U.S. patent application number 10/181876 was filed with the patent office on 2003-11-06 for spray dispenser.
Invention is credited to Yahav, Shimon.
Application Number | 20030205580 10/181876 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 11073750 |
Filed Date | 2003-11-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030205580 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yahav, Shimon |
November 6, 2003 |
Spray dispenser
Abstract
This invention is an apparatus (10) for spraying contents of a
spray container (16), including a dispenser body (12) sealingly
attachable to the container containing a fluid (18), a fluid outlet
(20) formed in the dispenser body and a deformable element (56)
generally freely (51) supported around a perimeter thereof in the
dispenser body, the deformable element having a first orientation
(FIG. 1A) when in a reference temperature range and reversibly
deforming to a second orientation (FIG. 1B) when out of the
reference temperature range, wherein in the first orientation the
deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from
the container and in the second orientation of the deformable
element is operative to allow a passage of the fluid from the
container. A method of dispensing a fluid from a container is also
disclosed.
Inventors: |
Yahav, Shimon; (Rehovot,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LADAS & PARRY
26 WEST 61ST STREET
NEW YORK
NY
10023
US
|
Family ID: |
11073750 |
Appl. No.: |
10/181876 |
Filed: |
October 10, 2002 |
PCT Filed: |
January 24, 2001 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IL01/00068 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
222/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2213/00 20130101;
B65D 83/48 20130101; B65D 83/265 20130101; B65D 83/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/1 |
International
Class: |
B67B 007/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 25, 2000 |
IL |
134219 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. Apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container,
comprising: a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container
containing a fluid; a fluid outlet formed in said dispenser body;
and a deformable element generally freely supported around a
perimeter thereof in said dispenser body, said deformable element
having a first orientation when in a reference temperature range
and reversibly deforming to a second orientation when out of said
reference temperature range, wherein in said first orientation said
deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from
the container and in said second orientation said deformable
element is operative to allow passage of the fluid from the
container.
2. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said deformable element
is generally circular.
3. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said deformable element
is generally rectangular.
4. Apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising a container
containing a fluid, said dispenser body being sealingly attached to
said container.
5. Apparatus according to claim 4 wherein in said second position
said fluid flows towards and contacts said deformable element,
wherein heat is transferred between said fluid and said deformable
element so as to bring said deformable element into said reference
temperature range, such that said deformable element deforms from
said second orientation to said first orientation.
6. Apparatus according to claim 4 wherein said fluid contacts said
deformable element on a surface of said deformable element which
faces said container.
7. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said fluid contacts said
deformable element on a surface of said deformable element which
does not face said container.
8. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said fluid contacts said
deformable element both on a surface of said deformable element
which faces said container and on a surface of said deformable
element which does not face said container.
9. Apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising a plunger
arranged for sliding motion in said dispenser body between a first
position and a second position.
10. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said plunger is attached
to said deformable element.
11. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said deformable element
comprises a bimetallic element.
12. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said deformable element
comprises a shape memory alloy element.
13. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said dispenser body
comprises thermal insulation for thermally insulating said
deformable element from an outside environment.
14. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said dispenser body is
formed with an expansion chamber, and when said deformable element
is in said second orientation, said fluid flows into said expansion
chamber and expands therein.
15. Apparatus according to claim 14 wherein said expansion chamber
is positioned on one side of said deformable element.
16. Apparatus according to claim 14 wherein said expansion chamber
is positioned on two sides of said deformable element.
17. Apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising a safety
spray valve in fluid communication with said fluid outlet which is
operative to substantially prevent flow of said fluid through said
fluid outlet.
18. Apparatus according to claim 17 wherein said safety spray valve
comprises a stopper slidingly disposed in a bore formed in said
dispenser body, said bore allowing fluid to flow from a container
to said fluid outlet, wherein said stopper is adapted to slide
towards an end of said bore, and be substantially sealingly
retained thereat, by a force of pressurized contents of the
container.
19. Apparatus according to claim 17 wherein said safety spray valve
comprises a one-way valve that substantially prevents matter from
flowing in a direction from said deformable element back into the
container.
20. Apparatus according to claim 19 wherein said one-way valve
comprises a ball disposed in a bore formed in said dispenser body,
said ball not interfering with flow of fluid from the container
towards said deformable element, but substantially preventing flow
of fluid backwards towards the container.
21. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims wherein said
spray valve is in fluid communication with contents of a spray
container, said contents comprising a first substance, and a second
substance which comprises at least one of a liquid portion and a
gaseous portion, said spray valve further comprising a tube with a
lower open end in fluid communication with said first substance,
said tube being formed with at least one side aperture in fluid
communication with said second substance.
22. Apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said at least one side
aperture is in fluid communication with said liquid portion.
23. Apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said at least one side
aperture is in fluid communication with said gaseous portion.
24. Apparatus according to any of claims 21-23 wherein when said
spray valve dispenses said contents, an internal pressure of said
container forces said first substance into said open end, and as
said first substance rises in said tube, said second substance can
enter said at least one side aperture and mix with said first
substance, prior to said contents being sprayed.
25. Apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container,
comprising: a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container
containing a fluid; an expansion chamber formed in said dispenser
body; a fluid outlet formed in said dispenser body; and a generally
rectangular deformable element disposed in said expansion chamber,
said deformable element having a first orientation when in a
reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second
orientation when out of said reference temperature range, wherein
in said first orientation said deformable element is operative to
block passage of the fluid from the container and in said second
orientation said deformable element is operative to allow passage
of the fluid from the container, and when said deformable element
is in said second orientation, said fluid flows into said expansion
chamber and expands therein.
26. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said deformable element
is generally freely supported in said expansion chamber in said
first orientation, wherein as said deformable element snaps from
said first orientation to said second orientation, ends of said
deformable element move and abut against inner surfaces of said
expansion chamber, said ends of said deformable element being
separated by a gap from the inner surfaces of said expansion
chamber and freely supported in said expansion chamber when said
deformable element has snapped to said second orientation.
27. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein two ends of said
deformable element are clamped in said expansion chamber.
28. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said deformable element
is clamped generally around its perimeter in said expansion
chamber.
29. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said deformable element
comprises a bimetallic element.
30. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said deformable element
comprises a shape memory alloy element.
31. Apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container,
comprising: a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container
containing a fluid; a fluid outlet formed in said dispenser body; a
spray nozzle in fluid communication with said dispenser body
operative to spray said fluid from the container; and a safety
valve operative to substantially prevent flow of said fluid through
said spray nozzle even if said spray nozzle malfunctions.
32. Apparatus according to claim 31 wherein said safety spray valve
comprises a stopper slidingly disposed in a bore formed in said
dispenser body, said bore allowing fluid to flow from a container
to said fluid outlet, wherein said stopper is adapted to slide
towards an end of said bore, and be substantially sealingly
retained thereat, by a force of pressurized contents of the
container.
33. Apparatus according to claim 31 wherein said safety spray valve
comprises a one-way valve that substantially prevents matter from
flowing in a direction from said deformable element back into the
container.
34. Apparatus according to claim 33 wherein said one-way valve
comprises a ball disposed in a bore formed in said dispenser body,
said ball not interfering with flow of fluid from the container
towards said deformable element, but substantially preventing flow
of fluid backwards towards the container.
