RU2435511C1 - Disposable pump, dispensing system comprising pump and method for liquid dispensing - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: personal use articles.

SUBSTANCE: disposable pump for a system of liquids dispensing, in particular, for a dispensing system comprising a compressible reservoir comprises a body that forms a chamber and a hole for dispensing. In the chamber there is a controller fixed to control liquid flow between the reservoir and the chamber and between the chamber and the dispensing hole. The controller comprises an external valve for control of flow between the chamber and the dispensing hole. The external valve is installed with the possibility of displacement between the symmetrical position, which corresponds to the closed position of the pump, in which the external valve is in tight contact with the body, and the deviated position, which corresponds to the discharge position of the pump, in which the external valve is displaced from tight contact with the body depending on the chamber pressure. Displacement of the external valve from the symmetrical position into the deviated one requires external force applied to the pump and transferred to the controller no matter what the pressure changes in the chamber are. Also a system is provided for dispensing, as well as the method of liquid dispensing.

EFFECT: invention provides for convenience in use.

16 cl, 20 dwg

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The present invention relates to a disposable pump for a system for dispensing liquids, in particular for a system for dispensing, which contains a compressible container.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the technical field of disposable suction pumps for dispensing a liquid substance, for example soap or alcohol detergent, from a container, for example a bottle or the like. A huge number of different suction pumps have been proposed in the past. Typically, many suction pumps include a compression chamber from which a volume of liquid can be discharged. The liquid exiting the chamber creates a negative pressure in the fluid chamber, the negative pressure of which works to divert new liquid from the tank into the compression chamber, which is thus filled and ready to dispense a new volume of liquid.

In use, the container interacts with the pump and is inserted into the dispenser, which is usually stationary on the wall in the bathroom or the like. Certain dispensing devices include a reusable pump that is integrated with the dispensing device and to which disposable containers can be attached. The present invention, in contrast, relates to a disposable pump that can be attached to a disposable container for attachment to a stationary dispensing device (reusable).

One type of dispenser includes an actuator for actuating the pump and dispensing a volume of liquid. Another type of dispensing devices is designed so that part of the pump exits the dispensing device, exposing the actuating means, made in one piece with the pump. In general, there are two types of actuators - either built into the dispenser or into the pump.

One view is a longitudinal actuator. The expression “in the longitudinal direction” refers in this context to a direction parallel to the dispensing direction and the pump nozzle. Pumps for longitudinal actuation often contain a sliding piston that can be pushed / pulled in the longitudinal direction to reduce / increase the volume inside the compression chamber of the pump, whereby a pumping action is created. When the actuating means is integral with the pump, it may comprise an outlet for dispensing liquid.

Another type of actuating means is a transverse acting means. The expression "in the transverse direction" refers in this context to the direction transverse to the dispensing direction and the nozzle of the pump. Pumps for lateral actuation are usually to be installed in a stationary dispensing device that comprises transversely actuating means. The actuating means acting in the transverse direction can be a rod or the like which, when transversely moved, works to reduce the volume inside the pump compression chamber.

Like pumps, tanks are known in a wide variety of forms. One particular type of container is collapsible containers, which are designed to be gradually folded, reducing their internal volume when a fluid is dispensed from them. Folding containers are particularly preferred from the point of view of hygienic reasons, since the tightness of the container is maintained throughout the entire emptying process, which prevents the entry of contaminants into it and the impossibility of any manipulation of the contents of the container without visible damage to the container. The use of collapsible tanks includes specific pump requirements. In particular, the suction force generated by the pump must be sufficient not only to dispense the liquid, but also to compress the container. Moreover, negative pressure may be created in the container, which tends to expand the container to its original shape. Therefore, the pump must also be able to overcome negative pressure.

One type of collapsible container is a simple bag, generally made of some soft plastic material. The bags are generally relatively easy to fold and the walls of the bag will not tend to expand again after folding, therefore, the walls of the bag will not contribute to any negative pressure in the bag.

Another type of collapsible container is known, for example, from EP 0072783 A1 and DE 9012878 U1. This type of collapsible receptacle has at least one relatively rigid wall towards which the folding of other, less rigid receptacle walls will be directed. Therefore, hereinafter, this type of container is called a semi-rigid folding container. This type of collapsible container is preferred in that the information can be printed on a rigid wall, so that the information remains clearly visible and undistorted regardless of the degree of folding of the container. Moreover, for some contents, containers having at least one relatively rigid wall may be preferable to bags. However, collapsible containers having at least one relatively rigid wall may require a greater suction force exerted by the pump to overcome the negative pressure created in the vessel during emptying than the bags.

For disposable pumps, there is a general need for the pump to be relatively simple and economical to manufacture. Moreover, it is preferable if the pump includes materials that can be easily processed after disposal, and even more preferred if the pump can be processed as a single unit, without the need to separate its parts after disposal.

EP 1215167 describes a disposable pump containing four plastic parts - each performed by extrusion technology. The first part forms a connecting part provided by threads for screwing onto the bottle. A spout extends from the connecting portion, wherein said spout terminates in a perforated plate through which the contents of the bottle can pass. The first part also forms a rod extending from the perforated plate. The second part is screwed onto the rod and forms two membranes, one after the other, to form the pump valves. The third extruded part forms a compression chamber, which is connected to the first part so that the rod is inserted into the chamber and the membranes come into tight contact with the inner walls of the compression chamber. In conclusion, the fourth, extruded part, made of an elastic material, is attached to the outer wall of the compression chamber and is in fluid interaction with it. A fourth, extruded portion forms a pressure vessel which, when compressed, increases the pressure in the compression chamber.

The pump according to EP 1215167 includes four parts, which can be made of similar, however, non-identical materials. However, the pump according to EP 1215167 will not be able to create a suction pressure sufficient to empty the collapsible tank when negative pressure from the collapsible tank will keep the pressure tank from expanding and, therefore, the pump will be very impaired if used with a collapsible tank.

EP 0854685 describes another disposable pump. This pump is made up of two single elements - both made entirely of plastic for ejection as a single unit. The two elements are a chamber forming a housing and a piston comprising a shaft and two one-way valves. The piston is movably placed in the chamber forming the housing, and liquid is discharged from the container by moving the piston outward and inward in the chamber forming the housing. The application explains that if positive pressure is maintained inside the container to which the piston is attached, the pump will reciprocate, for example, manually applied forces can be used to move the piston inward, against the pressure in the container, and the pressure in the container will move the regulator outward, in reverse.

From the above description, it should be understood that if negative pressure is maintained inside the container, as in the case using a folding container, the piston will not be able to return automatically, which means that the fluid supply from the pump is relatively complicated.

Therefore, none of the above pumps is suitable for use with a folding tank. Instead, the known pumps that are used for folding containers are relatively expensive, including a relatively large number of components, and often a wide variety of materials.

From the point of view of the foregoing, there is a need for a disposable pump that can be easily processed and which is suitable for use with a folding container, in particular a semi-rigid type container. Preferably, the pump should be returned back in such a way that no external force should be applied to return the pump to a filled state after dispensing fluid.

Preferably, the pump should be suitable for pumping liquids of different viscosities, from low viscosity material, such as alcohol, to high viscosity, such as liquid soap.

Preferably, the pump should be leakproof. Preferably, the pump should include a reverse suction mechanism for added protection against leakage.

Preferably, the pump should be capable of actuation by using transverse actuation means.

An object of the present invention is to provide a pump that satisfies one or more of the above requirements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This problem is solved by means of a disposable pump for a system for dispensing liquids, in particular for a system for dispensing, which contains a compressible container, while the pump contains

- a housing forming a chamber and an outlet for dispensing, while the pressure in the chamber can be changed to pump fluid from the tank to the chamber and further from the chamber to the dispensing opening,

and

- a regulator, fixedly located in the chamber, for regulating the fluid flow between the container and the chamber and between the chamber and the outlet for dispensing, while the regulator contains

- an external valve for regulating the flow between the chamber and the outlet for delivery,

while the pump can take

- a closed position in which the volume of liquid is discharged from the tank into the chamber by means of the negative pressure created in the chamber,

- and the dispensing position, in which the volume of liquid is discharged from the chamber into the dispensing opening,

wherein

external valve is movable between

- a symmetrical position, which corresponds to the specified closed position of the pump, in which the external valve is in close contact with the housing, and

- a deflected position that corresponds to the indicated position of the pump, in which the external valve is moving in and out of tight contact with the housing depending on changes in pressure in the chamber, and

however, the movement of the specified external valve from the specified symmetrical position to the specified deviated position requires an external force applied to the pump and transmitted to the specified regulator, regardless of changes in pressure in the chamber.

In the pump as suggested above, the liquid is only dispensed when the external valve is in its deflected position, and if, at the same time, the pressure in the chamber is large enough to open the external valve. When the external valve is in its symmetrical position, it is not designed to open at any pressure that may occur in the chamber when the pump is in this position, but will always remain closed.

Moving an external valve from a symmetrical position, which is generally closed, to a deflected position in which the external valve can open and close, requires an external force other than the pressure in the chamber. Therefore, the proposed pump introduces an additional requirement for opening and dispensing fluid to the requirement for sufficient pressure in the chamber, which is common in pumps of the prior art. In the proposed pump, an external force leading to the adoption of the deviated position by the external valve is the first requirement for opening the external valve, and sufficient pressure in the chamber when the external valve is in the deviated position is the second requirement for opening the external valve.

