WO2007043092A1

WO2007043092A1 - Stick product dispense

Info

Publication number: WO2007043092A1
Application number: PCT/IT2006/000727
Authority: WO
Inventors: Roberto Vincenzo Garziera
Original assignee: Roberto Vincenzo Garziera
Priority date: 2005-10-14
Filing date: 2006-10-12
Publication date: 2007-04-19
Also published as: ITMI20051950A1

Abstract

A dispenser for stick product (80, 480) designed to both expel and retract the stick product (80, 480) through translational reciprocating axial movements of an actuator (70, 470) , with the help of ratchet and pawl mechanisms (25, 26, 65, 125, 126, 445, 446, 465, 467) . The direction of the movement of the stick product (80, 480) is reversed by rotating the actuator (70, 470) . The ratchet and paw mechanisms (25, 26, 65, 125, 126, 445, 446, 465, 467) geometrically couple the stick product (80, 480) to the dispenser preventing inadvertent backwards movement of the stick product (80, 480) .

Description

STICK PRODUCT DISPENSER

DESCRIPTION

[0001] . The present invention relates to a dispenser for stick products, particularly dense consumable substances, either pasty or solid, such as by way of non-limiting example, pencil leads, cosmetic preparations, pharmacological preparations, glues, etc. [0002] . A conventional dispenser for stick substances, such as by way of non-limiting example, a lipstick or deodorant, usually comprises a cylindrical container having an opening for a stick end to be extended for use. The stick is usually inserted at the opposite end in a generally cup-shaped slide, which can translate within said container. In many cases, the cursor is moved by mechanisms that are arranged to control the amount of stick that is extended from the container thus remaining exposed for use. [0003] . A number of solutions are known of dispensers for pasty substances which provide several mechanisms for extending the product. FR 2393547, US 6,200,047 and EP 1468937, for example, show dispensers for cosmetics in which the dispensing system is obtained through screw-nutscrew or cam mechanisms that are activated by a rotation of an actuator relative to the container. These solutions do not provide for measures directed to accurately control the amount dispensed. US 4,595,124 introduces a system based on a toothed surface being fitted on an elastic notch, which has the task of chanting the movement of a screw-nutscrew mechanism with a series of sound trips; a predetermined rotation of the screw, and accordingly a determined advance of the product, corresponds to a certain number of trips . It should be understood that in both cases illustrated above, adjusting the amount of extended product is relied to the user's skill and care.

[0004] . Dispensers for stick substances that have such mechanisms allowing for a more accurate adjustment of the extended amount of product are shown, for example, in US 5,570,821, US 5,356,037, US 6,173,869, US 2,541,949, US 4,763,815, US 4,323,176, US 5,725,133, US 5,000,356, PR 2664509, US 20050063766A1, US 5,839,622, US 6,592,278 and US 3,612,349, in which a ratchet gearing or combined ratchet and screw—nutscrew mechanisms turn a reciprocating movement being applied to an actuator to an intermittent movement being transmitted to the product.

[0005] . In some cases, the provision of slide-holding devices, which are obtained, by way of non-limiting example, with ratchets, allows for a very accurate and repetitive extension of the product . On the other hand, these mechanisms do not allow for reversible movement, thereby they do not allow the product to be retracted for being re-introduced within the container after use, and the possibility for them to be used in the practice is thereby limited.

[0006] . On the other hand, dispensers for stick substances are known, in which the product is extended by means of a reciprocating action imparted to an actuator, which have such mechanisms as to transmit a reversible movement to the slide. US 5,860,572 and US 5,234,136 show, for example, dispensers of this type, having product delivery mechanisms based on linear ratchet gears. In both cases, a cursor is moved by two linear ratchets, the one of which is for extension and the other for retraction. Suitable systems allow selecting the movement direction. By means of friction systems, the cursor is held in any position that it has reached during the intermittent movement which is transmitted thereto. It should be understood that these holding systems, as they are friction- actuated, do not ensure that, after the slide has been brought to a determined position, it will remain there during the actuator return and ratchet reload step, by way of a non-limiting example, or while the product is being applied.

[0007] . The object of the present invention is to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks, and particularly that of providing a dispenser for stick substances, which allows the product to be extended from, and retracted into a container by a reversible, non- backward movement .

[0008] . Another object of the present invention is to provide a dispenser allowing for a more accurate control by the user while dosing the product without requiring particular measures. [0009] . These and other objects are achieved by providing a dispenser for stick substances as described in claim 1, and in accordance with a method as described in claim 92.

[0010] . The present invention will be better understood from the exemplary and non-limiting description below, with reference to the annexed drawings, in which:

[0011] . Fig. Ia shows an axonometric view of a dispenser according to the invention with a closing cap;

[0012] . - Fig. Ib shows an axonometric view of a dispenser according to the invention without a closing cap;

[0013] . - Fig. 2 is an isometric view of an actuating insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0014] . - Fig. 3 is an isometric view of a holding insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0015] . - Fig. 4 is an isometric view of a cup for dispenser according to the invention;

[0016] . - Fig. 5 shows a side elevational cut-away view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product extension; [0017] . - Fig. 5a shows a side elevational cut-away view of the dispenser in Fig. 5, in which the actuator for delivering the product has been pressed;

[0018] . - Fig. 5b shows a side elevational cut-away view of the dispenser in Fig. 5a, in which the actuator for delivering the product has been released; [0019] . - Fig. 6 shows a side elevational cut-away view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product retraction; [0020] . - Fig. 7 is an isometric view of actuating or holding insert for dispenser according to the invention according to a different embodiment;

[0021] . - Fig. 8 shows a side elevational cut-away view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product extension according to a different embodiment in which the insert of Fig. 7 is used; [0022] . - Fig. 9 is an isometric view of a cup for dispenser according to the invention, in accordance with a different embodiment;

[0023] . - Fig. 10 shows a side elevational cut-away view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product retraction according to still yet another embodiment in which the cup of Fig. 9 is used;

[0024] . - Fig. 11 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of holding insert for dispenser according to the invention; [0025] . - Fig. 12 is a sectional isometric view of a further embodiment of holding insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0026] . - Fig. 13 shows a side elevational cut-away view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product extension according to still yet another embodiment in which the insert of Fig. 11 and the cup of Fig. 12 are used;

[0027] . - Fig. 14 is a sectional isometric view of a further embodiment of a cup for dispenser according to the invention; [0028] . - Fig. 15a is an isometric view of a further embodiment of a holding insert or actuating insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0029] . - Fig. 15b shows an exploded view of a dispenser according to the invention;

[0030] . - Fig. 15c is an isometric view of an elastic element for dispenser according to the invention;

[0031] . - Fig. 15d is an isometric view of an elastic element for dispenser according to the invention in another embodiment; [0032] . - Fig. 16 shows a side elevational cut-away view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product extension according to a further different embodiment in which the insert of Fig. 15a and the cup of Fig. 14 are used; [0033] . - Fig. 17 is an isometric section of a container for dispenser according to the invention, in accordance with a further embodiment in which the cup in Fig. 4 is inserted;

