U.S. patent application number 13/092588 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-27 for device for dispensing a personal care product.
Invention is credited to John Geoffrey Chan, David Matthew Groh, Theresa Louise Johnson, Lawrence Edward O'Brien.
Application Number | 20110259359 13/092588 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44814724 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110259359 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Groh; David Matthew ; et
al. |
October 27, 2011 |
Device For Dispensing A Personal Care Product
Abstract
A device for dispensing a personal care product onto skin
comprising: a brush head comprising a base and a plurality of
bristles, and a device body operatively connected to said brush
head about said base, said device body comprising: an outer
container; an at least partially expanded collapsible bag disposed
in the outer container, an elastic member surrounding at least a
portion of the collapsible bag such that the elastic member is
stretched axially and radially, the elastic member being
constructed of an elastically extensible material that permits the
transfer of infrared radiation through at least a portion of the
elastic member; at least one fluid dispensing conduit in fluid
communication with said collapsible bag, extending through said
base.
Inventors: |
Groh; David Matthew;
(Lebanon, OH) ; Johnson; Theresa Louise; (South
Lebanon, OH) ; Chan; John Geoffrey; (Maineville,
OH) ; O'Brien; Lawrence Edward; (Cincinnati,
OH) |
Family ID: |
44814724 |
Appl. No.: |
13/092588 |
Filed: |
April 22, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61328509 |
Apr 27, 2010 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
132/290 ;
401/169; 401/269 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 47/248 20130101;
A46B 11/0006 20130101; B65D 47/42 20130101; B65D 83/0061 20130101;
A46B 2200/1033 20130101; A46B 11/0041 20130101; A46B 2200/1046
20130101; B65D 83/285 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
132/290 ;
401/169; 401/269 |
International
Class: |
A45D 27/04 20060101
A45D027/04; A46B 11/02 20060101 A46B011/02; A45D 34/00 20060101
A45D034/00 |
Claims
1) A device for dispensing a personal care product onto skin
comprising: (a) a brush head comprising a base, and (b) a device
body operatively connected to said brush head about said base, said
device body comprising: (i) an outer container; (ii) an at least
partially expanded collapsible bag disposed in the outer container,
an elastic member surrounding at least a portion of the collapsible
bag such that the elastic member is stretched axially and radially,
the elastic member being constructed of an elastically extensible
material that permits the transfer of infrared radiation through at
least a portion of the elastic member; (c) at least one fluid
dispensing conduit in fluid communication with said collapsible
bag, extending through said base.
2) The device of claim 1, wherein said brush head further
comprises: a plurality of bristles, said plurality of bristles
having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein said distal end is
attached to the base and said proximal end forms a skin contacting
region.
3) The device of claim 2, wherein said plurality of bristles forms
at least one flow path from said distal end towards said proximal
end.
4) The device of claim 3, wherein said fluid dispensing conduit
extends at least partway into said at least one flow path formed in
said plurality of bristles.
5) The device of claim 1, further comprising a personal care
composition contained within said collapsible bag.
6) The device of claim 5, wherein said personal care composition
comprises at least one of a shaving preparation, a skin care
composition, an antifungal composition, an antimicrobial
composition, a wound healing composition, and an enzyme inhibiting
composition.
7) The device of claim 6, wherein the personal care composition has
a product form selected from the group consisting of gels, post
foaming gels, creams, foaming and non-foaming liquids, mechanically
pumpable liquids, non-aerosol gels, aerosol gels, aerosol foams,
pastes, serums, and sprays
8) The device of claim 6, wherein said shaving preparation
comprises a post foaming gel.
9) The device of claim 1, wherein the collapsible bag comprises at
least one section having a wall thickness of less than about 100
micrometers.
10) The device of claim 1, wherein the collapsible bag has an open
end and a closed end opposite said open end, and the elastically
extensible band comprises a first end proximate the bag open end
and a second end that is joined to the bag proximate the bag closed
end.
11) The device of claim 1, wherein the elastic member is joined to
the collapsible bag by at least one of an adhesive, a mechanical
fastener, or a combination thereof.
12) The device of claim 1, wherein the elastic member exerts a
hydrostatic pressure of between 135 and 480 kilopascals on the
collapsible bag.
13) The device of claim 1, wherein at least 95% of the personal
care composition disposed in the collapsible bag is dispensed when
the product is operatively exhausted.
14) The device of claim 1, wherein the elastic member has a
stretched length and an unstretched length, and the stretched
length is at least 50% greater than the unstretched length.
15) The device of claim 1, wherein the collapsible bag includes a
bag open end and a bag closed end, the article further comprising a
valve member disposed in the bag open end, the valve member
providing a flow path for the flowable composition to flow out of
the collapsible bag.
16) The device of claim 15, wherein the valve member includes a
rigid insert and a flexible body member operatively configured to
provide an openable/closable flowpath through the valve member.
17) The device of claim 16, wherein the valve member includes a
blind hole and at least one through hole passing through the side
wall.
18) The device of claim 17, wherein the valve member forms two
through holes diametrically opposed to one another forming a
diametric orifice.
19) The device of claim 1, further comprising a depressible
button
20) A device for dispensing a personal care product onto skin
comprising: (a) a brush head comprising a base, and (b) a device
body operatively connected to said brush head about said base, said
device body comprising: (i) an outer container; (ii) an at least
partially expanded collapsible bag disposed in the outer container,
an elastic member surrounding at least a portion of the collapsible
bag such that the elastic member is stretched axially and radially,
the elastic member being constructed of rubber; (c) at least one
fluid dispensing conduit in fluid communication with said
collapsible bag, extending through said base, (d) wherein the
collapsible bag has an open end and a closed end opposite said open
end, and the elastically extensible band comprises a first end
proximate the bag open end and a second end that is joined to the
bag proximate the bag closed end (e) wherein the personal care
composition is a shave preparation in the form of a non-aerosol
gel.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/328,509 filed Apr. 27, 2010.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The use of brushes on dispensing containers is known.
Nonlimiting examples of known dispersers and brushes are available
in: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,003,523, 4,603,992, and 4,252,455; and U.S.
Patent Pubs. 2009/0263175, 2009/0263174, 2008/0317544, 2006/110210,
and 2005/0045200.
[0003] Conventional brush dispensers devices, however, typically
use conventional valves which can require multiple parts and be
costly and complex to assemble Nonlimiting examples of known valve
systems used in aerosol include: U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,357,604;
3,477,613; 3,586,068; 3,817,429; 3,845,887; 4,122,982; 5,427,282;
6,006,745; and 6,474,513. Some of valve systems have even been
disclosed as one piece grommets or seals made of rubber or other
synthetic materials. See e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,008,834; 6,113,070;
and 6,918,516. Many attempts to use rubber parts in the dispensing
system, however, relate to tips and applicators.
[0004] Further, many dispensing systems rely on aerosol
technologies which typically use blowing agents or other
pressurized gases, or metered pump systems. An approach has been
developed which appears to offer controlled dispensing similar to
aerosols, but without many of the negatives associated with the
pump. This approach includes a collapsible container surrounded by
an elastomeric band. A normally closed valve and an actuator
assembly are affixed to the container. When the container is
initially filled with product, it expands along with the
surrounding elastomeric band. Potential energy is generated as the
elastomeric band stretches. And when the actuator is operated to
open the valve, the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy
to dispense product out of the container until the actuator is
disengaged. Examples of such a dispensing system are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,964,540 and 5,232,126. The predominant expansion
and contraction of the elastomeric band in these systems is in the
radial direction. As a result, a significant amount of product can
be trapped in the closed end of the container.
[0005] Despite these and other attempts, there remains a need for a
new package for dispensing a personal care product which provides
suitable product dispersal into and/or onto the brush head.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides for a device
for dispensing a personal care product onto skin comprising: a
brush head comprising a base and a plurality of bristles, and a
device body operatively connected to said brush head about said
base, said device body comprising: an outer container; an at least
partially expanded collapsible bag disposed in the outer container,
an elastic member surrounding at least a portion of the collapsible
bag such that the elastic member is stretched axially and radially,
the elastic member being constructed of an elastically extensible
material that permits the transfer of infrared radiation through at
least a portion of the elastic member; at least one fluid
dispensing conduit in fluid communication with said collapsible
bag, extending through said base.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIGS. 1A-1C are cross-section views of an embodiment of a
skin care product.
