GB2558952A

GB2558952A - Liquid delivery system

Info

Publication number: GB2558952A
Application number: GB1701175.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Charles Bloomberg Anthony
Original assignee: Newbury Tech Ltd
Current assignee: Newbury Tech Ltd
Priority date: 2017-01-24
Filing date: 2017-01-24
Publication date: 2018-07-25
Anticipated expiration: 2037-01-24
Also published as: GB201701175D0; GB2558952B

Abstract

A container cap 10 comprising means 36 for connecting cap to container 48, reservoir 42 for storing liquid and means for releasing liquid into container. The cap may release a measured dose of liquid into the container, and may comprise a dispensing element which may be a pipette 26 or nozzle. The cap may comprise an inner 20 and outer 12 case, the reservoir may be partially defined by the inner case. The volume of the reservoir may be variable depending on the relative position of the inner case within the outer case. The inner case may be movable between an open position and a closed position, the reservoir may be bigger in the open position and may be sealed from the container in the open or closed position. The reservoir may be in fluid communication when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open and closed position. The cap may have a locking mechanism to lock the inner case in at least one of the open and closed position. The inner case may be movable within the outer case. Also disclosed is a method of dispensing liquid.

Description

(71) Applicant(s):

Newbury Technologies Ltd.

Hackbridge Park Gardens, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 2HD, United Kingdom (72) Inventor(s):

Anthony Charles Bloomberg (56) Documents Cited:

EP 0520616 A WO 2014/032866 A WO 2006/052827 A (58) Field of Search:

INT CL B01L, B65D Other: WPI, EPODOC,

WO 2015/140423 A WO 2009/127039 A US 6926138 A (74) Agent and/or Address for Service:

CSY London

Fetter Lane, London, EC4A 1BR, United Kingdom (54) Title of the Invention: Liquid delivery system Abstract Title: LIQUID DELIVERY SYSTEM (57) A container cap 10 comprising means 36 for connecting cap to container 48, reservoir 42 for storing liquid and means for releasing liquid into container. The cap may release a measured dose of liquid into the container, and may comprise a dispensing element which may be a pipette 26 or nozzle. The cap may comprise an inner 20 and outer 12 case, the reservoir may be partially defined by the inner case. The volume of the reservoir may be variable depending on the relative position of the inner case within the outer case. The inner case may be movable between an open position and a closed position, the reservoir may be bigger in the open position and may be sealed from the container in the open or closed position. The reservoir may be in fluid communication when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open and closed position. The cap may have a locking mechanism to lock the inner case in at least one of the open and closed position.

The inner case may be movable within the outer case. Also disclosed is a method of dispensing liquid.

FIG.1

At least one drawing originally filed was informal and the print reproduced here is taken from a later filed formal copy.

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FIG.9

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FIG.10

LIQUID DELIVERY SYSTEM

The present invention relates to a liquid delivery system, and in particular to a liquid delivery system for storing, mixing and/or dispensing liquids. The present invention has particular, but not exclusive, application as a liquid delivery system for delivering liquid to vaping devices such as electronic cigarettes.

Electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, have been developed mainly as a response to the health risks associated with smoking tobacco. E-cigarettes work by vaporising a liquid which is then inhaled by the user. E-cigarettes typically comprise a mouthpiece, a tank, an atomizer, a control unit, and a battery. The liquid to be vaporised (the “e-liquid”) is contained in the tank. The atomizer comprises a wicking material that draws the e-liquid onto a heating element. When the user pushes a button or activates a pressure sensor by inhaling, the heating element atomises the e-liquid to create an aerosolized vapour which is inhaled by the user.

The global e-cigarette product market was initially dominated by disposable ecigarettes. However rechargeable e-cigarettes and other types of vaping device which allow the user to refill the device are now increasing common. As a consequence, there is a rapidly growing market for e-liquids. Meanwhile, regulatory and policy frameworks are being put into place in different jurisdictions around the world. For example, the European Union’s Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) specifies rules for nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes and refill containers.

E-liquids typically comprise a base (or carrier) of propylene glycol (PG) and/or vegetable glycerine (VG), together with nicotine and flavourings. The base holds the nicotine and flavour in suspension so the vaporizer can produce clouds of smoke-like vapour. The e-liquid is typically supplied ready-mixed in bottles having a range of different nicotine strengths and flavourings.

Both propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine are non-toxic organic compounds and generally considered safe for consumption. They are widely used as food additives in a variety of commercially available food and personal care products. However nicotine is highly toxic and as such its use is highly regulated.

The current solution for e-liquid dispensing in the European Union is 10ml PET bottles, which are modified from other applications to meet TPD and CLP (classification, labelling and packaging) regulations. The bottles may be provided with unicorn dropper nozzles to facilitate delivery of the e-liquid to the tank of the vaping device. When the bottle is filled the unicorn dropper nozzle is inserted into the bottle and then the bottle is capped.

However various disadvantages have been identified in the current e-liquid dispensing bottles. These include the following:

1. If the bottle is squeezed hard enough the unicorn cap can be dislodged releasing the e-liquid.

2. If the cap is lost the bottle is no longer child resistant.

3. The bottles are usually clear which allows for UV contamination or deterioration of the nicotine in the liquid, such as decolouration (darkening) of the liquid.

4. Loss of the cap may result in the bottle no longer complying with regulations (such as ISO3817).

5. The CLP triangle is often applied after manufacture and can be removed.

It would therefore be desirable to provide a liquid delivery system which addresses one or more of the above issues, and/or which provides a convenient means of delivering e-liquids to vaping devices such as e-cigarettes.

