EP3615224B1 - Head for dispensing a fluid product - Google Patents

Head for dispensing a fluid product Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3615224B1
EP3615224B1 EP18726519.4A EP18726519A EP3615224B1 EP 3615224 B1 EP3615224 B1 EP 3615224B1 EP 18726519 A EP18726519 A EP 18726519A EP 3615224 B1 EP3615224 B1 EP 3615224B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
filter
spray
dispenser head
suction chamber
nozzle
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.)
Active
Application number
EP18726519.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3615224A1 (en
Inventor
stéphane Beranger
Frédéric Duquet
Julien SAGLIET
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
Aptar France 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
Priority claimed from FR1753689A external-priority patent/FR3065653B1/en
Priority claimed from FR1754003A external-priority patent/FR3065890B1/en
Application filed by Aptar France SAS filed Critical Aptar France SAS
Publication of EP3615224A1 publication Critical patent/EP3615224A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3615224B1 publication Critical patent/EP3615224B1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/14—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with multiple outlet openings; with strainers in or outside the outlet opening
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
    • B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
    • B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
    • B05B11/1097—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle with means for sucking back the liquid or other fluent material in the nozzle after a dispensing stroke
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
    • B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
    • B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
    • B05B11/1001—Piston pumps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
    • B05B15/40—Filters located upstream of the spraying outlets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
    • B05B15/50—Arrangements for cleaning; Arrangements for preventing deposits, drying-out or blockage; Arrangements for detecting improper discharge caused by the presence of foreign matter
    • B05B15/52—Arrangements for cleaning; Arrangements for preventing deposits, drying-out or blockage; Arrangements for detecting improper discharge caused by the presence of foreign matter for removal of clogging particles
    • B05B15/531—Arrangements for cleaning; Arrangements for preventing deposits, drying-out or blockage; Arrangements for detecting improper discharge caused by the presence of foreign matter for removal of clogging particles using backflow