It should be understood that the external valve, theoretically, can be opened in a symmetrical position. However, an external valve, in a general sense, is easier to open when it is in a deflected position. Hereinafter, the term “opening pressure” is used to refer to the pressure difference between two compartments that are sealed by a valve at which the valve will open. Therefore, a valve having a higher opening pressure is more durable and opens less simply than a valve having a lower opening pressure.

The foregoing can be described as an external valve having an opening pressure of a symmetrical position when it is in a symmetrical position and an opening pressure of a deviated position when it is in a deviated position, wherein the opening pressure of the deviated position is less than the opening pressure of the symmetrical position.

It should be understood that the external valve, when it is in a symmetrical position in the chamber, will be symmetrically supported by the walls of the chamber. This usually leads to a relatively large opening pressure. This means that the valve seal in this position is relatively strong, resulting in a pump that will not inadvertently leak.

In the deviated position, the symmetry is broken, and the external valve will asymmetrically contact with the walls of the chamber during sealing. Such a seal usually results in a lower opening pressure than a higher opening pressure obtained in a symmetrical position. Therefore, in this position, the valve will open more easily in order to allow the passage of fluid from the chamber into the outlet for delivery.

Accordingly, the opening pressure of the symmetrical position can be selected independently of the delivery of fluid, but taking into account the protection of the pump from leaking. Therefore, a higher opening pressure can be selected than for pumps of the prior art, where the external valve has only one position in which the opening pressure should not be higher than the pressure at which fluid can still be discharged through it. Therefore, in the proposed pump, the pressure in the chamber can increase quite significantly without opening the external valve for dispensing fluid until an external moving force is applied. Accordingly, an unintentional increase in pressure in the chamber, which can occur when handling the pump or due to temperature differences in the environments, will not lead to the release of fluid from the pump. The proposed pump is very resistant to leakage.

Preferably, the regulator comprises a rod supporting said external valve, wherein the rod is resilient along its length to bend from its original shape in which the external valve takes its symmetrical position into a deformed shape in which the external valve takes its deflected position. Thus, an external force can be applied in such a way as to be transmitted to and deform the rod, leading to the adoption by the external valve of its deflected position, regardless of the actual pressure in the chamber.

Preferably, the stem is resilient in order to automatically return to its original position after bending, leading to the automatic return of the valve to a symmetrical position from the deviated position. Essentially, relieving the external force will automatically cause the pump to return to the closed position.

Preferably, the chamber is resilient to compress around the regulator, so that an external force compressing the chamber will be transmitted to the regulator, causing the external valve to assume a deflected position. In this case, the compression of the chamber will transfer external force to the regulator to move the external valve to a deviated position and at the same time increase the pressure in the chamber.

The above situation will not be excluded by the phrase “regardless of the pressure in the chamber”, as used above. It should be understood that also in this case, the movement of the external valve is caused not by increased pressure in the chamber, but by the action of moving the chamber walls towards the regulator.

In embodiments in which the regulator includes a bendable rod, as described above, it should be understood that the movement of the external valve to the deviated position occurs in the direction opposite to the direction in which the increased pressure in the chamber acts to move the external valve.

However, since the compression of the chamber will lead to the deflection of the external valve and the simultaneous increase in pressure of the liquid contained in the chamber, it should be understood that the pump will dispense liquid as a result of compression. Moving the pump to the dispensing position is caused by the movement of the valve, and opening the external valve, in the dispensing position, is caused by increased pressure in the chamber.

To further increase the difference in opening pressure between the symmetric and deviated position, the external valve may preferably be elastic and have a first flexibility in the first section, the section being in contact with the chamber when the external valve is in the symmetric position and the second flexibility in the second cross-section, wherein the second cross-section is in contact with the chamber when the external valve is in a deflected position, wherein the second flexibility is greater than the first flexibility, resulting in a pressure The opening position of the deflected position will be less than the indicated opening pressure of the symmetrical position.

Thus, the flexibility of the external valve can be used to implement different opening pressures, or to increase different pressures, as already described, which are caused by different locations of the support from the walls of the chamber for the external valve. Flexibility can be controlled by changing the amount of material in different sections of the valve.

Preferably, the external valve has an external shape at least partially repeating the contour of the sphere, so that the first and second round sections having the same radius can be determined, corresponding to the indicated symmetrical and deviated positions, respectively.

Moreover, the partially spherical valve has the advantage that it can be tightly compressed in the chamber, allowing relatively large surface contact between the valve and the chamber. This is especially the case if the sphere and / or chamber are made of elastic material. The relatively large surface contact provides relatively large valve opening pressures.

Preferably, the periphery of the first and second sections have the same size and shape. Therefore, sealing contact with a chamber having a single cross-section at the valve location can be provided both in a symmetrical and in a deflected position.

Preferably, the maximum deflected position may be about 10-45 ° from the symmetrical position, preferably about 20-30 °.

It should be understood that the deviated position is not a fully “open” position, i.e. the external valve does not deviate so as to open. Instead, the deflected position is a position in which the valve acts as a pressure valve opening and closing depending on the surrounding pressures.

To ensure that the external valve does not open too much, i.e. by an amount in which sealing contact with the chamber is no longer possible, a spacer may be provided to keep the valve from deflecting beyond the maximum deflecting position.

In the case where the controller comprises a bendable rod, a spacer may preferably be provided on the rod to limit the movement of the bending of the rod. When the regulator deforms, the spacer will eventually come into contact with the walls of the chamber, therefore, restraining further deformation of the regulator and also setting the limit of deviation of the external valve.

Preferably, the pump consists of only two parts, said casing and said regulator. Naturally, the pump described above can be implemented using any number of parts. However, it is considered particularly preferred that numerous advantages, as explained above, can only be achieved by using two parts of the pump: the casing and the regulator.

Additionally, the present application describes a pump for a system for dispensing liquids, in particular for a dispensing system that contains a compressible container, the pump comprising a chamber in which pressure can be changed to pump fluid from the tank to the chamber, and further from the chamber to the opening for issuing, while the camera contains an internal valve for regulating the flow of fluid between the tank and the camera and an external valve for regulating the flow of fluid between the camera and the opening for issuing

while the pump can take

- a closed position in which the volume of liquid is discharged from the tank into the chamber by means of the negative pressure created in the chamber,

- and the dispensing position, in which the volume of liquid is discharged from the chamber into the dispensing opening,

wherein

the inner valve is a one-way valve for opening for fluid flow in the dispensing direction at an opening pressure of the inner valve acting in the dispensing direction and closing at any pressure acting in the opposite direction to the dispensing direction,

the external valve is a two-way valve for opening for fluid flow in the dispensing direction or in a direction opposite to the dispensing direction, with the opening pressure of the external valve, depending on the direction of opening pressure of the external valve,

thus, when the pump moves from the dispensing position to the closed position, and negative pressure is created in the chamber,

the pressure difference between the container and the chamber will cause the internal valve to open, thereby allowing fluid to flow from the container to the chamber, and

the pressure difference between the dispensing opening and the chamber will cause the external valve to open to allow liquid to be sucked back from the dispensing opening into the chamber.

Typically, negative pressure is created in the chamber when it is empty, that is, when the fluid has just been discharged from the pump. In this situation, the remainder of the liquid may remain near the dispensing opening. With the proposed pump, the pressure difference between the outlet for delivery and the negative pressure in the chamber will cause the external valve to open, and any remaining liquid will be sucked back into the chamber.

Preferably, the pump is designed so that

- when the pump is in its dispensing position, the external valve forms said two-way valve, and

- when the pump is in its closed position, the external valve is sealed between the chamber and the outlet for delivery,

thus, when the pump moves from the dispensing position to the closed position, the external valve will first open to allow liquid to be re-sucked from the dispensing opening into the chamber, and then, when it reaches the closed position, it is sealed between the chamber and the dispensing opening.

In this embodiment, it is ensured that the refueling of the liquid from the tank, when regulated by the internal valve, can prevail over any reverse suction of the liquid, and later air from the outlet for delivery. The chamber, in a general sense, is intended for refueling with liquid from a container, and not with air from an opening. Therefore, it is required that the external valve is opened to allow for reverse suction of the liquid, only for a flow much smaller than the flow of liquid from the tank when controlled by the internal valve. In accordance with the proposed embodiment, the external valve can open for flow in a direction opposite to the direction of delivery, only for a short period of time while moving the pump from the dispensing position to the closed position. However, the internal valve may continue to open for flow in the dispensing direction also when the pump has reached the closed position.

Preferably, when the pump is in its dispensing position, the external valve assumes a deflected position in the chamber, and when the pump is in its closed position, the external valve assumes a symmetrical position in the chamber. In the deflected position, the opening pressure of the external valve may be less than in the symmetrical position, so reverse suction can occur when the valve is in its deflected position, but not when it is in its symmetrical position. While the pump is moving from the dispensing position to the closed position, the external valve can move from the deflected position to the symmetrical position. This means that the external valve can initially open to allow reverse suction, but eventually close when a symmetrical position is reached.

Alternatively, or in addition to the above, the opening pressure of the internal valve may be less than the opening pressure of the external valve, thus, the external valve will close before the internal valve, since the negative pressure in the chamber is equalized.