It would also be desirable to provide a stand-alone TPD and CPL compliant eliquid dispensing bottle for the European Union and an e-liquid dispensing cap for the European Union and rest of the world. This would be an e-liquid/ingredient release dispensing bottle for dispensing of one or more e-liquid/ingredients into another container with measured dosing.

It would also be desirable to provide a dispensing bottle that is activated using a push-pull dispensing activator and unicorn nozzle that allows the user to dispense the stored ingredients with accuracy into another container and stay ISO 8317 compliant in resting state.

It would also be desirable to provide a dispensing unit that can be used as a cap for dispensing ingredients into a primary container that includes a liquid for mixing with the mechanism remaining ISO 8317 compliant via a rotational child safety lock.

It would also be desirable to provide a method of manufacturing a dosing bottle such that the body and workings of a dose bottle can be moulded in one piece and other elements can be attached.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a cap for a container, the cap comprising means for connecting the cap to the container, a reservoir for storing a liquid, and means for releasing at least part of the liquid from the reservoir into the container.

The present invention may provide the advantage that, by providing the cap with a reservoir for storing a liquid, and with means for releasing at least part of the liquid from the reservoir into the container, the cap can be used as a storage vessel for storing a liquid for subsequent mixing with another substance. For example, the cap may be used to store active ingredients of an e-liquid such as nicotine and/or flavourings for subsequent mixing with a base. This can provide greater flexibility in the distribution, storage and delivery of liquids such as eliquids. Furthermore, the present invention may allow the active ingredient of an e-liquid to be stored more securely, and with a decreased risk of contamination or deterioration. Since the active ingredient is stored in the cap itself, it can be ensured that the cap is always compliant with regulatory requirements. In addition, the CLP triangle can be applied during manufacture, thereby ensuring that it is securely attached.

The cap may be arranged for threaded engagement with the container. Thus the means for connecting the cap to the container may be a screw thread. For example, the cap may have an internal thread, which may be arranged to engage with an external thread on a neck of the container. The container may be, for example, a bottle or other similar container with a threaded neck. Alternatively the container may be a base unit with a discharge chamber.

Preferably the cap is arranged to release a measured dose of the liquid from the reservoir into the bottle. The volume of the measured dose may be defined by the size of the reservoir, or by the size of the container. For example in one embodiment the volume of the measured dose may be defined by the size of a discharge chamber within a base unit.

Preferably the cap is a dispensing cap. Thus the cap may further comprise a dispensing element for dispensing liquid from the container. The dispensing element may be, for example, a pipette or a nozzle, such as a unicorn dropper nozzle. This can allow the cap to function both as a vessel for storing a liquid, and as a dispenser for dispensing the liquid (either on its own or mixed with another substance). This in turn may provide greater flexibility and convenience in the distribution, storage and delivery of liquids such as e-liquids

Preferably the cap comprises an inner case and an outer case. In this case the reservoir may be at least partially defined by part of the inner case. This may help to ensure secure and stable storage of the liquid.

Preferably the inner case is movable within the outer case. For example, the cap may have a central axis, and the inner case may be is arranged to slide axially within the outer case. This may assist with release of the liquid from the reservoir into the container.

In order to facilitate relative movement of the inner case and outer case, the cap may comprise a sliding mechanism which guides movement of the inner case within the outer case. The sliding mechanism may comprise, for example, a protrusion on one of the inner case and the outer case which engages with a channel in the other of the inner case and outer case, or any other suitable mechanism for guiding movement.

In one embodiment the volume of the reservoir is variable in dependence on the relative position of the inner case within the outer case. This may allow pressure to be applied to the liquid, to assist with its release into the container. For example, the user may move the inner case relative to the outer case such that the volume of the reservoir is reduced, which may cause liquid to be released into the container. However in other embodiments the volume of the reservoir is substantially constant and other forces such as gravity are used to release the liquid into the container.

Preferably the inner case is movable between an open position, in which the inner case is (fully) extended with respect to the outer case, and a closed position in which the inner case is (fully) retracted within the outer case. In one embodiment the volume of the reservoir is larger in the open position than in the closed position.

Preferably the reservoir is sealed from the container when the inner case is in the open position and/or when the inner case is in the closed position. This may help to prevent inadvertent release of the liquid.

Preferably the reservoir is in fluid communication with the container when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position. This may facilitate controlled release of the liquid from the reservoir to the container.

Preferably the cap comprises a locking mechanism arranged to lock the inner case in at least one of the open position and the closed position. This may help to prevent inadvertent release of liquid from the reservoir, and may help to ensure that the cap remains compliant with the appropriate regulations.

The locking mechanism may be, for example, of the type which is unlocked when the inner case is rotated with respect to the outer case (for example, about a central axis). In this case, the locking mechanism may require pressure to be applied to the outer case in order to rotate the inner case with respect to the outer case. Thus the locking mechanism may be a squeeze and twist type locking mechanism. Alternatively, the locking mechanism may be arranged such that a certain degree of rotational force is required for it to be released, without the need for squeezing.

Preferably the inner case is arranged to connect to the container. For example, the inner case may have an internal thread, which may be arranged for threaded engagement with a neck of the container (such as a bottle). By connecting the inner case to the container, the user may use the container for purchase when twisting or otherwise moving the inner case relative to the outer case. This can make it easier for the user to move the inner case relative to the outer case when the cap is connected to a container. Furthermore, this may help to ensure that a locking mechanism is only released when the cap is connected to the container, thereby helping to prevent inadvertent release of the liquid.

