WO2010076658A2

WO2010076658A2 - Appartus and method for releasing a measured amount of content from a container

Info

Publication number: WO2010076658A2
Application number: PCT/IB2009/007991
Authority: WO
Inventors: Meir Eini; David Schuz
Original assignee: Foamix Ltd.
Priority date: 2008-12-31
Filing date: 2009-12-31
Publication date: 2010-07-08
Also published as: WO2010076658A3

Abstract

Apparatuses for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container are provided. The apparatuses include (a) a container (12) capable of housing a pressurized gas and a content, the container including a valve in fluid communication with the content; (b) a release assembly (8) for releasing content from the container, where the release assembly is in fluid communication with the valve; and (c) a rotatable assembly (1), where the rotatable assembly includes a wheeled actuator (2) having a plurality of sides (4) and angles (5). The wheeled actuator of the apparatus is positioned for engagement with the release assembly. Engagement of the wheeled actuator with the release assembly moves the release assembly from a first closed position to a second open position. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes one or more wheeled switches. Methods for delivering and applying a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container are also provided.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RELEASING A MEASURED AMOUNT OF CONTENT FROM A CONTAINER

Field Of The Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for controlled release of content from a container. In particular, the present invention relates to method and apparatus for releasing a predetermined quantity of content or "unit dose" from a pressurized container.

Background

[0002] Foam containers have existed for many years and are used for a variety of products.

[0003] Methods of administering metered doses from a dosing device are known, however, most are directed to dispensing liquid forms, such as creams, gels and fluids. See, e.g., United States Patent No. 6,186,367 and United States Published Appln. No. 2005/0054991.

[0004] Methods for the volumetrically controlled dosing of foams have been described using a metering valve in which valved inlet and outlet passages control the flow of a fluid into a dosing chamber of predetermined volume. See, for example, United States Patent No. 5,007,556.

[0005] Methods and apparatuses for dispensing content from multiple containers are known in the art, but such disclosures do not address the problem of dispensing a predetermined amount of content from each of one or more containers. See, for example, United States Patent Publication No. 2008/0251547.

[0006] Prior art foam metering devices have been described as inaccurate and imprecise. Foam metering devices capable of providing a reliable measure or dose of content from a pressurized container are desired.

[0007] Prior art foam metering devices use a reservoir of a specific measure, which first has to be filed and then emptied. [0008] There has long existed the need for a simpler apparatus and method for controlled application of foam released from a foam container. The need and uses of such dosing apparatus vary widely and can include any process requiring or enhanced by controlled application of the foam for which a "guesstimate" manual application using a brush, hands or any other implement or member is to be avoided.

Summary

[0009] A method and apparatus for releasing a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container is described. A method and an apparatus for applying foam released from a pressurized container also are described. The method and apparatus amongst other things eliminate the requirement of a reservoir of specific measure which is first filled and then emptied.

[0010] In one aspect, an apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container is provided. An apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container comprising:

a container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a content, the container comprising a valve in fluid communication with the content;

a release assembly for releasing content from the container, wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with the valve;

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly comprises a wheeled actuator having a plurality of edges and corners, wherein the wheeled actuator is positioned for rotational engagement with the release assembly;

wherein the wheeled actuator is capable of movement from a first resting position wherein the valve is closed to a second actuated position, wherein the valve is open to fluid flow.

[0011] In one embodiment, engagement of the wheeled actuator with the release assembly moves the release assembly by rotating from a first position where a first side of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly to a second position where a corner of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly.

[0012] In another aspect an apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container is provided. The apparatus includes:

a release assembly for releasing content from the container, wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with the valve; and

a rotatable assembly, including

a wheeled actuator rotatable around an axis and comprising at least one protrusion capable of engaging the release assembly, the actuator movable from a first resting position to a second actuated position, wherein the actuated position opens the valve to fluid flow; and

a wheeled switch coaxial with the wheeled actuator about the axis and operably linked to the wheeled actuator, wherein the wheeled switch is indexed to advance the rotatable assembly by a predetermined angle.

[0013] In any of the embodiments described herein, the wheeled actuator includes a polygon having a plurality of edges and corners, wherein the wheeled actuator is positioned for engagement of the corners with the release assembly for moving the release assembly from a first resting position to a second actuated position; and a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and corners, wherein the predetermined angle is determined by the numbers of the sides and the corners of the wheeled switch.

[0014] In any of the embodiments described herein, the wheeled actuator includes one or more paddles attached to a disk, wherein the paddle is capable of engaging the release assembly for moving the release assembly from a first resting position to a second actuated position. In any of the embodiments described herein, engagement of the wheeled actuator with the release assembly moves the release assembly from a first closed position to a second open position; and the wheeled switch is operably linked to the wheeled actuator to rotate when the wheeled switch is moved about the axis.

[0015] In any of the embodiments described herein, the angle-to-angle diameter of the wheeled switch is larger than the angle-to-angle diameter of the wheeled actuator.

[0016] In any of the embodiments described herein, the release assembly comprises a cap in contact with the valve and the wheeled actuator and wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with an exit tube (10).

[0017] In any of the embodiments described herein, the wheeled actuator has 3 to 8 sides and 3 to 8 corners.

[0018] In any of the embodiments described herein, the wheeled switch has 3 to 8 sides and 3 to 8 corners.

[0019] In any of the embodiments described herein, the wheeled actuator has the same number of sides and corners as the wheeled switch.

[0020] In any of the embodiments described herein, the number of sides and corners of the wheeled actuator is a fraction of the number of sides and corners of the wheeled switch.

[0021] In any of the embodiments described herein, the number of sides and corners of the wheeled actuator is a multiple of the number of sides and corners of the wheeled switch (i.e., 2x for double dose, 3x for triple dose, etc.).

[0022] In any of the embodiments described herein, the rotatable assembly includes two wheeled actuators.

[0023] In any of the embodiments described herein, the rotatable assembly includestwo wheeled switches. [0024] In any of the embodiments described herein, a portion of the cap is cut away or angled.

[0025] In any of the embodiments described herein, the apparatus further includes a second container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a second content, the second container comprising a second valve in fluid communication with the release assembly.

[0026] In another aspect, an apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container is provided. The apparatus includes:

a first container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a first content, the first container including a first valve in fluid communication with the first content;

a second container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a second content, the second container including a second valve in fluid communication with the second content;

a release assembly for releasing content from the container, wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with the first and second valves; and

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly includes:

a first wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and corners,

a second wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and corners, and

a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and corners.

[0027] The wheeled actuator is in contact with the first valve and the second wheeled actuator is in contact with the second valve. Upon rotation about a common axis, the wheeled switch, the first wheeled actuator, and the second wheeled actuator are capable of moving the release assembly from a first position to a second position, thereby actuating the first and second valves and allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from the first container and the second container respectively.

[0028] In any of the embodiments described herein, the wheeled switch, the first wheeled actuator and the second wheeled actuator are capable of moving the release assembly by rotating simultaneously from a first position where a first side of the each of the first and second wheeled actuators is in contact with the release assembly to a second position where a corner of each of the first and second wheeled actuators is in contact with the release assembly.

[0029] In another aspect, an apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container is provided. The apparatus includes:

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly includes:

a wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and corners,

a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and corners.

[0030] The wheeled actuator is in contact with the first and second valves. Upon rotation about a common axis, the wheeled switch and the wheeled actuator are capable of moving the release assembly from a first position to a second position, thereby actuating the first and second valves and allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from the first container and the second container respectively.

[0031] In any of the embodiments described herein, the wheeled actuator and the wheeled switch are capable of moving the release assembly by rotating simultaneously from a first position where a first side of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly to a second position where a corner of each of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly.

[0032] In any of the embodiments described herein, the release assembly includes a mixing chamber.