Preferably, the inner valve, in the closed position, may have a contact area with the chamber larger than the contact area of the external valve in the closed position.

Preferably, the external valve, when closed in the chamber, is compressed in a circumferential direction relative to the uncompressed position of the external valve, and the difference between the diameter of the chamber at the point of contact with the external valve in the closed position and the diameter of the external valve in the uncompressed state is from 0.09 to 0 20 mm, preferably from 0.10 to 0.20 mm, most preferably from 0.10 to 0.15 mm.

Preferably, the inner valve, when closed in the chamber, is compressed in a circumferential direction relative to the uncompressed state of the inner valve, and the difference between the diameter of the chamber at the point of compression in the circumferential direction of the inner valve and the diameter of the inner valve in the uncompressed state is from 0.20 to 0.35 mm in the circumferential direction, preferably 0.25 to 0.35 mm, most preferably 0.25 to 0.30 mm.

Preferably, the inner valve is a parabolic valve. A parabolic valve is suitable as a one-way valve that can be tightly sealed in one direction.

Preferably, the internal valve comprises a rim that is movable to and from the sealing contact with the chamber, said rim forming an angle with the longitudinal axis of the pump, the angle being in the range of 15-30 degrees, more preferably 20-30 degrees, most preferably , 20-25 degrees.

Preferably, the external valve may have an external shape at least partially repeating the contour of the sphere. In a general sense, a spherical shape is preferred for operating as a two-way valve, since opening can be performed in two opposite directions.

Preferably, the external shape of the external valve follows the contour of the sphere to form at least half of the sphere.

Preferably, the external valve comprises a rim that is movable to and from the sealing contact with the chamber, and said rim, when the pump is in its closed position, is bounded between parallel walls of the chamber and runs parallel to these walls.

Moreover, the present application describes a system for issuing, containing

- a folding container for liquid substance and

- a pump tightly attached to the collapsible container for draining the liquid substance from the container during its folding,

- while the pump contains

- a housing forming a chamber and an outlet for dispensing, while the pressure in the chamber can be changed to pump fluid from the tank to the chamber and further from the chamber to the dispensing opening,

- and a regulator fixedly located in the chamber for regulating the fluid flow between the container and the chamber and between the chamber and the outlet for dispensing,

- in this case, the pump can take a closed position in which a volume of liquid is discharged from the tank into the chamber by means of the negative pressure created in the chamber,

- and the dispensing position, in which the volume of liquid is discharged from the chamber into the dispensing opening,

wherein

the pump consists of plastic materials;

and the pump contains

- return means that automatically return the pump from the indicated dispensing position to the specified closed position, since the return means use the elasticity of the specified plastic material to overcome the negative pressure created in the collapsible container during its emptying.

Therefore, in accordance with the invention, the elasticity of the plastic material of the pump is essentially used to effect the return of the pump from the dispensing position to the refueling position. This solution is a significant advantage over prior art systems, as it enables the formation of a return pump only from plastic material.

Preferably, the return means have an initial shape corresponding to the closed position and a deformed shape corresponding to the dispensing position, wherein the return means are resilient in order to move from the original shape to the deformed shape by an external force applied to the pump and automatically take them back initial shape when the specified external force is removed.

Previously, it was not clear that the elasticity of the plastic material may be sufficient to overcome the negative pressure created in the folding container during its emptying.

Preferably, the pump consists of a single housing and a single regulator, therefore, only two parts. The use of several parts is preferable from the point of view of economy for the manufacture and assembly of parts, and contribute to the stability of the pump.

The plastic materials in the pump should not be identical, but preferably should be of the same type so that the pump can be processed as a single unit. Moreover, the compressible bottle should preferably be made of the type of plastic material used by the pump, so that the entire system can be processed as a single unit. This is especially preferred since in this case, people servicing empty systems can avoid any contamination caused by residual liquid from the tank or leaking pump. As will be understood from the following description of the detailed embodiments, the proposed system can be designed so that the pump maintains a compacted state even when the tank is empty. Such embodiments will undoubtedly be especially easy to handle after use.

Preferably, the container is a semi-rigid folding container. Semi-rigid is understood to mean capacity, as mentioned in the introduction, which has at least one relatively rigid part towards which folding of other, less rigid parts will be directed. This type of folding container is preferred in that the information can be printed on the hard part, the information being clearly visible and undistorted, regardless of the degree of folding of the container. Moreover, for some contents, containers having at least one relatively rigid wall may be preferable to bags. However, collapsible containers having at least one relatively rigid wall may require a greater suction force exerted by the pump to overcome the negative pressure created in the vessel during its emptying than the bags. A specific advantage of the proposed system is that it can be sufficient to overcome the relatively large negative pressure, also created by semi-rigid folding containers.

Most preferably, the system comprises a container having one rigid longitudinal half and one compressible longitudinal half, thus, during emptying, the compressible longitudinal half will correspond to the compressible longitudinal half. This type of container is suitable for implementation in many existing systems for delivery, while fulfilling the requirements regarding the visibility of information printed on the container. Moreover, a concrete form with one half contracting onto the other ensures that empty containers require especially little space.

Preferably, the chamber is resilient in order to compress from the original shape corresponding to the closed position of the system to a compressed, deformed shape corresponding to the issuing position of the system, and the camera automatically returns to its original shape after compression, so that the camera forms part of these return means. It should be understood that due to this design, when the external force compressing the camera is removed, the camera tends to take its original shape again. Returning to its original shape means that the chamber expands, which creates negative pressure in the chamber. The negative pressure created in this way will be sufficient to refuel the chamber.

Preferably, the chamber is generally cylindrical.

Preferably, the regulator is resilient along its length in order to bend when an external force is applied to the pump, from the original shape corresponding to the closed position of the system to a deformed shape corresponding to the position of the system, and the controller automatically returns to its original shape when the external force is removed Thus, the regulator forms part of these means of return. When the external force causing the regulator to deform is removed, the regulator will tend to return to its original shape corresponding to the closed position of the pump.

Preferably, the regulator is located inside the chamber, thus, the external force compressing the chamber will simultaneously lead to the bending of the regulator, setting the pump in the dispensing position, and with external force, both the chamber and the regulator will automatically return to their original forms, placing the pump in closed position. This apparatus is particularly suitable since it provides an opportunity for practical embodiments that are relatively leakproof.

Preferably, the regulator comprises a rod and at least one valve, wherein the regulator is resilient along the length of the rod.

Preferably, the controller comprises a shaft and an external valve, wherein the external valve is arranged to control the fluid flow between the chamber and the dispensing opening,

when the regulator takes its original shape, the external valve is located in a symmetrical position in the chamber corresponding to the closed position of the pump,

when the regulator assumes its deformed position, the external valve is located in its deflected position in the chamber corresponding to the pump discharge position.

In this embodiment, the elasticity of the regulator is used to move the external valve so that the valve is in a symmetrical position in the chamber when the pump is in the closed position and a deflected position in the chamber when the pump is in the dispensing position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of a representative embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures 1a-1b schematically show a dispensing / refueling cycle of an embodiment of a pump in accordance with the invention.

FIGS. 2a-2c show the controller of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

Figures 3a-3c show the housing of the embodiment of Fig. 1.

Figures 4a-4c show an embodiment of a connector for use with the pump of Figure 1.

Figures 5a and 5b show the assembly of the controller in Figures 2a-2c, the housing in Figures 3a-3c, and the connector in Figures 4a-4c.

Figures 6a-6c show a system comprising a collapsible container and an assembly of Figures 5a-5b.

The same reference numerals are used to denote the same elements throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

On figa-1d schematically shows one cycle issuing-refueling an embodiment of the pump 1 in accordance with the invention. To simplify figa-1d were deprived of some non-essential features in the explanation of the basic functions of the pump. Instead, the detailed features of the shown embodiment are explained with respect to other drawings and in conjunction with additional advantages of the invention.

In use, the pump 1 is to be tightly attached to a container containing a liquid substance, for example liquid soap or alcohol detergent. The capacity is schematically indicated by 400 in FIGS. 1a-1d. The pump 1 comprises a housing 100 and a regulator 200, which is fixedly mounted in the housing 100. The housing 100 forms a chamber 110, in which, as will be described later, the pressure can be changed to dispense fluid from the pump 1 or to refill fluid from the compressible tank 300. Moreover, the housing 100 forms a dispensing opening 120 through which said fluid may be dispensed.

The controller 200 is fixedly located in the chamber 100 for regulating the flow of fluid between the container 400 and the chamber 110, and between the chamber 110 and the outlet for delivery. In the embodiment shown, the regulator 200 comprises an external valve 220, which, as shown in FIG. 1a, is in close contact with the chamber 110, and which controls the flow of fluid between the dispensing hole 120 and the chamber 110.

The regulator also comprises an internal valve 230, which, as shown in FIG. 1a, is also in close contact with the chamber 110 and which regulates the flow of fluid between the collapsible container 300 and the chamber 110. Additionally, the regulator 200 may preferably comprise fixing means for securing the regulator 200 in the chamber 100. In this embodiment, the mounting means comprises a mounting plate 250.

In this application, the term “inner” or “inner part” is usually used to refer upstream to the container and oppositely with respect to the dispensing direction, while the term “outer” or “outer part” is usually used to point downstream to the outlet and in the direction of issuance.

