Valve assembly for a dispenser

Abstract

The present invention provides a valve assembly (52) for a dispenser. The valve assembly (52) includes a valve body extending about a longitudinal axis and defining an outer surface and an inner passage. The valve body includes a valve body cavity. The valve body cavity can be positioned between the inner passage and the outer surface. The valve assembly (52) includes a valve seal, the valve seal including a first seal surface and a second seal surface. The first seal surface abuts at least a portion of the passage surface. A portion of the valve seal extends from the inner passage around the second passage opening and into at least a portion of the valve body cavity. The valve stem (62) extends through the inner passage and includes an outer stem surface and an inner stem surface. A portion of the second surface of the valve seal operatively engages a portion of the outer stem surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a valve assembly, and in particular to a polymeric valve assembly that may be used in a dispenser. Background Art

[0002] Dispensers typically include a container that can act as a pressure vessel for the propellant and product contained therein. Pressurized dispensing systems, such as systems for dispensing aerosol products, typically include a metal (e.g., steel or aluminum) container for containing the product under pressure before dispensing from the system. Products dispensed by such systems include air fresheners, fabric fresheners, insect repellents, paints, body sprays, hair sprays, shoe or footwear spray products, fresh cream and processed cheese, etc. Recently, the use of polymer bottles as substitutes for metal containers in pressurized dispensing systems has attracted increasing attention because polymer bottles have several potential advantages. For example, polymer bottles may be easier and cheaper to manufacture than metal containers, and polymer bottles can be made into a wider variety of shapes than metal containers. In addition, metal containers may be undesirable due to relatively high costs and relatively poor sustainability.

[0003] The container is typically, but not necessarily, cylindrical. The container may include a closed end bottom for resting on a horizontal surface such as a shelf, countertop, table, etc. The bottom of the container may include a reentrant portion or base. The sidewalls define the shape of the container and extend upward from the bottom to an opening at the top of the container. The opening at the top of the container defines a neck.

[0004] Typically, a valve assembly 8 may be connected to the container to allow for selective dispensing of the product. Figure 1 , the valve assembly 8 may include a metal valve seat 10 at least partially inserted into the neck of the container. The valve seat 10 is crimped against the crimping ring of the container to seal the container and prevent the propellant, product from escaping and pressurization loss. The valve seat 10 may define a central opening through which the valve stem may extend. Positioned between a portion of the valve stem 14 and the valve seat 10 may be a gasket 16. The gasket 16 may be made of an elastomer, and is conventionally made of a cross-linked elastomer, such as cross-linked vulcanized rubber. The gasket 16 may be used to seal the interface between the valve seat 10 and the valve stem 14. The valve stem 18 may extend through the central opening in the valve seat 10 and engage a portion of the gasket 16. The portion of the valve stem that extends from the central opening of the valve seat toward the bottom of the external container may engage the housing 12 and the spring 20. The portion of the stem 18 may push the spring 20 toward the bottom of the container to allow the product to pass from the container and enter the interior of the stem and out through the actuator 18. When the actuator 18 is released, the spring can push the actuator in a direction away from the bottom of the container, which prevents the material from being released from the interior of the container to the surrounding environment. The spring 20 is usually made of metal. The spring 20 is supported by the housing 12.

[0005] In order to selectively dispense the product from the aerosol dispenser, the valve assembly includes many different components. These components are made of many different materials, including metal and polymer (which may be plastic) components. However, in order to produce an aerosol dispenser that is both recyclable and economical, it is desirable that all components are made of recyclable materials, such as being received into a single recycling stream, or the number of component parts made of materials other than polymer materials is minimized. Summary of the invention

[0006] In some embodiments, a valve for a dispenser may include a valve body. The valve body includes an outer surface and an inner channel extending around a longitudinal axis. The inner channel includes a first channel opening, a second channel opening, and a channel surface extending from the first channel opening to the second channel opening. The valve body may also include a first valve body surface and a second valve body surface opposite to the first valve body surface. The valve body may also include a valve body cavity extending around the longitudinal axis. The valve body cavity may be positioned between the inner channel and the outer surface. The valve includes a valve seal. The valve seal includes a first seal surface and a second seal surface opposite to the first seal surface. The first seal surface abuts at least a portion of the channel surface. A portion of the valve seal extends from the inner channel around the second channel opening and enters at least a portion of the valve body cavity. The valve also includes a valve stem extending through the inner channel. The valve stem includes an outer stem surface and an inner stem surface opposite to the outer stem surface. A portion of the second surface of the valve seal operatively engages a portion of the outer stem surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Several drawings are provided to help the reader understand the present invention. The drawings are intended to be viewed in conjunction with the present specification and are not intended to limit the terms beyond the present specification. Reference numerals are used to identify different features of the drawings. The same reference numerals are used throughout the specification and drawings to indicate the same features, regardless of the variant of the invention being depicted.

[0008] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a prior art industry standard valve assembly including a metal valve seat.

[0009] Figure 2A is a side view of the aerosol dispenser.

[0010] Figure 2B is a side view of the aerosol dispenser.

[0011] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol dispenser including a bag.

[0012] Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol dispenser including a dip tube.

[0013] Figure 3Cis a cross-sectional view of an aerosol dispenser including a bag and a dip tube.

[0014] Figure 3D is a cross-sectional view of a dip tube connected to a valve assembly and a bag wrapped around the dip tube.

[0015] Figure 3E is a perspective view of the dip tube connected to the valve assembly and extension bag.

[0016] Figure 4A is a partial dissected view of the valve assembly, product delivery device, and container.

[0017] Figure 4B is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly, product delivery device and container.

[0018] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of the valve assembly.

[0019] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of the valve assembly.

[0020] Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of the valve assembly.

[0021] Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view of the valve assembly.

[0022] Fig. 6A is a cutaway perspective view of the valve assembly.

[0023] Figure 6B is a side exploded cross-sectional view of the valve assembly.

[0024] Fig. 7A is a cutaway perspective view of the valve assembly.

[0025] Figure 7B is a side exploded cross-sectional view of the valve assembly.

[0026] Fig. 8A is a top view of a valve stem including a retaining member having a hole.

[0027] Figure 8B is a top view of a valve stem including a retaining member having a slot.

[0028] Figure 8C is a top view of a valve stem including a retaining member having a slot.

[0029] Fig. 9A is a side view of a valve stem including a retaining member having a recess.

[0030] Fig. 9B is a side view of a valve stem including a retaining member having a recess.

[0031] Fig. 10Ais a side view of a valve stem including a retaining member having a recess.

[0032] Fig. 10B is a side view of a valve stem including a retaining member having a recess.

[0033] Fig.11 is a side cross-sectional view of the valve assembly.

[0034] Fig.12 is a side cross-sectional view of the valve assembly.

[0035] Fig.13A is a top view of the elastic member.

[0036] Fig. 13B is a top view of the elastic member.

[0037] Fig. 13C is a top view of the elastic member.

[0038] Fig.14A is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0039] Fig. 14B is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0040] Fig. 14C is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0041] Fig.14D is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0042] Fig.14E is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0043] Fig.14F is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0044] Figure 14G is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0045] Fig.14H is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0046] Fig.14I is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0047] Fig.14J is a side sectional view of the elastic member.

[0048] Fig.15 is a graph of elastic member force versus compression distance for an elastic member.

[0049] Fig.16A is a cross-sectional side view of a valve assembly including a force concentrator member and an engagement member including one or more force concentrators.