[0008] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-section view of a valve member
inserted into an opening of a container preform.
[0009] FIG. 3 is a side view of an exemplary container preform.
[0010] FIG. 4 is a cross-section view of the exemplary container
preform shown in FIG. 3.
[0011] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary polymeric
preform.
[0012] FIG. 6 is a side view of the exemplary polymeric preform
shown in FIG. 5.
[0013] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment
of a container preform.
[0014] FIG. 8 is a side view of a skin care product.
[0015] FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of the skin care product of
FIG. 8.
[0016] FIGS. 10A and 10B are side views of two exemplary tubes.
[0017] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a container.
[0018] FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate exemplary dimensional changes
that may occur after transitioning a container preform into a
collapsible bag.
[0019] FIG. 14 is an example of a personal care product which can
include the elastically extensible, tube in sleeve type of
dispenser described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The present personal care product utilizes an elastically
extensible, tube-in-sleeve type of dispenser to provide a
convenient and environmentally friendly way to apply a personal
care composition to skin. The tube-in-sleeve type dispenser
disclosed herein is capable of dispensing substantially all of the
skin composition stored therein (e.g., more than 90%; 92%; 93%;
94%; 95%; or, ideally, 100%) and does not require undesirable
chemical propellants. Additionally, the present tube-in-sleeve type
dispenser is capable of desirably dispensing the stored personal
care composition in a variety of container positions (e.g.,
upside-down, right-side-up, or sideways). Since the present
personal care product does not need to be highly pressurized like
an aerosol dispenser, the personal care composition may be
dispensed at a temperature which is not substantially different
than the ambient temperature of the surrounding environment.
Surprisingly, it has also been found that the present personal care
product provides the unexpected benefit of being substantially
cheaper to manufacture than commonly known aerosol and pump
dispensers. Non-limiting examples of suitable dispensing brushes
have been described in U.S. Patent Publ. Nos. 2009/0263175,
2009/0263174.
[0021] Certain properties described herein may include one or more
ranges of values. It is to be understood that these ranges include
every value within the range, even though the individual values in
the range may not be expressly disclosed.
[0022] "Axial" means the direction generally corresponding to the
lengthwise direction of an article.
[0023] "Collapsible" and variations thereof mean that the volume of
an article or component (e.g., a collapsible bag or other flexible
container) can be reduced by at least 50% but less than 100% (e.g.,
60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 98%, or even 99%), relative to its volume
in an expanded state, by an externally applied pressure of between
100 kPa and 600 kPa (e.g., 200-400 kPa, 260-340 kPa; or even 300
kPa) without substantial degradation of the performance of the
article or component or damage to surrounding components that would
impair the article's continued use.
[0024] "Compromised skin" means skin that is afflicted with a skin
ailment such as one or more of the skin ailments disclosed
herein.
[0025] "Elastic" and "elastically extensible" mean the ability of a
material to stretch by at least 50% without rupture or breakage at
a given load, and upon release of the load the elastic material or
component exhibits at least 80% recovery (i.e., has less than 20%
set). For example, an elastic material that has an initial length
of 100 mm can stretch to at least 150 mm (50% stretch) and, upon
removal of the force, retract to a length of 110 mm (i.e., have a
set of 10 mm or 10%). Stretch, sometimes referred to as strain,
percent strain, or elongation, along with recovery and set may each
be determined according to a suitable hysteresis test commonly
known in the art. It is to be understood; however, that this
definition of elastic does not apply to materials that do not have
the proper dimensions (e.g., not wide enough) to be properly
subjected to a suitable hysteresis test. Instead, such material is
considered to be elastic if it can stretch to at least 50% upon
application of a biasing force, and return substantially to its
original length (i.e., exhibit less than 20% set) upon release of
the biasing force.
[0026] "Expandable" and variations thereof mean that the volume of
an article or component (e.g., a polymeric preform or collapsible
bag) can be increased by at least 50% up to 1000 times (e.g., 100%;
400%; 800%; 1200%; 2000%; 6000% or more) its volume in a relaxed or
collapsed state, without rupture or breakage of the element. For
example, a preform may have an initial volume of 10 ml, but when
expanded (e.g., by filling with a gas and/or a personal care
composition) the volume is increased to 1 liter.
[0027] "Extensible" means the ability to stretch or elongate,
without rupture or breakage, by at least 50%.
[0028] "Infrared" or "infrared light" ("IR") means electromagnetic
radiation having a wavelength of between 700 nanometers ("nm") and
1 millimeter ("mm").
[0029] "Joined" means configurations whereby an element is directly
secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the
other element, and configurations whereby an element is indirectly
secured to another element by affixing the element to intermediate
member(s) that in turn are affixed to the other element.
[0030] "Latherable" as used herein refers to a personal care
product that is able to form a foam or froth when agitated or
spread onto the skin. The liquid personal care product may lather
by entrapping air, by comprising a surfactant-type substance, or by
another means known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Water
addition may or may not be necessary to obtain a foam or froth, but
it may enhance benefits or results depending on the type of product
used. Agitation or spreading may be by hand, but is preferably by
applicator. Agitation or spreading may be rapid or slow, and may
comprise irregular and regular movements. The term "lathering" as
used herein refers to the act of agitating or spreading onto the
skin a personal care product to produce a foam or froth. For
instance, a product may be dispensed as a gel and then lathered
into a foam. If a product is already in the form of a foam or froth
when dispensed from its package, lathering may comprise spreading
product onto the skin to cover an area of skin.
[0031] "Plastic" and "plastically extensible" mean the ability of a
material to stretch by at least 50% without rupture or breakage at
a given load and upon release of the load the material or component
exhibits at least 20% set (i.e., recovers less than 80%). For
example, an extensible material that has an initial length of 100
mm can stretch at least to 150 mm (50% stretch) and, upon removal
of the applied force, retract to a length of 35 mm (i.e., have a
set of 35 mm (35% set), when subjected to a suitable hysteresis
test commonly known in the art.
[0032] "Operatively exhausted" means that a composition contained
in a container is depleted such that the container is no longer
able to dispense the composition as intended. By way of example, a
container is initially filled to capacity with a personal care
composition (i.e., is 100% full) and then the composition is
dispensed until less than 5% of the initial amount, but greater
than 0%, remains, at which time the container ceases to dispense
any more of the composition. In this example, even though there is
still some amount of residual composition remaining in the
container, the container is operatively exhausted. It is to be
appreciated that a container may be operatively exhausted and still
dispense composition, if the composition is not dispensed as
intended (e.g., exit pressure is too low, sputtering, dripping and
the like). Ideally, the personal care product disclosed herein will
dispense substantially all of the composition stored in it before
being operatively exhausted.
[0033] "Preform" means a material, element, component, or article
that has undergone preliminary shaping but is not yet in its final
form.
[0034] "Radial" means the direction perpendicular to the axial
direction, and generally corresponds to the widthwise direction of
an article.
[0035] "Relaxed" means the state of an element, material or
component at rest with substantially no external force acting on
the element, other than gravity.
1) Dispensing Device
[0036] a) Brush Head
[0037] The device of the present invention comprise a brush head.
The brush head comprises: a base, and a plurality of bristles, said
plurality of bristles having a distal end and a proximal end,
wherein said distal end is attached to the base and said proximal
end forms a skin contacting region. The device comprise a flow path
from the contents contained in the collapsible bag through the
brush base into the fluid dispensing conduit and optionally into a
region of lower bristle density formed in said brush head.