[0034] . - Fig. 18 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of actuating insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0035] . - Fig. 19a is an isometric view of a further embodiment of holding insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0036] . - Fig. 19b is an isometric view of yet another embodiment of actuating or holding insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0037] . - Fig. 20 shows a side elevational cut-away view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product extension according to a further different embodiment in which the container in Fig. 17, the insert in Fig. 18 and the insert in Fig. 19a are used;

[0038] . - Fig. 21 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of cup for dispenser according to the invention;

[0039] . - Fig. 22 is an isometric view of yet another embodiment of cup for dispenser according to the invention;

[0040] . - Fig. 23 shows a side elevational cut-away view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product extension according to a further embodiment;

[0041] . - Fig. 24 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of actuating insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0042] . - Fig. 25 shows a side elevational sectional view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product extension according to a further embodiment;

[0043] . - Fig. 26 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of cup for dispenser according to the invention;

[0044] . - Fig. 27 is a sectional isometric view of a further embodiment of actuator for dispenser according to the invention;

[0045] . - Fig. 28 shows a side elevational sectional view of a dispenser according to the invention passing through two racks, the one of which being formed in an actuating insert and the other being formed in a holding insert arranged upon product retraction according to a further embodiment;

[0046] . - Fig. 29 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of holding insert for dispenser according to the invention;

[0047] . - Fig. 30 is a sectional isometric view of a further embodiment of container for dispenser according to the invention.

[0048] . By the term "linear ratchet gear" is meant a mechanism comprising an element having a plurality of teeth arranged in a line in a predetermined direction, and a ratchet or pawl, said teeth and said pawl having such a shape allowing the movement, when they are engaged with each other, in said predetermined direction in one way, and prevents the movement in the opposite way.

[0049] . In a possible embodiment of linear ratchet gear, said element having a plurality of teeth is a rack.

[0050] . By the term "way of a ratchet" is meant the way of movement as allowed by the linear ratchet gear involved. [0051] . By the term extension linear ratchet gear is meant a ratchet gear suitable for the extension of a product from the opening of a hollow body.

[0052] . By the term retraction linear ratchet gear is meant a ratchet gear suitable for the retraction of a product in the opening of a hollow body.

[0053] . By the term "orientation of a rack" is meant the way of movement as allowed by a linear ratchet gear in which a ratchet is engaged with said rack.

[0054] . By the term "orientation of a ratchet" is meant the way of movement as allowed by a linear ratchet gear in which a ratchet is engaged with a non-oriented rack.

[0055] . In accordance with a general embodiment, with reference to the annexed figures, a step-dispenser according to the invention 10 comprises at least one container 12, at least one elastic element 18, at least one holding insert 20, at least one actuating insert 40, at least one cup 60 and at least one actuator 70. [0056] . According to a first embodiment, said container 12 comprises a substantially tubular hollow body, having a predetermined axis x-x closed at the one end thereof and having an opening 13 at the other end thereof for a stick product 80 to be extended and retracted (Fig. Ib) therethrough. As shown in Fig. 15b, according to another embodiment, said container 12 comprises at least one notch 14 being substantially parallel to the axis x-x of said hollow body. According to a further embodiment, said container 12 comprises at least one relief 16 suitable to be coupled with said holding insert 20 such that said holding insert 20 is allowed to rotate about said axis x-x and said holding insert 20 is prevented from translating along said axis x-x. According to yet another embodiment, said container 12 can advantageously comprise sealing coupling means 15 between said container and a closing cap 11. According to another different embodiment, said container 12 comprises a relief 116 suitable to be coupled with said actuator 70 or said actuating insert 40, which allows said actuator 70 or said actuating insert 40 to rotate about said axis x-x and to translate along said axis x-x to a predetermined extent (Fig. 17) . [0057] . According to a first embodiment, said elastic element 18 comprises a leaf spring suitable to be accommodated within said container 12. According to another embodiment, said leaf spring comprises two substantially flat tabs 19 (Fig. 15c) . According to a further embodiment, said elastic element 18 comprises a helical spring 181 suitable to be accommodated within said container 12. According to a different embodiment, said elastic element 18 comprises a flat element 17 comprising at least one tab 19 (Fig. 15d) . According to a further embodiment, said elastic element comprises a generally cylindrical solid, having a cross-section suitable for being accommodated within said container 12 and cooperating with said holding insert and said actuating insert, for example made of elastic polymer.

[0058] . According to a first embodiment, said holding insert 20, which is substantially concentric to said container 12, comprises a cylindrical portion 21 ending with a fork 22 comprising two arms 23 and 24 having two racks 25 and 26 placed opposite to each other in opposite orientations being formed on the inner surface thereof (Fig. 2 and 3). According to a different embodiment, said holding insert 20, which is substantially concentric to said container 12, comprises a cylindrical portion 21 ending with a fork 22 comprising two arms 23 and 24 with a non-oriented rack 25 being formed on the inner surface thereof (Fig. 7) . According to another embodiment, each of said arms 23 and 24 comprises free ends 27 on the side opposite said cylindrical portion 21. According to a further embodiment, said free ends 27 comprise projections 28. According to another different embodiment, said cylindrical portion comprises two cavities 29 that are suitable to accommodate said free ends 27. According to another embodiment, said holding insert 20 comprises means for coupling to said container 12 such that rotation is allowed about said axis x-x and translation is prevented along said axis x-x, such as by way of non-limiting example, a groove 30. According to a further embodiment, said arms 23 and 24 comprise at least one partition wall 39 between said racks 25 and 26. [0059] . According to a first embodiment, said actuating insert 40, which is substantially concentric to said container 12, comprises a cylindrical portion 41 ending with a fork 42 comprising two arms 43 and 44 having two racks 45 and 46 formed on the inner surface thereof, which are placed opposite to each other in opposite orientations. According to a different embodiment, said actuating insert 40, which is substantially concentric to said container 12, comprises a cylindrical portion 41 that ends with a fork 42 comprising two arms 43 and 44 with a non-oriented rack 45 being formed on the inner surface thereof. According to another embodiment, each of said arms 43 and 44 comprises free ends 47 on the opposite side to said cylindrical portion 41. According to a further embodiment, said free ends 47 comprise projections 48. According to another different embodiment, said cylindrical portion comprises two cavities 49 suitable to accommodate said free ends 47. According to another embodiment, said actuating insert 40 comprises means for interference-coupling with said actuator 70, such as - by way of non-limiting example - a groove 50, or a relief. According to a further embodiment, said arms 43 and 44 comprise at least one partition wall 59 between said racks 45 and 46.

[0060] . In accordance with several embodiments of dispenser according to the invention, said holding insert 20 and said actuating insert 40 are equal pieces, and can be advantageously fabricated - by way of non-limiting example - from thermoplastic resins using the same mould.