[0050] Fig. 16Bis a cross-sectional perspective view of a force concentrator member including one or more force concentrators.

[0051] Fig. 16C is a perspective view of a valve body including one or more force concentrators and a valve seal.

[0052] Fig.17A is a cross-sectional view of a valve assembly including a dip tube adapter and a retaining member, each including one or more force concentrators.

[0053] Fig. 17B yes Fig.17A Exploded view of the valve assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] The present disclosure relates to valve assemblies, and more specifically, to a valve assembly for a dispenser. The present disclosure describes a valve assembly for an aerosol dispenser. However, the valve assembly can be used in a non-pressurized dispenser. The aerosol dispenser can include a container for accommodating a product and a propellant and a valve assembly for dispensing the product or the product and the propellant from the container. Other components can be included in the aerosol dispenser, such as a nozzle for controlling the spray characteristics of the product when it is discharged from the aerosol dispenser and an actuator for selectively dispensing the product from the aerosol dispenser. The product can include, but is not limited to: shaving cream, shaving foam, body spray, bath agent, fragrance, hair cleanser, hair conditioning product, hair styling product, antiperspirant, deodorant, personal and household cleaning or disinfecting composition, air freshening product, fabric freshening product, hard surface product, astringent, food, paint, medicine and insecticide. The products that can be dispensed using aerosols are relatively more, which makes aerosols a popular choice for manufacturing companies. The relative popularity of aerosol dispensers has led companies to consider cost-cutting measures regarding aerosol dispensers, and at least in part, the materials of the aerosol dispensers to minimize the impact on the environment.

[0055] For example, an aerosol dispenser made of a polymer component can contribute to the recyclability of the dispenser and help reduce costs, such as reducing manufacturing costs by reducing the weight of each dispenser, eliminating expensive metal parts and reducing transportation costs. The use of different materials also makes the size and shape of the dispenser more flexible. The present disclosure relates to a valve including a valve assembly that can be received into a single recycle stream, such as a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) recycle stream, and safely vented at relatively excessive temperatures and / or pressures.

[0056] refer to Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 3A and Figure 3B, the aerosol dispenser 30 may include a container 32, a valve assembly 52 (also referred to herein as a valve), a product delivery device 56, an actuator 46, and a nozzle 60. The container 32 may include a base 48 connected thereto and a mark 50 disposed on, for example, a side wall 36 of the container 32. The valve assembly 52 may be connected to a portion of the container 32. The so-called connection includes direct or indirect connection. The connection includes removable connection and fixed connection. The connection includes mechanical attachment, such as by screws, bolts, interference fit, friction fit, welding and integral molding, and chemical attachment, such as by adhesive or inherent adhesive properties of the attached material. The valve assembly 52 may be connected to the container so that a portion of the valve assembly 52 is disposed in the container. The product delivery device 56 may be connected to at least one of a portion of the container 32 and a portion of the valve assembly 52, and the product delivery device may be in fluid communication with the actuator 46 and the nozzle 60.

[0057] The base 48 can be connected to the bottom portion of the container 32 opposite the valve assembly 52, and can be used, for example, to help position the dispenser on a flat surface and to reinforce the bottom 34 of the aerosol dispenser. The container 32 can be configured to hold the product and / or propellant. The product delivery device can be at least partially disposed within the container, and the valve can be connected to the container 32 and can be in operational communication with the product delivery device. The product and / or propellant can be stored in the container 32. When dispensing, the product and / or propellant can travel from and / or through the product delivery device 56 and through the valve assembly 52.

[0058] The valve assembly 52 can be in fluid communication with the nozzle 60. The nozzle 60 guides the product to leave the aerosol dispenser and enter the environment or arrive on the target surface. The nozzle can be constructed in various ways, depending on the required distribution and spray characteristics. The actuator 46 can be engaged by the user, and is configured to start and terminate the distribution of the product and / or propellant. In other words, the actuator provides the selective distribution of the product and / or propellant. The actuator 46 can be depressible, can be operated as a trigger, a button, etc., so that the product is released from the aerosol dispenser 30. The actuator 46 can include a connector, such as a convex or concave connector, a snap-fit ​​connector, etc., to fix the actuator to the container. It should be understood that in order to distribute the product, the aerosol dispenser does not need to include an actuator and a nozzle. The product and / or the propellant can be distributed from the rod.

[0059] The container 32 may be used to hold the product and / or the propellant. The container 32 may be any shape that allows the product and / or the propellant to be held within the interior of the container. For example, the container may be peanut-shaped, oval-shaped, or rectangular-shaped. It should be appreciated that the container 32 may be molded, which allows any number of shapes to be used. The container 32 may be longitudinally elongated, such that the container has an aspect ratio of a longitudinal dimension to a transverse dimension (such as a diameter). The aspect ratio may be greater than 1, equal to 1, such as in a sphere or a relatively short cylinder, or the aspect ratio may be less than 1. The container 32 may be cylindrical.

[0060] The container 32 may include a closed bottom 34, one or more sidewalls 36, and a neck 40. The one or more sidewalls 36 may extend between the closed bottom 34 and the neck 40. The sidewalls 36 generally define the shape of the container 32. A shoulder 42 may be included between the neck 40 and the one or more sidewalls 36. The neck 40 of the container 32 may define an opening 38. The opening 38 may be opposite the bottom 34 of the container 32. The neck 40 and / or shoulder 42 may have a consistent or varying thickness to achieve a desired strength in these areas of the container 32.

[0061] The bottom 34 of the container 32 can be configured to rest on a horizontal surface such as a shelf, a countertop, a table, etc. The bottom 34 of the container 32 can include a coved portion or base 48. The base 48 can be connected to the bottom 34 of the container 32, and can help to strengthen the bottom 34 and / or can allow the container to rest on a horizontal surface. The container 32 may not include a base, and can be configured to be located on at least a portion of the bottom 34. Suitable shapes of the bottom 34 include petal-shaped, champagne-shaped, hemispherical or other generally convex or concave shapes. Each of these shapes of the bottom 34 can be used with or without the base 48. The container 32 can have a generally flat base with an optional notch (punt).

[0062] The container 32 may be polymeric. The container 32 may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene furandicarboxylate (PEF), polyester, nylon, polyolefin, EVOH, or a mixture thereof. The container may be monolayer or multilayer. The container 32 may be injection molded or blow molded, such as in an injection stretch blow molding process or an extrusion blow molding process.

[0063] The container 32 may be axisymmetric as shown, or may be eccentric. The cross section may be square, oval, irregular, etc. In addition, the cross section may be substantially constant as shown, or may be variable. For variable cross section, the container may be, for example, cylindrical, hourglass-shaped, or monotonically tapered.

[0064] The height of the container 32 in the axial direction may range from about 6 cm to about 60 cm, or from about 10 cm to about 40 cm. If a circular cross-section is selected, the container 32 may have a cross-sectional perimeter or diameter of about 3 cm to about 60 cm, or from about 4 cm to about 10 cm. The volume of the container may range from about 40 cubic centimeters to about 1000 cubic centimeters, excluding any components therein (such as the product delivery device 56).

