WO2023234941A1 - Applicateur pour un récipient - Google Patents

Applicateur pour un récipient Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023234941A1
WO2023234941A1 PCT/US2022/031994 US2022031994W WO2023234941A1 WO 2023234941 A1 WO2023234941 A1 WO 2023234941A1 US 2022031994 W US2022031994 W US 2022031994W WO 2023234941 A1 WO2023234941 A1 WO 2023234941A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
applicator
support structure
container
valve
snap
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2022/031994
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Casey Samangooie
Original Assignee
Casemed Engineering Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Casemed Engineering Llc filed Critical Casemed Engineering Llc
Priority to KR1020227031572A priority Critical patent/KR20230168113A/ko
Priority to EP22826637.5A priority patent/EP4308212A4/fr
Priority to PCT/US2022/031994 priority patent/WO2023234941A1/fr
Priority to GB2300106.8A priority patent/GB2611483B/en
Priority to AU2022204524A priority patent/AU2022204524A1/en
Priority to CA3166202A priority patent/CA3166202A1/fr
Priority to IL299726A priority patent/IL299726A/en
Publication of WO2023234941A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023234941A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M35/00—Devices for applying media, e.g. remedies, on the human body
    • A61M35/003—Portable hand-held applicators having means for dispensing or spreading integral media
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
    • B65D35/24—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices
    • B65D35/40—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices for metering discharge
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
    • A45D34/04—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D34/00—Containers or accessories specially adapted for handling liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. perfumes
    • A45D34/04—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball
    • A45D34/042—Appliances specially adapted for applying liquid, e.g. using roller or ball using a brush or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D40/00—Casings or accessories specially adapted for storing or handling solid or pasty toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. shaving soaps or lipsticks
    • A45D40/24—Casings for two or more cosmetics
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D40/00—Casings or accessories specially adapted for storing or handling solid or pasty toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. shaving soaps or lipsticks
    • A45D40/26—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D40/00—Casings or accessories specially adapted for storing or handling solid or pasty toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. shaving soaps or lipsticks
    • A45D40/26—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball
    • A45D40/262—Appliances specially adapted for applying pasty paint, e.g. using roller, using a ball using a brush or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B11/00—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water
    • A46B11/001—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs
    • A46B11/002—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs pressurised at moment of use manually or by powered means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M35/00—Devices for applying media, e.g. remedies, on the human body
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M35/00—Devices for applying media, e.g. remedies, on the human body
    • A61M35/003—Portable hand-held applicators having means for dispensing or spreading integral media
    • A61M35/006—Portable hand-held applicators having means for dispensing or spreading integral media using sponges, foams, absorbent pads or swabs as spreading means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
    • B65D35/24—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices
    • B65D35/242—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices for mixing or discharging of two or more components
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45D
    • A45D2200/10—Details of applicators
    • A45D2200/1009—Applicators comprising a pad, tissue, sponge, or the like
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
    • B65D35/22—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with two or more compartments
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
    • B65D35/24—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices
    • B65D35/36—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor with auxiliary devices for applying contents to surfaces
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
    • B65D47/42—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices with pads or like contents-applying means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an applicator for a container.
  • the present invention relates to an applicator having a disposable applicator pad installed over a convex surface of a support structure and a user selectable delivery valve disposed on the support structure, wherein the support structure can be attached to a container for dispensing the contents therein through the applicator.
  • Containers for creams, lotions, gels, powders, and any other flowable materials are often sold and stored in containers from which the contents are accessed by a user.
  • containers include without limitation bottles, airless bottles, droppers, jars, collapsible tubes, deodorant containers, lip gloss containers, beauty sticks, lipsticks, compacts, palettes, pumps, and sprayers.
  • Such containers can have a volume that holds may applications of the product stored therein, and consequently the contents can potentially be used by multiple users leading to cross-contamination concerns.
  • the contents of the container could also be industrial or cleaning products such as cleaning fluids, oils, greases, corrosive fluids, and the like.