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a fluid product dispensing head intended to be associated with a dispensing member such as a pump or a valve.
  • the head can be in the form of a pusher and define a bearing surface on which the user can exert a pushing force to actuate the dispensing member.
  • the dispensing head can be integrated into, or mounted on, the dispensing member. This type of fluid product dispenser head is frequently used in the fields of perfumery, cosmetics or even pharmacy.
  • a nozzle comprising a spray wall pierced with several spray holes of substantially or perfectly identical diameter, of the order of 1 to 100 ⁇ m. Such a spray wall would generate a spray whose droplet size is relatively homogeneous.
  • WO2015194962 describes several embodiments of a nozzle comprising a spray wall pierced with several holes spray, as well as one or more filters arranged upstream of the spray wall.
  • the document FR2915470 discloses a push button and dispenser comprising a front wall for forming an aerosol composed of individual fine droplets.
  • the clogging or clogging of the nozzle was due to fine particles in suspension in the fluid or coming from the manufacture, assembly or operation of the distribution member (pump). It was only after several series of tests that the cause of this clogging or clogging of the nozzle was identified: it would seem to come from the drying out or the strong increase in viscosity of the fluid product at the level of the nozzle itself. Thus, solid or pasty residues would form in the nozzle and clog the spray wall and / or the filter (s), which would lead to the deterioration, or even the stopping, of the spraying.
  • the present invention proposes that the head comprises a suction chamber having a variable volume, so that the volume of the suction chamber decreases when pressure is exerted on the bearing surface and increases when the pressure is released on the bearing surface.
  • the suction chamber generates a suction or “sniffing” which makes it possible to remove the fluid product from the spray wall and / or from the filter (s) by making the fluid product rise in the suction chamber. It suffices for this to adapt the variation in volume of the suction chamber to the volume defined by the spray wall alone or from the spray wall to the most upstream filter.
  • the spray holes have a diameter of the order of 1 to 100 ⁇ m, advantageously of the order of 5 to 30 ⁇ m, and preferably of the order of 10 to 20 ⁇ m.
  • the distribution head further comprises at least one filter upstream of the spray wall.
  • the filter may be in the form of a filter plate comprising filter holes which are more numerous than the spray holes, but having a smaller diameter than those of the spray holes.
  • the filter can also be in the form of a filter block forming an array of open cavities.
  • a single nozzle can include both one or more filter plate (s) and one or more filter block (s).
  • the variation in volume of the suction chamber is advantageously greater than the cumulative volume of the spray holes, when there is no filter. Otherwise, an intermediate space is formed between the spray wall and the filter, the variation in volume of the suction chamber then advantageously being greater than the cumulative volume of the spray holes, of the intermediate space and of the filter holes and / or the network of open cavities.
  • the suction chamber may comprise a piston or an elastically deformable wall.
  • the spirit of the invention lies in the fact of emptying the multiple-hole nozzle of the fluid product which it contains after the spraying phase.
  • the suction chamber integrated into the pusher creates a vacuum just after the spraying phase which has the effect of sucking the fluid product contained in the nozzle and storing it in the suction chamber until the next spraying phase.
  • the nozzle is assuredly empty of any fluid product, so that there is no longer any risk of clogging or clogging by drying, formation of solid residues or increase in viscosity.
  • the dispensing head T comprises three essential constituent parts, namely a head body 1 and a nozzle 2 and a piston 3. These parts can be produced by injection molding of plastic material.
  • the head body 1 is preferably made in one piece: it can however be made from several parts assembled together.
  • the head body 1 comprises a substantially cylindrical peripheral skirt 10 which is closed at its upper end by a plate 16.
  • the head body 1 internally defines an inlet well 11 which is open at the bottom and closed at its upper end by the plate 16.
  • the head body 1 also defines a supply duct 13 which connects the inlet well 11 to a mounting housing 12, as can be seen in the figures. figures 1 and 3 .
  • the axial mounting housing 12 is generally cylindrical in configuration, thereby defining an inner wall which is substantially cylindrical.
  • the supply duct 13 opens into the mounting housing 2 in a centered manner.
  • the internal wall of the mounting housing 12 has hooking profiles allowing better maintenance of the nozzle 2.
  • the head body 1 also defines a sliding barrel 14 which extends downwards in a concentric manner. inlet well 11. This sliding barrel is internally cylindrical and has a retaining profile on its outer wall, for example in the form of a small shoulder towards the outside.
  • the head body 1 can be engaged in a covering capsule 4 comprising an upper bearing surface 41 for a finger and a lateral envelope 42 forming a lateral opening 43 for the passage of the nozzle 2.
  • a covering capsule 4 comprising an upper bearing surface 41 for a finger and a lateral envelope 42 forming a lateral opening 43 for the passage of the nozzle 2.
  • the bearing surface is formed by the plate 16 of the head body 1.
  • the nozzle 2 has a substantially conventional overall configuration in the form of a cup which is open at one end and closed at its opposite end by a spray wall D, advantageously in the form of a small plate, at the level of which are formed several holes or spray orifices DO.
  • the nozzle 2 comprises a nozzle body 20 of substantially cylindrical overall shape which preferably has an axial symmetry of revolution. In other words, the nozzle 2 does not need to be angularly oriented before it is presented in front of the entrance to the axial mounting housing 12.
  • the nozzle body 20 forms an external mounting wall 21 which is advantageously provided with hooking reliefs able to cooperate with the hooking profiles of the mounting housing 12.
  • the nozzle 2 can be engaged axially without particular orientation in the axial mounting housing 12.
  • the nozzle body 20 internally forms a chamber delimited by an internal wall 23 forming several steps of decreasing diameters.
  • the nozzle body 20 forms a planar annular land 25 defining a central opening 26.
  • the spray wall D is integral with the nozzle body 20, advantageously at the level of the central opening 26.
  • the spray wall D is fixed to the nozzle body 20 by any means, such as overmolding, bi-injection, one-piece mono-material molding, snap-fitting, crimping, expansion, press-fitting, etc.
  • the spray wall D can be a one-piece mono-material plate, an assembly of several parts or else a multilayer product, for example a laminate. It can be made of metal, plastic, ceramic, glass or a combination thereof. More generally, any material capable of being pierced with small holes or orifices can be used.
  • the thickness of the spray wall D, at the level where the holes DO are formed, is of the order of 1 to 100 ⁇ m.
  • the number of holes DO is of the order of 20 to 500.
  • the diameter of the spray wall D, at the level where the holes DO are formed is of the order of 0.5 to 5 mm.
  • the holes DO are drilled in the spray wall D when it is already integral with the body of the sprayer. nozzle 20.
  • the nozzle body 20 can be used as a device for manipulating the spray wall D for its drilling operation, which can for example be carried out by laser.
  • the spray wall D is a very small part, and therefore difficult to handle.
  • the drilling of the holes DO with the spray wall D pre-assembled on the nozzle body 20 is a method which can be implemented regardless of the size of the holes DO, i.e. regardless of the size of the holes. makes that the distributor head incorporates a suction chamber.
  • the nozzle 2 also comprises two filters F1 and F2 arranged upstream of the spray wall D.
  • the filter F1 is mounted on a step of the internal wall 23 behind the spray wall D by defining between them a first intermediate space E1.
  • the filter F1 is a plate substantially similar to the spray wall D with filter holes FO which are advantageously more numerous than the spray holes DO, but which advantageously have a smaller diameter than those of the spray holes DO. It can also be noted that the diameter of the filter plate F1 is greater than that of the spray wall D. Its thickness can be substantially the same as that of the spray wall D, or even slightly greater.
  • the filter F2 is also mounted on a step of the internal wall 23 upstream of the filter F1 by defining between them a second intermediate space E2.
  • the filter F2 is in the form of a block of porous material, advantageously rigid, such as Porex ®, which forms a network of open cavities, the average pore size of which may be of the order of 7 to 100 microns. .
  • the fluid product delivered by the pump P flows through the inlet well 11, the supply duct 13, passes through the filter F2, fills the second intermediate space E2, passes through the filter F1, fills the first intermediate space E1, and finally passes through the spray wall D to the outlet from which it is sprayed into fine droplets.
  • the figure 3c represents the volume of the fluid in the filter F1, namely VF1, the first intermediate space E1, namely VE1, and the spray wall D, namely VD.
  • the figure 4a shows a second embodiment for a nozzle 2 ', which can be implemented in the distributor head T instead of the nozzle 2.
  • This nozzle 2' comprises a spray wall D 'on which the nozzle body 20' has been overmolded.
  • the spray wall D ' also defines a series of small spray holes DO' of the order of 1 to 100 microns in diameter.
  • the nozzle 2 ′ comprises only a single filter F2 ′ which may be substantially identical to the filter F2, that is to say formed by a part or a block of porous material, advantageously rigid, such as Porex®, which forms a network of open cavities, the average pore size of which may be of the order of 7 to 100 microns.
  • the filter F2 ′ and the spray wall D define between them an intermediate space E1 ′.
  • the figure 4b is similar to figure 5c and shows the volume of the fluid in the intermediate space E1 ', namely VE1', and the spray wall D ', namely VD'.
  • the distributor head T incorporates a suction chamber 30 which is formed by the cooperation of the head body 1 with the piston 3.
  • a spring 33 which may be an elastically deformable ring.
  • the piston 3 is therefore biased away from the inlet well 11 while remaining integral with the sliding barrel 14 by virtue of the retaining profile of the barrel 14 which cooperates with a ring 32 of the piston 3 which is engaged around the barrel 14.
  • the piston 3 is at rest and on the figure 2b , the piston 3 is moved as far as possible towards the inlet well 11 by compressing the spring 33.
  • the piston also comprises a sleeve 35 which is engaged in the sliding barrel 14 by being connected at its lower end to the ring 32 and forming at its free upper end, a piston lip 34 which in leaktight sliding contact with the cylindrical inner wall of the sliding barrel 14.
  • the sleeve 35 also defines a central passage 31.
  • the sleeve 35 also defines a central passage 31.
  • piston 3 and the head body 1 define between them the suction chamber 30, the volume of which varies with the sliding movement of the piston 3.
  • the sleeve 35 is connected to the free end of an actuating rod P2 of a distribution member P, such as a pump or a valve.
  • the actuating rod P2 can be moved back and forth along the Y axis against an internal spring (not shown).
  • the stiffness of the spring 33 of the piston 3 is less than that of the internal spring of the distribution member P.
  • the actuating rod P2 is hollow so as to define a delivery duct in communication with a metering chamber. the distribution member P.
  • the central passage 31 of the piston 3 is located directly downstream of the outlet of the actuating rod P2, so that the fluid product delivered by the distribution member P passes through the suction chamber 30 to reach the entrance shaft 11.
  • the suction chamber 30 When the distributor head T is at rest ( figure 2a ), the suction chamber 30 has a maximum volume. When a user presses on the bearing surface of the head T, the suction chamber 30 will decrease in volume until it reaches a minimum ( figure 2b ). Then, the actuating rod P2 will be pushed in so as to distribute the fluid product through the head T and its nozzle 2 where it will be sprayed. As soon as the user releases his pressure on the bearing surface of the head T, the actuating rod P2 returns to its rest position under the action of the internal spring. The piston 3 will also move to also regain its rest position ( figure 2a ). In doing so, a vacuum is created in the suction chamber, due to its increase in volume.
  • This depression will generate a suction force at the level of the nozzle 2 which will move the fluid that it contains towards the suction chamber 30. It is thus possible to empty the spray holes DO, the filter (s) F1, F2, F2 'and the intermediate space (s) E1, E2, E1'.
  • the variation in volume of the suction chamber 30 can be adapted to the design of the nozzle to remove a sufficient volume of fluid. In nozzle 1, it is for example possible to evacuate the spray holes DO, the first space intermediate E1 and the filter holes FO, but not the second intermediate space E2, nor the filter F2. Thus, one would evacuate only the volume represented on the figure 3c .
  • a flexible dome 3 ' is mounted on the head body 1' in place of the plate 16 of the first embodiment.
  • This flexible dome 3 ′ comprises an anchoring ring 32 ′ which is mounted on a fixing flange 14 ′ of the head body 1 ′.
  • the covering cap 4 ′ forms a re-entrant flap 41 ′ which supports the anchoring ring 32 ′ on the head body 1 ′.
  • the anchoring ring 32 ′ is mounted in a fixed and sealed manner on the head body 1 ′.
  • the flexible dome 3 ' also comprises an elastically deformable actuating wall 34' which forms a bearing surface for a user's finger.
  • the suction chamber 30 ' is then formed between the head body 1' and this elastically deformable actuating wall 34 '. It is supplied with fluid by the inlet well 11 'and the outlet of the chamber is formed by the supply duct 13' which is connected to the nozzle 2.
  • nozzle 2 'of the figures 4a and 4b can be mounted instead of the nozzle 2 in the second embodiment of the suction chamber 30 '.
  • the present invention is thus based on the combination of a suction chamber with a nozzle with multiple micro-holes (20 to 500 holes of 1 to 100 microns), advantageously equipped with one or more filters.

