EP3967620A1 - Refillable dispenser for semiliquid or paste-like products - Google Patents
Refillable dispenser for semiliquid or paste-like products Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3967620A1 EP3967620A1 EP21153071.2A EP21153071A EP3967620A1 EP 3967620 A1 EP3967620 A1 EP 3967620A1 EP 21153071 A EP21153071 A EP 21153071A EP 3967620 A1 EP3967620 A1 EP 3967620A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- container
- cartridge
- refillable dispenser
- pasty
- semi
- 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.)
- Withdrawn
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Classifications
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- 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
- B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
- B65D35/24—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices
- B65D35/28—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices for expelling contents
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- 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
- B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
- B65D35/14—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with linings or inserts
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- 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
- B65D83/0055—Containers or packages provided with a flexible bag or a deformable membrane or diaphragm for expelling the contents
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products.
- the refillable dispenser of the present invention is used in the field of packaging of pasty or semi-liquid products, namely toothpaste or alternatively food sauces, glues, detergents or the like.
- Containers for pasty products such as toothpaste, food sauces or glues, are known in the art.
- These containers are typically in tube form and extend between a first end having a mouth configured to allow the outflow of the pasty product, and a second closed end.
- Prior art containers further comprise a cap for closing the mouth to prevent accidental spillage of the dispenser contents.
- these tubes are made of an easily deformable plastic material, for the user to be able to eject their contents by simply squeezing the tube.
- prior art containers for pasty products are disposable, i.e. are discarded and replaced when empty.
- these prior art containers are typically made of plastic materials that cannot be easily recycled, whereby their use involves a significant environmental impact and a waste of raw materials.
- the technical purpose of the present invention is to provide a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products that can obviate the aforementioned prior art drawbacks.
- an object of the present invention is to provide a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products that is eco-friendly, i.e. not harmful to the environment.
- an object of the present invention is to provide a refillable dispenser that simplifies the industrial production process, thereby reducing the end-user price of the product price.
- the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products of the present invention comprises a container having a cavity adapted to receive a cartridge containing a pasty or semi-liquid product, such as toothpaste.
- the container extends between a first end having a mouth configured to allow the outflow of the pasty or semi-liquid product, and a second openable end.
- the second openable end allows replacement of the cartridge.
- the user may replace it by pulling it out of the cavity and inserting a new one through the second openable end.
- the cartridge of the refillable dispenser of the present invention is made of a light and soft material it may be formed from recyclable and ⁇ or compostable material, therefore the material of the cartridge can be recovered and reused to manufacture new products.
- the refillable dispenser object of the present invention is eco-friendly because it is refillable multiple times with the recyclable cartridge.
- the present invention relates to a refillable dispenser 1 for pasty or semi-liquid products, in particular for toothpaste.
- pasty or semi-liquid products refer to any substance having a semisolid or semi-liquid consistency such as creams, gels, cosmetic products, detergents, food sauces and glues.
- a first embodiment of the present invention particularly relates to a refillable travel dispenser 1, i.e. a refillable dispenser 1 configured to be easily transported and stored for example in a vanity case or a bag.
- a second embodiment of the present invention relates to a refillable bench dispenser 1, i.e. a refillable dispenser 1 configured to stand on a flat surface, such as the surface of a sink or a bench.
- the refillable dispenser 1 of the present invention comprises a container 2 extending between a first end and a second end 21, 22 aligned along a longitudinal direction X-X.
- the container 2 is deformable and is preferably made of flexible plastic material, such as plastic or high-density polyethylene laminates.
- first and second ends 21, 22 are aligned along the longitudinal direction when the container 2 is not deformed.
- the container 2 has a cavity 20 configured to receive a cartridge 4 containing a given amount of pasty or semi-liquid product. Further details about the cartridge 4 will be provided hereinbelow.
- the cavity 20 extends in the longitudinal direction X-X from the first end 21 to the second end 22.
- the container 2 is a tube having an enclosure made of flexible plastic material, which extends in the longitudinal direction X-X between the first and second ends 21, 22.
- the first end 21 has a mouth 23 configured to allow the outflow of the pasty or semi-liquid product contained in the cartridge 4. More in detail, the mouth 21 comprises a through hole which extends through the mouth 23 to provide fluid communication of the cavity 20 with the outside.
- the mouth 23 and the through hole extend from the first end 21 along the longitudinal direction X-X in a direction away from the second end 22.
