EP1165395A1 - Container for fluid product sample designed to be pressed - Google Patents

Container for fluid product sample designed to be pressed

Info

Publication number
EP1165395A1
EP1165395A1 EP00915251A EP00915251A EP1165395A1 EP 1165395 A1 EP1165395 A1 EP 1165395A1 EP 00915251 A EP00915251 A EP 00915251A EP 00915251 A EP00915251 A EP 00915251A EP 1165395 A1 EP1165395 A1 EP 1165395A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
reservoir
elastic
volume
dispensing orifice
fluid
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP00915251A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1165395B1 (en
Inventor
Firmin Garcia
Aline Abergel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Aptar France SAS
Original Assignee
Valois SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Valois SAS filed Critical Valois SAS
Publication of EP1165395A1 publication Critical patent/EP1165395A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1165395B1 publication Critical patent/EP1165395B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
    • B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
    • B05B11/04—Deformable containers producing the flow, e.g. squeeze bottles
    • B05B11/048—Deformable containers producing the flow, e.g. squeeze bottles characterised by the container, e.g. this latter being surrounded by an enclosure, or the means for deforming it
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D37/00—Sachet pads specially adapted for liquid toiletry or cosmetic substances
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
    • B65D75/5805—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture for tearing a side strip parallel and next to the edge, e.g. by means of a line of weakness
    • B65D75/5811—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture for tearing a side strip parallel and next to the edge, e.g. by means of a line of weakness and defining, after tearing, a small dispensing spout, a small orifice or the like
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
    • B65D75/5861—Spouts
    • B65D75/5872—Non-integral spouts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/0055—Containers or packages provided with a flexible bag or a deformable membrane or diaphragm for expelling the contents
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45D
    • A45D2200/05—Details of containers
    • A45D2200/054—Means for supplying liquid to the outlet of the container
    • A45D2200/057—Spray nozzles; Generating atomised liquid
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D40/00—Casings or accessories specially adapted for storing or handling solid or pasty toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. shaving soaps or lipsticks
    • A45D40/0087—Casings or accessories specially adapted for storing or handling solid or pasty toiletry or cosmetic substances, e.g. shaving soaps or lipsticks for samples
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2221/00—Small packaging specially adapted for product samples, single-use packages or échantillons

Definitions

  • Receptacle intended to be press for sample of fluid product
  • the present invention relates to a fluid dispenser, and more particularly to a fluid sample intended to be inserted in a magazine, magazine or other free, for promotional purposes.
  • the use of the dispenser of the invention is of course not limited to this sole use but constitutes a privileged application. Consequently, the sample of fluid product of the invention relates particularly to the fields of perfumery and cosmetics, the magazines of which constitute an important promotional vector.
  • An already known type of sample dispenser comprises a reservoir containing the fluid product and provided with at least one actuating wall on which pressure is exerted, for example using the thumb, to reduce the volume of the reservoir.
  • the sample comprises a dispensing orifice through which the fluid product is dispensed when the actuating wall is pressed.
  • it is known to carry out a two-phase spraying of air and product mixture. To do this, the tank must contain both fluid and gas in general air.
  • this type of sample dispenser is often provided with a removable sealing element, for example in the form of a tear-away or folding tab to close the dispensing orifice and thus isolate the reservoir from the outside. before use.
  • One of the problems of the present invention is therefore the resistance of the dispenser to pressure.
  • Another problem of the present invention is to provide a dispenser which has a very reduced thickness, in particular in its storage condition.
  • Another problem of the present invention is to provide a dispenser whose actuating wall has sufficient elasticity and restoring force to be actuated using a finger, for example the thumb.
  • the present invention provides a fluid dispenser comprising: - a reservoir containing said fluid and provided with at least one actuating wall on which pressure is exerted to decrease the volume of the reservoir, said reservoir being provided elastic means capable of increasing the volume of the reservoir.
  • a dispensing orifice through which the fluid product is dispensed in mixture with a gas to create a two-phase spray, a removable closure element for closing the dispensing orifice and thus isolating the reservoir from the outside, the elastic means being constrained so that the reservoir defines a minimum volume as long as the closure element closes the dispensing orifice.
  • the elastic means are therefore not at rest, but store potential energy because their stress, often exerted in the form of a deformation.
  • the dispenser before the closure element is removed, the dispenser is in a particularly flat configuration due to the atmospheric pressure which is exerted on the walls of the reservoir so as to crush it. And as soon as the closure element is removed, air can enter the reservoir, which then becomes at ambient pressure, which allows the elastic means to relax until they reach a rest position in which the reservoir sets a maximum volume.
  • the elastic means are defined by the actuating wall which has a shape memory enabling it to return to a rest state in which the tank defines a maximum volume.
  • the elastic properties of the actuating wall are used directly.
  • the actuation wall must have a certain instantaneous shape memory.
  • it must also have a long-term shape memory, since the sample distributors included in magazines can be stored for a long period. This is why the wall must have a lasting shape memory.
  • the thickness of the distributor is then directly determined by the thickness of the actuation wall in the fully depressed or crushed state. And as soon as the closure element is removed, the actuating wall returns to its natural state, in which it is possible to actuate it by pressing.
  • the elastic means comprise an elastic element disposed in the tank.
  • the elastic element acts on the actuating wall.
  • the actuating wall does not need to have particular qualities of shape memory.
  • the elastic element since the elastic element is constrained in its minimum volume, it is he who determines the thickness of the dispenser by its own thickness in the fully compressed state. Thus, the pressure exerted for example by a stack of magazines on the walls of the tank no longer exerts on the fluid inside the tank but on the elastic element in its maximum compressed state. This eliminates any risk of the tank bursting due to the pressure since the liquid itself undergoes practically no pressure.
  • the elastic element then plays in its fully compressed configuration a role of spacer between the walls of the tank so as to define a volume in which the fluid product is practically under no pressure.
  • the elastic element is the thickest part in the relaxed state, and if it were so put in a magazine, the sample would either be too thick or would burst. By crushing it, it is quite fine.