[0065] The container 32 may be pressurized with a propellant to an internal surface pressure of about 100 kPa to about 1500 kPa, or about 110 kPa to about 1300 kPa, or about 115 kPa to about 490 kPa, or about 270 kPa to about 420 kPa at 21° C. The aerosol dispenser 30 may have an initial propellant pressure of about 1500 kPa and a final propellant pressure of about 120 kPa, an initial propellant pressure of about 900 kPa and a final propellant pressure of about 300 kPa, or an initial propellant pressure of about 500 kPa and a final propellant pressure of about 0 kPa, including any values ​​between the ranges.

[0066] Propellants may include hydrocarbons, compressed gases (such as nitrogen and air), hydrofluorinated olefins (HFOs) (such as trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoroprop-1-ene), and mixtures thereof. Propellants listed in US Federal Register 49CFR 1.73.115, Class 2, Section 2.2 may be acceptable. The propellant may be condensable. When the product is exhausted during use, the condensable propellant can provide the benefit of a flatter decompression curve at the vapor pressure when condensed. The condensable propellant can provide the following benefits: a larger volume of gas can be placed in the container at a given pressure. Generally speaking, the highest pressure occurs after the aerosol dispenser is filled with the product but before the user first dispenses the product.

[0067] The product delivery device 56 may be used to contain and / or provide for delivery of the product and / or propellant from the aerosol dispenser 30 when desired. Suitable product delivery devices 56 include pistons, bags 24, or dip tubes 26, such as Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown. Product delivery device 56 may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene furandicarboxylate (PEF), polyester, nylon, polyolefin, EVOH or a mixture thereof. The container may be single-layer or multi-layer. Bag 24 may be disposed within container 32 and configured to hold a product therein, such as Figure 3AAs shown. The propellant may be disposed within the container 32 and between the container and the bag 24. A portion of the bag 24 may be connected to at least one of the container 32 and a portion of the valve assembly 52, such as the valve body 54. The bag 24 may be positioned between the container 32 and the valve body 54. The bag 24 may be inserted into the container 32 and then connected to the container. The bag 24 may be connected to the valve body 54, and the valve body 54 connected to the bag 24 may then be inserted into the container 32.

[0068] like Figure 3B As shown, the dispenser may include a dip tube adapter 64 and a dip tube 26. The dip tube adapter 64 may be disposed in the container 32. The dip tube adapter 64 may engage a portion of the neck 40. The dip tube 26 may be connected to the dip tube adapter 64 and extend from the dip tube adapter 64 toward the bottom 34 of the container 32. It should be understood that the dip tube 26 may be directly attached to a portion of the valve assembly (such as the valve body 54). The dip tube 26 and / or the dip tube adapter 64 may be attached to the valve body 54 before being disposed in the container. The dip tube 26 and / or the dip tube adapter 64 may be disposed in the container and then connected to a portion of the container and / or the valve body 54.

[0069] The product delivery device 56 may include a metering device for dispensing a predetermined quantitative product. The product delivery device 56 may include an inverted valve, such as a valve including a ball therein, to change the path of product flow. The product delivery device 56 may include a dip tube disposed in the bag. The product delivery device 56 may be polymeric.

[0070] refer to FIG. 3C to FIG. 3E , the product delivery device 56 may include a dip tube 26 and a bag 24. The bag 24 may be attached to a portion of the dip tube 26, and the dip tube may be disposed within the bag 24. The dip tube 26 may include one or more orifices through which the product may flow. A portion of the dip tube 26 may be connected to a portion of the valve assembly 54. A portion of the dip tube 26 may be connected to a portion of the valve body 54. The dip tube 26 may be connected to a portion of the valve body 54 by a friction fit, a snap fit, a chemical attachment (such as by an adhesive), or a mechanical attachment (such as by a screw or nail). Before the valve assembly 52, the dip tube 26, and the bag 24 are connected to the container 32, the bag 24 may be wrapped around the dip tube 26, such as Figure 3D As shown, or folded in some other manner, so that the bag 24 will not be disturbed when the dip tube 26 and bag 24 are inserted into the container 32. Once the bag 24 and dip tube 26 are disposed within the container 32, the bag 24 may be expanded within the container.

[0071] The container 32 and / or product delivery device 56 may be transparent or substantially transparent. This arrangement provides the benefit that the consumer knows when the product is nearly depleted and allows for improved communication of product attributes such as color, viscosity, etc. In addition, indicia disposed on the container (such as a label or other decoration of the container) may be more visible if the background to which such decoration is applied is light-transmissive. The label may be shrink-wrapped, printed, etc., as is known in the art.

[0072] The container 32 may include a neck 40. The neck 40 may define an opening 38 and be configured to receive a valve assembly 52. ​​The valve assembly 52 may be disposed on or at least partially inserted into the opening 38 of the neck 40 of the container 32, such as Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C As shown. The valve assembly 52 may include a valve body 54, a valve stem 62, and a resilient member 58. At least a portion of the valve assembly 52 may be associated with the movement of the rest of the aerosol dispenser to open and close the aerosol dispenser for dispensing the product. The valve assembly 52 may be opened due to the movement of the valve stem 62, which may be opened by using the actuator 46 or by manual or other mechanical depression of the valve stem 62. When the valve 52 is opened, for example, by the actuator 46, a flow path is formed for dispensing the product to the surrounding or target surface through the nozzle 60. The user may open the valve assembly 52, for example, by selective actuation of the actuator 46.

[0073] A portion of the valve body 54 may be sealed to the neck of the container 32, such as Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C As shown, to prevent product and / or propellant from escaping. Valve body 54 can be sealed to container 32 using a press fit, an interference fit, a crimp, a solvent weld, a laser weld, a sonic weld, an ultrasonic weld, a spin weld, an adhesive, or any combination thereof, as long as the seal is sufficient to contain the product and / or maintain the pressure result. Valve body 54 can be connected to container 32 so that at least a portion of valve body 54 is disposed within container 32. Valve body 54 can be connected to container 32 so that valve body 54 is connected to the opening of the neck and valve body 54 is disposed on the top of the neck.

[0074] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the valve body 54 can extend about the longitudinal axis 70. The valve body 54 can include an outer surface 72 and define an inner passage 74. The outer surface 72 can include a surface that is located farthest from the longitudinal axis 70. The outer surface 72 can extend about the longitudinal axis 70. The inner passage 74 can include a first passage opening 76 and a second passage opening 78 and a passage surface 80 extending from the first passage opening 76 to the second passage opening 78. The passage surface 80 can substantially surround the longitudinal axis 70.

[0075] The valve stem 62 can extend through the interior passage 74 of the valve body 54. The valve stem 62 provides a product flow path from the interior of the container to the nozzle 60 and operatively connects the actuator 46 to the valve assembly 52. ​​The valve stem 62 can be positioned relative to the valve body 54 in a sealing configuration (also referred to herein as a sealed configuration) such that an upper portion 86 of the valve stem 62 is adjacent to the first passage opening 76 of the valve body 54, a second portion 88 of the valve stem 62 can be substantially surrounded by the passage surface 80, and a third portion 90 of the valve stem 62 can be adjacent to the second passage opening 78 of the valve body 54. The valve stem 62 can be positioned relative to the valve body 54 in a sealing configuration such that an upper portion 86 of the valve stem 62 extends through the first passage opening 76 of the valve body 54, a second portion 88 of the valve stem 62 can be substantially surrounded by the passage surface 80, and a third portion 90 of the valve stem 62 can extend through the second passage opening 78 of the valve body 54. The valve stem 62 can move relative to the valve body 54, for example, between a sealing configuration and / or a dispensing configuration and / or a filling configuration. Thus, the valve stem 62 can be positioned in other configurations as the valve stem 62 moves. The valve stem 62 can include an outer stem surface 92 and an inner stem surface 94 opposite the outer stem surface. The inner stem surface 94 can define a channel 95 through which the product and / or propellant can flow out of or into the container. The valve stem 62 can include a dispensing opening 116 that can be used to introduce the propellant and / or product into the container or to dispense the product and / or propellant from the container.