Description

La présente invention concerne une tête de distribution de produit fluide destinée à être associée à un organe de distribution tel qu'une pompe ou une valve. La tête peut se présenter sous la forme d'un poussoir et définir une surface d'appui sur lequel l'utilisateur peut exercer une force de poussée pour actionner l'organe de distribution. La tête de distribution peut être intégrée à, ou montée sur, l'organe de distribution. Ce genre de tête de distribution de produit fluide est fréquemment utilisé dans les domaines de la parfumerie, de la cosmétique ou encore de la pharmacie.The present invention relates to a fluid product dispensing head intended to be associated with a dispensing member such as a pump or a valve. The head can be in the form of a pusher and define a bearing surface on which the user can exert a pushing force to actuate the dispensing member. The dispensing head can be integrated into, or mounted on, the dispensing member. This type of fluid product dispenser head is frequently used in the fields of perfumery, cosmetics or even pharmacy.

Une tête de distribution classique, par exemple du type poussoir, comprend :

  • un manchon de raccordement destiné à être raccordé à une sortie d'un organe de distribution, tel qu'une pompe,
  • un puits d'entrée dans le prolongement du manchon de raccordement,
  • un logement de montage axial dans lequel s'étend une broche, définissant une paroi latérale et une paroi frontale, et
  • un gicleur en forme de godet comprenant une paroi sensiblement cylindrique dont une extrémité est obturée par une paroi de pulvérisation formant un orifice de pulvérisation, le gicleur étant monté selon un axe X dans le logement de montage axial avec sa paroi cylindrique engagée autour de la broche et sa paroi de pulvérisation en butée axiale contre la paroi frontale de la broche.
A conventional dispensing head, for example of the pusher type, comprises:
  • a connecting sleeve intended to be connected to an outlet of a distribution member, such as a pump,
  • an inlet well in the extension of the connection sleeve,
  • an axial mounting housing in which extends a pin, defining a side wall and a front wall, and
  • a nozzle in the form of a cup comprising a substantially cylindrical wall, one end of which is closed by a spray wall forming a spray orifice, the nozzle being mounted along an X axis in the axial mounting housing with its cylindrical wall engaged around the spindle and its spray wall in axial abutment against the front wall of the spindle.

Dans le document FR2903328A1 , il est décrit plusieurs modes de réalisation d'un gicleur comprenant une paroi de pulvérisation percée de plusieurs trous de pulvérisation de diamètre sensiblement ou parfaitement identique, de l'ordre de 1 à 100 µm. Une telle paroi de pulvérisation génèrerait un spray dont la taille des gouttelettes est relativement homogène.In the document FR2903328A1 , several embodiments of a nozzle are described comprising a spray wall pierced with several spray holes of substantially or perfectly identical diameter, of the order of 1 to 100 μm. Such a spray wall would generate a spray whose droplet size is relatively homogeneous.

Le document WO2015194962 décrit plusieurs modes de réalisation d'un gicleur comprenant une paroi de pulvérisation percée de plusieurs trous de pulvérisation, ainsi qu'un ou plusieurs filtres disposés en amont de la paroi de pulvérisation.The document WO2015194962 describes several embodiments of a nozzle comprising a spray wall pierced with several holes spray, as well as one or more filters arranged upstream of the spray wall.

Le document FR2915470 décrit un bouton poussoir et distributeur comprenant une paroi frontale pour former d'un aérosol composé de fines gouttelettes individuelles.The document FR2915470 discloses a push button and dispenser comprising a front wall for forming an aerosol composed of individual fine droplets.

Un problème avec ce type de gicleur à micro-trous, et plus particulièrement lorsqu'il est équipé de filtre(s), est qu'il se bouche parfois, de sorte que la pulvérisation s'altère progressivement jusqu'à devenir même impossible. Dans un premier temps, on a pensé que le bouchage ou colmatage du gicleur était dû à des fines particules se trouvant en suspension dans le produit fluide ou provenant de la fabrication, du montage ou du fonctionnement de l'organe de distribution (pompe). Ce n'est qu'après plusieurs séries de tests que la cause de ce bouchage ou colmatage du gicleur a été cernée : il semblerait provenir du dessèchement ou de la forte augmentation de viscosité du produit fluide au niveau du gicleur lui-même. Ainsi, des résidus solides ou pâteux se formeraient dans le gicleur et colmateraient la paroi de pulvérisation et/ou le ou les filtre(s), ce qui conduirait à l'altération, voire l'arrêt, de la pulvérisation.A problem with this type of micro-hole nozzle, and more particularly when it is equipped with filter (s), is that it sometimes becomes clogged, so that the spraying gradually deteriorates until it becomes even impossible. Initially, it was thought that the clogging or clogging of the nozzle was due to fine particles in suspension in the fluid or coming from the manufacture, assembly or operation of the distribution member (pump). It was only after several series of tests that the cause of this clogging or clogging of the nozzle was identified: it would seem to come from the drying out or the strong increase in viscosity of the fluid product at the level of the nozzle itself. Thus, solid or pasty residues would form in the nozzle and clog the spray wall and / or the filter (s), which would lead to the deterioration, or even the stopping, of the spraying.

Pour résoudre ce problème de bouchage ou colmatage des gicleurs à micro-trous, et notamment lorsqu'ils sont équipés de filtre(s), la présente invention propose que la tête comprenne une chambre d'aspiration ayant un volume variable, de telle sorte que le volume de la chambre d'aspiration décroît lorsque l'on exerce une pression sur la surface d'appui et croît lorsque l'on relâche la pression sur la surface d'appui. Ainsi, la chambre d'aspiration génère une aspiration ou « reniflage » qui permet de retirer le produit fluide de la paroi de pulvérisation et/ou du ou des filtre(s) en faisant remonter le produit fluide dans la chambre d'aspiration. Il suffit pour cela d'adapter la variation de volume de la chambre d'aspiration au volume défini par la paroi de pulvérisation seule ou de la paroi de pulvérisation jusqu'au filtre le plus en amont.To solve this problem of clogging or clogging of micro-hole nozzles, and in particular when they are equipped with filter (s), the present invention proposes that the head comprises a suction chamber having a variable volume, so that the volume of the suction chamber decreases when pressure is exerted on the bearing surface and increases when the pressure is released on the bearing surface. Thus, the suction chamber generates a suction or “sniffing” which makes it possible to remove the fluid product from the spray wall and / or from the filter (s) by making the fluid product rise in the suction chamber. It suffices for this to adapt the variation in volume of the suction chamber to the volume defined by the spray wall alone or from the spray wall to the most upstream filter.

Avantageusement, les trous de pulvérisation présentent un diamètre de l'ordre de 1 à 100 µm, avantageusement de l'ordre de 5 à 30 µm, et de préférence de l'ordre de 10 à 20 µm.Advantageously, the spray holes have a diameter of the order of 1 to 100 μm, advantageously of the order of 5 to 30 μm, and preferably of the order of 10 to 20 μm.

Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux, la tête de distribution comprend en outre au moins un filtre en amont de la paroi de pulvérisation.According to an advantageous embodiment, the distribution head further comprises at least one filter upstream of the spray wall.