- the mouth 23 of the first end 21 is configured to be associated with an opening 40 of the cartridge 4, to allow the outflow of the product in the cartridge 4 when pressure is applied on the container 2.
- the through hole of the mouth 23 is configured to be connected in fluid communication with the interior of the cartridge 4 via the opening 40.
- a user applies a pressure on the container 2 which deforms and hence pushes the product in the cartridge 4 out through the mouth 23.
- the refillable dispenser comprises a cap 3 adapted to be reversibly coupled with the mouth 23 to close it. More in detail, as the cap 3 is coupled with the mouth 23, it closes the through hole that allows the outflow of the product in the cartridge 4.
- the reversible coupling between the cap 3 and the mouth 23 may be provided, for example, by means of a threaded connection, a bayonet connection, or any other type of known reversible mechanical connection.
- the second end 22 of the container 2 is adapted to be opened to allow removal and/or introduction of the cartridge 4 from/into the cavity 20.
- the second end 22 is configured to allow replacement of the cartridge 4 once its contents have been completely emptied.
- the second end 22 comprises a first edge and a second edge 22a, 22b, which are opposite and movable relative to each other to open and close the second end 22 of the container 2.
- edges 22a, 22b extend transverse, preferably perpendicular, to the longitudinal direction X-X, and are connected to each other at their terminations 220, as shown in Figure 2 .
- edges 22a, 22b are adapted to be reversibly fixed against each other.
- the first and second edges 22a, 22b abut each other to close, and when the second end 22 is open, the first and second edges 22a, 22b are spaced apart and only connected at their terminations 220.
- the first and second edges 22a, 22b are spaced apart to define a refill opening 24 which is designed to provide communication between the cavity 20 and the outside.
- the refill opening 24, and the first and second edges 22a, 22b are suitably sized to allow insertion and/or removal of the cartridge 4 into/from the cavity 20.
- the refillable dispenser 1 comprises a closure device 5 configured to seal the second end 22 of the container 2 and keep it closed.
- the closure device is integrated in the second end 22 of the container. More in detail, the closure device 5 comprises a groove 50 extending along the first edge 22a of the second end 22, and a projection 51 facing the groove 50 and extending along the second edge 22b of the second end 22.
- the groove 50 and the projection 51 extend transverse to the longitudinal direction X-X to thereby connect the ends 220 of the edges 22a, 22b. More preferably, the groove 50 and the projection 51 extend perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X-X.
- the groove 50 and the projection 51 are configured to be reversibly coupled to allow the second end 22 of the container 2 to be opened and closed.
- the second end 22 is closed when the projection 51 is received within the groove 50 to form an interference fit, and is open when the projection 51 and the groove 50 are spaced apart.
- the user In order to open the second end 22, the user must separate the edges 22a, 22b by exerting a pulling force thereon to remove the projection 51 from the groove 50. Likewise, in order to close the second end 22, the user must press one edge against the other 22a, 22b to accommodate the projection 51 in the groove 50.
- the closure device 5 is a device configured to be placed at the second end 22 to keep it closed.
- the closure device 5 comprises a pair of opposable pressing surfaces 52 which can be commuted between a first closed configuration in which the pressing surfaces 52 are close together and press the edges 22a, 22b of the second end 22 against each other, and an open configuration in which the pressing surfaces 52 are spaced apart.
- the closure device 5 comprises a hinge 53 for pivotally constraining the pressing surfaces 52 about a hinge pivot axis C-C, as shown in Figure 4 .
- the pressing surfaces 52 rotate relative to each other about the hinge pivot axis C-C they are commuted between the closed and open configurations.
- the closure device 5 comprises a closing mechanism 54 which is configured to keep the pressing surfaces 52 close together in the closed configuration.
- the closure device 5 also has a safety function, in that, if the cartridge 4 is punctured or broken, it prevents its contents from escaping from the second end 22 of the container 2.
- the closure device 5 is equipped with means adapted to close the second end 22 of the container 2 in a fluid-tight manner to prevent the contents of the cartridge 4 from escaping whenever the latter is accidentally broken.
- the refillable dispenser 1 comprises a squeezing device 6 which is configured to assist the user to eject the pasty or semi-liquid product from the cartridge 4 by keeping it under pressure.