[0061]. According to a first embodiment, said cup 60, which is substantially concentric to said container 12, comprises a substantially tubular portion 61 suitable to receive a product in stick form, and a cylindrical portion 63 with a plurality of at least four flexible small arms 64 being formed in the wall thereof,, which comprise pawls 65, 66, 67 and 68 being arranged circumferentially alternated along said wall (Fig. 4) . According to a further embodiment, at least several of said pawls are oriented. According to a different embodiment, at least several of said pawls are not oriented. According to a further embodiment, at least several of said pawls are arranged on the inner side of said small arms 64. According to a different embodiment, at least several of said pawls are arranged on the outer side of said small arms 64. According to a further embodiment, said tubular portion 61 is at least partially defined on the bottom thereof by a crosswise wall 62

(Fig. 12, 14 and 15b) . According to a still yet another embodiment, said cup 60 comprises means for coupling to said container 12 such that the translation is allowed along said axis x-x and the rotation is prevented about said axis x-x, such as by way of non-limiting example, at least one projecting tongue 69. According to another embodiment, with reference to Fig. 21, said tubular portion 61 and said cylindrical portion 63 have an oval section and said small arms 64 are formed in the ray-shaped parts of said cylindrical portion 63. According to still yet another embodiment, with reference to Fig. 22, said tubular portion 61 and said cylindrical portion 63 have an oval section and said small arms 64 are formed in the rectilinear parts of said cylindrical portion 63. According to another embodiment, said pawls are directly formed either on the inner or outer, wall of said cylindrical portion, without using small arms.

[0062] . According to a first embodiment, said actuator 70, which is substantially concentric to said container 12 comprises a generally tubular body having a shape suitable for being manipulated, and means for interference-coupling with said actuating insert 40. According to several embodiments, after said actuator 70 has been coupled with said actuating insert 40 and properly assembled in a step-dispenser according to the invention, said actuator 70 is proximate to said extension opening 13, thereby allowing for a particular comfort of use. According to another embodiment of said actuator 70, said coupling means comprise at least one relief 71, or at least one notch. According to a further embodiment, said actuator 70 can be formed as one piece with said actuating insert 40, such as shown in Fig. 20 by way of non-limiting example .

[0063] . As regards the operation of a step-dispenser according to the invention, with reference to Fig. 5, 5a, 5b and 6, the dispenser will be assumed to be in the position arranged upon extension, with the cup 60 and accordingly the product stick 80 in the lowered position, as shown in Fig. 5. When the actuator 70 is acted upon by being axially pressed in a way of being moved towards the container 12, it will act on the actuating insert 40 to which it is made integral by the coupling between the relief 71 and notch 50. Said actuating insert 40 will be translated relative to said container 12, thereby pressing the spring 18. The translational movement of the cup 60 is prevented in this case, as the pawl 67 is counteracted by the tooth 31 of the rack 25 belonging to the holding insert 20. The pawl 68 is, on the other hand, oriented such as to be allowed to skip that tooth 51 in the rack 46 which belongs to the actuating insert 40; said tooth 51, at the end of the travel, will be thus below said pawl 68, such as shown in Fig. 5a. At this stage, pressure will be released from the actuator 70, and the spring 18 will axially bias said actuating insert 40 in an extension way from said container 12. In this case, the pawl 67 may skip the tooth 32, while the tooth 51 will force the pawl 68. Said cup 60 will thus advance by a pitch corresponding to the travel of said actuating insert, thus moving to the position illustrated for example in Fig. 5b. At this stage, the dispenser is arranged to be further advanced. [0064] . When the cycle is repeated, the pawl 68 will skip the tooth 52, whereas the pawl 67 will be held by the tooth 32. At the end of the travel, said tooth 52 will be below the pawl 68. When pressure is released, said tooth 52 will force the cup 60 to a new position by one pitch-advance movement, and so on.

[0065] . By rotating the actuator 70 and thus the actuating insert 40, which is integral thereto, relative to the container 12 by a predetermined angle, which can be changed according to the embodiment, both the actuating insert 40 and the holding insert 20 rotate, because they are connected to each other via the coupling between the free ends 27 and 47 and the cavities 49 and 29, respectively, which does not allow any relative rotation between the inserts. The cup 60, on the other end, cannot rotate relative to said container 12, as this rotation is prevented by the coupling between the tabs 69 and notches 14. A relative rotation will be thus obtained between the inserts 20 and 40 and the cup 60 that will disconnect the racks 25 and 46 and connect the racks 26 and 45, such as illustrated in Fig. 6, regardless of the position of the cup 60 along the container 12, which to this purpose, in Fig. 6 has been placed substantially halfway through the extension travel of the product 80. Conveniently, this rotation is carried out along a predetermined angular travel, which is obtained by mechanical end- of-strokes (for example, embodied by the tabs 69 against which the arms of forks 22 and 42 are rested, or the partition walls 39 and 59 against which the pawls 65, 66, 67 and 68 are abutted) . The operation of retracting the product 80 is, at this stage, similar to extension.

[0066] . When the actuator 70 is acted upon by being axially pressed in a way of being moved towards the container 12, it will act on the actuating insert 40 with which it is made integral by the coupling between the relief 71 and the groove 50. Said actuating insert 40 will be translated relative to said container 12, thus pressing the spring 18. In this case, the pawl 66 can skip the tooth 34, whereas the tooth 53 will force the pawl 65. Said cup 600 will be thus advanced by a pitch corresponding to the travel of said actuating insert. After the pawl 66 has been advanced, it will become engaged with the tooth 34. At this stage, by releasing pressure from the actuator 70, the spring 18 will axially bias said actuating insert 40 in an extension way from said container 12. The translational movement of the cup 60 is, in this case, prevented because the pawl 60 is counter-acted by the tooth 34 of the rack 26 belonging to the holding insert 20. The pawl 65, on the other hand, is oriented such as to be capable of skip the tooth 54 of the rack 45 belonging to the actuating insert 40, which, at the end of the stroke, will be above said pawl 68, i.e. in the position taken by the tooth 53 prior to applying the pressure to the actuator 70. At this stage, the dispenser is arranged for another advance movement for retracting the product 80. When the cycle is repeated, the tooth 54 will force the pawl 65, whereas the pawl 66 will skip the tooth 33. At the end of the travel, said tooth 33 will be above the pawl 66. When pressure is released, said tooth 33 will prevent the cup 60 from translating, whereas the pawl 65 will skip another tooth, and so on.

[0067] . The operation of a step-dispenser as described above can be also applied to other embodiments, such as - by way of a non- limiting example - those providing actuating or holding inserts that comprise non-oriented racks, or an elastic element 18 comprising a helical spring, or a cup comprising non-oriented pawls (Fig. 7, 8, 9 and 10) .