[0038] In one embodiment, the distal end has a greater bristle
density than the proximal end; and wherein said plurality of
bristles forms at least one flow path from said distal end towards
said proximal end. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is
believed that the bristle density being greater at the distal end
than at the proximal end facilitates the transport of composition
from the distal end to the proximal end of the bristles. This
feature results in a brush that is easier to use, with reduce
messiness. The brush of the present invention is also easier to
clean, as only small amounts of composition are able to enter the
distal end of the bristles, thus removing the need to remove these
materials. As the proximal end is less dense, cleaning on this end
is further facilitated by this end of the bristles.
[0039] Further, in one embodiment, at least a portion of the flow
path is formed by a discrete region of low bristle population. A
region of low bristle population means that within said discrete
region, the number of bristles per area is measurably lower than
the bristles per area surrounding at the region as the brush
extends from the base towards the skin contacting region which is
the proximal end of the bristles. In one embodiment, the number of
bristles per area is at least about 20% less, alternatively at
least about 40% less, alternatively at least about 50% less,
alternatively at least about 75% less than the number of bristles
per area surrounding the region. Bristle population can be
calculated on by square mm or square cm of area. In one embodiment,
the region of low bristle density is free or essentially free of
bristles. By "essentially free of bristles" it is meant that no
bristles for formed in the region. It will be understood by those
in the art that bristles are flexible and can bend into the region
intended as the flow path. Allowing bristles to bend into the flow
path is within the scope of the invention. In one embodiment, the
flow path maintains a substantially consistent shape from the base
to the skin contacting region.
[0040] In one embodiment, the flow path from the collapsible bag
through the brush also comprises one or more fluid dispensing
conduits which can extend for a portion of said flow path. In one
embodiment the fluid dispensing conduit forms the portion of the
flow path as it immediately exits the dispensing container and
extends for some distance above the base but below the contacting
region. Those of skill in the art will understand that the flow
path can continue beyond the fluid dispensing conduit as the brush
extends away from the base. Without intending to be bound by
theory, it is believed by providing a flow path which is made of
both a fluid dispensing conduit and a region of low bristle
population, the brush head facilitates the transport of composition
from the base to the skin contacting region. In one embodiment, the
region of low bristle population is in fluid communication with
said fluid dispensing conduit such that composition dispensed
through said fluid dispensing conduit continues to travel the same
general path away from the base. In one embodiment, the fluid
dispensing conduit is made from an elastomeric material which is
flexible, such as rubber.
[0041] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the fluid
dispensing conduit can have an interior structure run for at least
a portion of the length of the fluid dispensing conduit.
Non-limiting examples of suitable interior structures includes one
or more dividing wall, thereby creating two half circles within the
tube, or three, or four passages within the fluid dispensing
conduit. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed
that providing said one or more dividing walls can help direct flow
of the composition away from the base towards the exit orifice,
ultimately towards the skin contact region of the brush head. In
one embodiment, said one or more dividing walls can create a tube
within a tube. This may be particularly useful if multiple types of
compositions are used in the container.
[0042] Non-limiting examples of suitable brush heads are disclosed
in US Patent Publ. No. 2009/0263175, 2009/0263174, 2006/110210, and
2005/0045200.
[0043] b) Brush Base
[0044] The base of the current invention can be made of any
material capable of functionally attaching bristles. In one
embodiment, the base is made from a material selected from plastic,
metal, composites, porcelain, glass, or combinations thereof. One
of ordinary skill would be readily able to select a material
suitable for making a base.
[0045] The base of the current invention is functionally attached
to the distal end of the plurality of bristles. One of ordinary
skill recognizes that there are many attachment mechanisms that may
be employed to fix the plurality of bristles to the base. It is
contemplated that the bristles are attached to the base by
mechanical, chemical, and/or heat based mechanisms. One of ordinary
skill would readily know how to attach the bristles of the present
invention to the base.
[0046] In one embodiment, the base is functionally attached to a
container. The container of the present invention relates to any
vessel that can hold a composition for an indefinite period of
time. The container of the present invention may be made by any
number of materials, including plastics, metals, and the like. The
container contains any composition that is to be applied with the
brush. In one embodiment, the brush is removably attached to the
container. In such an embodiment, the composition is directly
applied to the skin and/or the brushed is placed in the composition
within the container and applied to the surface.
[0047] An alternate embodiment of the base comprises a dispensing
device. The dispensing device is fluidly attached to the base and
capable of transmitting a composition outside of the container
through the base between the plurality of bristles whereby the
composition is capable of being applied to a surface. In one
embodiment, the dispensing device is capable of dispensing the
composition in a direction that is substantially parallel to the
plurality of bristles. In an alternate embodiment, dispensing
device is capable of dispensing the composition in a direction that
is substantially non-parallel to the plurality of bristles.
Moreover, the dispensing device is capable of dispensing the
composition in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to
the plurality of bristles. It is believed that when the composition
is dispensed in a manner substantially perpendicular to the
plurality of bristles, the delivery of the composition within the
bristles of the brush becomes more uniform in addition to providing
the composition additional air entrainment opportunities. Further,
the transport of the composition through the plurality of bristles
is aided by the bristle density driving the composition to the
proximal end of the plurality of bristles, as well as the
hydrophobic nature of the bristles.
[0048] c) Brush Shape
[0049] The brush of the present invention has a shape that
facilitates usage, particularly on the face. In one embodiment, the
outer shape of the cross-section of the brush, as defined by
determining the cross-section of the bristles parallel to the base
of the brush, is oblong in shape. By being oblong in shape, the
cross-section has a first dimension that is longer than a second
dimension, e.g., an overall length longer than the width. Oblong
shapes include oval, oblong circles, rectangles, ellipses, and the
like. In another embodiment, the outer shape of the cross-section
of the brush is a circle, square, or regular polygon. It is
contemplated that the corners of any polygon could be rounded.
Other shapes, such as a "D" shape are also contemplated.
[0050] In one embodiment the proximal end of the brush is
substantially parallel to the base. In an alternate embodiment, the
proximal end of the brush comprises its highest bristles
substantially in the center. The bristles then decrease in height
from the center toward the edges in a curvilinear, stepped, angled,
and/or arched manner. In one embodiment, the difference between the
average height of the bristles in the center of the brush and the
average height of the bristles on the edge of the brush is from
about 0.1 inches to about 0.5 inches, in an alternate embodiment
from about 0.1 inches to about 0.3 inches. It is believed that
having bristles of decreasing height allows the user to vary the
amount of bristles that contact the surface by varying the
application force. Such a mechanism results in an increase in
mechanical action, leading to increased lather generation by the
brush.
[0051] It is also contemplated to have a substantially angled edge,
such as a squared edge, on at least one portion of the brush. Such
an edge is capable of providing increased control of the brush
action by being shaped to enter into tighter portions of a
surface.
[0052] d) Bristles
[0053] The current invention includes a plurality of bristles.
These the distal end of the plurality of bristles is functionally
attached to the base. In one embodiment, at least one of said
plurality of bristles comprises a hydrophobic material. In another
embodiment, at least one of said plurality of bristles comprises
hydrophilic material. In yet another embodiment, the plurality of
bristles comprises a material selected from the group consisting of
a hydrophobic material, a hydrophilic material, and a mixture
thereof. Particularly preferred materials would be those which are
hydrophobic, especially when the composition is water based.
Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the
hydrophobic nature of the plurality of bristles, in combination
with the plurality of bristles having a greater bristle density at
the distal end than at the proximal end, work synergistically to
transport composition toward the proximal end of the plurality of
bristles and onto a surface. This composition transport results in
an improved brush usage experience as well as a more efficient and
clean brush operation.
[0054] In one embodiment, any hydrophilic material is selected to
make the plurality of bristles. Hydrophilic plastics are well
suited for the current invention. In one embodiment, nylon is a
hydrophilic plastic utilized for the plurality of bristles. In one
embodiment, the hydrophobic material used to make at least a
portion of said at least one bristle is selected from the group
consisting of nylon, a natural hair (including but not limited to
badger hair), and polybutylene terephthalene. Other known brush
bristle materials may also be used.
