U.S. patent application number 10/417456 was filed with the patent office on 2004-02-19 for systems and devices for emitting volatile compositions.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Kvietok, Frank Andrej, St. Pierre, Eileen Marie.
Application Number | 20040033171 10/417456 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33309508 |
Filed Date | 2004-02-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040033171 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kvietok, Frank Andrej ; et
al. |
February 19, 2004 |
Systems and devices for emitting volatile compositions
Abstract
Methods and devices for emitting volatile materials are
disclosed. In some embodiments, methods and devices for emitting
two or more fragrance compositions are disclosed. In one
non-limiting embodiment of a device, the device has a housing, and
the housing is supported on an electrical outlet by a plug at least
indirectly joined to the housing. The device contains a first
volatile composition and a second volatile composition. The first
volatile composition is emitted in an alternating period relative
to said second volatile composition. In one embodiment of the
method, the volatile compositions are alternately emitted during
periods that are greater than 15 minutes and less than 2 hours.
Inventors: |
Kvietok, Frank Andrej;
(Cincinnati, OH) ; St. Pierre, Eileen Marie;
(Cincinnati, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DIVISION
WINTON HILL TECHNICAL CENTER - BOX 161
6110 CENTER HILL AVENUE
CINCINNATI
OH
45224
US
|
Assignee: |
The Procter & Gamble
Company
|
Family ID: |
33309508 |
Appl. No.: |
10/417456 |
Filed: |
April 16, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10417456 |
Apr 16, 2003 |
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09904019 |
Jul 12, 2001 |
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09904019 |
Jul 12, 2001 |
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PCT/US00/20499 |
Jul 27, 2000 |
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09904019 |
Jul 12, 2001 |
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09730226 |
Dec 5, 2000 |
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6581915 |
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09904019 |
Jul 12, 2001 |
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09730261 |
Dec 5, 2000 |
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09904019 |
Jul 12, 2001 |
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09730333 |
Dec 5, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
422/123 ;
422/125 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01M 1/2038 20130101;
A61L 9/035 20130101; B60H 2003/005 20130101; A61L 9/037 20130101;
B60H 3/0007 20130101; A61L 9/14 20130101; A61L 9/048 20130101; A61L
9/04 20130101; A01M 1/2033 20130101; A61L 9/127 20130101; A01M
1/2072 20130101; A61L 9/122 20130101; A61L 9/02 20130101; A01M
1/2077 20130101; B60H 2003/0042 20130101; B60H 2003/0064 20130101;
A61L 9/042 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
422/123 ;
422/125 |
International
Class: |
A61L 009/14; A61L
009/02; A61L 009/03 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A system for emitting two or more volatile compositions, said
system comprising at least one device wherein said two or more
volatile compositions comprise a first volatile composition, a
second volatile composition, and optionally additional volatile
compositions, wherein said at least one device is configured to
emit said first, second, and optional additional volatile
compositions in a substantially continuous emission sequence in
which the emission of the different volatile compositions
automatically alternates between the different volatile
compositions in the sequence.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein at least one of said two or more
volatile compositions comprises a fragrance composition.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein two or more volatile compositions
comprise a fragrance composition.
4. The system of claim 1 wherein said two or more volatile
compositions are emitted from a single device.
5. The system of claim 4 wherein said at least one device comprises
a plug and said plug supports said at least one device on an
electrical outlet.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein said at least one device comprises
a single device comprising a housing, wherein said housing is
supported on an electrical outlet by a plug at least indirectly
joined to said housing, and said housing contains receptacles for
said volatile compositions.
7. The system of claim 1 wherein said two or more volatile
compositions are emitted from two or more devices.
8. The system of claim 7 wherein at least one of said devices
comprises a plug that is adapted to plug into an electrical wall
outlet and to support said at least one of said devices on a wall
by said plug.
9. The system of claim 7 wherein said two or more devices comprise
at least one aerosol sprayer.
10. The system of claim 7 wherein at least one of said two or more
devices further comprises a timer for timing the emission of at
least one of said volatile compositions.
11. The system of claim 7 wherein at least one of said two or more
devices further comprises a sensor for detecting a condition for
emitting at least one of said volatile compositions.
12. The system of claim 11 wherein said sensor is selected from the
group consisting of: motion sensors, light sensors, and noise
sensors.
13. The system of claim 7 wherein at least two of said two or more
devices are configured to communicate with each other.
14. The system of claim 1 wherein said at least one device further
comprises an indicator for informing the user of the device which
volatile material is being emitted.
15. The system of claim 14 wherein said indicator is selected from
the group consisting of: visual and audible.