[0068] . With reference to Fig. 11, in accordance with other embodiments, a step-dispenser according to the invention comprises a holding insert 120, that is substantially concentric to said container 12, comprising a cylindrical portion 121 from which there departs a stem 122 comprising two portions 123 and 124 having two racks 125 and 126 placed opposite to each other in an opposite way being formed on the outer surface thereof. According to another embodiment, said holding insert 120 substantially concentric to said container 12 comprises a cylindrical portion 121 from which there concentrically departs a stem 122 with at least one non-oriented rack 125 being formed on the outer surface thereof. With reference to Fig. 15a, according to another embodiment, said holding insert 120 substantially concentric to said container 12 comprises a cylindrical portion 121 from which there concentrically departs a stem 122 comprising two portions 123 and 124 with two non-oriented racks 125 and 126 being formed on the outer surface thereof. According to yet another embodiment, said cylindrical portion 121 comprises cavities 129 suitable to accommodate free ends 47 of an actuating insert 40 such as described above. According to still yet another embodiment, said holding device 120 comprises means for coupling to said container 12 such that the rotation is allowed about said axis x-x and the translation is prevented along said axis x-x, such as by way of a non-limiting example, a groove 130, or a relief. According to a further embodiment, said portions 123 and 124 comprise at least one partition wall 139 between said racks 125 and 126.

[0069] . According to various embodiments, a step-dispenser according to the invention comprises at least one container 12, at least one elastic element 18, at least one actuating insert 40, at least one cup 60 and at least one actuator 70 such as those described above, and at least one holding insert 120 as that described above.

[0070] . According to different embodiments, which will be not illustrated therein for brevity, a step-dispenser according to the invention comprises at least one container 12, at least one elastic element .18, at least one holding insert 20, at least one cup 60 and at least one actuator 70 such as those described above, and at least one actuating insert 40 equal to the holding insert 120 described above. In practice, the actuating and holding inserts described herein can be employed in different combinations, using cups 60 having suitable embodiments. Merely by way of a non-limiting example, in Fig. 13 there is illustrated a step-dispenser according to the invention comprising a holding insert 120 such as that illustrated in Fig. 11 and a cup 60 such as that illustrated in Fig. 12, comprising at least one non-oriented inner pawl. Again, by way of a non-limiting example, in Fig. 16 there is illustrated a step- dispenser according to the invention comprising a holding insert 120 such as that illustrated in Fig. 15a and a cup 60 such as that illustrated in Fig. 14, comprising at least one oriented inner pawl. [0071] . As regards the operation of a step-dispenser according to the invention, in the embodiments described above with reference to Fig. 13 and 16, the dispenser will be assumed to be in the position arranged upon extension, with the cup 60 and accordingly the product stick 80 in the lowered position, as shown in Fig. 13. When the actuator 70 is acted upon by being axially pressed in a way of being moved towards the container 12, it will act on the actuating insert 40 to which it is made integral by the coupling between the relief 71 and notch 50. Said actuating insert 40 will be translated relative to said container 12, thereby pressing the spring 18. The translational movement of the cup 60 is prevented in this case, as the pawl 67 is counter-acted by the tooth 131 of the rack 125 belonging to the holding insert 120. The pawl 68 is, on the other hand, oriented such as to be allowed to skip that tooth 51 in the rack 46 which belongs to the actuating insert 40; said tooth 51, at the end of the travel, will be thus below said pawl 68. [0072]. When the pressure is released from the actuator 70, the spring 18 will axially bias said actuating insert 40 in a way of being extended from said container 12. In this case, the pawl 67 may skip the tooth 132, while the tooth 51 will force the pawl 68. Said cup 60 will thus advance by a pitch corresponding to the travel of said actuating insert. At this stage, the dispenser is arranged for being further advanced. When the cycle is repeated, the pawl 52 will skip the tooth 68, whereas the pawl 67 will be held by the tooth 132. At the end of the travel, said tooth 52 will be below the pawl 68. When pressure is released, said tooth 52 will force the cup 60 to a new position by one pitch-advance movement, and so on. [0073] . By rotating the actuator 70 and thus the actuating insert 40, which is integral thereto, relative to the container 12 by a predetermined angle, which can change according to the embodiment, both the actuating insert 40 and the holding insert 120 are rotated, because they are connected to each other via the coupling between the free ends 47 and the cavities 129, which does not allow any relative rotation between the inserts. On the other hand, the cup cannot rotate relative to said container, as this rotation is prevented by the coupling between the tabs 69 and notches 14. A relative rotation will be thus obtained between the inserts 120 and 40 and the cup 60 that will disconnect the racks 125 and 46 and connect the racks 126 and 45. Conveniently, this rotation is carried out along a predetermined angular travel, which is obtained by mechanical end-of-strokes (for example, embodied by the tabs 69 against which the arms of forks 42 are rested, or the partition walls 139 and 59 against which the pawls 65, 66, 67 and 68 are abutted) . The operation of retracting the product 80 is at this stage similar to extension, and will be thus omitted for brevity. [0074] . With reference to Fig. 17, 18, 19a and 20, according to a different embodiment, a step-dispenser according to the invention comprises at least one substantially tubular container 112 having a predetermined axis z-z comprising an opening 113 for extending and retracting a stick product 80 at the one end thereof, and an opening 117 for introducing an actuating insert 240 or holding insert 220 at the other end thereof; at least one elastic element 18; at least one holding insert 220, for which various embodiments can be deduced from the description of holding insert 20 provided above, by analogy between Fig. 19a and 3, by replacing numerals 20 to 39 with numerals 220 to 239, respectively; at least one actuating insert 240, for which various embodiments can be derived by the description of actuating insert 40 provided above, by analogy between Fig. 18 and 2, by replacing the numerals 40 to 59 with the numerals 240 to 249, respectively; at least one cup 60, and at least one actuator 70. [0075] . Said actuator 70, according to an embodiment, is formed as a separate piece relative to said actuating insert 240. According to another embodiment, as shown in Fig. 18 and 20, said actuator 70 can be formed as one piece with said actuating insert 240. In accordance with a different embodiment, said container 112 comprises at least one relief 116 suitable for coupling with said actuator 70 or said actuating insert 240 which allows said actuator 70 or said actuating insert 240 to rotate about said axis z-z. According to a further embodiment, said container 112 comprises means 118 suitable to axially lock this holding insert 220.

[0076] . As regards the operation of a step-dispenser according to the invention, in the embodiments described above, the dispenser will be assumed to be in the position arranged for extension, with the cup 60 and thus stick of product 80 being in the lowered position, such as shown in Fig. 20. When the actuator 70 is acted upon by being axially pressed in a way of being moved towards the container 112, it will act on the actuating insert 240, with which it is integral. Said actuating insert 240 will translate relative to said container 112, by pressing the spring 18. In this case, the pawl 66 will be capable of skip the tooth 234, whereas the tooth 253 will force the pawl 65. Said cup 60 will be thus advanced by a pitch corresponding to the travel of said actuating insert. After the pawl 66 has advanced, it will become engaged with tooth 234. [0077] . When pressure to the actuator 70 is released, the spring 18 will axially bias said actuating insert 40 in a way of moving the latter away from said container 12. In this case, the pawl 65 will be capable of skipping the tooth 254, whereas the tooth 234 will hold the pawl 66.

[0078] . At this stage, the dispenser is arranged for being further advanced. When the cycle is repeated, the tooth 254 will force the pawl 65, whereas the pawl 66 will skip the tooth 233. At the end of the travel, said tooth 233 will be below the pawl 66. When pressure is released, said tooth 233 will hold the cup 60 in the new position while the actuating insert 240 will move back to the reloading position, the tooth 255 being capable of skip the pawl 65, and so on.