[0055] Regarding the use of bristles, material and physical
properties of bristles can impact brush performance, including skin
feel and latherability, for example. In one embodiment, the bristle
diameters are from about 0.001 to about 0.01 inches, in an
alternate embodiment from about 0.002 to about 0.006 inches, in
alternate embodiment from about 0.003 to about 0.004 inches. The
bristles of the present invention have an average length of from
about 0.1 to about 1.3 inches, in an alternate embodiment from
about 0.3 to about 1.0 inches, in an alternate embodiment from
about 0.5 to about 0.9 inches. The sizing of the bristles should be
such that the bristles should not fold over or collapse during use;
while allowing the bristles to return to substantially their
original shape.
[0056] In one embodiment, the brush comprises a recess at the skin
contacting region of the brush similar to the cavity described in
U.S. Patent No. 2005/0045200 to Zeunik. In one embodiment, the
composition flow path extends from said base and discharges into
said recess. The recess is a discrete region of the brush where the
height of the underlying bristles is lower than the average length
of the rest of the bristles forming the rest of the brush. As such,
a recess in the brush is formed. Without intending to be bound by
theory, it is believed that that allowing composition to travel
from the container through the base and ultimately into the recess
allows the user to dispense a desired amount of composition without
fear that the composition will spill over or fall off the tip of
the brush. In one embodiment, the recess is formed by crimping a
plurality of said bristles such that they do not extend as far from
the base as the bristles surrounding the recess. In another
embodiment, the recess is formed by a combination of crimped
bristles or relatively shorter bristles.
[0057] In one embodiment, the fluid dispensing conduit comprises a
dispensing orifice which opens into the portion of said recess
facing said base. The dispensing orifice can be formed by part of
the fluid dispensing conduit or formed from the region of low
bristle population. In one embodiment, the he recess has a depth of
from about 0.010 inch to about 1 inch, alternatively from about
0.05 inches to about 0.5 inches, alternatively from about 0.2
inches to about 0.4 inches. Those of skill in the art will
understand that the dimensions of the recess can be varied as long
as the recess can act to receive a volume of composition prior to
contact with skin. In one embodiment, the recess has a shape which
is selected from the group consisting of a circle, ellipse, oval,
triangle, square, rectangle, star, moon, a letter or number, and so
forth. In one embodiment, the shape of the recess is generally the
same as the shape of the brush.
[0058] In one embodiment, the brush head had a central axis, and a
cross sectional plane which is perpendicular to said central axis,
wherein the cross sectional plane defines a recess cross section
area and a brush cross section area, wherein the recess cross
section area is from about 10% to about 75% of said brush cross
section area, alternatively from about 25% to about 50%,
alternatively from about 30% to about 40%.
[0059] In one embodiment, the plurality of bristles forms said
fluid flow path. In one embodiment the fluid flow path comprises a
fluid dispensing conduit, a region which is free or essentially
free of bristles, or a combination thereof.
[0060] Various treatments of the proximal end of the plurality of
bristles are contemplated for use with this brush. In one
embodiment, end rounding, tipping, tapering, and the like are used
to provide a user acceptable feel to the plurality of bristles.
[0061] It is contemplated that bristles of various hues and/or
colors can be utilized within brush. For example, colors may serve
the function of showing where bristles of increasing and/or
decreasing hardness are. Colors may also be used to indicate brand,
brand name, style, and/or other aesthetic measures. Color may also
be used to indicate the benefit of the associated composition,
e.g., green bristles for indicating aloe, and the like.
[0062] e) Bristle Density
[0063] The brush of the present invention comprises a plurality of
bristles, wherein the bristle density of the distal end is greater
than the bristle density of the proximal end. The bristle density
is determined by determining the sum of the cross-sectional area of
the individual bristles and dividing it by the cross-section
defined by the outermost bristles, which inherently includes void
space between the bristles; then determining the percentage.
[0064] As an exemplary calculation, for a circular patch having a
0.2 inch radius containing 10,000 bristles, each bristle having a
diameter of 0.002 inches, the bristle density would be calculated
as follows:
0.002 inch diameter/2=0.001 inch radius
(radius of one bristle)
pi*0.001 2=0.00000314 inches 2
(cross-sectional area of one bristle.fwdarw.pi*(bristle radius)
2)
0.00000314*10,000=0.0314 inches 2
(cross-sectional area of 10,000 bristles.fwdarw.cross-sectional
area of single bristle*the total number of bristles)
Pi*0.2 2=0.126 inches 2
(total area including bristles and void areas.fwdarw.pi*(radius of
circular patch) 2)
0.0314/0.126*100=25%
(bristle density.fwdarw.cross-sectional area of 10,000
bristles/total area*100)
[0065] In one embodiment, the bristle density is greater at the
distal end than it is at the proximal end. In one embodiment, the
bristle density at the distal end of the plurality of bristles is
from greater than 30 to about 80%, in an alternate embodiment from
about 35 to about 70%, in an alternate embodiment from about 40 to
about 60%, in an alternate embodiment from about 45 to about 55%.
In one embodiment, the bristle density at the proximal end of the
plurality of bristles is from 10 to at most 30%, in an alternate
embodiment from about 15% to about 28%, in an alternate embodiment
from about 19 to about 26%.
[0066] One mechanism to create additional voids within the bristles
is to splay or flair out the bristles. In one embodiment, splay is
created by utilizing wavy or crimped bristles as at least part of
the plurality of bristles. Crimped bristles are bristles having a
substantially periodic waveform with a crimp depth (peak to peak
amplitude, from peak to trough) and crimp frequency. The crimped
bristle comprises a crimp depth from about 0.005 inch to about 0.03
inches, alternatively from about 0.010 inch to about 0.020 inch.
The crimped bristles comprise a crimp frequency of from about 2 to
about 10 crimps per inch, alternatively from about 3 to about 7
crimps per inch.
[0067] Without wishing to be bound by theory it is believed that
the larger space between crimped bristles allows each bristle to
fluctuate further when the brush is being rubbed against the
intended surface. This space allows the bristles to provide
increased mechanical action and enhances the aeration of the
composition. When used with a shaving composition, this mechanical
action crates additional lather, lifts the hair on the surface for
easier cutting, and aids exfoliation of the skin.
[0068] f) Fluid Dispensing Conduit
[0069] The device of the present invention comprises at least one
fluid dispensing conduit. The dispensing nozzle is in fluid
communication with said collapsible bag, extending through said
base, allowing the composition to be dispensed out of the device.
In one embodiment, a portion of the fluid dispensing conduit forms
a tube which can be used to actuate and facilitate fluid pass
through from the valve system into the fluid dispensing
conduit.
[0070] In one embodiment, the fluid dispensing conduit is the
dispensing conduits as generally described in U.S. Ser. No.
61/247,388, Applicant Docket No. 11461P, filed Sep. 30, 2009. In
one embodiment, the fluid dispensing conduit is a dispensing
conduit comprising a central longitudinal axis, a proximal end and
a distal end, wherein the proximal end comprises an inlet that is
in fluid communication with the body, wherein the distal end
extends from the applicator base, wherein said distal end
comprising at least one orifice, wherein said central longitudinal
axis does not intersect said at least one orifice.
[0071] g) Device Body
[0072] Device body comprising: an outer container; an at least
partially expanded collapsible bag disposed in the outer container,
an elastic member surrounding at least a portion of the collapsible
bag such that the elastic member is stretched axially and radially,
the elastic member being constructed of an elastically extensible
material that permits the transfer of infrared radiation through at
least a portion of the elastic member; a fluid dispensing conduit
in fluid communication with said collapsible bag, extending through
said base. Additional suitable devices for dispensing a product
having a brush are described in detail in U.S. Patent Pubs.
2009/0263175, 2009/0263174.