  • the reservoir contains substantially only fluid as long as the closure element closes the dispensing orifice. And by filling the dispenser under vacuum or in an inert atmosphere, we guarantee that the fluid stored in the tank has never been in contact with air, which protects it against any possible degradation, for example by oxidation.
  • the distributor does not become a two-phase sprayer until the closure element has been removed, allowing air to enter the tank.
  • the dispenser can then be used to release a jet of finely sprayed product.
  • the elastic element gives the actuating wall a certain resilient elasticity that the wall could not provide by itself.
  • the spring then fulfills a function of resistance to finger pressure and at the same time of return spring to return the distributor to its extended initial position.
  • the elastic element is in the form of a conical spiral spring capable of being crushed to the thickness of a turn. With a conical spiral spring, it is possible to bring all the turns in the same plane so that the spring, in the compressed state, has a thickness corresponding to that of a single turn. In the reservoir of the distributor, the spring then makes it possible to define a volume in which the fluid product is not subjected to pressure.
  • the elastic element is in the form of a molded plastic part comprising elastic legs between which extends an articulated assembly capable of being constrained in the same plane as the legs.
  • the assembly comprises two arms connected in an articulated manner respectively to the elastic legs with one of their ends and to a shelf with their other ends, so that the shelf can be brought back in the plane of the legs with the arms.
  • FIG. 1 is a view in vertical cross-section through a dispenser according to the invention in the storage state which is not yet used
  • FIG. 2 is a view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 in the state of 'use
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view of an elastic element usable in a dispenser according to the invention
  • Figures 4a and 4b are views respectively in section and from above of the elastic element of Figure 3 to l fully compressed state
  • Figures 5a and 5b are views similar to those of Figures 4a and 4b in the fully relaxed state
  • Figures 6a and 6b are views similar to those of Figures 1 and 2 for a second embodiment
  • the dispenser can be reahsed from two sheets of flexible complex film 1 and 2 which are welded together on their periphery 11, 12 so as to define between them a volume which corresponds substantially to that of a fluid reservoir 3.
  • a msert 5 can also be disposed between the two sheets 1 and 2: this insert 5 defines a distribution orifice 50 and a housing in which a porous fiber 6 can be housed so as to extend to the content of the reservoir 3 This fiber 6 is intended to impregnate the fluid product contained in the content of the reservoir 3.
  • the reservoir 3 contains an elastic element 4 which is arranged between the two sheets 1 and 2.
  • This elastic element 4 acts at least on one wall 1 of the dispenser, which may be the actuating wall, so as to increase the internal volume of the reservoir 3
  • the elastic element 4 is constrained in its fully compressed state as long as the closure element 12 closes the dispensing orifice 50 and thus isolates the reservoir 3 from the extender.
  • the reservoir 3 was sealed during its manufacture with the elastic element constrained in its maximum compressed state so that the reservoir is then at its minimum volume. In this state shown in FIG. 1, the reservoir 1 contains practically only fluid and practically no or no gas at all.
  • the elastic element 4 cannot relax to the content of the tank 3 due to the atmospheric pressure which is exerted on the walls 1 and 2 of the tank.
  • the dispenser can then be stored before use in this state, it has a particularly reduced thickness which is defined substantially by the thickness of the elastic element 4 in its fully compressed state added to the cumulative thickness of the two sheets of film 1 and 2.
  • the elastic element 4 determines a minimum volume of the reservoir in which the fluid is stored without undergoing practically any pressure. Thus, there is no risk of leakage by crushing the reservoir 3.
  • Such a dispenser can for example be inserted in a magazine since it is particularly flat and particularly resistant to pressure.
  • the elastic element 4 plays a role of spacer in the storage state (FIG. 1) by determining a minimum volume for the reservoir 3, a role of initiator during the lifting of the shutter element 12 by increasing the volume of the reservoir 3, and a role of return spring during actuation by pressure on the actuation wall 1.
  • the elastic element 4 can for example be in the form of a conical spiral spring as can be seen in Figures 1 and 2.
  • the conical spiral spring has the advantage of being able to be compressed so as to bring all of its turns in the same plane as can be seen in Figure 1.
  • the spring then has a thickness co ⁇ espondant to that of a single turn.
  • the spring 4 defines a volume inside which the fluid product can be stored without being subjected to any pressure from the outside.
  • One can for example arrange the base of the conical spiral spring 4 in contact with the wall 2 so that the turn of smaller diameter comes into contact with the actuating wall 1 which promotes the bending of the wall 1. This is there a particularly simple design for an elastic element 4 to provide the advantages of the present invention.
  • FIGs 3 to 5b show another embodiment for the elastic element 4.
  • This is an entirely plastic part produced for example by molding.
  • this plastic spring has the ability to be compressed so as to bring all its constituent elements in the same plane as we can see in Figure 4a.
  • This elastic element 4 comprises two elastic tabs 41 fixed at their ends to two bars 42 intended to come to rest against the sheet 1 of the dispenser.
  • the elastic tabs 41 are capable of deforming elastically towards the outside as can be seen in FIG. 4b.
  • An articulated arm 4 connects each leg 41 substantially at the level of its middle.
  • the two articulated arms 43 are connected at their opposite end to a shelf 44.
  • the two arms 43 are both articulated with respect to the respective lugs 41 and to the shelf 44, so that the shelf 44 can be brought back into the defined plane by the legs 41 and the bars 42 by deformation of the legs 41 towards the outside as seen in FIGS. 4a and 4b.
  • the upper surface of the shelf 44 is intended to come into contact with the actuating wall 1 of the dispenser.
  • FIGS. 3, 5 a and 5 b The unstressed rest state of this elastic element 4 is that of FIGS. 3, 5 a and 5 b which also corresponds to that of the molding.
  • the elastic element 4 is in the form shown in Figures 4a and 4b, that is to say completely flat.
  • the closure element 12 is removed, the elastic element returns to its initial form of rest in FIGS. 5a and 5b.
  • FIGS. 6a and 6b there is no elastic element, and it is the actuating wall itself which fulfills this characteristic of elasticity or shape memory.
  • the actuating wall When sealing the tank, the actuating wall is pushed in as far as possible so that there is almost only fluid in the tank (fig. 6a). At its opening, air enters, and the actuating wall resumes its rest form shown in Figure 6b.