  • an applicator for a container comprises a support structure, which comprises a first end having a convex surface, one or more lateral surfaces extending away from the first end, a second end opposite to the first end and having an opening into an internal cavity, and one or more longitudinal passages providing fluid communication between the first end and the internal cavity.
  • the support structure is adapted to detachably attach to a container at the second end and is further adapted to detachably attach an applicator pad to the convex surface.
  • an applicator for a container comprises an applicator pad and a support structure, which comprises a first end having a convex surface, one or more lateral surfaces extending away from the first end, a second end opposite to the first end and having an opening into an internal cavity, and one or more longitudinal passages providing fluid communication between the first end and the internal cavity.
  • the support structure is adapted to detachably attach to a container at the second end and is further adapted to detachably attach an applicator pad to the convex surface.
  • an applicator for a container comprises an applicator pad and a support structure, which comprises a first end having a convex surface, one or more lateral surfaces extending away from the first end, a second end opposite to the first end and having an opening into an internal cavity, and one or more longitudinal passages providing fluid communication between the first end and the internal cavity.
  • the support structure is adapted to detachably attach to a container at the second end and is further adapted to detachably attach an applicator pad to the convex surface.
  • the applicator further comprises one or more user selectable valves disposed across the one or more longitudinal passages, wherein each of the one or more user selectable valves has a closed and sealed configuration and an open configuration.
  • a valve tube is disposed through one of the one or more lateral surfaces, the valve tube intersecting the longitudinal passage and having a longitudinal cross-section that extends laterally beyond the longitudinal passage.
  • a valve having a valve shaft is disposed within the valve tube, the valve shaft connected to an actuator portion that extends outside of the valve tube beyond the one or more lateral surfaces.
  • the valve has an open configuration allowing fluid communication through the longitudinal passage and a closed configuration blocking fluid communication through the longitudinal passage.
  • FIG. l is a perspective view of a support structure according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the lines 2-2 in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 A is an exploded perspective view of an applicator according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of an applicator including an adapter according to another embodiment
  • FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary adapter according to an embodiment taken generally along the lines 3C-3C in FIG. 3B;
  • FIG. 3D illustrates a box for containing a plurality of applicator pads according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a support structure and a valve according to an embodiment
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the lines 5-5 in FIG. 4;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a support structure and a valve according to another embodiment
  • FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the lines 7-7 in FIG. 6;
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a support structure and a valve according to yet another embodiment
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the lines 9-9 in FIG. 8;
  • FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the lines 9-9 in FIG. 8 of yet another embodiment of a support structure and a valve;
  • FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a container having two distinct internal volumes for use with an embodiment of an applicator
  • FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 11 taken generally along the lines 12-12 in FIG. 11;
  • FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary support structure according to an embodiment and for use with the container of FIG. 11;
  • FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the support structure of FIG. 13 taken generally along the lines 14-14 in FIG. 13;
  • FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary support structure according to another embodiment and for use with the container of FIG. 11;
  • FIG 16 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary adapter suitable for use with the container of FIG. 11 according to another embodiment.
  • FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the adapter of FIG. 16 taken generally along the lines 17-17 in FIG. 16.
  • Specific materials for embodiments that can be utilized for any portion or component of or for all of the applicator include, for example without limitation, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, miscellaneous plastics such as polycarbonate, polyactide, acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene, styrene, fiberglass, and nylon.
  • Other materials that can be utilized for any portion or component of or for all of the applicator include, for example without limitation, aluminum, stainless steel, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).
  • any or all of the components of the applicator can be made, for example without limitation, by injection molding. Parts made of aluminum or stainless steel could also be made by molding, casting, or injection as is known in the art. In an embodiment, any or all of the components of the applicator can further be made from natural or synthetic fibers, and can be sustainable, compostable, and/or biodegradable, and can be made from or coated with anti-microbial materials.
  • FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 taken generally along the lines 2-2 in FIG. 1, in an embodiment a support structure 110 is schematically illustrated as having a longitudinal axis 120.
  • a first end 130 of the support structure 110 has a convex surface 140.
  • one or more lateral surfaces 150 extend away from the first end 130.