- the squeezing device 6 can be applied between the first and second ends 21, 22 of the container 2 and is configured to slide, as the product is being used, from the second end to the first end 22, 21. More in detail, as the squeezing device 6 sliding from the second end to the first end 22, 21, it deforms the container 2 and causes the product contained in the cartridge 4 to flow out of the mouth 23.
- the squeezing device 6 comprises a C-shaped main body 60 specially sized to compress the container 2 on opposite sides, thereby deforming it.
- the squeezing device 6 facilitates the user to deform/squeeze the container 2 of the refillable dispenser 1 to extract the pasty or semi-liquid product from the cartridge 4.
- the refillable dispenser 1 comprises a lock system 7, which is adapted to prevent the squeezing device 6 from moving from the first end to the second end 21, 22, when the squeezing device 6 is applied between the first and second ends 21, 22 of the container 2.
- the lock system 7 comprises a textured guide 71 extending outside the container 2 between the first and second ends 21, 22 along the longitudinal direction X-X.
- the lock system 7 comprises a slider 72 configured to slide in the textured guide 71 from the second end to the first end 22, 21.
- the slider 72 is placed on the main body 60 of the squeezing device 6, so that when the squeezing device 6 moves from the second end to the first end 21, 22 of the container 2, the slider 72 will slide in the textured guide 71 and prevent any back movement of the squeezing device 6.
- the slider 72 and the textured guide 71 has each a plurality of complementary shaped teeth which ensures a one-way relative movement thereof, here coinciding with that the direction from the second end to the first end 22, 21.
- the second embodiment of Figures 7 , 8 is similar to the first embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 , but with a rigid container 2.
- the container 2 of the second embodiment comprises a pair of half-shells 25 that are designed to be coupled together to define the cavity 20 that is adapted to contain the cartridge 4.
- the half-shells 25 are movable to commute the refillable dispenser 1 between a use configuration in which the half-shells 25 abut against each and define the cavity 20, and a refill configuration in which the half-shells 25 are spaced apart to allow the user to access the cavity 20, e.g. to replace the cartridge 4 or clean it.
- the container 2 comprises a plurality of hinges 26 which are adapted to pivotally constrain the half-shells 25 about an axis of rotation R-R.
- the half-shells 25 respectively pivot about the axis of rotation R-R, they commute the refillable dispenser 2 between the use configuration and the refill configuration.
- the use configuration is shown in Figure 8
- the refill configuration is shown in Figure 7 .
- the squeezing device is configured to deform the cartridge 4 so that the product contained therein will flow through the opening 40 of the cartridge 4 and out of the mouth 23.
- the squeezing device is mechanically operable by means of a manual pressure mechanism 62 located on a half-shell 25, otherwise, in alternative embodiments, it is driven with the same principle by an electric motor that can be actuated by means of a push-button 61 located on the container 2.
- the container 2 may comprise, at the mouth 23, a support surface 27 for supporting a toothbrush 100.
- the present invention relates to a kit comprising a refillable dispenser 1 for pasty or semi-liquid products as discussed above, and a cartridge 4 containing the pasty or semi-liquid product.
- the cartridge 4 is configured to reversibly fit into the cavity 20 of the container 2 through the second openable end 22. Even more in detail, in the first embodiment, the cartridge can be inserted and removed into/from the cavity 20 of the container 2 through the refill opening 24 defined by the first and second edges 22a, 22b of the second end 22 when they are spaced apart.
- the cartridge 4 is deformable and has a pocket 41 adapted to receive the pasty or semi-liquid product, and is preferably made of a flexible plastic material.
- the cartridge 4 has a bottom 42 that closes the bottom of the pocket 41.
- the bottom 42 is configured to be locked between the first edge and the second edge 22a, 22b of the second end 22, when the cartridge 4 is fitted in the cavity 20 and the second end (22) is closed.
- the bottom 42 is configured to be locked between the first edge and second edge 22a, 22b of the second end 22, when the cartridge 4 is fitted in the cavity 20 and the second end 22 is closed as the half-shells 25 are coupled together.
- the bottom 42 of the cartridge 4 may be formed, for example, by heat-sealing.
- the cartridge 4 also has a top 43 comprising an opening 40 configured to cause the contents of the pocket 41 to flow out of the cartridge 4.
- the opening 40 of the cartridge 4 is configured to be associated with the mouth 23 of the container when the cartridge 4 is fitted in the cavity 20.
