir avec le produit fluide. Avantageusement, ladite seconde soupape est disposée autour de ladite première soupape, ladite première soupape coulissant de manière étanche dans ladite seconde soupape. Avantageusement, chaque soupape coopère avec un élément élastique respectif, tel qu'un ressort, qui la sollicite vers sa position de repos. Avantageusement, les moyens d' actionnement de la première soupape sont différents des moyens d' actionnement de la seconde soupape. Avantageusement, ladite seconde soupape définit avec le corps de valve un clapet d'entrée pour la chambre de dosage, ladite seconde soupape étant déplaçable par rapport au corps de valve entre une position de fermeture et une position d'ouverture dudit clapet d'entrée. Avantageusement, ledit clapet est formé par un passage latéral réalisé dans une paroi de la seconde soupape, ledit passage étant fermé en position de fermeture du clapet d'entrée et ouvert en position d'ouverture du clapet d'entrée. Avantageusement, ladite première soupape définit avec ladite seconde soupape un clapet de sortie pour la chambre de dosage, ladite première soupape étant déplaçable par rapport à ladite seconde soupape entre une position de fermeture et une position d'ouverture dudit clapet de sortie. Avantageusement, ledit clapet de sortie est formé par un passage latéral réalisé dans ladite première soupape, ledit passage étant fermé en position de fermeture du clapet de sortie et ouvert en débouchant dans la chambre de dosage en position d'ouverture du clapet de sortie. Avantageusement, le corps de valve est réalisé en deux parties fixées l'une sur l'autre, notamment par encliquetage. Avantageusement, en position de repos de la valve, la chambre de dosage est fermée hermétiquement vis-à-vis du réservoir et de l'extérieur. La présente invention a également pour objet un dispositif de distribution de produits fluides comportant un réservoir contenant du produit fluide et un propulseur, ainsi qu'une valve telle que décrite ci-dessus. Avantageusement, ledit réservoir est rempli au moyen d'une machine de remplissage qui actionne simultanément les première et seconde soupapes. D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement au cours de la description détaillée suivante d'un mode de réalisation avantageux de celle-ci, faite en référence aux dessins joints, donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, et sur lesquels : la figure 1 est une vue schématique en section transversale d'une valve selon un mode de reahsation avantageux de la présente invention, en position de repos ; la figure 2 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 1, en position de distribution ; la figure 3 est une vue similaire à celles des figures 1 et 2, en position de remplissage de la chambre de dosage ; et la figure 4 est une vue similaire à celles des figures 1 à 3, en position de remplissage du réservoir. En référence aux figures, la valve comporte un corps de valve 10 définissant une chambre de dosage 20. Le corps de valve 10 peut être réalisé en deux parties, une partie dite supérieure 11 qui comprend la chambre de dosageThe present invention relates to a valve for dispensing fluid products, more particularly a metering valve, as well as a dispenser for fluid products comprising such a valve. Dosing valves are well known in the state of the art. They are generally intended to distribute products of the aerosol type, in which the fluid product is distributed by means of a propellant. These valves generally comprise a valve body in which a valve slides between a rest position and a dispensing position. The valve body defines a metering chamber, this metering chamber being emptied upon actuation of the valve. After actuation, when the valve returns to its rest position, the metering chamber is connected with the reservoir and it fills, generally by gravity, to allow a next actuation of the valve. These known valves can have a number of drawbacks. Thus, in the rest position of the valve, in particular when the latter is in the straight position, that is to say with the valve placed above the reservoir, the product contained in the metering chamber risks backing up. to the reservoir, which affects the accuracy of the dosage and the reproducibility of the dose. On the other hand, filling the reservoir with the fluid and the propellant can be complicated and traumatic for the valve. Document US-4,597,512 discloses a valve having a valve having two parts, an upper part and a lower part, which are actuated simultaneously. The object of the present invention is to provide a valve for dispensing a fluid product which does not have the abovementioned drawbacks. More particularly, the present invention aims to provide such a valve which ensures perfect dosing precision and thus perfect reproducibility of the dose on each actuation of the valve. The present invention also aims to provide such a valve which is simple and