  • the spirit of the present invention resides in the fact of using elastic means which are forced into a compressed state during the sealing of the dispenser so as to give it a particularly flat configuration and which can relax so as to increase the internal volume of the tank by gas entry through the dispensing orifice once opened.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a fluid product dispenser comprising: a reservoir (3) containing said fluid product and provided with at least an actuating wall (10) whereon pressure is exerted to reduce the volume of the reservoir, said reservoir being provided with elastic means (4) capable of increasing the volume of the reservoir, a dispensing orifice (50) through which the fluid product is dispensed mixed with a gas to produce a two-phase spray, a removable closure (12) to close the dispensing orifice (50) thus insulating the reservoir from outside. The invention is characterised in that the elastic means are stressed such that the reservoir defines a minimum volume so long as the closure element (12) closes the dispensing orifice.

Description

Récipi ent destine a être presse pour échanti l l on de produit fl uideReceptacle intended to be press for sample of fluid product
La présente invention concerne un distributeur de produit fluide, et plus particulièrement un échantillon de produit fluide destiné à être inséré dans un magazine, revue ou autre libre, dans un but promotionnel. L'utilisation du distributeur de l'invention ne se limite bien sûr pas à cette seule utilisation mais en constitue une application privilégiée. Par conséquent, l'échantillon de produit fluide de l'invention concerne particulièrement les domaines de la parfumerie et de la cosmétique dont les magazines constituent un important vecteur promotionnel.The present invention relates to a fluid dispenser, and more particularly to a fluid sample intended to be inserted in a magazine, magazine or other free, for promotional purposes. The use of the dispenser of the invention is of course not limited to this sole use but constitutes a privileged application. Consequently, the sample of fluid product of the invention relates particularly to the fields of perfumery and cosmetics, the magazines of which constitute an important promotional vector.
Etant donné que ce type de distributeur est mis dans le commerce gratuitement, son coût doit être particulièrement bas. Les éléments constitutifs ainsi que le montage du distributeur doivent donc être bon marché. Un type déjà connu de distributeur échantillon comprend un réservoir contenant le produit fluide et pourvu d'au moins une paroi d'actionnement sur laquelle on exerce une pression, par exemple à l'aide du pouce, pour diminuer le volume du réservoir. D'autre part, l'échantillon comprend un orifice de distribution par lequel le produit fluide est distribué lorsque l'on appuie sur la paroi d'actionnement. Et pour améliorer la qualité du jet de produit distribué, il est connu de réaliser une pulvérisation biphasique de mélange d'air et de produit. Pour ce faire, le réservoir doit contenir à la fois du produit fluide et du gaz en général de l'air. Ainsi lorsqu'on appuie sur la paroi d'actionnement, le produit fluide est distribué avec de l'air ce qui crée une pulvérisation dite biphasique. D'autre part, ce type de distributeur échantillon est souvent pourvu d'un élément d'obturation amovible, par exemple sous la forme d'une languette arrachable ou rabattable pour obturer l'orifice de distribution et ainsi isoler le réservoir de l'extérieur avant son utilisation.Since this type of distributor is sold free of charge, its cost must be particularly low. The components and the mounting of the distributor must therefore be inexpensive. An already known type of sample dispenser comprises a reservoir containing the fluid product and provided with at least one actuating wall on which pressure is exerted, for example using the thumb, to reduce the volume of the reservoir. On the other hand, the sample comprises a dispensing orifice through which the fluid product is dispensed when the actuating wall is pressed. And to improve the quality of the jet of product dispensed, it is known to carry out a two-phase spraying of air and product mixture. To do this, the tank must contain both fluid and gas in general air. Thus when the actuating wall is pressed, the fluid product is distributed with air, which creates a so-called biphasic spray. On the other hand, this type of sample dispenser is often provided with a removable sealing element, for example in the form of a tear-away or folding tab to close the dispensing orifice and thus isolate the reservoir from the outside. before use.
De l'art antérieur, on peut par exemple citer le document US-3 897 005 qui décrit un conditionnement constitué de deux coques soudées ensemble de manière à définir un volume interne qui sert de réservoir. Ce réservoir est rempli d'un produit fluide et d'air. Dans la partie du réservoir où est stocké le produit fluide, il y a un élément élastique, une sorte de mousse, qui a pour effet d'écarter localement les deux coques, même à l'état encore non utilisé. Pour l'actionnement de ce conditionnement, on en arrache un coin et on appuie sur les coques au niveau de l'élément élastique. Lorsqu'un tel distributeur échantillon est destiné à la presse en étant inséré à l'intérieur de magazines par exemple, il est soumis à une pression importante due au poids des magazines puisque leur stockage est en général réalisé par empilage. Ainsi, les échantillons situés le plus bas sont soumis à une pression correspondant au poids total de la pile de magazine. Etant donné que le réservoir est rempli d'air et de produit fluide, et que l'élément élastique est écrasable, il y a un risque évident d'éclatement du réservoir.From the prior art, mention may for example be made of document US Pat. No. 3,897,005 which describes a package consisting of two shells welded together so as to define an internal volume which serves as a reservoir. This tank is filled with a fluid product and air. In the part of the tank where the fluid is stored, there is an elastic element, a kind of foam, which has the effect of locally spreading the two shells, even in the still unused state. To activate this packaging, a corner is torn off and the shells are pressed at the level of the elastic element. When such a sample dispenser is intended for the press by being inserted inside magazines for example, it is subjected to significant pressure due to the weight of magazines since their storage is generally carried out by stacking. Thus, the lowest samples are subjected to a pressure corresponding to the total weight of the magazine stack. Since the tank is filled with air and fluid, and the elastic member is collapsible, there is an obvious risk of the tank bursting.
Un des problèmes de la présente invention est donc la résistance du distributeur à la pression.One of the problems of the present invention is therefore the resistance of the dispenser to pressure.
Un autre problème de la présente invention est de fournir un distributeur qui présente une épaisseur très réduite, notamment dans sa condition de stockage. Un autre problème de la présente invention est de fournir un distributeur dont la paroi d'actionnement présente une élasticité et une force de rappel suffisante pour être actionnée à l'aide d'un doigt, par exemple le pouce.Another problem of the present invention is to provide a dispenser which has a very reduced thickness, in particular in its storage condition. Another problem of the present invention is to provide a dispenser whose actuating wall has sufficient elasticity and restoring force to be actuated using a finger, for example the thumb.