The cap may further comprise a tubular member which passes through the inside of the cap. The tubular member may comprise an internal passage. The tubular member may allow fluid from the container to be dispensed through the internal passage.

Preferably an outside surface of the tubular member partially defines the reservoir. In this case the reservoir may be annular in form, and may surround part of the tubular member. For example, the tubular member may pass through the inside of the inner case, and the reservoir may be at least partially defined by a space between the outside surface of the tubular member, and the inside surface of the inner member. Thus the tubular member may serve the dual function of allowing fluid from the container to be dispensed, and forming part of the wall of the reservoir.

The cap may comprise a seal between the tubular member and the inner case. The seal may help to contain liquid within the reservoir.

The tubular member may comprise at least one channel on its outside surface. The channel may allow fluid to flow from the reservoir to the container when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position. This can allow liquid to be released from the reservoir to the container in a controlled manner when the inner case is in an intermediate position.

Preferably the channel is located such that it aligns with the seal when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position. Furthermore, the channel may be located such that it does not align with the seal when the inner case is in the open position or the closed position. This can prevent liquid from being released in the open or closed positions.

In one embodiment of the invention the tubular member is in the form of a pipette. In this case the cap may further comprise a bulb connected to one end of the pipette. In use, the pipette may extend into the container, and may be used by the user to withdraw liquid from the container for delivery to an external device such as a vaping device.

In another embodiment of the invention the tubular member is in the form of a plunger. In this case the cap may further comprise a closure wall which is arranged to isolate the reservoir from the container when the inner case is in the open position. The plunger may then be arranged to push through the closure wall when the inner case is moved between the open position and the closed position. As the plunger is pushed through the container wall, channels on the outside of the plunger may provide passageways for the fluid, allowing the fluid to flow from the reservoir to the container. However the closure wall may isolate the reservoir from the container when the inner case is in the closed position. Thus the reservoir may be in fluid communication with the container only when the inner case is in the intermediate position.

In this embodiment the plunger is preferably connected to a dispensing nozzle, such as a unicorn nozzle. Thus liquid may be dispensed from the container, through the plunger and the nozzle, to an external device.

In one use of this embodiment, the container is a base unit which is connected to the cap.

Thus, according to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a dispensing unit comprising a dispensing cap according to any of the preceding claims, and a base unit connected to the cap.

The base unit may comprise a discharge chamber for receiving a predetermined quantity of fluid from the reservoir. The predetermined quantity may be determined by the volume of the discharge chamber. This can allow the discharge chamber to define a measured quantity of liquid which is to be dispensed. For example, the discharge chamber may be used to define a measured quantity of the active ingredients of an e-liquid which are to be dispensed for mixing with a base.

The cap may be arranged such that the plunger moves into the discharge chamber when the inner housing is moved into the closed position. Movement of the inner housing into the closed position may reduce the volume of the discharge chamber, causing liquid contained in the discharge chamber to be dispensed. For example, the liquid may be dispensed through an internal passage of the plunger and a dispensing nozzle.

Preferably the volume of the discharge chamber is less than that of the reservoir. This can allow the cap to dispense a plurality of measured doses of liquid from the reservoir.

Preferably the base unit is removable from the cap. For example, the base unit may be arranged for threaded engagement with the cap, and it may be possible to unscrew the base unit from the cap. In this case the cap with the base unit removed may be connectable to another container. For example, the base unit may be unscrewed from the cap to reveal a screw thread which can be used to attach the cap to a container such as a bottle.

In another use of this embodiment, the base unit is removed from the cap, and the cap is attached to another container such as a bottle. In this case, when the cap is connected to another container, the contents of the reservoir may be released into the container when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position. Thus, in this use, the entire contents of the reservoir may be released into the container in one action.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention the cap or dispensing unit is arranged for dispensing e-liquids. Thus the reservoir may contain an active ingredient of an e-liquid (such as nicotine and/or flavouring) for mixing with a base.

However the cap or dispensing unit could alternatively be used for dispensing other products such as beverages, cleaning products, pharmaceuticals, and other chemicals and substances.

In any of the above arrangements the cap may be made from an opaque or semitransparent material. This may reduce the risk of UV contamination or deterioration of the liquid contained in the reservoir. A CLP triangle may be applied to the cap during manufacture.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a method of dispensing a liquid, the method comprising storing the liquid in a reservoir in a cap, connecting the cap to a container, and releasing at least part of the liquid from the reservoir into the container.

The cap may comprise an inner case and an outer case which are movable with respect to each other, and the method may comprise moving the inner case with respect to the outer case in order to release liquid from the reservoir into the container.

Features of one aspect of the invention may be provided with any other aspect. Apparatus features may be provided with method aspects and vice versa.

Preferred features of the present invention will now be described, purely by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows parts of a dispensing cap in its initial, charged state in a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 shows the dispensing cap of Figure 1 in its discharged state; Figure 3 is a cross section through part of a cap and bottle in the first embodiment;

Figure 4 shows parts of a dispensing cap in its closed or discharged state in a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5 shows the dispensing cap of Figure 4 in the pre-charged or open state;

Figure 6 shows the dispensing cap of Figure 4 in the half-open, charging state;

Figure 7 is a cross section through the plunger in the dispensing cap of Figure 4;

Figure 8 is an external view of the dispensing cap of Figure 4, packaged for supply to the user; and

Figures 9 and 10 illustrate an alternative use of the dispensing cap of Figure 4.

