CA1130763A - Non-inverting liquid dispenser - Google Patents
Non-inverting liquid dispenserInfo
- Publication number
- CA1130763A CA1130763A CA362,147A CA362147A CA1130763A CA 1130763 A CA1130763 A CA 1130763A CA 362147 A CA362147 A CA 362147A CA 1130763 A CA1130763 A CA 1130763A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- vessel
- liquid
- diaphragm
- dispenser
- valve
- 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.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- 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
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B67D3/00—Apparatus or devices for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
- Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE:
A non-inverting liquid dispenser is taught, for use with a liquid-containing vessel. The container (vessel) may be flexible, partially flexible, or rigid, but usually the container is flexible. At all times, the dispenser remains at the bottom of the container, rather than the requirement to invert the container to dispense liquid contained therein. The dispenser has two diaphragm operating valves, one of which is biased towards an opening through which liquid will flow, when the interior of the liquid-containing vessel is at a positive pressure differential with respect to the ambient. When the pressure is relieved --i.e., a negative pressure differential with respect to the atmosphere develops within the container -- the other diaphragm valve opens, permitting the container to be vented. The only moving parts are, in fact, the diaphragms. In one embodiment, the diaphragms are side-to-side, and each is biased over a stub which is directed against its central portion; in a second embodiment, the diaphragms are superimposed one above the other, but each opens in a direction towards the other diaphragm; and in two further embodiments, the diaphragms are also above each other, but each opens in a direction away from the other diaphragm. It is possible to provide an antiseptic, non-inverting liquid dispenser where the liquid is contained within a collapsible bag in the dispenser, with the dispensing operation being as previously stated upon causing a positive pressure differential within the vessel, with respect to the ambient pressure. The dispenser may be connected to a source of pressurized air, by which a dispensing operation can be initiated and controlled by selectively coupling the interior of the vessel to the pressure source.
A non-inverting liquid dispenser is taught, for use with a liquid-containing vessel. The container (vessel) may be flexible, partially flexible, or rigid, but usually the container is flexible. At all times, the dispenser remains at the bottom of the container, rather than the requirement to invert the container to dispense liquid contained therein. The dispenser has two diaphragm operating valves, one of which is biased towards an opening through which liquid will flow, when the interior of the liquid-containing vessel is at a positive pressure differential with respect to the ambient. When the pressure is relieved --i.e., a negative pressure differential with respect to the atmosphere develops within the container -- the other diaphragm valve opens, permitting the container to be vented. The only moving parts are, in fact, the diaphragms. In one embodiment, the diaphragms are side-to-side, and each is biased over a stub which is directed against its central portion; in a second embodiment, the diaphragms are superimposed one above the other, but each opens in a direction towards the other diaphragm; and in two further embodiments, the diaphragms are also above each other, but each opens in a direction away from the other diaphragm. It is possible to provide an antiseptic, non-inverting liquid dispenser where the liquid is contained within a collapsible bag in the dispenser, with the dispensing operation being as previously stated upon causing a positive pressure differential within the vessel, with respect to the ambient pressure. The dispenser may be connected to a source of pressurized air, by which a dispensing operation can be initiated and controlled by selectively coupling the interior of the vessel to the pressure source.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION~ 0763 This invention relates to a non-inverting liquid dispenser; particularly one which is adapted to he associated with either flexible or rigid vessels or containers, and which comprises two flexible diaphragm-type valves for liquid dispensing and venting the vessel with which the dispenser is associated.
o BACKGROUND OF THE I~VENTIO~:
-In previous Canadian Patent 1,084,881,issued Sept. 2, 1980,in my name, there is shown a non-inverting liquid dispenser having two valve members, and generally associated with a flexible or at least partially flexible container. In that patent. a valving arrangement is discussed which requires what may essentially be regarded as check valves in ducts or chambers, bv which the flow of liquid from within the container may be determined when the container is at least partially compressed.
~ My above mentioned Canadian patenr also t:eaches a system for dispensing liquid in an hygenic and antisept-ic manner.
The present invention seeks to improve on the previous invention, and does so hy pl-oviding a more simple. economic and efficient dispenser which may be associat-ed with either flexible or rigid vessels or containers, and by which a substantially dripless dispensing operation may be achieved -- i.e., after any dispensing action, the dispensing valve is sufficiently well closed that no drip will occur at a later time.
It is particularly desirable to provide a dispenser which is , ~ .
`~ :
li;~O7~i3 adapted to fit and co-operate with the only opening in the vessel.
In that manner, the vessel may be filled in one position at~which~
the opening is at the top, the dispenser is assembled to the container or vessel, and when it is put into use it is placed in an inverted position so that the opening in the vessel and the dispenser are now at the bottom thereof, and the assembly remains in that position thereafter. Thus, vessels having dispensers according to the present invention may, for example, be used in such circumstances where they are placed on a bathroom or kitchen counter for dispensing hand lotion, or they may be fitted in a bracket attached to a wall for dispensing liquid soap, or they may be used in many circumstances particularly relating to hospital or infirmary uses where antiseptic conditions are of prime importance.
Yet another purpose of this invention is to provide an inexpensive and therefore disposable dispenser which also functions as a container closure, as discussed above. In other words, what this invention provides is a closure and dispenser for containers which, by virtue of its low cost, need only to be used once; but which, by mass production injecton moulding techniques of plastics products, may be easily prepared and assembled.
Some discussion has been made, above, as to the use of flexible or rigid containers. Flexible containers may especially be useful for products where it is intended that the product will be dispensed in small portions over a considerble period of time.
Such products may include hand lotions and creams, liquid soaps and other cleansers, shampoos , etc. In other circumstances, liquids may be contained in rigid vessels, to which a source of g pressurized air may be connected, for purposes of initiating a 1~30763 dispensing operation. Such circumstances may include hospitals .
where antis~ptic conditions are required for dispensing fluids such as those which will be used intravenously, as well as for purposes of cleansing agents and medicines for use by surgeons and other surgical staff, nursing and patient care staff, etc.
In all of these circumstances, whether with rigid or flexible containers, it is possible to enclose or contain the liquid to be dispensed within a flexible or collapsible plastic bag, which assures aseptic and sterile conditions, and which will be free of contamination by outside micro-organisms and the like. In such circumstances, a dispensing operation is initiated either by squeezing or forcing a positive pressure with respect to ambient against the liquid within the container, or by connecting the interior of the container to a source of pressurized air. In all events, because of the presence of the collapsible bag within which the liquid to be dispensed is contained, its aseptic condition is assured because of the flexibility of the collapsible bag.
Accordingly, this invention comprises a non-inverting liquid ~o dispenser for use with a liquid-containing vessel, wherein an air space is contained and is adapted so that a posltive pressure differentifll with respect to ambient pressure may be selectively applied against the liquid within the container so that a dispensing operation is initiated. By the nature of the present invention, the dispensing operation is initiated substantially at the same time that the positive pressure begins to act against the liquid, and the dispensing operation continues for substantially as long as the positive pressure differential, acting against the liquid, is maintained. The dispenser of the present invention is ~1307~3 adapted to be fitted to an opening of the vessel, and thereby functions as a closure for the vessel, and the opening is one which is destined to be at the bottom of the vessel when it is placed in its normal dispensing orientation, so that the liquid within the vessel is above the dispenser.
The principal characteristics of the dispenser are a pair of valve members, each of which has at least one valve sealing portion which is adapted to seal against a valve seat member co-operative with the valve sealing portion. The first of the o valve diaphragms is biased towards at least one opening -- a liquid dispensing opening -- through which liquid within the vessel will flow when valve sealing portion of the diaphragm is unseated by the pressure of the liquid against it; which occurs when the positive pressure differential within the vessel acts against the liquid. The bias of the first, liquid dispensing, diaphragm is such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion of the diaphragm over the liquid dispensing opening when there is substantially no or a negative pressure differential within the vessel with respect to the ambient pressure, acting against the ~o liquid contained within the vessel. The second of the valve diaphragms is biased towards at least one second -- air venti.ng --opening through which air will flow from the ambient towards the interior of the vessel when the valve sealing portion of the air valve di.aphragm is unseated, at such time when a negative pressure differential within the vessel, wi.th respect to the ambient pressure, occurs. The bias of the air valve diaphragm is such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion of the diaphragm over the second, air venting, opening when there is slight negative pressure differential within the vessel, with respect to -- ~--113~7~3 ~e ambient pressure.
In several different embodiments of the invention, as discussed hereafter in greater detail~ the valve diaphragms of the dispenser may be disposed either side-by-side or in superimposed relationship. The determination as to disposition of the valve diaphragms may be determined as a consequence of the size ~diameter) of the dispenser which may be required, and the relative costs considering other factors such as quantities, materials, and whether the vessel is intended to be connected to a source of pressurized air.
One particular feature of the present invention is that a dripless dispenser may be attained. This is particularly as a consequence of the spring tension of the air venting valve diaphragm, which closes the valve slightly before there is a pressure equalization of the amhient pressure to the interior of the vessel, and which thereby results in ~ ne~ative gauge pressure within the container. Because of the negative pressure, there is a tendency of the liquid to withdraw into the container, or at least upwards from the dispensing s~c-ut which is usually placed ~o downstream of the liquid dispensill~ dia~hragm or which may form a portion of it.