Pour ce faire, la présente invention propose un distributeur de produit fluide comprenant : - un réservoir contenant ledit produit fluide et pourvu d'au moins une paroi d'actionnement sur laquelle on exerce une pression pour diminuer le volume du réservoir, ledit réservoir étant pourvu de moyens élastiques aptes à augmenter le volume du réservoir. un orifice de distribution par lequel le produit fluide est distribué en mélange avec un gaz pour créer une pulvérisation biphasique, un élément d'obturation amovible pour obturer l'orifice de distribution et ainsi isoler le réservoir de l'extérieur, les moyens élastiques étant contraints de manière à ce que le réservoir définisse un volume minimum tant que l'élément d'obturation obture l'orifice de distribution. Les moyens élastiques ne sont donc pas au repos, mais stockent de l'énergie potentielle du fait que leur sollicitation, exercée souvent sous la forme d'une déformation.To do this, the present invention provides a fluid dispenser comprising: - a reservoir containing said fluid and provided with at least one actuating wall on which pressure is exerted to decrease the volume of the reservoir, said reservoir being provided elastic means capable of increasing the volume of the reservoir. a dispensing orifice through which the fluid product is dispensed in mixture with a gas to create a two-phase spray, a removable closure element for closing the dispensing orifice and thus isolating the reservoir from the outside, the elastic means being constrained so that the reservoir defines a minimum volume as long as the closure element closes the dispensing orifice. The elastic means are therefore not at rest, but store potential energy because their stress, often exerted in the form of a deformation.
Ainsi, avant l'enlèvement de l'élément d'obturation, le distributeur se présente dans une configuration particulièrement plate en raison de la pression atmosphérique qui s'exerce sur les parois du réservoir de manière à l'écraser. Et dès l'enlèvement de l'élément d'obturation, de l'air peut pénétrer dans le réservoir qui se met alors à la pression ambiante, ce qui permet aux moyens élastiques de se détendre jusque dans une position de repos dans laquelle le réservoir définit un volume maximal.Thus, before the closure element is removed, the dispenser is in a particularly flat configuration due to the atmospheric pressure which is exerted on the walls of the reservoir so as to crush it. And as soon as the closure element is removed, air can enter the reservoir, which then becomes at ambient pressure, which allows the elastic means to relax until they reach a rest position in which the reservoir sets a maximum volume.
Selon un premier mode de réalisation, les moyens élastiques sont définis par la paroi d'actionnement qui présente une mémoire de forme lui permettant de revenir à un état de repos dans lequel le réservoir définit un volume maximum. Dans ce cas, on se sert directement des propriétés élastiques de la paroi d'actionnement. Pour permettre un actionnement répété, la paroi d'actionnement doit avoir une certaine mémoire de forme instantanée. Pour lui permettre de remplir la fonction de moyens élastiques selon l'invention, il lui faut en outre avoir une mémoire de forme à long terme, étant donné que les distributeurs-échantillons inclus dans des magazines peuvent être stockés pendant une longue période. C'est pourquoi la paroi doit présenter une mémoire de forme durable. L'épaisseur du distributeur est alors directement déterminée par l'épaisseur de la paroi d'actionnement à l'état complètement enfoncé ou écrasé. Et dès que l'on enlève l'élément d'obturation, la paroi d'actionnement revient à son état naturel, dans lequel il est possible de l' actionner par enfoncement.According to a first embodiment, the elastic means are defined by the actuating wall which has a shape memory enabling it to return to a rest state in which the tank defines a maximum volume. In this case, the elastic properties of the actuating wall are used directly. To allow repeated actuation, the actuation wall must have a certain instantaneous shape memory. To enable it to fulfill the function of elastic means according to the invention, it must also have a long-term shape memory, since the sample distributors included in magazines can be stored for a long period. This is why the wall must have a lasting shape memory. The thickness of the distributor is then directly determined by the thickness of the actuation wall in the fully depressed or crushed state. And as soon as the closure element is removed, the actuating wall returns to its natural state, in which it is possible to actuate it by pressing.
Selon un second mode de réalisation, les moyens élastiques comprennent un élément élastique disposé dans le réservoir. Avantageusement, dans lequel l'élément élastique agit sur la paroi d'actionnement. Dans ce cas, il s'agit d'une pièce supplémentaire, de sorte que la paroi d'actionnement n'a pas besoin d'avoir des qualités particulières de mémoire de forme.According to a second embodiment, the elastic means comprise an elastic element disposed in the tank. Advantageously, in which the elastic element acts on the actuating wall. In this case, it is an additional part, so that the actuating wall does not need to have particular qualities of shape memory.