  • the support structure 110 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is illustrated to be cylindrical so that there is only one circumferentially extending lateral surface 150.
  • the support structure 110 can have other cross-sectional shapes in other embodiments so that there can be, for example, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • a second end 160 opposite to the first end 130 has an opening 170 into an internal cavity 180.
  • a longitudinal passage 190 provides fluid communication between the first end 130 and the internal cavity 180.
  • the longitudinal passage 190 includes a one-way valve 195, for example without limitation, a flapper valve 195 or a check valve 195.
  • the one-way valve 195 allows flow out of the support structure 110 (upwardly in FIG. 2), but prevents back flow (downwardly in FIG. 2) of the contents and also prevents external debris from getting into the internal cavity 180.
  • FIGS. 3 A and 3B illustrate two embodiments of the applicator 100 in an exploded state.
  • a container 115 is illustrated in FIGS. 3 A and 3B to be a collapsible tube; however, the container 115 can be any sort of container of any size, for example without limitation as listed in the background section above, the container 115 having an opening 117 over which the applicator 100 is detachably attachable.
  • the support structure 110 is adapted to directly attach to the container 115 at the second end 170.
  • threads 200 schematically illustrated in FIG. 2 cooperate with threads 200 on the container 115 to detachably attach the support structure 110 directly to the container 115.
  • the support structure 110 attaches to the container 115 via a snap-fit connection including one or more recesses disposed on the support structure 110, a snap-fit connection including one or more protrusions extending from the support structure 110, a press-fit, a bayonet slot and pin (push and turn) connection, and combinations thereof, or by other mechanisms for attachment as are known in the art, wherein any of the above listed mechanisms for attachment can further include one or more sealing rings or gaskets disposed between the support structure 110 and the opening 117 of the container 115 to provide a seal therebetween.
  • the bayonet slot and pin connection comprises an L-shaped slot with a bump or catch on one mating surface and a pin extending from the other mating surface, wherein the L-shaped slot is pushed down over the pin and rotated until the pin catches in the bump or catch.
  • a bayonet slot and pin (or push and turn) connection mechanism is well known in the art and need not be described further.
  • the support structure 110 is adapted to attach to the container 115 via an adapter 125, which is shown in cross-section in FIG. 3C having a longitudinal axis 133, which aligns with the longitudinal axis 120 when the support structure 110 is attached to the adapter 125.
  • an adapter 125 which is shown in cross-section in FIG. 3C having a longitudinal axis 133, which aligns with the longitudinal axis 120 when the support structure 110 is attached to the adapter 125.
  • threads 200 schematically illustrated on the support structure 110 in FIG. 2 cooperate with threads 127 on the adapter 125 to detachably attach the support structure 110 to the adapter 125.
  • the adapter 125 includes threads 129 that detachably attach the adapter 125 to the container 115.
  • the support structure 110 attaches to the adapter 125 and the adapter 125 attaches to the container 115 via a snap-fit connection including one or more recesses disposed on the support structure 110 or the adapter 125, a snap-fit connection including one or more protrusions extending from the support structure 110 or the adapter 125, a press-fit, a bayonet slot and pin (push and turn) connection, and combinations thereof, or by other mechanisms for attachment as are known in the art, wherein any of the above listed mechanisms for attachment can further include one or more sealing rings or gaskets disposed between the support structure 110 and the adapter 125 or between the adapter 125 and the opening 117 of the container 115 to provide a seal therebetween.
  • the adapter 125 can be sized to fit on any sized container 115.
  • the adapter 125 can comprise a set of different sized adapters 125 to allow the applicator 100 to be detachably connectable to a container 115 having any sized opening 117.
  • the support structure 110 is adapted to attach a pad holder ring 230 to the one or more lateral surfaces 150 proximate to the first end 130.
  • a pad holder ring 230 disposed on the one or more lateral surfaces 150 proximate to the first end 130 cooperate with complementary inwardly directed protrusions 232 that snap into the one or more recesses 210 to detachably attach the pad holder ring 230 to the support structure 110.
  • the pad holder ring 230 detachably attaches to the support structure 110 via a snap-fit connection including one or more protrusions extending from the support structure, a snap-fit connection including one or more grooves extending into the support structure, a press-fit, a bayonet slot and pin (push and turn) connection, threads, and combinations thereof, or by other mechanisms for attachment as are known in the art.
  • a snap-fit connection including one or more protrusions extending from the support structure
  • a snap-fit connection including one or more grooves extending into the support structure
  • a press-fit a bayonet slot and pin (push and turn) connection
  • threads, and combinations thereof or by other mechanisms for attachment as are known in the art.
  • FIG. 3 A an embodiment of an applicator 100 is illustrated in an exploded disassembled view including the support structure 110, an applicator pad 220, the pad holder ring 230, and a cover or cap 240 that detachably attaches to the support
  • the cover cap 240 covers the applicator pad 220 when the applicator 100 is not in use.
  • FIG. 3B illustrates an embodiment of an applicator 100 further comprising the adapter 125 as described hereinabove.