35. Apparatus according to any of claims 31-34 wherein said spray
valve is in fluid communication with contents of a spray container,
said contents comprising a first substance, and a second substance
which comprises at least one of a liquid portion and a gaseous
portion, said spray valve further comprising a tube with a lower
open end in fluid communication with said first substance, said
tube being formed with at least one side aperture in fluid
communication with said second substance.
36. Apparatus according to claim 35 wherein said at least one side
aperture is in fluid communication with said liquid portion.
37. Apparatus according to claim 35 wherein said at least one side
aperture is in fluid communication with said gaseous portion.
38. Apparatus according to any of claims 35-37 wherein when said
spray valve dispenses said contents, an internal pressure of said
container forces said first substance into said open end, and as
said first substance rises in said tube, said second substance can
enter said at least one side aperture and mix with said first
substance, prior to said contents being sprayed.
39. Apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, said
contents comprising a first substance, and a second substance which
comprises at least one of a liquid portion and a gaseous portion,
said apparatus comprising: a tube with a lower open end in fluid
communication with said first substance, said tube being formed
with at least one side aperture in fluid communication with said
second substance.
40. Apparatus according to claim 39 wherein said first substance is
generally in a fluid state in said container.
41. Apparatus according to claim 39 wherein said first substance is
generally in a solid state in said container.
42. Apparatus according to claim 39 wherein said tube is formed
with a plurality of said side apertures, wherein one of said side
apertures is in fluid communication with at least one of said
liquid portion and said gaseous portion.
43. Apparatus according to claim 42 wherein one of said side
apertures has a size different than another of said side
apertures.
44. A method of dispensing a fluid from a container, comprising:
providing a container containing a fluid; attaching a spray valve
to said container, said spray valve comprising: a dispenser body
sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid; a fluid
outlet formed in said dispenser body; a deformable element
generally freely supported around a perimeter thereof in said
dispenser body, said deformable element having a first orientation
when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a
second orientation when out of said reference temperature range,
wherein in said first orientation said deformable element is
operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in
said second orientation said deformable element is operative to
allow passage of the fluid from the container; and placing said
container with said spray valve attached thereto in an environment
whose temperature is out of said reference temperature range, such
that heat transfer between said deformable element and the
environment brings said deformable element out of said reference
temperature range after a period of time, whereupon said deformable
element deforms to said second orientation, and said fluid flows
from said container into said dispenser body and is dispensed out
of said fluid outlet.
45. The method according to claim 44 further comprising
transferring heat between said fluid and said deformable element
when said deformable element is in said second orientation so as to
bring said deformable element into said reference temperature
range, such that said deformable element deforms from said second
orientation to said first orientation, thereby preventing said
fluid from exiting said dispenser body.
46. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by selecting a desired size of
said spray nozzle.
47. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by selecting a desired size of
said fluid outlet.
48. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by constructing said deformable
element of a bimetallic material with selected thermal properties
and physical dimensions.
49. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by directing said fluid to flow
on a surface of said deformable element which faces said container,
when said deformable element is in said second position.
50. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by directing said fluid to flow
on a surface of said deformable element which does not face said
container, when said deformable element is in said second
position.
51. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by directing said fluid to flow
both on a surface of said deformable element which faces said
container and on a surface of said deformable element which does
not face said container, when said deformable element is in said
second position.
52. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by selecting desired physical
properties of said fluid.
53. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by selecting desired thermal
properties of said fluid.
54. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by selecting desired a pressure
of said fluid.
55. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising
controlling dispensing of the fluid by thermally insulating said
dispenser body from an outside environment.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of
spray dispensers and particularly to a spray dispenser which
operates by means of a novel deformable element.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Certain products such as insecticides and air fresheners are
commonly supplied in pressurized containers. The contents of the
container are usually dispensed to the atmosphere by pressing down
on a valve at the top of the container. The contents of the
container are consequently emitted through a channel in the
valve.
[0003] In many cases it is desired that the contents of the
container be automatically dispensed periodically. Many automatic
dispensers are known in the art.
[0004] A first type of automatic dispenser includes dispensers with
mechanical means, such as an arm, which periodically presses the
valve of the container. Such dispensers are described, for example,
in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,184,612, 3,739,944, 3,543,122, 3,768,732,
5,038,972 and 3,018,056. However, these dispensers cannot
accurately control the output of the container, since the valve and
the contact of the dispenser with the valve are not accurately
controlled by the dispenser. Also these dispensers are generally
not portable and are fit for use only with containers of a specific
size. The valves are also susceptible to failure because of valve
sticking, resulting in complete discharge of the contents of the
container within a short period.
[0005] Another type of automatic dispenser employs a solenoid,
which is periodically energized in order to emit a burst of the
contents of the container. Such dispensers are described, for
example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,415,797, 3,351,240 and 3,187,949.
These dispensers require substantial electrical power, and are
dependent on gravity and/or the fluid pressure in the container for
successful operation.
[0006] A third type of automatic dispenser is described, for
example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,447,273. In this automatic dispenser
the pneumatic pressure of the container is used to operate a timing
device causing the contents of the container to be periodically
dispensed. However, the ability to control the dispensation
intervals is complicated and limited due to the pneumatic
characteristic of the timing device. Other US patents that describe
pneumatic or spring-actuated dispensers include U.S. Pat. Nos.
2,719,432, 3,589,562, 3,658,209, 3,722,749, 4,077,542, 4,469,255,
5,025,962 and 5,364,028.
[0007] A fourth type of automatic dispenser is described in PCT
patent application PCT/IL98/00618, assigned to the present
assignee, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference. This type of automatic spray dispenser allows accurate
control of the amount of discharged material, and allows
flexibility in setting the frequency of dispensation. The dispenser
has an open state in which fluid is discharged from a can or
container, and a closed state in which the fluid is not emitted. A
motor is provided which changes the state of the dispenser between
the open and closed states. This is preferably accomplished by
means of a flexible lever which is coupled to a threaded shaft
which is attached to the motor. The lever is normally in a closed
state. The motor rotates the shaft, thereby flexing the lever from
the closed state to the open state and vice versa, depending on the
direction of rotation.
[0008] A fifth type of automatic dispenser utilizes a bimetallic
spring connected to a valve to control dispensing the contents of a
spray container. In this dispenser, the bimetallic spring starts,
for example, at room temperature, wherein the valve is open for
dispensing the contents out of the container. As the contents of
the container flow outwards, they thermally contact the bimetallic
spring, thereby cooling the spring. Due to its lower temperature,
the spring contracts and closes the valve, thereby stopping
dispensing the contents from the container. Eventually the
bimetallic spring is warmed by the environment back to a
temperature sufficient for the spring to re-expand to its original
position, thereby opening the valve and once again dispensing a
portion of the contents.
[0009] One example of such a bimetallic mechanism includes U.S.
Pat. No. 4,361,013 to Skeele. Skeele is not a spray dispenser, but
rather a box for cooling items stored therein. Skeele employs coil
or leaf types of bimetallic springs.
[0010] A Japanese inventor, Taisho Iketani, patented a number of
bimetallic spray devices. His earliest, U.S. Pat. No. 3,360,165,
utilizes bimetallic springs similar to those of Skeele for
spray-dispensing contents from a container. However, Iketani
quickly discovered that such springs are not suitable for
spray-dispensing, because they lack the requisite snap action for
spraying contents from a container.