As noted a~ove~ a ~articula~- feature of the ~r~sent invention is that it prov;des a drip]ess disrenser~ which is also non-clogging. This latter feature comes ~a--~icula~ as a consequence o the slight negative pressure with respect to ambient which develops within the ves~sel, coupled with liquid characteristics such as viscositv and surface tension. For these reasons, the precise dimensions of dispensers and particularly ~g diaphragm valves of the dispensers, according to this invention, 1~3~763 may vary acording to the liquid with which such dispenser is intended to be used. Larger diameters of openings, and thicker diaphragm valves, may be used with higher viscosity liquids (such as liquid soap or shampoo) than those which are used with lower viscosity liquids (such as aseptic cleansers, alcohol-based hairdressin~s, etc.) BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
- The above features and objects of the invention are discussed in greater detail hereafter, in association with the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a liquid dispenser according to this invention;
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of liquid dispenser according to this invention;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of the liquid diaphragm of the first embodiment;
~o Figure 4 is a perspective view of the air diaphragm of the first embodiment;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the air valve member used in the flrst embodiment;
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of liquid dispenser according to this invention;
Figure 7 is a view looking downwards in the direction of arrows 7-7 in Figure 6, and Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of liquid dispenser according to this invention.
11307~3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
_ _ As noted, this invention provides a non-inverting liquid dispenser, which may have the embodiment of liquid dispenser 10 shown in Figure 1, or dispenser 12 of Figure 2, dispenser 14 of Figure 7, or dispenser 15 of Figure 8. In all embodiments, the -dispenser is intended for use with a liquid-containing vessel, such as vessel 16, which may be flexible, partially flexible, or rigid as discussed hereafter.
~ The dispenser is adapted to be threadably engaged and retained Oll the vessel, such as by threads 18 co-operating with threads 20 on the vessel. Clearly, the dispenser of any embodiment according to this invention functions also as a closure for the vessel, and as dlscussed in greater detail hereafter may be such that the vessel may be shipped either with the closure (dispenser) up or down. In any event, each dispenser according to the present invention functions in the downward position so that the vessel is in its inverted position but the dispenser is non-inverting.
Referring specifically to the first embodiment, shown in o detail in Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 5, there are a pair of valve members, being a first, liquid valve member 22 and a second, air valve member 24. Each of the valve members 22 and 24 is a flexible diaphragm, and is referred to as such hereafter. Before the first dispensing operation of the dispenser of Figure 1, the liquid valve diaphragm may have a tip 26 (shown in dashed lines) which may be cut, pinched or twisted off.
Thereafter, the dispenser may have a cap 28 fitted to the liquid valve diaphragm 22 except during dispensing operations but as noted hereafterg the cap 28 is not generally required.
The dispenser body comprises a neck 30, threaded at 18 as noted above, and a base surface 32, with a collar 34 beneath the base 32. An opening may be formed in the collar 34 in the area of the liquid valve diaphragm 22, and the edge of that opening is shown at 36 in Figure 1. On the upper side of the base 32 there is a stud collar 38, and around the periphery of the base 32 near the neck portion 30 is a V-shaped groove 40 bounded by a low I D peripheral wall 42 on the inside thereof. By tightening the threaded neck 30 onto the threaded neck 44 of the vessel 16, so that threads 18 and 20 co-act, and by turning the dispenser onto the neck of the vessel, a secure liquid seal of the bottom portion 46 of the neck 44 into the V-shaped groove 40 is secured, thereby assuring a liquid seal of the vessel 16.
The liquid valve diaphragm 22 is snap-fitted over an L-shaped collar 48 whioh extends down from the underside of the base 32;
and a perimeter seal is effected by the fitting of the periphery of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 over the collar 48. The air o valve diaphragm 24 fits into a neck 50, and is held in place by an air valve member 52 which may be snap-fitted or threaded into the neck 50. Threads 54 may be formed on the outer surfaces of the neck 50, at the lower end thereof, so that a source of pressurized air may be connected to the dispenser as discussed in greater detail hereafter.
There are formed through the base 32, several openings. They may include one or more liquid dispensing openings 56, and an opening 58 centrally located with respect to the stub neck 38.
Considering the liquid valve diaphragm 22, a portion 60 of that ` ` 1~30763 .aphragm may seat against the edges62 of each of the openings 56. In that sense, the portion 60 of the diaphra m ~unctions as a valve seal which seals a~ainst the valve seat 62; i.e., sealing portion 60 and valve seat 62 function as a liquid valve.
However, it is also to be noted that the central portion 64 of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 has an opening 66 therein, and that it seals over a stub 68 formed on the underside of the base 32, thereby forming the principal liquid valve.
The air valve diaphragm 24 has a central opening 70 therein, which fits over a central button portion 72 of the air valve member 52. At least one openin~ 74 is formed in the air valve member 52. A chamber 75 is formed at the upper side of the air valve diaphragm 24, beneath the base of the vessel: as discussed in greater detail hereafter.
Referring, for the moment, to Figure 3, the liquid valve diaphragm 22 is shown in some greater detail, but in upside down position compared to that shown in Figure 1. The central portion 64 is shown, as we]l as the tip 26. To assure ease of removal of the tip 26 (if it is moulded in place) a ~roove 76 may be moulded o in the su?face of the central neck portion 64 at the point where the tip 26 will be -etnovt-~cl. I`l-e stalin~ po-tion h~ is on the underslde of the diapllragnl in the area gtnel-all! surrounding the central portion 64. The l~recise an~ulclr orit-~n~-ation of the liguid ~ralve diaphra~ln 22 in ~lace ovel- ~he stub 6~ antl the L-shaped collar 48 is iminatel~ial. To ease the flexibility of the liquid valve diaphra~gm particularly as d;scussed hereafter, it may have a ridge 78 formed therein, so that it may have a slight bello~s-like ac,ion ~hen operating.
Likewise, the air valve diaphragm 24 may have an accordion or _ g _ 11307~3 bellows-like ridge 80 formed in it. Also, it is evident that, even though the air valve diaphragm is formed having a tubular-like collar 82, the bottom end of which is secure against the upper edge of the periphery of air valve member 52, the bottom of the diaphragm 24 may be substantially planar in its peripheral area, with a collar or sleeve upstanding from the air valve member 52.
With reference to the air valve member as shown in Figure 5, the shape of the button portion 72 thereof is substantially equivalent to the shape of the underside of the air valve diaphragm 24 in its central region.
Obviously, the underside of the air valve diaphragm 24 in the central portion thereof forms a sealing portion, which seals against a valve seat portion being the upper surface of the portion 72 of the air valve member 52.
So as to assist in the dispensing of all of the liquid 86 within the vessel 16, the upper face of the base 32 of the dispenser may be sloped, in thé regions thereof which are remote from the liquid openings 56.
o Assuming, now, that the vessel 16, or at least a portion of it, is flexible, the operation of the dispenser of the first embodiment according to this invention is explained. Of course it will be understood that the tip 26 of the liquid diaphragm valve 22 has been removed, and that the cap 28 is not in place.
Pressure against the liquid 86 in the vessel 16 is created, by pressing against the deformable portion of the vessel 16, by squeezing the vessel, or otherwise. In any event, the pressure against the liquid is within an air space also contained within the vessel 16, and acts against the liquid 86. That pressure, in ~ 7 ~ 3 turn, acts against the liquid valve diaphragm 22, at least the sealing portions 64 and 60 thereof against stub 68 and edge 62, causing the sealing port;ons to unseat so that the liquid 86 may commence to flow through the liquid openings 56 and 66. For so long as the pressure against the liquid 86 is maintained, liquid will continue to flow through the liquid openings 56, past the central stub 68 and through the central portion 64 of the liquid valve diaphragm 22, exiting therefrom through the opening 66.
When the pressure against the liquid within the vessel 16 is o relieved~ such as by releasing pressure against the deformable portion of the vessel or releasing the squeezing action against it, and the vessel or the deformable portion thereof recovers its original position, a negative pressure with respect to the ambient forms within the vessel, in the air space thereof above the liquid 86. An air tube 90, fitted into the stub neck 38, is in gas communication with the air space within the vessel 16, and also to the air chamber 75 within the collar 50 and above the air valve diaphragm 24. Because of the negative pressure, the air valve diaphragm unseats from the air valve member 52, so that air flows o through the opening 74 in the air valve member 52, and thro~lgh the opening 70 in the air valve diaphragm. That air flow will continue until there is approximately an equivalent pressure of the air space within the vessel 16 to the ambient pressure;
however, there will be a slight negative pressure due to elasticity or spring constant of the air valve diaphragm 24, tending to cause it to re-seat against the air valve member 52.
Because there is a slight negative pressure within the vessel 16, there is a tendency of the liquid to withdraw into the vessel, so that a dripless sealing of the vessel 16 by the liquid 11~0763 diaphragm is assured.
It is now evident that a dispensing operation may continue for substantially as long as the positive pressure differential within the vessel is maintained. Thus, another manner by which the dispensing operation may be initiated and maintained is suggested; and particularly the means by which hygienic dispensing of a liquid contained within the vessel 16 becomes evident.