- the opening 40 is closed by a removable tab 44 configured to prevent the pasty or semi-liquid product from flowing out of the pocket 41 before insertion into the cavity 20.
- the removable tab 44 must be removed manually by the user before fitting the cartridge into the cavity 20 of the container 2.
- the cartridge 4 is made of a recyclable material such as polyethylene films and/or biodegradable and compostable films according to the product contained therein, for environment protection.
Abstract
A refillable dispenser (1) for pasty or semi-liquid products comprising a container (2) having a cavity (20) configured to receive a cartridge (4) containing a pasty or semi-liquid product, the container (2) extending between a first end (21) having a mouth (23) configured to allow the outflow of the pasty or semi-liquid product from the cartridge (4), and a second end (22) that is designed to be opened to allow removal and/or insertion of the cartridge (4).
Description
- The present invention relates to a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products. The refillable dispenser of the present invention is used in the field of packaging of pasty or semi-liquid products, namely toothpaste or alternatively food sauces, glues, detergents or the like.
- Containers for pasty products, such as toothpaste, food sauces or glues, are known in the art.
- These containers are typically in tube form and extend between a first end having a mouth configured to allow the outflow of the pasty product, and a second closed end.
- Prior art containers further comprise a cap for closing the mouth to prevent accidental spillage of the dispenser contents.
- Typically, these tubes are made of an easily deformable plastic material, for the user to be able to eject their contents by simply squeezing the tube.
- Inconveniently, prior art containers for pasty products are disposable, i.e. are discarded and replaced when empty. In particular, these prior art containers are typically made of plastic materials that cannot be easily recycled, whereby their use involves a significant environmental impact and a waste of raw materials.
- Therefore, the technical purpose of the present invention is to provide a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products that can obviate the aforementioned prior art drawbacks.
- In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products that is eco-friendly, i.e. not harmful to the environment.
- Also, an object of the present invention is to provide a refillable dispenser that simplifies the industrial production process, thereby reducing the end-user price of the product price.
- The aforementioned technical purpose and objects are substantially fulfilled by a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products which obviates the aforementioned prior art drawbacks.
- In particular, the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products of the present invention comprises a container having a cavity adapted to receive a cartridge containing a pasty or semi-liquid product, such as toothpaste.
- The container extends between a first end having a mouth configured to allow the outflow of the pasty or semi-liquid product, and a second openable end.
- Advantageously, the second openable end allows replacement of the cartridge. In detail, once the user has emptied the contents of the cartridge inserted in the container, he/she may replace it by pulling it out of the cavity and inserting a new one through the second openable end.
- Also, advantageously, since the cartridge of the refillable dispenser of the present invention is made of a light and soft material it may be formed from recyclable and\or compostable material, therefore the material of the cartridge can be recovered and reused to manufacture new products.
- Advantageously, the refillable dispenser object of the present invention is eco-friendly because it is refillable multiple times with the recyclable cartridge.
- Further features and advantages of the present invention will result more clearly from the illustrative, non-limiting description of a preferred, non-exclusive embodiment of a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products as shown in the annexed drawings, in which:
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Figure 1 shows a front view of a first embodiment of a refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products of the present invention; -
Figure 2 shows a bottom perspective view of the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products ofFigure 1 ; -
Figure 3 shows a front view of a cartridge of the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products ofFigure 1 ; -
Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a first detail of the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products ofFigure 1 ; -
Figure 5 shows a front view of a second detail of the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products ofFigure 1 ; -
Figure 6 shows a lateral view of a third detail of the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products ofFigure 1 ; -
Figure 7 shows a top view of a second embodiment of the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products of the present invention; -
Figure 8 shows a lateral view of the refillable dispenser for pasty or semi-liquid products ofFigure 7 . - Even when not expressly stated, the individual features as described with reference to the particular embodiments shall be intended as auxiliary to and/or interchangeable with other features described with reference to other exemplary embodiments.
- With reference to the accompanying figures, the present invention relates to a
refillable dispenser 1 for pasty or semi-liquid products, in particular for toothpaste. - As used herein, pasty or semi-liquid products refer to any substance having a semisolid or semi-liquid consistency such as creams, gels, cosmetic products, detergents, food sauces and glues.