[0011] Iketani improved the bimetallic spray dispenser in U.S. Pat.
No. 3,419,189, which utilizes a bimetallic disc, shaped like a
Belleville washer, clamped around its periphery. However, while the
disc does provide the requisite snap action for spraying the
contents, nevertheless the bimetallic disc does not operate
properly when clamped around its periphery.
[0012] In his next patent, U.S. Pat. No. 3,596,800, Iketani
describes the abovementioned problem in col. 3, lines 35-43: "The
conventional mechanism for supporting a disc-shaped bimetal has
been disadvantageous in that slight misalignment of the bimetal or
small variation in its size may result in an accidental reversing
movement of the bimetal depending upon the clamping forces exerted
on its periphery and therefore it is almost impossible to obtain a
uniform finished product. Such a problem becomes more serious
because the valve mechanism of this type is extremely small."
Iketani proposed to solve the problem by clamping not around the
entire periphery but rather at a number of discrete points around
the periphery.
[0013] In a divisional of U.S. Pat. No. 3,596,800, U.S. Pat. No.
3,685,693, Iketani utilized the same type of discrete clamping, and
added a manual override for spraying without the bimetal disc.
[0014] In U.S. Pat. No. 3,684,133, Iketani added two more features
to the bimetal mechanism. First, Iketani sandwiched the disc
between portions of a spongy material inwards of the clamped
periphery. The purpose of the spongy material is to absorb a
volatile liquid, such as methyl alcohol, mixed with the pressurized
contents of the spray container, so as to enhance cooling of the
bimetallic disc and accelerate snapping of the disc. Second,
Iketani attached an actuating rod to the bimetal disc. However,
neither of these features provided reliable snapping action.
[0015] Thus, even with the discrete clamping of the bimetallic
disc, these bimetallic spray dispensers have not had reliable
performance and apparently have never had any commercial
success.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] It is an object of the present invention to provide an
automatic bimetallic spray dispenser with an extremely simple and
inexpensive construction that significantly improves upon the prior
art devices. In accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention, in contradistinction to Iketani, a bimetallic disc is
employed that is freely supported around its perimeter. This
surprisingly solves the problem of the prior art, namely, the
disc-shaped bimetal does not have the disadvantage of being
sensitive to slight misalignments or variations in size, and does
not accidentally reverse its movement.
[0017] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, again in contradistinction to Iketani a generally
rectangular bimetallic element is employed that can either be
freely supported, clamped all around its perimeter or clamped only
at its short ends. This once again surprisingly solves the
abovementioned problem of the prior art. Unlike the circular disc,
the rectangular bimetallic element is not sensitive to slight
misalignments or variations in size, and does not accidentally
reverse its movement under the influence of all-around
clamping.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
novel safety valve that prevents undesirable overspraying of the
contents of a spray container.
[0019] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
novel, internal feed tube for a spray container that enables
spraying contents of the container without shaking the
contents.
[0020] There is thus provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention apparatus for spraying contents
of a spray container, including a dispenser body sealingly
attachable to a container containing a fluid, a fluid outlet formed
in the dispenser body, and a deformable element generally freely
supported around a perimeter thereof in the dispenser body, the
deformable element having a first orientation when in a reference
temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation
when out of the reference temperature range, wherein in the first
orientation the deformable element is operative to block passage of
the fluid from the container and in the second orientation the
deformable element is operative to allow passage of the fluid from
the container. The deformable element may be generally circular or
rectangular.
[0021] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, in the second position, the fluid flows towards and
contacts the deformable element, wherein heat is transferred
between the fluid and the deformable element so as to bring the
deformable element into the reference temperature range, such that
the deformable element deforms from the second orientation to the
first orientation. The fluid may contact the deformable element
either on a surface of the deformable element which faces the
container, or which does not face the container, or both.
[0022] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention a plunger is arranged for sliding motion in the
dispenser body between a first position and a second position. The
plunger is preferably attached to the deformable element.
[0023] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention the deformable element includes a bimetallic element.
Alternatively, the deformable element may be a shape memory alloy
element.
[0024] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the dispenser body includes thermal insulation
for thermally insulating the deformable element from an outside
environment.
[0025] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the dispenser body is formed with an
expansion chamber, and when the deformable element is in the second
orientation, the fluid flows into the expansion chamber and expands
therein. The expansion chamber may be positioned on one side or
both sides of the deformable element.
[0026] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention a safety spray valve is in fluid
communication with the fluid outlet which is operative to
substantially prevent flow of the fluid through the fluid
outlet.
[0027] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention the safety spray valve includes a stopper slidingly
disposed in a bore formed in the dispenser body, the bore allowing
fluid to flow from a container to the fluid outlet, wherein the
stopper is adapted to slide towards an end of the bore, and be
substantially sealingly retained thereat, by a force of pressurized
contents of the container.
[0028] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the safety spray valve includes a one-way valve
that substantially prevents matter from flowing in a direction from
the deformable element back into the container.
[0029] Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the one-way valve includes a ball disposed in
a bore formed in the dispenser body, the ball not interfering with
flow of fluid from the container towards the deformable element,
but substantially preventing flow of fluid backwards towards the
container.
[0030] Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention the spray valve is in fluid communication
with contents of a spray container, the contents including a first
substance, and a second substance which includes at least one of a
liquid portion and a gaseous portion, the spray valve further
including a tube with a lower open end in fluid communication with
the first substance, the tube being formed with at least one side
aperture in fluid communication with the second substance.
[0031] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention the at least one side aperture is in fluid communication
with the liquid portion. Alternatively, the at least one side
aperture is in fluid communication with the gaseous portion.
[0032] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention when the spray valve dispenses the contents, an
internal pressure of the container forces the first substance into
the open end, and as the first substance rises in the tube, the
second substance can enter the at least one side aperture and mix
with the first substance, prior to the contents being sprayed.
[0033] There is also provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention apparatus for spraying contents
of a spray container, including a dispenser body sealingly
attachable to a container containing a fluid, an expansion chamber
formed in the dispenser body, a fluid outlet formed in the
dispenser body, and a generally rectangular deformable element
disposed in the expansion chamber, the deformable element having a
first orientation when in a reference temperature range and
reversibly deforming to a second orientation when out of the
reference temperature range, wherein in the first orientation the
deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from
the container and in the second orientation the deformable element
is operative to allow passage of the fluid from the container, and
when the deformable element is in the second orientation, the fluid
flows into the expansion chamber and expands therein.
[0034] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention the deformable element is generally freely supported in
the expansion chamber in the first orientation, wherein as the
deformable element snaps from the first orientation to the second
orientation, ends of the deformable element move and abut against
inner surfaces of the expansion chamber, the ends of the deformable
element being separated by a gap from the inner surfaces of the
expansion chamber and freely supported in the expansion chamber
when the deformable element has snapped to the second
orientation.
[0035] Alternatively, two ends of the deformable element are
clamped in the expansion chamber. Still alternatively, the
deformable element is clamped generally around its perimeter in the
expansion chamber.
[0036] There is also provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention apparatus for spraying contents
of a spray container, including a dispenser body sealingly
attachable to a container containing a fluid, a fluid outlet formed
in the dispenser body, a spray nozzle in fluid communication with
the dispenser body operative to spray the fluid from the container,
and a safety valve operative to substantially prevent flow of the
fluid through the spray nozzle even if the spray nozzle
malfunctions.