In a first embodiment of the invention a dispensing cap is provided which stores a measured dose of a liquid to be supplied to an external container such as a bottle. For example, the dispensing cap may store active ingredients of an eliquid such as nicotine and/or flavourings to be supplied to a bottle containing a base such as propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine.

Figure 1 shows parts of a dispensing cap in accordance with the first embodiment. Referring to Figure 1, the dispensing cap 10 is shown connected to a bottle 48, which in this example is a 10ml PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottle. The dispensing cap 10 comprises an outer case 12 which is constructed from a high density extruded plastic, or other suitable material. The outer case has an essentially cylindrical main portion 14, a disc shaped top portion 16, and a cylindrical internal portion 18 which extends inside the cap from the top portion

16.

The cap 10 also includes an inner case 20. The inner case 20 is essentially cylindrical, and is located inside the outer case 12. The inner case 20 may be made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or any other suitable non-reactive material. The inner case 20 has protrusions 22 on its outside surface which engage with grooves 24 on the inside of the outer case 12. The protrusions 22 and grooves 24 form a slider mechanism, which allows the inner case 20 to slide axially within the outer case 12. As will be discussed later, in some positions it is also possible for the inner case 20 to rotate relative to the outer case 12 through a certain angle about the centre axis.

A pipette 26 passes through the cap 10 and into the bottle 48. The pipette is in the form of a narrow tube with an internal passage 29 passing from one end to the other. The lower part of the pipette 28 is designed for insertion into the bottle 48, and ends in a tip 28. The upper part of the pipette engages with the cap 10, and is connected to a bulb 30. The pipette 26 is made from a rigid non-reactive material such as glass or PET, while the bulb 30 is made from a flexible, nonreactive material such as latex rubber. Squeezing the bulb 30 expels fluid from the pipette through the tip 28, while releasing the squeezed bulb draws fluid through the tip into the pipette, in a known manner.

The bulb 30 has a cylindrical part 32 which extends inside the cylindrical internal portion 18 of the outer case 12, and around the end of the pipette 26. The cylindrical part 32 terminates in a disc shaped end portion 34. The end portion 34 engages with the end of the cylindrical internal portion 18 of the outer case 12. This provides a seal between the pipette 26 on one hand and the outer case 12 on the other hand.

The inner case 20 has an internal thread 36 which screws onto an external thread on the neck of the bottle 48. An annular protrusion 38 inside the inner case 20 engages with an annular seal 40. When the cap 10 is screwed onto the bottle 48 the annular protrusion 38 presses the annular seal 40 against the top of the bottle in order to provide a seal. The annular seal 40 also surrounds and provides a seal against the pipette 26.

In Figure 1 the cap 10 is shown in its initial, charged state. In this state, the inner case 20, together with the outside of the pipette 26 and the bottom of the disc shaped end portion 34 define an internal reservoir 42 for storing a liquid which is to be dispensed into the bottle 48. For example, the reservoir 42 may store active ingredients of an e-liquid such as nicotine and/or flavourings which are to be supplied to the bottle 48, while the bottle may contain a base such as propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine.

In order to release the cap from its initial, charged state, it is necessary to rotate the inner case 20 with respect to the outer case 12. Twisting the inner case with respect to the outer case through an angle of, for example, 10° locates the protrusions 22 on the inner case 20 within the grooves 24. This allows the protrusions 22 to slide within the grooves 24, and hence allows the inner case 20 to slide axially within the outer case 12.

The cap 10 is held in the initial charged state by virtue of a locking mechanism similar to a child lock mechanism. This locking mechanism comprises a plurality of small protrusions on the inside of the outer case 20 which engage with corresponding protrusions on the outside of the inner case 20. The respective protrusions overlap slightly, such that a certain degree of resistance needs to be overcome before the inner case 20 can be rotated with respect to the outer case

12. As the inner case is rotated relative to the outer case, a small amount of plastic deformation takes place to allow the rotation.

When the cap 10 is screwed onto the bottle 48, the resistance provided by the locking mechanism can be overcome by twisting the bottle (and hence the inner case 20) with respect to the outer case 12. With the cap attached to the bottle it is relatively easy to accomplish this action since the bottle allows the user to obtain purchase for twisting. However when the cap is not attached to a bottle very little purchase is available for twisting the inner case. Hence, with no bottle attached, it is difficult to release the cap from its initial charged state. This provides protection against accidental release of the contents of the cap before it is connected to a bottle.

Once the inner case 20 has been twisted through the appropriate angle, the user is able to push the outer case 12 downwards against the bottle. This causes the outer case 12 together with the pipette 26 and the bulb 30 to slide downwards with respect to the inner case 20 and the bottle 48. The action of pushing the outer case downwards causes the disc shaped end portion 34 and the protrusion 38 to move towards each other, thereby decreasing the volume of the reservoir 42. At the same time, as the pipette 26 moves through the inner case 20, channels 44 on the outer surface of the pipette move into the location of the seal

40. The channels 44 break the contact between the pipette 28 and the seal 40, and thus open up passages between the reservoir 42 and the bottle 48. This allows liquid from the reservoir 42 to flow into the bottle 48 under pressure from the decreasing volume of the reservoir, as well as gravity.

Figure 2 shows the cap 10 in the discharged state, with the contents of the reservoir 42 released into the bottle 48. Once the contents of the reservoir have been released into the bottle, they mix with the contents of the bottle. The mixed contents can then be dispensed by unscrewing the cap 10 from the bottle 48, and using the pipette 26 and bulb 30 in the normal manner.