  • the cap or cover 240 detachably attaches over the support structure 110 by a press-fit; however, in other embodiments, the cap or cover 240 detachably attaches over the support structure 110 via threads, a snap-fit connection including one or more recesses disposed on the support structure, a snap-fit connection including one or more protrusions extending from the support structure, a bayonet slot and pin (push and turn) connection, or combinations thereof.
  • FIGS. 3 A and 3B also illustrate an embodiment of a valve 250 including a valve shaft 252, an actuator portion 254, and a spring 260.
  • valves 250, 350, 450, 550
  • the valve can have any suitable structure for being operable by a user from outside the support structure 110 and for opening and sealing the longitudinal passage 190.
  • the pad holder ring 230 detachably attaches to the support structure 110 to secure the applicator pad 220 over the convex surface 140 of the support structure 110.
  • This detachable attachment allows the applicator pad 220 to be removed and replaced with each use.
  • the applicator pad 220 is therefore disposable.
  • the applicator pad 220 detachably attaches to the convex surface 140 of the support structure 110 via a hook and loop attachment, wherein for example, a facing surface of the applicator pad 220 has either hooks or loops and the convex surface 140 has the complementary structure, loops or hooks, respectively.
  • the applicator pad 220 can also attach to the convex surface 140 via an adhesive or via other mechanisms for attachment as are known in the art.
  • a kit for the applicator 100 contains the applicator 100, a plurality of additional applicator pads 220, and a storage case or box 222 for storing the plurality of additional applicator pads 220 therein.
  • the box 222 includes a lid 223 that can detachably attach to close the box 222 by any suitable mechanism of attachment as is known in the art.
  • the applicator pad 220 is made of a porous material through which the flowable contents of the container 115 may pass for application by a user, for example without limitation, the porous material can be a fabric, a foam, a sponge, or the like.
  • the applicator pad 220 can be made from silicone or plastic having a plurality of ports disposed therethrough.
  • the applicator pad 220 regardless of the material from which it is made, can be smooth and/or can include exfoliating bumps 222 (see FIG. 3B) and/or linear or curvilinear ridges 224 (see FIG. 3 A).
  • the support structure 190 includes a valve tube 270 disposed through one of the one or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • the valve tube 270 intersects with the longitudinal passage 190 and has a longitudinal cross-section that extends laterally beyond the longitudinal passage 190. This geometry assures that blockage of the valve tube 270 (for example, by a portion of a valve shaft 252, 352, 452, 552) along the longitudinal axis 120 also blocks the longitudinal passage 190.
  • the valve 250 for example, a pushbutton valve 250, includes a valve shaft 252 disposed within the valve tube 270, the valve shaft 252 connected to an actuator portion 254 that extends outside of the valve tube 270 beyond the one or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • the actuator portion 254 includes a position indicator 255 that is indicative of whether the valve 250 is in an open or closed position.
  • the position indicator 255 in an embodiment, for example without limitation, is an arrow or other marking that is visible on the actuator portion 254 when the valve 250 is closed (as shown in FIG. 5) but that is not visible when the valve 250 is open, which as will be seen is when the actuator portion 254 is at least partially pushed into the support structure 190.
  • the valve tube 270 further comprises a non-sealing portion 272 proximate the one of the one or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • a sealing portion 274 extends from an innermost portion of the non-sealing portion 272 beyond a side of the longitudinal passage 190 opposite the non-sealing portion 272.
  • the sealing portion 274 has a longitudinal cross-section that is smaller than the longitudinal cross-section of the non-sealing portion 272.
  • the applicator 100 further comprises the spring 260 disposed within the non-sealing portion 272 of the valve tube 270.
  • the valve shaft 252 comprises first and second portions 262, 264 that when disposed within the valve tube 270 form a seal with the sealing portion 274 of the valve tube 270, and a third portion 266 disposed between the first and second portions 262, 264 that when disposed within the valve tube 270 has a longitudinal cross-section that is smaller than the longitudinal cross-section of the sealing portion 274 of the valve tube 270.
  • the valve 250 has a closed configuration as shown in FIG. 5 wherein the valve shaft 252 is biased by the spring 260 so that the third portion 266 does not longitudinally overlap with the longitudinal passage 190.
  • valve 250 When a force is applied to the actuator portion 254 against the bias of the spring 260, the valve shaft 252 can be pushed to the right in FIG. 5. Therefore, the valve 250 has an open configuration wherein the spring 260 is compressed so that the third portion 266 longitudinally overlaps with the longitudinal passage 190.
  • the spring 260 is made of metal, for example without limitation, stainless steel or aluminum.
  • the spring 260 is made of any of the materials listed hereinabove, for example without limitation, a plastic, which has a natural lubricity and reduced fabrication costs when compared to a metal spring.
  • a plastic spring 260 could also be molded in different colors as desired and further can have excellent corrosion resistance for use with possibly corrosive contents.
  • a valve 350 includes a valve shaft 352 disposed within the valve tube 270, the valve shaft 352 connected to an actuator portion 354 that extends outside of the valve tube 270 beyond the one or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • the valve shaft 352 comprises a threaded portion 356 that engages with internal threads 357 that extend part way into the valve tube 270, and a sealing portion 358 extending from an end of the threaded portion 356.