[0037] There is also provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention apparatus for spraying contents
of a spray container, the contents including a first substance, and
a second substance which includes at least one of a liquid portion
and a gaseous portion, the apparatus including a tube with a lower
open end in fluid communication with the first substance, the tube
being formed with at least one side aperture in fluid communication
with the second substance. The first substance may be generally in
a fluid or solid state in the container.
[0038] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention the tube is formed with a plurality of the side
apertures, wherein one of the side apertures is in fluid
communication with at least one of the liquid portion and the
gaseous portion.
[0039] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention one of the side apertures has a size different
than another of the side apertures.
[0040] There is also in accordance with a preferred embodiment of
the present invention a method of dispensing a fluid from a
container, including providing a container containing a fluid,
attaching a spray valve to the container, the spray valve including
a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a
fluid, a fluid outlet formed in the dispenser body, a deformable
element generally freely supported around a perimeter thereof in
the dispenser body, the deformable element having a first
orientation when in a reference temperature range and reversibly
deforming to a second orientation when out of the reference
temperature range, wherein in the first orientation the deformable
element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the
container and in the second orientation the deformable element is
operative to allow passage of the fluid from the container, and
placing the container with the spray valve attached thereto in an
environment whose temperature is out of the reference temperature
range, such that heat transfer between the deformable element and
the environment brings the deformable element out of the reference
temperature range after a period of time, whereupon the deformable
element deforms to the second orientation, and the fluid flows from
the container into the dispenser body and is dispensed out of the
fluid outlet.
[0041] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention the method further includes transferring heat between the
fluid and the deformable element when the deformable element is in
the second orientation so as to bring the deformable element into
the reference temperature range, such that the deformable element
deforms from the second orientation to the first orientation,
thereby preventing the fluid from exiting the dispenser body.
[0042] Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention the method includes controlling dispensing of the
fluid by one of the following steps: selecting a desired size of
the spray nozzle, selecting a desired size of the fluid outlet,
constructing the deformable element of a bimetallic material with
selected thermal properties and physical dimensions, directing the
fluid to flow on a surface of the deformable element which faces
the container, when the deformable element is in the second
position, directing the fluid to flow on a surface of the
deformable element which does not face the container, when the
deformable element is in the second position, directing the fluid
to flow both on a surface of the deformable element which faces the
container and on a surface of the deformable element which does not
face the container, when the deformable element is in the second
position, selecting desired physical properties of the fluid,
selecting desired thermal properties of the fluid, selecting
desired a pressure of the fluid, or thermally insulating the
dispenser body from an outside environment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] The present invention will be understood and appreciated
more fully from the following detailed description, taken in
conjunction with the drawings in which:
[0044] FIGS. 1A and 1B are simplified pictorial illustrations of a
spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed
and open configurations, wherein a fluid flows against a lower
surface of a deformable element and exits as a fluid spray from a
side outlet;
[0045] FIGS. 2A and 2B are simplified pictorial illustrations of a
spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with another
preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed
and open configurations, wherein the fluid flows against an upper
surface of the deformable element and exits as a fluid spray from a
side outlet;
[0046] FIGS. 3A and 3B are simplified pictorial illustrations of a
spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with yet
another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in
respective closed and open configurations, wherein the fluid flows
against an upper surface of the deformable element and exits as a
fluid spray from an upper outlet;
[0047] FIGS. 4A and 4B are simplified pictorial illustrations of a
spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with another
preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed
and open configurations, wherein the fluid flows against both lower
and upper surfaces of the deformable element and exits as a fluid
spray from a side outlet;
[0048] FIG. 5 is a simplified sectional illustration of a safety
spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0049] FIGS. 6A and 6B are simplified sectional and top-view
illustrations, respectively, of a spray valve constructed and
operative in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of
the present invention, which employs a generally rectangular
deformable element clamped around its perimeter;
[0050] FIGS. 6C and 6D are simplified sectional and top-view
illustrations, respectively, of a spray valve constructed and
operative in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of
the present invention, which employs a generally rectangular
deformable element clamped at its short ends;
[0051] FIGS. 6E and 6F are simplified sectional illustrations of
the spray valve of FIGS. 6C and 6D, respectively during and after
the deformable element reversing its position;
[0052] FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C are simplified pictorial illustrations
of a spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with still
another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in
respective full, partially full and nearly empty configurations,
wherein contents of a spray container can be sprayed without
shaking the container; and
[0053] FIG. 7D is a simplified illustration of the spray valve of
FIGS. 7A-7C, with an upper aperture formed in a feed tube, in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0054] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A and 1B which illustrate a
spray valve 10 constructed and operative in accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0055] Spray valve 10 preferably includes a dispenser body 12 with
an expansion chamber 14 formed therein. Dispenser body 12 may be
sealingly connected to a container 16 containing a fluid 18, such
as by means of an elastic metal ring 24 which tightly fits into a
groove 26 formed at a bottom end of dispenser body 12, in the same
or similar manner as described in PCT patent application
PCT/IL98/00618. Fluid 18 may be any kind of fluid, suitable for
storing in container 16 (under pressure or not), such as, but not
limited to, odorants, pesticides, fungicides, foodstuffs, paint,
repellents, and the like. Container 16 may be any kind of
pressurized or non-pressurized container used in any of the
applications described in PCT patent application PCT/IL98/00618.
Container has a nozzle 17 extending therefrom (FIG. 1A).
[0056] Dispenser body 12 may include thermal insulation 19, such as
a plastic liner (single or multiple layers of insulation), or such
as being constructed like a vacuum flask or with an insulating air
pocket, for example.
[0057] A fluid outlet 20 is preferably formed in dispenser body 12
and is in fluid communication with expansion chamber 14. In the
embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B, fluid outlet 20 is located on a side
of dispenser body 12.
[0058] A plunger 22 is preferably arranged for sliding motion in
dispenser body 12 between a first position (the position shown in
FIG. 1A) and a second position (the position shown in FIG. 1B).
Plunger 22 can be brought into fluid communication with the fluid
18 contained in container 16 in a variety of manners. In the
illustrated embodiment, an adapter 28 is provided formed with a
lower aperture 29 which snugly fits over nozzle 17 of container 16.
Different adapters 28 with differently sized apertures 29 may be
provided for connection with any size nozzle 17. An O-ring 30 may
be provided for sealing the fluid connection between adapter 28 and
container nozzle 17. Adapter 28 is formed with a longitudinal bore
31.
[0059] Adapter 28 fits in a bore 32 formed in dispenser body 12.
Another O-ring 34 may be provided for fluidly sealing adapter 28
with respect to bore 32. An upper portion 36 of adapter 28 abuts
against a guide member 38. Preferably a third O-ring 40 is provided
to seal the fluid connection between adapter 28 and guide member
38. Guide member 38 is formed with a bore 42 in which slides
plunger 22. A lower portion of guide member 38 is formed with a
counterbore 44 which extends from bore 42.
[0060] In accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present
invention, plunger 22 is constructed as a hollow needle with a hole
46 formed in a lower portion thereof and a hole 48 formed at an
upper end thereof (the hollow being shown in dashed lines in FIG.
1A). Alternatively, plunger 22 may be formed as a non-hollow needle
A stop 50 may be affixed to the upper end of plunger 22 which
limits the downward travel (in the sense of FIG. 1A) of plunger 22.