Figure 3 is a cross section through part of the cap and bottle in one implementation. Referring to Figure 3, the inner case 20 is able to slide axially within the outer case 12, in the direction of the centre axis 49. In order to release the locking mechanism, the inner case is rotated about the axis 49, with respect to the outer case.

A second embodiment of the invention provides a liquid dispensing cap that is self-contained and also capable of being mounted on a primary container for storing liquids to be dispensed directly from the unit or into the primary container contents at time of use, and specifically to a dispensing cap having an ingredient storage chamber of (for example) 10ml and a push-pull unicorn delivery spout (with a capillary through passage) that is used to dispense the stored ingredients.

In the second embodiment a dispensing cap is provided which allows one or more measured doses of a liquid to be stored until the time of use. For example, the dispensing cap may allow active ingredients of an e-liquid such as nicotine and/or flavourings to be stored for subsequent mixing with a base. The stored ingredients in the cap are dispensed manually into a dispensing reservoir of 2ml for dispensing. The dispensing cap includes a push-pull, flow-through unicorn tipped spout with a fluid valve for opening and closing the fluid flow from the primary container. The dispensing body includes several elements all of which are formed in a single moulded cap body. The storage chamber of the dispensing bottle includes a primary 10ml reservoir that can be partially opened by manually activating an extension of bottom and top sections by squeezing a child safety lock. Returning the self-contained unit to standard child safe state dispenses a measured dose of 2m of liquid. The dispending cap can also be threadably attached to a bottle with the appropriate thread.

Figure 4 shows parts of a dispensing cap in the second embodiment. Referring to Figure 4, the dispensing cap 50 comprises an outer case 52 which is constructed from a high density extruded plastic, or other suitable material. The outer case 52 has an essentially cylindrical main portion 53 and a disc shaped top portion 55 with an integral unicorn dropper nozzle 56. A charge/discharge plunger 58 extends inside the cap from the top portion 55. The charge/discharge plunger 58 is in the form of a narrow tube. An internal passage 59 passes through the dropper nozzle 56 and charge/discharge plunger 58.

The cap 50 also comprises an inner case 54. The inner case 54 is essentially cylindrical, and is located inside the outer case 52, and around the charge/discharge plunger 58. The inner case 54, together with the plunger 58, defines a primary reservoir 60 for storing a liquid which is to be dispensed. The inner case 54 may be made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or any other suitable non-reactive material.

The inner case 54 has protrusions 66 on its outside surface which engage with grooves 68 on the inside of the outer case 52. The protrusions 66 and grooves 68 form a slider mechanism, which allows the inner case 54 to slide axially within the outer case 52. As discussed below, in some positions it is also possible for the inner case 54 to rotate relative to the outer case 52 through a certain angle about the centre axis.

Between the inner case 54 and the outer case 52 there are three channels (not shown) with springs that are compressed in the state shown in Figure 4. O-rings 62, 64 are provided between the inner case 54 and the plunger 58 to seal the inner case 54 around the plunger 58. A closure wall 70 is provided beneath the reservoir 60. The closure wall is made from hard and soft compounds such as silicon which open and close in dependence on the state of the device.

The dispensing cap shown in Figure 4 includes a base 72 at its lower end. The base 72 may be made from a high density moulded plastic or any other suitable material. The base 72 has a neck with an external screw thread which engages with an internal screw thread 74 on the inner case 54. The base 72 defines a discharge chamber 76 for holding a measured quantity of liquid (for example,

2ml) from the primary reservoir 60.

A flange 78 on the base 72 engages with a corresponding channel 80 on the inside of the outer case 52. The flange 78 and the channel 80 cooperate to provide a child safety lock, to prevent inadvertent removal of the cap 50 from the base 72. In one embodiment the child safety lock may require the user to push down and turn to remove the cap from the base. The child safety lock may be compliant, for example, with ISO 8317 or other appropriate regulatory standard.

In Figure 4 the dispensing cap 50 is shown in the closed or discharged state. In this state the liquid in the primary reservoir 60 is prevented from flowing into the discharge chamber 76 by virtue of the O-ring 64 and the closure wall 70. In order to release the cap from its initial, charged state, it is necessary to rotate the inner case 54 with respect to the outer case 52.

The cap 50 is held in the closed or discharged state by virtue of a locking mechanism similar to a child lock mechanism. This locking mechanism comprises a plurality of small protrusions on the inside of the outer case 52 which engage with corresponding protrusions on the outside of the inner case 54. Specifically designed weakened wall sections 82 are provided on the outer case 52. When pressure is applied to the weakened wall sections 82 by squeezing the cap, the outer case 52 deforms slightly and the locking mechanism is released. This allows the base 72 and inner case 54 to be rotated with respect to the outer case 52, about a central axis. Once the outer case has been twisted through a certain angle, for example 10° to the left, the unit 'pops' open assisted by the three spring system.

Figure 5 shows the dispensing cap 50 in the pre-charged or open state. The dispensing cap is released into the open state by pressing the side of the outer case 52 in the vicinity of the weakened wall extrusions 82, and twisting the outer case 52 with respect to the base 72. In the opened state the outer case 52 is extended, the base 72 is empty, and the closure wall 70 is fully closed, isolating the primary reservoir 60 from the base 72. The closure wall 70 also closes the end of the internal passage through the plunger 58.

Figure 6 shows the dispensing cap 50 in the half-open, charging state. This state is achieved by the user pressing down on the outer case 52 relative to the base 72 while the unit is in the open state. In the charging state the bottom of the plunger 58 is forced through the closure wall 70.