16. The device for emitting two or more volatile compositions, said
device comprising a housing, wherein said housing is supported on
an electrical outlet by a plug at least indirectly joined to said
housing, and said housing contains receptacles for said volatile
compositions wherein said two or more volatile compositions
comprise a first volatile composition, a second volatile
composition, and optionally additional volatile compositions,
wherein said device is configured to emit said first, second, and
optional additional volatile compositions in a substantially
continuous emission sequence in which the emission of the different
volatile compositions automatically alternates between the
different volatile compositions in the sequence.
17. The device of claim 16 further comprising a heater in said
housing for volatilizing at least one of said volatile
compositions.
18. The device of claim 16 further comprising a fan in said housing
for dispersing at least one of said volatile compositions.
19. The device of claim 16 further comprising a heater and fan in
said housing for emitting at least one of said volatile
compositions.
20. The device of claim 16 wherein at least one of the volatile
compositions is in a liquid form.
21. The device of claim 20 wherein at least one of the volatile
compositions is supplied in a container provided with a wick.
22. The device of claim 21 further comprising at least one heater
wherein said at least one heater surrounds the wick of said
container.
23. The device of claim 22 wherein said at least one heater is
operated electrically.
24. The device of claim 16 further comprising a timing mechanism
wherein said volatile compositions are each emitted during a period
that is greater than 15 minutes and less than or equal to about 48
hours.
25. The device of claim 16 further comprising a control which
allows a user of the device to select a desired emission period
within the range of greater than 15 minutes and less than or equal
to about 24 hours.
26. The device of claim 16 wherein said volatile compositions are
emitted during a period that is less than or equal to about 15
minutes.
27. A device for emitting at least one volatile composition, said
device comprising a housing and a plug that is adapted to plug into
an electrical wall outlet and to support said device on a wall by
said plug, said device further comprising a detection device
wherein said detection device is programmed to turn on said device
in response to a stimulus.
28. The device of claim 27 wherein said detection device is
selected from the group consisting of: motion sensors, light
sensors, and noise sensors.
29. A system for emitting two or more volatile compositions, said
system comprising: (a) a first device capable of emitting one or
more volatile compositions comprising at least a first volatile
composition; (b) a second device capable of emitting one or more
volatile compositions comprising at least a second volatile
composition; and (c) optional additional devices capable of
emitting one or more optioinal additional volatile compositions;
wherein said first, second, and optional additional volatile
compositions are emitted in a substantially continuous emission
sequence in which the emission of the different volatile
compositions automatically alternates between the different
volatile compositions in the sequence.
30. A method for providing fragrance compositions for a system that
emits two or more fragrance compositions, said method comprising:
(a) providing a consumer with a selection of two or more fragrance
compositions, said fragrance compositions being provided in
containers wherein said containers are configured for use in one or
more emitting devices, or as stand alone articles; and (b)
providing some type of indicia to inform a consumer which of said
two or more fragrance compositions are compatible for use
together.
31. The method of claim 30 wherein said two or more fragrance
compositions are complementary, yet discernably different.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/904,019, filed Jul. 12, 2001, which claims
the benefit of the filing dates of, and is a continuation-in-part
of: PCT application Serial No. US00/20499, filed Jul. 27, 2000, and
U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 09/730,226; 09/730,261; and
09/730,333, all filed Dec. 5, 2000, the disclosures of which are
all incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to methods and devices for
emitting volatile compositions. In some embodiments, the invention
relates to a method and devices for emitting two or more distinct
volatile compositions.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] It is generally known to use an electrical device to
evaporate a perfume and/or fragrance composition into a space,
particularly a domestic space, e.g., a living room, to provide a
pleasant aroma. There are a variety of such devices on sale, for
example the AIRWICK.RTM. Diffuser ACTIF.RTM. (manufactured by
Reckitt Benckiser) or the AMBI-PUR.RTM. fragrance diffuser
(manufactured by Sara Lee). Generally, these devices consist of a
perfume or fragrance source, an electrical heater and a power
supply. By the application of heat to the perfume or fragrance
source, there will be a continuous supply of the perfume or
fragrance to the space in which the device is placed.
[0004] The problem with this arrangement is that a person occupying
the space will quickly become accustomed to the perfume or
fragrance and, after a while, will not perceive the fragrance
strength as being as intense and may not notice it at all. This is
a well-known phenomenon called habituation. A solution to this
problem has been sought.
[0005] One effort to deal with this problem is described in U.S.
patent application Publication No. US 2002/0159916 A1, Whitby, et
al. The Whitby, et al. patent application discloses a method and
device adapted to provide to a space, two or more fragrance
compositions, at least one of which fragrance compositions is
provided periodically. The method and device may provide a
continuous supply of a first fragrance composition and a periodic
supply of a second fragrance composition. The fragrance
composition(s) may be vaporized by heating and may include
deodorant and/or insecticidal compounds. The fragrance compositions
are preferably chosen such that the two fragrance compositions
contrast with one another or have different notes. The fragrance
composition is generally pulsed from a device which includes a
heater. The periodic supply of heat to release the fragrance
composition is controlled by providing the device, and particularly
the heater, with a controller. The controller is in the form of an
electronic circuit. The controller is arranged such that the heater
runs for a short period of time, preferably from 15 seconds to 15
minutes with "appropriate intervals of time there between".