[0076] The valve assembly 52 may include a valve seal 82 such as Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown. The valve seal can be disposed on at least a portion of the passage surface 80 and can extend around a portion of the passage surface 80. The valve seal can be connected to the passage surface 80 so that the valve seal remains in place when the valve stem 62 moves from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration or the filling configuration. The valve seal can extend from the passage surface 80 toward the second passage opening 78. The valve seal 82 can extend around the second passage opening 78. The valve seal 82 can extend from the passage surface 80 to the first passage opening 76. The valve seal 82 can extend around the second passage opening 78 without extending from the passage surface 80. The valve seal 82 can be any shape so that the seal is formed with a portion of the valve stem 62 and the product and / or propellant is contained within the container.

[0077] The valve assembly 52 may include a resilient member 58. The resilient member 58 may be disposed on a portion of the valve body 54. The resilient member 58 may be positioned adjacent to the first passage opening 76 and substantially surround the longitudinal axis 70. The resilient member 58 may be any compliant member that provides resistance to the force that provides the valve stem 62 to move to, for example, a dispensing configuration or a filling configuration when the valve stem 62 moves in a direction toward the container 32, and returns the valve stem 62 to a sealing configuration when the force is removed or reduced. The resilient member 58 may be made of at least one of a metal and a polymer. The resilient member 58 may be of any shape that allows the resilient member 58 to operatively engage the valve stem and control the movement of the valve stem.

[0078] The valve assembly 52 may include an engagement member 68. The engagement member 68 may be connected to a portion of the valve stem 62 so that the engagement member 68 moves as the valve stem 62 moves. The engagement member 68 may extend from the outer stem surface 92 toward the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54. The engagement member 68 may be axisymmetric or non-axisymmetric. The engagement member 68 includes an engagement surface 69. The engagement surface 69 is configured to operatively engage a portion of the resilient member 58. The resilient member 58 may be positioned between the engagement surface 69 and a portion of the valve body 54. When the valve stem 62 is in a sealing configuration, the engagement surface 69 may operatively engage the resilient member 58 so that the resilient member 58 is placed in a desired amount of compression that biases the valve stem 62 to remain in a position that maintains the seal. When the valve stem 62 is in a dispensing configuration, a user or other mechanical device may overcome the additional compressive force of the resilient member to move the valve stem 62 from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration. When the valve stem 62 moves from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration, the engagement member 68 compresses the resilient member 58. It will also be appreciated that the resilient member 58 may be further compressed to move the valve stem 62 from the dispensing configuration to the filling configuration, as will be discussed in greater detail herein.

[0079] The valve stem 62 may include one or more orifices 108. The orifice 108 may be used to fill the container with a product and / or a propellant and to dispense the product and / or the propellant from the container. The one or more orifices 108 may be of any shape or size, as long as the product and / or the propellant can be filled and dispensed through such orifices at least one. For example, the one or more orifices may be circular, oval, rectangular, square or any other shape. The one or more orifices 108 may be conical. For a valve stem 62 including two or more orifices, each of the orifices may be of the same or different shapes and may be of the same or different sizes. For example, when the dispensing orifice and the filling orifice are both included in the valve stem 62, the filling orifice may have a larger cross-sectional opening area than the dispensing orifice. The orifice 108 may extend from the outer rod surface 92 to the inner rod surface 94. The orifice 108 may be in fluid communication with the channel 95 defined by the inner rod surface 94 so that the product and / or the propellant may flow through the orifice and enter the channel 95. Product and / or propellant may flow from the container through the aperture and into the channel 95. Product and / or propellant may also flow through the channel, through the aperture and into the container.

[0080] One or more orifices 108 can be positioned around the valve stem 62 so that the release of the product and / or propellant is controlled. The orifice 108 can be positioned between the first portion 86 of the valve stem 62 and at least a portion of the valve seal 82. In other words, the one or more orifices 108 can be positioned so that at least a portion of the valve seal 82 is located between the orifice and the third portion 90 of the valve stem 62 to prevent the product and / or propellant from freely flowing from the container and passing through the orifice. The components of the valve seal 82 positioned between the orifice and the third portion prevent the product and / or propellant from flowing to the orifice before the valve stem moves to the dispensing configuration. When the valve stem is in a sealing configuration, the valve seal 82 prevents the product and / or propellant from entering the orifice and contains the product and / or propellant in the container. The second portion of the valve seal 82 can be located between the orifice and the first portion 86 of the valve stem to prevent the product and / or propellant from freely flowing through the internal passage 74 and out of the first passage opening 76 when the product and / or propellant flows through the orifice.

[0081] The valve stem 62 may include a third portion 90 opposite the first portion 86. The third portion 90 of the valve stem 62 may include a retaining member 110. The retaining member 110 may be connected to the third portion 90 of the valve stem 62, or the retaining member 110 may be formed with the remainder of the valve stem 62. The retaining member 110 may be formed of the same material as the remainder of the valve stem 62 or a different material. For example, the retaining member 110 may be at least partially formed of a first material, and the remainder of the valve stem 62 may be formed of one or more other materials different from the first material. The first material may have a lower melting point or glass transition temperature (tg) than the one or more other materials to allow at least the portion of the retaining member containing the first material to melt, soften, deflect, or deform at a given temperature relatively lower than the remainder of the valve stem 62.

[0082] At least a portion of the retaining member 110 may extend outwardly (such as radially outwardly) beyond the outer stem surface 92, and may be configured to engage a portion of the valve body 54 and / or the valve seal 82. The retaining member may be axisymmetric or non-axisymmetric. The retaining member 110 may work in cooperation with the resilient member 58 to position the valve stem 62 in a sealing configuration. The retaining member 110 may be any shape so that a portion of the retaining member 110 may operatively engage at least one of a portion of the valve body 54 and the valve seal 82. The shape of the retaining member 110 may be such that the retaining member 110 maintains the position of the valve stem 62 during safe operating conditions and helps retain the valve stem, and helps to safely move the valve stem during adverse operating conditions (such as relatively elevated temperatures and / or over-pressurization of the aerosol dispenser) to vent the container.

[0083] The product delivery device 56 can be positioned between the valve assembly 52 and the container 32. The product delivery device 56 and the valve assembly 52 can be at least partially disposed in the neck of the container 32. For example, Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the dip tube and the dip tube adapter 64 can be disposed in the container so that the dip tube 26 extends into the container and the dip tube adapter 64 is connected to the neck 40 of the container 32. The valve assembly 52 can be disposed on a portion of the dip tube adapter and a portion of the neck 40. The dip tube adapter and the valve assembly are in fluid communication. Similarly, the bag 24 can be disposed in the container so that a portion of the bag 24 is connected to the neck 40 of the container 32 and a portion of the bag 24 extends into the container 32. The valve assembly 52 can be disposed on a portion of the bag 24 and a portion of the neck 40. The bag and the valve assembly are in fluid communication.