[0079] . By rotating the actuator 70 and thus the actuating insert 40, which is integral thereto, relative to the container 112 by a predetermined angle, which changes according to the embodiment, both the actuating ' insert 240 and the holding insert 220 are rotated, because they are connected to each other via the coupling between the free ends 227 and 247 and the cavities 249 and 229, which does not allow any relative rotation between the inserts. On the other hand, the cup 60 cannot rotate relative to said container 112, as this rotation is prevented by the coupling between the tabs 69 and notches 114. A relative rotation will be thus obtained between the inserts 220 and 240 and the cup 60 that will disconnect the racks 225 and 246 and connect the racks 226 and 245. Conveniently, this rotation is carried out along a predetermined angular travel, which is obtained by mechanical end-of-strokes (for example, embodied by the tabs 69 against which the arms of forks 242 are rested) . The operation of retracting the product 80 is at this stage similar to extension, and will be thus omitted for brevity.

[0080] . With reference to Fig. 24 to 30, according to a different embodiment, a step-dispenser according to the invention comprises at least one substantially tubular container 412, having a predetermined axis w-w comprising an opening 413 for extending and retracting a stick product 80 at the one end thereof, and an opening 417 for introducing various elements making up the advance mechanism, such as an actuating insert 440, a holding insert 420 and a cup 460; at least one elastic element 18; at least one holding insert 420; at least one actuating insert 440; at least one cup 460, and at least one actuator 470.

[0081] . As shown in Fig. 30, according to at least another embodiment, said container 412 comprises at least one notch 414 substantially parallel to said axis w-w. According to a further embodiment, said container 412 comprises at least one relief 416 suitable for coupling with said actuator 470 such as to allow said actuator 470 to rotate about said axis w-w and said actuator 470 to translate along said axis w-w to a predetermined extent. According to yet another embodiment, said container 412 can advantageously comprise sealing coupling means between said container and a closing cap. According to still yet another embodiment, said container 412 comprises means suitable to prevent said holding insert 420 and/or said actuating insert 440 from translating along said axis w-w in at least one way, such as by way of a non-limiting example, a shoulder 418. According to an embodiment, said container 412 has means suitable for co-operating with said actuator 470 such as to stabilize the rotational relative position of said actuator 470 relative to said container 412 in several predetermined positions, such as by way of a non-limiting example, recesses 408. [0082] . According to a first embodiment, said holding insert 420, which is substantially concentric to said container 412, comprises a cylindrical portion 421 ending with at least one cylindrical sector 423 having two racks 425 and 426 placed opposite to each other in opposite orientations being formed on the inner surface thereof (Fig. 29) . According to another embodiment, said cylindrical sector 423 comprises a free end 427 on the opposite side to said cylindrical portion 421. According to a further embodiment, said free end 427 comprises at least one projecting portion 435 suitable to be coupled with said elastic element 18. According to yet another embodiment, said cylindrical portion comprises at least one cavity 429. According to another embodiment, said holding insert 420 comprises means for coupling with said container 412 such that rotation is allowed about said axis w-w and translation is prevented along said axis w-w. According to a further embodiment, said cylindrical sector 423 comprises at least one partition wall 439 between said racks 425 and 426. According to a further embodiment, said partition' wall 439 results to be projecting relative to the teeth of said racks 425 and 426, such that any contact between said holding insert 420 and said product 480 will occur between said product and said partition wall 439, and not between said product and said teeth.

[0083]. According to a first embodiment, said holding insert 440, which is substantially concentric to said container 412, comprises a cylindrical portion 441 ending with a cylindrical sector 443 having two racks 445 and 446 formed on the inner surface thereof, which are placed opposite to each other in opposite orientations. According to another embodiment, said cylindrical sector 443 comprises at least one free end 447 on the opposite side to said cylindrical portion 441. According to still yet another embodiment, said cylindrical portion comprises at least one cavity 449. According to another embodiment, said actuating insert 440 comprises means for interference-coupling with said actuator 470, such as by way of non- limiting example, a groove, relief or tabs 458. According to a further embodiment, said cylindrical sector 443 comprises at least one partition wall 459 between said racks 445 and 446. According to a further embodiment, said partition wall 459 results to be projecting relative to the teeth of said racks 445 and 446, such that, any contact between said holding insert 440 and said product 480 will occur between said product and said partition wall 459, and not between said product and said teeth.

[0084] . In accordance with several embodiments of dispenser according to the invention, said holding insert 420 and said actuating insert 440 are equal pieces, and can be advantageously fabricated - by way of non-limiting example - from thermoplastic resins using the same mould.

[0085] . According to a first embodiment, said cup 460, which is substantially concentric to said container 412, comprises a substantially tubular portion 461 suitable to receive a stick product 480 with a plurality of at least four flexible small arms 464 being formed in the wall thereof, which comprise pawls 465, 466, 467 and 468 being arranged circumferentially alternated along said wall (Fig. 26) . According to a further embodiment, at least severai of said pawl are oriented. According to a different embodiment, at least several of said pawls are not oriented. According to a further embodiment, at least several of said pawls are arranged on the inner side of said small arms 464. According to a different embodiment, at least several of said pawls are arranged on the outer side of said small arms 464. According to a further embodiment, said tubular portion 461 is at least partially defined on the bottom thereof by a crosswise wall. According to still yet another embodiment, said cup 460 comprises means for coupling with said container 412 such that translation is allowed along said axis w-w and rotation is prevented about said axis w-w, such as by way of a non-limiting example, a projecting tab 469.

[0086] . According to a first embodiment, said actuator 470, which is substantially concentric with said container 412 comprises a generally tubular body, and means for interference-coupling with said actuating insert 440. According to several embodiments, after said actuator 470 has been coupled with said actuating insert 440 and properly assembled in a step-dispenser according to the invention, said actuator 70 is proximate to said opening 417, thereby allowing for a particular comfort of use. According to another embodiment of said actuator 470, said means for coupling comprise at least one relief, or at least one notch 471. According to a different embodiment, said actuator 470 has means suitable for co-operating with said container 412 such that said actuator 470 is allowed to rotate about said axis w-w and said actuator 470 is allowed to translate along said axis w-w to a predetermined extent, such as by way of a non-limiting example, a projection 475 coupled with said relief 416. According to an embodiment, said actuator 470 has means suitable for co-operating with said container 412 such as to stabilize the rotational relative position of said actuator 470 relative to said container 412 in several predetermined positions, such as by way of a non-limiting example, relieves 476 co-operating with said recesses 408.

[0087] . Said" actuator 470, according to an embodiment, is formed as a separate piece relative to said actuating insert 440, or relative to said holding insert 420. According to another embodiment, said actuator 470 can be formed as one piece with said actuating insert 440 or said holding insert 420.