inexpensive to manufacture, assemble, fill and use. The present invention therefore relates to a valve for dispensing fluid products intended to be assembled on a reservoir containing fluid product, said valve comprising a valve body comprising a metering chamber, the valve comprising a first valve intended to dispense the product contained in the metering chamber, and a second valve for filling said metering chamber. Preferably, said first and second valves are actuated separately when using the valve. Advantageously, said first and second valves are actuated together for filling the reservoir with the fluid product. Advantageously, said second valve is arranged around said first valve, said first valve sliding in leaktight manner in said second valve. Advantageously, each valve cooperates with a respective elastic element, such as a spring, which urges it towards its rest position. Advantageously, the means for actuating the first valve are different from the means for actuating the second valve. Advantageously, said second valve defines with the valve body an inlet valve for the metering chamber, said second valve being movable relative to the valve body between a closed position and an open position of said inlet valve. Advantageously, said valve is formed by a lateral passage formed in a wall of the second valve, said passage being closed in the closed position of the inlet valve and open in the open position of the inlet valve. Advantageously, said first valve defines with said second valve an outlet valve for the metering chamber, said first valve being movable relative to said second valve between a closed position and an open position of said outlet valve. Advantageously, said outlet valve is formed by a lateral passage formed in said first valve, said passage being closed in the closed position of the outlet valve and open by opening into the metering chamber in the open position of the outlet valve. Advantageously, the valve body is made in two parts fixed to one another, in particular by snap-fastening. Advantageously, in the valve rest position, the metering chamber is hermetically closed with respect to the reservoir and from the outside. The present invention also relates to a device for dispensing fluid products comprising a reservoir containing fluid product and a propellant, as well as a valve as described above. Advantageously, said tank is filled by means of a filling machine which simultaneously actuates the first and second valves. Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly during the following detailed description of an advantageous embodiment thereof, given with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of nonlimiting examples, and on which: Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a valve according to an advantageous mode of reahsation of the present invention, in the rest position; Figure 2 is a view similar to that of Figure 1, in the dispensing position; Figure 3 is a view similar to those of Figures 1 and 2, in the filling position of the metering chamber; and Figure 4 is a view similar to those of Figures 1 to 3, in the tank filling position. With reference to the figures, the valve comprises a valve body 10 defining a metering chamber 20. The valve body 10 can be made in two parts, a so-called upper part 11 which comprises the metering chamber
20 et sur laquelle est fixée de manière étanche, notamment par encliquetage, une partie basse ou inférieure 12. Cette partie basse 12 (qui sur les figures, apparaît comme étant la partie supérieure, puisque la valve est représentée en position d'utilisation inversée), peut être réalisée d'une pièce monobloc avec une bague 13, dite bague fin de bidon, et qui permet d'une part de limiter le volume mort et de distribuer donc un maximum de produit contenu dans le réservoir, et d'autre part de limiter le contact entre le produit et le joint interposé entre le corps de valve et l'élément de fixation. Cet élément de fixation 70 peut être quelconque et est utilisé pour fixer la valve sur le col d'un réservoir (non représenté), de manière connue. Cet élément de fixation 70 peut notamment être une capsule à sertir, à visser ou à encliqueter, ou similaire. Selon l'invention, la valve comporte une première soupape 30 et une seconde soupape 40. La première soupape 30 est destinée à distribuer le produit contenu dans la chambre de dosage 20 et la seconde soupape 40 est destinée à remplir cette chambre de dosage 20, à partir du réservoir (non représenté). La présente invention permet donc de découpler l'expulsion de la dose et le remplissage de la chambre de dosage, contrairement à une valve classique, dans laquelle le remplissage de la chambre de dosage se fait lors du retour de la soupape de sa position de distribution vers sa position de repos. Lesdites première et seconde soupapes 30, 40 sont actionnées séparément lors de l'utilisation de la valve. En d'autres