[0084] refer to FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D, the valve assembly 52 may include a valve body 54. The valve body 54 includes an outer surface 72 and an inner passage 74 extending about the longitudinal axis 70. As previously described, the inner passage 74 includes a first passage opening 76, a second passage opening 78, and a passage surface 80 extending from the first passage opening 76 to the second passage opening 78. The valve body 54 may include a first valve body surface 96 and a second valve body surface 98 opposite the first valve body surface 96. The valve body surface may extend from the outer surface 72 of the valve body to the inner passage 74. The valve body surface may have any geometric shape so that the valve body can be connected to the container and an adequate seal can be maintained. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D As shown, the surface may include a stepped portion, also referred to herein as a transition portion, such that the first surface is not continuously flat from the outer surface to the inner passageway.

[0085] refer to Figure 5A , the valve body 54 may include a first hoop member 140 and a second hoop member 142. The first hoop member may extend around the longitudinal axis. The first hoop member may include a first hoop outer portion 144 positioned adjacent to the inner neck portion, a first hoop inner portion 146 opposite the first hoop outer portion 144, a first hoop upper surface 148, and a first hoop lower surface 150 opposite the first hoop upper surface. The valve body 54 may include a second hoop member 142, the second hoop member including a second hoop outer portion 152, a second hoop inner portion 154, a second hoop upper surface 156, and a second hoop lower surface 158. The second hoop inner portion 154 extends around the longitudinal axis 70. A portion of the second hoop member 142 defines the internal passage 74.

[0086] First hoop member 140 may be connected to second hoop member 142. A portion of second hoop upper surface 156 may be connected to a portion of first hoop lower surface 150. First hoop member 140 may be connected to second hoop member 142 such that a transition portion 160, also referred to herein as a step portion, is formed between the first hoop member and the second hoop member. Transition portion 160 may be positioned between the first hoop upper surface and the second hoop upper surface.

[0087] The valve body 54 may include a valve body cavity 100, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5B80 and the outer surface 72. The valve body cavity 100 can be positioned adjacent to the inner passage 80 so that a portion of the valve seal 82 can extend from the inner passage 80 and into the valve body cavity 100. The valve body cavity 100 can extend partially or completely around the longitudinal axis 70. The valve body cavity 100 can extend from the second valve body surface 98 toward the first valve body surface 96. The valve body cavity 100 can extend from the inner passage 80 of the valve body 54 toward the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54. The valve body cavity 100 can be any shape so that a portion of the valve seal can be disposed within at least a portion of the valve body cavity 100.

[0088] The second hoop member 142 may include a valve body cavity 100, such as Figure 5A The valve body cavity 100 may extend from a portion of the second hoop lower surface 158 toward the second hoop upper surface 148. It should be appreciated that the valve body cavity 100 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to a portion of the second hoop lower surface 158 or at an angle to the second hoop lower surface 158. The valve body cavity 100 may extend through the second hoop member and into a portion of the first hoop member.

[0089] It should also be appreciated that the first hoop member 140 may include the valve body cavity 100 or a portion thereof.

[0090] The valve body cavity 100 can be configured to receive a portion of the valve seal 82. More specifically, a portion of the valve seal 82 can extend from the internal passage 80 around the second passage opening 78 and into at least a portion of the valve body cavity 100. The valve seal 82 includes a valve seal first end portion 105 and a valve seal second end portion 106. The valve seal first end portion 105 can be disposed within the internal passage 80. The valve seal second end portion 106 can be opposite the seal first end portion 105. At least a portion of the valve seal second end portion 106 can be disposed within the valve body cavity 100. At least a portion of the valve seal second end portion 106 can be substantially surrounded by the valve body cavity 100. The valve body cavity 100 protects the valve seal second end portion 106 from separation from the valve body 54 under expected operating conditions. The valve body cavity 100 prevents the propellant and / or product from contacting the valve seal second end portion 106 and thereby separating the valve seal from the valve body and allowing the product and / or propellant to be inadvertently released from the container.

[0091] As previously described, the valve assembly 52 may include a valve seal 82. The valve seal 82 may be molded into place or attached to at least a portion of the channel surface 80, such as by adhesive-like properties of the material of the valve seal 82, or the valve seal 82 may be manufactured separately and subsequently inserted so that it is connected to at least a portion of the channel surface 80 and / or around the second channel opening 78. A separately manufactured valve seal 82 may be connected to a portion of the valve body 54. The valve seal 82 may be connected to the channel surface 80. The valve seal 82 may be made of any material that provides a seal between the valve seal 82 and the valve stem 62. The valve seal 82 may be made of one or more materials including thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, rubber or polymers, which may be foamed. To increase sustainability, the valve seal 82 may be made of a material so that when the aerosol dispenser is handled for recycling, the valve seal 82 is separated from the channel surface 80.

[0092] The valve seal 82 includes a first seal surface 102 and a second seal surface 104 opposite to the first seal surface 102. The first seal surface 102 abuts a portion of the channel surface 80 and at least one of the second channel opening 78. The first seal surface 102 can be connected to a portion of the channel surface 80 and at least one of the second channel opening 78. At least a portion of the second seal surface can be in a facing relationship with the valve stem 62, and a portion of the second seal surface 104 can operatively engage a portion of the valve stem 62 to form a seal therewith. The valve stem 62 extends through the internal passage 80 and includes an outer stem surface 92 and an inner stem surface 94. A portion of the second seal surface 104 operatively engages a portion of the outer stem surface 94. The valve stem 62 includes one or more orifices 108 extending from the outer stem surface 94 to the inner stem surface 94 and in fluid communication with the channel 95. One or more orifices allow product and / or propellant to be dispensed from or filled into the container. When the valve stem 62 is in a sealing configuration, these orifices 108 need to remain sealed. The valve seal 82 operatively engages the valve stem 62 to form a seal that prevents propellant and / or product from entering the orifice when the valve stem 62 is in the sealing configuration. The valve seal 82 is configured to remain in a stationary position when the valve stem moves from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration and from the dispensing configuration to the filling configuration. Movement of the valve stem relative to the valve seal allows controlled dispensing and / or filling of the product and / or propellant through one or more orifices of the valve stem.

[0093] The valve seal 82 can be formed so that a portion of the valve seal 82 engages the outer surface of the valve stem between the orifice and the interior of the container, which prevents the propellant and / or product from entering the orifice in the sealed configuration. The valve seal 82 can also be formed so that a portion of the valve seal 82 engages the outer surface of the valve stem between the orifice and the first channel opening 76, so that when the valve stem is in the dispensing configuration, the product and / or propellant flows through the orifice, but does not flow through the first channel opening 76 and enter the unintended part of the valve assembly. In addition, it should be understood that the valve seal can be formed, such as by changing the thickness, so that there are one or more gaps between the second seal surface 104 and the outer surface of the valve stem. The gap allows the amount of friction between the valve seal and the valve stem to be controlled in a way. By reducing the contact area between the second surface of the valve seal and the outer surface of the valve stem, friction can also be reduced. It should be understood that reducing the contact area is a way to control friction, but friction can also be controlled by other means, such as material selection and the use of lubricants.