[0088] . As regards the operation of a step-dispenser according to the invention, in the embodiments described above, with reference to Fig. 25, the dispenser is assumed to be in the position arranged for extension. When the actuator 470 is acted upon by being axially pressed in a way of being moved towards the container 412, it will act on the actuating insert 440 with which it is integral. Said actuating insert 440 will translate relative to said container 412, thus pressing the spring 18. In this case, the pawl 467 will be capable of skip the tooth 431, whereas the tooth 451 will force the pawl 468. Said cup 460 will be thus advanced by a pitch corresponding to the travel of said actuating insert. After the pawl 467 has advanced, it will become engaged with tooth 431. [0089] . When pressure is removed from the actuator 470, the spring 18 will axially bias said actuating insert 40 in a way of moving the latter away from said container 412. In this case, the pawl 468 will be capable of skipping the tooth 452, whereas the tooth 431 will hold the pawl 467.

[0090] . At this stage, the dispenser is arranged for further advancement. When the cycle is repeated, the tooth 452 will force the pawl 468, while the pawl 467 will skip the tooth 432. At the end of the travel, said tooth 432 will be below the pawl 467. When pressure is released, said tooth 432 will hold the cup 60 in the new position whereas the actuating insert 440 will move back to the reloading position, the tooth 453 being capable of skipping the pawl 468, and so on.

[0091] . By rotating the actuator 470 and thus the actuating insert 440, which is integral thereto, relative to the container 412 by a predetermined angle, which changes according to the embodiment, both the actuating insert 440 and the holding insert 420 are rotated, because they are connected to each other via the coupling between the free ends 427 and 447 and the cavities 449 and 429, which does not allow any relative rotation between the inserts. On the other hand, the cup 460 cannot rotate relative to said container 412, as this rotation is prevented by the coupling between the tabs 469 and notches 414. A relative rotation will be thus obtained between the inserts 420 and 440 and the cup 460 that will disconnect the racks 425 and 446 and connect the racks 426 and 445. Conveniently, this rotation is carried out along a predetermined angular travel, which is obtained by mechanical end-of-strokes (for example, embodied by the tabs 469) against which the arms of forks 423 and 443 are rested. The operation of retracting the product 480 is at this stage similar to extension, such as shown in Fig. 28.

[0092] . When the actuator 470 is acted upon by being axially pressed in a way of being moved towards the container 412, it will act on the actuating insert 440 with which it is integral. Said actuating insert 440, will translate relative to said container 412, thus compressing the spring 18. In this case, the pawl 465 will be capable of skipping the tooth 454, while the tooth 433 will hold the pawl 466. At the end of the travel, the pawl 465 will thus become engaged with the tooth 454. At this stage, when pressure is removed from the actuator 470, the spring 18 will axially bias said actuating insert 440 in a way of moving the latter away from said holding insert 420. Said actuator 440 will thus drag said cup 460, as this tooth 454 is engaged with said pawl 465. On the other hand, the pawl 466 will be capable of skipping the tooth 434 and thus said cup 460 will advance by a pitch in a way of retraction within said container 412. At this stage, the dispenser is ready for another advancement for retracting the product 480.

[0093] . Other embodiments are possible with various combinations of the constructive typologies described above. Particularly, with reference to Fig. 23, for several product types, an embodiment of step-dispenser may be advantageous which comprises: a container 312, comprising a substantially tubular hollow body having a predetermined axis y—y, comprising an opening 313 for a stick product 80 to be extended and retracted therethrough at the one end, and an opening 317 for a holding insert 320 to be introduced therethrough at the other end; at least one elastic element 18; at least one holding insert 320, for which various embodiments can be deduced from the description of holding insert 20 provided above; at least one ring-nut 370; at least one actuating insert 240, for which various embodiments can be deduced by the description of actuating insert 40 provided above; at least one cup 60, and at least one actuator 70. In accordance with a different embodiment, said container 312 comprises means suitable for coupling with said holding insert- 320 which allows said holding insert 320 to rotate about said axis y—y, such as by way of a non-limiting example, a relief 316. In accordance with a further embodiment, said ring-nut 370 comprises means for being firmly coupled with said holding insert 320. In accordance with still yet another embodiment, said ring-nut 370 is formed as one piece with said holding insert 320. [0094] . In accordance with another embodiment, said container 312 comprises means suitable for coupling with said actuator 70 and said actuating insert 340, which allow this actuating insert 320 and said actuator 70 to translate along said axis y-y to a predetermined extent .

[0095] . For the above-mentioned embodiments, the delivery and retraction of said product 80 occurs when the actuator 70 is axially acted upon relative to said container 312; the selection of the advance way of said product 80 is carried out by rotating said ring- nut 370 relative to said container 312. The embodiments described above may prove advantageous in order to, by way of a non-limiting example, delivery stick products having non-circular sections. [0096] . Those illustrated herein are only some of possible embodiments. Particularly, a dispenser according to the invention may have any section, such as by way of non-limiting example, oval, ellipsoidal, square, etc. The construction and operation criteria may be further changed while still being within the scope of the invention. By way of non-limiting example, a step-dispenser according to the invention may have oval section and may comprise a cup 60 such as that illustrated in Pig. 22, a holding insert 20 such as that illustrated in Fig. 19b, an actuating insert 40 equal to the holding insert 20 illustrated in Fig. 19b. In this case, by way of a non-limiting example, as the pawls 65, 66, 67 and 68 are on the rectilinear wall of the cylindrical portion 63 belonging to the cup 60, it may be convenient to provide that the selection between extension way and retraction way of the product 80 is carried out by means of a crosswise translational movement of an actuator 70 integral to said actuating insert 40, such that the small arms 23, 24, 43 and 44 are displaced along said wall and the racks formed in said small arms are fitted with the suitable pawls.

[0097] . A step-dispenser according to the invention can further comprise a closing cap 11, which is coupled with said container 12 by means of, by way of a non-limiting example, a snap or screw system (Fig. Ia) . According to another embodiment, said container 12 and cap 11 comprise means making a fluid-tight coupling 6 000727

18 therebetween. According to a further embodiment, said cap 11 is connected to said container 12 with a hinge. According to still yet another embodiment, said cap 11 is formed of a thermoplastic material as one piece with said container 12, said hinge being of a membrane type.

[0098] . From the description provided herein, the characteristics of the step-dispenser will be appreciated along with the advantages thereof, among which:

[0099] . - the possibility of being used in conditions in which no particular care needs to be taken;

[00100] . - the possibility of delivering the product in an accurate and reliable manner using only one hand;

[00101] . - the possibility of using the same actuator for obtaining the extension and retraction of the product in a container and the selection of the advance way;

[00102] . - the possibility of extending and retracting a product from a container with a natural movement of the hand;

[00103] . - the possibility of being made of thermoplastic resins by means of an injection moulding technique with a few simple components;

[00104] . - even and reliable delivery;

[00105] . - simple and intuitive use;

[00106] . - easy construction and assembly.

[00107] . The step-dispenser thus conceived can be subjected to a number of modifications and variants, all of which being contemplated within the invention; all details can be further replaced with technically equivalent elements. In practice, the materials used, the assembly technologies, as well as the shapes and sizes may be any according to the technical requirements.