[0033] In any of the embodiments described herein, the release assembly includes a first cap in contact with the first valve and a second cap in contact with the second valve.

[0034] In another aspect, a method for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container is provided. The method includes providing an apparatus for releasing a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including:

(i) a container (12) capable of housing a pressurized gas and a deliverable content, the container including a valve in fluid communication with the deliverable content;

(ii) a release assembly (8) for releasing content from the container, wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with the valve; and

(iii) a rotatable assembly (1), wherein the rotatable assembly includes a wheeled actuator (3) having a plurality of sides (4) and corners (5), wherein the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly.

[0035] The method also includes rotating the wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from a first position to a second position thereby actuating the valve and allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from the container; and continuing to rotate the wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from the second position to the first position, thereby actuating the valve to thereby halt content delivery from the container.

[0036] In any of the embodiments described herein, the wheeled actuator moves the release assembly by rotating from a first position where a first side of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly to a second position where a corner of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly.

[0037] In another aspect, a method for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container is provided. The method includes providing an apparatus for releasing a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including:

a release assembly for releasing content from the container, wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with the first and second valves;

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly includes:

a first wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and corners,

a second wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and corners, and

a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and corners.

[0038] The wheeled actuator is in contact with the first valve and the second wheeled actuator is in contact with the second valve. The method also includes rotating the first wheeled actuator and the second wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from a first position to a second position thereby actuating the first valve and the second valve, allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from each of the first container and the second container; and continuing to rotate the first wheeled actuator and the second wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from the second position to the first position, thereby actuating the first and second valves to thereby halt content delivery from the first and second containers.

[0039] In another aspect, a method for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container is provided. The method includes providing an apparatus for releasing a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including:

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly includes:

a wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and corners, and

a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and corners.

[0040] The wheeled actuator is in contact with the first and second valves. The method also includes rotating the wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from a first position to a second position thereby actuating the first and second valves and allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from the first and second containers; and continuing to rotate the wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from the second position to the first position, thereby actuating the first and second valves to thereby halt content delivery from the first and second containers.

Brief Description Of The Drawings

[0041] The invention is described with reference to the drawings, which are presented for the purpose of illustration only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Unless otherwise indicated, elements are indicated by the same number in all drawings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of an apparatus for releasing a measured amount of content from a container.

[0043] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the components of an embodiment of an apparatus that includes one container capable of housing a content for dispensing.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 2.

[0045] FIG. 4 is a top external view of an embodiment of a unit dosing apparatus that includes a rotatable assembly including one wheeled actuator in between and parallel to two wheeled switches.

[0046] FIG. 5. is a side external view of the embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0047] FIG. 6 is an external view of a unit dosing apparatus including a rotatable assembly contained in a housing assembled with one container housing a content for dispensing.

[0048] FIG. 7 is a front view of one possible embodiment of a unit dosing apparatus that includes one wheeled actuator in between and parallel to two wheeled switches, without a housing containing the dispensing system.

[0049] FIG. 8 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 7.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a unit dosing apparatus that includes two containers, each housing a content for dispensing; one first wheel actuator and wheeled switch is shown in cross-section and a second wheeled actuator is positioned behind the wheeled actuator.

[0051] FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 9.

[0052] FIG. 11 is an external rear view of one embodiment of a unit dosing apparatus that includes multiple containers, each housing a content for dispensing, enclosed in a housing.

[0053] FIG. 12 is an external rear view of one embodiment of a unit dosing apparatus that includes multiple containers, each housing a content for dispensing, enclosed in a housing.

[0054] FIG. 13 is an external front view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 showing an exit tube for release of content from the containers.

[0055] FIGS. 14A-E are cross sectional view of various embodiments of the release cap 8 of the unit dosing apparatus described herein.

[0056] FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of an aerosol valve suitable for use in the unit dose apparatus according to in one or more embodiments described herein.

[0057] FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic illustration of an aerosol valve in the closed (FIG. 16A) and open (FIG. 16B) position.

[0058] FIG. 17A-17C are cross-sectional illustrations of the dosing apparatus (a) in a first resting position, (b) during actuation and (c) in a second resting position.

[0059] FIG. 18A-18D are illustrations of the dosing apparatus with a paddle actuator system.

Detailed Description Of The Invention

[0060] Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows a container 12 that is capable of including a content (not shown). The container 12 is hollow body which may be made from any material, for example, aluminum, tin-plate, plastics including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), oriented polypropylene (OPP), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) or polyamide and including mixtures, laminates and the like. When the container is metal, the interior surface of the metal container is in some embodiments laminated with a plastic material or coated with a lacquer or with a varnish to protect the interior surface of the container from corrosion. Corrosion may weaken the container and may also lead to a discoloration of the container's content. Preferred plastic materials for lamination and lacquers or varnishes for coating are epoxy phenolic, polyamide imide, organosol, PET, PP, PE or a combination thereof.

[0061] The content housed by container 12 is flowable and can be a liquid or a semi-liquid. Nonlimiting examples of the content housed by container 12 includes lotions, liquid sprayable compositions, mousse compositions and foamable compositions. The mousse and foamable compositions can be presented as a liquid, a cream or an ointment prior to release from the container. For nonfoamable compositions such as aerosol sprays the wheeled actuator 1 can be adapted to deflect the aerosol stem downwards to release the spray as a certain dose. The apparatus can also be adapted for use with a bag in a can device, which contains both propellant and composition separately in the container or can, wherein the composition is enclosed in bag which is separate from the propellant but upon wheeled actuation the propellant expels a portion of the contents from the bag. In a further embodiment the bag may also contain propellant.

[0062] When the content is a foamable composition, for example, it includes components to provide the desired functionality of the foam upon administration such as polymeric agents to stabilize the foam, as well as additives that promote foam formation, such as surfactants, foam adjuvants and propellant. Aerosol propellants are used to generate and administer the foamable composition as a foam. Foamable compositions include, without limitation, foamable emulsions, foamable solutions, foamable suspensions, foamable gels, foamable non-aqueous formulations, foamable oleaginous formulations, viscous materials, or extrudable materials. The total composition including propellant, foamable composition and optional ingredients is referred to as the foamable carrier. The propellant makes up about 3% to about 40% or preferably from about 4% to about 35% or more preferably from about 5% to about 25% by weight of the foamable carrier. An effective amount of propellant is used to propel the contents from the canister so that the composition is not released so slowly so as to cause the user to wait a substantial period of time to receive the dose and or to display substantial tailing where the content is released in pulses and/or to display jetting where the propellant causes the contents to be expelled in forceful jets, which can be uncomfortable or even painful if the jets make contact with the user. In an embodiment, the propellant is a hydrocarbon propellant. Examples of suitable propellants include volatile hydrocarbons such as butane, propane, isobutane or mixtures thereof, and fluorocarbon gases. Non limiting examples are AP70; AP46; and 1681. Alternatively, use of ether propellants, fluorocarbon propellants, as well as compressed gases (e.g., air, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and nitrogen) is also possible. Examples of other optional propellants are dimethyl ether (DME), methyl ethyl ether and hydro fluoroalkanes (HFA), for example HFA 134a (1,1,1,2,- tetrafluoroethane) and HFA 227 (1,1,1,2,3,3,3-heptafluoropropane). Mixtures of propellants can be useful. Typical concentrations of hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon propellants is between about 3% and about 25%, however, in various applications, higher concentrations, up to about 40% or in limited cases even up to about 70% can be used. The concentration of a compressed gas, such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen is restricted to up to about 5% to 10% due to their high pressure; however, it should be noted that even about 1% propellant depending upon the pressure and formulation may be sufficient to evolve a foam. In an embodiment, the ratio of the foamable carrier to the propellant is aboutlOO:l to about 100:25.