  • the valve 350 has a closed configuration as shown in FIG 7 wherein the sealing portion 358 extends entirely over the longitudinal passage 190.
  • the valve 350 also has an open configuration achieved by unscrewing the threaded portion 356 part way out of the valve tube 270 until the sealing portion 358 does not extend entirely over the longitudinal passage 190, thereby allowing contents to flow around an end of the valve shaft 352.
  • a valve 450 for example, a twist-knob valve 450, includes a valve shaft 452 disposed within the valve tube 270, the valve shaft 452 connected to an actuator portion 454 that extends outside of the valve tube 270 beyond the one or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • first and second portions 462, 464 of the valve shaft 452 when disposed within the valve tube 270 form a seal with the valve tube 270.
  • a third portion 466 of the valve shaft 452 includes an un-recessed surface 467 that when disposed within the valve tube 270 forms a seal with the valve tube 270 and one or more recessed surfaces 468 disposed into the valve shaft 452.
  • the third portion 466 aligns with the longitudinal passage 190 when the valve shaft 452 is disposed within the valve tube 270.
  • the valve 450 has a closed configuration as shown in FIG. 9 wherein the valve shaft 452 is rotationally positioned so that the un-recessed surface 467 of the third portion 466 blocks fluid communication through the longitudinal passage 190.
  • the valve 450 has an open configuration wherein the valve shaft 452 is rotationally positioned so that the un-recessed surface 467 of the third portion 466 does not entirely block fluid communication through the longitudinal passage 190.
  • a valve 550 for example, a twist-knob valve 550, includes a valve shaft 552 disposed within the valve tube 270, the valve shaft 552 connected to an actuator portion 554 that extends outside of the valve tube 270 beyond the one or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • the valve shaft 552 includes a hole 566 disposed entirely therethrough so that the valve 550 has a closed configuration as shown in FIG. 10 wherein the valve shaft 552 is rotationally positioned so that the valve shaft 552 blocks fluid communication through the longitudinal passage 190.
  • the valve 550 has an open configuration wherein the valve shaft 552 is rotationally positioned so that the hole 566 allows fluid communication through the longitudinal passage 190.
  • the applicator 100 can be applied over a container 215 having two or more distinct internal cavities, for example, cavities A and B disposed on opposite sides of an internal divider 116 disposed along a longitudinal axis 600 as illustrated in FIG. 12.
  • a container having the internal cavities A and B also has an opening 117A into cavity A and an opening 117B into cavity B.
  • a support structure 111 in this embodiment includes longitudinal passages 190A and 190B, each having a valve 650 disposed within a valve tube 271 and the one-way valve 195 as described above.
  • each of the valves 650 includes a valve shaft 652 disposed within the valve tube 271, the valve shaft 652 connected to an actuator portion 654 that extends outside of the valve tube 271 beyond the one or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • each valve shaft 652 includes a hole 666.
  • the valves 650 are illustrated to be the same kind of valve as the valve 550 in FIG.
  • valves 650 can be any sort of valve as may be known in the art for opening or blocking fluid communication through the longitudinal passages 190A and 190B, not limited to the valves 250, 350, 450, and 550 also described hereinabove.
  • the two valves 650 are replaced with a single valve 750 that can operate across both of the longitudinal passages 190A and 190B, either individually controlling fluid communication through each separately or both together.
  • the support structure 112 includes a single valve tube 272, and the valve 750 includes a valve shaft 752 disposed within the valve tube 272.
  • the valve 750 includes the valve shaft 752 connected to an actuator portion 754 that extends outside of the valve tube 272 beyond the one or more lateral surfaces 150.
  • the valve 750 illustrated in FIG. 15 further includes a first through hole 766A aligned with the longitudinal passage 190A and a second through hole 766B aligned with the longitudinal passage 190B. Therefore, in this embodiment the valve 750 upon being rotated controls the flow through both of the longitudinal passages 190A and 190B simultaneously.
  • a sealing ring or gasket 670 is included having a structure that matches an open end of the container 215.
  • the gasket 670 is attached inside the internal cavity 180 as illustrated so that when the applicator 100 is detachably attached to the container 215 the structure of the gasket 670 is aligned with and makes contact with the outer walls and the internal divider 116 of the cavities A and B as is further described hereinbelow.
  • the gasket 670 is compressed between the support structure 111, 112 and the container 215 to form a seal.
  • the gasket 670 can be attached over an end of the container 215 so that the structure of the gasket 670 lines up with the outer walls and the internal divider 116 of the cavities A and B before the support structure 111, 112 is detachably attached to the container 215.
  • the support structure 111, 112 is adapted to attach to the container 215 via an adapter 225.
  • the adapter 225 can be sized to fit on any sized container 215.
  • the adapter 225 can comprise a set of different sized adapters 225 to allow the applicator 100 to be detachably connectable to a container 215 having any sized opening 117.
  • the adapter 225 has an internal cross-sectional structure, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, that matches the open end of the container 215 and the gasket 670.
  • the adapter 225 includes an internal divider 216 and an adapter gasket 671.