[0006] The Whitby, et al. patent application, however, appears to
be directed primarily to maintaining or sustaining the olfactory
impact of the fragrance composition being emitted continuously,
rather than to providing to the user noticeable changes in
fragrances. In addition, although the Whitby, et al. patent
application mentions periodic supply of two or more fragrances,
there is no specific teaching of emission patterns or programs
dictating the supply of the different fragrances relative to each
other so that the users actually experience distinct fragrances
rather than one fragrance which is a blend of the two
compositions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention relates to methods and devices for
emitting volatile compositions. In some embodiments, the invention
relates to a method and devices for emitting two or more fragrance
compositions. There are numerous embodiments of the methods and
devices described herein, all of which are intended to be
non-limiting examples.
[0008] In some embodiments of the method, it may be desirable for
those who either experience the emission of the fragrance
composition(s), or who are in the presence of the device(s)
emitting fragrance composition(s), to experience and/or perceive a
pleasant scent all of the time. In other cases, this may not be all
of the time, but all of the time that such persons wish to perceive
a fragrance. In some embodiments in which the method is used to
emit two or more fragrance compositions, it may be desirable to
maximize the perceptibility of each of two or more separate and
distinct fragrance compositions. Thus, the method can do more than
merely prevent habituation to a given fragrance composition. In
such embodiments, therefore, it may be desirable for the time for
emission of the fragrances not to change too quickly, otherwise,
there will not be a perception of two different fragrances, but
rather a blended scent. In other embodiments, however, it may also
be desirable to provide a blended scent experience, for at least a
period of time.
[0009] In one embodiment of the method, the volatile compositions
are alternately emitted during discrete emission periods that are
greater than 15 minutes and less than or equal to 24 hours. The
device can automatically switch to alternate the volatile
composition being emitted. In other embodiments, the device may
emit volatile compositions for periods less than or equal to 15
minutes; or it may emit volatile compositions for periods greater
than 24 hours (e.g., 48 hours). Numerous other embodiments are
possible.
[0010] The method can utilize one or more devices. In one
embodiment that emits fragrance composition(s), a single device is
used that is a dual scented "plug-in" that switches back and forth
between two (or more) scents. This embodiment of the device has a
housing, and the housing is supported on an electrical outlet by a
plug at least indirectly joined to the housing. The device contains
a first volatile composition and a second volatile composition. The
first volatile composition is emitted in an alternating period
relative to said second volatile composition. Numerous other types
of devices are possible. For example, in other embodiments, the
method described herein can be carried out by two or more
dispensing devices. Such dispensing devices comprise any type of
dispensing device, including, but not limited to aerosol
sprayers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] While the specification concludes with claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed
that the present invention will be better understood from the
following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings in which:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment
of an emission program for emitting two volatile compositions.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment
of an emission program for emitting three (or more) volatile
compositions.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment
of an emission program for emitting two (or more) volatile
compositions where there is a gap between the emissions of the
volatile compositions.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment
of an emission program for emitting two (or more) volatile
compositions where there is an overlap of the emissions of the
volatile compositions.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting embodiment
of an emission program for emitting three (or more) volatile
compositions where there is an overlap of the emissions of one
volatile composition with the emission of two other volatile
compositions.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a partially fragmented schematic front view
showing one non-limiting embodiment of a device for emitting
volatile compositions.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a partially fragmented schematic side view of the
device shown in FIG. 6.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a schematic top view of the device shown in FIG.
6, showing the same adjacent to the cover plate of an electrical
outlet.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a printed circuit board that
can be used to control the device shown in FIGS. 6-8, along with
the heaters and plug that are attached thereto.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a schematic of the circuit shown in FIG. 9.
[0022] FIG. 11 shows two aerosol devices that operate on
timers.
[0023] FIG. 12 shows a single device comprising two aerosol
containers that operate on timers.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] The present invention relates to methods and devices for
emitting volatile compositions. In some embodiments, the invention
relates to methods and devices for emitting two or more volatile
compositions. There are numerous embodiments of the methods and
devices described herein, all of which are intended to be
non-limiting examples.