If a source of compressed air is connected to the vessel in such a way that it has gas communication to the air valve member 52 and the air valve diaphragm 24, then at any time that the underside of the air valve diaphragm 24 is pressurized with respect to the pressure within the vessel 16, the air valve diaphragm 24 will open, pressurizing the interior of the vessel 16, and causing a dispensing action through the liquid passages 56 and 66, and past the liquid valve diaphragm 22. Once again, therefore, the dispensing operation continues for as long as a positive pressure differential within the vessel 16 is maintained.
When the pressure is relieved, the dispensing operation may continue for a short interval, and then will stop because of the equalization of pressures (minus the closing pressure equivalent of the liquid valve diaphragm 22) from within the vessel 16 to the ambient.
The source of compressed air may be such as a foot pump, or a valve in an air line connected to a central pressurized air source of the sort which may be found in hospitals or industrial installations. For convenience, an air hose may be connected over the threads or stub ring 54 on the outside of the collar 50. By this means, an easy connection of an air hose to the dispenser is permitted, without undoing any parts of the dispenser, so that the 113~7~3 contents within the vessel are in no way exposed or contacted to any outside agent when the air hose is being connected to the dispenser.
When it is desired that the dispensing operation be aseptic,for such purposes as fluids intended for intravenous injection, or surgical scrubbing liquids, a membrane may be placed between the pressurizing air within the vessel 16 and the liquid 86. This is most easily accomplished by containing the liquid 86 within a collapsible plastic bag; although the liquid may be l~ contained within the vessel 16 and the air injected into an inflatable bladder or bag in the interior of the vessel 16.
A slight, spring tension may be imposed within each of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 and the air valve diaphragm 24, by proper dimensioning of the stub 68 and button 72 which act against each diaphragm, respectively, in their central regions.
Thus, the liquid valve diaphragm 22 may be slightly tensioned downwardly by proportioning the stub 68 to be very slightly long when compared to the relative portions of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 before it is assembled to the dispenser; likewise, L the button 72 may be slightly high when compared to the relative portions of the air valve diaphragm 24 before it is assembled to the dispenser. In this way, positive sealing and seating of the valve is assured; and in respect of the liquid valve diaphragm, a "glove-like" seal of the neck 64 over the stub 68 is effected, thereby contributing to the assurance of a dripless seal.
Having regard, once again, to a sterile dispenser, the assembly of a collapsible thin-walled bag containing the liquid into the dispenser may be carried out in sterile conditions, and may be such that the seal does not break until the assembly onto ~13(~7~3 the dispenser of a specially adapted valve or puncturing device, which may already be secured to intravenous feed lines, thereby assuring the continued sterility of the system. In such instances, of course, the pressurizing air within the vessel 16, whether it may be present by virtue of simple venting of the vessel or by virtue of gas communication of the interior of the vessel to a source of pressurized air, never touches or contacts the liquid.
Referring now to the second embodiment of the present l~ invention, illustrated in Figure 2, it will be noted that the principles referred to above with respect to the dispensing operation and the actions of the liquid valve diaphragm and the air valve diaphragm, are identical. In the dispenser 12, which again is threadably secured to the vessel 16, with a collar 34 having an opening 36, all as before, the liquid valve diaphragm 222 and the air valve diaphragm 224 are in superimposed relationship one to the other, as opposed to the side-by-side relationship of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 and the air valve diaphragm 24 of the embodiment of Figure 1. Each diaphragm has a LO centrally disposed sealing portion 192 or 292, and a perimeter sealing portion 94. The diaphragms, or either of them, may have one or more concentric ridges or corrugations 96.
Also, as shown in Figure 2, the central sealing portion 192 of the liquid valve diaphragm 222 seals against the valve seat portions 98 of the base 100 of the dispenser 12, and the valve sealing portion 192 protrudes into and seals a liquid passage 102 through the base 100. It will be noted that the base 100 is assembled over the base portion 104, with which the threaded collar portion 106 is integrally moulded.
_ ly_ An air passage 108 is formed in the base 104, and is sealed by the central sealing portion 292 of the air valve diaphragm 224.
A spigot or nozzle 110 is also moulded integrally with the base 104, and-has a passage 112 leading to it from the chamber 114 which is on the upper side of the liquid valve diaphragm 222 beneath the base 100. A chamber 116 is formed on the lower side of the air valve diaphragm 224 above the base 104, and communicates through an opening 118 to a chamber 120 and thence through an opening 122 in base 100 to an air tube 124 which is secured in a stub collar 126.
The bottom end of the nozzle 110, at 128, may initially be moulded in such a manner as to be closed, so that the tip 130 (shown in dashed lines) may be snapped or cut off prior to the initial dispensing operation. Likewise, & cap may be placed over the nozzle 110, but is not normally required in view of the substantially leak-proof sealing of the liquid passage 102 by the sealing portion 192 of the liquid valve diaphragm 222 against the valve seat 98.
~o The operation of the embodiment of Figure 2 is the same as spoken of above. In other words, if the vessel 16 or a portion of it is deformed or squeezed -- or, alternatively, if the air passage 108 is connected to a source of pressurized air -- a positive pressure differential within the vessel 16 occurs, causing pressure against the liquid 86, which in turn causes an upsetting or unsealing of the sealing portion 192 of liquid valve diaphragm 222 so that liquid 86 may flow through the liquid opening 102, through the chamber 114, past the opening 112 and L q through the nozzle 110 to the exterior. When the force causing _, _ 11307~3 the positive pressure diffe-ential within the vessel 16 is released, a negative pressure differential will occur, and the sealing portion 292 of the air valve diaphragm 224 unseats so that air will flow through the passage 108 and ultimately through the air tube 124 into the interior of the vessel 16. The closing forces of each of the liquid valve diaphragm 222 and the air valve diaphragm 224 are such that a positive closing or sealing force is assured, and are such that a slight negative pressure differential within the vessel 16 will occur.
o Referring now to Figures 6 and 7. a third embodiment of dispenser according to the present invention is taught. In this embodiment, it is particularly contemplated that the dispenser will operate with fluids of low viscosity, and moreover that steri]e conditions are not imperative. This third embodiment of dispenser according to this invention is, therefore, most appropriate for such purposes as surgical scrubbing solutions, hairdressing formulations, and other low viscosity liquids.
The dispenser 14 has a collar portion 132, threaded at 18 as before for engagement with the neck of a vessel. A liquid valve 1 diaphragm 322 is placed over the bottom flanges 134 of the dispenser, and may have a downwardly directed collar portion 136 integrally formed therewith. The collar or flange serves, of course, to support the vessel in its inverted, non-inverting, position if it is desired to stand it on a counter or shelf. An air valve diaphragm 324 is fitted into a ring portion 138 beneath a stub ring 140, and may have an upturned flange 142 at its periphery. An opening 144 is formed through the lower valve diaphragm 322, and a plurality of openings 146 are formed in the ~9 upper valve diaphragm 324.
In the embodiment of dispenser 14 shown in Figures 6 and 7, a chamber 143 lies in the space between the valve diaphragms 322 and 324, and may have several spokes 150 formed integrally therein for purposes of ridigity. An inner column wall 152 defines a vent tube 154 which is in gas communication with the opening 144 through the lower valve diaphragm 322. The chamber 148 is bounded, at its outer periphery, by wall 156.
To initiate a dispensing operation of the dispenser 14 of Figures 6 and 7, the vessel 16 is deformed or squeezed, thereby o creating pressure against the liquid 86, as before. It will be understood that chamber 148 is filled with liquid, and is in liquid communication to the interior of vessel 16 through the openings 146 in valve diaphraa~m 324. The lower end 158 of the tube 152 seats against a central portion 160 of the valve di.aphragm 322, in such a manner that seat 158 and sealin~ portion 160 are normally sealed, but may be upset when the l.iquid ~6 withi.n the vessel 16 and the chamber 148 is pressurized. At that time, the liqui.d flows downwardly through the opening 144, from whence it is di.spensed. When the pressure against the liqui.ci 86 is relieved, the valve diaphragm 322 -- whi.ch, in th;s case, is acting in the same manner as the l.;qu;.d valve dia~hragms referred to above -- re-seats, therebv stopping further ]iquid flow from the dispenser. At that time, the negative clifferential from the interior of the vessel 16 to the ambient is established, and air pressure will upset the central sealing portion 162 of the upper valve membrane 324 from the seat 164 at the upper end of the tube 152, so that air will flow upwardly through the tube 152 and along the underside of the valve diaphragm 324, through the openings ~9 146, and bubble upwardly through the liquid ~6 to the air space 1~307~3 within the vessel 16. Obviously, this embodiment is more readily adapted for use with low viscosity liquids, as discussed above.
Any small amounts of liquid which may be in the vicinity of the opening 144 in valve diaphragm 322 would be aspirated into the tube 152, providing once again a dripless and non- clogging dispensing action.
A fourth embodiment is shown in Figure 8. The dispenser 15 shown in that figure is intended to be threadably engaged to the threaded neck portion 166 of the vessel 16, at threaded collar lo 168. A flange 170 depends from the collar 168, and serves both to protect the valve diaphragms of the dispenser and to provide a stand on which the vessel may be supported. The liquid valve diaphragm 422 is secured over a circular and peripheral lip 172 of a plate 174 which is below the base portion 176 of the dispenser, and may be press fitted or otherwise secured. In any event, several passages 178 -- usually three in number -- are formed in the base portion 176 so as to provide liquid comunication from within the vesel 16 to the chamber 180 formed above the liquid diaphragm 422. The liquid diaphragm 422 seats against a stub 182, L at 184; and unseats so as to provide liquid flow downward through the dispensing opening 186 when pressure acts against the liquid within the vessel 16. Likewise, when pressure is relieved against the liquid, so as to cause the air valve diaphragm 424 to unseat against its seat 188 in the region 190, air flows through the chamber 192 to the air tube 194 or to an expandable air bag if one is secured within the vessel 16. Clearly, the operation of the embodiment of Fig~-re 8 is similar to the previous three embodiments discussed in detail above.