Issuing position

On figa shows the pump in the closed position. In this application, the term "closed position" is used for a position in which there is no flow between the chamber 110 and the outlet 120. 1a, the pump is in the closed position, which is also the storage position, in which there are no flows in the system. That is, the controller 200 controls the flows so that there is no fluid flow between the container 300 and the chamber 110 or the chamber 110 and the outlet 120. In the shown embodiment, both the external valve 220 and the internal valve 230 are closed and are in close contact with the chamber 110 (i.e., the inner walls of the chamber 110). In use, chamber 110 will be filled with liquid when the pump is in the storage position.

1b shows the pump in the dispensing position. In this application, the term "dispensing position" is used for a position in which a certain volume of liquid can be diverted from the chamber 110 into the dispensing opening 120. In the dispensing position, the external valve 220 is brought into a deviated position under the influence of an external force transmitted to the controller 200.

The opening pressure of the external valve in the deflected position is less than the opening pressure of the external valve in the initial, symmetrical position, i.e. an external valve opens more easily when it is in a deviated position, compared to a symmetrical position. This may be due to the symmetrical maintenance of the external valve 220 in a symmetrical position around its periphery by the walls of the chamber 110. This increases the resistance of the valve to compression. In the deviated position, this symmetry is broken. On one side of the external valve 220, the chamber wall will be in contact with the valve 220 in a position closer to its center than in the symmetrical position, and on the other side of the external valve 220, the chamber wall will be in contact in a position farther from the center of the valve, than in the symmetrical position. Therefore, the “blocking” action achieved through symmetrical forces no longer takes place, which means that the opening pressure of the deflected position is less than the opening pressure of the symmetrical position.

Moreover, in the shown embodiment, the external valve 220 is shaped so that its flexibility in the section of the valve 220, which comes into tight contact with the wall of the chamber 110 in the symmetrical position (Fig. 1a), is less than the flexibility in the section of the valve, which comes into tight contact with the wall of the chamber 110 in a deflected position (fig.1b). When the flexibility of the effectively sealing contact portion of the external valve 220 increases, the opening pressure will decrease. A more detailed description of this embodiment of the external valve 220 will follow later in this application.

It should be understood that in the symmetrical position corresponding to the closed position of the pump, the opening pressure of the external valve 220 can be selected so that it can withstand a certain increase in pressure in the chamber 110 without opening. Only if the external valve 220 is deflected, which requires an external force to be applied to the pump, the external valve 220 can open to allow fluid to be dispensed from the chamber 110.

External valve 220 is designed to operate as a pressure-controlled valve also when in a deflected position. In other words, the external valve 220 will not deflect in order to partially move away from the wall of the chamber 110 and therefore only open by deflection. Instead, if there is no pressure difference between the chamber and the dispensing opening, or there is only a slight pressure difference, the external valve 220 is designed to seal between them, also when it is in its deflected position.

In the shown embodiment, the chamber 110 is resilient to contract when subjected to an external force, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 1b. Compression of chamber 110 will cause an increase in pressure in the fluid contained therein.

Moreover, in the embodiment shown, the regulator 200 is resilient along its length in order to bend from the neutral position, as shown in FIG. 1a, to the deformed position, as shown in FIG. 1b. When the regulator is in its bent position, the external valve 220 assumes a deflected position in the chamber 110.

In the shown embodiment, the controller 100 comprises a spacer 240 to ensure that the external valve 220 does not deviate too far. A spacer 240 is provided on the rod inside the external valve 220 and will contact the inner wall of the chamber 110 during bending of the rod. Essentially, it limits the bending of the shaft and prevents the deflection of the external valve 220 beyond the maximum deflection position.

The embodiment shown is particularly preferred in the sense that the external force performs both compression of the chamber 110, resulting in increased pressure in the chamber 110, and bending of the regulator 200, resulting in a reduced opening pressure of the external valve 220, thereby facilitating the opening of the external valve 220 in this way that liquid will be extruded from chamber 110 into opening 120 for dispensing.

Moreover, the external force compressing the chamber 110 will simultaneously lead to the bending of the regulator 200, setting the pump in the dispensing position.

Above, the general idea of a pump having an external valve moving from a closed position to a dispensing position has been described, has been described with reference to FIGS. 1a and 1b. It should be understood that other embodiments may be provided that will use the present general idea. For example, although it is less preferable, one can imagine using a regulator 200, only a part of which would be made elastic, or a regulator 200, consisting of a number of parts, of which only one is elastic, to perform the movement of the external valve. Also, when using the rigid chamber 110, some other means, such as a separate piston, could be used to move the external valve and, in addition, also to increase the pressure in the chamber.

Automatic return mechanism

A description of the shown embodiment will now be continued with specific reference to FIGS. 1b and 1d.

In the shown embodiment, both the chamber 110 and the regulator 200 are made of elastic materials, preferably plastic materials. In the dispensing position, as shown in FIG. 1b, both the camera 110 and the controller 200 are deviated from their original shapes, as seen in FIG. 1a. When the mechanical action is removed, both the chamber 110 and the regulator 200 will automatically return to their original forms and, therefore, will return to the closed position, as shown, for example, in Fig. 1d.

After the fluid is dispensed, when the external force is removed, the chamber 110 again assumes its original shape and, therefore, expands. The regulator 200 takes its original shape again, causing the external valve 220 to re-take its symmetrical shape, closing the chamber 110. The expansion of the chamber 110 creates a negative pressure in the chamber 110, which will cause the inner valve 230 to open, as shown in fig.1d. Consequently, liquid will be drawn from the reservoir 300 to the chamber 110 to fill the chamber 100. As soon as the chamber is refilled, there will be no negative pressure in the chamber 110, and the internal valve 230 closes again, returning the pump to its original position in Fig. 1a.

In the above and further description, it should be understood that the pump in the closed position refers to a pump that is closed so that the liquid could not pass through the outlet 120 for dispensing. External valve 220 is in its closed, symmetrical position. However, in the closed position, the inner valve 230 may open to refill the chamber 110 with liquid from the tank. Therefore, FIG. 1d shows the closed position of the pump, which also represents the refueling position.

In the shown embodiment, the automatic return of the pump 1 from the dispensing position to the closed position is performed both by the regulator 200 and by the chamber 110, re-taking their original shape after deformation. Therefore, in this embodiment, both the regulator 200 and the chamber 110 form the return means formed by the material of the pump parts.

Therefore, the general idea of a pump having return means made of an elastic plastic material of the pump and using the indicated elasticity to cause automatic return of the pump has been discussed above, have been described with reference to FIGS. 1a and 1d. Moreover, the return means are sufficient to overcome the negative pressure created in the collapsible container. It should be understood that other embodiments may be provided that will use this general idea. For example, although it is considered less preferable, it can be imagined that only one part of the regulator or part of the camera forms a means of return. Also, the return function does not have to be associated with a deflectable external valve (although this is considered particularly preferred).

Reverse suction mechanism

In the above description of the shown embodiment, referring only to FIGS. 1a, 1b and 1d, a substantially possible pump dispensing-refueling cycle is described. However, this description is very simplified. Hereinafter, the general idea of a reverse suction mechanism for a pump for a fluid delivery system will now be described with specific reference to FIG.

The embodiment shown, which was used to explain the idea of the above pump, is also suitable for presenting the general idea of a reverse suction mechanism. However, it should be understood that the reverse suction mechanism can also be used in other contexts than in this particular embodiment.

The reverse suction mechanism is based on providing an internal valve 230, which is a one-way valve, for opening for fluid flow in the dispensing direction with an opening pressure of the internal valve acting in the dispensing direction and closing at any pressure acting in the opposite direction to the dispensing direction; and an external valve 220, which is a two-way valve, for opening for fluid to flow in the dispensing direction or in a direction opposite to the dispensing direction, with the opening pressure of the external valve depending on the direction of the opening pressure of the external valve.

In the shown embodiment, the inner valve 230, in a general sense, is a parabolic valve cooperating with a seat 130 formed by the inner wall of the housing 100. The seat 130 is located closer to the inner valve 230, so that the inner valve 230 will act as one-way valve opening in the direction of delivery.

In the shown embodiment, the external valve 220 is a partially spherical valve interacting with the inner walls of the housing 100. When it is in its deflected position, the external valve 220 will act as a two-way valve that opens to flow in the direction of the pressure gradient between the chamber 110 and the hole 120 for issuance.

When the pump is in the dispensing position, as shown in FIG. 1b, the pressure in the chamber 110 is greater than the pressure in the dispensing hole 120, and an external valve 220 will open to allow fluid to flow from the chamber 110 to the opening 120.

When liquid has been discharged from chamber 110, the pump will move from the dispensing position of fig. 1b to the closed position of fig. 1d, in which the external valve 220 will return to its symmetrical position and negative pressure will be created in chamber 110.

However, the double-sided valve property of the external valve 220 becomes useful during a short transition period in which the pump moves from the dispensing position (Fig. 1b) to the closed position (Fig. 1d), as shown in Fig. 1c. When the external pressure on the chamber is relieved, negative pressure will immediately build up in the chamber 110. However, the return of the external valve 220 from its deflected to its symmetrical position is not as fast as the creation of negative pressure. Therefore, for a short period of time, the external valve 220 remains in its deflected position and, at the same time, negative pressure is present in the chamber 110.