[0025] The methods for emitting volatile compositions can comprise
a variety of different embodiments. The two or more volatile
compositions can be fragrance compositions, compositions that
function as insecticides, air fresheners, deodorants, aromacology,
aromatherapy, insecticides, or any other material that acts to
condition, modify, or otherwise charge the atmosphere or to modify
the environment. The two or more volatile materials emitted in a
given embodiment of the method can be the same type of material
(e.g., two or more fragrance compositions), or they can be
different types of materials (e.g., fragrance compositions and air
fresheners). Deodorants, or malodor control compositions may
comprise a material selected from the group consisting of: odor
neutralizing materials, odor blocking materials, odor masking
materials, and combinations thereof. The methods can emit the
volatile compositions in a sequence in which the emission of the
different volatile compositions automatically alternates between
the different volatile compositions.
[0026] The volatile compositions can be emitted in any suitable
sequence. The sequence of emission of the volatile compositions can
be in a pattern, or it can be random. The term "pattern", as used
herein, refers to repeating sequences. In embodiments where the
sequence of emission of the different volatile compositions is
repeatable, the pattern can be repeated once, or any number of
times after the initial sequence. The term "random", as used
herein, refers to sequences in which the sequence of emission of
the volatile compositions does not repeat in a regular fashion. It
is also possible for an emission sequence to comprise a portion of
time where the sequence is in a pattern, and a portion of time in
which the sequence is random.
[0027] In some embodiments, two or more volatile compositions are
emitted in an alternating sequence. For example, there can be a
first volatile composition and a second volatile composition, and
the first volatile composition is emitted in an alternating period
relative to said second volatile composition. Thus, if the first
volatile composition is designated "1", and the second volatile
composition is designated "2", the volatile compositions can be
emitted in an alternating pattern as follows: 1, 2, 1, 2, . . . ,
etc. FIG. 1 shows such an emission program schematically. In FIG.
1, the diagram represents the periods during which that the
volatile compositions are being subjected to a source of energy (or
"activated") (for example, if they are in a device which has a
heater that heats the compositions, the diagram can designate the
periods of time that during which the heaters are on and off). If
there are three volatile compositions, they can be emitted in an
alternating pattern as follows: 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3, . . . , etc. as
shown in FIG. 2.
[0028] In viewing these figures (and the diagrams which follow), it
should be understood that these are non-limiting embodiments. In
other embodiments, there need not be a separate volatilization
source (such as a heater) for each volatile composition. There can
be any suitable number of volatilization sources for the volatile
compositions. For example, a single volatilization source can be
used to volatilize more than one volatile composition. Such a
volatilization source could, for example, be capable of moving to
volatilize the different volatile compositions, or it can be
capable of selectively directing energy (e.g., heat) to the
different volatile compositions (such as by opening and closing a
door or gate between the volatilization source and a given volatile
composition). Alternatively, containers can be movable relative to
the volatilization source (so that the containers can be
selectively moved over a heater, for example).
[0029] The term "interval", as used herein, refer to the shortest
period of time in the emission sequence. The term "discrete
emission period", as used herein, refer to the individual time
period that a given volatile material (or combination of volatile
materials) is emitted in the emission sequence. This may correspond
generally to the period of time that a heater, for example, is
turned on for a given volatile material or combination of volatile
materials (though there may be a slight lag between the operation
of a heater and the emission of a volatile material). The discreet
emission periods can also be referred to herein as a first time
period, a second time period, etc. (each of which has a beginning
and end). It should be understood that it is not necessary that the
different volatile compositions be emitted for equal time periods.
For example, after one volatile composition is emitted, a different
volatile composition can be emitted for a shorter, or
alternatively, a longer time period. In another example, the after
one volatile composition is emitted, it can be followed by another
interval of the same volatile composition before a different
volatile composition is emitted. In cases where the different
volatile compositions are not emitted for equal time periods, it
may be desirable to provide a greater amount of the compositions
that are emitted for a longer cumulative time period so that the
volatile compositions will be depleted at about the same time.
There are numerous possible alternating emission sequences. In the
case of three volatile compositions, non-limiting examples of some
other possible patterns of emission include, but are not limited
to: (1, 2 2, 1, 3 3); (1, 2, 3, 3, 2, 1); and (1, 2 2 2 2, 1 1, 3 3
3 3, 1).
[0030] In some embodiments of the method, the volatile compositions
can be emitted during a discrete emission period that is less than
or equal to about 15 minutes, but it may be more desirable for each
emission period to be longer than 15 minutes. In the case of
scented materials, longer time periods may be more desirable. In
one embodiment of the method, the volatile compositions are
alternately emitted during discrete periods that are each greater
than 15 minutes and less than or equal to about 12 hours, or less
than or equal to about 24 hours, or less than or equal to about 48
hours, or more. Every numerical range given throughout this
specification will include every narrower numerical range that
falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower
numerical ranges were all expressly written herein. Thus, in
another non-limiting embodiment, the volatile compositions are
alternately emitted during periods that are greater than 15
minutes, or greater than or equal to about 1 hour, and less than 2
hours. In one embodiment, each volatile composition is emitted for
a period of about 72 minutes.