[0073] The device body may generally include a collapsible bag and
a band surrounding at least a portion of the bag. In one exemplary
embodiment, the bag has a length that is at least about 50% longer
than the length of the band. In another exemplary embodiment, the
band is constructed of material that permits the transfer of
invisible light waves through a wall of the band--this enables
invisible light to pass through the band when situated around a bag
preform to heat the preform prior to blowing the same into a final
bag configuration. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the bag
comprises at least one section (such as a side wall) having a wall
thickness less than about 4 mils, or less than about 2 mils, and
even as low as about 1 mil. In a further embodiment, the bag is
made from an injection molding grade polyester having an intrinsic
viscosity value of from about 0.5 to about 1.0, or about 0.58. In
one preferred embodiment, the band is affixed to the bag; e.g., by
chemical means, or via mechanical means beyond mere friction.
Nonlimiting examples of suitable ways to affix the band to the bag
include using shrink sleeves or over-molding a retaining ring/band
made out of composite materials to secure the elastically
deformable band to the preform. The device may be adapted to
dispense multiple products by way of a multi-chambered bag.
[0074] Unfilled and filled devices are also provided by the present
invention. The package can include an outer container and a device
in accordance with the present invention disposed therein. The
outer container can employ various features. In one embodiment the
outer container is selected from the group consisting of: a blow
molded plastic container, an injection molded container, a glass
container, a flexible packaging, a paper or cellulosic packaging; a
rubber container, or a combination or mixture thereof. For example,
the outer container may take on a variety of shapes and geometries
that are not traditionally employed with aerosol products. The
containers may have reduced diameter sections, have tapered
sections, or be oval or square, for example. The outer containers
may be transparent, translucent, or employ windows that permit a
user to see how much product remains in the package (through
changes to the appearance of the device) to understand when
replacement products should be purchased. For embodiments where one
can see at least a portion of the device, the device may employ
colors and/or indicia to communicate aspects of the product
contained therein. In some embodiments, the outer container may not
completely enclose the device. That is, the outer container may
form only parts of an outer covering for aesthetic and/or
functional features, such as, for example, a base or legs for the
device, or a handle for the device. The outer container may be
rigid or may be flexible, or have portions having varying physical
properties. The packages can be filled with numerous different
flowable compositions; for example, personal care compositions,
including, but not limited to shaving compositions, hair care
compositions, antiperspirant/deodorant compositions, skin care
formulations, and oral care compositions (including dentifrice and
denture adhesives (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,073,604 and
6,025,411). Other flowable products may also be dispensed from the
inventions herein. By way of example only, fabric/air care
compositions, pet care compositions, and food products may be
dispensed from the systems of the present invention.
[0075] Additional details regarding the device body will be
provided in the description of the figures.
2) Personal Care Composition
[0076] Personal care compositions for use herein are not
particularly limited and include, for example, skin care
compositions, antifungal compositions, and enzyme inhibiting
compositions. Suitable personal care compositions may be in the
form of, for example, lotions, creams, pastes, balms, ointments,
pomades, gels, liquids, combinations of these and the like, and may
also contain solids to further enhance the benefits for the
consumer. The personal care compositions disclosed herein include
at least one active ingredient. Examples of suitable active
ingredients include cosmetic actives.
[0077] Exemplary product forms for the personal care composition
include gels, post foaming gels, creams, foaming and non-foaming
liquids, mechanically pumpable liquids, non-aerosol gels, aerosol
gels, aerosol foams, pastes, serums, and sprays. Examples of
suitable products to be contained in device include body wash, body
lotion, facial cleanser, facial lotion, shampoo, conditioner,
deodorant, shave gel or cream, self tanner, nail polish, nail
polish remover, and other personal care products. In a preferred
embodiment, the liquid personal care product is a shave prep
composition, which can be an emulsions (creams/lotions) or gels,
which most commonly consist of polymer thickened surfactant
systems. Most non-aerosol shave aids fall within a pH range of 5-9,
which allows for the use of any number of thickeners and by
extension the development of clear, translucent or opaque products.
See e.g. U.S. Patent Publ. No. 2007/0207106; U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,902,574 and 5,262,154.
[0078] Amine-based soaps are combined with volatile hydrocarbons to
form a clear, stable emulsion when kept under pressure. Once
dispensed and mechanically agitated, these gels transform into
thick foams.
[0079] In another embodiment, the personal care composition is a
post-foaming shave gel. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,326,556 and
5,500,211. In one embodiment, the post-foaming shave gel includes
one or more polymers added to increase lubrication, such as a
glyceryl acryulate/acrylic acid copolymer. See e.g. U.S. Patent
Publ. No. 2007/0207106; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,902,574 and 5,262,154.
Further, in some cases a lubricious water soluble polymer such as
polyethylene oxide or polyvinylpyrrolidone has been added. See,
e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,560,859 and 5,858,343. In other cases, water
insoluble particles have been added, including water insoluble
polymer particles, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene,
or polyamide (nylon) particles, and water insoluble inorganic
particles such as titanium dioxide or glass beads. See, e.g., U.S.
Pat. Nos. 5,587,156 and 4,155,870. Various other shave gels have
been disclosed. See, e.g., U.S. Patent Publ. No. 2006/0257349,
2006/0257350 and 2005/0175575 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,500,211 and
6,352,689. These and other known shaving preparations can be used
with the device of the present invention.
Moving to the Figures,
[0080] FIG. 1A shows an exemplary embodiment of a container preform
10. The container preform 10 is shown as being inserted into a top
portion of a mold 30 such as, for example, the type of mold used in
a blow molding or injection molding process. The container preform
10 may include a polymeric preform 12 and an elastically deformable
band 14, which at least partially surrounds a portion or even all
of the polymeric preform 12. The elastic band 14 may be joined to
the polymeric preform 12 by any means commonly known in the art, as
long as it does not undesirably interfere with the ability of the
polymeric preform and/or the elastic band 14 to expand and/or
collapse. The polymeric preform 12 may be elastically or
plastically extensible and is configured to receive a flowable
composition such as, for example, one or more of the personal care
compositions disclosed herein. In certain embodiments, the
polymeric preform 12 may be expanded to form a collapsible bag
(e.g., by filling or partially filling the polymeric preform 12
with a gas and/or a personal care composition). The polymeric
preform 12 and/or the band 14 may be expanded such that sufficient
potential energy is stored in the stretched elastic band 14 and/or
collapsible bag to expel at least some or substantially all of the
skin composition stored in the collapsible bag in the manner
intended. For example, the potential energy stored in the elastic
band 14 may be sufficient to expel a liquid composition stored in
the expanded polymeric preform a distance of between 30 centimeters
("cm") and 125 cm, for example, between 40 and 100 cm, between 50
and 80 cm, or even between 60 and 70 cm, when the composition has a
viscosity of between 50 and 5000 cP when measured at 22 C with a
DV-III+ Rheometer (available from Brookfield Inc.) using a RV#3
spindle rotating at 30 RPM.
[0081] The polymeric preform 12 may be made of a flexible,
extensible, and, optionally, elastic material. Examples of
materials suitable for forming the polymeric preform 12 include,
without limitation, nylon; polypropylene; polyethylene; low density
polyethylene; polybutylene; polyester (e.g., polyethylene
terephthalate); high density polyethylene (HDPE); polyamide-based
materials; acrylonitrile materials; and combinations of these.