Negative pressure in the chamber 110 will cause the external valve 220 to open to allow remaining liquid and / or air in the dispensing opening to pass into the chamber 110. At the same time, the internal valve 110 will open to allow the passage of fluid from the container 300 to the chamber 110. Therefore, as shown using the arrows in figs, in this case there is one fluid flow in the direction of delivery to the chamber 110 through the internal valve 230, and one fluid flow and / or air, opposite to the direction Get into the chamber 110 through the external valve 220.

However, the external valve 220 will eventually assume its symmetrical position again, as shown in FIG. 1d. In this position, the opening pressure of the external valve is greater than in the deflected position, and the valve will no longer open for flow opposite to the dispensing direction. In contrast, the internal valve 230 remains open until the chamber 110 is refilled with liquid.

Therefore, any liquid remaining in the dispensing opening 120 of the housing 100 after the dispensing position can be sucked back into the chamber 110 when the pump moves from its dispensing position to its closed position. Re-suction should be carried out to a limited extent, since it is undoubtedly required that the chamber rather be filled with liquid from the container 300, and not with air through the outlet 120 for delivery. In accordance with the presented idea of reverse suction, this is achieved since reverse suction only occurs when the pump moves from its dispensing position to its closed position, and since the bulk of the refueling of chamber 110 is performed in the closed position.

Moreover, the opening pressure of the internal valve should preferably be less than the opening pressure of the external valve, so that the external valve will close before the internal valve, since the negative pressure in the chamber is equalized.

In the above example, the general idea of a reverse suction mechanism using a two-way external valve and a one-way external valve has been described with reference to FIG. However, although less preferred than the shown embodiment, it is contemplated that other embodiments using this general idea may be presented. For example, other types of one-way and two-way valves may be provided. Moreover, it is contemplated that the reverse suction mechanism does not need to be associated with automatic return means from elastic materials, but may also occur in embodiments where external force is required to return the system to its closed position.

From the foregoing, at least three general ideas can be noted. First, there is a movement of the external valve between the symmetrical position and the deviated position, which occurs when the pump moves from the closed position to the dispensing position. This feature allows, in particular, pump designs not to have leakage problems. The second - there is an automatic return of the pump to the closed position from the delivery position, while the elasticity of the plastic materials in the pump is used. This feature provides the possibility of significant simplification and processing of structures, which, however, are durable to withstand the negative pressure created in a folding container. Third, there is a reverse suction mechanism that uses a one-way internal valve and a two-way external valve, and takes effect when the pump moves from the dispensing position to the closed position.

It should be understood that the embodiment shown is particularly preferred since it combines all three general ideas in a simple design. However, it is contemplated that the three ideas can be used individually if only one of the specific benefits associated with them is required.

Additional preferred features

Further preferred features of the illustrated embodiment will be described.

REGULATOR

2a-2c show a controller for the described embodiment. Fig. 2a is a perspective view of the regulator, Fig. 2b is a longitudinal section of the regulator, and Fig. 2c is a view of the regulator, which is visible from the innermost end.

External valve

As can be seen in figa and 2b, the external valve 220 has an external shape, partially repeating the contour of the sphere. As best seen in magnification A of FIG. 2b, the sphere extends from the connected portion to the rod along the curve forming the edge 222.

The lip 222 is flexible toward the center of the valve 220 and resilient in order to assume its original shape after bending. The flexibility of the edge 222 is preferably provided by an edge having a substantially constant thickness. In the center of the outer valve 220, surrounded by an edge 222, there is a bulge 224. The material of the bulge 224 and the stem will contribute to the stiffness of the valve 220. Moreover, the bulge 224 is especially useful when the pump is used to pump high viscosity fluids, which will be described later.

At a magnification A, it is seen that the edge 222 forms a straight portion 226 immediately before completion in the form of a relatively short end portion 228, which is curved inward toward the center of the valve 220. However, it is understood that it has a shape mainly (although not necessarily exactly) repeating the outer contour of the sphere. The expression "spherical" should be considered in this context as the opposite, for example, to the conical or parabolic form of the valve.

It should be understood that when the external valve 220 is in its symmetrical position in the chamber 110, the rectilinear portion will be in contact with the walls of the housing. However, one can imagine an embodiment in which the straight portion 226 is replaced by a portion that continues to repeat the exact spherical contour. Also, such a section may be in contact with the walls of the chamber, in a symmetrical position, but, however, it may be partially rectified by the action of the walls of the chamber.

It is assumed that it is preferable if the contour of the external valve forms a portion of the surface that can be parallel to the parallel inner surfaces of the chamber 110. With this design, the portion of the surface of the outer valve can be placed in the chamber 110 so that its walls exert a symmetrical pressure on the portion of the surface valve. The fit between the external valve 220 and the chamber 110 can be selected so as to achieve a relatively relatively open pressure when the external valve 220 is in its symmetrical position, in which the pressure between the parallel walls of the chamber and the parallel surface portions will provide the opening pressure of the external valve.

The inwardly curved portion 228 of the outer valve 220 shown is useful for facilitating movement between the deflected position and the symmetrical position of the valve 220. Moreover, it contributes to the reverse suction function, as it provides a surface on which pressure can be applied to the opening for opening the valve to open the outer valve in a direction opposite to the direction of delivery of the pump.

It should be understood that the external valve 220, when located in the chamber 110, is compressed on the periphery in order to fulfill the function of a seal. Therefore, in a relaxed, uncompressed state, the outer valve 220 has a larger outer diameter than the diameter of the chamber 110 in place of the outer valve 220. As can be understood from FIG. 5b, in the shown embodiment, the outer valve 220 will be located in the outer compartment 112 of the chamber.

Preferably, the difference between the inner diameter of the chamber in place of the outer valve 220 and the outer diameter of the outer valve 220, when not compressed, is from 0.09 to 0.20 mm, preferably from 0.10 to 0.20 mm, most preferably from 0.10 to 0.15 mm.

In the shown embodiment, the difference between the inner diameter of the chamber in place of the outer valve 220 and the outer diameter of the outer valve 220, when uncompressed, is about 0.15 mm.

Spacer

After the external valve 220, a spacer 240 is provided, which is provided for controlling the deflection of the external valve 220 described previously. The external shape of the spacer 240 can be easily installed depending on the external valve 220 and the shape of the chamber 110 to perform its function. In the shown embodiment, the spacer 240 is provided with recesses 242, some longitudinal, some transverse. The recesses 242 facilitate the passage of fluid through the spacer 240. Also, this feature is particularly useful when the pump is used to pump high viscosity fluids, as will be described later.

Kernel

The shaft 210 extends, in a general sense, between the internal valve 230 and the external valve 220. The shaft is resilient to bend and is able to return to its original shape after bending. The length and diameter of the shaft 210 can be selected taking into account these considerations, as well as others, with respect to, for example, the size of the pump. In the embodiment shown, the diameter of the rod is about 3 mm and the length of the entire regulator is about 55 mm. In the shown embodiment, the rod 210 has a constant diameter.

Guide element

After the upper valve 230, a guide member 260 is located on its outer side. The guide member 260 extends perpendicularly in order to limit the movement of bending of the shaft 210 and, in general, to limit bending in the portion of the shaft 210 extending outside the guide member 260. Essentially, the guide member 260 is preferred to ensure that the operation of the inner valve 230 is not disturbed by the bending movement of the shaft 210. The guide member 260 may preferably extend along the periphery of the shaft 210 for symmetrical limiting the movement of the rod. In the shown embodiment, the guide member 260 is formed by four guide bars 262 arranged so as to form a cross with a shaft 210 in its center.

Internal valve

The inner valve 230 comprises a valve element extending peripherally from the stem 210. The width of the valve element is generally constant from the point where the valve element extends from the stem 210 and to its outer end. In the embodiment shown, the shape of the valve member may be described as generally forming a parabola shape. However, as can be understood from the increase in B, the valve element does not accurately follow the contour of the parabola. Preferably, the valve element forms a number of more straightforward sections, which, when considered as a whole, can, in general, be considered to follow the contour of the parabola.

The inner surface of the valve element is connected to the spacer element 234. The spacer element 234 is more rigid than the valve element and works to limit the movement of the valve element. Preferably, the spacer element 234 is attached to the upper surface of the valve element at several points of connection. At these points, the spacer member 234 rigidly connects the valve member to the shaft 210. Therefore, the valve member is fixed at the junctions and is restrained from moving outward or inward at these points.

By inhibiting inward movement, the spacer element 234 ensures that the valve element cannot rotate in the wrong direction, i.e. in the opposite direction to the dispensing direction, even if the pressure in the chamber 110 would be higher than the pressure in the vessel 300 to which the pump is connected. This feature is particularly useful when the pump is used to empty the collapsible receptacle 300. In the collapsible receptacle 300, and in particular for the semi-rigid collapsible receptacle 300, negative pressure can be created in the receptacle when liquid is removed from it by the pump. Therefore, when the pump is in the closed position and the chamber 110 is filled with liquid to be dispensed in the next dispensing cycle, the pressure in the chamber 110 may be greater than the pressure in the reservoir 300. Moreover, the pressure gradient between the chamber 110 and the reservoir 300 can be relatively large . The spacer element 234 provides an internal valve 230, which is a rigid one-way valve that can withstand relatively large pressure gradients in the opposite direction to the dispensing direction without opening.