Thus, a review of the four embodiments of dispenser according I ~_ 1~30763 to this invention, which have been particularly described above, will show that the principles of operation remain the same in all instances, and that a dispensin~ operation is initiated substantially at the same time that a positive pressure differential oceurs within the vessel 16 with respect to the ambient, and acts against the liquid within the vessel -- whether directly against the liquid or against a collapsible bag within which the liquid may be contained or against an inflatable bladder within which air may be held. The dispensing operation continues 1 for substantially as long as the positive pressure differential is maintained and the positive pressure acts against the liquid. The bias of the liquid sealing diaphragm is such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion over the valve seat member against which it seats, when there is substantially no pressure differential or a slight negative pressure differential within the vessel. The bias of the air valve diaphragm is such that it will re-seat the sealing portion of that diaphragm causing a slight negative pressure differential or no pressure differential within the vessel, with respect to the ambient pressure.
~o In the embodiment of Figure 1, the dispenser h~s the liquid valve diaphragm and the air valve diaphragm in side-by-side relationship; and in the embodiments of Figures 2, 6 and 8, the liquid valve diaphragm and air valve diaphragm are in superimposed relationships. However, in the embodiment of Figure 2 the air valve diaphragm is the lower diaphragm and the liquid valve diaphragm is the upper diaphragm, whereas the liquid valve diaphragm is the lower diaphragm in Figures 6 or 8, with the air valve diaphragm being the upper diaphragm. In the embodiment of Figure 2, the valve diaphragms open by movement of either _ /9 _ 1~30763 diaphragm in a direction towards the other diaphragm; and in the embodiment of Figures 6 or 8, each valve diaphragm opens by movement of the sealing portion thereof in a direction away from the other diaphragm.
In the embodiment of Figure 2, the assembly of t~e diaphragms is achieved at the peripheral sealing portions 94 of each diaphragm, where they are forced into sealing contact with each other by the relationship of the other fitting pieces of the dispenser, part~cularly pieces 100 and 104.
In any of the dispenser embodiments of the present invention, a condition may occur if an unsealed vessel undergoes considerable temperature change, such that there is a possibility of some liquid leaking past the sealing portion of the liquid valve diaphragm, unless certain measures are taken. In any event, such possibilities are temporary, and are overcome when the liquid recovers substantially the same temperature as that of the amblent.
For example, in the event that an unsealed container undergoes a rise in temperature of approximately 50 degrees F., ~ the air within the vessel will expand by approximately 8% of its total volume (5% in the event of a 30-degree rise in temperature).
If, however, a portion of the vessel is arranged by means of a bellows-section or a thin-walled section to allow for expansion of air when the temperature rises, then the temporary increase of air pressure can be accommodated without leakage of liquid. At the time that the liquid and gas within the vessel recovers the temperature of the ambient, equilibrium is re-established. Thus, if there are thin, expandable and collapsibe areas of the vessel L ~ wall, then when a negative pressure occurs within the vessel, the -- aD
!' - . 1130763 walls may collapse slightly. However, when a temperature change occurs, either upwards or downwards, such that the air within the vessel changes volume, that change can be accommodated by adjustment of the thin-walled areas of the vessel wall under the force of the change of volume and pressure within the vessel.
It should be noted, however, that where a thin-walled portion is provided, it must be in an area where a squeezing action aqainst the vessel occurs when a dispensing action is initiated.
~1~0763 The above overcomes the tendency of the thin-walled section otherwise to pop or balloon outwards during a dispensing operation when a positive pressure differential is effected within the vessel with respect to the~ambient. Of course, when temperature has stabilized, especially if the vessel has undergone a sharp temperature rise, whatever ballooning may have occurred in the thin-walled section will be ~liminated when the next dispensing operation is initiated.
In some cases, it may be desirable to have a controlled, slow dispensing action of the liquid contents of a vessel, over a period of time. ~or example, it may be desired to have a dispensing action caused upon change of temperature of the ambient within which the vessel and dispenser is placed, such as in a dishwasher. In that case, dishwashing liquid or spot cleaner may be dispensed into the dishwasher after the hot water used for the washing operation has been injected into the dishwasher and the interior temperature of the dishwasher has increased. Moreover, because of the control dispensing--determined by proper dimensioning and choice of the physical characteristics of the dispenser elements, and particularly the diaphragm members thereof-- extra or additional dispensing operations can be precluded, so that only a single dispensing operation occurs during any one dishwashing cycle. Likewise, clothes washers, and driers, commercial washing apparatus, dry cleaning machines, autoclave, etc. may have liquid dispensers placed therein from which an automatic liquid dispensing upon raising of the temperature within such apparatus, is achieved.
In the circumstances where a vessel having any dispenser according to this invention, and particularly a dispenser such 11307~3 as that illustrated in Figure 1, is connected to a source of external pressure, it is possible that the air valve diaphragm member 24, may be relocated. In that instance, a bellows may be '!
placed downstream of the vessel, in such a manner that a squeezing or pumping action against the bellows causes air within the air tube connected be.ween the vessel and the bellows to compress or be pressurized, and thereby cause a positive pressure differ-ential within the vessel to occur, with respect to the ambient, thus causing a dispensing action. When the pressure creating Ic operation ceases, the relocated air valve diaphragm which functions as a check valve downstream from the bellows, will close, so that a negative pressure occurs in the air communication tube, thereby stopping the dispensing action and, as discussed above, causing any liquid in the dispensing tube to draw back into the vessel.
Further, when a dispensing action is caused by vi.rtue of an external pressurizing force, in the usual cases discussed above, it may be that a negative pressure differential within the vessel with respect to the ambient may not occur. ~owever, '~ a dripless liquid vent or tube may still be achieved simply by means of properly dimensioning and choosing the physical character-istics of the liquid di.aphgram so that it seals with somewhat greater force against its seat.
Sti.ll further, another form of liquid dispenser according to this invention ~lay be conveniently achieved by the permanently downwardly facing and positioned dispenser, by vacuum withdrawal of the liquid contained within the vessel, especially by means of a venturi. This is especially applicable in such circumstances 7 q as dispensers which are required to dispense sanitizing or deodorizing liquids into flush~ng liquids, such as public toilets and urinals.
-- ~ L-
o BACKGROUND OF THE I~VENTIO~:
-In previous Canadian Patent 1,084,881,issued Sept. 2, 1980,in my name, there is shown a non-inverting liquid dispenser having two valve members, and generally associated with a flexible or at least partially flexible container. In that patent. a valving arrangement is discussed which requires what may essentially be regarded as check valves in ducts or chambers, bv which the flow of liquid from within the container may be determined when the container is at least partially compressed.
~ My above mentioned Canadian patenr also t:eaches a system for dispensing liquid in an hygenic and antisept-ic manner.
The present invention seeks to improve on the previous invention, and does so hy pl-oviding a more simple. economic and efficient dispenser which may be associat-ed with either flexible or rigid vessels or containers, and by which a substantially dripless dispensing operation may be achieved -- i.e., after any dispensing action, the dispensing valve is sufficiently well closed that no drip will occur at a later time.
It is particularly desirable to provide a dispenser which is , ~ .
`~ :
li;~O7~i3 adapted to fit and co-operate with the only opening in the vessel.
In that manner, the vessel may be filled in one position at~which~
the opening is at the top, the dispenser is assembled to the container or vessel, and when it is put into use it is placed in an inverted position so that the opening in the vessel and the dispenser are now at the bottom thereof, and the assembly remains in that position thereafter. Thus, vessels having dispensers according to the present invention may, for example, be used in such circumstances where they are placed on a bathroom or kitchen counter for dispensing hand lotion, or they may be fitted in a bracket attached to a wall for dispensing liquid soap, or they may be used in many circumstances particularly relating to hospital or infirmary uses where antiseptic conditions are of prime importance.
Yet another purpose of this invention is to provide an inexpensive and therefore disposable dispenser which also functions as a container closure, as discussed above. In other words, what this invention provides is a closure and dispenser for containers which, by virtue of its low cost, need only to be used once; but which, by mass production injecton moulding techniques of plastics products, may be easily prepared and assembled.
Some discussion has been made, above, as to the use of flexible or rigid containers. Flexible containers may especially be useful for products where it is intended that the product will be dispensed in small portions over a considerble period of time.
Such products may include hand lotions and creams, liquid soaps and other cleansers, shampoos , etc. In other circumstances, liquids may be contained in rigid vessels, to which a source of g pressurized air may be connected, for purposes of initiating a 1~30763 dispensing operation. Such circumstances may include hospitals .
where antis~ptic conditions are required for dispensing fluids such as those which will be used intravenously, as well as for purposes of cleansing agents and medicines for use by surgeons and other surgical staff, nursing and patient care staff, etc.