[0031] The volatile compositions may be emitted so that one
immediately follows the end of the emission period of the other. In
other embodiments, the volatile compositions can be emitted so that
there is a gap between the end of the emission period of one of the
volatile compositions, and the beginning of the emission period of
another volatile composition. FIG. 3 is a diagram that shows one
non-limiting embodiment of an emission program for emitting two
volatile compositions where there is a gap between the emissions of
the volatile compositions where "g" designates a gap. In other
embodiments, the volatile compositions can be emitted so that there
is an overlap in the emission periods of two, or more volatile
compositions. FIG. 4 is a diagram that shows one non-limiting
embodiment of an emission program for emitting two volatile
compositions where there is an overlap of the emissions of the
volatile compositions where the symbol "&" designates an
emission period where both volatile compositions are being emitted.
FIG. 5 shows one non-limiting embodiment of an emission program for
emitting three (or more) volatile compositions where there is an
overlap of the emissions of one volatile composition with the
emission of two other volatile compositions. In other embodiments,
it is possible for one or more of the volatile compositions to be
emitted continuously, and another volatile composition to be
emitted for periods of time that are greater than 15 minutes.
[0032] If it is desirable to have a gap between the end of the
emission period of one of the volatile materials, and the beginning
of the emission period of another volatile material, the gap can be
of any suitable duration. Suitable durations include, but are not
limited any periods that are less than or equal to about 30
minutes. However, it is also possible to have gap periods of
greater than 30 minutes. If it is desirable to have an overlap in
the emission periods of two, or more volatile materials, the
overlap can be of any suitable duration. The emission period of a
subsequently emitted volatile material may overlap from greater
than 0% up to 100% of the time a first volatile material is being
emitted. In certain embodiments, for example, it may be desirable
for there to be an overlap of about 25% between different volatile
materials. For instance, instead of scent "A" being emitted for 60
minutes, followed by scent "B" being emitted for 60 minutes: scent
"A" can be emitted for 45 minutes; this can be followed by the
emission of both scents "A" and "B" for 30 minutes; and this
followed by scent "B" for 45 minutes. In this case, 30 minutes is
25% of the total time of the emission of scents "A" and "B" and the
combination thereof (or 120 minutes).
[0033] The gap or overlap periods can be controlled automatically.
In certain embodiments of the article(s) or device(s) used to emit
the volatile materials, the article(s) or device(s) can be provided
with controls to allow the user to control the duration of any gap
and/or overlap in emission periods. Overlapping sequences may be
used when it is desirable to have the user smell the blended scent
for some period as well as distinct scents during other
periods.
[0034] In certain embodiments, it is desirable for the method to be
carried out by article(s) and/or device(s) that are flameless
(e.g., not candles). In certain embodiments, it may also be
desirable for the method to be carried out independently of other
media (such other media may include, but is not limited to: movies,
television, etc.). In other embodiments, it may be desirable to
carry out the method in a coordinated fashion with other media.
[0035] There can be any suitable emission program or scheme for
emitting the volatile compositions. In certain embodiments where
scented materials are being emitted, it is desirable for the device
to provide an alternating scent experience, rather than a sustained
impression of a single scent. In one embodiment, it may be
desirable to provide a day/night emission program where one scent
is provided for waking a person, and another scent is provided for
the period of time during which they are trying to go to sleep.
Thus, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to deliver the same
scent at the same time every day. In other embodiments, it may be
desirable to avoid a routine scent experience. For example, it may
be desirable for the emission pattern to not be synchronized over a
24 hour period, so that the user has a different scent experience
at a given time during the day or night for each 24 hour period.
Numerous other embodiments are possible.
[0036] The total emission program (or simply "the emission
program") refers to the entire sequence of the discrete emission
periods from beginning to end. In certain embodiments, it is
desirable for the emission program to be continuous. The term
"continuous", as used in reference to the emission program, means
that there is a planned emission sequence over an entire period,
once the program is initiated. This emission program can include
periods, as noted above, where there are gaps in emission. This
will still be considered to be a continuous emission program,
although there will not necessarily be continuous emission of
volatile compositions. It should be understood, however, that it is
possible for the emission program to be interruptible by the user
(e.g., turned off), if desired. Thus, the method can provide a user
interface, and the user interface can provide a user with the
ability to interrupt emission program. In certain embodiments, the
emission program may be designed to run continuously, or
substantially continuously until at least one of the volatile
compositions is substantially depleted. In certain embodiments, it
is desirable for the emission program to run continuously until all
of the volatile compositions are substantially depleted, and for
this to occur at approximately the same time. The emission program
can be of any suitable length, including but not limited to 30
days, 60 days, or shorter or longer periods, or any period between
30 to 60 days.