By inhibiting outward movement, the spacer element 234 helps control the opening of the internal valve 230.

In the shown embodiment, the spacer element 234 comprises four vanes extending from the shaft 210 and forming a cross with the shaft 210 in the center. The blades are attached to the valve element at the joints along the outside of the blades.

It should be understood that the spacer element 234 should not restrain the movement of the entire valve element. Some portions of the valve element must remain movable in order to be able to open and close. This can be provided by the joints between the spacer 234 and the valve element, which are limited on the inner region of the valve element, leaving the edge 232 without any connection with the spacer 234, and extending along the periphery of the valve element. Alternatively, or in combination with an edge 234, portions of the valve member extending between spaced apart junctions of the spacer 234 may be movable to open and close the valve. However, in particular, for use with a collapsible container in which negative pressure can be created as described above, it is preferable that the lip 232 is designed so as not to be compromised by the ability of the spacers 234 to inhibit the back opening of the internal valve 230 to allow opening valve in the right direction.

In the shown embodiment, there is an edge 232 without being connected to the spacer 234, which extends along the periphery of the valve element. It is assumed that the shape of this lip 232 is more important for the valve sealing function than the shapes of the valve internal parts, which are, however, substantially blocked from movement by the spacer 234.

Edge 232 will contact housing 100 when closed and will be moved from housing 100 to the open position. As can be understood from fig.5b, the edge 232, preferably, can interact with the collar 119 formed on the wall of the chamber. Therefore, the re-opening of the valve 230 at the edge 232 is restrained due to the presence of the flange 119.

The edge 232 forms an angle α with the longitudinal axis of the controller 200 (i.e., with the shaft 210). It is preferred that the angle α lies in the range of 15-30 degrees, more preferably 20-30 degrees, most preferably 20-25 degrees. In the embodiment shown, the angle α is about 23 degrees.

The thickness of the edge 232 should be selected depending on the elastic plastic material so that the flexibility of the edge 232 allows opening and closing of the internal valve. It is assumed that it is preferable from the point of view of elasticity if the thickness of the edge 232 was essentially constant over the entire area of the edge 232. Preferably, the thickness can be from 0.2 to 0.4 mm. In the shown embodiment, the edge thickness is about 0.3 mm.

From the point of view of the above option, it is contemplated that the inner valve member, in general 232, may be formed with other general shapes other than the parabola shape. For example, an internal valve element may have a generally conical shape. In general, the shape of the parts restrained from movement by the spacer 234 can be freely selected since the parts will not be movable. However, it is believed that it is preferable that the flange 232 of the valve member has the properties described above.

In general, it should be understood that the internal valve 230 may help seal the entire system, consisting of a collapsible container in a liquid tight connection to the pump. The internal valve 230 should be a robust one-way valve that opens only in the dispensing direction and at the opening pressure of the internal valve. When negative pressure is created in the tank, only a larger negative pressure in the chamber can cause the internal valve to open. Negative pressure in the chamber is created only immediately after the liquid is dispensed, when the chamber 110 is to be refilled. In all other situations, in particular in a situation where the pump is not in operation, but the chamber must be closed and filled with liquid, there is a negative pressure in the bottle and a higher pressure in the chamber. Therefore, the internal valve 230 will reliably seal the container from the chamber. This means that in this situation, an external valve 220 is only required to ensure that the contents of the chamber do not leak, i.e. it is not necessary that the external valve 220 carries any weight from the contents of the container.

It should be understood that the internal valve 230, when located in the chamber 110, is peripherally compressed. Therefore, in a relaxed, uncompressed state, the inner valve 230 has a larger outer diameter than the diameter of the chamber 110 in place of the inner valve 230. As can be understood from FIG. 5b, in the shown embodiment, the inner valve 220 will be located at the top of the central compartment 114 camera body.

Preferably, the difference between the inner diameter of the chamber in place of the inner valve 230 and the outer diameter of the inner valve 230, when not compressed, is from 0.20 to 0.35 mm, preferably from 0.25 to 0.35 mm, most preferably from 0.25 to 0.30 mm.

In the embodiment shown, the difference between the inner diameter of the chamber in place of the inner valve 230 and the outer diameter of the inner valve 230, when uncompressed, is about 0.3 mm.

Fixing plate

Moreover, the regulator 200 is provided with fixing means for securing the regulator 200 in the housing 100. In the embodiment shown, the fixing means comprises a fixing plate 250 located on the shaft 210. Preferably, a fixing plate 250 is provided, as shown, at the innermost end of the shaft 210. The mounting plate 250 is a round plate that is inserted into the corresponding protrusion on the innermost part of the housing 100. The plate 250 is made with holes 252 for leakage to ensure possible STI fluid to flow from the tank 300 to the pump. The size and shape of the flow openings 252 may be selected so as to control the amount of flow from the reservoir 300 to the pump. For example, leakage holes 252 may be formed as cutouts extending from the edge of the mounting plate 250 towards its center.

In the embodiment shown, in the mounting plate 250 there are three circular leakage holes 252. If the pump is used to pump liquids with relatively high viscosities, it is believed that it is preferable to provide a larger area of the flow openings 252 than the openings of the illustrated embodiment. For highly viscous liquids, two relatively large cuts can be formed opposite each other. By adjusting the size of the cutouts, fluid flow can be controlled. For example, two cutouts can occupy almost half the surface of the mounting plate 250, with each cutout forming approximately a quarter of a circle.

HOUSING

Figures 3a-3c show a case of an illustrative embodiment. Fig. 3a is a perspective view of the housing, Fig. 3b is a cross-section of the housing, and Fig. 3c is an image of a controller, as seen from the outer end.

The housing 100 is generally cylindrical extending from the innermost portion provided with the connector 140 for connection to the receptacle, to the outermost portion including a dispensing hole 120.

Closing element

As seen in FIGS. 3a-3b, the housing 100 may initially be provided with a closing member 130 for sealing the dispensing opening 120. The closure member 130 is removed when the pump is driven. The closure element 130 will ensure the tightness of the pump during, for example, transportation and storage, so that foreign substances or contaminants do not accidentally enter the housing 100 through the outlet 120 for dispensing. In the embodiment shown, the closure 130 is integrally formed with the housing 100. The closure 130 includes a cap that is connected to the housing to surround the dispensing opening 120 by means of a weakening opening line 132. The thickness of the body material is reduced along the weakening line, so that the closing element 130 can be removed by pulling or twisting the cap, causing the weakening line 132 to open.

From a manufacturing point of view, as well as for safety reasons, it is particularly preferred to integrate the closure 130 with the housing 100, an example of which is shown in the illustrated embodiment. However, of course, other, less preferred closure elements are possible, for example a closure tape or a separate closure plug.

External office

The outermost part of the housing forms the outer compartment 112. As can be understood from FIG. 5b, the outer valve 220 will be limited in the outer compartment 112 in the assembled pump.

Therefore, the inner diameter of the outer compartment 112 and the outer diameter of the outer valve 220 must be adapted so as to provide the required sealing effect. For this purpose, the outer diameter of the outer valve 220 is generally slightly larger than the inner diameter of the outer compartment 112, so that the outer valve 220 is slightly compressed when in place in the outer compartment, causing the inner wall of the outer compartment 112 to compress the outer valve 220 The size difference between the external compartment 112 and the external valve 220 may be selected for reasons of elasticity and flexibility of the external valve 220 in order to obtain a sufficiently strong seal of the external valve 220. However, it should be understood b, that the size difference mentioned in this context is small, probably in the range of 1-2%, which corresponds to 0.15 mm in the embodiment shown.

When the housing is made of an elastic material, as in the embodiment shown, it is generally required that the shape of the housing on the external compartment 112 be relatively stable, since otherwise the operation of the external valve 220 to be placed there may be degraded. Therefore, in the shown embodiment, the thickness of the walls of the housing surrounding the outer compartment 112 is relatively large.

Flow Control

The end portion of the outer compartment 112, in which the dispensing opening 120 is provided, comprises flow control means 138. Flow control means 138 are provided to ensure proper operation of pump 1, also when pumping liquids having a relatively high viscosity.

As briefly mentioned earlier, high viscosity fluids will impose special requirements on the pump. Since the shaft 210 is resilient, it can bend not only in the lateral direction as during bending, but it can also be elongated. This can happen when the pump is used to pump high viscosity liquids. The pressure from the high viscosity fluid, when the outer valve 220 is in its closed symmetrical position in the outer compartment 112, can cause the stem 210 to lengthen, thus, the outer valve 220 is pushed outward towards the end of the housing 100, while still remaining in symmetrical position in the housing. If flow control means 138 were not provided, the external valve 220 would risk contacting the bottom of the external compartment 112 with the dispensing port 120, such a situation could impair the operation of the external valve 220.

In order for the external valve 220 to operate when the stem 210 is in an extended position, flow control means 138 are provided to eliminate contact of the external valve 220 with the dispensing hole 120 and the end wall of the housing 100. Therefore, the flow control means 138 generally consists of separating structures that are distributed around the outlet 120 for issuing and which form a stopper for the external valve 220.