In the case of a hollow-needle plunger 22, an O-ring 52 and O-ring
cover 54 may be provided for fluidly sealing the upper end of
plunger 22 with guide member 38 and stop 50. In the case of a
non-hollow plunger 22, stop 50, O-ring 52 and O-ring cover 54 are
preferably omitted.
[0061] The skilled artisan will appreciate that the foregoing
description of plunger 22 and the various seals is just one example
of countless other configurations of constructing and sealing
plunger 22, and that any configuration of plunger 22 is within the
scope of the present invention.
[0062] A deformable element 56 is preferably mounted just above
expansion chamber 14 in dispenser body 12. Deformable element 56
may have any shape, such as circular, rectangular or square, for
example. In the case of a circular, disc-shaped element, deformable
element 56 is not clamped around its periphery, as in the Iketani
devices described in the background. Instead, deformable element 56
is preferably freely supported around its periphery. In the
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, a plug 53 preferably
snugly fits in dispenser body 12 and is preferably fastened thereto
with a retaining ring 47. The periphery of deformable element 56 is
placed, but not clamped, between a lower extension 43 of plug 53
and an O-ring 58. As deformable element 56 bends downwards or
upwards (in the sense of FIG. 1A), deformable element 56 merely
rests on or slightly squeezes O-ring 58, but there is generally no
clamping force on deformable element 56. The purpose of O-ring 58
is to seal the expansion chamber 14 which is situated below
deformable element 56 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B. (In
another embodiment, shown in FIG. 5, the expansion chamber is on
both sides of the deformable element, and there is no need for an
O-ring.) Thus deformable element 56 is free to snap from one
position to another without any clamping forces. Unlike the prior
art, namely, deformable element 56 does not have the disadvantage
of being sensitive to slight misalignments or variations in size,
and does not accidentally reverse its movement.
[0063] There is preferably a gap 51 that extends radially between
the peripheral edge of deformable element 56 and the inner
perimeter of expansion chamber 14. Gap 51 ensures that there are no
radially-directed stresses acting upon deformable element 56. In
the case of a non-hollow plunger 22 that is attached to deformable
element 56, gap 51 enables plunger 22 to self-center relative to
stop 50 and O-ring 52 without any radially-directed forces acting
upon deformable element 56. The presence of gap 51 relaxes
manufacturing tolerances and thus brings down the cost of
manufacturing spray valve 10.
[0064] Deformable element 56 may be formed with one or more holes
in its central portion or any other portion thereof. The upper end
of plunger 22 preferably abuts against a surface 59 of deformable
element 56. Alternatively, in the case of plunger 22 being
constructed as a non-hollow needle, plunger 22 is preferably
attached to deformable element 56, such as by means of spot
welding, for example.
[0065] In a most preferred embodiment, deformable element 56 is
constructed of a bimetallic material, i.e., two dissimilar metals
welded or otherwise joined together, the two metals having
different temperature coefficients of expansion. Due to the
different thermal properties of the two metals, deformable element
56 has a first orientation when in a reference temperature range
and reversibly deforms to a second orientation when out of the
reference temperature range.
[0066] For example, in the illustrated embodiment, deformable
element 56 is in the first orientation shown in FIG. 1A. In this
first orientation, surface 59 of deformable element 56 has a
generally convex shape when viewed from the upper tip of plunger
22. Deformable element 56 applies a force against plunger 22
generally in the direction of an arrow 57 so as to prevent plunger
22 from sliding from the first position of FIG. 1A to the second
position of FIG. 1B. In the first position, fluid 18 can flow from
container 16 into longitudinal bore 31 of adapter 28, but O-ring 40
substantially prevents fluid 18 from flowing into counterbore 44 of
guide member 38. Thus, in the first orientation, deformable element
56 prevents fluid 18 from being dispensed through outlet 20.
Deformable element 56 remains in the first orientation as long as
it is in the reference temperature range. For example, as long as
deformable element 56 is below -20.degree. C., it will remain in
the first orientation. (As is well known in the art, commercially
available bimetallic elements can be supplied for any desired
temperature range.)
[0067] If deformable element 56 is out of the reference temperature
range, then deformable element 56 deforms to the second orientation
shown in FIG. 1B. In this second orientation, surface 59 of
deformable element 56 has a generally concave shape when viewed
from the upper tip of plunger 22. The deformation of deformable
element 56 permits plunger 22 to slide generally in the direction
of an arrow 55 (opposite to the direction of arrow 57 shown in FIG.
1A) to the second position shown in FIG. 1B. In the second
position, fluid 18 flows into counterbore 44 of guide member 38. In
the case of a hollow plunger 22, fluid 18 then flows into hole 46
through plunger 22 and out of upper hole 48 into expansion chamber
14. In the case of a non-hollow plunger 22, fluid 18 flows from
counterbore 44 into the space between plunger 22 and bore 42 up
into expansion chamber 14. Fluid 18 then expands in expansion
chamber 14 and exits outlet 20 as a spray. Deformable element 56
remains in the second orientation as long as it is out of the
reference temperature range. For example, as long as deformable
element 56 is at a temperature equal to or greater than -20.degree.
C., it will remain in the second orientation, and fluid 18 will
continue to be dispensed from outlet 20.
[0068] The temperature of deformable element 56 is determined by
heat transfer between fluid 18 and deformable element 56 and by
heat transfer between deformable element 56 and the environment
outside of dispenser body 12, as is now described.
[0069] Operation of spray valve 10 commences by placing container
16 with spray valve 10 attached thereto in an environment whose
temperature is out of the reference temperature range. For example,
container 16 is placed in a room whose ambient temperature is
greater than -20.degree. C. Heat transfer (by conduction through
the walls of dispenser body 12, and convection and radiation to the
room environment) between deformable element 56 and the environment
eventually brings deformable element 56 out of the reference
temperature range after a period of time. In other words, in the
above example, the heat transfer eventually warms deformable
element 56 from a temperature below -20.degree. C. to a temperature
greater than or equal to -20.degree. C., whereupon deformable
element 56 deforms to the second orientation, plunger 22 slides to
the second position, fluid 18 flows from container 16 to expansion
chamber 14 and expands to a fluid spray that exits from fluid
outlet 20, as described hereinabove.
[0070] While plunger 22 is in the second position, fluid 18
contacts deformable element 56 and thereby eventually brings
deformable element 56 back into the reference temperature range. In
other words, in the above example, heat transfer between fluid 18
and deformable element 56 cools deformable element 56 from a
temperature greater than or equal to -20.degree. C. to a
temperature below -20.degree. C., such that deformable element 56
deforms from the second orientation back to the first orientation
and plunger 22 slides back to the first position, thereby
preventing fluid 18 from exiting dispenser body 12.
[0071] Eventually heat transfer between deformable element 56 and
the environment once again brings deformable element 56 out of the
reference temperature range, and the operating cycle repeats
itself.
[0072] Thus spray valve 10 cyclically dispenses fluid 18 from
container 16. Various factors affect the frequency and time
duration of dispensation, amount of fluid dispensed, the operative
reference temperature range, and time for deformable element 56 to
deform between the two orientations. These factors include, inter
alia:
[0073] a. Size of plunger 22 and any holes thereof (46, 48) through
which fluid 18 flows.