In all of these circumstances, whether with rigid or flexible containers, it is possible to enclose or contain the liquid to be dispensed within a flexible or collapsible plastic bag, which assures aseptic and sterile conditions, and which will be free of contamination by outside micro-organisms and the like. In such circumstances, a dispensing operation is initiated either by squeezing or forcing a positive pressure with respect to ambient against the liquid within the container, or by connecting the interior of the container to a source of pressurized air. In all events, because of the presence of the collapsible bag within which the liquid to be dispensed is contained, its aseptic condition is assured because of the flexibility of the collapsible bag.
Accordingly, this invention comprises a non-inverting liquid ~o dispenser for use with a liquid-containing vessel, wherein an air space is contained and is adapted so that a posltive pressure differentifll with respect to ambient pressure may be selectively applied against the liquid within the container so that a dispensing operation is initiated. By the nature of the present invention, the dispensing operation is initiated substantially at the same time that the positive pressure begins to act against the liquid, and the dispensing operation continues for substantially as long as the positive pressure differential, acting against the liquid, is maintained. The dispenser of the present invention is ~1307~3 adapted to be fitted to an opening of the vessel, and thereby functions as a closure for the vessel, and the opening is one which is destined to be at the bottom of the vessel when it is placed in its normal dispensing orientation, so that the liquid within the vessel is above the dispenser.
The principal characteristics of the dispenser are a pair of valve members, each of which has at least one valve sealing portion which is adapted to seal against a valve seat member co-operative with the valve sealing portion. The first of the o valve diaphragms is biased towards at least one opening -- a liquid dispensing opening -- through which liquid within the vessel will flow when valve sealing portion of the diaphragm is unseated by the pressure of the liquid against it; which occurs when the positive pressure differential within the vessel acts against the liquid. The bias of the first, liquid dispensing, diaphragm is such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion of the diaphragm over the liquid dispensing opening when there is substantially no or a negative pressure differential within the vessel with respect to the ambient pressure, acting against the ~o liquid contained within the vessel. The second of the valve diaphragms is biased towards at least one second -- air venti.ng --opening through which air will flow from the ambient towards the interior of the vessel when the valve sealing portion of the air valve di.aphragm is unseated, at such time when a negative pressure differential within the vessel, wi.th respect to the ambient pressure, occurs. The bias of the air valve diaphragm is such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion of the diaphragm over the second, air venting, opening when there is slight negative pressure differential within the vessel, with respect to -- ~--113~7~3 ~e ambient pressure.
In several different embodiments of the invention, as discussed hereafter in greater detail~ the valve diaphragms of the dispenser may be disposed either side-by-side or in superimposed relationship. The determination as to disposition of the valve diaphragms may be determined as a consequence of the size ~diameter) of the dispenser which may be required, and the relative costs considering other factors such as quantities, materials, and whether the vessel is intended to be connected to a source of pressurized air.
One particular feature of the present invention is that a dripless dispenser may be attained. This is particularly as a consequence of the spring tension of the air venting valve diaphragm, which closes the valve slightly before there is a pressure equalization of the amhient pressure to the interior of the vessel, and which thereby results in ~ ne~ative gauge pressure within the container. Because of the negative pressure, there is a tendency of the liquid to withdraw into the container, or at least upwards from the dispensing s~c-ut which is usually placed ~o downstream of the liquid dispensill~ dia~hragm or which may form a portion of it.
As noted a~ove~ a ~articula~- feature of the ~r~sent invention is that it prov;des a drip]ess disrenser~ which is also non-clogging. This latter feature comes ~a--~icula~ as a consequence o the slight negative pressure with respect to ambient which develops within the ves~sel, coupled with liquid characteristics such as viscositv and surface tension. For these reasons, the precise dimensions of dispensers and particularly ~g diaphragm valves of the dispensers, according to this invention, 1~3~763 may vary acording to the liquid with which such dispenser is intended to be used. Larger diameters of openings, and thicker diaphragm valves, may be used with higher viscosity liquids (such as liquid soap or shampoo) than those which are used with lower viscosity liquids (such as aseptic cleansers, alcohol-based hairdressin~s, etc.) BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
- The above features and objects of the invention are discussed in greater detail hereafter, in association with the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a liquid dispenser according to this invention;
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of liquid dispenser according to this invention;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of the liquid diaphragm of the first embodiment;
~o Figure 4 is a perspective view of the air diaphragm of the first embodiment;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the air valve member used in the flrst embodiment;
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of liquid dispenser according to this invention;
Figure 7 is a view looking downwards in the direction of arrows 7-7 in Figure 6, and Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of liquid dispenser according to this invention.
11307~3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
_ _ As noted, this invention provides a non-inverting liquid dispenser, which may have the embodiment of liquid dispenser 10 shown in Figure 1, or dispenser 12 of Figure 2, dispenser 14 of Figure 7, or dispenser 15 of Figure 8. In all embodiments, the -dispenser is intended for use with a liquid-containing vessel, such as vessel 16, which may be flexible, partially flexible, or rigid as discussed hereafter.
~ The dispenser is adapted to be threadably engaged and retained Oll the vessel, such as by threads 18 co-operating with threads 20 on the vessel. Clearly, the dispenser of any embodiment according to this invention functions also as a closure for the vessel, and as dlscussed in greater detail hereafter may be such that the vessel may be shipped either with the closure (dispenser) up or down. In any event, each dispenser according to the present invention functions in the downward position so that the vessel is in its inverted position but the dispenser is non-inverting.
Referring specifically to the first embodiment, shown in o detail in Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 5, there are a pair of valve members, being a first, liquid valve member 22 and a second, air valve member 24. Each of the valve members 22 and 24 is a flexible diaphragm, and is referred to as such hereafter. Before the first dispensing operation of the dispenser of Figure 1, the liquid valve diaphragm may have a tip 26 (shown in dashed lines) which may be cut, pinched or twisted off.
Thereafter, the dispenser may have a cap 28 fitted to the liquid valve diaphragm 22 except during dispensing operations but as noted hereafterg the cap 28 is not generally required.
The dispenser body comprises a neck 30, threaded at 18 as noted above, and a base surface 32, with a collar 34 beneath the base 32. An opening may be formed in the collar 34 in the area of the liquid valve diaphragm 22, and the edge of that opening is shown at 36 in Figure 1. On the upper side of the base 32 there is a stud collar 38, and around the periphery of the base 32 near the neck portion 30 is a V-shaped groove 40 bounded by a low I D peripheral wall 42 on the inside thereof. By tightening the threaded neck 30 onto the threaded neck 44 of the vessel 16, so that threads 18 and 20 co-act, and by turning the dispenser onto the neck of the vessel, a secure liquid seal of the bottom portion 46 of the neck 44 into the V-shaped groove 40 is secured, thereby assuring a liquid seal of the vessel 16.
The liquid valve diaphragm 22 is snap-fitted over an L-shaped collar 48 whioh extends down from the underside of the base 32;
and a perimeter seal is effected by the fitting of the periphery of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 over the collar 48. The air o valve diaphragm 24 fits into a neck 50, and is held in place by an air valve member 52 which may be snap-fitted or threaded into the neck 50. Threads 54 may be formed on the outer surfaces of the neck 50, at the lower end thereof, so that a source of pressurized air may be connected to the dispenser as discussed in greater detail hereafter.
There are formed through the base 32, several openings. They may include one or more liquid dispensing openings 56, and an opening 58 centrally located with respect to the stub neck 38.
Considering the liquid valve diaphragm 22, a portion 60 of that ` ` 1~30763 .aphragm may seat against the edges62 of each of the openings 56. In that sense, the portion 60 of the diaphra m ~unctions as a valve seal which seals a~ainst the valve seat 62; i.e., sealing portion 60 and valve seat 62 function as a liquid valve.
However, it is also to be noted that the central portion 64 of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 has an opening 66 therein, and that it seals over a stub 68 formed on the underside of the base 32, thereby forming the principal liquid valve.
The air valve diaphragm 24 has a central opening 70 therein, which fits over a central button portion 72 of the air valve member 52. At least one openin~ 74 is formed in the air valve member 52. A chamber 75 is formed at the upper side of the air valve diaphragm 24, beneath the base of the vessel: as discussed in greater detail hereafter.
Referring, for the moment, to Figure 3, the liquid valve diaphragm 22 is shown in some greater detail, but in upside down position compared to that shown in Figure 1. The central portion 64 is shown, as we]l as the tip 26. To assure ease of removal of the tip 26 (if it is moulded in place) a ~roove 76 may be moulded o in the su?face of the central neck portion 64 at the point where the tip 26 will be -etnovt-~cl. I`l-e stalin~ po-tion h~ is on the underslde of the diapllragnl in the area gtnel-all! surrounding the central portion 64. The l~recise an~ulclr orit-~n~-ation of the liguid ~ralve diaphra~ln 22 in ~lace ovel- ~he stub 6~ antl the L-shaped collar 48 is iminatel~ial. To ease the flexibility of the liquid valve diaphra~gm particularly as d;scussed hereafter, it may have a ridge 78 formed therein, so that it may have a slight bello~s-like ac,ion ~hen operating.