The plunger 58 includes a plurality of channels 84 on its outside surface, in the vicinity of the bottom end. The channels 84 extend part way along the plunger in an axial direction. The channels 84 are located such that they align with the closure wall 70 when the cap is in the half-open state, but not when the cap is in the open or closed state. The channels 84 allow liquid from the primary reservoir 60 to flow through the gap assisted by gravity when the cap is in the half-open state. The liquid fills the discharge chamber 76 to a predetermined amount, for example 2ml, as determined by the capacity of the discharge chamber.

As the downward pressure forces the outer case 52 down, a ratchet system stops full depression of the outer case. This prevents the inadvertent evacuation of the liquid in the discharge chamber 76. At this point the unit is charged, with a predetermined dose of liquid contained in the discharge chamber 76. The bottom O-ring 64 and the closure wall 70 seal the upper and lower sections from each other, so that no further liquid enters the base 72. The unit is then ready to be inverted in order to discharge the liquid contained in the discharge chamber 76.

On or prior to inversion the user rotates the upper casing 10° to the right to allow the further depression of the plunger 58 into the base 72. This action causes the discharge of the measured dose of liquid from the discharge chamber 76 through the nozzle 56. On full depression of the unit the locking mechanism re-engages making the unit safe again. This returns the unit to the state shown in Figure 4.

If further liquid remains in the primary reservoir 60, then the process may be repeated to allow another dose of liquid to be discharged.

Figure 7 is a cross section through the plunger 58 in in the vicinity of the bottom end where the channels are located. Referring to Figure 7, a plurality of channels are spaced around the plunger. Each of the channels runs in an axial direction along part of the plunger. The channels 84 ensure a free path of liquid flow through the closure wall 70 when the cap is in the half-open state. The larger span of the channels helps drive through the closure wall and leaves wide enough spaces for the liquid to flow.

Figure 8 is an external view of the dispensing cap 50 packaged for supply to the user. Referring to Figure 8, the dispensing cap is sheathed in an outer plastic casing 86. The casing 86 acts as a protective cover and intrusion detection device. A rip-strip 88 with a rip tab 90 is provided at the bottom of the casing 86. The rip-strip 88 is attached to the casing 86 with a series of small plastic bridges which break when the rip tab is pulled. The casing 86 allows the dispensing cap to be protected until the rip-strip 88 is pulled away from the bottom of the casing. Once the rip-strip is removed the outer protective plastic casing 86 can be slipped off the dispensing cap 50 to allow the cap to be used.

Figures 9 and 10 illustrate an alternative use of the dispensing cap 50. In this alternative use, the base 72 is removed, and the dispensing cap is connected to a bottle.

Figure 9 shows the dispensing cap 50 with the base 72 unscrewed. With the base removed, the internal thread 74 on the inside of the inner case 54 is exposed. The internal thread 74 can then be screwed onto the thread on the neck of a third party bottle. There is a collar around the inner case 54 that prevents overextension of the inner case with the base 72 removed.

Figure 10 shows the cap with the base removed by the user and how it would articulate with a bottle 92 having a neck 94 with a screw thread 96. The bottle may be a third party supplied bottle, such as a standard 30ml bottle. Preferably the bottle is provided with a child lock flange similar to that provided on the base 72.

The arrangement of Figures 9 and 10 can allow a predetermined dose of liquid to be dispensed from the dispensing cap 50 into the bottle 92. For example, the bottle may contain a base such as propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine, and the cap may be arranged to dispense a predetermined dose of active ingredients such as nicotine and/or flavourings into the bottle to be mixed with the base.

When the cap 50 is first screwed onto the bottle 92, it is in the closed or discharged state as shown in Figures 4 and 9. The bottle is released from this state by pressing the side of the outer case 52 in the vicinity of the weakened wall extrusions 82, and twisting the outer case 52 with respect to the base 72. Once the outer case has been twisted through a certain angle, for example 10° to the left, the unit 'pops' open assisted by the three spring system. This takes the cap to the pre-charged or open state as shown in Figure 5.

In order to release liquid from the reservoir 60 into the bottle, the user presses down on the outer case 52 relative to the base 72 while the unit is in the open state. As the cap 50 is pushed onto the bottle 92, the cap enters into the halfopen charging state shown in Figure 6. In this state liquid from the reservoir 60 flows through the channels 84 in the nozzle and into the bottle. A measured dose of liquid is dispensed into the bottle 92, and mixes with any liquid contained in the bottle. For example, 4.8ml of e-liquid may be dispensed in one shot into a 30ml bottle containing 25.2ml of a base substance such as propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine (0% nicotine e-liquid), although of course other quantities may be used as appropriate.

Prior to dispensing the mixed e-liquid, the user rotates the outer case 10° to the right to allow the further depression of the outer case. On full depression of the outer case the locking mechanism engages. This returns the unit to the state shown in Figure 4. The mixed e-liquid may then be dispensed from the bottle 92 through the nozzle 56.

In the arrangement described above, in both the fully closed and opened position the reservoir 60 is isolated. It is only in the mid-movement state that the reservoir 60 is accessed and liquid flows through the channels in the plunger 58. The locking mechanism is articulated around the extension/retraction of the cap and is integral to the unit. The mechanism may lock in both the fully open and fully closed states. In each case, applying pressure to the weakened wall structure by squeezing the cap releases the locking mechanism and allows the inner case 54 to be twisted with respect to the outer case 52. Thus the transition between states is protected by a squeeze and twist locking mechanism.