mots, la distribution du produit, réalisée au moyen de la première soupape 30, est obtenue en actionnant des moyens d' actionnement spécifiques, par exemple un poussoir monté sur l'extrémité de sortie de la première soupape 30, et déplaçable axialement, de manière connue. La seconde soupape 40, qui sert à remplir la chambre de dosage 20 après expulsion de la dose précédente, est quant à elle avantageusement actionnée au moyen d'un système d' actionnement distinct du système d'actionnement de la première soupape 30. Par exemple, un système d'actionnement latéral peut être envisagé, pour éviter tout risque d'actionnement simultané des deux soupapes. Avantageusement, la seconde soupape 40 est disposée autour de la première soupape 30, laquelle coulisse de manière étanche dans ladite seconde soupape 40. Avantageusement, un joint d'étanchéité 80 est prévu entre les deux soupapes 30 et 40, assurant un coulissement étanche en toutes positions de soupapes. Un autre joint d'étanchéité 81 peut être prévu entre les deux soupapes pour garantir l'étanchéité en position de repos de la première soupape 30. Un avantage particulier de la présente invention est qu'en position de repos de la valve, la chambre de dosage 20 est complètement et hermétiquement isolée de l'extérieur et du réservoir, de sorte qu'il n'y a aucun risque de perte de dose, ce qui garantit une précision de dosage absolue ainsi qu'une reproductibilité totale à chaque actionnement, même après un long stockage. D'autre part, le fait que le remplissage de la chambre de dosage soit indépendant de la course d'actionnement ou de retour de la première soupape de distribution20 and to which is fixed in a leaktight manner, in particular by snap-fastening, a lower or lower part 12. This lower part 12 (which in the figures appears to be the upper part, since the valve is shown in the reverse use position) , can be made of a single piece with a ring 13, called the end of the canister ring, which allows on the one hand to limit the dead volume and therefore distribute a maximum of product contained in the tank, and on the other apart from limiting the contact between the product and the seal interposed between the valve body and the fixing element. This fixing element 70 can be any and is used to fix the valve on the neck of a tank (not shown), in known manner. This fastening element 70 may in particular be a crimp, screw or snap-on capsule, or the like. According to the invention, the valve comprises a first valve 30 and a second valve 40. The first valve 30 is intended to dispense the product contained in the metering chamber 20 and the second valve 40 is intended to fill this metering chamber 20, from the tank (not shown). The present invention therefore makes it possible to decouple the expulsion of the dose and the filling of the metering chamber, unlike a conventional valve, in which the filling of the metering chamber takes place when the valve returns from its dispensing position. towards its rest position. Said first and second valves 30, 40 are actuated separately when the valve is used. In other words, the distribution of the product, carried out by means of the first valve 30, is obtained by actuating specific actuation means, for example a pusher mounted on the outlet end of the first valve 30, and movable axially, in a known manner. The second valve 40, which is used to fill the metering chamber 20 after expulsion of the previous dose, is advantageously actuated by means of an actuation system distinct from the actuation system of the first valve 30. For example , a lateral actuation system can be envisaged, to avoid any risk of simultaneous actuation of the two valves. Advantageously, the second valve 40 is arranged around the first valve 30, which slides in leaktight manner in said second valve 40. Advantageously, a seal 80 is provided between the two valves 30 and 40, ensuring a tight sliding in all valve positions. Another seal 81 can be provided between the two valves to guarantee the sealing in the rest position of the first valve 30. A particular advantage of the present invention is that in the rest position of the valve, the dosage 20 is completely and tightly isolated from the outside and from the tank, so that there is no risk of dose loss, which guarantees absolute dosing precision as well as total reproducibility at each actuation, even after long storage. On the other hand, the fact that the filling of the metering chamber is independent of the actuation or return stroke of the first dispensing valve