Likewise, the air valve diaphragm 24 may have an accordion or _ g _ 11307~3 bellows-like ridge 80 formed in it. Also, it is evident that, even though the air valve diaphragm is formed having a tubular-like collar 82, the bottom end of which is secure against the upper edge of the periphery of air valve member 52, the bottom of the diaphragm 24 may be substantially planar in its peripheral area, with a collar or sleeve upstanding from the air valve member 52.
With reference to the air valve member as shown in Figure 5, the shape of the button portion 72 thereof is substantially equivalent to the shape of the underside of the air valve diaphragm 24 in its central region.
Obviously, the underside of the air valve diaphragm 24 in the central portion thereof forms a sealing portion, which seals against a valve seat portion being the upper surface of the portion 72 of the air valve member 52.
So as to assist in the dispensing of all of the liquid 86 within the vessel 16, the upper face of the base 32 of the dispenser may be sloped, in thé regions thereof which are remote from the liquid openings 56.
o Assuming, now, that the vessel 16, or at least a portion of it, is flexible, the operation of the dispenser of the first embodiment according to this invention is explained. Of course it will be understood that the tip 26 of the liquid diaphragm valve 22 has been removed, and that the cap 28 is not in place.
Pressure against the liquid 86 in the vessel 16 is created, by pressing against the deformable portion of the vessel 16, by squeezing the vessel, or otherwise. In any event, the pressure against the liquid is within an air space also contained within the vessel 16, and acts against the liquid 86. That pressure, in ~ 7 ~ 3 turn, acts against the liquid valve diaphragm 22, at least the sealing portions 64 and 60 thereof against stub 68 and edge 62, causing the sealing port;ons to unseat so that the liquid 86 may commence to flow through the liquid openings 56 and 66. For so long as the pressure against the liquid 86 is maintained, liquid will continue to flow through the liquid openings 56, past the central stub 68 and through the central portion 64 of the liquid valve diaphragm 22, exiting therefrom through the opening 66.
When the pressure against the liquid within the vessel 16 is o relieved~ such as by releasing pressure against the deformable portion of the vessel or releasing the squeezing action against it, and the vessel or the deformable portion thereof recovers its original position, a negative pressure with respect to the ambient forms within the vessel, in the air space thereof above the liquid 86. An air tube 90, fitted into the stub neck 38, is in gas communication with the air space within the vessel 16, and also to the air chamber 75 within the collar 50 and above the air valve diaphragm 24. Because of the negative pressure, the air valve diaphragm unseats from the air valve member 52, so that air flows o through the opening 74 in the air valve member 52, and thro~lgh the opening 70 in the air valve diaphragm. That air flow will continue until there is approximately an equivalent pressure of the air space within the vessel 16 to the ambient pressure;
however, there will be a slight negative pressure due to elasticity or spring constant of the air valve diaphragm 24, tending to cause it to re-seat against the air valve member 52.
Because there is a slight negative pressure within the vessel 16, there is a tendency of the liquid to withdraw into the vessel, so that a dripless sealing of the vessel 16 by the liquid 11~0763 diaphragm is assured.
It is now evident that a dispensing operation may continue for substantially as long as the positive pressure differential within the vessel is maintained. Thus, another manner by which the dispensing operation may be initiated and maintained is suggested; and particularly the means by which hygienic dispensing of a liquid contained within the vessel 16 becomes evident.
If a source of compressed air is connected to the vessel in such a way that it has gas communication to the air valve member 52 and the air valve diaphragm 24, then at any time that the underside of the air valve diaphragm 24 is pressurized with respect to the pressure within the vessel 16, the air valve diaphragm 24 will open, pressurizing the interior of the vessel 16, and causing a dispensing action through the liquid passages 56 and 66, and past the liquid valve diaphragm 22. Once again, therefore, the dispensing operation continues for as long as a positive pressure differential within the vessel 16 is maintained.
When the pressure is relieved, the dispensing operation may continue for a short interval, and then will stop because of the equalization of pressures (minus the closing pressure equivalent of the liquid valve diaphragm 22) from within the vessel 16 to the ambient.
The source of compressed air may be such as a foot pump, or a valve in an air line connected to a central pressurized air source of the sort which may be found in hospitals or industrial installations. For convenience, an air hose may be connected over the threads or stub ring 54 on the outside of the collar 50. By this means, an easy connection of an air hose to the dispenser is permitted, without undoing any parts of the dispenser, so that the 113~7~3 contents within the vessel are in no way exposed or contacted to any outside agent when the air hose is being connected to the dispenser.
When it is desired that the dispensing operation be aseptic,for such purposes as fluids intended for intravenous injection, or surgical scrubbing liquids, a membrane may be placed between the pressurizing air within the vessel 16 and the liquid 86. This is most easily accomplished by containing the liquid 86 within a collapsible plastic bag; although the liquid may be l~ contained within the vessel 16 and the air injected into an inflatable bladder or bag in the interior of the vessel 16.
A slight, spring tension may be imposed within each of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 and the air valve diaphragm 24, by proper dimensioning of the stub 68 and button 72 which act against each diaphragm, respectively, in their central regions.
Thus, the liquid valve diaphragm 22 may be slightly tensioned downwardly by proportioning the stub 68 to be very slightly long when compared to the relative portions of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 before it is assembled to the dispenser; likewise, L the button 72 may be slightly high when compared to the relative portions of the air valve diaphragm 24 before it is assembled to the dispenser. In this way, positive sealing and seating of the valve is assured; and in respect of the liquid valve diaphragm, a "glove-like" seal of the neck 64 over the stub 68 is effected, thereby contributing to the assurance of a dripless seal.
Having regard, once again, to a sterile dispenser, the assembly of a collapsible thin-walled bag containing the liquid into the dispenser may be carried out in sterile conditions, and may be such that the seal does not break until the assembly onto ~13(~7~3 the dispenser of a specially adapted valve or puncturing device, which may already be secured to intravenous feed lines, thereby assuring the continued sterility of the system. In such instances, of course, the pressurizing air within the vessel 16, whether it may be present by virtue of simple venting of the vessel or by virtue of gas communication of the interior of the vessel to a source of pressurized air, never touches or contacts the liquid.
Referring now to the second embodiment of the present l~ invention, illustrated in Figure 2, it will be noted that the principles referred to above with respect to the dispensing operation and the actions of the liquid valve diaphragm and the air valve diaphragm, are identical. In the dispenser 12, which again is threadably secured to the vessel 16, with a collar 34 having an opening 36, all as before, the liquid valve diaphragm 222 and the air valve diaphragm 224 are in superimposed relationship one to the other, as opposed to the side-by-side relationship of the liquid valve diaphragm 22 and the air valve diaphragm 24 of the embodiment of Figure 1. Each diaphragm has a LO centrally disposed sealing portion 192 or 292, and a perimeter sealing portion 94. The diaphragms, or either of them, may have one or more concentric ridges or corrugations 96.
Also, as shown in Figure 2, the central sealing portion 192 of the liquid valve diaphragm 222 seals against the valve seat portions 98 of the base 100 of the dispenser 12, and the valve sealing portion 192 protrudes into and seals a liquid passage 102 through the base 100. It will be noted that the base 100 is assembled over the base portion 104, with which the threaded collar portion 106 is integrally moulded.
_ ly_ An air passage 108 is formed in the base 104, and is sealed by the central sealing portion 292 of the air valve diaphragm 224.
A spigot or nozzle 110 is also moulded integrally with the base 104, and-has a passage 112 leading to it from the chamber 114 which is on the upper side of the liquid valve diaphragm 222 beneath the base 100. A chamber 116 is formed on the lower side of the air valve diaphragm 224 above the base 104, and communicates through an opening 118 to a chamber 120 and thence through an opening 122 in base 100 to an air tube 124 which is secured in a stub collar 126.
The bottom end of the nozzle 110, at 128, may initially be moulded in such a manner as to be closed, so that the tip 130 (shown in dashed lines) may be snapped or cut off prior to the initial dispensing operation. Likewise, & cap may be placed over the nozzle 110, but is not normally required in view of the substantially leak-proof sealing of the liquid passage 102 by the sealing portion 192 of the liquid valve diaphragm 222 against the valve seat 98.
~o The operation of the embodiment of Figure 2 is the same as spoken of above. In other words, if the vessel 16 or a portion of it is deformed or squeezed -- or, alternatively, if the air passage 108 is connected to a source of pressurized air -- a positive pressure differential within the vessel 16 occurs, causing pressure against the liquid 86, which in turn causes an upsetting or unsealing of the sealing portion 192 of liquid valve diaphragm 222 so that liquid 86 may flow through the liquid opening 102, through the chamber 114, past the opening 112 and L q through the nozzle 110 to the exterior. When the force causing _, _ 11307~3 the positive pressure diffe-ential within the vessel 16 is released, a negative pressure differential will occur, and the sealing portion 292 of the air valve diaphragm 224 unseats so that air will flow through the passage 108 and ultimately through the air tube 124 into the interior of the vessel 16. The closing forces of each of the liquid valve diaphragm 222 and the air valve diaphragm 224 are such that a positive closing or sealing force is assured, and are such that a slight negative pressure differential within the vessel 16 will occur.
o Referring now to Figures 6 and 7. a third embodiment of dispenser according to the present invention is taught. In this embodiment, it is particularly contemplated that the dispenser will operate with fluids of low viscosity, and moreover that steri]e conditions are not imperative. This third embodiment of dispenser according to this invention is, therefore, most appropriate for such purposes as surgical scrubbing solutions, hairdressing formulations, and other low viscosity liquids.