[0094] Various shapes of valve seals can also help to safely discharge product and / or propellant at relatively high temperatures and pressures. For example, during a situation where the dispenser experiences relatively high temperatures such that the propellant and / or product needs to be safely discharged, the valve seal can be separated from the valve stem to allow controlled release of the product and / or propellant. The time and degree of separation of the valve stem and the valve seal can vary based on the shape and material properties of the valve seal. The valve seal can have various thicknesses so that portions of the valve seal do not contact the valve stem, forming a gap, and other portions of the valve seal can have different amounts of contact with the valve stem so that certain portions will be more easily separated from the valve stem.

[0095] like Figure 5A As shown, the valve seal 82 is positioned between the valve body 54 and the valve stem 62. The valve seal 82 includes a first sealing surface 102 adjacent to a portion of the valve body 54 and a second sealing surface 104 in a facing relationship with at least a portion of the valve stem 62. The valve seal 82 extends from the first passage opening 76 around the second passage opening 78 and into the valve body cavity 100. More specifically, the first valve seal end portion 105 is disposed adjacent to the first passage opening 76, and the second valve seal end portion 106 is substantially surrounded by the valve body cavity 100. The second sealing surface 104 of the valve seal 82 operatively engages the outer surface of the valve stem so that when the valve stem is in a sealing configuration, one or more apertures isolate the product and / or propellant. The valve seal 82 can have a constant thickness from the valve seal first end portion 105 to the valve seal second end portion 106, or a varying thickness from the first valve seal end portion 105 to the second valve seal end portion 106.

[0096] like Figure 5BAs shown, the valve seal 82 is positioned between the valve body 54 and the valve stem 62. The first sealing surface 102 abuts a portion of the valve body 54, and the second sealing surface 104 is in a facing relationship with at least a portion of the valve stem 62. The valve seal 82 has a variable thickness. The valve seal 82 extends around the first passage opening 76, so that a portion of the valve seal first end portion 105 extends above the first passage opening 76, and the valve seal second end portion 106 extends around the second passage opening 78, and at least a portion is disposed in the valve body cavity 100. The portion of the valve seal first end portion 105 extending around the first passage opening 76 can help maintain the position of the valve seal 82 to the valve body 54. The portion of the valve seal first end portion 105 extending above the first passage opening 76 can be configured to operatively engage a portion of the resilient member 58.

[0097] like Figure 5C As shown, the valve seal 82 is positioned between the valve body 54 and the valve stem 62. The first seal surface 102 abuts a portion of the valve body 54, and the second seal surface 104 is in a facing relationship with at least a portion of the valve stem 62. The valve seal 82 can have a variable or constant thickness. The valve seal first end portion 105 can be disposed between the first channel opening 76 and the second channel opening 78. There can be a gap between the first channel opening 76 and the valve seal first end portion 105. By extending the valve seal first end portion 105 through only a portion of the first channel surface, the contact friction between the valve seal and the valve stem is reduced. The reduced friction can allow the amount of force required to move the valve stem from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration to be reduced. The valve seal second end portion 106 extends around the second channel opening 78, and at least a portion can be disposed in the valve body cavity 100.

[0098] like Figure 5DAs shown, the valve seal 82 is positioned between the valve body 54 and the valve stem 62. The first sealing surface 102 abuts a portion of the valve body 54, and the second sealing surface 104 is in a facing relationship with at least a portion of the valve stem 62. The valve seal 82 can extend from the first passage opening 76 or from some portion of the internal passage 74, and the valve seal second end portion 106 extends around the second passage opening 78, and at least a portion is disposed in the valve body cavity 100. The valve seal 82 has a variable thickness. The valve seal 82 can have a variable thickness within a portion of the valve seal. For example, the valve seal first end portion 105 can include an upper portion having a first thickness and a lower portion having a second thickness. The first thickness can be greater than or less than the second thickness. Similarly, any portion of the valve seal can have a varying thickness. The thickness variation can result in one or more valve gaps 99 formed between the valve seal 82 and the valve stem 62. As previously described, the thickness variation of the valve seal can allow for greater control of the force required to move the valve stem by reducing the amount of friction between the valve seal and the valve stem. Thickness variations can also save material costs by reducing the amount of material required to form an adequate seal.

[0099] like Figure 5DAs shown, the presence of one or more valve gaps 99 causes the second seal surface 102 to only partially engage with the valve stem 62. The valve seal 82 may include a first engagement portion 126, a second engagement portion 128, and a non-engagement portion 130. The non-engagement portion 130 may be positioned between the first engagement portion 126 and the second engagement portion 128. The first engagement portion 126 may be configured to operatively engage a portion of the outer surface of the valve stem. The first engagement portion 126 may be positioned between the first portion 86 of the valve stem 62 and the one or more orifices 108. The first engagement portion 126 may be positioned between the first passage opening 76 and the one or more orifices 108. The first engagement portion 126 may be configured to form a seal with the outer surface of the valve stem and prevent the propellant and / or product from flowing into an unintended area of ​​the valve assembly 52. ​​The second engagement portion 128 may be positioned adjacent to the third portion 90 of the valve stem 62. The second engagement portion 128 may be positioned between the retaining member 110 and the one or more orifices 108. The second engagement portion 128 may be positioned adjacent to the one or more orifices 108. The second engagement portion 128 can be configured to prevent the product and / or propellant disposed in the container from entering one or more orifices when the valve stem is in a sealing configuration. One or more orifices 108 can be positioned between the first engagement portion 126 and the second engagement portion 128 to control the distribution of the product and / or propellant. The non-engaging portion 130 of the valve seal does not contact the outer surface of the valve stem and / or does not engage the outer surface to form a seal with the valve stem. The valve gap 99 can be formed between the non-engaging portion 130 and the outer surface of the valve stem. It should be understood that the valve seal can be shaped and therefore has various thicknesses to obtain one or more engagement portions and one or more non-engaging portions.

[0100] like Figure 5D As shown, the valve seal 82 may include one or more valve seal gaps 132. The gap may be any of a slit, a slot, or a notch including a depression. The valve gap 132 may extend from the second seal surface 104 and extend in a direction toward the first seal surface 102. The valve seal gap 132 may facilitate the movement of the valve seal 82 to allow safe discharge of the product and / or propellant when the dispenser is subjected to relatively high temperatures. The valve seal gap 132 may allow the valve seal to be separated from the valve stem more easily to allow safe discharge. The valve seal gap 132 may be any shape or size that allows the seal to be maintained under normal use conditions, and allows the seal to be destroyed and safely discharge the product and / or propellant under excessive use conditions such as relatively high temperatures. The valve seal gap may allow the valve stem to move more easily, and therefore reduce the force required to move the valve stem.

[0101] The valve seal 82 may include a seal protrusion 134. The seal protrusion 134 extends from the second seal surface 104 toward the bottom of the container. The seal protrusion 134 may be any shape so that when the retaining member 110 engages the valve seal 82, greater forces are concentrated at the contact area between the seal protrusion 134 and the retaining member 110. It should be understood that a portion of the valve stem 62 may also or alternatively engage the seal protrusion 134. The seal protrusion 134 helps to form a relatively stronger seal between the valve seal 82 and the retaining member 110 and / or the valve stem 62.