In the shown embodiment, the flow control means 138 comprises an annular protrusion 134 surrounding a dispensing opening 120. A plurality of grooves 136 are located on the protrusion 134 to allow fluid to flow through the dispensing opening 120 when the external valve 220 is in contact with the protrusion 134. In this particular embodiment, there are four grooves extending from the dispensing opening 120 through the protrusion 234 and forming a cross with an opening for extradition in its center. As mentioned previously, the outer valve 220 of the shown embodiment comprises a central bulge 224. When the external valve 220 is in contact with the protrusion 134, the bulge 224 will be located on the protrusion 134. The edge 222 of the external valve 220 may extend around the protrusion 134, so that the sealing function is not disturbed by contact with the flow control means 138. From this point of view, the external valve 220 may be deflected and opened to dispense liquid, as described previously. The passage of fluid through the dispensing opening will take place through grooves 136 on the protrusion 134. Also, any re-absorption of fluid may take place through the grooves 136.

From the point of view of the foregoing, it should be understood that the flow control means 138 can be provided at the end of the external compartment 112 to interact with some central adjacent means 224 of the external valve, so if the regulator 200 is stretched, for example, when a high viscosity fluid is pumped, the central adjoining means may be in contact with flow-controlling means, while ensuring operation of external valve 220. This can be achieved by convexity 224 of external valve 220, in contact with the flow control means, while allowing the edge 222 of the external valve 220 to pass around the flow control means, so that its operation does not deteriorate.

When the adjuster 200 is in the extended position, the spacer 240 can move forward, so that it at least partially enters the outer compartment 112. As can be understood from FIG. 5b, the spacer 240 can also be configured to limit elongation. the regulator 200, due to provision with expandable structures that cannot extend into the external compartment 112. The recesses 242 on the spacer 240 are useful to facilitate the passage of fluid through the spacer 240 if the spacer is at least partially inserted ene in a relatively narrow outer compartment 112.

Incline

At the innermost end of the outer compartment 112, the inner diameter of the housing 100 expands toward the central compartment 114. The central compartment 114 will generally contain the volume of fluid to be dispensed. Therefore, the size of the central compartment 114 must be selected in accordance with the required maximum volume to be dispensed.

In the embodiment shown, the inner diameter of the central compartment 114 is larger than the inner diameter of the outer compartment. The diameter does not expand sharply, but gradually increases along part of the length of the housing so as to form an inclination 118. The inclination 118 is useful in that it increases the flow of fluid in the housing 100. Moreover, the inclination 118 can contact the spacer 240 of the regulator 200 to control bending the controller 200. By adjusting the tilt circuit 118 and the spacer circuit 240, the bending of the controller can be controlled, in particular, as mentioned above, so that the deviation of the external valve 220 is limited.

Shoulder

At the innermost end of the central compartment, the inner wall of the housing 100 forms a collar 119 to form a seat on the inner valve 130. Therefore, the inner diameter of the housing 100 narrows to form a seat on which the inner valve 130 can rest in the opposite direction to the dispensing direction. The size and shape of the shoulder should be adapted to the inner valve 130 in such a way as to form a reliable one-way valve, as described previously.

In particular, when the inner valve 130 comprises a spacer element 234 and an edge 232, it should be understood that the collar 119 must be designed to form a support for the edge 232. Therefore, it can be said that the spacer element 234 and the collar 119 are interacting - both holding back the opening of the internal valve 130 in the wrong direction.

It should be understood that without the spacer 234 and, in particular, if a relatively flexible internal valve 134 is used, there may be a risk that the internal valve 134 will deform so that the edge 232 slides off the flange 119 and the valve 134 opens in the opposite direction direction of issue. Therefore, the spacer element 234 is particularly useful when using relatively flexible valves.

Interior office

On the inside of the collar 119, the housing 100 forms the inner compartment 116. The inner compartment 116 will accommodate the spacer 234 and the mount between the regulator 200 and the housing 100. In the shown embodiment, the regulator mounting plate 250 is secured in a corresponding fixing groove 117 on the inner wall of the inner compartment 116.

Body wall

In general, the wall thickness of the housing is suitable to provide the required elasticity of the chamber 100. It should be understood that in the shown embodiment, the chamber 110 is essentially formed by the central compartment 114 of the housing 100. Therefore, the wall thickness of the housing is relatively thin on the central compartment 114 to provide compressing the chamber 100. The wall thickness of the housing on the outer compartment 112 and the inner compartment 116 is relatively thick, so the shape of the shell is maintained more constant on these s 112, 116. This ensures proper operation of the inner and outer valves 130, 120.

Ring ledge

The innermost end of the housing 100 is provided with a connecting element for connecting, directly or through some additional connecting means, with a container. In the shown embodiment, the connecting element comprises an annular protrusion 140, which is connected to the container via a separate connector 300. The annular protrusion 140 extends from the innermost part of the inner compartment 116 of the housing 100 and back to the outer end of the housing 100. The annular protrusion 140 in this embodiment, in in general, is conical, extending outward from the innermost end.

The outer surface of the annular protrusion 140, preferably, can be made with cavities 142. In the described embodiment, the depressions 142 form a stepped shape on the conical annular protrusion 140.

CONNECTOR

4a-4c show an embodiment of a connector for connecting a pump of an illustrative embodiment to a container. Fig. 4a is a perspective view of a connector, Fig. 4b is a longitudinal section of a connector, and Fig. 4c is a top view of a connector.

Connector 300 comprises a generally annular main body 308 defining an opening in which the pump will be located. The inner flange 302 extends from the inner periphery of the main part 308, and the outer flange 304 extends from the outer periphery of the main part 308. The outer flange 304 is provided with two circumferentially extending recesses 306 on the side facing the inner flange 302.

A recess 306 closest to the main body 308 is for snap engagement with the outermost portion of the annular protrusion 140 of the housing for attaching the pump to the connector 300. Another recess 306 is for engaging with snap in engagement with a portion of the container 400, as will be described later.

In general, it is contemplated that it is preferable that a connector 300 is provided with the snap engagement devices to provide snap engagement with the pump and the reservoir. Moreover, it is contemplated that other embodiments of the connectors are provided that provide such snap-in clutches other than the one described. In particular, the shape, size and arrangement of the snap engagement mechanisms may vary, as, of course, the design of the connecting devices of the housing and the container may change.

PUMP AND RING ASSEMBLY ASSEMBLY

Preferably, the pump is formed, as in the shown embodiment, of only two parts. Preferably, one part forms the regulator 200 and the other forms the housing 100. Consequently, the pump can be easily assembled by inserting the regulator 200 into the housing 100 so that the fastener 200 of the regulator can engage with the snap in the locking device in the housing 100. Therefore, the assembly The pump is especially simple and reliable. In the embodiment shown, the fastener consists of a locking plate 250, which engages with a snap in the locking device, which is a locking groove 117.

It should be understood that the two parts are preferably made of an elastic plastic material. Thus, the elastic properties of the materials are also useful in forming a snap engagement of the controller 200 in the housing 100. However, to ensure reliable locking, it should be understood that the snap engagement should be relatively strong. The required strength can be easily achieved by adjusting the structure and thickness of the material, for example, the thickness of the mounting plate 250 in the embodiment shown.

Moreover, when used with the connector 300, as described above, the assembled pump is easily connected to the connector by inserting the housing through the annular opening of the connector 300, and by providing a snap engagement lock between the housing 100 and the connector 300. Therefore, preferably, the first coupling occurs with a snap between the controller 200 and the housing 100, and a second clutch with a snap between the housing and the connector 300.

In the shown embodiment, the second snap engagement is obtained by the outermost depression 142 of the annular protrusion 140 of the housing 100, which forms the snap lock, when placed in the lowest recess 306 on the outer flange 304 of the connector 300. The annular protrusion 140 is therefore located between the inner flange 302 and outer flange 304 of the connector.

FIG. 5 a shows how connector 300, housing 100, and controller 200 can be inserted into each other to form a connector-pump assembly.

Fig. 5b is a longitudinal section of a connector-pump assembly and shows how detailed features, as described above, are combined in the shown embodiment.

An external valve 220 is located in the outer compartment 112 of the housing 100, while its edge 222 is in contact with the wall of the chamber. 5b, the rod 210 is relaxed, as when the pump is empty or when it is used to pump relatively low viscosity fluids. It should be understood that if the rod 210 is stretched when pumping liquids with a relatively high viscosity, the bulge 224 of the external valve 220 may be in contact with the flow control means 138 surrounding the outlet 120 for dispensing.

The spacer 240 is located adjacent to the flange 118 of the chamber wall, and it should be understood that when the shaft 210 is bent to deflect the external valve 220, the spacer 240 will restrict the movement of bending by coming into contact with the collar 118 and / or with other parts of the inner wall housing 100.

The central compartment 114 of the housing 100 extends along a selected length and surrounds the shaft 210. It should be understood that the central compartment 114 facilitates pumping of the volume and provides space for bending the shaft 210. Moreover, the central compartment 114 is essentially a part of the chamber that will compress when pumping, which is why the size of the central compartment also relates to the suction force of the pump. As mentioned previously, the wall thickness of the central compartment can be selected so as to provide suitable resilience for the operation of the pump.

However, in the inner part of the central compartment 114, the wall thickness is already increased, in order to stiffen the design of the pump, until the inner valve 130 is reached. (It may be noted that the wall thickness of the housing is relatively thick, surrounding the inner valve 130 and the outer valve 120, but relatively thin for the formation of a pumping section between them). A relatively thick-walled portion of the central compartment 114 surrounds a guide member 260 provided on the shaft 210, which, likewise, is a structure for restricting movements of the internal valve 130.