[0063] In one or more preferred embodiments, the propellant is a liquefied gas, such as butane, propane, isobutane or mixtures thereof. The liquefied gas typically forms a solution or emulsion with the other components of the content and is in equilibrium with propellant gas, which occupies a volume of the container (e.g., the "head space") and generates the internal pressure used to discharge the product from inside the container. Furthermore, upon release, the gas expands to form many "bubbles" within the composition thereby creating the foam. Sufficient gas is contained in the container to substantially expel all the product from the container at the correct pressure throughout the life of the article. The quantity also depends from the type of gases used.

[0064] In an embodiment the propellant is 1681, which is a mixture of propane, isobutene and butane. In another embodiment the propellant is AP 70, which is a mixture of propane, isobutene and butane under higher pressure.

[0065] In some embodiments, the ratio of the liquefied or compressed gas propellant to the other components of the formulation ranges from about 3:100 to about 25 : 100 by weight, from about 3 : 100 to about 35 : 100, from about 3 : 100 to about 40:100 or from about 3:100 to about 45:100. In some embodiments, the ratio of the liquefied or compressed gas propellant to the other components of the formulation is at least about 3:100, at least about 10:100, at least about 15:100, at least about 20:100, or at least about 25:100.

[0066] Alcohol and organic solvents render foams inflammable. Fluorohydrocarbon propellants, other than chloro-fluoro carbons (CMCs), which are non-ozone-depleting propellants, are useful and include, but are not limited to, hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) propellants, which contain no chlorine atoms, and as such, fall completely outside concerns about stratospheric ozone destruction by chlorofluorocarbons or other chlorinated hydrocarbons. Exemplary non-flammable propellants include propellants made by DuPont under the registered trademark Dymel, such as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluorethane (Dymel 134), and 1,1,1,2,3,3,3- heptafluoropropane (Dymel 227), 1,1-difluoro ethane (Dymel 152) and 1,1,1,3,3,3- hexafluoropropane. HFCs possess Ozone Depletion Potential of 0.00 and thus, they are allowed for use as propellant in aerosol products.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, the propellant comprises a combination of an HFC and a hydrocarbon propellant such as n-butane or mixtures of hydrocarbon propellants such as propane, isobutane and butane. Where mixtures are used, they can be selected to generate different levels of pressure. For example 1681 has a lower pressure than AP 40 which is lower than that provided by propane alone. The amount and pressure of the propellant is selected to provide release without powerful jets and without tailing such that the foam is released in ideally a substantially single unbroken pulse,

[0068] In one or more embodiments, "liquification" occurs following adding the propellant, which in turn will affect the viscosity substantially or radically. Thus in one or more embodiments, the compositions are liquefied or further liquefied by the propellant.

[0069] In one or more embodiments, propellant is used to create a spray instead of a foam or mousse. As noted herein, a spray or aerosol is a suspension of liquid droplets or solid particles in a gas, such as air; a foam is a substance that is formed by trapping many gas bubbles in a liquid or solid. A foam is normally an extremely complex system consisting of poly disperse gas bubbles separated by draining films.

[0070] In one or more embodiments, propellant is used to expel a "cream" instead of a foam or mousse or spray.

[0071] Container 12 includes valve stem 9 in fluid communication with the content. In FIG. 1, valve stem 9 extends from container 12 to form a stem or an open channel through which the content of the container can flow. The valve stem houses a valve that regulates the flow of content from container 12, By applying external pressure to valve stem 9, the valve moves between a first (closed) and second (open) position. In the closed position, the open channel formed by valve stem 9 is blocked and contents of container 12 are isolated from the exterior. In the open position, the valve and stem are unobstructed to provide fluid communication with the container interior, allowing contents of container 12 to be dispensed from the container through the valve stem 9. Conventional valve systems are known and can be used according to one or more embodiments.

[0072] In some embodiments, a conduit, or dip tube, 15, is attached to or integrally formed with stem 9 and/or the valve. Such a conduit is in fluid communication with and extends internally from the stem or valve and is immersed in or in fluid communication with the content of container 12, thereby facilitating flow of the content from the interior of the container 12, into the conduit, and through the valve stem 9. In order to deliver the majority of the content from the container, the conduit extends a distance into the region of the container where the content resides. In some embodiments, the conduit extends substantially to the floor or bottom interior surface of the container.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 1, container 12 is in contact with and connected to a dispensing system including a release cap 8 and rotatable assembly 1. An exploded view of the dosage delivery apparatus is shown in FIG. 3. Release cap 8 is in fluid communication with the stem 9 of container 12. Release cap 8, although a single unit can be considered as including three elements, a channel 13 that is in fluid communication with valve stem 9 and through which the content of container 12 flows upon exiting from container 12 through the stem 9, an exit tube 10, and a base 8b. In some embodiments, base 8b is attached to or integrally formed with exit tube 10. Exit tube 10 extends externally from the base of the release cap 8 to form a passageway for the content to exit container 12. Exit tube 10 may be molded or positioned at any effective angle in relation to the release cap to achieve a desired angle for release. FIG. 3 also shows channel 13 running integrally through release cap 8 and exit tube 10. Housing 11 is placed over the components forming the dispensing system. Housing 11 includes hole 11a that allow for insertion of crossbar 14, which functions as the common axis for the rotatable assembly. As shown in FIG. 3, housing 11 also includes an aperture 16 for receiving exit tube 10. In other embodiments, the release cap 8 can be made of 2 or more connected pieces. In other embodiments, the channel includes a mixing chamber between release cap base 8b and exit tube 10, for example where a dual or multi-canister arrangement is envisaged. In another embodiment the angled or perpendicular exit tube might be shortened or could be adapted to attach one of many different types of applicator suitable for foam application.

[0074] In addition to being in fluid communication with container 12, release cap 8 is in contact (either directly or indirectly) with rotatable assembly 1. Accordingly, release cap 8 is disposed between container 12 and rotatable assembly 1. Rotatable assembly 1 includes a wheeled actuator 2 having a plurality of edges 4 and corners 5 that provide for resting contact with the release cap (edges 4) and protrusions (corners 5) Wheeled actuator is a polygon structure having corners 5 defined by the intersection of two adjacent edges. As shown in FIG. 1, wheeled actuator 2 has six sides. In other embodiments, wheeled actuator has from three to eight edges and a corresponding number of corners. Higher numbers of edges and corners are possible. For example in other embodiments it can have 9 or 10 edges and corresponding corners. Thus, in some embodiments, wheeled actuator has three, four, five, six, seven, or eight edges and three, four, five, six, seven, or eight corners.

[0075] In another embodiment the wheeled actuator is a disc or polygon with a plurality of paddles each extending from the surface of the disc or polygon at an angle as illustrated in FIG. 18A-D. The paddles are angled in a clockwise or in an anti clockwise fashion (FIG. 18A and 18B). In some embodiments the number of edges of the rotatable assembly and the number of paddles correspond (FIGS. 18A and 18C). In other embodiments the number of paddles is in excess of the number of edges (FIG. 18B). In some embodiments there are three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten paddles. In an embodiment the paddles are rigid. In another embodiment the paddles have some resilience or flexibility. In one or more embodiments the length of the paddles and the spatial position of the ends of the paddles which are to engage the cap edge are such as to mimic the spatial position of the corner. So for example, if there were three corners describing a triangular actuator then in a paddle version the ends of the paddles in an embodiment would form a triangular actuator. The paddles can interact with the external surface on the cap in a way similar to that in which each of the corners caused the edge to be depressed and to return to a resting position. In an embodiment the paddles are adapted to actuate a ramp cap (see FIG. 14C and description below). In one embodiment as the paddles go down the ramped surface, they depress the ramp and then disengage as the slope continues to fall away. In another embodiment as the paddles go up the ramped surface, they depress the ramp and then disengage as the slope continues to rise. In an alternative embodiment, the paddles may be replaced by a protrusion. In certain embodiments the protrusion is at approximately at 75 to 105 degrees to the surface of the disc or center of a polygon corner. Preferably the protrusion will have a concave or beveled external edge, which will come into contact with the cap external surface 8a. Similarly, when a protrusion is used in place of a corner or a paddle the ends of the protrusion, which are to engage the edge of the cap are such as to mimic the spatial position of the corner.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 1, which is in a rest position, edge 4a of wheeled actuator 2 is in contact with external surface 8a of cap 8. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, in a resting position face 4a of wheeled actuator 2 is parallel to external surface 8a of cap 8 such that cap 8 is in substantial contact with edge 4a along the entire length of the edge. Alternatively in some embodiments, cap 8 is in contact with an edge of the wheeled actuator along a portion of the length of the edge, such as for example 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% of the length of the edge. As discussed in greater detail hereinbelow, the portion and/or aspect of the actuator wheel fact in pressurized contact with the external surface of the cap and the time it is in pressurized contact is a factor in the dose size delivered from the container.