- A first embodiment of the present invention particularly relates to a
refillable travel dispenser 1, i.e. arefillable dispenser 1 configured to be easily transported and stored for example in a vanity case or a bag. - A second embodiment of the present invention relates to a
refillable bench dispenser 1, i.e. arefillable dispenser 1 configured to stand on a flat surface, such as the surface of a sink or a bench. - Particularly referring to
Figures 1 ,2 ,7 and8 , therefillable dispenser 1 of the present invention comprises acontainer 2 extending between a first end and asecond end - In the first embodiment the
container 2 is deformable and is preferably made of flexible plastic material, such as plastic or high-density polyethylene laminates. - In the first embodiment, the first and
second ends container 2 is not deformed. - The
container 2 has acavity 20 configured to receive acartridge 4 containing a given amount of pasty or semi-liquid product. Further details about thecartridge 4 will be provided hereinbelow. - Preferably, the
cavity 20 extends in the longitudinal direction X-X from thefirst end 21 to thesecond end 22. - Preferably, in the first embodiment, the
container 2 is a tube having an enclosure made of flexible plastic material, which extends in the longitudinal direction X-X between the first andsecond ends - The
first end 21 has amouth 23 configured to allow the outflow of the pasty or semi-liquid product contained in thecartridge 4. More in detail, themouth 21 comprises a through hole which extends through themouth 23 to provide fluid communication of thecavity 20 with the outside. - Preferably, the
mouth 23 and the through hole extend from thefirst end 21 along the longitudinal direction X-X in a direction away from thesecond end 22. - The
mouth 23 of thefirst end 21 is configured to be associated with anopening 40 of thecartridge 4, to allow the outflow of the product in thecartridge 4 when pressure is applied on thecontainer 2. In other words, the through hole of themouth 23 is configured to be connected in fluid communication with the interior of thecartridge 4 via theopening 40. - In operation, a user applies a pressure on the
container 2 which deforms and hence pushes the product in thecartridge 4 out through themouth 23. - The refillable dispenser comprises a cap 3 adapted to be reversibly coupled with the
mouth 23 to close it. More in detail, as the cap 3 is coupled with themouth 23, it closes the through hole that allows the outflow of the product in thecartridge 4. The reversible coupling between the cap 3 and themouth 23 may be provided, for example, by means of a threaded connection, a bayonet connection, or any other type of known reversible mechanical connection. - The
second end 22 of thecontainer 2 is adapted to be opened to allow removal and/or introduction of thecartridge 4 from/into thecavity 20. In other words, thesecond end 22 is configured to allow replacement of thecartridge 4 once its contents have been completely emptied. - In the first embodiment as shown in
Figures 1 and2 , thesecond end 22 comprises a first edge and asecond edge second end 22 of thecontainer 2. - The
edges terminations 220, as shown inFigure 2 . - In addition, the
edges second end 22 is closed, the first andsecond edges second end 22 is open, the first andsecond edges terminations 220. - More in detail, when the
second end 22 is open, the first andsecond edges refill opening 24 which is designed to provide communication between thecavity 20 and the outside. The refill opening 24, and the first andsecond edges cartridge 4 into/from thecavity 20. - Preferably, the
refillable dispenser 1 comprises aclosure device 5 configured to seal thesecond end 22 of thecontainer 2 and keep it closed. - Referring to
Figure 2 , the closure device is integrated in thesecond end 22 of the container. More in detail, theclosure device 5 comprises agroove 50 extending along thefirst edge 22a of thesecond end 22, and aprojection 51 facing thegroove 50 and extending along thesecond edge 22b of thesecond end 22. - Preferably, the
groove 50 and theprojection 51 extend transverse to the longitudinal direction X-X to thereby connect theends 220 of theedges groove 50 and theprojection 51 extend perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X-X. - The
groove 50 and theprojection 51 are configured to be reversibly coupled to allow thesecond end 22 of thecontainer 2 to be opened and closed. - The
second end 22 is closed when theprojection 51 is received within thegroove 50 to form an interference fit, and is open when theprojection 51 and thegroove 50 are spaced apart. - In order to open the
second end 22, the user must separate theedges projection 51 from thegroove 50. Likewise, in order to close thesecond end 22, the user must press one edge against the other 22a, 22b to accommodate theprojection 51 in thegroove 50. - Alternatively, referring to
Figure 4 , theclosure device 5 is a device configured to be placed at thesecond end 22 to keep it closed. - More in detail, as shown in