Particularly suitable examples are SARANEX brand plastic resin
available from DOW Chemical Company, Midland Mich. and BAREX 218
brand thermoplastic acrylic resin available from BP Chemicals
Corporation, Ohio. The polymeric preform 12 may be formed of two or
more materials, for example, during a co-extrusion blow molding
process. In certain embodiments, the material used to form the
polymeric preform 12 is relatively inert, such that there are
substantially no undesirable tastes or smells imparted to the
contents of the collapsible bag. Further, an inert polymeric
preform 12 may inhibit or even prevent certain ingredients from
undesirably migrating into the collapsible bag from the skin care
composition and vice versa. For example, certain skin care
compositions use preservatives to increase the effective life of
the skin composition. If these preservatives were to migrate out of
the skin care composition and into the material of the collapsible
bag, the skin care composition might be undesirably affected (e.g.,
become rancid), such that it does not deliver its expected benefit
to a user or exhibits undesirable characteristics (e.g., foul odor
or change in appearance). The polymeric preform 12 may be flexible
over substantially its entire surface in both the radial and axial
dimensions, except that it may be desirable to provide some amount
of stiffness in the neck region 13. In certain embodiments, it may
even be desirable to provide a polymeric preform 12 that is stiff
enough over its entire length to be self-supporting. The walls of
the polymeric preform 12 may be of any suitable thickness, as
desired. For example, the polymeric preform 12 may have an average
wall thickness of from 1.5 mm to 9.5 mm; or even 3.2 mm before it
is stretched and an average sidewall thickness of from 25.4
micrometers (".mu.m") to 50.8 .mu.m when fully expanded (e.g., 30.5
.mu.m to 46 .mu.m) over substantially its entire length except,
optionally, at the neck region 13. The portion of the polymeric
preform 12 that forms the neck region 13, which can be within 2.5
cm of the valve member 16 when the polymeric preform 12 is
expanded, may be thicker. It is to be appreciated that minor
variations in thickness at any given cross-section of the polymeric
preform are contemplated herein, and are within the scope and
spirit of the present disclosure.
[0082] When making the container preform 10, it may be desirable to
heat the polymeric preform 12 prior to stretching and/or receiving
the skin care composition. It is believed, without being limited by
theory, that heating the polymeric preform 12 and/or elastic band
14 softens and/or increase the pliability of the preform 12 and/or
band 14. In certain embodiments, all or at least a portion of the
polymeric preform 12 may be heated to a temperature ranging from
0.5 to 15.degree. C., or from 5 to 10.degree. C. above the glass
transition temperature ("T.sub.g") of the polymeric preform 12. In
another embodiment, the elastic band 14 may also be heated to the
same temperature. Heating may be done by transmitting IR or other
electromagnetic radiation through the elastic band 14 to the
polymeric preform 12. Pressure is applied to the interior of
polymeric preform 12 to plastically or elastically expand the
polymeric preform 12 into a collapsible bag and elastically expand
the elastic band 14. This pressure can be provided by a pressurized
gas (e.g., air or nitrogen), a driven rod or other physical member,
insertion of a skin care composition, or a combination of these. In
one embodiment, the applied pressure is from 150 kPa to 1000 kPa,
or even 584 kPa. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is
believed that an applied pressure of within .+-.200 kPa; .+-.180
kPa; or even .+-.160 kPa of 584 kPa may be particularly suitable
for expending the polymeric preform 12 quickly and uniformly,
without undesirably damaging the polymeric preform 12 or elastic
band 14. The volume of the polymeric preform 12, when expanded is
not particularly limited and may be, for example, between 100 ml
and 1 liter (e.g., 200 ml, 500 ml, 750 ml). The elastic band is
capable of stretching axially and/or radially at least 50% up to
more than 750% of its initial unstretched length and/or width.
FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate, by way of example, the difference in
size of the elastic band 614 and the polymeric preform
612/collapsible bag 610 in an unstrained state (i.e., FIG. 12) as
compared to a stretched state (i.e., FIG. 13). Similarly, during
use, the elastic band 614 may shrink or contract in an axial and/or
radial direction from 50 to 95% from an initial dispensing at first
use to a final, complete dispensing when the product is operatively
exhausted. Because of the potential for significant axial expansion
and contraction of the elastic band 614, the length of the
polymeric preform 612 can be significantly greater than the length
of the elastic band 614 in its unstrained/unstretched state. For
example, the polymeric preform 612 can be at least about 100%,
150%, 200%, or 300% of the length of the associated and unstrained
elastic band 614. Exemplary methods for providing suitable axial
expansion of the elastic band 614 are disclosed in co-pending U.S.
Patent Publ. No. 2010/0133295.
[0083] The potential energy created due to the expansion of the
elastic band 14 is generally sufficient to collapse the collapsible
bag 18 once the internal pressure of the blow molding process is
removed. After the polymeric preform 12 is expanded into a
collapsible bag 18 and subsequently collapsed, it may be charged
with a flowable personal care composition. During this filling
process, the collapsed bag expands both radially and axially, which
causes the elastic band 14 to expand, and potential energy is once
again created due to the expansion of the elastic band 14. A
normally-closed valve member 16 may be joined with the filled bag
to provide an openable/closable pathway for the skin care
composition to flow through, but to prevent the potential energy
stored in the elastic band 14 from undesirably acting on the filled
collapsible bag 18 and urging the skin care composition out of the
collapsible bag 18.
[0084] The elastically deformable band 14 may be formed from an
elastically extensible material (e.g., natural rubber, synthetic
rubber, and/or a thermoplastic elastomer). Suitable natural rubbers
include those which have a tensile strength of at least 24.1
megapascals ("MPa"). Additionally the natural rubber may have a
hardness (Shore A) of between 30 and 40, and a 100% Modulus of up
to 862 kilopascals ("kPa"). Suitable methods for determining the
properties of a rubber material such as those disclosed herein are
disclosed in ASTM No. D 412-06a.sup..epsilon.2, titled "Standard
Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers."
The elastically deformable band 14 may be formed, for example, from
a natural rubber made from a rubber plant (e.g., Guayule shrub or
Hevea tree) or a natural rubber modified with latex additives. The
elastic band 14 may be formed as a unitary sleeve (e.g., as shown
in FIGS. 1A-1C) or formed as one or more discrete bands of elastic
material joined to the polymeric preform 12. The elastic band 14
may be configured to provide a uniform or non-uniform pressure to
different portions of the collapsible bag 18. For example, several
discrete elastic bands of varying thickness may be positioned at
different locations on the collapsible bag 18. The thicker band(s)
may provide more pressure to the portion of the collapsible bag 18
to which (they) are joined relative to the thinner band(s). The
pressure generated by the elastic bands may depend upon, among
other things, their thickness, the modulus of the material from
which they are formed or a combination thereof.
[0085] The elastically deformable band 14 may be free or
substantially free of carbon black or any other ingredients which
would unduly obstruct or interfere with the transmittance of a
particular wavelength or wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation.
For example, it may be desirable to configure the elastic band 14
such that IR radiation is able to pass through all or at least a
portion of the elastic band 14. IR transparency provides the unique
benefit of allowing the simultaneous heating of the elastic member
14 and the polymeric preform 12, which may reduce manufacturing
complexity and/or cost relative to known containers and methods of
making such containers. In certain embodiments, the elastic band 14
may be configured to pass different wavelengths, intensities,
and/or combinations of electromagnetic radiation (e.g., UV, visible
light, microwave, radio frequency, and/or x-ray radiation).
[0086] FIG. 1B shows an exemplary embodiment of a partially
expanded container preform 10. The polymeric preform 12 and elastic
band 14 are shown expanding both axially and radially. In certain
embodiments, the polymeric preform 12 is expanded plastically and
the elastic band 14 is expanded or stretched elastically. The
potential energy generated as a result of stretching the elastic
band may be sufficient to generate 1000 kPa or less of hydrostatic
pressure, for example, less than 340 kPa; 310 kPa, or even less
than 240 kPa, but more than 100 kPa on the collapsible bag 18
and/or contents thereof. The pressure generated by the elastic band
may depend upon, among other things, the thickness of the elastic
band, the modulus of the material from which the elastic band is
formed, or a combination thereof. That is, the thicker the elastic
band, the more potential energy it is capable of generating when
stretched. A substantially uniform elastic band 14 suitable for use
herein, when relaxed, may have an average wall thickness of between
1 and 10 mm. The same elastic band 14, when stretched to
accommodate an expanded collapsible bag 18 as intended (e.g., as
shown in FIG. 1C), may have an average wall thickness of from 100
.mu.m to 400 .mu.m; or from 180 .mu.m to 240 .mu.m, or even from
200 .mu.m to 220 .mu.m.