When the cap is attached to a bottle, the cap has (in effect) two locking mechanisms. The first is the up/down activation (squeeze and twist), while the second is a standard screw mechanism in which the cap has to be pushed against the mechanism to engage. This second mechanism is widely available in child-resistant caps such as those used for medicine bottles and household chemicals. When the cap is screwed to the bottle the primary safety mechanism is the push and twist extender (spring assisted). Removal of the cap would require activation of the second mechanism by pushing down, clicking on the first mechanism and continuing downward pressure with an untwisting (anti-clockwise movement) to unscrew the cap from the bottle. The first locking mechanism is in the direction of the tightening of the screw thread (clockwise) so is always against pressure when activated.

The embodiments described above can allow the active ingredients of an e-liquid to be stored securely until such time as they are released for mixing with a base. Furthermore, by providing the appropriate locking mechanisms, it can be ensured that the cap is always compliant with the appropriate regulations. The cap may be made from an opaque or semi-transparent material, which can reduce the risk of UV contamination or deterioration of the nicotine in the liquid. A CLP triangle can be applied to the cap during manufacture.

In one specific embodiment of the invention a maximum of 10ml of an e-liquid (with nicotine) is stored within the cap reservoir. Delivery is via unicorn dropper with three variants (a) unicorn dropper static (as in the accompanying drawings), (b) unicorn dropper extends and retracts into the body of the unit and (c) unicorn dropper 'flips out' from the side of the unit. All variations have child safety mechanisms meeting ISO8317. The unicorn nozzle is no less than 9mm in length with a bore sufficient to restrict atmospheric drop rate of the e-liquid to within TPD limits. The e-liquid only discharges with positive pressure to the mechanism. The e-liquid capsule contained in the unit retards the breakdown of the nicotine from UV rays. One-piece unit prevents the loss of bottle caps in 10ml PET alternative. 10ml PET bottle without a cap becomes non-compliant in relation to ISO8317. This unit stays compliant ISO8317 at all times. Positive unit pressure is required to prevent drop rate to minimum (zero drop rate aspiration) without user input. The system is filled with nicotine e-liquid with unicorn extending for the nozzle. Dimensions are approximately 3½ cm tall with 1½ cm diameter. Counter rotating top to bottom to facilitate extension of unicorn for the nozzle with internal valve system to release and contain the e-liquid. Capsule with e-liquid containing nicotine is tested to ensure nonporous and non-reactive with the contents.

In another specific embodiment of the invention, a dispensing unit is provided with one primary chamber for storing and releasing one or more ingredients into a secondary delivery reservoir for dispensing via a unicorn nozzle. The dispensing unit includes a unicorn nozzle, which may be fixed, extendible or flip-up. The unit body includes an e-liquid storage chamber of no greater than 10ml having a plastic upper body connected to the unicorn nozzle and extension. The bottom plastic housing extends by manual intervention (user pulls the bottom) or via a spring loaded system. In the extended state the upper 10ml reservoir charges the bottom dispensing reservoir with 2ml of fluid. On returning the bottle to its normal static state the 2ml of liquid is discharged via the unicorn nozzle. On return to static state the ISO 8317 mechanism re-engages automatically. The dispensing bottle body also includes a thread or other means of attaching that can be placed in, over, on top or around a container opening or attached to a bottle neck or any other primary container. A secondary twist ISO 8317 child lock mechanism remains compliant. A scalable dust cover is attachable to the bottle body top for preventing inadvertent activation to the activating member when in storage or before use. The dust cover can be removed manually. The unicorn nozzle is depressed for dispensing; the dispensing bottle body provides an activating member and unicorn nozzle and a manual valve that is spill proof and operates by push-pull as part of the activating member to be able to have a flow through the unicorn nozzle after the ingredients are charged into the 2ml dispensing reservoir.

The push-pull dispensing activator remains functioning when the unit acts as a cap with the unicorn nozzle in the on/off position when extended/depressed.

Although embodiments of the invention have been described in the context of an e-liquid delivery system, the present invention is also applicable to other areas. For example, many e-liquids, beverages, cleaning products, pharmaceuticals, and other chemicals and substances, do not retain their stability, strength, and effectiveness, for long after the ingredients have been exposed to light (UV) or mixed with active ingredients. Many liquids, gels, or acquiesce type solutions are formulated for shelf life rather than for quality, effectiveness, and potency of a product. In many cases, ingredients such as UV inhibitors, stabilizers, fillers, preservatives, binders, and other types of chemicals and substances are added that now can be reduced or eliminated by the embodiments described herein. This reduced shelf life after UV exposure and/or mixing mandates that the product be utilized relatively soon after UV exposure and/or mixing to obtain full strength and effectiveness, to prevent loss of effective strength, deterioration, discoloration, interactions between ingredients and reduced effectiveness.

In addition, it is estimated that 60 billion empty bottles go into landfills in the United States every year and every day over 80 million food and drinks cans end up in UK landfill. It is anticipated that a ‘sale and return’ can be used whereby a bottle/cap can be recharged and reused reducing the problem of empty bottles in landfills. Where possible the bottle will use recycled materials. When the unit is used as a dispensing cap it can be used for any primary container to store different ingredients to be mixed in the primary container. The dispensing cap includes its own ingredient storage and release chamber. Any ingredients that are stored in the dispensing cap can be dispensed into any container (whether threaded, snapped or adhered to any type of primary container) for mixing with the container contents manually by an individual when ready for use. The shelf life of the combined ingredients in this invention can be extended indefinitely.

The dispensing cap can be used as a storage chamber of one or more storage tanks in a dosing cap to release a combination of liquids and or powders for any ingredients that can be admixed with any other contents that are stored in a primary container.

Claims

1. A cap for a container, the cap comprising means for connecting the cap to the container, a reservoir for storing a liquid, and means for releasing at least part of the liquid from the reservoir into the container.

2. A cap according to claim 1, wherein the cap is arranged to release a measured dose of the liquid from the reservoir into the bottle.

3. A cap according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a dispensing element for dispensing liquid from the container.

4. A cap according to claim 3, wherein the dispensing element is a pipette or a nozzle.

5. A cap according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cap comprises an inner case and an outer case.

6. A cap according to claim 5, wherein the reservoir is at least partially defined by part of the inner case.

7. A cap according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the inner case is movable within the outer case.

8. A cap according to any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the cap has a central axis, and the inner case is arranged to slide axially within the outer case.

9. A cap according to any of claims 5 to 8, the cap comprising a sliding mechanism which guides movement of the inner case within the outer case.

10. A cap according to any of claims 5 to 9, wherein the volume of the reservoir is variable in dependence on the relative position of the inner case within the outer case.

11. A cap according to any of claims 5 to 10 wherein the inner case is movable between an open position, in which the inner case is extended with respect to the outer case, and a closed position in which the inner case is retracted within the outer case.

12. A cap according to claim 11, wherein the volume of the reservoir is larger in the open position than in the closed position.

13. A cap according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the reservoir is sealed from the container when the inner case is in the open position and/or when the inner case is in the closed position.

14. A cap according to any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the reservoir is in fluid communication with the container when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position.

15. A cap according to any of claims 11 to 14, further comprising a locking mechanism arranged to lock the inner case in at least one of the open position and the closed position.

16. A cap according to claim 15, wherein the locking mechanism is unlocked when the inner case is rotated with respect to the outer case.

17. A cap according to claim 16, wherein the locking mechanism requires pressure to be applied to the outer case in order to rotate the inner case with respect to the outer case.

18. A cap according to any of claims 5 to 17, wherein the inner case is arranged to connect to the container.

19. A cap according to any of claims 5 to 18, wherein the inner case comprises an internal thread which is arranged for threaded connection with a neck of the container.

20. A cap according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cap further comprises a tubular member which passes through the inside of the cap.

21. A cap according to claim 20, wherein the tubular member comprises an internal passage.

22. A cap according to claim 21, wherein the tubular member allows fluid from the container to be dispensed through the internal passage.

23. A cap according to any of claims 20 to 22, wherein an outside surface of the tubular member partially defines the reservoir.

24. A cap according to claim 23 when dependent on claim 5, further comprising a seal between the tubular member and the inner case.

25. A cap according to claim 24 when dependent on claim 11, wherein the tubular member comprises at least one channel on its outside surface, and the channel allows fluid to flow from the reservoir to the container when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position.

26. A cap according to claim 25, wherein the channel is located such that it aligns with the seal when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position.

27. A cap according to claim 26, wherein the channel does not align with the seal when the inner case is in the open position or the closed position.

28. A cap according to any of claims 20 to 27, wherein the tubular member is in the form of a pipette.

29. A cap according to claim 28, further comprising a bulb connected to one end of the pipette.

30. A cap according to any of claims 20 to 27, wherein the tubular member is in the form of a plunger.

31. A cap according to claim 30, when dependent claim 11, further comprising a closure wall which is arranged to isolate the reservoir from the container when the inner case is in the open position.

32. A cap according to claim 31, wherein the plunger is arranged to push through the closure wall when the inner case is moved between the open position and the closed position.

33. A cap according to any of claims 30 to 32, wherein the plunger is connected to a dispensing nozzle.

34. A cap according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container is a bottle with a threaded neck.

35. A cap according to any of claims 1 to 33, wherein the container is a base unit which is connected to the cap.

36. A dispensing unit comprising a cap according to any of the preceding claims, and a base unit connected to the cap.

37. A dispensing unit according to claim 33, wherein the base unit comprises a discharge chamber for receiving a predetermined quantity of fluid from the reservoir.

38. A dispensing unit according to claim 37, wherein the predetermined quantity is determined by the volume of the discharge chamber.

39. A dispensing unit according to claim 38 when dependent on claim 11, wherein the cap is arranged such that the plunger moves into the discharge chamber when the inner housing is moved into the closed position.

40. A dispensing unit according to claim 39, wherein movement of the inner housing into the closed position reduces the volume of the discharge chamber, causing liquid contained in the discharge chamber to be dispensed.

41. A dispensing unit according to any of claims 37 to 40, wherein the volume of the discharge chamber is less than that of the reservoir.

42. A dispensing unit according to any of claims 36 to 41, wherein the base unit is removable from the cap.

43. A dispensing unit according to claim 42, wherein the cap with the base unit removed is connectable to another container.

44. A dispensing unit according to claim 43 when dependent on claim 11, wherein, when the cap is connected to another container, the contents of the reservoir are released into the container when the inner case is in an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position.

45. A cap or dispensing unit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cap or dispensing unit is arranged for dispensing e-liquids.

46. A cap or dispensing unit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir contains an active ingredient of an e-liquid for mixing with a base.

47. A cap or dispensing unit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cap is made from an opaque or semi-transparent material.

48. A method of dispensing a liquid, the method comprising storing the liquid in a reservoir in a cap, connecting the cap to a container, and releasing at least part of the liquid from the reservoir into the container.

49. A method according to claim 48, wherein the cap comprises an inner case and an outer case which are movable with respect to each other, and the method comprises moving the inner case with respect to the outer case in order to release liquid from the reservoir into the container.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB 1701175.0 Examiner: Mr Aidan Black