Figure 4 , theclosure device 5 comprises a pair of opposablepressing surfaces 52 which can be commuted between a first closed configuration in which thepressing surfaces 52 are close together and press theedges second end 22 against each other, and an open configuration in which thepressing surfaces 52 are spaced apart. - Preferably, the
closure device 5 comprises ahinge 53 for pivotally constraining thepressing surfaces 52 about a hinge pivot axis C-C, as shown inFigure 4 . As thepressing surfaces 52 rotate relative to each other about the hinge pivot axis C-C they are commuted between the closed and open configurations. - Furthermore, preferably, still with reference to
Figure 4 , theclosure device 5 comprises aclosing mechanism 54 which is configured to keep thepressing surfaces 52 close together in the closed configuration. - Preferably, the
closure device 5 also has a safety function, in that, if thecartridge 4 is punctured or broken, it prevents its contents from escaping from thesecond end 22 of thecontainer 2. In other words, theclosure device 5 is equipped with means adapted to close thesecond end 22 of thecontainer 2 in a fluid-tight manner to prevent the contents of thecartridge 4 from escaping whenever the latter is accidentally broken. - Preferably, the
refillable dispenser 1 comprises a squeezing device 6 which is configured to assist the user to eject the pasty or semi-liquid product from thecartridge 4 by keeping it under pressure. - In the first embodiment, the squeezing device 6 can be applied between the first and second ends 21, 22 of the
container 2 and is configured to slide, as the product is being used, from the second end to thefirst end first end container 2 and causes the product contained in thecartridge 4 to flow out of themouth 23. - In the first embodiment of
Figure 5 , the squeezing device 6 comprises a C-shapedmain body 60 specially sized to compress thecontainer 2 on opposite sides, thereby deforming it. - Advantageously, the squeezing device 6 facilitates the user to deform/squeeze the
container 2 of therefillable dispenser 1 to extract the pasty or semi-liquid product from thecartridge 4. - Preferably, the
refillable dispenser 1 comprises alock system 7, which is adapted to prevent the squeezing device 6 from moving from the first end to thesecond end container 2. - More in detail, in the first embodiment of
Figures 1 and2 , thelock system 7 comprises atextured guide 71 extending outside thecontainer 2 between the first and second ends 21, 22 along the longitudinal direction X-X. - In addition, the
lock system 7 comprises aslider 72 configured to slide in thetextured guide 71 from the second end to thefirst end Figure 5 , theslider 72 is placed on themain body 60 of the squeezing device 6, so that when the squeezing device 6 moves from the second end to thefirst end container 2, theslider 72 will slide in thetextured guide 71 and prevent any back movement of the squeezing device 6. - Referring to
Figure 6 , theslider 72 and thetextured guide 71 has each a plurality of complementary shaped teeth which ensures a one-way relative movement thereof, here coinciding with that the direction from the second end to thefirst end - The second embodiment of
Figures 7 ,8 is similar to the first embodiment ofFigures 1 and2 , but with arigid container 2. - More in detail, the
container 2 of the second embodiment comprises a pair of half-shells 25 that are designed to be coupled together to define thecavity 20 that is adapted to contain thecartridge 4. - The half-
shells 25 are movable to commute therefillable dispenser 1 between a use configuration in which the half-shells 25 abut against each and define thecavity 20, and a refill configuration in which the half-shells 25 are spaced apart to allow the user to access thecavity 20, e.g. to replace thecartridge 4 or clean it. - Preferably, the
container 2 comprises a plurality ofhinges 26 which are adapted to pivotally constrain the half-shells 25 about an axis of rotation R-R. As the half-shells 25 respectively pivot about the axis of rotation R-R, they commute therefillable dispenser 2 between the use configuration and the refill configuration. The use configuration is shown inFigure 8 , whereas the refill configuration is shown inFigure 7 . - In the second embodiment, the squeezing device is configured to deform the
cartridge 4 so that the product contained therein will flow through theopening 40 of thecartridge 4 and out of themouth 23. - More in detail, the squeezing device is mechanically operable by means of a
manual pressure mechanism 62 located on a half-shell 25, otherwise, in alternative embodiments, it is driven with the same principle by an electric motor that can be actuated by means of a push-button 61 located on thecontainer 2. - Referring to
Figure 8 , if therefillable dispenser 1 is configured to dispense toothpaste, then thecontainer 2 may comprise, at themouth 23, asupport surface 27 for supporting atoothbrush 100. - Furthermore, the present invention relates to a kit comprising a