[00108] . The scope of protection of the invention is thus defined by the annexed claims.

*** * ***

Claims

1. A dispenser for a stick product comprising:

- a hollow body, ending at the one end thereof with an opening for the product to be extended therethrough;

- moving means suitable for transmitting to said product a movement of extension from said opening and selectively of retraction within said opening according to a predetermined direction in order to allow using said product;

- actuating means suitable to impart to said moving means a reversible intermittent movement in an extension and selectively retraction way relative to said opening in order to bring said moving means to predetermined positions;

- holding means suitable to fix said moving means in said predetermined positions relative to said opening by means of geometrical coupling between said holding means and said moving means, such as to prevent said moving means from moving backwards relative to the movement imparted to them by said actuating means;

- control means suitable to activate said actuating means by means of reciprocating movement between two predetermined positions in a substantially parallel direction to the direction of extension and retraction of said product .

2. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein said actuating means allow performing at least two advance movements in the same way by repeating said reciprocating movement of said control means.

3. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, comprising selection means suitable for arranging said movement actuating means in a way of extension and retraction, respectively, of said product relative to said opening.

4. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein a gap is comprised between the inner wall of said hollow body and the outer wall of said product.

5. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said moving means are accommodated within said gap.

6. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said holding means are accommodated within said gap.

7. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said moving means are accommodated within said gap.

8. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said actuating means comprise at least one pair of linear ratchet gears, of which the one is for extension and the other for retraction.

9. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said holding means comprise at least one pair of linear ratchet gears, of which the one is for extension and the other for retraction.

10. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said actuating means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings allowing said actuating means to perform a translational reciprocating movement along an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product between two predetermined positions .

11. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said actuating means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings allowing said actuating means to perform a rotational reciprocating movement about an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product .

12. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said actuating means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings allowing said actuating means to perform a rotational reciprocating movement about an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product to a predetermined angular extent .

13. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said holding means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings allowing said holding means to perform a translational movement along an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product in at least one way.

14. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said holding means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings allowing said holding means to move in a rotational reciprocating movement about an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product .

15. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said holding means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings allowing said holding means to move in a rotational reciprocating movement about an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product to a predetermined angular extent .

16. The ^'dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said moving means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings allowing said moving means to move in a translational reciprocating movement along an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product .

17. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said moving means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings preventing said moving means from performing a rotational reciprocating movement about an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product .

18. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said moving means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings preventing said moving means from performing a rotational movement about an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product except for a predeterminable tolerance.

19. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said moving means are operatively connected to said hollow body by means of couplings preventing said moving means from performing a rotational movement about an axis substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction of said product except for a tolerance due to mechanical clearances .

20. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said actuating means comprise at least one pair of linear ratchet gears, of which the one is for extension and the other for retraction having racks formed on at least one actuating component that is integral with said control means.

21. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said ratchet gears comprise ratchets that are integral with said moving means, which are suitably arranged relative to said actuating means and said holding means, such that only ratchet gears having concordant directions can be simultaneously operated.

22. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said control means allow activating said actuating means by means of said translational reciprocating movement along said axis and selecting said direction of extension or retraction by means of said rotational reciprocating movement about said axis.

23. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said ratchet gears comprise at least four ratchets that are integral with said moving means, which are suitably arranged such that at least two ratchets are simultaneously fitted, the one of which with a rack of said actuating means and the other with a rack of said holding means, said racks belonging to ratchet gears having a concordant way.

24. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said hollow body ends at the one end with an opening and is closed at the other end by a bottom plate .

25. The "dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said hollow body is defined laterally and at the one end thereof with a closed wall, and ends at the other end thereof with an opening.

26. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one groove is formed on the inner surface of said hollow body, which is substantially parallel to said direction of extension and retraction.

27. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said moving means comprise a cup, comprising a substantially tubular portion suitable to receive a stick product.

28. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said moving means comprise a cup, comprising a cylindrical portion having a plurality of flexible small arms formed in the outer wall thereof, which carry pawls and are arranged circumferentialIy alternated, and at least one projecting tab.

29. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said actuating means comprise a tubular actuating insert, which is substantially concentric to said hollow body.

30. The dispenser according to claim 29, wherein said tubular actuating insert is substantially concentric to said hollow body.

31. The dispenser according to claim 29, wherein said tubular actuating insert comprises at least one cylindrical portion ending with at least one cylindrical sector.

32. The dispenser according to claim 29, wherein said tubular actuating insert comprises at least one cylindrical portion ending with at least two cylindrical sectors.

33. The dispenser according to claim 31, wherein at least one rack is formed on the inner surface of said cylindrical sector.

34. The dispenser according to claim 31, wherein at least two racks are formed on the inner surface of said cylindrical sector.

35. The dispenser according to claim 34, wherein said racks are placed opposite to each other.

36. The dispenser according to claim 34, wherein said racks are separated by a partition wall.

37. The dispenser according to claim 34, wherein said racks comprise teeth oriented in alternating directions .

38. The dispenser according to claim 34, wherein said racks comprise non-oriented teeth.

39. The dispenser according to claim 31, wherein said cylindrical sector comprises a free end on the opposite side to said cylindrical portion.

40. The dispenser according to claim 39, wherein at least one of said free ends comprises at least one projection.

41. The dispenser according to claim 31, wherein said cylindrical portion comprises at least one cavity.

42. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said holding means comprise a tubular holding insert, which is substantially concentric to said hollow body.

43. The dispenser according to claim 42, wherein said tubular holding insert is substantially concentric to said hollow body.

44. The dispenser according to claim 42, wherein said tubular holding insert comprises one cylindrical portion ending with at least one cylindrical sector.

45. The dispenser according to claim 42, wherein said tubular holding insert comprises at least one cylindrical portion ending with two cylindrical sectors.

46. The dispenser according to claim 44, wherein at least one rack is formed on the inner surface of said cylindrical sector.

47. The dispenser according to claim 44, wherein at least two racks are formed on the inner surface of said cylindrical sector.

48. The dispenser according to claim 47, wherein said racks are placed opposite to each other.

49. The dispenser according to claim 47, wherein said racks are separated by a partition wall.

50. The dispenser according to claim 47, wherein said racks comprise teeth oriented in alternating directions.

51. The dispenser according to claim 47, wherein said racks comprise non-oriented teeth.

52. The dispenser according to claim 44, wherein at least one of said arms comprises free ends on the opposite side to said cylindrical portion.

53. The dispenser according to claim 52, wherein at least one of said free ends comprises at least one projection.

54. The dispenser according to claim 44 , wherein said cylindrical portion comprises at least one cavity.

55. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said tubular actuating insert and said tubular holding insert are equal.

56. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said tubular holding insert and said tubular actuating insert are concentrically aligned.

57. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said tubular holding insert and said tubular actuating insert are aligned such that said cylindrical portions remain opposite to each other.

58. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said tubular holding insert and said tubular actuating insert are aligned such that said cylindrical sectors are alternatively interpenetrating.

59. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said tubular holding insert and said tubular actuating insert are aligned such that said free ends of said arms are accommodated within said cavities.

60. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said tubular holding insert and said tubular actuating insert are aligned such that at least four racks result, which are substantially aligned with said hollow body, arranged circumferentially alternated along the inner wall of said hollow body.

61. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said actuating means comprise an actuating stem.

62. The dispenser according to claim 61, wherein said actuating stem is substantially concentric to said hollow body.

63. The dispenser according to claim 61, wherein said actuating stem comprises a cylindrical portion being longitudinally divided in two sectors.

64. The dispenser according to claim 63, wherein at least one rack is formed on the outer surface of at least one of said sectors .

65. The dispenser according to claim 63, wherein at least two racks are formed on the outer surface of at least one of said sectors .

66. The dispenser according to claim 65, wherein said racks are separated by at least one partition wall.

67. The dispenser according to claim 65, wherein said racks comprise non-oriented teeth.

68. The dispenser according to claim 65, wherein said racks comprise teeth arranged in alternating directions.

69. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said holding means comprise a holding stem.

70. The dispenser according to claim 69, wherein said actuating stem is substantially concentric to said hollow body.

71. The dispenser according to claim 69, wherein said holding stem comprises a cylindrical portion being longitudinally divided in two sectors .

72. The dispenser according to claim 71, wherein at least one rack is formed on the outer surface of at least one of said sectors.

73. The dispenser according to claim 71, wherein at least two racks are formed on the outer surface of at least one of said sectors .

74. The dispenser according to claim 73, wherein said racks are separated by at least one partition wall.

75. The dispenser according to claim 73, wherein said racks comprise non-oriented teeth.

76. The dispenser according to claim 73 , wherein said racks comprise teeth with alternating directions.

77. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, comprising means suitable for constantly biasing said actuating means to one of said predetermined positions .

78. The dispenser according to claim 77, wherein said means suitable to bias said actuating means comprise a leaf spring.

79. The dispenser according to claim 78, wherein said leaf spring comprises a fork-like portion.

80. The dispenser according to claim 79, wherein said fork-like portion comprises at least one projecting tab.

81. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said means suitable to bias said actuating means comprise a helical spring.

82. The dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein said means suitable to bias said actuating means comprise a shaped bearing.

83. The dispenser according to claim 82, wherein said shaped bearing comprises at least one projecting tab.

84. A dispenser for a stick product comprising:

- moving means suitable for transmitting to said product a movement of extension from said opening and selectively of retraction within said opening;

- control means suitable to activate said actuating means by means of a reciprocating movement between two predetermined positions .

85. A dispenser for a stick product comprising:

- a substantially tubular container 412, having a predetermined axis w-w, comprising an opening 413 at the one end for the extension and retraction of a stick product 480, and an opening 417 at the opposite end;

- an elastic element 18;

- a holding insert 420;

- an actuating insert 440;

- a cup 460;

- an actuator 470;

- an elastic element 18; said container 412 comprising at least one notch 414 substantially parallel to said axis w-w, at least one relief 416, suitable to be coupled with said actuator 470 such that said actuator 470 is allowed to rotate about said axis w-w and said actuator 470 is allowed to translate along said axis w-w to a predetermined extent, a shoulder 418 suitable to prevent said holding insert 420 from translating along said axis w-w in at least one direction;

- said holding insert 420 comprising a cylindrical portion 421 ending with a cylindrical sector 423 having two racks 425 and 426 being formed on the inner surface thereof, which are placed opposite to each other in an opposite orientation, a free end 427 on the opposite side to said cylindrical portion 421 comprising at least one projecting portion 435 suitable to be coupled with said elastic element 18, a cavity 429, a partition wall 439 between said racks 425 and 426;

- said actuating insert 440 comprising a cylindrical portion 441 ending with a cylindrical sector 443 having two racks 445 and 446 being formed on the inner surface thereof, which are placed opposite to each other in an opposite orientation, a free end 447 on the side opposite said cylindrical portion 441, a cavity 449, means for interference-coupling with said actuator 470, a partition wall 459 between said racks 445 and 446;

- said cup 460 comprising a substantially tubular portion 461, suitable to receive a stick product 480 with a plurality of at least four flexible small arms 464 being formed in the wall thereof, which comprise pawls 465, 466, 467 and 468 that are arranged circumferentially alternating along said wall, said tubular portion 461 being at least partially defined on the bottom thereof by a crosswise wall, means for coupling with said container 12 such that translation is allowed along said axis w-w and rotation is prevented about said axis w-w;

- said actuator 470 comprising a generally tubular body, means for interference-coupling with said actuating insert 440, means suitable to co-operate with said container 412 such that said actuator 470 is allowed to rotate about said axis w-w and said actuator 470 is allowed to translate along said axis w-w to a predetermined extent.

86. The dispenser according to claim 1-??? which is suitable for accommodating a lead.

87. The dispenser according to claim 86 which is suitable to accommodate a lead for graphic use.

88. The dispenser according to claim 86 which is suitable for accommodating a colour lead.

89. The dispenser according to claim 86 which is suitable for accommodating a graphite.

90. The dispenser according to claim 86 which is suitable to accommodate a stick made of a solid, semi-solid or pasty substance for cosmetic use .

91. The dispenser according to claim 86 which is suitable to accommodate a stick made of a solid or semi-solid for pharmacological use .

92. A method for delivering and retracting a stick product in a container having a predetermined axis x-x, in which:

- delivery is obtained by axially translating a delivery and retraction actuator relative to said container between two predetermined positions;

- retraction is obtained by axially translating a delivery and retraction actuator relative to said container between two predetermined positions; the selection between the way of delivery and way of retraction is obtained by rotating a selection actuator relative to said container between two predetermined positions.

93. The method for delivering and retracting a stick product according to claim 92, wherein said delivery and retracting actuator is in the vicinity of an opening for extending and retracting said product from said container, wherein the actuating translation by the actuator is operated by acting in the vicinity of the opening of extension and retraction of the product .

94. The method for delivering and retracting a stick product according to claim 92, wherein said delivery and retraction actuator is in the vicinity of an opening for extension and retraction of said product from said container, wherein the actuating translation by the actuator is operated by acting in the vicinity of the opening of extension and retraction of the product.

95. The method for delivering and retracting a stick product according to claim 92, wherein said delivery and retraction actuator is in the vicinity of an end opposite an opening for extending and retracting said product from said container, wherein the actuating translation of the actuator is operated by acting in the vicinity of the end opposite the opening for extending and retracting the product .

96. The method for delivering and retracting a stick product according to claim 92, wherein said selection actuator is in the vicinity of an end opposite an opening for extending and retracting said product from said container, wherein the rotation for selecting the way of movement of the product is carried out by acting in the vicinity of the end opposite the opening for extending and retracting the product.

97. The method for delivering and retracting a stick product according to claim 92, wherein said delivery and retracting actuator and said selection actuator are one individual component, wherein said actuating translation of the actuator and said selection rotation are carried out by holding said one individual component .