  • the adapter gasket 671 is attached inside the adapter 225 as illustrated so that when the adapter 225 is detachably attached to the container 215 the structure of the adapter gasket 671 is aligned with and makes contact with the outer walls and the internal divider 116 of the cavities A and B. Upon attachment of the adapter 225 to the container 215, the adapter gasket 671 is compressed between the adapter 225 and the container 215 to form a seal.
  • the adapter gasket 671 can be attached over an end of the container 215 so that the structure of the adapter gasket 671 lines up with the outer walls and the internal divider 116 of the cavities A and B before the adapter 225 is detachably attached to the container 215.
  • the adapter 225 has a longitudinal axis 233, which aligns with the longitudinal axis 120 when the support structure 111, 112 is attached to the adapter 225.
  • threads 227 schematically illustrated on the adapter 225 in FIG. 16 cooperate with threads 200 on the support structure 111, 112 to detachably attach the adapter 225 to the support structure 111, 112.
  • the adapter 225 includes threads 229 that detachably attach the adapter 225 to the container 215.
  • the support structure 111, 112 attaches to the adapter 225 and the adapter 225 attaches to the container 215 via a snap-fit connection including one or more recesses disposed on the support structure 111, 112 or the adapter 225, a snap-fit connection including one or more protrusions extending from the support structure 111, 112 or the adapter 225, a press-fit, a bayonet slot and pin (push and turn) connection, and combinations thereof, or by other mechanisms for attachment as are known in the art.
  • the support structure 111, 112 includes an alignment feature.
  • the adapter 225 also includes an alignment feature to assure proper alignment of the internal divider 216 with the gasket 670 as well as alignment of the adapter gasket 671 with the internal divider 116.
  • the alignment feature can be different in different embodiments and can further be dependent upon the type of attachment mechanism being utilized between components.
  • the alignment feature 673 comprises a ridge, groove, visible marking, or other visible structure 673 disposed on the one or more lateral surfaces 150 (see FIG. 14).
  • the alignment feature 673 would be lined up with a corresponding feature of the container 215 or alternatively with a side or edge of the container so that the alignment of the gasket 670 matches the alignment of the internal divider 116.
  • the alignment feature is incorporated into the attachment mechanism by positioning the bayonet slot and pin (push and turn) connection such that attachment of the support structure 111, 112 automatically results in an alignment of the gasket 670 with the internal divider 116.
  • the alignment feature is a stop or restriction 201 (see FIGS.
  • the alignment feature 673 again comprises a ridge, groove, visible marking, or other visible structure 673 disposed on the one or more lateral surfaces 150 (see FIG. 14) that is lined up with a corresponding alignment feature 674 (which is schematically shown in FIG. 16 rotated by 90 degrees around the adapter 225 relative to FIG. 17 to make it visible) having the same or similar structure as alignment feature 673.
  • the alignment feature 673 would be lined up with the alignment feature 674 upon connection of the support structure 111, 112 to the adapter 225, and the alignment feature 674 would be lined up to a corresponding feature of the container 215 or alternatively with a side or edge of the container so that the alignment of the gasket 670 matches the alignment of the internal divider 216 and the alignment of the adapter gasket 671 matches the alignment of the internal divider 116.
  • the alignment features are incorporated into the attachment mechanisms by positioning the bayonet slot and pin (push and turn) connection such that attachment of the support structure 111, 112 automatically results in an alignment of the gasket 670 with the internal divider 216 and such that attachment of the adapter 225 automatically results in an alignment of the adapter gasket 671 with the internal divider 116.
  • the alignment features are a stop or restriction 201 (see FIGS.
  • the stop 201 is disposed in a position relative to the gasket 670 such that that a fully threaded attachment of the support structure 111, 112 limited by the top 201 automatically results in an alignment of the gasket 670 with the internal divider 216.
  • the stop 202 is disposed in a position relative to the gasket 671 such that that a fully threaded attachment of the support structure 111, 112 limited by the top 202 automatically results in an alignment of the adapter gasket 671 with the internal divider 116.
  • each connection is aligned as described above for the particular type of connection used to assure a seal of the internal cavities A and B.
  • other suitable mechanisms for alignment of the internal sealing structures within the support structure 111, 112, the adapter 225, and the container 215 are utilized as are known in the art.
  • the container 215 has three, four, or more distinct internal cavities separated by multiple internal dividers 116 and a corresponding support structure 111, 112 for detachable attachment thereto includes a corresponding number of longitudinal passages, valves, and a gasket 670 shaped to align with and seal against the multiple internal dividers 116 and outer walls of the distinct internal cavities, and a corresponding adapter 225 for detachable attachment therebetween includes an adapter gasket 671 shaped to align with and seal against the multiple internal dividers 116 and outer walls of the distinct internal cavities.
  • An applicator for a container includes a support structure having a convex surface for the detachable attachment of a disposable applicator pad.
  • the applicator includes a user selectable sealing valve and can be sold with a plurality of additional applicator pads for quick and convenient replacement by a user.
  • the applicator can be made in industry for use by consumers.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Anesthesiology (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Hematology (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
  • Coating Apparatus (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)