[0087] FIG. 1C shows an example of a fully expanded polymeric
preform 12. The polymeric preform 12 and elastic band 14 extend all
the way to the walls of the mold 30 to define a collapsible bag 18
and/or a container. If the internal pressure is released from the
collapsible bag 18, the potential energy associated with the
elastic band 14 will act on the collapsible bag 18 to at least
partially collapse it in both the axial direction and radial
directions.
[0088] Prior art containers may utilize a variety of different
valve assemblies to provide an openable and/or closable flow path
to dispense flowable contents stored in the container. Some of
these valves utilize a complex arrangement of parts (e.g.,
ferrules, coil springs, valve seating members, snap rings) that can
add difficulty and expense to a manufacturing process. In contrast,
the container disclosed herein may include a relatively simple
valve member 16. FIG. 2 shows an exemplary valve member 16 suitable
for use herein. The valve member 16 may include an elastically
deformable body 40 in cooperation with a rigid insert 19. The
elastically deformable body 40 may be made from any suitable
elastomeric material commonly known in the art. In certain
embodiments, an inner wall of the polymeric preform 14 or the neck
region 13 may be used to functionally replace the insert 19. The
insert 19 (or alternatively a neck region 13 of the polymeric
preform 12) may be configured to function as a sleeve to seal the
valve 16 in its normally closed position. The valve body 40 may
include an open end 42, an opposing closed end 43, and a flange 44
disposed proximate to the open end 42. In certain embodiments, a
blind hole 45 (i.e., a hole that does not extend completely through
the valve member 16) extends from the open end 42 and terminates at
a blind hole bottom 46. As shown in FIG. 2, the blind hole 45
defines the inner surface of the valve body side wall 47. A
through-hole 48 may extend from the inner surface to the outer
surface of the side wall 47 (i.e., extends completely through the
side wall 47) and is positioned between the open end 42 and the
bottom 46 of the blind hole 45. In certain embodiments, the valve
16 may include no blind holes 45 and two or more through-holes 48
arranged to provide a flow path. The body 40 and/or through-hole(s)
48 may be arranged to form a seal with the wall of the insert 19.
The insert 19 may made from a rigid material such as, for example,
plastic, metal, hard elastomers, glass, and cardboard or other
cellulosic based materials to provide a desirable sealing surface.
The valve member 16 may be actuated by a user, for example, by
applying a sufficient amount of axial stress to elastically deform
the valve body 40 such that the valve body 40 becomes elongated and
its diameter is reduced. A fluid flow channel may then be formed
between the exterior surface of body 40 and the insert 19 as the
body 40 is elongated and reduced in diameter. The fluid flow
channel, once created, permits the passage of fluid from the
interior of the collapsible bag to the external environment by way
of through-hole 48, blind hole 45, and open end 42. Other examples
of suitable valve members for use herein are disclosed in
co-pending U.S. Patent Publ. No. 2010/0133301.
[0089] In one embodiment, the plug has one or more the radial
and/or diametric orifices as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 13,085,677
(Applicant Docket No. Z-8456), to Chan et al, filed Apr. 13, 2011.
In such an embodiment, the device comprises a valve system
comprising a plug selectively blocking and admitting fluid flow
from a high pressure side of said plug to a low pressure side of
said plug when inserted into a plug receiving member, said plug
comprising: a generally elongate elastically deformable plug body
having a longitudinal axis, a first end, a second end
longitudinally opposed thereto, and a peripheral outer sidewall,
said outer sidewall sealingly engaging an inner wall of a plug
receiving member when said plug is inserted therein; a blind hole
disposed in said first end and extending in the longitudinal
direction to a blind end, said hole defining an inner sidewall in
said elongate body; and a flange juxtaposed with said first end and
extending radially outboard of said outer wall, said flange having
an inner flange wall and an outer flange wall; wherein said plug
forms at least one orifice extending from at least a portion of
said inner sidewall to at least one of said outer sidewall, said
outer flange wall, or a combination thereof, preferably at least
partially formed in said plug body, whereby said plug is
longitudinally elastically elongatable in response to longitudinal
force applied to said blind end of said blind hole; said plug
radially contracting in response to said longitudinal elongation,
said radial contraction creating a fluid flowpath from said second
end to said first end. In one embodiment, said at least one orifice
is formed by said generally elongate elastically deformable plug
body such that said orifice extends between said inner sidewall and
said outer sidewall. In another embodiment, said at least one
orifice is at least one radial orifice. For purposes of
clarification, a radial orifice can be similar to the through hole
48, shown in FIG. 2. In another embodiment, said at least one
orifice comprises more than one orifice, which can be two
diametrically opposed radial orifices. In one embodiment, said two
diametrically opposed radial orifices are longitudinally coincident
forming a diametric orifice. In another embodiment, said plurality
of orifices are equally circumferentially spaced apart. In yet
another embodiment, said more than one orifice are not in the same
longitudinal position. These and other similar plugs are described
in U.S. Pat. No. 13,085,677 (Applicant Docket No. Z-8456), to Chan
et al, filed Apr. 13, 2011, as having radial or diametric
orifices.
[0090] In another embodiment, the plug forms one or more flange
orifices disclosed in U.S. Ser. Nos. 61/327,981 (Applicant docket
no. Z-8455P), to Chan et al, filed Apr. 26, 2010. In such an
embodiment, the device comprises a valve system comprising a plug
selectively blocking and admitting fluid flow from a high pressure
side of said plug to a low pressure side of said plug when inserted
into a plug receiving member, said plug comprising: a generally
elongate elastically deformable plug body having a longitudinal
axis, a first end, a second end longitudinally opposed thereto, and
a peripheral outer sidewall, said outer sidewall sealingly engaging
an inner wall of a plug receiving member when said plug is inserted
therein; a blind hole disposed in said first end and extending in
the longitudinal direction to a blind end, said hole defining an
inner sidewall in said elongate body; and a flange juxtaposed with
said first end and extending radially outboard of said outer wall,
said flange having an inner flange wall and an outer flange wall;
wherein said plug forms at least one orifice extending from at
least one of said outer sidewall, said inner flange wall, or a
combination thereof, to at least one of said inner sidewall, said
outer flange wall, or a combination thereof, preferably at least
partially formed in said flange, whereby said plug is
longitudinally elastically elongatable in response to longitudinal
force applied to said blind end of said blind hole; said plug
radially contracting in response to said longitudinal elongation,
said radial contraction creating a fluid flowpath from said second
end to said first end. For purposes of clarification the flange is
shown in FIG. 2 as element 44 and in FIG. 6 as element 224. From
FIG. 2, the outer side wall would be the portion of the sidewall 47
which is in contact with insert 19. The inner side wall would be
the portion of the plug forming the blind hole 45. The portion of
the flange 44 which is in contact with the insert 19 would be the
inner flange wall. The outer flange wall would be the portion of
the flange facing the open end, away from the body of the plug. In
one embodiment, said at least one orifice is a flange orifice
extending from said inner flange wall. In another embodiment, said
flange orifice extends to the outer flange wall. These and other
forms of flange orifices are described in greater detail in U.S.
Ser. No. 61/327,981 (Applicant docket no. Z-8455P) to Chan et al,
filed Apr. 26, 2010.
[0091] In yet another embodiment, the plug can include one or more
radial and/or diametric orifices AND one or more flange orifices.
In one preferred embodiment, the plug comprises at least one
diametric orifice.
[0092] FIG. 3 shows another exemplary embodiment of a container
preform 100. The container preform 100 includes a polymeric preform
112, an elastically deformable band 114, valve member 116, and an
optional adapter/insert 119 disposed between valve member 116 and a
neck region 113 of polymeric preform 112. FIG. 4 shows an axial
cross-section view of the container preform 10 of FIG. 3.
[0093] FIGS. 5 and 6 show an exemplary embodiment of a polymeric
preform 212. The polymeric preform 212 includes an open end 220
(although the actual opening is not shown) and an opposing closed
end 222. The polymeric preform 212 may include a flange 224
proximate to the open end 220 to help hold the polymeric preform
212 in a particular position in a blow mold. The flange 224 may
also be used for joining the expanded polymeric preform 212 to an
outer container and/or a portion of a valve or actuator assembly.