The dispenser 14 has a collar portion 132, threaded at 18 as before for engagement with the neck of a vessel. A liquid valve 1 diaphragm 322 is placed over the bottom flanges 134 of the dispenser, and may have a downwardly directed collar portion 136 integrally formed therewith. The collar or flange serves, of course, to support the vessel in its inverted, non-inverting, position if it is desired to stand it on a counter or shelf. An air valve diaphragm 324 is fitted into a ring portion 138 beneath a stub ring 140, and may have an upturned flange 142 at its periphery. An opening 144 is formed through the lower valve diaphragm 322, and a plurality of openings 146 are formed in the ~9 upper valve diaphragm 324.
In the embodiment of dispenser 14 shown in Figures 6 and 7, a chamber 143 lies in the space between the valve diaphragms 322 and 324, and may have several spokes 150 formed integrally therein for purposes of ridigity. An inner column wall 152 defines a vent tube 154 which is in gas communication with the opening 144 through the lower valve diaphragm 322. The chamber 148 is bounded, at its outer periphery, by wall 156.
To initiate a dispensing operation of the dispenser 14 of Figures 6 and 7, the vessel 16 is deformed or squeezed, thereby o creating pressure against the liquid 86, as before. It will be understood that chamber 148 is filled with liquid, and is in liquid communication to the interior of vessel 16 through the openings 146 in valve diaphraa~m 324. The lower end 158 of the tube 152 seats against a central portion 160 of the valve di.aphragm 322, in such a manner that seat 158 and sealin~ portion 160 are normally sealed, but may be upset when the l.iquid ~6 withi.n the vessel 16 and the chamber 148 is pressurized. At that time, the liqui.d flows downwardly through the opening 144, from whence it is di.spensed. When the pressure against the liqui.ci 86 is relieved, the valve diaphragm 322 -- whi.ch, in th;s case, is acting in the same manner as the l.;qu;.d valve dia~hragms referred to above -- re-seats, therebv stopping further ]iquid flow from the dispenser. At that time, the negative clifferential from the interior of the vessel 16 to the ambient is established, and air pressure will upset the central sealing portion 162 of the upper valve membrane 324 from the seat 164 at the upper end of the tube 152, so that air will flow upwardly through the tube 152 and along the underside of the valve diaphragm 324, through the openings ~9 146, and bubble upwardly through the liquid ~6 to the air space 1~307~3 within the vessel 16. Obviously, this embodiment is more readily adapted for use with low viscosity liquids, as discussed above.
Any small amounts of liquid which may be in the vicinity of the opening 144 in valve diaphragm 322 would be aspirated into the tube 152, providing once again a dripless and non- clogging dispensing action.
A fourth embodiment is shown in Figure 8. The dispenser 15 shown in that figure is intended to be threadably engaged to the threaded neck portion 166 of the vessel 16, at threaded collar lo 168. A flange 170 depends from the collar 168, and serves both to protect the valve diaphragms of the dispenser and to provide a stand on which the vessel may be supported. The liquid valve diaphragm 422 is secured over a circular and peripheral lip 172 of a plate 174 which is below the base portion 176 of the dispenser, and may be press fitted or otherwise secured. In any event, several passages 178 -- usually three in number -- are formed in the base portion 176 so as to provide liquid comunication from within the vesel 16 to the chamber 180 formed above the liquid diaphragm 422. The liquid diaphragm 422 seats against a stub 182, L at 184; and unseats so as to provide liquid flow downward through the dispensing opening 186 when pressure acts against the liquid within the vessel 16. Likewise, when pressure is relieved against the liquid, so as to cause the air valve diaphragm 424 to unseat against its seat 188 in the region 190, air flows through the chamber 192 to the air tube 194 or to an expandable air bag if one is secured within the vessel 16. Clearly, the operation of the embodiment of Fig~-re 8 is similar to the previous three embodiments discussed in detail above.
Thus, a review of the four embodiments of dispenser according I ~_ 1~30763 to this invention, which have been particularly described above, will show that the principles of operation remain the same in all instances, and that a dispensin~ operation is initiated substantially at the same time that a positive pressure differential oceurs within the vessel 16 with respect to the ambient, and acts against the liquid within the vessel -- whether directly against the liquid or against a collapsible bag within which the liquid may be contained or against an inflatable bladder within which air may be held. The dispensing operation continues 1 for substantially as long as the positive pressure differential is maintained and the positive pressure acts against the liquid. The bias of the liquid sealing diaphragm is such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion over the valve seat member against which it seats, when there is substantially no pressure differential or a slight negative pressure differential within the vessel. The bias of the air valve diaphragm is such that it will re-seat the sealing portion of that diaphragm causing a slight negative pressure differential or no pressure differential within the vessel, with respect to the ambient pressure.
~o In the embodiment of Figure 1, the dispenser h~s the liquid valve diaphragm and the air valve diaphragm in side-by-side relationship; and in the embodiments of Figures 2, 6 and 8, the liquid valve diaphragm and air valve diaphragm are in superimposed relationships. However, in the embodiment of Figure 2 the air valve diaphragm is the lower diaphragm and the liquid valve diaphragm is the upper diaphragm, whereas the liquid valve diaphragm is the lower diaphragm in Figures 6 or 8, with the air valve diaphragm being the upper diaphragm. In the embodiment of Figure 2, the valve diaphragms open by movement of either _ /9 _ 1~30763 diaphragm in a direction towards the other diaphragm; and in the embodiment of Figures 6 or 8, each valve diaphragm opens by movement of the sealing portion thereof in a direction away from the other diaphragm.
In the embodiment of Figure 2, the assembly of t~e diaphragms is achieved at the peripheral sealing portions 94 of each diaphragm, where they are forced into sealing contact with each other by the relationship of the other fitting pieces of the dispenser, part~cularly pieces 100 and 104.
In any of the dispenser embodiments of the present invention, a condition may occur if an unsealed vessel undergoes considerable temperature change, such that there is a possibility of some liquid leaking past the sealing portion of the liquid valve diaphragm, unless certain measures are taken. In any event, such possibilities are temporary, and are overcome when the liquid recovers substantially the same temperature as that of the amblent.
For example, in the event that an unsealed container undergoes a rise in temperature of approximately 50 degrees F., ~ the air within the vessel will expand by approximately 8% of its total volume (5% in the event of a 30-degree rise in temperature).
If, however, a portion of the vessel is arranged by means of a bellows-section or a thin-walled section to allow for expansion of air when the temperature rises, then the temporary increase of air pressure can be accommodated without leakage of liquid. At the time that the liquid and gas within the vessel recovers the temperature of the ambient, equilibrium is re-established. Thus, if there are thin, expandable and collapsibe areas of the vessel L ~ wall, then when a negative pressure occurs within the vessel, the -- aD
!' - . 1130763 walls may collapse slightly. However, when a temperature change occurs, either upwards or downwards, such that the air within the vessel changes volume, that change can be accommodated by adjustment of the thin-walled areas of the vessel wall under the force of the change of volume and pressure within the vessel.
It should be noted, however, that where a thin-walled portion is provided, it must be in an area where a squeezing action aqainst the vessel occurs when a dispensing action is initiated.
~1~0763 The above overcomes the tendency of the thin-walled section otherwise to pop or balloon outwards during a dispensing operation when a positive pressure differential is effected within the vessel with respect to the~ambient. Of course, when temperature has stabilized, especially if the vessel has undergone a sharp temperature rise, whatever ballooning may have occurred in the thin-walled section will be ~liminated when the next dispensing operation is initiated.
In some cases, it may be desirable to have a controlled, slow dispensing action of the liquid contents of a vessel, over a period of time. ~or example, it may be desired to have a dispensing action caused upon change of temperature of the ambient within which the vessel and dispenser is placed, such as in a dishwasher. In that case, dishwashing liquid or spot cleaner may be dispensed into the dishwasher after the hot water used for the washing operation has been injected into the dishwasher and the interior temperature of the dishwasher has increased. Moreover, because of the control dispensing--determined by proper dimensioning and choice of the physical characteristics of the dispenser elements, and particularly the diaphragm members thereof-- extra or additional dispensing operations can be precluded, so that only a single dispensing operation occurs during any one dishwashing cycle. Likewise, clothes washers, and driers, commercial washing apparatus, dry cleaning machines, autoclave, etc. may have liquid dispensers placed therein from which an automatic liquid dispensing upon raising of the temperature within such apparatus, is achieved.
In the circumstances where a vessel having any dispenser according to this invention, and particularly a dispenser such 11307~3 as that illustrated in Figure 1, is connected to a source of external pressure, it is possible that the air valve diaphragm member 24, may be relocated. In that instance, a bellows may be '!
placed downstream of the vessel, in such a manner that a squeezing or pumping action against the bellows causes air within the air tube connected be.ween the vessel and the bellows to compress or be pressurized, and thereby cause a positive pressure differ-ential within the vessel to occur, with respect to the ambient, thus causing a dispensing action. When the pressure creating Ic operation ceases, the relocated air valve diaphragm which functions as a check valve downstream from the bellows, will close, so that a negative pressure occurs in the air communication tube, thereby stopping the dispensing action and, as discussed above, causing any liquid in the dispensing tube to draw back into the vessel.