Abstract

Un applicateur pour un récipient comprenant une structure de support, qui comprend une première extrémité ayant une surface convexe, une ou plusieurs surfaces latérales s'étendant à l'opposé de la première extrémité, une seconde extrémité opposée à la première extrémité et ayant une ouverture dans une cavité interne, et un ou plusieurs passages longitudinaux fournissant une communication fluidique entre la première extrémité et la cavité interne. La structure de support est conçue pour se fixer de manière amovible à un récipient au niveau de la seconde extrémité et est en outre conçue pour fixer de manière amovible un tampon applicateur à la surface convexe.
PCT/US2022/031994 2022-06-02 2022-06-02 Applicateur pour un récipient WO2023234941A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
KR1020227031572A KR20230168113A (ko) 2022-06-02 2022-06-02 컨테이너용 어플리케이터
EP22826637.5A EP4308212A4 (fr) 2022-06-02 2022-06-02 Applicateur pour un récipient
PCT/US2022/031994 WO2023234941A1 (fr) 2022-06-02 2022-06-02 Applicateur pour un récipient
GB2300106.8A GB2611483B (en) 2022-06-02 2022-06-02 Applicator for a container
AU2022204524A AU2022204524A1 (en) 2022-06-02 2022-06-02 Applicator for a container
CA3166202A CA3166202A1 (fr) 2022-06-02 2022-06-30 Applicateur pour un contenant
IL299726A IL299726A (en) 2022-06-02 2023-01-05 Container application facility