[0074] b. Size of outlet 20.
[0075] c. Type of bimetallic material (or shape memory alloy, as
described below) from which deformable element 56 is constructed,
as well as the size and thickness of deformable element 56. The
type of material affects the time for deformable element 56 to
deform between the two orientations, temperature behavior of
deformable element 56, and force applied against plunger 22.
[0076] d. Whether fluid 18 flows on surface 59 of deformable
element 56 or on an opposite surface thereof (as is described
hereinbelow). If fluid 18 flows on surface 59, then the fluid
pressure of fluid 18 retards the deformation of deformable element
56 from the second to the first orientation. Conversely, if fluid
18 flows on a side opposite to surface 59, then the fluid pressure
of fluid 18 aids in pushing deformable element 56 from the second
to the first orientation.
[0077] e. The physical and thermal properties of fluid 18, as well
as its pressure.
[0078] f. More than one deformable element 56 may be used. For
example, two or more deformable elements 56 may be stacked together
and used as one composite deformable element. The number of
deformable elements 56 governs the force that the deformable
elements apply against plunger 22. An assortment of deformable
elements 56 may be provided with different thermal characteristics,
mechanical properties or physical dimensions, in order to cover a
wide range of applications.
[0079] g. Size of expansion chamber 14.
[0080] h. Thermal properties of thermal insulation 19.
[0081] It is noted that in the above example, deformable element 56
is warmed by the environment in order to dispense fluid 18, and is
cooled by fluid 18 in order to stop dispensing fluid 18. It is
appreciated that the present invention can also be carried out for
dispensing fluids which are hotter than the environment. In such a
case, deformable element 56 is cooled by the environment in order
to dispense fluid 18, and is warmed by fluid 18 in order to stop
dispensing fluid 18.
[0082] An alternative material for constructing deformable element
56 is a shape memory alloy, such as a nickel titanium alloy Shape
memory alloys have the ability to return to a predetermined shape
upon heating via a phase transformation between austenitic and
martensitic structures.
[0083] Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A and 2B which illustrate a
spray valve 60 constructed and operative in accordance with another
preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed
and open configurations. Spray valve 60 is substantially
constructed the same as spray valve 10, with like elements being
designated by like numerals. Spray valve 60 differs from spray
valve 10 in that spray valve 60 includes a channel 62 which directs
flow of fluid 18 against a surface 64 of deformable element 56
opposite surface 59. Fluid 18 still exits as a fluid spray from
side outlet 20. As mentioned above, since fluid 18 flows on surface
64 opposite to surface 59, the fluid pressure of fluid 18 aids in
pushing deformable element 56 from the second to the first
orientation.
[0084] Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A and 3B which illustrate a
spray valve 70 constructed and operative in accordance with yet
another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in
respective closed and open configurations. Spray valve 70 is
substantially constructed the same as spray valve 60, with like
elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 70 differs
from spray valve 60 in that spray valve 70 includes a channel 72
which directs flow of fluid 18 from surface 64 of deformable
element 56 to an upper outlet 74, from which fluid 18 exits as a
spray.
[0085] Reference is now made to FIGS. 4A and 4B which illustrate a
spray valve 80 constructed and operative in accordance with yet
another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in
respective closed and open configurations. Spray valve 80 is
substantially constructed the same as spray valve 10 or 60, with
like elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 80
differs from spray valve 10 or 60 in that in spray valve 80,
deformable element 56 is arranged with respect to expansion chamber
14 such that expansion chamber 14 extends around deformable element
56 by means of a bypass 82. In this manner, in the second
orientation, fluid 18 flows against both lower and upper surfaces
59 and 64 of deformable element 56. The fluid 18 can exit from
either a side outlet (as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B) or as an upper
outlet (as in the embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3B).
[0086] It is noted that aerosol cans contain a pressurized liquid
which is dispensed as droplets or as a mist or gas. However,
aerosol cans cannot generally dispense a fluid which has already
changed to gas inside the can. In the present invention, the
presence of expansion chamber 14 permits dispensing fluid 18 even
if fluid 18 has already changed to a gaseous state.
[0087] It is be appreciated that many other arrangements of the
internal components of spray valves 10, 60, 70 and 80 are possible
within the scope of the present invention.
[0088] Reference is now made to FIG. 5 which illustrates a valve 90
constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment
of the present invention. Valve 90 can be employed in any kind of
aerosol spray system, including the above described embodiments of
the present invention, and is particularly useful in systems which
spray a predetermined amount of substance or where a safety valve
is required. Valve 90 can be integrated with or replace the
existing valve of the spray system.
[0089] Valve 90 preferably includes a lower body 92 with a narrow
extension 94. Extension 94 is adapted to be fluid connected with a
feed tube 95 through which contents of a container 96 can flow.
Feed tube 95 is preferably the feed tube shown and described
hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 7A-7D, but alternatively any
other kind of feed tube may be used. Body 92 and extension 94 are
preferably formed with a central bore 98 which extends into a
counterbore 107. In the position shown in FIG. 5, a stopper 106 is
disposed at the bottom of counterbore 107, thereby defining a
volume 108 between stopper 106 and an upper end 102 of counterbore
107. A clearance preferably exists between the outer perimeter of
stopper 106 and the inner perimeter of counterbore 107, such that a
portion of the contents of container 96 can flow from container 96
around stopper 106 and fill volume 108.
[0090] An expansion chamber 99 is preferably formed in an inner
volume of an upper body 110, which preferably has a lower extension
112 that snaps fixedly on lower body 92. A soft elastomeric (e.g.,
rubber) washer 105 may be placed between upper and lower bodies 110
and 92. Alternatively, lower and upper bodies 92 and 110 may be
constructed as one unitary body, in which case there is no need for
washer 105. Deformable element 56 is disposed in expansion chamber
99. A plunger 100 is preferably attached to deformable element 56,
such as by means of spot welding, for example. Plunger 100,
preferably non-hollow, is arranged to slide from an upper position
shown in solid lines in FIG. 5 to a lower position shown in dashed
lines. In the lower position, plunger 100 preferably sealingly
slides into an O-ring 104 affixed at the upper end 102 of
counterbore 107.
[0091] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, expansion chamber 99 has a shape that conforms to the
limits of the deformed orientations of deformable element 56.
Expansion chamber 99 preferably is formed with a hole 99A, through
which passes plunger 100. The conformal shape of expansion chamber
99 has several advantages:
[0092] a. The shape of expansion chamber 99 permits placing a spray
outlet 101 at any angle or orientation in expansion chamber 99,
thereby enabling spraying contents of a container in any
direction.
[0093] b. Any number of spray outlets 101 of any combination of
size and shape may be employed, through which the contents are
sprayed essentially simultaneously. By controlling the number, size
and shape of the outlets 101, one can substantially prevent excess
pressure build-up in expansion chamber 99.
[0094] c. Because of the shape of expansion chamber 99, the fluid
contents of the container flow both over and under deformable
element 56 generally at the same time.
[0095] d. The conformal shape of expansion chamber 99 has a small
volume, thereby permitting spraying small dosages of the contents
of the spray container.
[0096] e. The shape also prevents accumulation of any leftover
matter that did not completely exit the expansion chamber 99 during
the previous spraying. Any leftover matter flows along the bottom
of expansion chamber 99, drains through hole 99A and is sprayed
during the next spraying.
[0097] f. The size of expansion chamber 99 determines the quantity
of fluid 103 that can be sprayed, and the amount of liquid droplets
of fluid 103 that will be sprayed as opposed to gaseous matter. The
larger the chamber, the more room there is for fluid 103 to expand,
and consequently less liquid droplets will be sprayed. Conversely,
the smaller the chamber, the more liquid droplets will be sprayed.
The maximum quantity of substance which can be sprayed at a time is
about equal to volume 108. However, it is preferable not to spray
more than volume 108 at a time, so that stopper 106 will not become
lodged in end 102 of bore 98.
[0098] Operation of valve 90 is now described. Initially, a
quantity of fluid 103 has flowed from container 96 through tube 95
and bore 98 into volume 108. When deformable element 56 is in the
upward (solid line) position of FIG. 5, the internal pressure of
the contents of container 96 push upwards (in the sense of FIG. 5)
against stopper 106 and force some of the fluid 103 upwards from
volume 108 through hole 99A into expansion chamber 99. Fluid 103
expands in expansion chamber 99 and exits as a spray through spray
outlet or outlets 101. Fluid 103 flows around the ends of
deformable element 56, such that fluid 103 cools both sides of
deformable element 56. Once deformable element 56 has sufficiently
cooled, it snaps to the lower (dashed line) position shown in FIG.
5. Plunger 100 slides into O-ring 104 and seals the upper end 102
of counterbore 107. Stopper 106 drops back down by gravity to the
bottom of counterbore 107 and a fresh portion of the contents of
container 96 flows upwards past stopper 106 and re-fills volume
108. The re-filled volume 108 is now ready for the next spray.
[0099] Optionally, valve 90 may be configured to be a one-way
valve, i.e., a valve that prevents matter from flowing back into
container 96. This may be accomplished by placing a small,
preferably elastic, ball 156 below stopper 106. Ball 156 can become
lodged in a chamfered portion 158 formed in bore 98 at the throat
of lower extension 94. Ball 156 does not interfere with flow of
fluid 103 from container 96 towards deformable element 56 and
chamber 99, but does substantially prevent flow of fluid backwards
towards container 96.
[0100] Once again, it is to be emphasized that deformable element
56 is free to snap from one position to another without any
clamping forces. This is because deformable element 56 is not
clamped, but rather freely supported. There is preferably an
up-and-down gap 183 (in the sense of FIG. 5) and a radial gap 185
between deformable element 56 and the inner surfaces of expansion
chamber 99. Radial gap 185 ensures that there are no
radially-directed stresses acting upon deformable element 56, and
enables plunger 100 to self-center relative to O-ring 104 without
any radially-directed forces acting upon deformable element 56. The
presence of gaps 183 and 185 relaxes manufacturing tolerances and
brings down manufacturing costs.
[0101] Generally only about half or less of the fluid 103 in volume
108 is sprayed at a time. Various factors affect the frequency and
time duration of dispensation, amount of fluid dispensed, the
operative reference temperature range, and time for deformable
element 56 to deform between the two orientations, as described
hereinabove.
[0102] If any malfunction occurs and plunger 100 does not close
properly, the internal pressure of the contents of container 96
will continue to force stopper 106 upwards towards upper end 102 of
bore 98 such that stopper 106 will become lodged in end 102 of bore
98, thereby substantially sealing upper end 102 of bore 98 and
preventing further spraying of the contents. It is noted that in
FIG. 5 stopper 106 is illustrated as having an upper protrusion
106A which abuts against upper end 102. However, it is appreciated
that stopper 106 could be flat and still seal against end 102,
because the internal pressure of the contents of container 96 will
maintain an upward force against stopper 106.
[0103] Thus, stopper 106 acts as a safety valve which prevents
undesirable overspraying of the contents. Stopper 106 can prevent
leaking or overspraying due to a variety of malfunctions. For
example, malfunctions can possibly occur due to: knocks or blows to
the container 96, dropping the container, a gas leak, or the fluid
inside the container being spent. In all cases stopper 106 will act
as a safety valve because the internal pressure will maintain
stopper 106 sealed against end 102. In addition, if spraying is
performed with the container in a horizontal or inverted position,
stopper 106 will also substantially prevent spraying, because the
internal pressure will again maintain stopper 106 sealed against
end 102.
[0104] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, an on-off switch 177 can be provided next to deformable
element 56. On-off switch 177 may be simply constructed, for
example, as a stem 178 that slides in a bore 179 formed in an upper
portion of upper body 110. A pin 180 preferably protrudes from a
side of stem 178. Stem 178 can be pushed against deformable element
56 in the direction of an arrow 181 in FIG. 5, whereupon stem 178
can be turned approximately a quarter-turn so that pin 180 is
received in a groove 182 formed in the upper portion of upper body
110. Once on-off switch 177 is pushed against deformable element
56, deformable element 56 cannot snap to the upper position of FIG.
5, and valve 90 is thus switched off Conversely, the valve is
turned on by removing pin 180 from groove 182.
[0105] On-off switch 177 can act as a manual reset for the stopper
106 as well. The action of pushing on-off switch 177 downwards (in
the sense of FIG. 5), without quarter-turning stem 178, dislodges
stopper 106 from the upper end 102 of counterbore 107 It is
appreciated that other on-off switches may also be employed.
[0106] It is noted that the embodiment of FIG. 5 is distinguished,
inter alia, by its simple construction--deformable element 56,
lower and upper bodies 92 and 110, plunger 100, expansion chamber
99, stopper 106 and O-ring 104 (and optionally washer 105, ball 1
and on-off switch 177). The contents of the container flow directly
to deformable element 56 without any need for extraneous structure
as in Iketani, for example.
[0107] The fluid contents can be directed to flow from underneath
deformable element 56 as shown and described hereinabove with
reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, or above deformable element 56 as
shown and described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B.
In other words, one can construct valve 90 such that the flow of
the contents helps deformable element 56 snap back to the closed
position (i.e., flow from underneath deformable element 56).
Alternatively, one can construct valve 90 such that the flow of the
contents retards deformable element 56 from snapping back to the
closed position (i.e., flow from above deformable element 56). As
another alternative, deformable element 56 can be formed with one
or more holes through which the contents can be sprayed. The
contents can also flow around deformable element 56.
[0108] In the case of the fluid contents being directed to flow
from underneath deformable element 56, the upward flow of the
contents applies an upward force upon plunger 100. This force aids
in snapping deformable element 56 to the spray orientation, and
shortens the time between sprayings. The smaller the
cross-sectional area of plunger 100, the smaller the force of the
contents, and the longer time between sprayings. This upward force
can cause deformable element 56 to snap to the spray orientation
before deformable element 56 has actually reached the temperature
normally required for snapping (i.e., actuation temperature). This
allows using a deformable element with a slightly higher actuation
temperature, which generally means cost savings, because the price
of bimetallic discs generally decreases with higher actuation
temperatures.
[0109] Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A and 6B which illustrate a
spray valve 180 constructed and operative in accordance with still
another preferred embodiment of the present invention. Spray valve
180 is constructed generally similarly to valve 90, with like
elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 180 employs
a generally rectangular deformable element 182 either freely
supported and placed between two halves 184 and 186 of an expansion
chamber 188, or alternatively, clamped around its perimeter by the
two halves 184 and 186, or further alternatively, clamped at only
two ends thereof. It is generally the central area of deformable
element 182 which snaps from one position to another.
[0110] A hole is preferably formed in the bottom of half 186 for
plunger 100 to pass therethrough and for draining any leftover
matter from previous sprayings. Deformable element 182 is
preferably formed with one or more generally rectangular apertures
190, through which matter can be sprayed. The matter can exit
expansion chamber 188 through an upper spray outlet 192, for
example. Valve 180 operates in the same manner as the other valves
of the present invention, described hereinabove. It is appreciated
that any abovementioned variations in construction, such as number
and position of spray outlets, for example, can be incorporated in
valve 180 as well. Unlike circular bimetallic elements, the
rectangular deformable element (bimetallic or shape memory) is not
sensitive to slight misalignments or variations in size, and does
not accidentally reverse its movement under the influence of
all-around clamping.
[0111] Reference is now made to FIGS. 6C-6F which illustrate a
spray valve 194 constructed and operative in accordance with yet
another preferred embodiment of the present invention. Spray valve
194 is constructed generally similarly to valve 180, with like
elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 194 employs
a generally rectangular deformable element 196 with short ends 198
which may be bent. Deformable element 196 is preferably freely
supported in an expansion chamber 137. There is preferably a gap
135 between short ends 198 and an inner surface of expansion
chamber 137.
[0112] In FIG. 6C, deformable element 196 is bent upwards, in the
sense of the figure. As deformable element 196 starts to snap
downwards, the short ends 198 move outwards in the direction of
arrows 127 and abut against inner surfaces of expansion chamber
137, as seen in FIG. 6E. Once deformable element 196 snaps
downwards to the position shown in FIG. 6F, there is again a gap
135 between short ends 198 and an inner surface of expansion
chamber 137.
[0113] Many aerosol cans contain liquid and gaseous contents which
must be shaken before spraying in order to mix these contents
properly. Unfortunately, sometimes users forget to shake the
contents, and in some spraying systems, it is inconvenient or
impossible (such as in automatic spray dispensers) to shake the
contents before each spray. The present invention enables spraying
such contents without any need for shaking as is now described.
[0114] Reference is now made to FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C which
illustrate a tube 122 useful for spray apparatus, constructed and
operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. Tube 122 preferably has a lower open end 124 in fluid
communication with contents of a spray container 128. Lower open
end 124 may be at the tip of tube 122, or alternatively may be on a
side wall of tube 122. Lower open end 124 may be weighted, if
desired, so that open end 124 gravitates towards the lowest part of
container 128, irrespective of the angle at which container 128 is
positioned.
[0115] Spray container 128 may be any kind of spray container of
the present invention or of the art, and the upper end of tube 122
may be connected to any kind of spray nozzle (not shown) of the
present invention or of the art, including the safety valve of FIG.
5. The contents of container 128 preferably include a first
substance 126, which generally remains in a fluid (liquid or
gaseous) state in container 128, and a second substance 117 which
preferably comprises a liquid portion 132 and a gaseous portion
133. Gaseous portion 133 maintains a generally constant pressure on
liquid portion 132 and first substance 126. It is this pressure
which pushes the contents of container 128 out through tube 122 for
spraying, as will be described hereinbelow. In many spraying
applications, it is preferable that the first substance 126 and
liquid portion 132 be mixed prior to being sprayed. Tube 122 mixes
the two substances 126 and 117 as is described hereinbelow.
[0116] It is noted that the present invention is also applicable
for spraying fine, solid particles as well. Thus, first substance
126 can also comprise a solid material, such as a sprayable powder.
Second substance 117 does not necessarily have to include both a
liquid portion 132 and a gaseous portion 133, but rather can be
either liquid alone or gas alone.
[0117] Tube 122 is preferably formed with one or more side
apertures of any size or shape. In the illustrated embodiment,
there are three apertures, designated 130A, 130B and 130C, although
it is appreciated that any number of apertures may be formed in
tube 122. (Tube 122 may alternatively or additionally be provided
with one or more gas intake apertures 139 to perform functions
described further hereinbelow with reference to FIG. 7D.) FIG. 7A
shows spray container 128 filled with liquid portion 132 above
first substance 126, and gaseous portion 133 above liquid portion
132. It is seen that liquid portion 132 is in fluid communication
with the upper aperture 130A. When the spray nozzle is opened for
spraying, the internal pressure of container 128, i.e., the
downward pressure supplied by gaseous portion 133, forces the first
substance 126 into the open end 124. As first substance 126 rises
in tube 122, liquid portion 132 can enter the upper aperture 130A
and mix with first substance 126 as it flows upwards in tube 122.
In this manner, the two substances are mixed prior to being
sprayed, without any need for shaking the contents of container
128.
[0118] In FIGS. 7B and 7C, a sufficient amount of the contents have
been sprayed such that spray container 128 is now partially full or
nearly empty, respectively. Liquid portion 132 is now in fluid
communication with the middle aperture 130B or lower aperture 130C,
respectively. Once again, when the spray nozzle is opened for
spraying, the downward pressure supplied by gaseous portion 133
forces first substance 126 into the open end 124. As first
substance 126 rises in tube 122, liquid portion 132 can enter the
middle or lower aperture 130B or 130C, respectively, and mix with
first substance 126 as it flows upwards in tube 122. The two
substances are mixed prior to being sprayed, without any need for
shaking the contents of container 128.
[0119] It is noted that in FIG. 7B, gaseous portion 133 enters the
upper aperture 130A and mixes with first substance 126 and liquid
portion 132. In FIG. 7C, gaseous portion 133 enters the upper and
middle apertures 130A and 130B and mixes with first substance 126
and liquid portion 132. In each case, the added ingredient of
gaseous portion 133 slightly changes the proportion of first
substance to the second substance. Although the change in
proportion is generally negligible, nevertheless it can be
minimized by varying the relative sizes of the lower, middle and
upper apertures 130A, 130B and 130C. In general, the amount of
gaseous portion 133 which enters tube 122 and mixes with first
substance 126 and liquid portion 132, is mostly a function of the
inner diameter of tube 122 and the sizes of apertures 130, rather
than the number of apertures 130.
[0120] In summary, it is possible to have small, although for most
applications negligible, differences in the ratio of first
substance to second substance as the contents are emptied from
container 128. The factors which affect the mixing ratio of first
substance 126 and liquid portion 132 include, inter alia, initial
ratio of first to second substance, properties of first and second
substances 126 and 117, the amount of gaseous portion 133 left as
the contents of container 128 are emptied, diameter, shape or size
of the side apertures 130 and their relative position to each
other, internal pressure of the container, and the spray time,
i.e., the amount of time the contents are sprayed.
[0121] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 7D, tube 122 may have one or
more apertures 139 formed at an upper end thereof which are in
fluid communication with gaseous portion 133 at all times, and are
not in fluid communication with first substance 126 nor liquid
portion 132. In this manner, each time the contents of container
128 are sprayed, first substance 126 flows up through tube 122 and
mixes only with gaseous portion 133, thereby maintaining a constant
ratio of the mixture of first substance 126 and second substance
117 (in the form of gaseous portion 133), no matter whether the
container 128 is full or not.
[0122] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
the present invention is not limited by what has been particularly
shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present
invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the
features described hereinabove as well as modifications and
variations thereof which would occur to a person of skill in the
art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not in the
prior art.
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