Le filtre peut se présenter sous la forme d'une plaque de filtre comprenant des trous de filtre qui sont plus nombreux que les trous de pulvérisation, mais présentant un diamètre inférieur à ceux des trous de pulvérisation. Le filtre peut également se présenter sous la forme un bloc de filtre formant un réseau de cavités ouvertes. Un même gicleur peut comprendre à la fois une ou plusieurs plaque(s) de filtre et un ou plusieurs bloc(s) de filtre.The filter may be in the form of a filter plate comprising filter holes which are more numerous than the spray holes, but having a smaller diameter than those of the spray holes. The filter can also be in the form of a filter block forming an array of open cavities. A single nozzle can include both one or more filter plate (s) and one or more filter block (s).

La variation de volume de la chambre d'aspiration est avantageusement supérieure au volume cumulé des trous de pulvérisation, lorsqu'il n'y a pas de filtre. Autrement, un espace intermédiaire est formé entre la paroi de pulvérisation et le filtre, la variation de volume de la chambre d'aspiration étant alors avantageusement supérieure au volume cumulé des trous de pulvérisation, de l'espace intermédiaire et des trous de filtre et/ou du réseau de cavités ouvertes.The variation in volume of the suction chamber is advantageously greater than the cumulative volume of the spray holes, when there is no filter. Otherwise, an intermediate space is formed between the spray wall and the filter, the variation in volume of the suction chamber then advantageously being greater than the cumulative volume of the spray holes, of the intermediate space and of the filter holes and / or the network of open cavities.

Selon un mode de réalisation pratique, la chambre d'aspiration peut comprendre un piston ou une paroi élastiquement déformable.According to a practical embodiment, the suction chamber may comprise a piston or an elastically deformable wall.

La tête de distribution peut se présenter sous la forme d'un poussoir, comprenant :

  • un manchon de raccordement destiné à être raccordé à une sortie d'un organe de distribution, tel qu'une pompe,
  • un puits d'entrée dans le prolongement du manchon de raccordement,
  • un logement de montage axial,
  • un conduit d'alimentation reliant le puits d'entrée au logement de montage axial,
  • un gicleur engagé dans le logement de montage axial, la paroi de pulvérisation étant solidaire du gicleur,
dans laquelle la chambre d'aspiration est formée entre le manchon de raccordement et le puits d'entrée ou entre le puits d'entrée et le conduit d'alimentation.The dispensing head may be in the form of a pusher, comprising:
  • a connecting sleeve intended to be connected to an outlet of a distribution member, such as a pump,
  • an inlet well in the extension of the connection sleeve,
  • an axial mounting housing,
  • a supply duct connecting the inlet well to the axial mounting housing,
  • a nozzle engaged in the axial mounting housing, the spray wall being integral with the nozzle,
wherein the suction chamber is formed between the connection sleeve and the inlet well or between the inlet well and the supply conduit.

L'esprit de l'invention réside dans le fait de vider le gicleur à trous multiple du produit fluide qu'il contient après la phase de pulvérisation. La chambre d'aspiration intégrée au poussoir permet de créer une dépression juste après la phase de pulvérisation qui a pour effet d'aspirer le produit fluide contenu dans le gicleur et de la stocker dans la chambre d'aspiration jusqu'à la prochaine phase de pulvérisation. Ainsi, le gicleur est assurément vide de tout produit fluide, de sorte qu'il n'y a plus aucun risque de bouchage ou colmatage par séchage, formation de résidus solides ou augmentation de la viscosité.The spirit of the invention lies in the fact of emptying the multiple-hole nozzle of the fluid product which it contains after the spraying phase. The suction chamber integrated into the pusher creates a vacuum just after the spraying phase which has the effect of sucking the fluid product contained in the nozzle and storing it in the suction chamber until the next spraying phase. Thus, the nozzle is assuredly empty of any fluid product, so that there is no longer any risk of clogging or clogging by drying, formation of solid residues or increase in viscosity.

L'invention sera maintenant plus amplement décrite en référence aux dessins joints, donnant à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, plusieurs modes de réalisation de l'invention.The invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, giving, by way of non-limiting examples, several embodiments of the invention.

Sur les figures :

  • La figure 1 est une vue en coupe transversale verticale à travers une pompe équipée d'une tête de distribution intégrant une chambre d'aspiration selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • La figure 2a est une vue agrandie au repos de la tête de distribution de la figure 1,
  • La figure 2b est une vue agrandie actionnée de la tête de distribution de la figure 2,
  • La figure 3a et 3b sont des vues ; respectivement en perspective et en coupe transversale, du gicleur des figures précédentes,
  • La figure 3c représente le volume de produit fluide présent dans le gicleur des figures 3a et 3b,
  • Les figures 4a et 4b sont des vues respectivement similaires à celles des figures 3b et 3c pour un second mode de réalisation du gicleur selon l'invention, et
  • Les figures 5, 6a et 6b sont des vues respectivement similaires à celles des figures 1, 2a et 2b pour un second mode de réalisation de la chambre d'aspiration.
In the figures:
  • The figure 1 is a vertical cross-sectional view through a pump equipped with a dispensing head incorporating a suction chamber according to a first embodiment of the invention,
  • The figure 2a is an enlarged view at rest of the dispensing head of the figure 1 ,
  • The figure 2b is an actuated enlarged view of the dispensing head of the figure 2 ,
  • The figure 3a and 3b are views; respectively in perspective and in cross section, of the nozzle of the preceding figures,
  • The figure 3c represents the volume of fluid present in the nozzle of the figures 3a and 3b ,
  • The figures 4a and 4b are respectively similar views to those of figures 3b and 3c for a second embodiment of the nozzle according to the invention, and
  • The figures 5, 6a and 6b are respectively similar views to those of figures 1, 2a and 2b for a second embodiment of the suction chamber.

On se référera indifféremment aux figures 1, 2a et 2b pour décrire les pièces constitutives, ainsi que leur agencement mutuel, d'une tête de distribution T réalisée selon l'invention.We will refer indifferently to figures 1, 2a and 2b to describe the constituent parts, as well as their mutual arrangement, of a distribution head T produced according to the invention.

La tête de distribution T comprend trois pièces constitutives essentielles, à savoir un corps de tête 1 et un gicleur 2 et un piston 3. Ces pièces peuvent être réalisées par injection moulage de matière plastique. Le corps de tête 1 est de préférence réalisé de manière monobloc : il peut cependant être réalisé à partir de plusieurs pièces assemblées les unes aux autres. Il en est de même pour le gicleur 2 qui peut être réalisé de manière monobloc mono-matière, par surmoulage ou bi-injection de plusieurs matières ou encore par assemblage mécanique.The dispensing head T comprises three essential constituent parts, namely a head body 1 and a nozzle 2 and a piston 3. These parts can be produced by injection molding of plastic material. The head body 1 is preferably made in one piece: it can however be made from several parts assembled together. The same is true for the nozzle 2 which can be produced as a single-piece, single-material, by overmolding or bi-injection of several materials or even by mechanical assembly.

Le corps de tête 1 comprend une jupe périphérique sensiblement cylindrique 10 qui est obturée à son extrémité supérieure par un plateau 16. Le corps de tête 1 définit intérieurement un puits d'entrée 11 qui est ouvert vers le bas et obturé à son extrémité supérieure par le plateau 16. Le corps de tête 1 définit également un conduit d'alimentation 13 qui relie le puits d'entrée 11 à un logement de montage 12, comme on peut le voir sur les figures 1 et 3. Le logement de montage axial 12 est de configuration globale cylindrique, définissant ainsi une paroi interne qui est sensiblement cylindrique. Le conduit d'alimentation 13 débouche dans le logement de montage 2 de manière centrée. On peut également remarquer que la paroi interne du logement de montage 12 présente des profils d'accrochage permettant un meilleur maintien du gicleur 2. Le corps de tête 1 définit aussi un fût de coulissement 14 qui s'étend vers le bas de manière concentrique au puits d'entrée 11. Ce fût de coulissement est cylindrique intérieurement et présente sur sa paroi externe un profil de maintien, par exemple sous la forme d'un petit épaulement vers l'extérieur.The head body 1 comprises a substantially cylindrical peripheral skirt 10 which is closed at its upper end by a plate 16. The head body 1 internally defines an inlet well 11 which is open at the bottom and closed at its upper end by the plate 16. The head body 1 also defines a supply duct 13 which connects the inlet well 11 to a mounting housing 12, as can be seen in the figures. figures 1 and 3 . The axial mounting housing 12 is generally cylindrical in configuration, thereby defining an inner wall which is substantially cylindrical. The supply duct 13 opens into the mounting housing 2 in a centered manner. It can also be noted that the internal wall of the mounting housing 12 has hooking profiles allowing better maintenance of the nozzle 2. The head body 1 also defines a sliding barrel 14 which extends downwards in a concentric manner. inlet well 11. This sliding barrel is internally cylindrical and has a retaining profile on its outer wall, for example in the form of a small shoulder towards the outside.

Optionnellement, le corps de tête 1 peut être engagé dans une capsule d'habillage 4 comprenant surface supérieure d'appui 41 pour un doigt et une enveloppe latérale 42 formant une ouverture latérale 43 pour le passage du gicleur 2. En l'absence de capsule d'habillage 4, la surface d'appui est formée par le plateau 16 du corps de tête 1.Optionally, the head body 1 can be engaged in a covering capsule 4 comprising an upper bearing surface 41 for a finger and a lateral envelope 42 forming a lateral opening 43 for the passage of the nozzle 2. In the absence of a capsule. cover 4, the bearing surface is formed by the plate 16 of the head body 1.

Le gicleur 2 présente une configuration globale sensiblement conventionnelle sous la forme d'un godet qui est ouvert à une extrémité et fermé à son extrémité opposée par une paroi de pulvérisation D, avantageusement sous la forme d'une petite plaque, au niveau de laquelle sont formés plusieurs trous ou orifices de pulvérisation DO. En se référant aux figures 3a et 3b, on peut voir que le gicleur 2 comprend un corps de gicleur 20 de forme globale sensiblement cylindrique qui présente de préférence une symétrie axiale de révolution. En d'autres termes, le gicleur 2 n'a pas besoin d'être orienté angulairement avant sa présentation devant l'entrée du logement de montage axial 12. Le corps de gicleur 20 forme une paroi externe de montage 21 qui est avantageusement pourvue de reliefs d'accrochage apte à coopérer avec les profils d'accrochage du logement de montage 12. Ainsi, le gicleur 2 peut être engagé axialement sans orientation particulière dans le logement de montage axial 12. Le corps de gicleur 20 forme intérieurement une chambre délimitée par une paroi interne 23 formant plusieurs gradins de diamètres décroissants. Sur sa face frontale externe, le corps de gicleur 20 forme une plage annulaire plane 25 définissant une ouverture centrale 26.The nozzle 2 has a substantially conventional overall configuration in the form of a cup which is open at one end and closed at its opposite end by a spray wall D, advantageously in the form of a small plate, at the level of which are formed several holes or spray orifices DO. With reference to figures 3a and 3b , it can be seen that the nozzle 2 comprises a nozzle body 20 of substantially cylindrical overall shape which preferably has an axial symmetry of revolution. In other words, the nozzle 2 does not need to be angularly oriented before it is presented in front of the entrance to the axial mounting housing 12. The nozzle body 20 forms an external mounting wall 21 which is advantageously provided with hooking reliefs able to cooperate with the hooking profiles of the mounting housing 12. Thus, the nozzle 2 can be engaged axially without particular orientation in the axial mounting housing 12. The nozzle body 20 internally forms a chamber delimited by an internal wall 23 forming several steps of decreasing diameters. On its outer front face, the nozzle body 20 forms a planar annular land 25 defining a central opening 26.

La paroi de pulvérisation D est solidaire du corps de gicleur 20, avantageusement au niveau de l'ouverture centrale 26. La paroi de pulvérisation D est fixée au corps de gicleur 20 par tous moyens, tel que le surmoulage, la bi-injection, le moulage monobloc mono-matière, l'encliquetage, le sertissage, le dudgeonnage, le montage en force, etc.The spray wall D is integral with the nozzle body 20, advantageously at the level of the central opening 26. The spray wall D is fixed to the nozzle body 20 by any means, such as overmolding, bi-injection, one-piece mono-material molding, snap-fitting, crimping, expansion, press-fitting, etc.

La paroi de pulvérisation D peut être une plaque monobloc mono-matière, un assemblage de plusieurs pièces ou encore un produit multicouche, par exemple laminé. Elle peut être réalisée en métal, matière plastique, céramique, verre ou une combinaison de ceux-ci. Plus généralement, n'importe quel matériau susceptible d'être percé de petits trous ou orifices est utilisable. L'épaisseur de la paroi de pulvérisation D, au niveau où sont formés les trous DO, est de l'ordre de 1 à 100 µm. Le nombre de trous DO est de l'ordre de 20 à 500. Le diamètre de la paroi de pulvérisation D, au niveau où sont formés les trous DO, est de l'ordre de 0,5 à 5 mm.The spray wall D can be a one-piece mono-material plate, an assembly of several parts or else a multilayer product, for example a laminate. It can be made of metal, plastic, ceramic, glass or a combination thereof. More generally, any material capable of being pierced with small holes or orifices can be used. The thickness of the spray wall D, at the level where the holes DO are formed, is of the order of 1 to 100 μm. The number of holes DO is of the order of 20 to 500. The diameter of the spray wall D, at the level where the holes DO are formed, is of the order of 0.5 to 5 mm.

Selon un procédé de fabrication avantageux, les trous DO sont percés dans la paroi de pulvérisation D alors qu'elle est déjà solidaire du corps de gicleur 20. Ainsi, on peut se servir du corps de gicleur 20 comme organe de manipulation de la paroi de pulvérisation D pour son opération de perçage, qui peut par exemple être réalisée par laser. Il faut garder à l'esprit que la paroi de pulvérisation D est une pièce très petite, et de ce fait difficile à manipuler. Il est à noter que le perçage des trous DO avec la paroi de pulvérisation D prémontée sur le corps de gicleur 20 est un procédé qui peut être mis en œuvre quelle que soit la taille des trous DO, c'est-à-dire indépendamment du fait que la tête de distributeur intègre une chambre d'aspiration.According to an advantageous manufacturing process, the holes DO are drilled in the spray wall D when it is already integral with the body of the sprayer. nozzle 20. Thus, the nozzle body 20 can be used as a device for manipulating the spray wall D for its drilling operation, which can for example be carried out by laser. It should be borne in mind that the spray wall D is a very small part, and therefore difficult to handle. It should be noted that the drilling of the holes DO with the spray wall D pre-assembled on the nozzle body 20 is a method which can be implemented regardless of the size of the holes DO, i.e. regardless of the size of the holes. makes that the distributor head incorporates a suction chamber.