30 permet d'optimiser ce remplissage pour assurer une bonne homogénéité du produit et du propulseur contenu dans la chambre de dosage après son remplissage. Il est à noter que la chambre de dosage peut être remplie juste après l'expulsion de la dose précédente. En variante, la chambre peut être remplie juste avant l'expulsion de la dose, ce qui permet de ne pas garder la dose pendant trop longtemps dans la chambre. Avantageusement, chaque soupape 30, 40 coopère directement ou indirectement, avec un élément élastique respectif 35, 45, tel qu'un ressort, qui la sollicite vers sa position de repos respective. Cette position de repos est représentée sur la figure 1. Comme visible sur les figures, la seconde soupape 40 est avantageusement disposée autour de la première soupape 30, cette première soupape 30 coulissant de manière étanche à l'intérieur de la seconde soupape 40. Les figures 1 et 2 montrent un cycle d'actionnement de distribution de la valve. Pour distribuer le contenu de la chambre de dosage 20, la première soupape 30 est donc déplacée axialement à l'intérieur de la seconde soupape 40 jusqu'à ce qu'un passage latéral 61, prévu dans ladite première soupape 30, débouche dans ladite chambre de dosage 20, ce qui provoque l'expulsion de la dose. La seconde soupape 40 reste immobile pendant cette distribution du produit. La première soupape 30 définit donc par rapport à la seconde soupape 40 un clapet de sortie 60 de la chambre de dosage 20. Pendant tout le cycle d'actionnement de la première soupape 30, la chambre de dosage reste fermée et complètement isolée par rapport au réservoir comme visible sur les figures 1 et 2. La figure 3 montre le remplissage de la chambre de dosage 20 après un actionnement précédent. Pour ce faire, la seconde soupape 40 est déplacée axialement à l'intérieur du corps de valve 10 notamment à l'intérieur de la partie supérieure de corps de valve 11, jusqu'à ce qu'un passage latéral 51 prévu dans une paroi 41 de ladite seconde soupape 40 relie le réservoir (non représenté) avec la chambre de dosage 20. La seconde soupape 40 définit donc un clapet d'entrée de chambre de dosage 50 avec le corps de valve 10. Pendant le déplacement de la seconde soupape 40 vers sa position de remphssage, la première soupape 30 reste toujours en position de fermeture du clapet de sortie 60 de la chambre de dosage 20, de sorte qu'il n'y aucun risque de déperdition de produit pendant cette phase de remplissage. La première soupape 30 est entraînée axialement par la seconde soupape 40 lors de ce cycle de remplissage de la chambre de dosage 20, mais comme il n'y a aucun déplacement relatif entre les deux soupapes, le clapet de sortie 60 reste fermé. Avantageusement, la seconde soupape 40 peut être réalisée en deux parties fixées l'une à l'autre, une partie supérieure 41 formant une paroi de la chambre de dosage 20, et une partie inférieure 42 fixée à ladite première partie 41. Ces deux parties 41, 42 peuvent définir entre elles ledit passage latéral 51. La partie inférieure 42 peut former le support pour le ressort 35 de la première soupape 30 alors que le ressort 45 de la seconde soupape 40 peut également coopérer avec ladite partie inférieure 42 ainsi qu'avec le fond du corps de valve 12. Un autre avantage très important de la présente invention concerne le remphssage du réservoir avant que la valve ne soit utilisée pour distribuer le produit dose par dose. En effet, comme représenté sur la figure 4, ce remphssage peut se faire à travers la première soupape de distribution 30 sans abîmer la valve. Pour se faire, les deux soupapes 30 et 40 sont actionnées simultanément, par exemple via une machine ou tête de remplissage appropriée, et sont descendues d'une course précise pour simultanément ouvrir le clapet de sortie de la chambre de dosage 60 et le clapet d'entrée de la chambre de dosage 50. De cette manière, le réservoir (non représenté) est rehé à l'orifice de sortie de la première soupape 30 et le produit peut donc être alimenté par ce passage en pénétrant dans la première soupape 30 puis dans la chambre de dosage 20 puis dans le réservoir (non représenté), sans endommager les joints fonctionnels, comme dans les valves actuelles. La présente invention fournit donc une valve qui d'une part assure une précision de dosage absolue, et qui simplifie le remplissage du réservoir, ceci étant obtenu en découplant la distribution de la chambre de dosage et le remplissage de celle-ci après distribution. Bien que la présente invention ait été décrite en référence à un mode de réalisation avantageux de celle-ci, il est entendu qu'elle n'est pas limitée par ce mode de réalisation. Au contraire, un homme du métier peut y apporter toutes modifications utiles sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention telle que défini dans les revendications annexées. 