En outre, étant donné que l'élément élastique est contraint dans son volume minimum, c'est lui qui détermine l'épaisseur du distributeur par son épaisseur propre à l'état complètement comprimé. Ainsi, la pression exercée par exemple par une pile de magazines sur les parois du réservoir ne s'exerce plus sur le produit fluide à l'intérieur du réservoir mais sur l'élément élastique dans son état comprimé maximum. On élimine ainsi tout risque d'éclatement du réservoir du fait de la pression puisque le liquide en lui- même ne subit pratiquement aucune pression. L'élément élastique joue alors dans sa configuration complètement comprimée un rôle d' entretoise entre les parois du réservoir de manière à définir un volume dans lequel le produit fluide ne subit pratiquement pas de pression. L'élément élastique est la pièce qui a le plus d'épaisseur à l'état détendu, et s'il était ainsi mis dans un magazine, l'échantillon serait soit trop épais, soit éclaterait. En l'écrasant, il est assez fin. En revanche, dès que l'on retire l'élément d'obturation, de l'air, ou en général du gaz, peut pénétrer à l'intérieur du réservoir à travers l'orifice de distribution, de sorte que l'élément élastique peut se détendre de manière à augmenter le volume interne du réservoir. On peut dire que le réservoir ne contient sensiblement que du produit fluide tant que l'élément d'obturation obture l'orifice de distribution. Et en remplissant le distributeur sous vide ou dans une atmosphère inerte, on garantit que le produit fluide stocké dans le réservoir n'a jamais été en contact de l'air, ce qui le protège contre toute dégradation éventuelle, par exemple par oxydation.In addition, since the elastic element is constrained in its minimum volume, it is he who determines the thickness of the dispenser by its own thickness in the fully compressed state. Thus, the pressure exerted for example by a stack of magazines on the walls of the tank no longer exerts on the fluid inside the tank but on the elastic element in its maximum compressed state. This eliminates any risk of the tank bursting due to the pressure since the liquid itself undergoes practically no pressure. The elastic element then plays in its fully compressed configuration a role of spacer between the walls of the tank so as to define a volume in which the fluid product is practically under no pressure. The elastic element is the thickest part in the relaxed state, and if it were so put in a magazine, the sample would either be too thick or would burst. By crushing it, it is quite fine. On the other hand, as soon as the closure element is removed, air, or in general gas, can penetrate inside the reservoir through the dispensing orifice, so that the elastic element can relax so as to increase the internal volume of the tank. It can be said that the reservoir contains substantially only fluid as long as the closure element closes the dispensing orifice. And by filling the dispenser under vacuum or in an inert atmosphere, we guarantee that the fluid stored in the tank has never been in contact with air, which protects it against any possible degradation, for example by oxidation.
Le distributeur ne devient pulvérisateur biphasique qu'après enlèvement de l'élément d'obturation permettant l'entrée d'air à l'intérieur du réservoir. Le distributeur peur alors être utilisé pour libérer un jet de produit finement pulvérisé. En outre, l'élément élastique procure à la paroi d'actionnement une certaine élasticité résiliente que la paroi ne pourrait pas procurer d'elle-même. Le ressort remplit alors une fonction de résistance à la pression du doigt et en même temps de ressort de rappel pour ramener le distributeur dans sa position initiale étendue. Selon une première forme de réalisation, l'élément élastique se présente sous la forme d'un ressort spirale conique apte à être écrasé à l'épaisseur d'une spire. Avec un ressort spiral conique, il est possible de ramener la totalité de spires dans un même plan de sorte que le ressort, à l'état comprimé, présente une épaisseur correspondant à celle d'une seule spire. Dans le réservoir du distributeur, le ressort permet alors de définir un volume dans lequel le produit fluide ne subit pas de pression.The distributor does not become a two-phase sprayer until the closure element has been removed, allowing air to enter the tank. The dispenser can then be used to release a jet of finely sprayed product. In addition, the elastic element gives the actuating wall a certain resilient elasticity that the wall could not provide by itself. The spring then fulfills a function of resistance to finger pressure and at the same time of return spring to return the distributor to its extended initial position. According to a first embodiment, the elastic element is in the form of a conical spiral spring capable of being crushed to the thickness of a turn. With a conical spiral spring, it is possible to bring all the turns in the same plane so that the spring, in the compressed state, has a thickness corresponding to that of a single turn. In the reservoir of the distributor, the spring then makes it possible to define a volume in which the fluid product is not subjected to pressure.
Dans un deuxième mode de réalisation, l'élément élastique se présente sous la forme d'une pièce plastique moulée comprenant des pattes élastiques entre lesquelles s'étend un ensemble articulé apte à être contraint dans le même plan que les pattes. De préférence, l'ensemble comprend deux bras reliés de manière articulée respectivement aux pattes élastiques avec une de leurs extrémités et à une tablette avec leurs autres extrémités, de sorte que la tablette peut être ramenée dans le plan des pattes avec les bras. Il s'agit là d'une seconde version entièrement plastique ce qui présente des avantages du point de vue de sa capacité de recyclage.In a second embodiment, the elastic element is in the form of a molded plastic part comprising elastic legs between which extends an articulated assembly capable of being constrained in the same plane as the legs. Preferably, the assembly comprises two arms connected in an articulated manner respectively to the elastic legs with one of their ends and to a shelf with their other ends, so that the shelf can be brought back in the plane of the legs with the arms. This is a second fully plastic version which has advantages from the point of view of its recycling capacity.
La présente invention sera maintenant plus amplement décrite en référence aux dessins joints donnant à titre d'exemple non limitatif un mode de réalisation de la présente invention. Sur les dessins : la figure 1 est une vue en coupe transversale verticale à travers un distributeur selon l'invention à l'état de stockage encore non utilisé, - la figure 2 est une vue du distributeur de la figure 1 à l'état d'utilisation, la figure 3 est une vue en perspective d'un élément élastique utilisable dans un distributeur selon l'invention, les figures 4a et 4b sont des vues respectivement en coupe et de dessus de l'élément élastique de la figure 3 à l'état complètement comprimé, les figures 5a et 5b sont des vues similaires a celles des figures 4a et 4b à l'état complètement détendu, et les figures 6a et 6b sont des vues similaires a celles des figures 1 et 2 pour un second mode de réalisationThe present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings which give by way of nonlimiting example an embodiment of the present invention. In the drawings: FIG. 1 is a view in vertical cross-section through a dispenser according to the invention in the storage state which is not yet used, - FIG. 2 is a view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 in the state of 'use, Figure 3 is a perspective view of an elastic element usable in a dispenser according to the invention, Figures 4a and 4b are views respectively in section and from above of the elastic element of Figure 3 to l fully compressed state, Figures 5a and 5b are views similar to those of Figures 4a and 4b in the fully relaxed state, and Figures 6a and 6b are views similar to those of Figures 1 and 2 for a second embodiment