As you can see, the inner valve 130 is in place, while its edge 232 is in contact with the shoulder 119 of the housing 100. The spacer element 234, which operates to regulate the internal valve 130, is surrounded by an internal compartment 116 of the housing.

Finally, the fastener 250 is in place in the fixing groove 117 of the housing 100, locking the regulator 200 in the housing 100.

It should be understood that the shown embodiment of the pump formed by the housing 100 and the regulator 200, can be used with other connectors other than the embodiment described here. For this purpose, the housing 100 may essentially be provided with other connecting means 140 other than those described herein.

However, it is contemplated that the connector shown is particularly preferred due to its simple assembly and reliable fluid-tight connection. In this embodiment, the annular protrusion 140 engages with a snap in the connector 300, as described previously. When the annular protrusion 140 is in place in the connector 300, it is seen that space is formed between the annular protrusion 140 and the innermost protrusion 306 of the connector 300. It should be understood that the designated container may be located in this space and engage with the snap to lock using the innermost protrusion 306 of the connector 300. The depressions 142 of the annular protrusion 140, therefore, will work to increase the friction and the adhesion of the snap.

SYSTEM

Figures 6a-6c show an embodiment of a dispensing system comprising a collapsible container, pump, and connector, as described above. Fig. 6a is a perspective view of a dispensing system, Fig. 6b is a longitudinal section of a dispensing system, and Fig. 6c is a bottom view of a dispensing system.

The collapsible receptacle 400 is preferably a semi-rigid receptacle type having a relatively rigid portion 410 and a collapsible portion 420. In general, a difference in stiffness of the portions can be achieved by providing portions with walls having different material thicknesses, while the rigid portion 410 has a larger wall thickness than folding part 420.

The container 400 shown is intended to be particularly preferred, having only one rigid part 410 and one folding part 420. The folding part 420 can fold into the rigid part when the bottle is empty. During folding, the rigid portion 410 will provide sufficient support to maintain an adjustable position of the container 400 in, for example, a dispenser. This is especially preferred when the information is printed on the container and it is required that said information be visible through, for example, a window in the device for dispensing throughout the entire emptying process.

The container 400 shown is longitudinally divided so that the rigid portion 410 approximately forms one longitudinal half of the container 400 and the collapsible portion 420 approximately forms the other longitudinal half. The outlet 430 is formed by extending from the end wall of the rigid portion 410. The outlet 430 forming the portion of the rigid portion 410 is preferred from a manufacturing point of view and ensures that the position and construction of the outlet 430 is constant.

From figs it can be understood how the pump 1 is located relative to the outlet 430 on the rigid part 410 of the tank. Moreover, it can be seen that the rigid part 410, in this case, forms a substantially regular cylindrical longitudinal outer wall, while the folding part forms a slightly expanding structure having a more complex shape, having two thickenings or gently sloping corners.

Fig. 6b shows the connection between the collapsible tank 400 and the pump 1 through the connector 300, with particular reference to the increase of A. The connection between the pump 1 and the connector 300 has been described above. A container 400 is provided with a connecting part 432 at its outlet 430. The connecting part 432 is formed so as to be located in an open space formed between the annular protrusion 140 of the pump and the outer flange 304 of the connector 300. To perform locking engagement with a snap between the connector 300 and the tank 400, a connecting part 432 with a rib 434 is provided for engaging with the innermost recess 306 of the connector 300. The force of interaction of the parts is increased by depressions 142 of the annular protrusion and 140, which will interact with the inner side of the connecting part 432 of the tank 400 and increase friction against disassembling the parts.

It should be understood that due to the snap coupling of all the constituent elements, the assembly of the entire system is particularly simple. However, the connection is liquid tight and reliable, ensuring that air or contaminants do not penetrate the system and that the system does not leak.

MANUFACTURE AND MATERIALS

Preferably, the controller and housing can be made of polypropylene-based materials. Materials should be selected in such a way as to provide sufficient elasticity for the required functions. For functions that depend on the ability of the material to take its original shape again after deformation, it is assumed that the parts must be able to take their shape again after at least 1000 deformations, in order to guarantee operation until the container is empty. This number, of course, depends on the size of the container, and can only be considered approximate. Pumps were made in which the parts withstand at least 10,000 deformations, which is much more than the established requirements.

Preferably, the regulator and the housing may be made of low density materials.

Moreover, the materials in the pump must be selected so that they can withstand the pumped liquid, that is, so as not to collapse from it.

Preferably, the material or materials in the pump should be of the same type, so that the pump can be processed as a single unit, without preliminary disassembly.

Preferably, the controller and the housing can be injection molded.

Preferably, the container may be made of a material based on polypropylene or high density polyethylene. It is especially preferred if the container is made of the same type of material as the materials in the pump, so that the entire delivery system can be discarded and processed as a single unit.

Preferably, the container may be formed by blow molding.

It can be readily understood that numerous alternative embodiments may be contemplated, including one or more of the aforementioned preferred features.

Claims (16)

1. Disposable pump for a system for dispensing liquids, in particular for a system for dispensing, which contains a compressible container (400), while the pump (1) contains
- a housing (100) forming a chamber (110) and an opening (120) for dispensing,
the pressure in the chamber (110) can be changed to pump liquid from the tank (400) into the chamber (110) and further from the chamber (110) into the outlet for dispensing,
and
- a regulator (200), fixedly located in the chamber (110), for regulating the fluid flow between the container (400) and the chamber (110) and between the chamber (400) and the outlet (120) for dispensing, while the regulator (200) contains
- an external valve (220) for regulating the flow between the chamber (110) and the hole (120) for delivery,
while the pump (1) can take
- a closed position in which the volume of liquid is discharged from the container (400) into the chamber (110) by means of the negative pressure created in the chamber (110),
- and the dispensing position, in which the volume of liquid is discharged from the chamber (110) into the outlet (120) for dispensing,
characterized in that it contains
external valve (220) moving between
- a symmetrical position, which corresponds to the specified closed position of the pump (1), in which the external valve (220) is in tight contact with the housing (100), and
- a deviated position that corresponds to the indicated position of the pump (1), in which the external valve (220) is moving in and out of tight contact with the housing (100) depending on the pressure in the chamber (110), and
however, the movement of the external valve (220) from the symmetrical position to the deviated position requires an external force applied to the pump (1) and transmitted to the controller (200), regardless of changes in the pressure in the chamber (110). 2. The pump according to claim 1, in which the external valve (220) has an opening pressure of a symmetrical position when it is in a symmetrical position, an opening pressure of a deviated position when it is in a deviated position, wherein the opening pressure of the deviated position is less than the pressure opening symmetrical position. 3. The pump according to claim 1 or 2, in which the controller (200) comprises a shaft (210) supporting said external valve, and wherein the shaft (210) is elastic along its length so as to bend from the original shape in which the external valve (220) takes its symmetrical position into a deformed shape in which the external valve (220) takes its deflected position, while said bending requires an external force applied to the pump (1) and transmitted to the regulator (200), regardless of pressure changes in the chamber (110). 4. The pump according to claim 3, in which the rod (210) is elastic to automatically return to its original shape from a deformed shape when the external force is removed, leading to the automatic return of the valve (220) from the deflected position to a symmetrical position. 5. The pump according to claim 1, in which the chamber (110) is elastic in order to compress around the regulator (200), thus, an external force compressing the chamber (110) is transmitted to the regulator (200) to move the external valve ( 220) from symmetrical to deviated position. 6. The pump according to claim 1, in which the external valve (220) is elastic and has a first flexibility in the first section, the first section being in contact with the housing (100) when the external valve (220) is in a symmetrical position, and the second flexibility in the second section, wherein the second section is in contact with the housing (100) when the external valve (220) is in a deviated position, while the second flexibility is greater than the first flexibility, resulting in opening pressure of the deviated position less than the opening pressure of the symmetric n Proposition. 7. The pump according to claim 6, in which the periphery of the first and second sections have the same size and shape. 8. The pump according to claim 6, in which the external valve (220) has an external shape at least partially repeating the contour of the sphere, so that the first and second circular sections having the same radius can be determined, corresponding to the indicated symmetrical and deviated positions, respectively . 9. The pump according to claim 1, in which the controller (200) further comprises an internal valve (230). 10. The pump according to claim 9, in which the internal valve (230) forms a one-way valve in the housing (100). 11. The pump according to claim 9, in which the controller (200) comprises a shaft (210) supporting said external valve and said internal valve. 12. The pump according to claim 1, in which the maximum deflected position is about 10-45 ° from the symmetrical position, preferably about 20-30 °. 13. The pump according to claim 3, in which the spacer (240) is made on the rod (210) to limit the movement of the bending of the rod (210). 14. The pump according to claim 1, in which the pump (1) consists of a housing (100) and a controller (200). 15. A dispensing system comprising a pump according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said pump is in fluid-tight connection with a collapsible container (400) for containing liquid to be dispensed by pump (1). 16. A method for dispensing a fluid using a pump according to any one of claims 1 to 14, which is connected to a container containing the specified fluid medium containing the steps
- applying external force to the pump to dispense fluid from it; and
- removing said external force, whereby the pump can return to the closed position.

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