[0102] like Fig. 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the valve body 54 may include one or more members extending from at least one of the first valve body surface 96 and the second valve body surface 98. The cavity 54 may include a first support member 162. The first support member 162 may be connected to the first valve body surface 96 and extend away from the first valve body surface 96. The first support member 162 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the internal passage 74. The first support member 162 may be positioned adjacent to the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54. The first support member 162 may be positioned between the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54 and the internal passage 74. The first support member 162 may extend in a direction away from the first valve body surface 96. The first support member 162 may extend so that the outermost portion of the first support member 162 extends above at least a portion of the resilient member 58. The first support member 162 has a first support member height H1 measured from the first valve body surface 96 to the outermost portion of the first support member 162. The first support member height H1 may be less than about 25 mm. The first support member height H1 can be about 0.1 mm to about 25 mm, or about 1 mm to about 20 mm, or about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or about 5 mm to about 10 mm. The first support member 162 can be used to protect at least a portion of the valve stem 62. The first support member height H1 can be such that the first support member 162 extends above or is at the same height as the top of the valve stem. The first support member 162 can provide stability to the valve body 54 when subjected to overpressure and / or relatively high temperatures. An actuator or other distribution component can be connected to a portion of the first support member 162.

[0103] The cavity 54 may include a second support member 164. The second support member 164 may be connected to the first valve body surface 96 and extend away from the first valve body surface 96. The second support member 164 may be positioned between the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54 and the internal passage 74. The second support member 164 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the internal passage 74. The second support member 164 may be positioned between the first support member 162 and the internal passage 74 of the valve body 54. The second support member 164 may extend in a direction away from the first valve body surface 96 so that the outermost portion of the second support member 164 extends over a portion of the elastic member 58. The second support member 164 has a second support member height H2 measured from the first valve body surface 96 to the outermost portion of the second support member 164. The second support member height H2 may be less than about 25 mm. The second support member height H2 may be about 0.1 mm to about 25 mm, or about 1 mm to about 20 mm, or about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or about 5 mm to about 10 mm. The second support member height H2 can be greater than, less than, or equal to the first support member height H1. The second support member 164 can be used to protect at least a portion of the valve stem 62. The second support member height H2 can be such that the second support member 164 extends above or is at the same height as the top of the valve stem. The second support member 164 can provide stability to the valve body 54 when subjected to overpressure and / or relatively high temperatures. An actuator or other distribution component can be connected to a portion of the second support member 164.

[0104] The second support member 164 can be used to help guide the engagement member 68 and / or the resilient member 58 when the valve stem 62 moves between the sealing configuration, the dispensing configuration, and the filling configuration. The second support member 164 can substantially surround the engagement member 68 and / or the resilient member 58 so that the engagement member 68 can be slidably moved and the resilient member 58 can be moved, such as by deflection or compression. There can be a gap between the second support member 164 and the engagement member 68. The engagement member 68 can slidably engage a portion of the support member 164. For example, the engagement member can include a protrusion that slidably engages a ridge within an interior portion of the second support member to prevent the engagement member from rotating.

[0105] The valve body 54 may include one or more ribs. The rib 166 may extend between the first support member 162 and the second support member 164. The rib 166 may be connected to at least one of the first support member 162 and the second support member 164. Fig. 6AAs shown, the ribs can be connected to both a portion of the first support member 162 and a portion of the second support member 164. The ribs can extend radially between the first support member 162 and the second support member 164. The ribs 166 can be connected to the first valve body surface 96. The ribs 166 may not be connected to the first valve body surface 96, and therefore, there may be a gap between the first valve body surface 96 and the ribs 166. One or more ribs 166 can help to manufacture the aerosol dispenser. For example, one or more ribs 166 can be used to clamp the valve body 54 so that the valve body 54 can move and / or be attached to the container. During the manufacture of the aerosol dispenser, one or more ribs 166 can be operatively engaged by a processing device. One or more ribs 166 can allow welding, such as by rotating the valve body 54 to the container. One or more ribs 166 can also provide structural stability for the valve body 54. For example, when the aerosol dispenser is subjected to relatively high temperatures, one or more ribs 166 can help to control the deformation of the valve body 54.

[0106] As previously described, the valve body 54 may include the first hoop member 140. Each of the first support member 162, the second support member 164, and the rib 166 may extend from the first hoop member 140. Each of the first support member 162, the second support member 164, and the rib 166 may extend from the first hoop upper surface 148. The first support member 162 and the second support member 164 may be connected to the first hoop upper surface 148. The rib 166 may be connected to the first hoop upper surface 148, or a gap may be formed between the first hoop upper surface 148 and the rib 166.

[0107] It should be appreciated that the valve body 54 may include a single hoop member.

[0108] like Fig. 6A and Figure 6BAs shown, the valve body 54 may include one or more protrusions extending from at least one of the first valve body surface 96 and the second valve body surface 98. The valve body 54 may include a first attachment protrusion 168. The first attachment protrusion 168 may be connected to the second valve body surface 98 and extend away from the second valve body surface 98. The first attachment protrusion 168 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the internal passage 74. The first attachment protrusion 168 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the longitudinal axis 70. The first attachment protrusion 168 may extend from the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54 toward the internal passage 74. The first attachment protrusion may be positioned between the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54 and the internal passage 74 or the longitudinal axis 70. The first attachment protrusion 168 has a first attachment protrusion height H3 measured from the second valve body surface 98 to the outermost portion of the first attachment protrusion 168. The first attachment projection height H3 can be about 0.1mm to about 10mm, or about 0.5mm to about 8mm, or about 1mm to about 6mm, or about 1mm to about 3mm. The first attachment projection 168 can include a width measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, which can be less than the width of the first hoop member. The width of the first attachment projection 168 can be about 0.5mm to about 6mm, or about 1mm to about 4mm, or about 1mm to about 3mm. The first attachment projection 168 can be configured to connect the valve body to a part of the neck of the container. The first attachment projection 168 can be welded to a part of the neck of the container. It should be understood that the first attachment projection can be connected to the neck such as by pressure fitting, interference fitting, crimping, solvent welding, laser welding, sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, spin welding, adhesive or any combination thereof. The height and width of the first attachment projection 168 can be selected to obtain the desired welding between the valve body and the container. Generally, the larger the surface area, the greater the welding strength. The first attachment protrusion 168 may include one or more grooves or other surface contours so that gas can pass between a portion of the first attachment protrusion 168 and the neck before the valve body is sealed to the container.

[0109] like Fig. 6A and Figure 6BAs shown, the valve body 54 may include a second attachment protrusion 170. The second attachment protrusion 170 may be connected to the second valve body surface 98 and extend away from the second valve body surface 98. The second attachment protrusion 170 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the internal passage 74. The second attachment protrusion 170 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the longitudinal axis 70. The second attachment protrusion 170 may extend from the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54 toward the internal passage 74. The second attachment protrusion 170 may be positioned between the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54 and the internal passage 74 or the longitudinal axis 70. The second attachment protrusion 170 may be positioned between the first attachment protrusion 168 and the internal passage 74 or the longitudinal axis 70 of the valve body 54. The second attachment protrusion 170 has a second attachment protrusion height H4 measured from the second valve body surface 98 to the outermost portion of the second attachment protrusion 170. The second attachment protrusion height H4 can be about 0.1mm to about 10mm, or about 0.5mm to about 8mm, or about 1mm to about 5mm, or about 1mm to about 3mm. The second attachment protrusion height H4 can be greater than, less than or equal to the first attachment protrusion height H3. The height difference between the first attachment protrusion and the second attachment protrusion can allow the valve body to be supported by the second attachment protrusion that engages a part of the container neck, while the gas passes between the container neck and the first attachment protrusion. The second attachment protrusion can form a temporary seal with a part of the neck of the container or a product delivery device to control the gas flow entering the container. The second attachment protrusion width can be about 0.1mm to about 5mm, or about 0.5mm to about 3mm, or about 1mm to about 1.5mm. The second attachment protrusion 170 can be configured to connect the valve assembly to a part of the neck of the container or a part of the product delivery device 56. The second attachment protrusion 170 can be welded to a part of the neck of the container or a part of the product delivery device 56, such as a bag, a dip tube or a dip tube adapter. It should be appreciated that the first attachment protrusion may be connected to the neck, such as by a press fit, an interference fit, crimping, solvent welding, laser welding, sonic welding, ultrasonic welding, spin welding, an adhesive, or any combination thereof.