Dans les exemples de réalisation non limitatifs utilisés pour illustrer la présente mvention, le distributeur peut être reahsé à partir de deux feuilles de film complexe souple 1 et 2 qui sont soudées ensemble sur leur périphérie 11, 12 de manière à définir entre elles un volume qui correspond sensiblement à celui d'un réservoir de produit fluide 3. Un msert 5 peut également être disposé entre les deux feuilles 1 et 2 : cet insert 5 définit un orifice de distπbution 50 et un logement dans lequel une fibre poreuse 6 peut être logée de manière à s'étendre à l'mténeur du réservoir 3 Cette fibre 6 est destinée à s'imprégner de produit fluide contenu à l'mténeur du réservoir 3. Une fois cette fibre imbibée de produit, il suffit de faire passer un flux d'air à travers la fibre ce qui crée une distribution biphasique au mveau de l'orifice de distπbution 50 de l'msert 5. En avant de l'orifice de distribution 50, les deux feuilles 1 et 2 soudées ensemble définissent une languette arrachable ou rabattable 12 qui obture l'orifice de distribution 50 de mamère à isoler le réservoir 3 de l'extéπeurIn the nonlimiting exemplary embodiments used to illustrate the present invention, the dispenser can be reahsed from two sheets of flexible complex film 1 and 2 which are welded together on their periphery 11, 12 so as to define between them a volume which corresponds substantially to that of a fluid reservoir 3. A msert 5 can also be disposed between the two sheets 1 and 2: this insert 5 defines a distribution orifice 50 and a housing in which a porous fiber 6 can be housed so as to extend to the content of the reservoir 3 This fiber 6 is intended to impregnate the fluid product contained in the content of the reservoir 3. Once this fiber is soaked with product, it suffices to pass a flow of air through the fiber which creates a two-phase distribution at the level of the distribution orifice 50 of the msert 5. In front of the distribution orifice 50, the two sheets 1 and 2 welded together end a tear-off or folding flap 12 which closes the orifice 50 of Mamère distribution to isolate reservoir 3 from extéπeur
Dans le mode de réalisation des figures 1 et 2, le réservoir 3 contient un élément élastique 4 qui est disposé entre les deux feuilles 1 et 2. Cet élément élastique 4, comme on peut le voir sur la figure 2, agit au moins sur une paroi 1 du distributeur, qui peut être la paroi d'actionnement, de manière a augmenter le volume interne du réservoir 3 Selon une caractéπstique particulièrement mtéressante de l'invention, l'élément élastique 4 est contraint dans son état complètement comprimé tant que l'élément d'obturation 12 obture l'orifice de distribution 50 et isole ainsi le réservoir 3 de l' exteneur. En d'autres termes, le réservoir 3 a été scellé lors de sa fabncation avec l'élément élastique contraint dans son état comprime maximum de sorte que le réservoir est alors à son volume minimum. Dans cet état représenté sur la figure 1, le réservoir 1 ne contient pratiquement que du produit fluide et pratiquement pas ou pas du tout de gaz Etant donné que le réservoir 3 est parfaitement isolé de l'exténeur par l'élément d'obturation 12, l'élément élastique 4 ne peut pas se détendre à l'mténeur du réservoir 3 en raison de la pression atmosphérique qui s'exerce sur les parois 1 et 2 du réservoir. Le distributeur peut alors être stocké avant utilisation dans cet état, il présente une épaisseur particulièrement réduite qui est définie sensiblement par l'épaisseur de l'élément élastique 4 à son état complètement comprimé ajouté à l'épaisseur cumulée des deux feuilles de film 1 et 2. L'élément élastique 4 détermine alors un volume minimum du réservoir dans lequel le produit fluide est stocké sans subir pratiquement aucune pression. Ainsi, il n'y a aucun risque de fuite par écrasement du réservoir 3. Un tel distributeur peut par exemple être inséré dans un magazine puisqu'il est particulièrement plat et particulièrement résistant à la pression.In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the reservoir 3 contains an elastic element 4 which is arranged between the two sheets 1 and 2. This elastic element 4, as can be seen in FIG. 2, acts at least on one wall 1 of the dispenser, which may be the actuating wall, so as to increase the internal volume of the reservoir 3 According to a particularly advantageous characteristic of the invention, the elastic element 4 is constrained in its fully compressed state as long as the closure element 12 closes the dispensing orifice 50 and thus isolates the reservoir 3 from the extender. In other words, the reservoir 3 was sealed during its manufacture with the elastic element constrained in its maximum compressed state so that the reservoir is then at its minimum volume. In this state shown in FIG. 1, the reservoir 1 contains practically only fluid and practically no or no gas at all. Given that the reservoir 3 is perfectly isolated from the extinguisher by the closure element 12, the elastic element 4 cannot relax to the content of the tank 3 due to the atmospheric pressure which is exerted on the walls 1 and 2 of the tank. The dispenser can then be stored before use in this state, it has a particularly reduced thickness which is defined substantially by the thickness of the elastic element 4 in its fully compressed state added to the cumulative thickness of the two sheets of film 1 and 2. The elastic element 4 then determines a minimum volume of the reservoir in which the fluid is stored without undergoing practically any pressure. Thus, there is no risk of leakage by crushing the reservoir 3. Such a dispenser can for example be inserted in a magazine since it is particularly flat and particularly resistant to pressure.
Dès lors que l'on retire l'élément d'obturation 12 de l'air peut pénétrer à l'intérieur du réservoir 3 par l'orifice de distribution 50 de sorte que l'élément élastique 4 peut se détendre à l'intérieur du réservoir de manière à en augmenter son volume interne. Le réservoir 3 est alors rempli avec du produit fluide et du gaz, en général de l'air. Pour obtenir une distribution de produit pulvérisé, il suffit alors d'agir sur la paroi 1 à l'aide du pouce par exemple contre l'action de l'élément élastique 4 de manière à refouler de l'air à travers la fibre 6 imbibée de produit fluide. L'air en passant à travers la fibre imbibée 6 crée une pulvérisation biphasique au niveau de l'orifice de distribution 50. Dès que l'on relâche la pression sur la paroi d'actionnement 1, celle-ci reprend sa forme représentée sur la figure 2 en raison de l'action élastique de l'élément 4.As soon as the shutter element 12 is removed, air can penetrate inside the tank 3 through the dispensing orifice 50 so that the elastic element 4 can relax inside the tank so as to increase its internal volume. The reservoir 3 is then filled with fluid and gas, generally air. To obtain a distribution of sprayed product, it then suffices to act on the wall 1 using the thumb, for example against the action of the elastic element 4 so as to expel air through the fiber 6 soaked of fluid product. The air passing through the soaked fiber 6 creates a two-phase spray at the level of the dispensing orifice 50. As soon as the pressure on the actuating wall 1 is released, the latter resumes its shape represented on the Figure 2 due to the elastic action of element 4.