Avantageusement, le gicleur 2 comprend également deux filtres F1 et F2 disposés en amont de la paroi de pulvérisation D.Advantageously, the nozzle 2 also comprises two filters F1 and F2 arranged upstream of the spray wall D.

Le filtre F1 est monté sur un gradin de la paroi interne 23 derrière la paroi de pulvérisation D en définissant entre eux un premier espace intermédiaire E1. Le filtre F1 est une plaque sensiblement similaire à la paroi de pulvérisation D avec des trous de filtre FO qui sont avantageusement plus nombreux que les trous de pulvérisation DO, mais qui présentent avantageusement un diamètre inférieur à ceux des trous de pulvérisation DO. On peut aussi remarquer que le diamètre de la plaque de filtre F1 est supérieur à celui de la paroi de pulvérisation D. Son épaisseur peut être sensiblement la même que celle de paroi de pulvérisation D, voire légèrement supérieure.The filter F1 is mounted on a step of the internal wall 23 behind the spray wall D by defining between them a first intermediate space E1. The filter F1 is a plate substantially similar to the spray wall D with filter holes FO which are advantageously more numerous than the spray holes DO, but which advantageously have a smaller diameter than those of the spray holes DO. It can also be noted that the diameter of the filter plate F1 is greater than that of the spray wall D. Its thickness can be substantially the same as that of the spray wall D, or even slightly greater.

Le filtre F2 est également monté sur un gradin de la paroi interne 23 en amont du filtre F1 en définissant entre eux un second espace intermédiaire E2. Le filtre F2 se présente sous la forme d'un bloc de matière poreuse, avantageusement rigide, tel que du Porex ®, qui forme un réseau de cavités ouvertes, dont la taille moyenne de pores peut être de l'ordre de 7 à 100 microns.The filter F2 is also mounted on a step of the internal wall 23 upstream of the filter F1 by defining between them a second intermediate space E2. The filter F2 is in the form of a block of porous material, advantageously rigid, such as Porex ®, which forms a network of open cavities, the average pore size of which may be of the order of 7 to 100 microns. .

Ainsi, par appui sur la tête de distributeur T, du produit fluide refoulé par la pompe P s'écoule à travers le puits d'entrée 11, le conduit d'alimentation 13, passe à travers le filtre F2, remplit le second espace intermédiaire E2, passe à travers le filtre F1, remplit le premier espace intermédiaire E1, et enfin passe à travers la paroi de pulvérisation D à la sortie de laquelle il est pulvérisé en fines gouttelettes. La figure 3c représente le volume du produit fluide dans le filtre F1, à savoir VF1, le premier espace intermédiaire E1, à savoir VE1, et la paroi de pulvérisation D, à savoir VD.Thus, by pressing on the distributor head T, the fluid product delivered by the pump P flows through the inlet well 11, the supply duct 13, passes through the filter F2, fills the second intermediate space E2, passes through the filter F1, fills the first intermediate space E1, and finally passes through the spray wall D to the outlet from which it is sprayed into fine droplets. The figure 3c represents the volume of the fluid in the filter F1, namely VF1, the first intermediate space E1, namely VE1, and the spray wall D, namely VD.

La figure 4a montre une seconde forme de réalisation pour un gicleur 2', qui peut être mis en œuvre dans la tête de distributeur T à la place du gicleur 2. Ce gicleur 2' comprend une paroi de pulvérisation D' sur laquelle le corps de gicleur 20' a été surmoulé. La paroi de pulvérisation D' définit aussi une série de petits trous de pulvérisation DO' de l'ordre de 1 à 100 microns de diamètres. Le gicleur 2' ne comprend qu'un seul filtre F2' qui peut être sensiblement identique au filtre F2, c'est-à-dire formé par une pièce ou un bloc de matière poreuse, avantageusement rigide, tel que du Porex ®, qui forme un réseau de cavités ouvertes, dont la taille moyenne de pores peut être de l'ordre de 7 à 100 microns. Le filtre F2' et la paroi de pulvérisation D'définissent entre eux un espace intermédiaire E1'. La figure 4b est similaire à la figure 5c et montre le volume du produit fluide dans le espace intermédiaire E1', à savoir VE1', et la paroi de pulvérisation D', à savoir VD'.The figure 4a shows a second embodiment for a nozzle 2 ', which can be implemented in the distributor head T instead of the nozzle 2. This nozzle 2' comprises a spray wall D 'on which the nozzle body 20' has been overmolded. The spray wall D 'also defines a series of small spray holes DO' of the order of 1 to 100 microns in diameter. The nozzle 2 ′ comprises only a single filter F2 ′ which may be substantially identical to the filter F2, that is to say formed by a part or a block of porous material, advantageously rigid, such as Porex®, which forms a network of open cavities, the average pore size of which may be of the order of 7 to 100 microns. The filter F2 ′ and the spray wall D define between them an intermediate space E1 ′. The figure 4b is similar to figure 5c and shows the volume of the fluid in the intermediate space E1 ', namely VE1', and the spray wall D ', namely VD'.

Selon l'invention, la tête de distributeur T intègre une chambre d'aspiration 30 qui est formée par la coopération du corps de tête 1 avec le piston 3. En se référant aux figures 2a et 2b, on voit que le piston 3 est monté coulissant autour du fût de coulissement 14 à l'encontre d'un ressort 33, qui peut être un anneau élastiquement déformable. Le piston 3 est donc sollicité en éloignement du puits d'entrée 11 tout en restant solidaire du fût de coulissement 14 grâce au profil de maintien du fût 14 qui coopère avec une bague 32 du piston 3 qui est engagée autour du fût 14. Sur la figure 2a, le piston 3 est au repos et sur la figure 2b, le piston 3 est déplacé au maximum vers le puits d'entrée 11 en comprimant le ressort 33. Le piston comprend également un manchon 35 qui est engagé dans le fût de coulissement 14 en étant reliée à son extrémité inférieure à la bague 32 et formant à son extrémité supérieure libre une lèvre de piston 34 qui en contact de coulissement étanche avec la paroi interne cylindrique du fût de coulissement 14. Le manchon 35 définit aussi un passage central 31. Le piston 3 et le corps de tête 1 définissent entre eux la chambre d'aspiration 30 dont le volume varie avec le déplacement coulissant du piston 3.According to the invention, the distributor head T incorporates a suction chamber 30 which is formed by the cooperation of the head body 1 with the piston 3. With reference to figures 2a and 2b , it can be seen that the piston 3 is slidably mounted around the sliding barrel 14 against a spring 33, which may be an elastically deformable ring. The piston 3 is therefore biased away from the inlet well 11 while remaining integral with the sliding barrel 14 by virtue of the retaining profile of the barrel 14 which cooperates with a ring 32 of the piston 3 which is engaged around the barrel 14. On the figure 2a , the piston 3 is at rest and on the figure 2b , the piston 3 is moved as far as possible towards the inlet well 11 by compressing the spring 33. The piston also comprises a sleeve 35 which is engaged in the sliding barrel 14 by being connected at its lower end to the ring 32 and forming at its free upper end, a piston lip 34 which in leaktight sliding contact with the cylindrical inner wall of the sliding barrel 14. The sleeve 35 also defines a central passage 31. The sleeve 35 also defines a central passage 31. piston 3 and the head body 1 define between them the suction chamber 30, the volume of which varies with the sliding movement of the piston 3.