[0077] Rotatable assembly 1 also includes wheeled switch 3 that is coaxial with wheeled actuator 2 about axis 14. Wheeled switch 3 includes a plurality of sides 6 and corners 7, which serve as an index to define the angle of rotation for the rotatable assembly. As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, wheeled switch 3 includes the same number of sides 6 and corners 7 as wheeled actuator 2. In other embodiments, as described herein, wheeled switch 3 includes fewer sides and corners than wheeled actuator 2. The number of sides and corners of wheeled switch 3 is a multiple of the number of edges and corners of wheeled actuator 2 (i.e., 2x, 3x, etc.). Wheeled switch 3 is operably linked to wheeled actuator 2 such that rotation of wheeled switch 3 causes wheeled actuator 2 to also rotate. In a further embodiment a gearing can be incorporated to vary the ratio of rotation between the switch an the actuator such that for example a single switch operation would result in the desired number of unit doses, for example, two unit doses. In other embodiments, gears can be incorporated into the rotatable assembly to vary the ratio of rotation between the switch and the actuator such that rotation of the wheeled switch through a given rotation angle provides a related rotation angle for the wheeled actuator. For example a single switch operation would result in desired number of unit doses for example, say two unit doses. A control could be added to determine the number of unit doses to be delivered per single switch operation, such as half a dose, a single dose, two, three, four or five doses. The control can be operably connected to an indicator, such as an indicator window, that indicates the various available switch dose ratios, say from 2:1 to say 1 :5 that are made available by the gears. A lock can be provided so the dose ratio selected remains fixed. In both the single and dual dose devices each canister is in a fixed position relative to the actuator otherwise small movements in the canister position can cause variations in the amount of dose released. The housing or container for the device is adapted to hold each canister firmly in position so that when the actuator actuates the valve on a canister the canister remains substantially in the same position, and where there are two canisters that they also remain in the same position relative to each other so that the unit dose is repeatable to the extent and within the limits described herein. In an embodiment, the housing or container will include one or more rings or half rings rings or other projections at one or more points on opposite sides of the housing or container side that are adapted to hold each canister firmly in its intended position.

[0078] Operation of the device to provide a metered unit dose of content is also described with reference to FIGS. 17A-17C. In a resting position, edge 4a of wheeled actuator 2 is in contact with external surface 8a of release cap 8. Upon rotation of wheeled actuator 2, as described in more detail below, corner 5 of the wheeled actuator is rotated into contact with external surface 8a and thereby presses down on cap 8 which in turn presses down on valve stem 9. In one embodiment, when the cap is depressed by the wheeled actuator, it pushes the valve stem is displaced downwards against a spring contained in the valve. The valve stem moves down through an inner gasket of the valve, and when the valve aperture is below the level of the gasket, liquid flows up through the dip tube into the valve housing, then through the valve stem to the actuator.

[0079] The liquid will continue to flow due to the internal pressure exerted by the propellant, until the valve is closed when the operator releases the pressure on the actuator, in this case by rotation of the wheeled actuator such that side 4 is parallel with the upper surface of the cap and as a result the valve stem is pushed upwards by a spring (or other resilient tool) and the hole is no longer accessible to the liquid.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 17A, rotatable assembly 1 including actuator 2 and switch 3 is capable of rotating about an axis 14. In resting position, valve 9 is closed. When the assembly is rotated in the direction indicated by arrow 20 in FIG. 17 A, it causes wheeled actuator 2 to rotate, advancing the actuator, and causing corner 5a of the wheeled actuator to engage with the cap surface 8a, as shown in FIG. 17B. The force used in rotating the rotatable assembly forces corner 5a onto the top of the cap, thereby depressing it on to the stem/valve 9 in the direction indicated by arrow 22 so that the cap moves from a first position (indicated by dashed lines in FIG. 17B) to a second position (indicated by solid lines in FIG. 17B). The distance between edge 4a and canister top 12a in FIG. 17A is longer than the distance from corner 5a to the canister top 12a (when it is in perpendicular alignment to the canister. As such when corner 5a is rotated clockwise causing it to move from the position shown in FIG. 17A to the position shown in FIG. 17B corner 5a will engage edge 4a applying pressure and forcing down cap 8 and in turn actuating the valve as described in more detail herein and below. In other words, the distance between edge 4a and axis 14 in FIG. 17A is less than the distance from corner 5a to axis 14. As corner 5a is rotated clockwise, it moves from the position shown in FIG. 17A to the position shown in FIG. 17B. The corner 5a engages cap surface 8a, applying pressure and forcing down cap 8 and in turn actuating the valve as described in more detail later. In other words, because the distance between corner 5a and the center of the axis is further than the distance between edge 4a and the center of the axis, the rotation causes cap 8 to move from a first position to a second position. The movement of the cap actuates valve 9, causing it to open and release content from the container (fluid flow is illustrated by arrow 24 in FIG. 17B. As the rotatable assembly continues to rotate about the axis, a second edge 4b of the wheeled actuator comes into contact with the cap. As the switch completes a unit rotation, which can be clockwise or anti-clockwise, the corner 5a rises and moves away from the cap surface 8a and in consequence the cap 8 and likewise valve stem 9 return to their original positions, cutting off the flow out of the canister 12. [0081] In any of the above described embodiments, a spring (not shown) in the valve forces the valve upwards in the direction of arrow 26, which in turn pushes the cap upwards to its original position, as shown in FIG. 17C. In other words, when the external upper surface of the cap 8a is in contact with the wheeled actuator substantially along the entire plane formed by the second edge 4b, the cap will have moved from the second position back to the first position, thereby closing the valve and stopping the release of content from the container.

[0082] The action of wheeled actuator 2 from a first position in which edge 4a contacts cap surface 8a to a second position in which edge 4b contacts the cap surface (e.g., an 'edge-to-edge cycle') results in release of a predetermined quantity of foam, e.g., a dose, from the container. The dose is repeatable within reasonable limits, for each formulation type, with a reasonable, reproducible average dose, although the unit dose can vary from dose to does and from formulation to formulation. Further, in some embodiments, for example, a unit dose of content is released by a single edge-to-edge rotation of the wheeled actuator. Accordingly, a user can deliver a preset amount of content based on the number of doses required. If two doses are required, the user rotates the rotatable assembly through two edge- to-edge cycles (i.e., content is released from the container twice, a first when the initial angle is in engaged with the cap and a second when the next angle is engaged with the cap). Larger amounts of content (i.e., more unit doses) are dispensed by rotating the rotatable assembly 1 the appropriate number of times.