L'élément élastique 4 joue un rôle d'espaceur à l'état de stockage (fig. 1) en déterminant un volume minium pour le réservoir 3, un rôle d'amorceur lors de l'arrachage de l'élément d'obturateur 12 en augmentant le volume du réservoir 3, et un rôle de ressort de rappel lors de l'actionnement par pression sur la paroi d'actionnement 1.The elastic element 4 plays a role of spacer in the storage state (FIG. 1) by determining a minimum volume for the reservoir 3, a role of initiator during the lifting of the shutter element 12 by increasing the volume of the reservoir 3, and a role of return spring during actuation by pressure on the actuation wall 1.
L'élément élastique 4 peut par exemple se présenter sous la forme d'un ressort spirale conique comme on peut le voir sur les figures 1 et 2. Le ressort spiral conique présente l'avantage de pouvoir être comprimé de manière à amener la totalité de ses spires dans un même plan comme on peut le voir sur la figure 1. Le ressort présente alors une épaisseur coπespondant à celle d'une seule spire. Entre chaque spire, le ressort 4 définit un volume à l'intérieur duquel le produit fluide peut être stocké sans subir aucune pression de l'extérieur. On peut par exemple disposer la base du ressort spirale conique 4 en contact avec la paroi 2 de sorte que la spire de diamètre inférieur vient en contact avec la paroi d'actionnement 1 ce qui favorise le bombage de la paroi 1. Il s'agit là d'une conception particulièrement simple pour un élément élastique 4 permettant de procurer les avantages de la présente invention.The elastic element 4 can for example be in the form of a conical spiral spring as can be seen in Figures 1 and 2. The conical spiral spring has the advantage of being able to be compressed so as to bring all of its turns in the same plane as can be seen in Figure 1. The spring then has a thickness coπespondant to that of a single turn. Between each turn, the spring 4 defines a volume inside which the fluid product can be stored without being subjected to any pressure from the outside. One can for example arrange the base of the conical spiral spring 4 in contact with the wall 2 so that the turn of smaller diameter comes into contact with the actuating wall 1 which promotes the bending of the wall 1. This is there a particularly simple design for an elastic element 4 to provide the advantages of the present invention.
On se référera maintenant aux figures 3 à 5b pour présenter une autre forme de réalisation pour l'élément élastique 4. Il s'agit là d'une pièce entièrement plastique réalisée par exemple par moulage. Tout comme le ressort spiral conique des figures 1 et 2, ce ressort plastique a la faculté de pouvoir être comprimé de manière à ramener tous ses éléments constitutifs dans un même plan comme on peur le voir sur la figure 4a.We will now refer to Figures 3 to 5b to show another embodiment for the elastic element 4. This is an entirely plastic part produced for example by molding. Just like the conical spiral spring of Figures 1 and 2, this plastic spring has the ability to be compressed so as to bring all its constituent elements in the same plane as we can see in Figure 4a.
Cet élément élastique 4 comprend deux pattes élastiques 41 fixées par leur extrémité à deux barrettes 42 destinée à venir reposer contre la feuille 1 du distributeur. Les pattes élastiques 41 sont capables de se déformer élastiquement vers l'extérieur comme on peut le voir sur la figure 4b. Un bras articulé 4 relie chaque patte 41 sensiblement au niveau de son milieu. Les deux bras articulés 43 sont reliés à leur extrémité opposée à une tablette 44. Les deux bras 43 sont à la fois articulés par rapport aux pattes respectives 41 et à la tablette 44, de sorte que la tablette 44 peut être ramenée dans le plan défini par les pattes 41 et les barrettes 42 par déformation des pattes 41 vers l'extérieur comme on le voit sur les figures 4a et 4b. La surface supérieure de la tablette 44 est destinée à venir en contact avec la paroi d'actionnement 1 du distributeur. L'état de repos non contraint de cet élément élastique 4 est celui des figures 3, 5 a et 5b qui correspond également à celui du moulage. Ainsi, tant que le réservoir est isolé de l'extérieur, l'élément élastique 4 se présente sous la forme représentée sur les figures 4a et 4b, c'est-à-dire complètement plat. Dès que l'élément d'obturation 12 est retiré, l'élément élastique reprend sa forme initiale de repos des figures 5a et 5b.This elastic element 4 comprises two elastic tabs 41 fixed at their ends to two bars 42 intended to come to rest against the sheet 1 of the dispenser. The elastic tabs 41 are capable of deforming elastically towards the outside as can be seen in FIG. 4b. An articulated arm 4 connects each leg 41 substantially at the level of its middle. The two articulated arms 43 are connected at their opposite end to a shelf 44. The two arms 43 are both articulated with respect to the respective lugs 41 and to the shelf 44, so that the shelf 44 can be brought back into the defined plane by the legs 41 and the bars 42 by deformation of the legs 41 towards the outside as seen in FIGS. 4a and 4b. The upper surface of the shelf 44 is intended to come into contact with the actuating wall 1 of the dispenser. The unstressed rest state of this elastic element 4 is that of FIGS. 3, 5 a and 5 b which also corresponds to that of the molding. Thus, as long as the tank is isolated from the outside, the elastic element 4 is in the form shown in Figures 4a and 4b, that is to say completely flat. As soon as the closure element 12 is removed, the elastic element returns to its initial form of rest in FIGS. 5a and 5b.