30 optimizes this filling to ensure good homogeneity of the product and the propellant contained in the metering chamber after filling. It should be noted that the dosing chamber can be filled immediately after the expulsion of the previous dose. As a variant, the chamber can be filled just before expelling the dose, which makes it possible not to keep the dose for too long in the chamber. Advantageously, each valve 30, 40 cooperates directly or indirectly, with a respective elastic element 35, 45, such as a spring, which urges it towards its respective rest position. This rest position is shown in FIG. 1. As can be seen in the figures, the second valve 40 is advantageously arranged around the first valve 30, this first valve 30 sliding in leaktight manner inside the second valve 40. The Figures 1 and 2 show a valve distribution actuation cycle. To dispense the contents of the metering chamber 20, the first valve 30 is therefore moved axially inside the second valve 40 until a lateral passage 61, provided in said first valve 30, opens into said chamber 20, which causes the dose to be expelled. The second valve 40 remains stationary during this distribution of the product. The first valve 30 therefore defines, relative to the second valve 40, an outlet valve 60 of the metering chamber 20. During the entire actuation cycle of the first valve 30, the metering chamber remains closed and completely isolated from the reservoir as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Figure 3 shows the filling of the metering chamber 20 after a previous actuation. To do this, the second valve 40 is moved axially inside the valve body 10 in particular inside the upper part of the valve body 11, until a lateral passage 51 provided in a wall 41 of said second valve 40 connects the reservoir (not shown) with the metering chamber 20. The second valve 40 therefore defines a metering chamber inlet valve 50 with the valve body 10. During the movement of the second valve 40 towards its reheating position, the first valve 30 always remains in the closed position of the outlet valve 60 of the metering chamber 20, so that there is no risk of loss of product during this filling phase. The first valve 30 is driven axially by the second valve 40 during this filling cycle of the metering chamber 20, but since there is no relative movement between the two valves, the outlet valve 60 remains closed. Advantageously, the second valve 40 can be made in two parts fixed to one another, an upper part 41 forming a wall of the metering chamber 20, and a lower part 42 fixed to said first part 41. These two parts 41, 42 can define between them said lateral passage 51. The lower part 42 can form the support for the spring 35 of the first valve 30 while the spring 45 of the second valve 40 can also cooperate with said lower part 42 as well as with the bottom of the valve body 12. Another very important advantage of the present invention relates to the filling of the reservoir before the valve is used to dispense the product dose by dose. Indeed, as shown in Figure 4, this remphssage can be done through the first distribution valve 30 without damaging the valve. To do this, the two valves 30 and 40 are actuated simultaneously, for example via an appropriate filling machine or head, and are lowered by a precise stroke to simultaneously open the outlet valve of the metering chamber 60 and the valve d inlet of the metering chamber 50. In this way, the reservoir (not shown) is rehé at the outlet orifice of the first valve 30 and the product can therefore be supplied by this passage by entering the first valve 30 then in the metering chamber 20 then in the tank (not shown), without damaging the functional seals, as in the current valves. The present invention therefore provides a valve which on the one hand ensures absolute metering precision, and which simplifies the filling of the reservoir, this being obtained by decoupling the distribution of the metering chamber and filling thereof after distribution. Although the present invention has been described with reference to an advantageous embodiment thereof, it is understood that it is not limited by this embodiment. On the contrary, a person skilled in the art can make any useful modifications to it without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

Revendications claims
1.- Valve de distribution de produits fluides destinée a être assemblée sur un réservoir contenant du produit fluide, ladite valve comportant un corps de valve (10) comprenant une chambre de dosage (20), caractérisée en ce que la valve comporte une première soupape (30) destinée à distribuer le produit contenu dans la chambre de dosage (20), et une seconde soupape (40) destinée à remplir ladite chambre de dosage (20) et caractérisé en ce que lesdites première et seconde soupapes (30, 40) sont actionnées séparément lors de l'utilisation de la valve. 1.- valve for distributing fluid products intended to be assembled on a reservoir containing fluid product, said valve comprising a valve body (10) comprising a metering chamber (20), characterized in that the valve comprises a first valve (30) intended to dispense the product contained in the metering chamber (20), and a second valve (40) intended to fill said metering chamber (20) and characterized in that said first and second valves (30, 40) are operated separately when using the valve.