[0083] In some embodiments, the speed at which the rotatable assembly is turned affects the amount of content dispensed by the device. For example, in some embodiments, turning the wheel one unit dose twice as fast, reduces the amount of time in which the valve is open, thereby reducing the amount of material released would be less. In some embodiments, however, by refining the design of the device and providing , for example, shorter distances involved in the dimensions of the device and valves results in consistent amounts of approximately similar content released (within a reasonable margin of error depending on the intended use), even allowing for reasonable variations in the speed at which operator[s] may use the device. For example, application of creams, gels lotions mousses, foams and the like for dermatological or body cavity use is normally extruded and applied without pre- measuring an accurate volume or weight. So the provision of a simple, quick and reasonably accurate unit dose device can be important in providing more reproducible applications of material, improved results and improved compliance. In any of the above described embodiments, the unit dose varies less than about 50%, or less than about 40%, or less than about 30%, or less than about 20%, or less than about 10%, or less than about 5% from dose to dose.

[0084] Various mechanisms are available to inform the user of the amount of doses being dispensed from the apparatus. In any of the above described embodiments, the action of rotating the rotatable assembly 1 is such that the wheeled actuator moves from a first edge to a second edge and thereby engages cap 8 to cause it to move. In any of the above described embodiments, the action of rotating the rotatable assembly 1 is such that the edge-to-edge movement of the wheeled actuator causes a discrete tactile sensation. Each discrete tactile sensation is associated with a single edge-to-edge turn of wheeled actuator 2, dispensing a single dose. In any of the above described embodiments, the rotating action of the assembly causes an audible sound associated with each side-to-side turn. In some embodiments, the sound is a clicking sound. In any of the above described embodiments, the user is aware of the number of doses being dispensed by both tactile sensations and audible sounds. In any of the above described embodiments a counter is used to indicate the number of doses released. In an embodiment the counter is mechanical. In an embodiment it is electronic. In some embodiments, the wheeled actuator can be a single or a multiple wheeled actuator and can include actuating corners, actuating paddles or actuating protrusions as described elsewhere herein.

[0085] A variety of valve configurations are known in the art and are useful in conjunction with the apparatuses and methods described herein. Such valves include, but are not limited to standard valves, metered dose valves, continuous valves and inverted valves. As description of valves and valve terminology appropriate for use in the apparatuses and methods described herein is found at http://www.precision-valve.com/en/resources/technical-reference. [0086] In any of the above described embodiments, the apparatus described herein includes an aerosol valve 100, as shown in FIG. 15. The valve is made up of the valve cup 110 typically constructed from tinplated steel, or aluminum, an outer gasket 120, which is the seal between the valve cup and the aerosol can (not shown), a valve housing 130, which contains the valve stem 132, spring 134 (typically made of stainless steel) and inner gasket 136, and a dip tube 140, which allows the liquid to enter valve. The valve stem 132 is fitted with small apertures 150, which is the tap through which the product flows. The inner gasket 136 covers the aperture 150 (hole) in the valve stem. Valves may contain one, two, three, four or more apertures 150, depending on the nature of the product to be dispensed. In FIG. 15 a first aperture can be seen at the top of the valve stem and a second aperture can be seen close to the bottom of the valve stem at one side. An integral channel is formed between first apertures 150 and second aperture 152 through which content from the canister may pass or through which content (e.g. propellant) may be loaded into the canister. It can be seen that in FIG. 15 and in FIG. 16A the second aperture 152 is closed and any content in the canister cannot flow into the second aperture from the canister. In the closed position, the first aperture(s) 150 is covered by the inner gasket (FIG. 16 A. When the actuator is depressed it pushes the valve stem through the inner gasket, and the first aperture(s) 150 is uncovered, allowing liquid to pass through the valve and into the actuator (FIG. 16B).

[0087] The valve can have a stem with 1 to 4 second apertures, or 1 to 2 second apertures. Each aperture can have a diameter of about 0.2 mm to about 1 mm, or a diameter of about 0.3 mm to about 0.8 mm. The total aperture area, i.e., the sum of areas of all apertures in a given stem, is between about 0.01 mm² and 1 mm² or the total aperture area is between about 0.04 mm² and 0.5 mm².

[0088] The open and closed positions of the valve of FIG. 15 relative to the wheeled actuator are shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B. FIG. 16A depicts a valve with a first aperture 150 and second aperture 152, with aperture 150 being in a closed position. As shown in FIG. 16A, inner 136 gasket is sealed around the valve stem, covering aperture 150. FIG. 16B depicts the valve in the open position. As shown in FIG. 16B, the angle of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the cap, causing it to depress the valve stem. The depression of the stem, pushes the aperture 150 below the level of the inner gasket 136, thereby opening the aperture 150 and allowing content to flow through exit tube 13.

[0089] With a simple or standard valve, the valve hole is small such that it is in effect fully open once the valve is depressed. Thus, in an embodiment, upon depression of the valve to an open position, liquid will flow until the valve becomes closed. In another embodiment, it can be envisaged that the valve can be provided with an elongated or elliptical hole such that initially, as the valve stem moves downwards, only a portion of the hole is exposed. With further downward movement of the valve, greater portion of the hole is exposed and only when the valve is fully depressed is all of the hole exposed. In such circumstances then the depth of depression as well as the time of depression would control how much material is released.

[0090] The amount of dose released is determined by the time the valve is opened and released to expel the contents of the container. This time period is controlled by various factors including, but not limited to, the size of wheeled actuator 2, the number of sides 4 of wheeled actuator 2, and the dimensions of release cap 8, as well as the size of the wheeled switch and the number of sides 6. The size of wheeled actuator 2 is determined by the length of each of the edges 4. To maintain consistent unit dosing, the each of the edges of wheeled actuator 2 has the same length. Accordingly, a wheeled actuator 2 having relatively smaller edges than another wheeled actuator 2 will take a relatively shorter period of time to rotate from edge-to-edge, thereby engaging the valve for a commensurately shorter period of time to release the content.

[0091] The amount of content released per dose is also approximately inversely proportional to the number of edges of wheeled actuator 2, with the fewer number of edges resulting in a greater amount of content being released from the container. The number of edges of the wheeled actuator affects the amount of time required to complete each edge-to-edge turn of the actuator. A longer period of time for rotation that results in longer engagement of the angle with the cap, results in the valve being in the open position longer. Accordingly, a wheeled actuator having a greater number of edges and consequently corners will dispense less content with each edge-to-edge (or corner to corner) rotation than an actuator of about the same diameter having a lesser number of edges (or corners) because the rotation arc and therefore time is shorter (assuming the same rotation speed) from one edge at rest with the cap to be replaced by the next edge to be at rest with the cap (or for one corner engaged with the cap to be replaced by the next corner to engage the cap (and accordingly the engagement with the cap/valve is shorter).

[0092] Another factor affecting the amount of content released per turn of the rotatable assembly 1 is the dimensions of the release cap 8. The height of the release cap relative to the stem 9 of the container can be selected to provide the desired movement of the stem valve and hence control the portion of the hole that is opened with each dose. An example of a release cap according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 14A. In some embodiments, a portion of release cap 8 is cut away, resulting in a reduction of the surface area of the cap that is in contact with wheeled actuator 2. An example of an embodiment of a release cap with a portion of the release cap cut away is shown at FIG. 14B. In some embodiments, the shape of the cut away portion of release cap 8 is square. In some embodiment, the shape of the cut away portion is angled, for example at 30 degrees, 45 degrees, or 60 degrees. An example of an embodiment of a sloped release cap is shown at FIG. 14C. In this case the resting position is when the sloped external face 144 of the cap face is parallel to a edge of a wheel. In other embodiment, the shape of the cut away portion is partially or substantially rectangular or square and also includes a corner at the end furthest from exit tube 10. An example of an embodiment of an angled release cap is shown at FIG. 14D.