[0037] FIGS. 6-8 show one non-limiting embodiment of a device 20
for emitting volatile compositions according to the methods
described above. The device can have a pre-selected emission
program which is already programmed when a consumer buys the
device, or the device can be provided with a selection of several
emission programs and the consumer can select between these
programs. In these or other embodiments, the device 20 can use
technology similar to the "random play" technology used in compact
disc (CD) players to randomly alternate between different volatile
materials.
[0038] As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the device 20 comprises a housing 22,
and the housing 22 is supported on an electrical outlet 24 by a
plug 26 that is at least indirectly joined to the housing 22. The
device 20 further comprises at least one container. In the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8, the device 20 comprises two
containers 28 and 30. The containers 28 and 30 contain at least a
first volatile composition 32 and a second volatile composition 34.
The housing 22 may serve as a holder for the containers 28 and 30
and any of the other components of the device described below.
[0039] The containers 28 and 30 can comprise any suitable type of
container, and can be made of any suitable material. Suitable
materials for the containers include, but are not limited to glass
and plastic. The containers 28 and 30 can comprise any type of
container that is suitable for holding volatile materials. The
containers 28 and 30 may be part of the housing 22, or they may be
separate components that are removably joined to a portion of the
device 20 such as the housing 22. It is also possible for a single
container to hold more than one type of volatile material. Such a
container could, for instance, have two or more compartments for
volatile materials. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8, the
containers 28 and 30 comprise two separate bottles.
[0040] The bottles comprising containers 28 and 30 in FIGS. 6-8
contain volatile compositions in the form of scented perfume oils.
The bottles further comprise a seal 36 for containing the volatile
material, and a wick 38 for dispensing the volatile material. The
device 20 and/or the bottles 28 and 30 may further comprise an
additional seal for covering the wick 38 of one or more of the
volatile materials when the volatile material is not being
emitted.
[0041] The term "volatile compositions" as used herein, refers to a
material or a discrete unit comprised of one or more materials that
is vaporizable, or comprises a material that is vaporizable. The
term "volatile compositions", thus, includes (but is not limited
to) compositions that are comprised entirely of a single volatile
material. The terms "volatile materials", "aroma", and "scents", as
used herein, include, but are not limited to pleasant or savory
smells, and, thus, also encompass materials that function as
insecticides, air fresheners, deodorants, aromacology,
aromatherapy, insecticides, or any other material that acts to
condition, modify, or otherwise charge the atmosphere or to modify
the environment. It should be understood that certain volatile
compositions including, but not limited to perfumes, aromatic
materials, and scented materials, will often be comprised of one or
more volatile materials (which may form a unique and/or discrete
unit comprised of a collection of volatile materials). It should be
understood that the term "volatile composition" refers to
compositions that have at least one volatile component, and it is
not necessary for all of the component materials of the volatile
composition to be volatile. The volatile compositions described
herein may, thus, also have non-volatile components. It should also
be understood that when the volatile compositions are described
herein as being "emitted", this refers to the volatilization of the
volatile components thereof, and does not require that the
non-volatile components thereof be emitted. The volatile
compositions of interest herein can be in any suitable form
including, but not limited to: solids, liquids, gels, encapsulates,
wicks, and carrier materials, such as porous materials impregnated
with or containing the volatile material, and combinations
thereof.
[0042] In the case of scented materials or fragrances, the
different scented materials can be similar, related, complementary,
or contrasting. It may not be desirable, however, for the scented
materials to be too similar if the different scented materials are
being used in an attempt to avoid the problem of scent habituation,
otherwise, the people experiencing the scents may not notice that a
different scent is being emitted. The different scents can be
related to each other by a common theme, or in some other manner.
For example, the different scents can all be floral, fruit scents,
etc. An example of scents that are different, but complementary
might be a vanilla scent and a French vanilla scent.
[0043] The present invention also comprises a method of providing
choices of compatible volatile compositions, such as fragrance
compositions, to consumers. In one embodiment, such a method
comprises providing fragrance compositions for use in one or more
emitting devices. More specifically, in one embodiment, the method
can comprise providing a consumer with a selection of two or more
fragrance compositions in containers that are configured for use in
one or more emitting devices; and providing some type of indicia to
inform a consumer which of the two or more fragrance compositions
are compatible for use together. In other embodiments, containers
can serve as the emitting devices (e.g., plug-in devices, aerosol
cans, etc.). In certain embodiments, the method can pre-select for
consumers two or more fragrance compositions that are
complementary, yet discernably different. In other alternative
embodiments, the method can comprise selling such different
volatile compositions together, such as in bundle packs of (two,
three, or more) volatile compositions. Any of the foregoing
embodiments may be used in supplying consumers with their initial
product(s), as well as with refills for the same. In certain
embodiments, the method may comprise supplying consumers with types
of volatile compositions other than, or in addition to, fragrance
compositions (for example, a fragrance composition and a malodor
reducing composition).