refillable dispenser 1 for pasty or semi-liquid products as discussed above, and acartridge 4 containing the pasty or semi-liquid product. - More in detail, the
cartridge 4 is configured to reversibly fit into thecavity 20 of thecontainer 2 through the secondopenable end 22. Even more in detail, in the first embodiment, the cartridge can be inserted and removed into/from thecavity 20 of thecontainer 2 through the refill opening 24 defined by the first andsecond edges second end 22 when they are spaced apart. - The
cartridge 4 is deformable and has apocket 41 adapted to receive the pasty or semi-liquid product, and is preferably made of a flexible plastic material. - The
cartridge 4 has a bottom 42 that closes the bottom of thepocket 41. In the first embodiment, the bottom 42 is configured to be locked between the first edge and thesecond edge second end 22, when thecartridge 4 is fitted in thecavity 20 and the second end (22) is closed. - In the second embodiment, the bottom 42 is configured to be locked between the first edge and
second edge second end 22, when thecartridge 4 is fitted in thecavity 20 and thesecond end 22 is closed as the half-shells 25 are coupled together. - The bottom 42 of the
cartridge 4 may be formed, for example, by heat-sealing. - The
cartridge 4 also has a top 43 comprising anopening 40 configured to cause the contents of thepocket 41 to flow out of thecartridge 4. As mentioned above, theopening 40 of thecartridge 4 is configured to be associated with themouth 23 of the container when thecartridge 4 is fitted in thecavity 20. - The
opening 40 is closed by aremovable tab 44 configured to prevent the pasty or semi-liquid product from flowing out of thepocket 41 before insertion into thecavity 20. - The
removable tab 44 must be removed manually by the user before fitting the cartridge into thecavity 20 of thecontainer 2. - Preferably, the
cartridge 4 is made of a recyclable material such as polyethylene films and/or biodegradable and compostable films according to the product contained therein, for environment protection.
Claims (12)
- A refillable dispenser (1) for pasty or semi-liquid products, comprising:- a container (2) having a cavity (20), the container (2) extending between a first end and a second end (21, 22), the first end (21) having a mouth (23) configured to allow the outflow of a pasty or semi-liquid product,- a cap (3) adapted to be reversibly coupled to the mouth (23) to close it;characterized in that:- the cavity (20) is configured to receive a cartridge (4) containing the pasty or semi-liquid product;- the mouth (23) is adapted to be associated with an opening (40) of said cartridge (4) and is configured to allow the outflow of the pasty or semi-liquid product from the cartridge (4) when a pressure is applied to the container (2);- the second end (22) of the container (2) is adapted to be opened to allow removal and/or introduction of the cartridge (4).
- A refillable dispenser (1) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the container (2) is deformable.
- A refillable dispenser (1) as claimed in claim 1 or 2 , wherein the second end (22) comprises a first edge and a second edge (22a, 22b) which are opposite and movable relative to each other to open and close the second end (22) of the container (2), the edges (22a, 22b) being adapted to be reversibly fixed to each other.
- A refillable dispenser (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, comprising a closure device (5) configured to keep the second end (22) of the container (2) closed.
- A refillable dispenser (1) as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the closure device (5) comprises:- a groove (50) extending along the first edge (22a) of the second end (22);- a projection (51) extending along the second edge (22b) of the second end (22), the projection (51) facing the groove (50);the groove (50) and the projection (51) being adapted to be reversibly coupled to allow the second end (22) of the container (2) to be opened and closed.
- A refillable dispenser (1) as claimed in claim 4 wherein the closure device (5) comprises a pair of opposable pressing surfaces (52) which can be commuted between a closed configuration in which the pressing surfaces (52) are close together and press the edges (22a, 22b) of the second end (22) against each other, and an open configuration in which the pressing surfaces (52) are spaced apart.
- A refillable dispenser (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims comprising a squeezing device (6) adapted to be applied between the first and second ends (21, 22) of the container (2), the squeezing device (6) being configured to slide from the second end to the first end (22, 21) to cause the pasty or semi-liquid product of the cartridge (4) to come out of the mouth (23).
- A refillable dispenser (1) as claimed in the preceding claim comprising a lock system (7), which is adapted to prevent the squeezing device (6) from moving from the first end to the second end (21, 22) when the squeezing device (6) is applied between the first and second ends (21, 22) of the container (2).