2.- Valve selon le revendication 1 ou 2, dans laquelle lesdites première et seconde soupapes (30, 40) sont actionnées ensemble pour le remphssage du réservoir avec le produit fluide. 2.- Valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said first and second valves (30, 40) are actuated together for the remphssage of the reservoir with the fluid.
3.- Valve selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans laquelle ladite seconde soupape (40) est disposée autour de ladite première soupape (30), ladite première soupape (30) coulissant de manière étanche dans ladite seconde soupape (40). 3. A valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said second valve (40) is arranged around said first valve (30), said first valve (30) sliding in leaktight manner in said second valve (40).
4.- Valve selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle chaque soupape (30, 40) coopère avec un élément élastique respectif (35, 45), tel qu'un ressort, qui la sollicite vers sa position de repos. 4. Valve according to any one of the preceding claims, in which each valve (30, 40) cooperates with a respective elastic element (35, 45), such as a spring, which urges it towards its rest position.
5.- Valve selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle les moyens d'actionnement de la première soupape (30) sont différents des moyens d'actionnement de la seconde soupape (40). 5. Valve according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the means for actuating the first valve (30) are different from the means for actuating the second valve (40).
6.- Valve selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle ladite seconde soupape (40) définit avec le corps de valve (10) un clapet d'entrée (50) pour la chambre de dosage (20), ladite seconde soupape (40) étant déplaçable par rapport au corps de valve (10) entre une position de fermeture et une position d'ouverture dudit clapet d'entrée (50). 6. Valve according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said second valve (40) defines with the valve body (10) an inlet valve (50) for the metering chamber (20), said second valve (40) being movable relative to the valve body (10) between a closed position and an open position of said inlet valve (50).
7.- Valve selon la revendication 6, dans laquelle ledit clapet (50) est formé par un passage latéral (51) réalisé dans une paroi (41) de la seconde soupape (40), ledit passage (51) étant fermé en position de fermeture du clapet d'entrée (50) et ouvert en position d'ouverture du clapet d'entrée (50). 7. A valve according to claim 6, wherein said valve (50) is formed by a lateral passage (51) formed in a wall (41) of the second valve (40), said passage (51) being closed in the position of closing of inlet valve (50) and open in the open position of the inlet valve (50).
8.- Valve selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle ladite première soupape (30) définit avec ladite seconde soupape (40) un clapet de sortie pour la chambre de dosage (20), ladite première soupape (30) étant déplaçable par rapport à ladite seconde soupape (40) entre une position de fermeture et une position d'ouverture dudit clapet de sortie (60). 8. A valve according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first valve (30) defines with said second valve (40) an outlet valve for the metering chamber (20), said first valve (30) being movable with respect to said second valve (40) between a closed position and an open position of said outlet valve (60).
9.- Valve selon la revendication 8, dans laquelle ledit clapet de sortie (60) est formé par un passage latéral (61) réalisé dans ladite première soupape (30), ledit passage (61) étant fermé en position de fermeture du clapet de sortie (60) et ouvert en débouchant dans la chambre de dosage9. Valve according to claim 8, in which said outlet valve (60) is formed by a lateral passage (61) produced in said first valve (30), said passage (61) being closed in the closed position of the valve. outlet (60) and open by opening into the dosing chamber
(20) en position d'ouverture du clapet de sortie (60). (20) in the open position of the outlet valve (60).