[0044] The embodiment of the device 20 shown in FIGS. 6-8 further
comprises a mechanism for activating the volatile materials from
their "resting" state to an activated state. Such a component may
include, but is not limited to a component that volatilizes or
heats the volatile materials. The device 20 may also contain a
component, such as a fan, for diffusing or transporting the
volatile materials into the environment or atmosphere. In various
embodiments, the device 20 may comprise a heater, a fan, or both,
or some other type of mechanism.
[0045] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8, the device 20
comprises at least one heating system or heater, such as heaters 40
and 42. The heaters 40 and 42 can comprise any suitable type of
heater, and can be located in any suitable location in or relative
to the device 20. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8, the heaters
40 and 42 comprise heating elements that are in the form of
circular rings that at least partially surround the wicks 38
protruding from the bottles of the volatile compositions.
[0046] The device 20 shown in FIGS. 6-8 further comprises a
switching mechanism 50 that changes the volatile material being
emitted by the device 20. The switching mechanism 50 can comprise
any suitable type of mechanism that causes the device to change the
volatile material being emitted. In the embodiment shown, the
switching mechanism controls the activation of the heaters so that
the heater will be turned on for the volatile material which is
desired to be emitted. Suitable switching mechanisms include, but
are not limited to: analog timing circuitry, digital circuitry,
combinations of analog and digital circuitry, microprocessors, and
mechanical actuation switches such as shape memory alloys (NiTi
wire) or bimetallic switches.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 9, in one non-limiting embodiment, the
switching mechanism 50 comprises a combination analog and digital
circuit in the form of a printed circuit board (or "PCB"). The
circuit comprises: a single sided PC board 52; a capacitor
designated C1; a pair of diodes D1 and D2; three transistors Q1,
Q2, and Q3; five resistors R1-R5; three counters U1, U2, and U3; a
third diode Z1. Any suitable type of heater can be used for heaters
40 and 42, including but not limited to resistance heaters (several
types of which are commercially available). The heaters 40 and 42,
as well as the wall power plug 26, are also connected to the
circuit board 52 by wires 66. Suitable components for circuit are
set out in the following table:
1TABLE 1 Reference Number or Letter Component Properties C1
Capacitor, 1 microF, 250 V Electrolytic D1, D2 Diode 1N4004, or
similar 26 WaIl power plug Q1, Q2, Q3 Transistors, NPN NPN 200 V,
200 mA R1-R5 Resistors 1/8 watt U1, U2, U3 Counters CD4024, or
similar Z1 Diode, Zener, 11 V 1N4741A, or similar
[0048] The components of the circuit may be through-hole or surface
mounted. In the embodiment shown, a 38.times.66 mm single sided PC
board 52 with through-hole components is used. The material
comprising the PC board 52 can be a standard material such as FR-4
epoxy base fiberglass, but any UL approved material is acceptable.
The wall power plug 26 is a molded wall plug with approximately 100
mm pigtails into the PC board. FIG. 10 is a schematic of the
circuit. This circuit provides a timing function that alternates
current between two paths over a time period of several tens of
hours, with a pre-selected time for each heater to be turned on and
off.
[0049] In other embodiments, the switching mechanism may include,
but is not limited to the following alternative types of switching
mechanisms: (1) a magnetic sensor with a pickup that counts the
number of rotations of the motor of a fan used to disperse the
volatile composition(s) such that after a certain number of
rotations, the device will switch from one volatile composition to
another; and (2) a device comprising dual shape memory alloys, or
bimetallic strips or switches that can complete a circuit at
ambient temperature and then cut-off when a certain temperature is
reached. The two-way effect can be used since as the temperature
lowers, the material can complete the circuit again, thus acting as
a thermostat to keep the heater on and then turn it off. The shape
memory alloy may serve as the heater as well as the pulse
generator.
[0050] The device 20 can comprise a number of additional optional
features. The device can be provided with indicators so that a
person is further made aware that the volatile material being
emitted has changed. Such indicators can be visual and/or audible.
For example, in the case of scented materials, such an indicator
may allow a person to see which scent is being emitted at a given
time. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-8, the indicators are in
the form of lights 70 and 72. In another example, at least a
portion of the device 20 (such as all or a portion of the housing)
or the containers may be made of a type of plastic that changes
color when heated.
[0051] The device can be provided with additional user controls.