[0093] In the embodiment in FIG. 14A, the external surface 8a is flat over a substantial portion of the cap. For reference purposes only this embodiment is designated a standard cap. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 14E, release cap 142 has an increased height (i.e., a "raised cap"). The raised cap external surface 142 comes into contact with a wheeled actuator corner earlier than a standard cap without a raised portion and it provides longer and more extensive contact of the external surface 142a of the cap 142 with the actuator and therefore greater displacement of the valve during dosing. The height of release cap 142 is determined inter alia from the point at which the top of stem 9 is in contact with a bottom surface of release cap 142 (e.g. a part of the channel in the base 142b of the cap). In another embodiment shown in FIG. 14B and D, release caps 144, 146 has an decreased height (i.e., a "low cap"). The low cap external surfaces 144a, 146a come into contact with a wheeled actuator corner later during the rotation than a standard cap and it provides shorter and less extensive contact of the external surface 8a of the cap with the actuator and therefore lesser displacement of the valve during dosing. In FIG. 14D, one corner of the external surface 146a is cut away, and a portion of a wall of the exit tube is cut away, one or both of which can allow or aid a corner to interact with the external surface 146c effectively and in some embodiments to disengage from the cap external surface earlier and or to provide a shorter engagement time. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 14C, the external surface of the release cap 148 increases in height along the length of the upper external surface 148a to merge with the external wall of the exit tube 148c (i.e., a "ramp cap"). In one embodiment the ramp and exit tube can be an ascending relationship. In another embodiment, the ramp and exit tube can be a descending relationship. In a further embodiment the ramp and exit tube can describe different angles or even opposite angles. For example the ramp can be at a steeper angle than the exit tube or the ramp can be ascending whilst the exit tube then descends or the ramp can be descending and the exit tube then ascends. The ramp cap external surface 148a comes into contact with a wheeled actuator corner less, the same or more than a standard cap without a ramp portion depending on its spatial position in relation to the actuator. In an embodiment where the top or highest corner of the ramp cap is at the same level as the external surface of a standard cap the interaction will be shorter and therefore lesser displacement of the valve during dosing. In an embodiment where the lowest corner of the ramp cap is at the same level as the external surface of a standard cap the interaction will be increased and therefore greater displacement of the valve during dosing. In one or more embodiments the ramp is positioned in one of many variations available between these two previous embodiments so as to provide a desired dose. Other variations or modifications of the external surface are also possible for different dosing scenarios. [0094] In one or more embodiments the height of the upper surface of the cap is adapted such that when the device is at rest the upper surface is parallel to an edge of and preferably in resting contact with an edge of the wheeled actuator 2. In each of the above noted embodiments, the side walls and or top wall/external surface of release cap may be shaped to provide a recess to accommodate the rotation of wheeled switch 3.

[0095] The rotation of wheeled actuator 2 is concurrent with the rotation of wheeled switch 3. Thus, wheeled switch 3 is configured to permit a user to press on an exposed side, causing it to rotate to the next side. The rotation of wheeled switch 3 in turn causes wheeled actuator 2 to rotate and engage release cap 8 and actuate the valve. The corners of wheeled switch 3 are in one or more embodiments aligned with those of wheeled actuator 2. For example, in an embodiment, the wheeled actuator has the same number of edges and corners as the wheeled switch. Thus, each corner (and accordingly each side) of the larger wheeled switch is aligned with a corner of the smaller wheeled actuator. Accordingly, a single depression of a side 6 of wheeled switch 3 results in a single edge-to-edge turn of wheeled actuator 2. In other embodiments, wheeled switch 3 has fewer (e.g. half the number of) sides and corners than wheeled actuator 2. Thus, upon rotation of the larger wheeled switch, more than one of the corners 5 of the smaller wheeled actuator engages release cap 8 and causes the valve to be open, thereby dispensing more than one dose of content. The number of sides and angles of wheeled switch 3 is a multiple of the number of sides and angles of wheeled actuator 2 (i.e., 2x, 3x, etc.). For example, in one embodiment, wheeled switch 3 has three sides 6 and wheeled actuator 2 has six edges 4. The corners 7 of wheeled switch 3 are aligned with every other corner 5 of wheeled actuator 2. Thus, on rotation of one of the three edges of the wheeled actuator, two of the six corners of the wheeled switch will engage release cap 8 causing the valve to open and close two times, thus delivering two unit doses of content from the container. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that other configurations are possible for various dosing scenarios.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 1, wheeled switch 3 has six sides and the wheeled actuator 2 has six sides and they are in general alignment. In other embodiments the sides of the wheeled switch and the sides of the wheeled actuator are not generally aligned with a side opposite a side. For example, a corner of the wheeled actuator may be aligned generally opposite a side of the wheeled switch. In other embodiments, the wheeled switch has from three to eight sides and a corresponding number of corners. Thus, in some embodiments, the wheeled switch has three, four, five, six, seven, or eight sides and three, four, five, six, seven, or eight corners. In some embodiments, the sides of wheeled switch 3 are straight. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the sides of wheeled switch 3 are curved, or concave. The curved or concave shape of the sides of wheeled switch 3 provide an ergonomic feel for the user, creating more torque between the user's thumb or finger and the actuator, thereby making it easier to rotate the actuator. In some embodiments the sides of the wheeled switch are notched to improve grip.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 1, wheeled switch 3 is larger than wheeled actuator 2. In some embodiments, wheeled switch 3 is the same size as wheeled actuator 2. In some embodiments the wheeled switch is a single unit, for example as seen in FIGS. 1, 2, 11 and 12. In other embodiments it is a double unit as for example is illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4-8.

[0098] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the dispensing system including release cap 8 and rotatable assembly 1 is contained in a housing 11. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, wheeled switch 3 partially extends from within housing 11 through slot 18. The shape of housing 11 is not particularly critical and can take on any shape. Thus, it can have an ergonometric shape as indicated in FIG. 1, in which the housing has a sloped upper surface containing slot 18 positioned to accommodate a finger, e.g., the thumb, of the used. In other embodiments, the housing is a rounded, oval or square shape. The width of slot 18 is sized to permit, for example, say two sides of switch 3 to extend from within housing 11, resulting in a single corner extending from within the housing for engagement by the user to administer a dose. Thus, the user engages the protruding corner, causing it to rotate to the edge of the housing opening. In this manner, the housing facilitates the delivery of a single dose of content from the container. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that other housing configurations are possible that would fulfill the goals of convenient unit dosing.

[0099] FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of another embodiment in which the applicator includes two wheeled switches 3a and 3b flanking opposing faces of the wheeled actuator 2. the assembly of an embodiment including a single container 12. In FIG. 2, container 12 includes stem 9. In this embodiment, release cap 8 is integrally formed with exit tube 10, which is placed on stem 9. Rotatable assembly 1 is then placed on release cap 8. It can be noted that in the embodiment shown the sides of the release cap 8 are partially cut away at the upper part of the cap. This is to allow for rotation of wheel 3a on one side (visible) and for rotation of wheel 3b on the other side (partially obscured). In this embodiment, rotatable assembly 1 includes two wheeled switches 3a and 3b surrounding first wheeled.. A top-view of the assembled dispensing system is shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 5 depicts the wheeled actuator 2 in alignment with and between two wheeled switches 3a, 3b. The opening 18 in housing 11 for the crossbar that forms the axis for the rotatable assembly is shown at 11a (see FIG. 2). Exit tube 10 is shown in the side view of the assembled apparatus of FIG. 5. FIG. 6 shows an external view of another embodiment of an assembled apparatus, where the crossbar forming the axis for the rotatable assembly is encased within housing 11 and not externally visible.

[0100] FIG. 7 shows an embodiment, such as the embodiment of FIGS. 4-6, with two wheeled switches 3a, 3b flanking wheeled actuator 2 on both sides. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, housing 11 is removed, showing the features of the rotatable assembly 1 and the release cap 8. Housing 11 contains supports for cross bar 14 so that wheel rotation is stabilized. In some embodiments, housing 11 is not required but an alternative support for the cross bar, for example, based on the canister is provided. As shown in FIG. 7, wheeled actuator 2 sits directly on release cap 8, with wheeled switches 3a, 3b positioned on either side of wheeled actuator 2. In this embodiment, release cap 8 is configured to provide a raised center portion, upon which wheeled actuator 2 is seated. The sides adjacent to the center portion are lower (cut away), allowing wheeled switches 3a and 3b, which are larger than 2, to be positioned directly in parallel with wheeled actuator 2 and allowing them to rotate without obstruction. As shown in the side view of FIG. 8, content is release through exit tube 10. In this embodiment, wheeled switches 3a and 3b are in contact with wheeled actuator 2. In other embodiments, the wheeled actuators are separated and not in direct contact.

[0101] FIGS. 2-8 depict the rotatable assembly as having one wheeled actuator located internally with one or two wheeled switches placed on one or both faces of the wheeled actuator. In another embodiment, the wheeled switch is placed in between two wheeled actuators. In a further embodiment, the apparatus includes one wheeled actuator and one wheeled switch.

[0102] In any one of the above described embodiments, the apparatus includes two or more separate containers. The content in each container is different or, alternatively, in some embodiments the content is the same in two or more containers. The dispensing system is configured to provide for simultaneous content release from each of the containers included in the apparatus. FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment with two containers 12a and 12b (with the nearer container being shown in cross-section). As with earlier figures, each container includes a valve, having stem 9, (i.e. 9a and 9b respectively) in fluid communication with a dispensing system. Only the nearside stem 9a is visible in FIG. 9. As shown in FIG. 9, release cap 8 is configured to engage with the valve stems of both containers 12a and 12b simultaneously. In other embodiments each container can have its own independent cap. A wheeled actuator 2 is shown engaging with the release cap and the container 12a. Another wheeled actuator, located on the anterior side of wheeled switch 3, engages with the release cap and container 12b. Accordingly, as a user causes wheeled switch 3 to rotate, both wheeled actuators rotate concurrently, thereby engaging release cap 8, causing the valve to open and content to be released from each container through common exit tube 10, shown in side view of FIG. 10. The common exit tube 10 can also be seen from a frontal angle in FIG 13. In other embodiments the exit tube is separate for each container. Where the exit tubes are separate in certain embodiments the contents of each canister can intermingle either fully or partially at the exits or outside the exit tubes and in other embodiments they can remain separate, depending on the design and orientation of the exit tubes. [0103] In any one of the above described embodiments, the wheeled actuator is configured to engage with each container and the wheeled actuators have the same dimensions, i.e., the same number of sides, the same diameter, and same side length. Accordingly, each side -to-side rotation causes equivalent unit doses of content to be delivered from each container in the multi-container apparatus. In other embodiments, the wheeled actuators have different dimensions with the result that different (i.e., unequal) dose sizes are delivered from each container with each edge- to-edge rotation of the rotatable assembly. In some embodiments, the different dose sizes are the result of wheeled actuators having a different number of edges. For example, the first wheeled actuator is configured to complete two edge-to-edge rotations with each movement of the wheeled switch, while the second wheeled actuator is configured to complete one side-to-side rotation. Accordingly, two doses of content are delivered from the first container while one dose is delivered from the second container. In any one of the above described embodiments, the different dose sizes are achieved by having wheeled actuators with different diameters, having wheeled actuators with different edge lengths, having separate release caps with different heights, and having release caps that are cut out or angled, as described above. In any one of the above described embodiments, the different dose sizes are achieved through a combination of one or more of these features or other features described herein in relation to a single unit wheeled system.

[0104] In any one of the above described embodiments, release cap 8 includes a mixing chamber, facilitating the mixture of the contents of the multiple containers such that the released content is substantially homogenous. FIG. 11 shows an external view of an embodiment containing two containers, such as the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, the containers are housed side- by- side in a lower housing 15. The dispensing system is contained in a housing 11, which is similar to the housing of FIGS. 4-6, except wider to accommodate the additional container. Wheeled switch 3 protrudes externally from housing 11 to enable a user to engage the wheel and dispense content from the containers. The rotatable assembly including the wheeled actuator and the wheeled switch rotate coaxially around crossbar 14. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, crossbar 14 (not visible) does not protrude externally from housing 11, but rather is encompassed by the housing. In some embodiments, where there are two canisters, the mixing chamber in one embodiment may be sufficiently narrow and or small so that the two liquid pressurized formulations remain in or about the same state during mixing in the chamber. For example, the formulations mix whilst they are primarily liquid or where their expansion is relatively limited. In another embodiment the mixing chamber is larger and allows mixing under some expansion of the formulations. In an embodiment the position is somewhere between the previous two embodiments. In a further embodiment mixing can take place at the end of the exit tubes when they join together. In certain embodiments the mixing is aided by one or more rotatable propellers in the chamber, which are driven round by the propellant driven motion of the expelled foam. In other embodiments mixing is achieved by a series of two or more alternating curved paddles alternatively directing a first foam into the path of a second foam and vice versa.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 13, in one multi-container embodiment, content exits the apparatus through a common exit tube 10. In other embodiments, release cap 8 is configured to provide for separate exit tubes for the content from each container. In further multi-container embodiments, the dispensing system is configured to include different release caps to engage with each container separately. In one or more embodiments the common exit tube can receive or be adapted to receive on or more different applicators. In some embodiments, applicators are described in U.S. Patent Application No., 12/204,771 entitled "Device For Delivery OfA Foamable Composition," which is incorporated herein by reference, are used in conjunction with the unit dose apparatus described herein.

Tests, Methods and Examples

Density

[0106] In this procedure, the foam product is dispensed into vessels (including dishes or tubes) of a known volume and weight. Replicate measurements of the mass of foam filling the vessels are made and the density is calculated. The canister and contents are allowed to reach room temperature. Shake the canister to mix the contents and dispense and discard 5-10 mL. Then dispense foam into a pre-weighed tube, filling it until excess is extruded. Immediately remove (level off) excess foam at both ends and weigh the filled tube on the weighing balance.

Viscosity

[0107] Viscosity is measured with Brookfield LVDV-II + PRO with spindle SC4-25 at ambient temperature and 10, 5 and 1 RPM. Viscosity is usually measured at lORPM. However, at about the apparent upper limit for the spindle of ~>50,000CP, the viscosity at IRPM may be measured, although the figures are of a higher magnitude. Unless otherwise stated viscosity of the pre-foam formulation (PFF) is provided. It is not practical to try and measure the viscosity of the foamable formulation with regular propellants since they have to be stored in sealed pressurized canisters or bottles. In order to simulate the viscosity in the foamable formulations with propellant an equivalent weight of pentane (a low volatile hydrocarbon) is added to and mixed with the pre-foam formulation and left overnight. The viscosity is then measured as above.

Foam Quality

[0108] Foam quality can be graded as follows:

Grade E (excellent): very rich and creamy in appearance, does not show any bubble structure or shows a very fine (small) bubble structure; does not rapidly become dull; upon spreading on the skin, the foam retains the creaminess property and does not appear watery.

Grade G (good): rich and creamy in appearance, very small bubble size, "dulls" more rapidly than an excellent foam, retains creaminess upon spreading on the skin, and does not become watery.

Grade FG (fairly good): a moderate amount of creaminess noticeable, bubble structure is noticeable; upon spreading on the skin the product dulls rapidly and becomes somewhat lower in apparent viscosity. Grade F (fair): very little creaminess noticeable, larger bubble structure than a "fairly good" foam, upon spreading on the skin it becomes thin in appearance and watery.

Grade P (poor): no creaminess noticeable, large bubble structure, and when spread on the skin it becomes very thin and watery in appearance.

Grade VP (very poor): dry foam, large very dull bubbles, difficult to spread on the skin.