En se référant à nouveau à la figure 1, on peut voir que le manchon 35 est raccordé à l'extrémité libre d'une tige d'actionnement P2 d'un organe de distribution P, tel qu'une pompe ou une valve. La tige d'actionnement P2 est déplaçable en va-et-vient selon l'axe Y à l'encontre d'un ressort interne (non représenté). De préférence, la raideur du ressort 33 du piston 3 est inférieure à celle du ressort interne de l'organe de distribution P. La tige d'actionnement P2 est creuse de manière à définir un conduit de refoulement en communication avec une chambre de dosage de l'organe de distribution P. Le passage central 31 du piston 3 est situé directement en aval de la sortie de la tige d'actionnement P2, de sorte que produit fluide refoulé par l'organe de distribution P traverse la chambre d'aspiration 30 pour parvenir au puits d'entrée 11.Referring again to the figure 1 , it can be seen that the sleeve 35 is connected to the free end of an actuating rod P2 of a distribution member P, such as a pump or a valve. The actuating rod P2 can be moved back and forth along the Y axis against an internal spring (not shown). Preferably, the stiffness of the spring 33 of the piston 3 is less than that of the internal spring of the distribution member P. The actuating rod P2 is hollow so as to define a delivery duct in communication with a metering chamber. the distribution member P. The central passage 31 of the piston 3 is located directly downstream of the outlet of the actuating rod P2, so that the fluid product delivered by the distribution member P passes through the suction chamber 30 to reach the entrance shaft 11.

Lorsque la tête de distributeur T est au repos (figure 2a), la chambre d'aspiration 30 présente un volume maximal. Lorsqu'un utilisateur appuie sur la surface d'appui de la tête T, la chambre d'aspiration 30 va diminuer de volume jusqu'à atteindre un minimum (figure 2b). Ensuite, la tige d'actionnement P2 va être enfoncée de manière à distribuer du produit fluide à travers la tête T et son gicleur 2 où il va être pulvérisé. Dès lors que l'utilisateur relâche sa pression sur la surface d'appui de la tête T, la tige d'actionnement P2 retourne vers sa position de repos sous l'action du ressort interne. Le piston 3 va également se déplacer pour regagner lui aussi sa position de repos (figure 2a). Ce faisant, une dépression est créée dans la chambre d'aspiration, du fait de son augmentation de volume. Cette dépression va générer une force d'aspiration au niveau du gicleur 2 qui va déplacer le produit fluide qu'il contient vers la chambre d'aspiration 30. On peut ainsi vider les trous de pulvérisation DO, le ou les filtres F1, F2, F2' et le ou les espaces intermédiaires E1, E2, E1'. La variation de volume de la chambre d'aspiration 30 peut être adaptée à la conception du gicleur pour retirer un volume de produit fluide suffisant. Dans le gicleur 1, on peut par exemple évacuer les trous de pulvérisation DO, le premier espace intermédiaire E1 et les trous de filtres FO, mais pas le second espace intermédiaire E2, ni le filtre F2. Ainsi, l'on évacuerait seulement le volume représenté sur la figure 3c.When the distributor head T is at rest ( figure 2a ), the suction chamber 30 has a maximum volume. When a user presses on the bearing surface of the head T, the suction chamber 30 will decrease in volume until it reaches a minimum ( figure 2b ). Then, the actuating rod P2 will be pushed in so as to distribute the fluid product through the head T and its nozzle 2 where it will be sprayed. As soon as the user releases his pressure on the bearing surface of the head T, the actuating rod P2 returns to its rest position under the action of the internal spring. The piston 3 will also move to also regain its rest position ( figure 2a ). In doing so, a vacuum is created in the suction chamber, due to its increase in volume. This depression will generate a suction force at the level of the nozzle 2 which will move the fluid that it contains towards the suction chamber 30. It is thus possible to empty the spray holes DO, the filter (s) F1, F2, F2 'and the intermediate space (s) E1, E2, E1'. The variation in volume of the suction chamber 30 can be adapted to the design of the nozzle to remove a sufficient volume of fluid. In nozzle 1, it is for example possible to evacuate the spray holes DO, the first space intermediate E1 and the filter holes FO, but not the second intermediate space E2, nor the filter F2. Thus, one would evacuate only the volume represented on the figure 3c .

Sur les figures 5, 6a et 6b, on peut voir un second mode de réalisation pour la chambre d'aspiration. Un dôme souple 3' est monté sur le corps de tête 1' à la place du plateau 16 du premier mode de réalisation. Ce dôme souple 3' comprend une couronne d'ancrage 32' qui est montée sur une bride de fixation 14' du corps de tête 1'. D'autre part, la capsule d'habillage 4' forme un rabat rentrant 41' qui vient en appuyer la couronne d'ancrage 32' sur le corps de tête 1'. Ainsi, la couronne d'ancrage 32' est montée de manière fixe et étanche sur le corps de tête 1'. Le dôme souple 3' comprend également une paroi d'actionnement élastiquement déformable 34' qui forme une surface d'appui pour un doigt d'utilisateur. La chambre d'aspiration 30' est alors formée entre le corps de tête 1' et cette paroi d'actionnement élastiquement déformable 34'. Elle est alimentée en produit fluide par le puits d'entrée 11' et la sortie de la chambre est formée par le conduit d'alimentation 13' qui se raccorde au gicleur 2.On the figures 5, 6a and 6b , we can see a second embodiment for the suction chamber. A flexible dome 3 'is mounted on the head body 1' in place of the plate 16 of the first embodiment. This flexible dome 3 ′ comprises an anchoring ring 32 ′ which is mounted on a fixing flange 14 ′ of the head body 1 ′. On the other hand, the covering cap 4 ′ forms a re-entrant flap 41 ′ which supports the anchoring ring 32 ′ on the head body 1 ′. Thus, the anchoring ring 32 ′ is mounted in a fixed and sealed manner on the head body 1 ′. The flexible dome 3 'also comprises an elastically deformable actuating wall 34' which forms a bearing surface for a user's finger. The suction chamber 30 'is then formed between the head body 1' and this elastically deformable actuating wall 34 '. It is supplied with fluid by the inlet well 11 'and the outlet of the chamber is formed by the supply duct 13' which is connected to the nozzle 2.

En enfonçant la paroi d'actionnement élastiquement déformable 34', comme représenté sur la figure 6b, on réduit le volume de la tige d'actionnement P2, puis on enfonce la tige d'actionnement P2 de l'organe de distribution P. Du produit fluide est alors refoulé à travers la tige d'actionnement P2 : il traverse le puits d'entrée, la chambre d'aspiration 30', le conduit d'alimentation 13' et le gicleur 2, d'où il sort pulvérisé en fines gouttelettes. Dès que l'utilisateur relâche la pression sur la paroi d'actionnement 34', la tige d'actionnement P2 retourne vers sa position de repos et la paroi d'actionnement 34' regagne elle aussi sa position de repos. La dépression ainsi créée dans la chambre d'aspiration 30' est mise à profit, comme dans le premier mode de réalisation, pour vider ou évacuer le gicleur 2 de son produit fluide.By depressing the elastically deformable actuating wall 34 ', as shown in figure 6b , the volume of the actuating rod P2 is reduced, then the actuating rod P2 of the distribution member P. is pushed in. Fluid is then pumped through the actuating rod P2: it passes through the well d 'inlet, the suction chamber 30', the supply duct 13 'and the nozzle 2, from which it leaves sprayed in fine droplets. As soon as the user releases the pressure on the actuating wall 34 ', the actuating rod P2 returns to its rest position and the actuating wall 34' also returns to its rest position. The vacuum thus created in the suction chamber 30 'is used, as in the first embodiment, to empty or evacuate the nozzle 2 of its fluid.