The device can comprise an "on/off" switch to allow a user to turn
the device on and off without removing it from the electrical
socket. The device can be provided with a control that allows the
user to control the emission period of the volatile materials,
and/or the time between the emission of the different volatile
materials, or the time that the volatile materials are emitted
during an overlapping time period. For example, in one non-limiting
embodiment, if the device is provided with the capability of
emitting each volatile material during a period greater than 15
minutes and less than or equal to 24 hours, then the device can be
provided with a control that allows the user to set the emission
period to 72 minutes, or to one hour, for example.
[0052] The device can be battery powered so that it need not be
plugged into an electrical outlet. The device can also be
configured so that it can be both plugged in and powered by a
source of electrical current, and also battery powered. The device
can also be provided with an adapter so that it can be plugged into
the cigarette lighter in a vehicle. In addition, the device can be
provided with a remote control that allows the user to control any,
or all, of the emission properties of the device (including, but
not limited to changing the volatile material being emitted)
without touching the device.
[0053] The device can also be sold in the form of a kit that
includes the device and one or more containers of volatile
compositions. The device and/or kit can also include instructions
for use that instruct the user regarding certain emission periods
that may be used to produce certain results, and/or instructions
regarding where to place the device in a given space. For example,
the instructions may include instructions for setting the device
based on the size of the room, vehicle, etc. in which the device is
placed. Such instructions may also include instructions to the user
to chose more frequent changes between the emission of scented
materials for greater scent awareness. Instructions may also be
provided to specify how to operate the device relative to other
devices. The instructions can be provided in any suitable form,
e.g., written, audio, and/or video.
[0054] The device may comprise a microprocessor that has less
component parts compared to analog circuits, and improved circuit
quality from lot to lot. The microprocessor can allow the user to
program and control the temperature profile by modulation to alter
performance. If desired, the microprocessor may be connected to a
user interface. This can be any suitable type of user interface.
Examples of types of user interfaces include, but are not limited
to LCD screens and LED's. In addition, the microprocessor enables
components to allow multiple devices (such as those located in
different parts of a room, or in different rooms), to communicate
with each other. For example, the microprocessor can enable a
remote control to send digital signals via an infared beam to turn
another device "on" or "off".
[0055] Numerous other types of devices are possible. For example,
in other embodiments, the method described herein can be carried
out by two or more dispensing devices. Such dispensing devices
comprise any type of dispensing device, including, but not limited
to aerosol sprayers. FIG. 11 shows one non-limiting embodiment of
an arrangement of aerosol sprayers 80 and 82. The aerosol sprayers
used in such a method can function in any suitable manner. In some
embodiments, the aerosol sprayers may each operate independently,
such as on timers 84 so that they alternate the emission of the
volatile materials in the manner desired. The dispensing devices
can be powered in any suitable manner, such as by a battery 86. The
dispensing devices 80 and 82 may be located adjacent to each other,
or they may be located in different parts of the space in which it
is desired to emit the volatile materials. FIG. 12 shows another
non-limiting embodiment of a dispensing device 88. In FIG. 12, the
dispensing device 88 is a single device that comprises two (or
more) dispensers, such as aerosol sprayers 90 and 92. The device 88
may operate on one or more timers, or sensors 96, and can be
powered by one or more batteries, or other power sources.
[0056] In some embodiments, the devices can be configured to turn
on and off in response to some stimulus, such as by sensors that
respond to light, noise and/or motion. For example, one of the
devices can be set up to turn on when it senses light, and another
device can be set to turn off when it senses light. In another
example, a microprocessor can be used with motion sensors to turn
on the device (for example, a heater and/or a fan in the device).
For example, the device can be off all the time until a person
moves in the vicinity of the motion sensor. The device can then
turn on when a person walks in the vicinity of the motion sensor.
Using a microprocessor provides flexibility in controlling the
characteristics of the emission of the volatile materials. This is
because it is possible to replace the microprocessor if it is
desired to change the emission characteristics. Replacing the
microprocessor eliminates the need to modify the entire
circuit.
[0057] The disclosure of all patents, patent applications (and any
patents which issue thereon, as well as any corresponding published
foreign patent applications), and publications mentioned throughout
this description are hereby incorporated by reference herein. It is
expressly not admitted, however, that any of the documents
incorporated by reference herein teach or disclose the present
invention.
[0058] It should be understood that every maximum numerical
limitation given throughout this specification will include every
lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations
were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation
given throughout this specification will include every higher
numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were
expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout
this specification will include every narrower numerical range that
falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower
numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.
[0059] While particular embodiments of the subject invention have
been described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that
various changes and modifications of the subject invention can be
made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
In addition, while the present invention has been described in
connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be
understood that this is by way of illustration and not by way of
limitation and the scope of the invention is defined by the
appended claims which should be construed as broadly as the prior
art will permit.
* * * * *