Example 1 - Preparation of Formulation

[0109] The ingredients are weighed and combined as follows:

1. Mix Propylene Glycol with PEG 400, add Klucel EF at room temperature and mix until homogeneity is obtained

2. Heat to 50-60⁰C, add steareth-2 and mix until homogeneity is obtained.

3. Cool to RT

4. Fill the PFF into canisters, crimp with a suitable valve and pressurize with propellant.

[0110] Physical properties of the formulation were measured and found to be:

Example 2 - Measuring Reproducibility in a simple Single Chamber Device -where the canister has no dip tube.

[0111] The dose reproducibility of the actuator was tested as follows.: 20 g of the above pre foam formulation was introduced into a canister without a dip tube, a valve was crimped and the aerosol was pressurized with propellant. A Prototype Single Chamber Device along the lines illustrated in FIGS 2-8 was mounted on the canister with the actuator in place on the valve. The canister was briefly shaken and the wheeled switch rotated one unit. The expelled foam sample was collected and weighed. The results are shown in Table 1

Table 1

[0112] Comments: As there was no dip tube the device had to be operated upside down, which was less easy to use. Nevertheless, even though the prototype was a rough model and not optimized and was operated upside down more than two thirds of the results gave a desirable range of reproducibility.

Example 3 - Measuring Reproducibility in a simple Single Chamber Device -where the canister has a dip tube.

[0113] The dose reproducibility of the actuator was tested as in Example 1 with two modifications, namely, that the canister was provided with a dip tube, which enabled the unit dose device to be used in an upright position and that the amount of propellant was reduced to 5%. The results are shown in Table 2.

Table 2

Average 0.305 St. Dev 0.115

[0114] Comments: As there was a dip tube the device was operated in an upright position, which was more convenient to use. The reproducibility improved significantly with upright use and even though the prototype was a rough model and not optimized almost three quarters of the results gave a desirable range of reproducibility. [0115] It will be appreciated that the above descriptions and drawings are intended only to serve as examples, and that many other embodiments are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

We claim:

1. An apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container comprising:

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first resting position comprise a first edge of the wheeled actuator in contact with the release assembly and the second actuated position comprises a corner of the wheeled actuator in contact with the release assembly.

3. An apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container comprising:

a rotatable assembly, comprising

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein:

the wheeled actuator comprises a polygon having a plurality of edges and corners, wherein the wheeled actuator is positioned for engagement of the corners with the release assembly for moving the release assembly from a first resting position to a second actuated position; and

the wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and corners, and the predetermined angle is determined by the numbers of the sides and the corners of the wheeled switch.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the wheeled actuator comprises one or more paddles attached to a disk, wherein the paddle is capable of engaging the release assembly for moving the release assembly from a first resting position to a second actuated position.

6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the corner-to-corner diameter of the wheeled switch is larger than the corner-to-corner diameter of the wheeled actuator.

7. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein the release assembly comprises a lower engaged with the valve and an upper surface engaged with the wheeled actuator and wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with an exit tube.

8. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the wheeled actuator has 3 to 8 edges and 3 to 8 angles.

9. The apparatus of claim 4 or 8, wherein the wheeled switch has 3 to 8 sides and 3 to 8 corners.

10. The apparatus of claim 4, 8, or 9, wherein the wheeled actuator has the same number of edges and corners as the wheeled switch has sides and corners.

11. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the number of edges and corners of the wheeled actuator is a fraction of the number of sides and corners of the wheeled switch.

12. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the number of edges and corners of the wheeled actuator is a multiple of the number of sides and corners of the wheeled switch.

13. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein the wheeled actuator (1) comprises two or more wheeled actuators.

14. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein the wheeled actuator (1) comprises two or more wheeled switches.

15. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of the cap is cut away or angled.

16. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a second container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a second content, the second container comprising a second valve in fluid communication with the release assembly.

17. An apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container comprising:

a first container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a first content, the first container comprising a first valve in fluid communication with the first content;

a second container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a second content, the second container comprising a second valve in fluid communication with the second content; a release assembly for releasing content from the container, wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with the first and second valves;

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly comprises:

a first wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and angles,

a second wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and angles, and

a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and angles;

wherein the first wheeled actuator is in flow communication with the first valve;

wherein the second wheeled actuator is in flow communication with the second valve;

wherein, upon rotation about a common axis, the wheeled switch, the first wheeled actuator, and the second wheeled actuator are capable of moving the release assembly from a first position to a second position, thereby actuating the first and second valves and allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from the first container and the second container respectively.

18. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the wheeled switch, the first wheeled actuator and the second wheeled actuator are capable of moving the release assembly by rotating simultaneously from a first position where a first edge of the each of the first and second wheeled actuators is in contact with the release assembly to a second position where a corner of each of the first and second wheeled actuators is in contact with the release assembly.

19. An apparatus for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container comprising:

a first container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a first content, the first container comprising a first valve in fluid communication with the first content; a second container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a second content, the second container comprising a second valve in fluid communication with the second content;

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly comprises:

a wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and angles,

a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and angles;

wherein the wheeled actuator is in contact with the first and second valves;

wherein, upon rotation about a common axis, the wheeled switch and the wheeled actuator are capable of moving the release assembly from a first position to a second position, thereby actuating the first and second valves and allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from the first container and the second container respectively.

20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the wheeled actuator and the wheeled switch are capable of moving the release assembly by rotating simultaneously from a first position where a first edge of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly to a second position where a corner the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly.

21. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the release assembly comprises a mixing chamber.

22. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the release assembly comprises a first cap in contact with the first valve and a second cap in contact with the second valve.

23. A method for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including: (a) providing an apparatus for releasing a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including:

(i) a container (12) capable of housing a pressurized gas and a deliverable content, the container comprising a valve in fluid communication with the deliverable content;

(ii) a release assembly (8) for releasing content from the container, wherein the release assembly is in fluid communication with the valve;

(iii) a rotatable assembly (1), wherein the rotatable assembly comprises a wheeled actuator (3) having a plurality of edges (4) and corners (5), wherein the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly;

(b) rotating the wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from a first position to a second position thereby actuating the valve and allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from the container; and

(c) continuing to rotate the wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from the second position to the first position, thereby actuating the valve to thereby halt content delivery from the container.

24. The method of claim 21, wherein the wheeled actuator moves the release assembly by rotating from a first position where a first edge of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly to a second position where a corner of the wheeled actuator is in contact with the release assembly.

25. A method for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including:

(a) providing an apparatus for releasing a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including: a first container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a first content, the first container comprising a first valve in fluid communication with the first content;

a second container capable of housing a pressurized gas and a second content, the second container comprising a second valve in fluid communication with the second content;

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly comprises:

a first wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and angles,

a second wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and angles, and

a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and angles;

wherein the first wheeled actuator is in contact with the first valve;

wherein the second wheeled actuator is in contact with the second valve;

(b) rotating the first wheeled actuator and the second wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from a first position to a second position thereby actuating the first valve and the second valve, allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from each of the first container and the second container; and

(c) continuing to rotate the first wheeled actuator and the second wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from the second position to the first position, thereby actuating the first and second valves to thereby halt content delivery from the first and second containers.

6. A method for delivering a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including:

(a) providing an apparatus for releasing a predetermined quantity of content from a pressurized container including:

a rotatable assembly, wherein the rotatable assembly comprises:

a wheeled actuator having a plurality of sides and angles,

a wheeled switch having a plurality of sides and angles;

wherein the wheeled actuator is in contact with the first and second valves;

(b) rotating the wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from a first position to a second position thereby actuating the first and second valves and allowing the predetermined quantity of the content to be released from the first and second containers; and

(c) continuing to rotate the wheeled actuator to cause the release assembly to move from the second position to the first position, thereby actuating the first and second valves to thereby halt content delivery from the first and second containers.