Further, when a dispensing action is caused by vi.rtue of an external pressurizing force, in the usual cases discussed above, it may be that a negative pressure differential within the vessel with respect to the ambient may not occur. ~owever, '~ a dripless liquid vent or tube may still be achieved simply by means of properly dimensioning and choosing the physical character-istics of the liquid di.aphgram so that it seals with somewhat greater force against its seat.
Sti.ll further, another form of liquid dispenser according to this invention ~lay be conveniently achieved by the permanently downwardly facing and positioned dispenser, by vacuum withdrawal of the liquid contained within the vessel, especially by means of a venturi. This is especially applicable in such circumstances 7 q as dispensers which are required to dispense sanitizing or deodorizing liquids into flush~ng liquids, such as public toilets and urinals.
-- ~ L-
Claims (16)
1. A non-inverting liquid dispenser for use with a liquid-containing vessel, wherein an air space is contained and is adapted so that a positive pressure differential with respect to ambient pressure may be selectively applied against the liquid within said container so that a dispensing operation is initiated substantially at the same time said positive pressure acts against said liquid, and wherein said dispensing operation may continue for substantially as long as said positive pressure differential is maintained; said dispenser being adapted to be fitted to an opening of said vessel which is at the bottom thereof, so that the liquid within said vessel is above said dispenser;
said dispenser being characterized by two valve members, each comprising a flexible diaphragm and having at least one valve sealing portion thereof being adapted to seal against a valve seat member formed in said dispenser;
where the first of said valve diaphragms is biased towards at least one first opening through which liquid within said vessel will flow when said valve sealing portion is unseated by the pressure of the liquid against it when said positive pressure differential within said vessel acts against said liquid, the bias of said first diaphragm being such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion thereof over said first opening when there is substantially no pressure differential or a slight negative pressure differential within said vessel with respect to the ambient pressure, acting against the liquid contained within said vessel;
and the second of said valve diaphragms is biased towards at least one second opening through which air will flow from the ambient towards said air space within said vessel when said valve sealing portion is unseated when a negative pressure differential within said vessel with respect to the ambient pressure occurs, the bias of said second diaphragm being such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion thereof over said second opening when there is a slight negative pressure differential within said vessel with respect to the ambient pressure.
said dispenser being characterized by two valve members, each comprising a flexible diaphragm and having at least one valve sealing portion thereof being adapted to seal against a valve seat member formed in said dispenser;
where the first of said valve diaphragms is biased towards at least one first opening through which liquid within said vessel will flow when said valve sealing portion is unseated by the pressure of the liquid against it when said positive pressure differential within said vessel acts against said liquid, the bias of said first diaphragm being such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion thereof over said first opening when there is substantially no pressure differential or a slight negative pressure differential within said vessel with respect to the ambient pressure, acting against the liquid contained within said vessel;
and the second of said valve diaphragms is biased towards at least one second opening through which air will flow from the ambient towards said air space within said vessel when said valve sealing portion is unseated when a negative pressure differential within said vessel with respect to the ambient pressure occurs, the bias of said second diaphragm being such that it will re-seat the valve sealing portion thereof over said second opening when there is a slight negative pressure differential within said vessel with respect to the ambient pressure.
2. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of claim 1, where said first and second diaphragms are placed in side-to-side relationship, and each said diaphragm is initially tensioned against a stub placed centrally thereof.
3. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of claim 2, where the stub against said second diaphragm is formed in an air valve member secured against said diaphragm.
4. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of Claim 2, where said second diaphragm and said air valve member are secured in a portion of the said dispenser to which an external, gas conduit means, may be connected.
5. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of claim 1, where said first and second diaphragms are placed in superimposed relationship, and each said diaphragm unseats said valve sealing portion by movement thereof in a direction towards the other said diaphragm.
6. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of claim 1, where said first and second diaphragms are placed in superimposed relationship, and each said diaphragm unseats said valve sealing portion by movement thereof in a direction away from the other said diaphragm.
7. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of claim 1, where the valve seat for said second diaphragm is in gas communication with conduit means for conducting air to said air space within said vessel.
8. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of claim 6, where said diaphragms are in contact with the ends of a hollow tube-like member, the outer end of which is in gas communication to the ambient, and the inner end of which provides the valve seat against which the sealing portion of said second diaphragm seals.
9. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of claim 2 or 4, where said second diaphragm and said second opening are arranged to be in selective gas communication with a source of pressurized air, so that said dispensing operation may be initiated by completing the gas communication between said second opening and diaphragm and said source of pressurized air.
10. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of claim 5 or 6, where said second diaphragm and said second opening are arranged to be in selective gas communication with a source of pressurized air, so that said dispensing operation may be initiated by completing the gas communication between said second opening and diaphragm and said source of pressurized air.
11. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of Claim 6, where said diaphragms are seated against opposite ends of a tubular member, the downward end of which is in gas communication to the ambient, and the upper end of which provides a relatively unobstructed passageway to the interior of the vessel.
12. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of Claim 2, 5 or 6 where said second diaphragm is physically located in a chamber which is isolated from the liquid being dispensed.
13. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of Claim 2, 5 or 6, where said second valve diaphragm is arranged to close at such time when said positive pressure differential releases so that said second valve diaphragm closes before said first valve diaphragm thereby creating a negative pressure differential within said vessel, whereby liquid being dispensed at said first opening tends to be drawn into said vessel and away from said first opening when said negative pressure differential is established.
14. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of Claim 2, 5 or 6, wherein at least one flange is formed around said dispenser and extends downwardly beneath said dispenser so as to form a support stand on which said vessel may be placed in an inverted, non-inverting, orientation.
15. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of Claims 2, 5 or 6, where said second diaphragm and said second opening are arranged to be in selective gas communication with a source of pressurized air, so that said dispensing operation is selectively initiated by operation of subsidiary valve means within the means by which said gas communication is effected. 26
16. The non-inverting liquid dispenser of Claims 2, 5 or 6 where at least a portion of said vessel has a thinner wall section than other portions of said vessel so as to permit a change in configuration to accommodate and adjust to changes of volume and pressure differential within said vessel, where said portion is positioned so that an external dispensing force against said portion tends to restore it towards its original, non-stress, position.
Priority Applications (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA362,147A CA1130763A (en) | 1980-10-10 | 1980-10-10 | Non-inverting liquid dispenser |
| FR8118963A FR2491906A1 (en) | 1980-10-10 | 1981-10-08 | LIQUID DISPENSER |
| DE19813139981 DE3139981A1 (en) | 1980-10-10 | 1981-10-08 | Fluid dispenser with upright position of use |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA362,147A CA1130763A (en) | 1980-10-10 | 1980-10-10 | Non-inverting liquid dispenser |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1130763A true CA1130763A (en) | 1982-08-31 |
Family
ID=4118128
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA362,147A Expired CA1130763A (en) | 1980-10-10 | 1980-10-10 | Non-inverting liquid dispenser |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1130763A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3139981A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2491906A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1999066140A1 (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 1999-12-23 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Liquid dispenser |
| WO1999066139A1 (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 1999-12-23 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Dispensing liquids |
| US6178564B1 (en) | 1999-12-14 | 2001-01-30 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Liquid dispensing toilet rim mounted toilet bowl cleaner |
| US6675396B2 (en) | 1999-12-14 | 2004-01-13 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Liquid dispensing toilet bowl cleaner |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4478356A (en) * | 1982-06-24 | 1984-10-23 | Essex Chemical Corporation | Flexible-bag self-closing metering dispensing valve |
| AT523899B1 (en) * | 2020-05-27 | 2023-02-15 | Zawo Tec Gmbh | Dispenser for dispensing a disinfectant |
Family Cites Families (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3321114A (en) * | 1966-03-04 | 1967-05-23 | Rexall Drug Chemical | Pop-up diaphragm closure |
| US4087024A (en) * | 1976-02-27 | 1978-05-02 | Graber-Rogg, Inc. | Fluid dispenser |
-
1980
- 1980-10-10 CA CA362,147A patent/CA1130763A/en not_active Expired
-
1981
- 1981-10-08 FR FR8118963A patent/FR2491906A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1981-10-08 DE DE19813139981 patent/DE3139981A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Cited By (9)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1999066140A1 (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 1999-12-23 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Liquid dispenser |
| WO1999066139A1 (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 1999-12-23 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Dispensing liquids |
| GB2361250A (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 2001-10-17 | Johnson & Son Inc S C | Dispensing liquids |
| GB2361250B (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 2002-10-23 | Johnson & Son Inc S C | Unit for dispensing a liquid from the rim of a lavatory bowl |
| US6505356B1 (en) | 1998-06-15 | 2003-01-14 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Dispensing liquids |
| EP1449970A1 (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 2004-08-25 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Dispensing liquids |
| US6178564B1 (en) | 1999-12-14 | 2001-01-30 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Liquid dispensing toilet rim mounted toilet bowl cleaner |
| US6412120B1 (en) | 1999-12-14 | 2002-07-02 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Liquid dispensing toilet rim mounted toilet bowl cleaner |
| US6675396B2 (en) | 1999-12-14 | 2004-01-13 | S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Liquid dispensing toilet bowl cleaner |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| FR2491906A1 (en) | 1982-04-16 |
| DE3139981A1 (en) | 1982-06-16 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |