MXPA99003923A - Simplified unidirectional twist-up dispensing device with incremental dosing - Google Patents

Abstract

An unidirectional twist-up dispensing device (10) with incremental dosing for dispensing a product is provided. This twist-up dispensing device includes a hollow housing (20) defining a chamber (21) having an open dispensing end (24) and an open actuating end (26) having an interior surface. A piston (40) located within the chamber being limited to translational movement within the chamber. The piston having a top side (42) facing the dispensing end (24) of the housing forming a variable volume portion of the chamber for storing the product. The piston also having a threaded rod (46) extending therefrom opposite the top side. An actuator (50) having a threaded aperture therethrough that engages the interior surface of the actuating end of the housing is also provided. The threaded aperture is concentric in the actuator and the actuator is adapted to rotate with respect to the housing in only one direction. The threaded rod engages the threaded aperture such that advancement of the piston toward the dispensing end occurs when the actuator is rotated, thereby causing the product to be dispensed. An applicator (80) can be attached to the dispensing end of the housing in fluid communication with the variable volume portion (22) of the chamber wherein the product is dispensed through the applicator. The applicator comprises a ferrule (82) and an application portion (84). The ferrule is attached to the dispensing end of the housing and the application portion has at least one orifice located therein. Several versions of the applicator are illustrated, including a fiber brush and a flocked application surface.

Description

UNIDIRECTIONAL TORQUE SUPPLY DEVICE SIMPLIFIED WITH INCREMENTING DOSAGE FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to torsion-type supply devices; and more particularly to unidirectional torque supply devices with increasing dosing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Numerous arrangements and configurations of twist supply packages are known in the art to supply a quantity of fluid from an internal storage tank. Varying types of torsional delivery devices are available to supply spreadable or flowable products, which then apply these products on a surface. Said dispensers have been used to supply various types of fluids and various other products such as creams, semisolids, gels, liquids, pastes and the like. The term "twist", as used herein, refers to a helical-type or thyme-advance advancing mechanism. Typically, in this type of dispenser, the product is placed inside a hollow container body having openings at one supply end and the other end being closed. The product is advanced towards the end of supply by the manual rotation of a rotary actuator, which drives a feed screw and, in turn, an elevator. The action of moving the elevator inside the product applies pressure to it, causing the product to be expelled or pushed from the storage tank through the openings at the supply end and onto an application surface. In typical torsional delivery devices, as long as the rotary actuator is rotated, the product will be dispensed from the dispenser at a uniform speed and in a generally continuous manner. A desirable effect of this type of dispenser is that the user may not be able to visually judge the adequate amount of product that must be supplied. Applying too much product results in waste and dirt. Many employed torsional dispatchers known to date and commercially implemented have attempted to solve this problem by employing unidirectional / incremental dosing dispensers using relatively complex mechanisms.

One approach uses a rack and ratchet mechanism to supply measured quantities of semi-solid products. For example, in the US patent. No. 4,595,124 issued to Duval et al. On June 17, 1986, a cylindrical container having a rounded closed applicator uses a disc and screw drive rack means together with a base and wrench means which restricts the rotation of a drive screw while allowing it to move axially to cause the piston to eject the semi-solid contents in measured increments. A disadvantage of this approach is that it creates a torsion mechanism that has numerous separate structural elements and complexes. Attempts have also been made to use unidirectional torque supply devices to supply liquid products. For example, British Patent 2198037, issued May 9, 1990, discloses a liquid applicator having a rotary control sleeve that rotates in only one direction and uses a rigid cam projection that acts as a detent with respect to a cylindrical cam follower that is driven back under the influence of an elastic force generated by a coil spring. A disadvantage with this approach is that the addition of an independent spring element to drive the ratchet mechanism increases the complexity and cost of the delivery device making it a less than desirable alternative. Although it is important to minimize manufacturing costs and simplify the production process, it is also important that such a delivery device be convenient and easy to use by the consumer. One approach to supplying creams uses an elastic ratchet with an axial zipper mechanism. For example, in the patent of E.U. No. 4,139,127 issued to Gentile on February 13, 1979, the user is only able to rotate a rotating applicator in one direction, which moves a thrust device, which has a threaded passage, towards the rotating apiicator, thereby providing material through openings in the rotating applicator. An inherent problem with this approach is that the user must grasp and rotate the rotating applicator through which the material is stocked. In this way, the user's hands can enter contact with the material, getting dirty and causing an unhygienic assortment operation. This condition is exacerbated when an excessive amount of material is unintentionally stocked. Dispatcher configurations of the types mentioned are commonly complex and expensive to manufacture, and are also difficult or inconvenient for the user to operate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION One of the objects of this invention is to provide a unidirectional torsional delivery device having a simple design and which minimizes the number of separate components. Another object of this invention is to provide a unidirectional torsional delivery device that includes an increasing dosing characteristic. Most delivery devices of this type are, unfortunately, made in such a way that only one type of applicator is designed to be used with the dispenser. Therefore, yet another object of this invention is to provide a delivery device that is versatile enough so that several types of applicators can be initially installed during assembly with a common base portion. Supply devices that enclose the aforementioned objects can greatly reduce production costs, reduce the total number of components and reduce the complexity of such supply devices.

The present invention provides a twist delivery device for dispensing a product. This torsional delivery device includes a hollow housing defining a chamber having an open supply end, and a driving end preferably having an inner surface. Preferably, the inner surface is cylindrical. A piston is located inside the chamber and the piston is limited to translational movement within the chamber. The piston has a supepor side facing towards the supply end of the housing. A variable volume portion of the chamber is formed between the chamber and the supepor side of the piston. The variable volume portion is for storing the product. AND! The piston also has a threaded rod extending therefrom in a direction opposite to the supepor side. An actuator is also provided, which has a threaded opening therethrough, and the actuator engages the inner surface at the drive end of the housing. The threaded opening is concentric within the actuator and the actuator is adapted to rotate with respect to the housing only in one direction. Preferably, a hand wheel is provided that includes the actuator that is connected to a grip portion extending from the drive end of the housing and, most preferably, the hand wheel is a single piece, unitarily formed of a plastic material. The inner surface includes an edge and at least one retainer. The actuator includes a groove coupled with the edge such that the actuator is rotatable but can not move axially relative to the substrate surface. The actuator also has an elastic end that extends outwards and coupling the retainer so that the actuator is rotatable in a forward direction but not in an opposite direction. Preferably, the elastic end is radially inclined to the inner surface and, most preferably, the actuator has at least two elastic ends. The threaded rod engages the threaded opening so that the advance of the piston toward the supply end occurs when the actuator is rotated, thereby causing the product to be stocked. The torsional delivery device may further comprise an applicator attached to the supply end of the housing in fluid communication with the variable volume portion of the chamber, wherein the product is dispensed through the applicator. The applicator comprises a ferrul and an application portion. The ferrule is fixed to the supply end of the housing and the application portion has at least one hole located therein. A lid that is removable is also provided. The lid encloses the hole and applicator portion of the applicator in a sealable manner. In another aspect of the present invention, the torsional delivery device includes an annular platform fixed to fiber bristles, an inner shoulder within the plunger, and a transition piece positioned within the supply end of the housing. The transition piece extends through the ferrul into the application portion of the puncher. The annular platform is captured between the transition piece and the inner shoulder of the applicator, placing the fiber bristles so that they extend through the hole in the application portion. The transition piece has a passage through the same that places opficio and fiber bristles in fluid communication with the vapable volume portion of the chamber. Preferably, the piston seals the inner surface in a sealable manner. The supply end of the hollow housing includes an outer surface having a channel, and the ferrul of the applicator includes an internal surface having a bubble. Preferably, the outer surface and the inner surface are cylindrical. The bubble engages the channel by forming a snap coupling between the ferrul and the supply end, thereby securing the applicator to the housing. In this most preferred embodiment, the product may comprise a fluid and still more preferably, the fluid comprises a cosmetic. In an alternative embodiment, the application portion further comprises a fiber brush. In another alternative embodiment, the application portion may comprise an application surface with a velvety coating.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Although the description concludes with claims that particularly define and distinctly claim the present invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numbers identify identical elements, and where: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the delivery device of the present invention; Figure 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the delivery device seen in Figure 1 without the lid; Figure 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the delivery device observed in Figure 1 with the cover cap installed, and with an alternative embodiment of the product lift; Figure 4 is a complete cross section of the delivery device, taken along line 4-4 of Figure 2; Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a first alternative embodiment of a plunger in accordance with the present invention; Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a second alternative embodiment of an apllor according to the present invention; Figure 7 is a vertical, partial transverse view of the delivery device, showing the second alternative embodiment of Figure 6; Figure 8 is a vertical, partial transverse view showing a third alternative embodiment of an applicator in accordance with the present invention; Figure 9 is a vertical, partial transverse view showing a fourth alternative embodiment of an applicator in accordance with the present invention; Y Figure 10 is a vertical, partial transverse view showing a fifth alternative embodiment of an applicator in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In a particularly preferred embodiment observed in Figure 1, the present invention provides a twist delivery device, generally indicated with 10, for dispensing a product, such as a fluid, cream, semi-solid, gel, paste, liquid or the like. The delivery device 10 comprises, in part, a rotating hand wheel, generally indicated as 51, rotatably connected to a housing 20 that is attached to an applicator, generally indicated 80. A cover 14 having an end is also provided. closed 17 and an open end 18. The lid is removably connected to the dispensing device 10 by frictional collection with the applicator 80. Referring now to Figure 2, in which a transverse vertical view of the delivery device 10 is observed. , the housing 20 is hollow and elongated, and has an axis extending longitudinally therethrough. The housing 20 has a chamber 21 therein and includes an open supply end 24 located opposite an operating end 26 having an interior surface 28. Preferably, the interior surface 28 is cylindrical. The term "cylindrical", as used herein, refers to a form three-dimensional that is elongated but also has a generally circular cross section Preferably, the inner surface 28 extends from the drive end 26 to the supply end 24 of the housing 20 The transverse fopna of the chamber 21 may alternatively have various shapes, such as as oval, rectangular, oblong, irregular or similar At the driving end 26, the inner surface 28 includes an edge 30 and at least one retainer 32 The retainer 32 comprises a substantially localized ipdentation, recessed or protruding area on the inner surface 28 The inner surface 28 may include a plurality of detents 32, and preferably these detents 32 are radially spaced along the inner surface 28 Preferably, the flange 30 is positioned adjacent the radially spaced retainers 32 The supply end 24 may include a first reducer 23 that acts to reduce or decrease the section t ransversal through which the product passes when it is assortment Preferably, the first reducer 23 has a frusto-ogous shape In addition, the supply end 24 of the housing 20 preferably has an outer surface 34 that includes a channel 36. The outer surface 34 is preferably the housing 20 is preferably comprised of a material such as nylon, acplonitplo-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), styrene-acrylonite (SAN), or most preferably a material such as terephthalate of polybutylene (PBT) with ABS, or more preferably, a rubber modified aclonite copolymer which is commercially available as BAREX ™ 210 from BP Chemicals may be used.

A piston 40 is located within the chamber 21 of the housing 20. This piston 40 is preferably limited to axial or translational movement within the chamber 21 and preferably does not rotate in relation to the interior surface 28. The piston 40 has an upper side 42 which faces toward the supply end 24 of the housing 20, and a lower side 44 opposite the upper side 42. As the piston 40 moves axially within the chamber 21, the upper side 42 of the piston 40 forms a portion of variable volume 22 within of the chamber 21. This variable volume portion 22 is used to store the product that will be stocked from the torsional delivery device 10. In a preferred embodiment, the upper side 42 of the piston 40 is provided with a sealing rib. upper seal 43 which sealably couples the inner surface 28. The lower side 44 of the piston 40 can also be provided with a lower sealing rib 45 The inner surface 28 is sealably engaged. Extending radially outwardly from the upper side 42 and bottom side 44 of the piston 40 are a supepor sealing rib 43 and a lower sealing rib 45, respectively. Preferably, the upper sealing rib 43 and the lower sealing rib 45 prevent the product stored in the variable volume portion 22 from spilling beyond the piston 40 towards the drive end 26 of the housing 20 or any other part of the chamber 21. The sealable engagement and frictional forces between the upper sealing rib 43 and the lower sealing rib 45 with the inner surface 28 inhibit the rotation of the piston 40. In this way, the piston 40 is generally limited to translational movement .

These frictional forces can be increased or decreased by varying the amount of surface contact between the upper sealing rib 43 or the lower sealing rib 45 and the inner surface 28. The housing 20, as shown, is cylindrical in shape and has a cross section. generally circular transverse As an alternative, accommodation may have a generally oval cross section or even an irregular cross section When the chamber 21 within the housing 20 is not circular in cross section, the outline or transverse shape of the chamber 21 further prevents rotation of the piston 40, since the piston 40 preferably has the same outline as the chamber 21. Preferably, the piston 40 is constructed of a high density fluorinated polyethylene (HDPE), although many other polymers can also be used. The piston 40 also has a threaded bar 46 extending therefrom, opposite the supepor side 42. In this way, the threaded rod 46 extends from the lower side 44 of the piston 40 towards the drive end 26 of the housing 20 Preferably the threaded rod 46 is made of an acetal The upper end 47 of the scraped bar 46 is fixedly attached to the lower side 44 of the piston 40 In this way, both the threaded rod 46 and the piston 40 move at the same time and that movement is limited to axial translation The combination of the piston 40 being attached to the threaded rod 46 forms a product lifter 48 which functions to move the product by pushing it out of the variable volume portion 22 of the chamber 21 in the housing 20 As noted in figure 3, the product elevator 48 may be a single component that includes the threaded rod 46 being formed integrally with the piston 40. In the preferred embodiment observed in Figure 2, the piston 40 and the threaded rod 46 may be separate components. To limit the axial advance of the product lifter 48, a stop bar 49 may be provided on the threaded rod 46 at the opposite upper end 47 of the threaded rod 46. The advance amount of the product lifter 48 may also be limited by the product elevator 48 or piston 40 simply by abutting the variable volume portion 22 of the chamber 21. Alternative methods may be used to limit the axial advance, such as that the threaded rod 46 may be partially threaded, that the threaded rod or piston 40 may be made shorter or longer, piston 40 may be provided with a protrusion on upper side 42, or various other methods known in the art to limit the axial advance of similar components. As illustrated in Figure 2, an actuator 50 having a threaded opening 52 therethrough is provided on a manual wheel 51. Preferably, the threaded opening 52 is concentric within the actuator 50. The actuator 50 couples the surface inside 28 at the drive end 26 of the housing 20 and is adapted to rotate with respect to the housing 20 in only one direction, this being the forward direction. Since the threads on the threaded rod 46 engage the threaded opening 52, the threaded rod 46 engages with the threaded opening 52 so that the advancement of the piston 40 towards the supply end 24 of the housing 20 occurs when the the actuator 50 is rotated, thereby causing the product to be stocked from the delivery device 10. The manual wheel 51 is preferably a single integral component that includes both an actuator 50 and a grip portion 54. As such, the manual wheel 51 includes an actuator 50 having a threaded opening 52 therethrough, and has a grip portion 54 connected to the actuator 50. The grip portion 54 extends from the drive end 26 of the housing 20 and preferably has a grooved surface. or grooved so that the user easily grasps the hand wheel 51. Preferably, a cavity 59 extends axially through the gripping portion 54 of the hand wheel 51 to provide access to the threaded opening 52. Most preferably, the threaded opening 52 it is smaller than the rod detent 49, while the cavity 59 allows the rod retainer 49 to pass therethrough. The actuator 50 includes a slot 56 which engages or is entrapped by the edge 30 on the inner surface 28 at the drive end 26 the housing 20 so that the actuator 50 is rotatable but can not move axially relative to the inner surface 28. This arrangement allows the turning of the manual wheel 51, while prohibiting axial movement of the manual wheel 51. Preferably, the manual wheel 51 is unitarily formed using an injection molding process from a plastic material such as ABS, which is commercially available as MAGNUM ™ 9015 from DOW Chemicals, or a PP homopolymer or copolymer can also be used with a calcium carbonate filler that have a loading level of about 5% to about 40% by weight. The actuator 50 on the manual wheel 51 also includes at least one elastic end 58 which extends radially outwardly thereof and which can be inclined radially towards the inner surface 28. The term "elastic", as used herein, refers to to the nature of the elastic end 58, which causes it to return to its original position after having been displaced from its original position. The elastic ends 58 can be better observed with reference to Figure 4, where a complete cross-section of the delivery device 10 taken along line 4-4 of Figure 2 is observed. The elastic ends 58 couple localized detents 32. on the inner surface 28 so that the actuator 50 is rotatable one direction of advancement, but not in an opposite direction. Preferably, the actuator 50 has at least two resilient ends 58. Most preferably, the resilient ends 58 are oriented at an angle directed radially outwardly toward the interior surface 28 so that the elastic ends 58 engage the retainers 32 and are displaced inwardly by the detents 32 when the manual wheel 51 is rotated in a forward direction. When the manual wheel 51 is rotated in the forward direction, the engagement of the threaded rod 46 with the threaded opening 52 causes the piston 40 to move toward the supply end 24. Any attempt to rotate the manual wheel 51 in opposite direction is limited and causes the elastic ends 58 to connect the detents 32, which prevents the rotation of the manual wheel 51 in an opposite direction. Since the manual wheel 51 is limited to rotation only in the forward direction, the product elevator 48 is only allowed to move in one direction. In this way, the delivery device 10 is unidirectional in nature. The manual wheel 51 is rotated by the user to supply the product in a controlled manner from the delivery device 10. Preferably, the detents 32 are radially spaced on the inner surface 28, and the elastic ends 58 are coupled and uncoupled with the detents. 32 when the manual wheel 51 is rotated in the forward direction. Each coupling of the elastic ends 58 with the detents 32 provides some increased translational movement of the piston 40 and thus provides an increased movement of the product elevator 48. The radial separation between the detents 32 can be varied to provide more or less axial translation of the piston. piston 40 with each increment of the turn. For example, the detents 32 can be uniformly separated, irregularly spaced apart or even intermittently spaced at varying distances on the inner surface 28. The quantity of product dispensed from the variable volume portion 22 is controlled by the increasing movement of the piston 40 and a volume increasing product assortment, thereby achieving an increased dosage of the product. This increasing dosage helps the user to obtain a precise or regulated quantity of product, and helps to avoid a dirty assortment or waste.

An advantage of this configuration is that an audible sound is produced by rotating the manual wheel 51 in the forward direction. This clicking sound is created when the elastic end 58 snaps back against the detent 32 and makes contact with the surface 28 of the housing 20 during rotation of the actuator 50. In addition, a tactile signal is produced when the manual wheel 51 is rotated. in the forward direction. The sensation of intermittent resistance to rotation is generated when the tension is created by the elastic end 58 which is being displaced inwardly while being mounted on the inner surface 28 between each retainer 32. This tension is released when the elastic end 58 springs back. out in the direction towards, and in the retainer 32. For example, an increasing dose is achieved by turning the manual wheel 51 a certain number of clicks that can be specified to provide an accurate dosage of the product. An applicator 80 may be attached to the supply end 24 of the housing 20 in fluid communication with the variable volume portion 22 of the chamber 21 for the product to be dispensed through the plunger 80. The applicator 80 is hollow and includes a ferrul 82. and an application portion 84. Preferably, the applicator 80 is constructed of a plastic material such as PP, PE, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), nylon, or even a polyester such as those commercially available as HYTREL ™ 5526 by DuPont. The ferrul 82 is located opposite the application portion 84 and is attached to the supply end 24 of the housing 20. The ferrul 82 includes an internal surface 85 having a bubble 89. The bubble 89 engages with the channel 36 on the supply end 24 forming a snap coupling 79 between the ferrul 82 and the supply end 24 and thereby securing the plunger 80 to the housing 20. The application portion 84 of the applicator 80 has at least one opf-cio 86 in the same for supplying the product through the apiicator 80. Preferably, the orifice 86 can have a diameter between about 0.25 mm to about 5 mm. Referring again to Figure 2, a preferred embodiment is shown in which the application portion 84 has an orifice 86 with fiber bristles 72 extending therethrough. Fiber bristles 72 of this type can be tapered, and preferentially, the fiber bristles 72 have a thickness or diameter of about 0.1 mm to about 0.05 mm. These fiber bristles 72 can be made of several mats, but are preferably made of a plastic such as nylon, and most preferably are made of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). The distance at which the fibers 72 extend beyond the application portion 84 can be easily flushed by changing the length of the fiber bristles 72 or the thickness of the adjacent portions. In this preferred embodiment, seen in Fig. 2, an inner shoulder 88 and a platform latch 95 are formed within the applicator 80. Preferably, the platform latch 95 is axially spaced in the direction of the hole 86, while it is also radially inwardly of the inner shoulder 88 in a stepped manner. The platform 95 insurance has the shape of four rods projecting inwards that are equally separated. Alternatively, the platform latch 95 may be in the form of a radially inward protrusion. A transition piece 90 having an edge 96 extending radially therefrom is positioned within the supply end 24 of the housing 20 so that the edge 96 is captured between the inner shoulder 88 and the supply end 24 of the housing 20. Preferably, the edge 96 separates the transition piece 90 at an upper transition 97 and a lower transition 93. The transition piece 90 can be constructed of a fluorinated HDPE or other flexible polymer. The transition piece 90 has a passage 92 therethrough, which places the hole 86 and fiber bristles 72 in fluid communication with the variable volume portion 22 of the chamber 21. Within the passage 92 a second reducer can be located. 25, similar to the first reducer 23, which acts to reduce or decrease the cross section through which the product passes when it is stocked, and functions in this manner to reduce the flow area through the passage 92. Preferably , the transition piece 90 is positioned so as to extend through the ferrul 82 in the application portion 84 of the applicator 80. As an alternative, the transition piece 90 having the passage 92 therethrough can be extended through the applicator 80 and beyond the application portion 84. In this preferred embodiment, an annular platform 94 having a central opening therein is affixed to the fiber bristles 72 forming a cylindrical tip. 74. The upper transition 97 of the transition piece 90 extends through the central opening in the annular platform 94. The annular platform 94 is trapped between the edge 96 on the transition piece 90 and the platform 95 so that the annular platform 94 places the fiber bristles 72 of the brush tip 74 relative to the optic 86 in the application portion 84. FIG. 5 illustrates a first alternative embodiment including an apron 180 which is hollow, and which has a ferrul 182 and an application portion 184 Application portion 184 has an application surface 176 at the end thereof opposite ferrul 182 Application portion 184 is substantially bullet-shaped and the surface of application 176 may be generally oval flat elongated, elliptical concave hemispherical, hyperbolic, parabolic or rounded in shape and contour Application surface 176 has at least one orifice 186 therethrough Preferably, at least one orifice 186 is in the form of a chevron 187 Figure 6 illustrates a second alternative embodiment including an applicator 280 which is hollow, having a ferrul 282 and an application portion 284 The application portion 284 has an external shoulder 298 at the end thereof opposite the ferrul 282 The external shoulder 298 extends radially inward towards an axially exiting dispensing head 299 The dispensing head 299 has a cylindrical shape and has an application surface 276 on the end thereof The application surface 276 can be tilted from a position perpendicular to the axis of the picker 280 and preferably the angle of inclination is from about 100 ° to about 180 ° very preferred ible the angle of inclination is from about 110 ° to about 125 ° With reference now to the 7, the application surface 276 has an optic 286 therein The transition piece 290 has a radially extending edge 296 therefrom The edge 296 separates the transition piece 290 at a transition 297 and a lower transition 293 The transition piece 290 is positioned within the supply end 224 of the housing 220 so that the edge 296 is caught between the inner shoulder 288 of the plunger 280 and the supply end 224 of the housing 220. The transition piece 290 is positioned in such a manner which extends through the ferrul 282 in the applicator portion 284 of the plunger 280 and the upper transition 297 is sealed against, or sealably engaging the inner surface 285 of the plunger 280. The transition piece 290 has a passage 292 through the plunger 280. the same that places the orifice 286 in fluid communication with the variable volume portion 222 to allow the product to flow from the volume portion vapable 222 and outwardly through the plunger 280 Within the plunger 280 and adjacent the outer shoulder 298 is a second reducer 225 which acts to reduce or decrease the flow area through which the product passes when it is supplied. second alternative embodiments a velvety coating 275 can be applied to the dispensing head 299, as well as an application surface 276. The coating 275 is a mat of short, thin fibers substantially perpendicular to the applied surface. This achieves a velvety feel when the coating 275 is touched by a user. Preferably, the velvety coating 275 comprises nyion or polyester fibers. Each fiber of the velvety coating 275 preferably has a diameter of about 1 to about 5 denier and a length of about 0 25 mm to about 1 5 mm The transverse shape of each fiber of the velvety coating 275 may be circular, c-shaped, in the form of x, elliptical, irregular or similar Figure 8 illustrates a third alternative embodiment that includes a transition piece 390 that is made of two separate pieces In this third alternative embodiment, the upper transition 97 of Figure 2 is replaced by a tube 391 and the transition infepor 393 includes an open fitting 397 configured to receive the tube 391. The tube 391 is hollow and includes a passage 392 connecting the fiber bristles 372 and the orifice 386 to the variable volume portion 322 so that they remain in fluid communication with each other. others Alternatively, tube 391 or upper transition 97 may have a closed end with a plurality of holes spaced along the length or circumference, or the tube 391 may be a tube made of a porous plastic. Said arrangement can help uniformly disturb the product that is being dispensed from the variable volume portion 322. Figure 9 illustrates a fourth alternative embodiment including a picker 480, similar to that shown in Figure 7, having a ferrul 482 and a application portion 484 In this fourth alternative embodiment, the application portion 484 has an external shoulder 498 at the end thereof opposite the ferrul 482. The external shoulder 498 extends radially inward and defines the pepfepa of an opening extending through the external shoulder 498 of the application portion 484 The external shoulder 498, as shown, it is inclined from a perpendicular position to the axis of the applicator 480, and preferably the external shoulder 498 has an arcuate contour that is concave, convex or the like. The transition piece 490 has an edge 496 extending radially therefrom and separating the transition piece 490 at an upper transition 497 and a lower transition 493. The upper transition 497 includes a distribution head 499 integral therewith. The distribution head 499 can be substantially conical, cylindrical, frustoconical or similar in shape and contour. The dispensing head 499 includes an application surface 476 on the end thereof, and the application surface 476 has a hole 486 therein. The application surface 476 may be perpendicular to, or inclined from, a position perpendicular to the axis of the plunger 480. The velvety coating 475 may be applied to the dispensing head 499 or application surface 476. The transition piece 490 is positioned within the supply end 424 of housing 420 so that edge 496 is trapped between inner shoulder 495 of plunger 480 and supply end 424 of housing 420. Transition piece 490 is positioned such that it extends through ferrul 482 inside and through the application portion 484 and the distribution head 499 exit through the opening in the external shoulder 498 exposing the dispensing head 499 and the application surface 476. The ferrul 482 includes a bubble 489 on the inner surface 485, and the supply end 424 includes a corresponding channel 436. Bubble 489 engages channel 436 to join applicator 480 and transition piece 490 on housing 420.

When the picker 480 and the transition piece 490 are attached to the housing 420, the seyl surface 461 on the upper transition 497 sealingly seals the sealing edge 488 on the inner surface 485 of the applicator 480 and thus engages in shape the top transition 497 and the platen 480 are sealable. The transition piece 490 has a passage 492 therethrough which places the orifice 486 in fluid communication with the variable volume portion 422 to allow the product to flow from the volume portion vanable 422 and outside the dispenser 480 through the dispensing head 499. Figure 10 illustrates a fifth alternative embodiment including an applicator 580, similar to that shown in Figure 9, having a ferrul 582 and an application portion 584 with an outer shoulder 598 defining an opening therethrough. In this fifth alternative embodiment, the dispensing head 599 is a separate component of a transition piece 590 and in this way the dispensing head 599 can be made of a different matte than that of the transition piece 590. Preferably, the head of The distribution 599 is made of a softer or more elastic material than that of the transition piece 590. The transition piece 590 has a passage 592 therethrough and a sealing surface 583 that extends radially inward in the direction of a substantially cylindrical sleeve 591 at the end of the upper transition 597. The dispensing head 599 includes an application surface 576 having a hole 586 therethrough on one end thereof and a recess 593 on the other end of the latter. the same with a pepfepco flange 561 extending radially outwardly of the recess 593 The recess 593 is configured to be stably coupled with the sleeve 591 of the transition piece 590 and to align the passage 592 with the orifice 586 when the dispenser head 599 is installed on the transition piece 590 The transition piece 590 is positioned so as to extend through the ferrule 582 and into the application portion 584, allowing the dispensing head 599 to exit through the opening in the shoulder external 598 exposing both the dispensing head 599 and the application surface 576. The velvety coating 575 may be applied to the dispensing head 599 or to an application surface 576. A sealing edge 588 is provided on the inner side of the exterior shoulder 598 and the peripheral flange 561 is sealably trapped between the sealing surface 583 and the sealing edge 588 when the plunger 580 and the transition piece 590 with the dispensing head 599 are attached to the supply end 524 of the housing 520 other types and shapes of applicators 580 can also be attached to the supply head 524 of the housing 520 of this device. For example, a rolling ball can be used, a supepor part of meshes, a porous foam, a sponge, an elastomepca tip having a groove, a bullet-shaped tip, a burr-shaped tip, a porous dome, capillary fibers. or a similar applicator Referring back to Figure 3 the lid 14 is shown in the installed position on the plunger 80 of the delivery device 10 thereby closing in a sealable fopna to the port 86 and the application portion 84 of the In the preferred embodiment, the closed end 17 of the lid 14 is separated from and does not contact the plunger 80. The lid 14 is removable, as shown in Figure 1. A plunger rib 16 is provided on the plunger 80 and the lid locking rib 19 is provided on the inside of the lid 14 The lid locking rib 19 may have the shape of an intermittent or continuous protrusion When the lid 14 is installed on the plunger 80, the plunger rib 16 and the lid locking rib 19 cooperate to removably secure the lid 1 on the applicator 80 to fix the lid 14 in place on the applicator 80, the open end 18 (figure 1) engages the plunger 80 so that the plunger rib 16 engages the lid locking rib 19 Consequently, a user can simply press the lid onto the plunger 80 when the plunger device supply 10 is not in use, and can also easily remove lid 14 to access the plunger 80 In the embodiment shown in figure 3, lid locking rib 19 or plunger rib 16 moves slightly and then returns to its normal position to ensure that the lid 14 remains in place until the user removes the lid 14 to supply the product. The inside of the lid 14 is also provided with a selement bubble 15 which is positioned in such a way that it aligns with the sealing portion 81 on the plunger 80 The sealing bubble 15 on the lid 14 engages with the extension portion 81 of the pill 80 providing a sealable coupling of the seal. e lid 14 and the plunger 80 so that when the lid 14 is installed on the plunger 80 an air tight seal is created between the cap 14 and the plunger 80 In this manner the lid 14 sealingly engages the ferrul 82 on the plunger 80 prohibiting any product from escaping or drying the product contained within the variable volume potion 22 of the dispensing device 10 Preferably, a smooth or even contour is generated between the outside of the lid 14 and the applicator 80 and the housing 20 when the lid 14 is in the installed position The assembly of the delivery device 10 shown in figures 2 and 3 is easily achieved, and can be started by threadably connecting the product elevator 48 with the manual wheel 51 The threaded rod 46 is engaged with the threaded opening 52 in a manner that allows the lower side 44 of the piston 40 to be attached to the upper end 47 of the threaded rod 46 if needed. The product elevator 48 and the manual wheel 51 are then inserted into the the driving end 26 of the housing 20 so that the slot 56 and the edge 30 engage, thereby connecting in The hand wheel 51 is pivotable in place while the piston 40 is also placed within the chamber 21 and forming a variable volume portion 22. Care must be taken during assembly to orient the elastic ends 58 for proper engagement with the detents. 32 and to avoid loading or dragging the elastic limbs 58 The variable volume portion 22 can then be filled with product If needed the transition piece 90 can be placed on the supply end 24 of the housing 20 and, if needed the brush tip 74 can be installed on the transition piece 90 The picker 80 can be joined at the supply end 24 on the transition piece 90 and receiving brush tip 74, if installed. The lid 14 can also be removably attached on the applicator 80. Alternatively, the assembly can also be initiated by inverting the housing 20 so that the actuating end 26 faces upwards and then placing the piston 40 inside the chamber 21. of the housing 20 through the driving end 26 so that the lower side 44 faces upwards. The manual wheel 51 can then be inserted into the drive end 26 of the housing 20 and the upper end 47 of the threaded rod 46 can be attached to the lower side 44 of the piston 40 through the cavity 59 while engaging the threaded opening 52 of handwheel 51. Although various products such as fluids, flowable, semi-solid or liquid materials can be supplied using the delivery device 10 described herein, cosmetics are of particular interest. The cosmetics may be, for example, eye shadow, liquid foundation, lip color, lipstick, mask, nail color, powder, deodorant, antiperspirant or a variety of other cosmetics with color and the like. A thin and uniform film is achieved when a cosmetic composition is stocked and applied using this delivery device 10. Examples of cosmetic compositions capable of being used with the delivery device 10 include the following: EXAMPLE 1 Lip composition Ingredient (%) Weight Group A Silicone gum1 12 60 Isododecano2 12 60 Group B Isododecano2 43 38 Clay bentonite4 1 00 Propylene carbonate 0 32 Calcium red # 6 1 00 Barium red # 7 3 00 Titanium dioxide 1 50 Mica 220 Orgaposiloxane ream 22 40 1 Dimethicone gum 2,500,000 cSt, available as SE 63 of General Electric 2 Permethyl 99A available from Permetil Corp 3 Resin MQ (ratio MQ 0 7 1) available as 1170-002 from General Electric 4. Bentone 38 available from Rheox. Group A ingredients are combined in a flask and mixed with a propeller mixer until uniform. All the ingredients of Group B are combined except propylene carbonate and mixed manually to dry well powders. The complete formulation is homogenized using a Ross ME 100 LC homogenizer at approximately 7500 rpm until all pigments are completely dispersed. AfterWhile the homogenization process is continued, the propylene carbonate is added slowly until the mixture thickens. Mix the Group A mixture with the Group B mixture in a flask and mix with a propeller mixer until they are uniform. The resulting fluid is transferred to individual packages.

EXAMPLE 2 Liquid base Ingredient (%) that Group A: Organosiloxane resin1 4.48 Cyclomethicone2 11.11 Silicone-polyether emulsifier3 10.00 Group B- Titanium dioxide treated with silicone 6.50 Yellow iron oxide treated with silicop 0.28 Red iron oxide treated with silicon 0.15 Black iron oxide treated with siiicone 0.06 Group C Silicone rubber 2.5000,000 cSt4 2.52 Cyclomethicone2 4 90 Group D. Water 49.50 Glicepna 10.00 Methylparaben 0.20 2-Phenox? Ethanol 0.30 1. MQ resin available as 1170-002 from General Electric. 2. Clclomethicone available as fluid 245 from Dow Corning. 3. Silicone-poheter emulsifier available as DC3225C from Dow Corning. 4. Dimethicone rubber (2,500,000 cSt) available as SE63 from General Electric. The ingredients of Group A and Group B are combined and homogenized at 9500 rpm for 15 minutes. The ingredients of the Group C and homogenized at 2000 rpm for 2 minutes. Group D ingredients are combined in a separate vessel and mixed with a propeller mixer until a clear solution is formed. The Group D solution is added to the mixture of Group A, B and C ingredients very slowly while homogenizing at 2000 fm. When all the Group D solution has been incorporated, the complete mixture is homogenized at 2000 rpm for an additional 10 minutes. Finally, the complete mixture is homogenized at 5000 rpm for 5 minutes. The resulting fluid is transferred to individual packages.

EXAMPLE 3 Mask Ingredient (%) Weight Group A: Organosiloxane resin1 9.60 Cyclomethicone2 8.82 Silicone-polyether emulsifier3 10.00 Group B: Black iron oxide treated with silicone 5.00 Group C: Silicone rubber 2,500,000 cSt4 5.40 Cyclomethicone2 16.18 Group D: Water 43.50 Glicepna 1.00 Methylparaben 0.20 2-Phenox? Ethanol 0.30 1. MQ resin available as 1170-002 from General Electric. 2. Cyclomethicone available as fluid 244 from Dow Corning 3. Silicone-polyether emulsifier available as DC3225C from Dow Corning. 4. Dimethicone rubber (2,500,000 cSt) available as SE63 from General Electric. The ingredients of Group A and Group B are combined and homogenized at 9500 rpm for 15 minutes. Group C ingredients are added and homogenized at 2000 fm for 2 minutes. Group D ingredients are combined in a separate vessel and mixed with a propeller mixer until a clear solution is formed. The Group D solution is added to the mixture of ingredients of Groups A, B and C very slowly while homogenizing at 2000 rpm. When all the Group D solution has been incorporated, the complete mixture is homogenized at 2000 rpm for an additional 10 minutes. Finally, the complete mixture is homogenized at 5000 rpm for 5 minutes. The resulting fluid is transferred to individual packages.

EXAMPLE 4 Lip color composition Ingredients (%) Weight Group A: Silicone rubber1 11.88 Isododecano2 8.82 Group B: Organosiloxane3 resin 5.00 Red # 6 calcium 0.50 Red # 7 barium 0.50 Gemtone Sunstone5 0.50 Timlron MP-115 Pearl8 0.50 Benton gel4 10.89 1. Dimethicone rubber of 2,500,000 available as SE 63 from General Electpc. 2. Permethyl 99A available from Permethyl Corp. 3. MQ resin (M'Q ratio of 0.7.1) available as 1 70-002 from General Electric. 4. VS-5 PC available from Rheox. 5. Gemtone Sunstone available from Mearl Corporation. 6. Timitron MP-115 Pearl available from Mearl Corporation. Group A ingredients are combined in a flask and mixed with a propeller mixer until uniform. The ingredients of Group B are added to the mixture of Group A ingredients and mixed manually to thoroughly incorporate the dry powders. The entire formulation is homogenized until all the pigments are completely dispersed. The resulting fluid is transferred to individual packages.

EXAMPLE 5 Composition for liquid eyeliner Ingredient (%) Pesi Group A: Organosiloxane resin1 8.90 Isododecane2 14.90 Group B: Black iron oxide 20.00 Propylparaben 0.10 Group C: 100,000 cSt3 silicone fluid 11.10 Isododecano2 33.00 Group D: Isododecano2 10.00 Trihydroxystearin 2.00 1. Rema MQ (ratio M: Q of 0.7: 1) available as 1170-002 from General Electric. 2. Permethyl 99A available from Permethyl Corp. 3. Dimethicone fluid (100,000 cSt) available from General Electric. Group A ingredients are combined and mixed with a propeller mixer until uniform. Group B ingredients are added and homogenized until the pigments are completely dispersed. Group C ingredients are premixed in a separate container using a propeller mixer until uniform, then combined with the mixture of Group A and B ingredients. The Group D ingredients are premixed with heating at approximately 57-60 ° C. C for about 3 minutes. They are removed from the heat and homogenized for approximately 5 minutes or until a gel develops. Finally, add the mixture of Group D ingredients to the rest of the batch and heat the entire mixture to 57-60 ° C for about 7-10 minutes while mixing with a propeller mixer. The batch is removed from the heat and Allow to cool to room temperature while mixing with a propeller mixer. The resulting fluid is transferred to individual packages.

EXAMPLE 6 Eye shadow composition Ingredient (%) Weight Group A: Organosiloxane resin 1 22.14 Isododecano2 14.90 Group B: Flamenco Gold Peari 0.60 Flamenco Superpearl 0.84 Titanium dioxide 0.94 Gemtone Copper 0.41 Gemtone Sunstone 1.21 Propylparaben 0.10 Group C: Silicone fluid of 1, 000 cSt3 13.86 Isododecano2 33.00 Group D: Isododecano2 10.00 Trihydroxystearin 2.00 1. MQ resin (M: Q ratio of 0.7: 1) available as 1170-002 from General Electpc. 2. Permethyl 99A available from Permethyl Corp. 3. Dimethicone fluid (1, 000 cSt) available from General Electric. The ingredients of Group A are combined and mixed with a propeller mixer until they are uniform. The ingredients of the Group B and homogenize until the pigments are completely dispersed. Group C ingredients are premixed in a separate container using a propeller mixer until uniform, then combined with the mixture of Group A and B ingredients. The Group D ingredients are premixed with heating at approximately 57-60 ° C. C for about 3 minutes. They are removed from the heat and homogenized for approximately 5 minutes or until a gel develops.

Finally, add the mixture of Group D ingredients to the rest of the batch and heat the entire mixture to 57-60 ° C for about 7-10 minutes while mixing with a propeller mixer. The batch is removed from the heat and allowed to cool to room temperature while mixing with a propeller mixer. The resulting fluid is transferred to individual packages.

Although particular versions and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, modifications to this torsional delivery device 10 may be made without departing from the teachings of the present invention. For example, the different relationships between the components can be manufactured using methods other than those of assembling the components under pressure; including, threaded coupling, bonding with adhesive, welding and the like. The terms used to describe the invention are used in its descriptive sense and not as terms of limitation, it being intended that all equivalents thereof be included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (20)

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1. - A supply device by torsion to supply a product, said supply device comprises: a) a hollow housing defining a chamber having an open supply end and a driving end, said operating end has an inner surface; b) a piston located within said chamber, said piston being limited to translational movement within said chamber, said piston has an upper side facing said supply end of said housing and has a threaded rod extending therefrom in said chamber. opposition to said upper side, a portion of variable volume of said chamber formed between said chamber and said upper side of said piston, said portion of variable volume for storing said product; and c) an actuator having a threaded opening therethrough, said actuator engages said inner surface at said driving end of said housing and being adapted to rotate with respect to said housing only in one direction, said threaded rod engaging said threaded opening in such a way that the advance of said piston to said supply end occurs when said actuator is rotated, causing then said product to be stocked.

2. - The device for supply by twist to supply a product according to claim 1, further characterized in that said threaded opening is concentric in said actuator.

3. The torsional delivery device for dispensing a product according to claim 1, further comprising a manual wheel, said manual wheel being connected to said actuator and extending from said actuating end of said housing.

4. The twist supply device for dispensing a product according to claim 3, further characterized in that said manual wheel includes a gripping portion and said actuator, said manual wheel is a single piece, formed unitarily from a material plastic.

5. The supply device by torsion to supply a product according to claim 3, further characterized in that said inner surface is cylindrical and includes an edge and at least one retainer, and wherein said actuator includes a slot coupled with said edge for said actuator to be rotatable but not be able to move axially in relation to said inner surface, said actuator also has at least one elastic end which extends outwards and which engages said retainer for said actuator to be rotatable in a forward direction but not in an opposite direction.

6. - The supply device by twist to supply a product according to claim 5, further characterized in that said inner surface includes a plurality of detents.

7. The torsional supply device for dispensing a product according to claim 5, further characterized in that said elastic end is inclined radially towards said inner surface.

8. The torsion supply device for dispensing a product according to claim 5, further characterized in that said actuator has at least two elastic ends.

9. The twist delivery device for dispensing a product according to claim 5, further comprising an applicator attached to said supply end of said housing in fluid communication with said variable volume portion of said chamber, wherein said product is supplied through said applicator.

10. The torsion supply device for supplying a product according to claim 9, further characterized in that said applicator includes a ferrul and an application portion, said ferrul engages said supply end of said housing and said application portion has an orifice with fiber bristles extending through it.

11. The torsion supply device for dispensing a product according to claim 10, further comprising an annular platform fixed to said fiber bristles, an inner shoulder inside said applicator, and a transition piece placed within said end of supply of said housing, said transition piece extending through said ferrule within said application portion of said applicator, said annular platform being trapped between said transition piece, and said intepor shoulder placing said fiber bristles in relation to said hole in said application portion, said transition piece has a passage therethrough which places said hole and said fiber bristles in fluid communication with said variable volume portion of said chamber.

12. The twist delivery device for dispensing a product according to claim 9, further characterized in that said applicator comprises a ferrul and an application portion, said ferrul being attached to said supply end of said housing and said portion of application has at least one hole in it.

13. The twist delivery device for dispensing a product according to claim 12, further comprising a lid that is removable and sealingly encloses said orifice and said application portion of said plunger.

14. The torsional delivery device for dispensing a product according to claim 12, further characterized in that said supply end of said hollow housing includes a cylindrical outer surface having a channel, said ferrul includes an internal surface having a Bubble, said bubble engages with said channel forming a snap coupling between said ferrul and said supply end, thereby joining said applicator to said housing.

15. - The device for supply by twist to supply a product according to claim 12, further characterized in that said application portion further comprises a fiber brush.

16. The twist delivery device for dispensing a product according to claim 12, further characterized in that said application portion further comprises an application surface with a velvety coating.

17. The torsion supply device for dispensing a product according to claim 16, further characterized in that at least one hole is in the shape of a chevron.

18. A torsional delivery device for dispensing a product, said delivery device comprising: a) a hollow housing defining a chamber having an open supply end and a driving end, said operating end having an inner surface said inner surface is cylindrical and has an edge located therein, and said inner surface further has a radially spaced retainer along said inner surface; b) a product lifter including a piston and a threaded rod, said piston being located within said chamber and being limited to translational movement within said chamber, said piston has an upper side facing said supply end of said housing and has a lower side, said threaded rod has an upper end, said upper end of said threaded rod being fixedly attached to said lower side of said piston, a portion of variable volume of said chamber being formed between said chamber and said upper side of said piston, said portion of variable volume is for storing said product; and c) an applicator that is hollow and having a ferrul located opposite an application portion, said application portion having at least one hole therein and said ferrul being attached to said supply end of said housing so that said applicator is in fluid communication with said variable volume portion of said chamber; and d) a hand wheel having a gripping portion and a threaded opening therethrough, said threaded opening being concentric in said hand wheel, said hand wheel having a slot trapped within said rim allowing the rotation of said hand wheel and prohibiting at the same time the axial movement of said manual wheelsaid hand wheel also has an elastic end that extends radially outwardly, said resilient end engages said detent and being angled towards said inner surface so that said resilient end is moved inwardly by said detent when said hand wheel is rotated in a direction of advance and said elastic end splice said retainer preventing the rotation of said manual wheel when said manual wheel is rotated in an opposite direction, said threaded bar engaging said threaded opening so that the advance of said piston toward said supply end occurs when said wheel The manual is rotated in said forward direction, thus causing said product contained in said portion of vapable volume to be supplied through said applicator.

19. - The device for supply by twist to supply a product according to claim 18, further characterized in that said product comprises a fluid.

20. The device for supply by twist to supply a product according to claim 19, further characterized in that said fluid comprises a cosmetic. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A unidirectional torque supply device with increasing dosage is provided to supply a product; this torsional delivery device includes a hollow housing defining a chamber having an open supply end and an open operating end having an inner surface; a piston located inside the chamber is limited to translational movement within the chamber; the piston has an upper side facing the supply end of the housing forming a variable volume portion of the chamber for storing the product; the piston also has a threaded bar extending from the same opposite the upper side; an actuator having a threaded opening therethrough that engages the inner surface of the drive end of the housing is also provided; the threaded opening is concentric in the actuator and the actuator is adapted to rotate with respect to the housing only in one direction; the threaded bar engages the threaded opening so that the advance of the piston towards the supply end occurs when the actuator is rotated, thus causing the product to be stocked; an applicator may be attached to the supply end of the housing in fluid communication with the variable volume portion of the chamber, wherein the product is dispensed through the applicator; the applicator comprises a ferrul and an application portion; The ferrui is attached to the supply end of the housing and the application portion has at least one optic located therein; HE illustrate various versions of the applicator, including a fiber brush and a velvety coated application surface. JN / cgm * sll * P99-553F