Additional flanges 225 and 226 and grooves 227 and 228 may be
included to help position and retain the elastic band 214 in a
variety of configurations, as desired. For example, the elastic
band 214 may be joined to the polymeric preform 212 at one or more
points proximate to the open end 220 and/or closed end 222. In
certain embodiments, an adhesive may be placed in the grooves 227
and/or 228 to affix the elastic band 214 to the polymeric preform
212. The grooves 227 and 228 may be configured for receiving
adhesive, but it should be appreciated that the adhesive could also
be deposited on the exterior of the polymeric preform 212 in the
absence of any specific receiving feature such as the optional
grooves 227 and 228. Nonlimiting examples of adhesives suitable for
use herein include epoxies, urethanes, acrylates, and/or other
adhesives capable of suitably bonding an elastically deformable
material with a plastic material. The adhesive may be air-cured,
light-cured, and/or cured via chemical cross-linking. Particularly
suitable examples of adhesives for use herein are LOCTITE 4306 and
4307 brand light-cured adhesives and LOCTITE 406, 4501, and 495
brand adhesives, all available from Henkel, located in Germany. In
certain embodiments, the elastic band 214 is not affixed to the
polymeric preform 212 at points which are positioned away from the
ends 220 and 222 of the polymeric preform 212 (i.e., points that
are spaced significantly from the open end 220 and the closed end
222) so that the polymeric preform 212 walls may expand to the blow
mold boundary as effectively and efficiently possible without being
constrained by the elastic band 214. Mechanical means may also be
employed to join the elastic band 214 to polymeric preform 212.
Alternatively or additionally, the elastic band 214 may be
configured such that it is unnecessary to affix the distal portion
of the band to the polymeric preform 212.
[0094] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment wherein the elastic
band 314 has a distal end 315 that is closed over the closed end
322 of the polymeric preform 312. When the polymeric preform 312
expands axially, for example, during blow molding, the elastic band
314 can correspondingly stretch in the axial direction. The closed
distal end 315 may be formed by adhesively adhering inner wall
portions of the elastic band 314 to one another. Alternatively or
additionally, a restraining member (e.g., a clamp) may be placed
around the exterior of the distal end 315 to hold it closed.
Although the distal end 315 is shown completely closed, it may also
be partially closed or be manufactured to have a smaller opening
than its opposing side so that the polymeric preform 312, and any
collapsible bag that may be blow molded from the polymeric preform
312, do not push through the distal end 315 of the elastic band
314.
[0095] An exemplary personal care product 400 comprising a brush
head 900 is shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 9 shows an axial cross-section
view of the personal care product 400 of FIG. 8. The personal care
product 400 includes a shaped container 412 and overcap 414. The
overcap 414 shown in FIG. 8 is transparent, but it is to be
appreciated that the overcap 414 may be translucent or even opaque.
A device 416 is disposed within container 412, which includes a
collapsible bag 418 formed from a polymeric preform such as one of
the polymeric preforms disclosed herein. The collapsible bag 418 is
filled with a flowable personal care composition 419. The actuator
422 in this example can be the brush head 900 that can be depressed
during application onto skin, or depressed prior to contact with
skin. In another embodiment, it may be desirable for the brush head
900 to be stationary (not be depressible). In such an embodiment, a
button can be used as the actuator so actuation can occur
separately from any movement of the brush head. In one embodiment,
the actuator can be the tube 426 and/or fluid dispensing conduit
926, wherein a downward pressure on the brush triggers the fluid
dispensing conduit to press into the valve. As shown here, the tube
426 and the fluid dispensing conduit 926 can be formed from the
same tube structure, where the tube resides below the brush head
and the fluid dispensing conduit extends into the brush head. Those
of skill in the art will understand that movement of the tube 426
would result in movement of the fluid dispensing conduit in such an
embodiment. In an embodiment where the brush is not depressible, a
button or other lever can be used to cause the tube 426 to be
depressed. FIG. 14 is an example of a personal care product which
can include the elastically extensible, tube in sleeve type of
dispenser described herein. As shown in FIG. 14, a button can be
placed on the dispenser head so the entire structure including the
brush head, fluid dispensing conduit, and tube can be depressed
during actuation.
[0096] The valve, being elastically deformable in the longitudinal
position would then stretch and contract radially. The tube can
form part of the fluid dispensing conduit, or the tube can be a
separate structure which is in fluid communication with the fluid
dispensing conduit. The tube 426 may be connected to an elastically
deformable valve member 428. Downward displacement of tube 426
positions valve member 428 such that a volume of the personal care
composition 419 is capable of passing into the through-hole 429,
which may be aligned with a second through-hole and/or an
open-ended slot (e.g., FIG. 10A shows a second through-hole 66 on
tube 426 and FIG. 10B shows an open-ended slot 466 on tube 426) on
tube 426, such that the personal care composition 419 is capable of
flowing through the length of the tube 426 and exiting the package
410. In certain embodiments, the tube 426 may rotatable within the
valve member 428 such that in one position a first through-hole 66
is aligned with a second through-hole 429 and in another position
it is not. This feature may provide a desirable locking aspect to
prevent or limit the discharge of composition 419 if the actuator
is inadvertently hit or pressed.
[0097] In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to dispense the
personal care composition in a particular pattern (e.g.,
cone-shaped, planar, single-stream, multi-stream, or amorphous);
droplet size; at a particular pressure; and/or range (i.e.,
effective distance that the dispensed composition can travel). For
example, the container may include a fluid dispensing conduit with
an opening configured to dispense a personal care composition in a
cone-shaped pattern that has an effective area of coverage of
between 2.54 cm.sup.2 and 15.24 cm.sup.2; between 5.08 cm.sup.2 and
10.16 cm.sup.2; or even between 7 cm.sup.2 and 9 cm.sup.2 when the
nozzle is held at a distance of between 15.24 cm and 30.48 cm away
from the skin. In certain embodiments, the person care composition
may be dispensed in a spray pattern that has an effective area of
coverage of between 1 cm.sup.2 and 225 cm.sup.2. Further, in
certain embodiments, it may be important to size the dispenser
opening such that the particles in certain particle containing
personal care compositions do not agglomerate at the opening and
clog the dispenser. The personal care product disclosed herein,
when used as intended, enables a user to apply a substantially
uniform film of personal care composition to the skin of a
recipient without the need for further manipulation of the
composition by the user or recipient (e.g., no need to further
spread or rub the composition). In addition to configuring the
personal care composition to have a suitable viscosity and surface
tension, it is important to provide a nozzle that has an opening(s)
that is/are configured to apply the composition to a surface in the
form of a suitable film. For example, the nozzle opening may be
configured to provide a particular pressure drop (i.e., the
difference between the pressure exerted on the composition in the
container and the pressure at which it is applied to a surface)
and/or shear rate. By selectively configuring the opening, the
shear rate, for example, can be controlled to minimize the
undesirable effect(s) of shear thickening or shear thinning on the
composition.
[0098] FIG. 11 shows an exemplary embodiment of an outer container
500 suitable for use herein. The outer container 500 may include an
opening 590 at the top of the container for inserting a polymeric
preform, collapsible bag, and/or valve member. The outer container
500 may be made of any suitable material known in the art. In
certain embodiments, the outer container 500 may be formed from the
same material as the polymeric preform. Examples of methods for
making personal care products are disclosed in the copending U.S.
application titled "METHOD FOR MAKING A PERSONAL CARE PRODUCT,"
identified as U.S. Ser. No. 12/767,283, (Applicant Docket No.
11694) and filed on Apr. 26, 2010 by Klofta, et al.
[0099] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be
understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values
recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension
is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally
equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension
disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."
[0100] All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the
Invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference;
the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission
that it is prior art with respect to the present invention. To the
extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document
conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a
document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition
assigned to that term in this document shall govern.
[0101] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
* * * * *