Dans le mode de réalisation alternatif des figures 6a et 6b, il n'y a pas d'élément élastique, et c'est la paroi d'actionnement elle-même qui remplit cette caractéristique d'élasticité ou de mémoire de forme. Lors du scellage du réservoir, la paroi d'actionnement est enfoncée au maximum de sorte qu'il n'y a presque que du produit fluide dans le réservoir (fig. 6a). A son ouverture, de l'air rentre, et la paroi d'actionnement reprend sa forme de repos représentée sur la figure 6b. Dans les deux modes de réalisation, l'esprit de la présente invention réside dans le fait d'utiliser des moyens élastiques que l'on contraint à un état comprimé lors du scellage du distributeur de manière à lui conférer une configuration particulièrement plate et qui puissent se détendre de manière à augmenter le volume interne du réservoir par entrée de gaz par l'orifice de distribution une fois ouvert. In the alternative embodiment of FIGS. 6a and 6b, there is no elastic element, and it is the actuating wall itself which fulfills this characteristic of elasticity or shape memory. When sealing the tank, the actuating wall is pushed in as far as possible so that there is almost only fluid in the tank (fig. 6a). At its opening, air enters, and the actuating wall resumes its rest form shown in Figure 6b. In both embodiments, the spirit of the present invention resides in the fact of using elastic means which are forced into a compressed state during the sealing of the dispenser so as to give it a particularly flat configuration and which can relax so as to increase the internal volume of the tank by gas entry through the dispensing orifice once opened.

Claims

Revendications : Claims:
1.- Distributeur de produit fluide comprenant : un réservoir (3) contenant ledit produit fluide et pourvu d'au moins une paroi d'actionnement (10) sur laquelle on exerce une pression pour diminuer le volume du réservoir, ledit réservoir étant pourvu de moyens élastiques (4) aptes à augmenter le volume du réservoir. un orifice de distribution (50) par lequel le produit fluide est distribué en mélange avec un gaz pour créer une pulvérisation biphasique, un élément d'obturation amovible (12) pour obturer l'orifice de distribution (50) et ainsi isoler le réservoir de l'extérieur, caractérisé en ce que les moyens élastiques sont contraints de manière à ce que le réservoir définisse un volume minimum tant que l'élément d'obturation (12) obture l'orifice de distribution.1.- Fluid product dispenser comprising: a reservoir (3) containing said fluid product and provided with at least one actuating wall (10) on which pressure is exerted to decrease the volume of the reservoir, said reservoir being provided with elastic means (4) capable of increasing the volume of the tank. a dispensing orifice (50) through which the fluid is distributed in mixture with a gas to create a two-phase spray, a removable closure element (12) for closing the dispensing orifice (50) and thus isolating the reservoir from the exterior, characterized in that the elastic means are constrained so that the reservoir defines a minimum volume as long as the closure element (12) closes the dispensing orifice.
2.- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, dans lequel les moyens élastiques sont définis par la paroi d'actionnement qui présente une mémoire de forme lui permettant de revenir à un état de repos dans lequel le réservoir définit un volume maximum.2.- Device according to claim 1, wherein the elastic means are defined by the actuating wall which has a shape memory allowing it to return to a state of rest in which the reservoir defines a maximum volume.
3.- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, dans lequel les moyens élastiques comprennent un élément élastique disposé dans le réservoir.3.- Device according to claim 1, wherein the elastic means comprise an elastic element disposed in the tank.
4.- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, dans lequel l'élément élastique agit sur la paroi d'actionnement. 4.- Device according to claim 1, wherein the elastic element acts on the actuating wall.
5.- Dispositif selon la revendication 1 ou 4, dans lequel l'élément élastique se détend pour augmenter le volume du réservoir dès le retrait de l'élément d'obturation par entrée de gaz à travers l'orifice de distribution dans le réservoir.5.- Device according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the elastic member relaxes to increase the volume of the reservoir upon removal of the closure element by gas entry through the dispensing orifice in the reservoir.
6.- Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1, 3, 4 ou 5, dans lequel l'élément élastique se présente sous la forme d'un ressort spirale conique (4) apte à être écrasé à l'épaisseur d'une spire.6.- Device according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4 or 5, wherein the elastic element is in the form of a conical spiral spring (4) capable of being crushed to the thickness of a turn.
7.- Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1, 3, 4 ou 5, dans lequel l'élément élastique se présente sous la forme d'une pièce plastique moulée (4) comprenant des pattes élastiques (41) entre lesquelles s'étend un ensemble articulé (43, 44) apte à être contraint dans le même plan que les pattes. 7.- Device according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4 or 5, wherein the elastic element is in the form of a molded plastic part (4) comprising elastic tabs (41) between which s extends an articulated assembly (43, 44) capable of being constrained in the same plane as the legs.
8.- Dispositif selon la revendication 7, dans lequel l'ensemble comprend deux bras8.- Device according to claim 7, wherein the assembly comprises two arms
(43) reliés de manière articulée respectivement aux pattes élastiques (41) avec une de leurs extrémités et à une tablette (44) avec leurs autres extrémités, de sorte que la tablette peut être ramenée dans le plan des pattes (41) avec les bras (43).(43) connected in an articulated manner respectively to the elastic tabs (41) with one of their ends and a shelf (44) with their other ends, so that the shelf can be brought back in the plane of the legs (41) with the arms (43).
9.- Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le réservoir ne contient sensiblement que du produit fluide tant que l'élément d'obturation obture l'orifice de distribution. 9.- Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir contains substantially only fluid as long as the closure element closes the dispensing orifice.
EP00915251A 1999-04-02 2000-03-30 Container for fluid product sample designed to be pressed Expired - Lifetime EP1165395B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

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FR9904503 1999-04-02
FR9904503A FR2791645B1 (en) 1999-04-02 1999-04-02 FLUID PRODUCT SAMPLE FOR PRESS
PCT/FR2000/000796 WO2000059800A1 (en) 1999-04-02 2000-03-30 Container for fluid product sample designed to be pressed

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EP1165395A1 true EP1165395A1 (en) 2002-01-02
EP1165395B1 EP1165395B1 (en) 2005-02-09

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EP (1) EP1165395B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2003504278A (en)
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FR2791645B1 (en) 2001-06-15
US6971559B2 (en) 2005-12-06
US6752298B2 (en) 2004-06-22
US20030121939A1 (en) 2003-07-03
DE60018051D1 (en) 2005-03-17
FR2791645A1 (en) 2000-10-06
US6536635B1 (en) 2003-03-25
WO2000059800A1 (en) 2000-10-12
EP1165395B1 (en) 2005-02-09
US20040089673A1 (en) 2004-05-13
JP2003504278A (en) 2003-02-04
DE60018051T2 (en) 2006-01-05
ES2237417T3 (en) 2005-08-01

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