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2022/031994 WO2023234941A1 (fr) 2022-06-02 2022-06-02 Applicateur pour un récipient

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023234941A1 true WO2023234941A1 (fr) 2023-12-07

Family

ID=85174431

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2022/031994 WO2023234941A1 (fr) 2022-06-02 2022-06-02 Applicateur pour un récipient

Country Status (6)

Country Link
EP (1) EP4308212A4 (fr)
KR (1) KR20230168113A (fr)
AU (1) AU2022204524A1 (fr)
GB (1) GB2611483B (fr)
IL (1) IL299726A (fr)
WO (1) WO2023234941A1 (fr)

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2185575A (en) * 1938-03-28 1940-01-02 Michigan Metalcraft Company Dispensing can for cleaning liquid
US4526294A (en) * 1982-02-22 1985-07-02 Glasgeratebau Hirschmann Dispenser for dispensing liquids in controlled quantities from a bottle
US6688795B1 (en) * 2002-11-06 2004-02-10 E-L Management Corp. Applicator package with disposable applicator pad assembly
US6840694B2 (en) * 2001-02-13 2005-01-11 L'oreal S.A. Applicator assembly, system and method
US20080163887A1 (en) * 2002-12-12 2008-07-10 Cosmogen Powder applicator for cosmetic use
US10918187B2 (en) * 2016-07-20 2021-02-16 Zen Design Solutions Limited Cosmetic case

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2048689A (en) * 1934-06-22 1936-07-28 Harry L Feasel Cleaning device
US2742660A (en) * 1953-01-29 1956-04-24 Theodore Van Esley Polish applicator
US2924837A (en) * 1957-06-13 1960-02-16 Sterling Plastics Co Moistener
US3046593A (en) * 1959-07-07 1962-07-31 Norman L Goldman Applicator
US4133614A (en) * 1976-07-23 1979-01-09 The Procter & Gamble Company Dauber and method of assembly
US5894927A (en) * 1997-06-09 1999-04-20 Chesebrough-Pond's Usa Co., Division Of Conopco, Inc. Dispenser for applicator pads
US6045279A (en) * 1999-04-29 2000-04-04 Follis; Jake Todd Easy reach lotion applicator
FR2858971B1 (fr) * 2003-08-20 2007-05-25 Oreal Dispositif de conditionnement comportant une pluralite d'applicateurs et un support comportant des intercalaires s'etendant entre les applicateurs
KR200488529Y1 (ko) * 2018-05-29 2019-02-15 주식회사 이노코아 항균층이 코팅된 화장용 퍼프
US11324302B1 (en) * 2021-02-24 2022-05-10 Brushi LLC Container with integrated dispenser and applicator

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2185575A (en) * 1938-03-28 1940-01-02 Michigan Metalcraft Company Dispensing can for cleaning liquid
US4526294A (en) * 1982-02-22 1985-07-02 Glasgeratebau Hirschmann Dispenser for dispensing liquids in controlled quantities from a bottle
US6840694B2 (en) * 2001-02-13 2005-01-11 L'oreal S.A. Applicator assembly, system and method
US6688795B1 (en) * 2002-11-06 2004-02-10 E-L Management Corp. Applicator package with disposable applicator pad assembly
US20080163887A1 (en) * 2002-12-12 2008-07-10 Cosmogen Powder applicator for cosmetic use
US10918187B2 (en) * 2016-07-20 2021-02-16 Zen Design Solutions Limited Cosmetic case

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of EP4308212A4 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU2022204524A1 (en) 2023-12-21
KR20230168113A (ko) 2023-12-12
GB202300106D0 (en) 2023-02-15
GB2611483B (en) 2024-01-24
EP4308212A4 (fr) 2024-04-03
GB2611483A (en) 2023-04-05
IL299726A (en) 2023-03-01
EP4308212A1 (fr) 2024-01-24

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