10.- Valve selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle le corps de valve (10) est réalisé en deux parties (11, 12) fixées l'une sur l'autre, notamment par enchquetage. 10.- Valve according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the valve body (10) is made in two parts (11, 12) fixed to one another, in particular by bundling.
11.- Valve selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle, en position de repos de la valve, la chambre de dosage (20) est fermée hermétiquement vis-à-vis du réservoir et de l'extérieur. 11. Valve according to any one of the preceding claims, in which, in the valve rest position, the metering chamber (20) is hermetically closed with respect to the reservoir and to the outside.
12.- Dispositif de distribution de produits fluides, comportant un réservoir contenant du produit fluide et un propulseur, caractérisé en ce que ledit dispositif comporte une valve selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes. 12. A device for dispensing fluid products, comprising a reservoir containing fluid product and a propellant, characterized in that said device comprises a valve according to any one of the preceding claims.
13.- Dispositif selon la revendication 12, dans lequel ledit réservoir est rempli au moyen d'une machine de remplissage qui actionne simultanément les première et seconde soupapes (30, 40). 13.- Device according to claim 12, wherein said tank is filled by means of a filling machine which simultaneously actuates the first and second valves (30, 40).
EP04767546A 2003-07-02 2004-07-01 Control valve for a fluid product dispenser and a fluid product dispenser comprising such a valve Active EP1651538B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0308065A FR2856990A1 (en) 2003-07-02 2003-07-02 Fluid product e.g. aerosol, distributing valve e.g. dosing valve, has valve stem with dosing chamber sealed from container and outside, in rest position of valve, and two valves activated together for filling container
PCT/FR2004/001704 WO2005012137A2 (en) 2003-07-02 2004-07-01 Control valve for a fluid product dispenser and a fluid product dispenser comprising such a valve

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1651538A2 true EP1651538A2 (en) 2006-05-03
EP1651538B1 EP1651538B1 (en) 2006-12-27

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EP04767546A Active EP1651538B1 (en) 2003-07-02 2004-07-01 Control valve for a fluid product dispenser and a fluid product dispenser comprising such a valve

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US (1) US20060243753A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1651538B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2007516133A (en)
CN (1) CN1852842A (en)
DE (1) DE602004003951T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2856990A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2005012137A2 (en)

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FR2918044B1 (en) * 2007-06-28 2012-01-20 Valois Sas RING FOR FLUID PRODUCT DISPENSING VALVE.
AU2007358183A1 (en) * 2007-08-24 2009-03-05 Cipla Limited A valve for an aerosol device
FR2924101B1 (en) * 2007-11-26 2009-12-04 Valois Sas IMPROVED VALVE
WO2012073361A1 (en) * 2010-12-02 2012-06-07 東洋エアゾール工業株式会社 Multiple liquid dispensing aerosol device
FR2996827B1 (en) * 2012-10-12 2014-10-31 Rexam Healthcare La Verpillier DOSING VALVE FOR DISTRIBUTING AN AEROSOL
FR2993250B1 (en) 2012-10-12 2014-08-01 Rexam Healthcare La Verpillier DOSING VALVE FOR DISTRIBUTING AN AEROSOL
FR3019535B1 (en) * 2014-04-02 2016-03-25 Rexam Healthcare La Verpillier AEROSOL DISTRIBUTION ASSEMBLY HAVING AN IMPROVED CONTACT AREA WITH A TANK COLLAR

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE602004003951T2 (en) 2007-10-11
FR2856990A1 (en) 2005-01-07
CN1852842A (en) 2006-10-25
JP2007516133A (en) 2007-06-21
DE602004003951D1 (en) 2007-02-08
EP1651538B1 (en) 2006-12-27
WO2005012137A3 (en) 2005-04-21
WO2005012137A2 (en) 2005-02-10
US20060243753A1 (en) 2006-11-02

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