- A refillable dispenser (1) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the container 2 comprises a pair of half-shells (25) which are adapted to be coupled to define the cavity (20), the half-shells (25) being movable relative to each other to commute the refillable dispenser 1 between a use configuration in which the half-shells (25) abut against each other and define the cavity (20) and a refill configuration in which the half-shells (25) are spaced apart to allow access to the cavity (20).
- A kit comprising a refillable dispenser (1) for pasty or semi-liquid products as claimed in any of the preceding claims, and a cartridge (4) adapted to be reversibly fitted into the cavity (20) of the container (2) via the second openable end (22), the cartridge (4) being deformable and having a pocket (41) for receiving the pasty or semi-liquid product.
- A kit as claimed in claim 10, wherein the cartridge (3) comprises:- a bottom (42) adapted to be locked between the first and second edges (22a, 22b) of the second end (22) when the cartridge (4) is fitted in the cavity (20) and the second end (22) is closed;- a top (43) having an opening (40) closed by a removable tab (44).
- A kit as claimed in claim 11, wherein the cartridge (4) is made of a recyclable and/or compostable material.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
IT102020000021283A IT202000021283A1 (en) | 2020-09-09 | 2020-09-09 | REFILLABLE DISPENSER FOR PASTY OR SEMILIQUID PRODUCTS |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3967620A1 true EP3967620A1 (en) | 2022-03-16 |
Family
ID=73643163
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP21153071.2A Withdrawn EP3967620A1 (en) | 2020-09-09 | 2021-01-22 | Refillable dispenser for semiliquid or paste-like products |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP3967620A1 (en) |
IT (1) | IT202000021283A1 (en) |
Citations (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2608320A (en) * | 1947-03-31 | 1952-08-26 | Jr Joseph R Harrison | Pump type dispenser with cartridge having flexible and rigid portions |
DE2909181A1 (en) * | 1979-03-08 | 1980-09-11 | Jiri Janik | Refillable tube for paste - has open rear end with releasable closure clamp for inserting flexible cartridge with contents |
JPS55129643U (en) * | 1979-03-09 | 1980-09-12 | ||
US4445609A (en) * | 1982-06-28 | 1984-05-01 | Sasson Jeans, Inc. | Refillable soft tube for packaging liquid or paste products such as toothpaste, polish, shaving cream or the like |
CN87203577U (en) * | 1987-03-14 | 1988-03-16 | 刘亚民 | Squeezing-box for paste-form chemical products of daily use |
US20100072224A1 (en) * | 2008-09-25 | 2010-03-25 | Minna Ha | Fillable and/or refillable tube |
US20100279040A1 (en) * | 2009-05-01 | 2010-11-04 | Ellery West | Paper Jar Packaging With Coated Double Side Walls |
US20180155090A1 (en) * | 2016-06-01 | 2018-06-07 | Gennady I. Kleyman | Integrated squeezable dispensing container |
-
2020
- 2020-09-09 IT IT102020000021283A patent/IT202000021283A1/en unknown
-
2021
- 2021-01-22 EP EP21153071.2A patent/EP3967620A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2608320A (en) * | 1947-03-31 | 1952-08-26 | Jr Joseph R Harrison | Pump type dispenser with cartridge having flexible and rigid portions |
DE2909181A1 (en) * | 1979-03-08 | 1980-09-11 | Jiri Janik | Refillable tube for paste - has open rear end with releasable closure clamp for inserting flexible cartridge with contents |
JPS55129643U (en) * | 1979-03-09 | 1980-09-12 | ||
US4445609A (en) * | 1982-06-28 | 1984-05-01 | Sasson Jeans, Inc. | Refillable soft tube for packaging liquid or paste products such as toothpaste, polish, shaving cream or the like |
CN87203577U (en) * | 1987-03-14 | 1988-03-16 | 刘亚民 | Squeezing-box for paste-form chemical products of daily use |
US20100072224A1 (en) * | 2008-09-25 | 2010-03-25 | Minna Ha | Fillable and/or refillable tube |
US20100279040A1 (en) * | 2009-05-01 | 2010-11-04 | Ellery West | Paper Jar Packaging With Coated Double Side Walls |
US20180155090A1 (en) * | 2016-06-01 | 2018-06-07 | Gennady I. Kleyman | Integrated squeezable dispensing container |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
IT202000021283A1 (en) | 2022-03-09 |
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