Il est évident que le gicleur 2' des figures 4a et 4b peut être monté à la place du gicleur 2 dans le second mode de réalisation de la chambre d'aspiration 30'.It is obvious that the nozzle 2 'of the figures 4a and 4b can be mounted instead of the nozzle 2 in the second embodiment of the suction chamber 30 '.

La présente invention repose ainsi sur la combinaison d'une chambre d'aspiration avec un gicleur à micro-trous multiple (20 à 500 trous de 1 à 100 microns), avantageusement équipé d'un ou de plusieurs filtres.The present invention is thus based on the combination of a suction chamber with a nozzle with multiple micro-holes (20 to 500 holes of 1 to 100 microns), advantageously equipped with one or more filters.

Claims (10)

  1. A fluid dispenser head (T) for mounting on a dispenser member (P), such as a pump, and including a bearing surface (16; 41; 34') for actuating the dispenser member (P), and a spray wall (D) that is perforated with a network of holes (DO) through which the fluid under pressure passes so as to be sprayed in small droplets,
    the dispenser head being characterized in that it further includes a suction chamber (30; 30') of volume that is variable such that the volume of the suction chamber (30; 30') decreases when pressure is exerted on the bearing surface (16; 41; 34') and increases when the pressure on the bearing surface (16; 41; 34') is relaxed.
  2. . A dispenser head according to claim 1, wherein the spray holes (DO) present a diameter lying in the range about 1 µm to about 100 µm.
  3. A dispenser head according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the spray holes (DO) present a diameter lying in the range about 5 µm to about 30 µm, and preferably in the range about 10 µm to about 20 µm.
  4. A dispenser head according to any preceding claim, further including at least one filter (F1, F2; F2') upstream from the spray wall (D).
  5. A dispenser head according to claim 4, wherein the filter is a filter plate (F1) including filter holes (FO) that are more numerous than the spray holes (DO), but presenting a diameter that is smaller than the diameter(s) of the spray holes (DO).
  6. A dispenser head according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the filter is a filter block (F2; F2') forming a network of open cavities.
  7. A dispenser head according to any preceding claim, wherein the variation in the volume of the suction chamber (30; 30') is greater than the combined volumes of the spray holes (DO).
  8. A dispenser head according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein, when an intermediate space (E1; E1') is formed between the spray wall (26) and the filter (F1; F2'), the variation in the volume of the suction chamber (30; 30') is greater than the combined volumes of the spray holes (DO), of the intermediate space (E1; E1'), and of the filter holes (FO) and/or of the network of open cavities.
  9. A dispenser head according to any preceding claim, wherein the suction chamber (30; 30') includes a piston (3) or a flexible dome (3').
  10. A dispenser head according to any preceding claim, said dispenser head being in the form of a pusher, comprising:
    • a connection sleeve (35; 15) for connecting to an outlet of a dispenser member (P), such as a pump,
    • an inlet well (11; 11') in line with the connection sleeve (35; 15);
    • an axial assembly housing (12; 12'),
    • a feed duct (13; 13') that connects the inlet well (11; 11') to the axial assembly housing (12; 12'),
    • a nozzle (2; 2') that is engaged in the axial assembly housing (12; 12'), the spray wall (D) being secured to the nozzle (2; 2'),
    wherein the suction chamber (30; 30') is formed between the connection sleeve (35) and the inlet well (11) or between the inlet well (11') and the feed duct (13').
EP18726519.4A 2017-04-27 2018-04-24 Head for dispensing a fluid product Active EP3615224B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1753689A FR3065653B1 (en) 2017-04-27 2017-04-27 FLUID PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION HEAD.
FR1754003A FR3065890B1 (en) 2017-05-05 2017-05-05 FLUID PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION MODULE.
PCT/FR2018/051019 WO2018197798A1 (en) 2017-04-27 2018-04-24 Head for dispensing a fluid product

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3615224A1 EP3615224A1 (en) 2020-03-04
EP3615224B1 true EP3615224B1 (en) 2021-06-09

Family

ID=62223052

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18726519.4A Active EP3615224B1 (en) 2017-04-27 2018-04-24 Head for dispensing a fluid product

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US11278925B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3615224B1 (en)
CN (1) CN110603105B (en)
BR (1) BR112019021994B1 (en)
ES (1) ES2879863T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2018197798A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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US5348189A (en) * 1991-04-10 1994-09-20 Bespak Plc Air purge pump dispenser
US5664703A (en) * 1994-02-28 1997-09-09 The Procter & Gamble Company Pump device with collapsible pump chamber having supply container venting system and integral shipping seal
US5492275A (en) * 1994-05-16 1996-02-20 Par-Way Group Hand pump sprayer with rotating nozzle and system for dispensing viscous liquids
JPH09110064A (en) * 1995-10-13 1997-04-28 Mandamu:Kk Pump button equipped with function for preventing clogging and dripping, and cosmetic container equipped with such pump button
FR2779129B1 (en) * 1998-05-26 2000-08-18 Sofab DIFFUSER OF LIQUID PRODUCTS IN AEROSOL FORM
US6536685B2 (en) * 2001-03-16 2003-03-25 Unilever Home And Personal Care Usa, Division Of Conopco, Inc. Foamer
FR2903328B1 (en) 2006-07-10 2008-12-05 Rexam Dispensing Systems Sas SPRAY NOZZLE, SPRAY DEVICE AND USE THEREOF.
FR2915470B1 (en) * 2007-04-24 2011-06-10 Rexam Dispensing Sys PUSH BUTTON AND DISPENSER COMPRISING SUCH A PUSH BUTTON.
US7726517B2 (en) 2007-06-27 2010-06-01 The Clorox Company Liquid draw-back system for a dispensing package
GB0800709D0 (en) * 2008-01-16 2008-02-20 Dunne Stephen T Double jet impinging nozzle
ITRM20080184A1 (en) * 2008-04-08 2009-10-09 Emsar Spa DELIVERY HEAD FOR LIQUID PRODUCTS DISPENSERS
US8104650B2 (en) 2008-06-06 2012-01-31 Pibed Ltd. Anti drip device for liquid dispensers
GB2463716A (en) * 2008-09-24 2010-03-31 Robinson Plc A dispensing cap having an expansion chamber to contain residual product
WO2013125555A1 (en) 2012-02-21 2013-08-29 ノズルネットワーク株式会社 Liquid atomization device
CN106573134B (en) * 2014-06-20 2021-04-06 美德斯普瑞公司 Spraying device and method for producing a spraying device and associated device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2018197798A1 (en) 2018-11-01
US11278925B2 (en) 2022-03-22
BR112019021994A2 (en) 2020-05-05
BR112019021994B1 (en) 2023-01-31
CN110603105B (en) 2022-01-04
CN110603105A (en) 2019-12-20
US20200114382A1 (en) 2020-04-16
ES2879863T3 (en) 2021-11-23
EP3615224A1 (en) 2020-03-04

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