[0110] The first attachment protrusion 168 and the second attachment protrusion 170 can be spaced apart from each other so that there is a gap between them. The gap can allow the control of material when the first attachment protrusion 168 and the second attachment protrusion 170 are connected to the neck of the container. For example, when the valve body 54 is welded, such as by spin welding, the material of the first attachment protrusion 168 and the second attachment protrusion becomes semi-fluid and can flow and produce overflow. Overflow is excess material outside the area that flows out of the attachment area. Similarly, when the valve body is connected by an adhesive, the adhesive can also overflow, thereby also producing overflow. The gap controls the flow of overflow. The overflow moves into the gap and prevents the overflow from interfering with the valve body 54 and / or the container.

[0111] The valve body 54 may include a valve skirt 172. The valve skirt 172 may be connected to the second valve body surface 98 and extend away from the second valve body surface 98. The valve skirt 172 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the internal passage 74. The valve skirt 172 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the longitudinal axis 70. The valve skirt 172 may be positioned between the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54 and the internal passage 74 or the longitudinal axis 70. The valve skirt 172 may be positioned between the first attachment protrusion 168 and the internal passage 74 or the longitudinal axis 70 of the valve body 54. The valve skirt 172 may be positioned between the second attachment protrusion 170 and the internal passage 74 or the longitudinal axis 70 of the valve body 54. The valve skirt 172 may extend from at least one of the first hoop member 140 and the second hoop member 142. As shown in FIG. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the valve skirt 172 can extend from the second hoop lower surface 150 toward the bottom of the container. The valve skirt can be used to prevent material from interfering with the movement and operation of the valve assembly. The valve skirt can be used to prevent overflow from mixing with the product and / or propellant. The valve skirt can, for example, prevent overflow generated during the welding process from interfering with the movement and operation of the valve stem and the distribution and / or filling of the product and / or propellant. The valve skirt can control the overflow so that the overflow is contained in the area between the valve skirt and the outer surface of the valve body. It should be understood that the valve skirt may or may not exist, and this may depend on the type and geometry of the product delivery device 56. The valve skirt 172 has a valve skirt height H5 measured from the second valve body surface 98 to the outermost portion of the valve skirt 172. The valve skirt height H5 may be about 0.1 mm to about 15 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm, or about 1 mm to about 5 mm, or about 1 mm to about 3 mm. The valve skirt width may be about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, or about 0.3 mm to about 0.75 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 0.6 mm.The valve skirt 172 may be configured to operatively engage a portion of a dip tube adapter and / or bag.

[0112] As previously described, the valve stem 62 extends through the internal passage 74 of the valve body 54. The valve stem 62 is positioned within the valve body 54 so that a portion of the valve stem 62 extends along the passage surface 80 and is adjacent to and / or passes through at least one of the first passage opening 76 and the second passage opening 78. The valve stem 62 includes an outer stem surface 92 and an inner stem surface 94. The inner stem surface 94 defines a channel 95 in fluid communication with the dispensing opening 116, through which the product and / or propellant can be introduced into the container or dispensed from the container. The outer stem surface 92 can be configured to operatively engage at least one of the engagement member 68 and the resilient member 58, so that the resilient member 58 controls the movement of the valve stem 62. The engagement member 68 can include one or more protrusions to operatively engage a portion of the valve stem 62. The outer stem surface 92 can include one or more protrusions and / or recesses to operatively engage the engagement member 68. The engagement member 68 can substantially surround the valve stem 62 and operatively engage the valve stem 62 so as to move with the valve stem 62.

[0113] like Figure 6B and Figure 7B As shown, the valve stem 62 may include a first stem portion 86, a second stem portion 88, and a third stem portion 90. The second stem portion 88 may be located in the middle of the first stem portion 86 and the third stem portion 90. The first stem portion 86 may be opposite the third stem portion 90. A retaining member 110 may be connected to a portion of the third stem portion 90. The retaining member 110 may extend outwardly from the outer stem surface 92. The retaining member 110 may be manufactured by the valve stem 62 so that it is an integral member, or the retaining member 110 may be attached to the valve stem 62. The valve stem 62 may be constructed entirely as a single piece or may be constructed from multiple components; the multiple components may or may not correspond to the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the valve stem as depicted herein. The retaining member 110 extends outwardly from the longitudinal axis 70 to a distance that allows the retaining member 110 to form a seal with the valve seal 82. When the valve stem 62 is in the sealing configuration, the retaining member 110 engages a portion of the valve seal 82 to prevent the propellant and / or product from being released through the valve stem 62. The retaining member 110 can be any shape that allows the retaining member to form a seal with a portion of the valve seal. For example, the retaining member 110 can be substantially circular, rectangular, square, or irregularly shaped. The retaining member 110 can be axisymmetric or non-axisymmetric.

[0114] The retaining member 110 can be used to form a seal with the valve seal and prevent the valve stem 62 from being unsafely separated from the aerosol container. For example, if the aerosol container is subjected to relatively high temperatures, the pressure of the aerosol may be relatively high, resulting in the need to safely relieve some or all of the pressure. The retaining member can be shaped so that when the aerosol container is subjected to relatively high temperatures, the seal between the retaining member and the valve seal is broken, and the product and / or propellant can be released while the valve stem is retained in the container by the retaining member 110.

[0115] The retaining member 110 may be a substantially solid and substantially uniform member such as Figure 6B As shown. The retaining member 110 may include a first retaining member surface 182 and a second retaining member surface 184. The first retaining member surface 182 may have a substantially flat surface or an uneven surface. The second retaining member surface 184 may have a substantially flat surface or an uneven surface. Each of the first retaining member surface 182 and the second retaining member surface 184 may be shaped to affect the operational engagement of the valve seal 82 and / or the valve body 54. For example, the first retaining member surface 184 may be shaped so that the pressure between the first retaining member surface 184 and the valve seal 82 is concentrated on one or more desired areas.

[0116] The retaining member 110 may include one or more voids 174, such as Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C , Fig. 9A , Fig. 9B , Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B As shown. When the aerosol dispenser is subjected to relatively high temperatures, the one or more gaps 174 can allow for control of the flow of the propellant / product and controlled deformation of the retaining member 110. For example, when the retaining member or any part of the aerosol dispenser is in a deformed state, the product and / or propellant can escape from the container through the gaps 174 while the valve stem 62 is substantially held in place by the retaining member. The one or more gaps 174 can include at least one of a slot 176, a notch 178, and a hole 180. As shown Fig. 7A , Figure 7B and Fig. 8A As shown, the retaining member 110 includes one or more holes 180. The one or more holes 180 extend from a first retaining member surface 182 to a second retaining member surface 184. The one or more holes 180 allow the propellant and / or product to flow therethrough. The one or more holes 180 may be any shape such that the propellant and / or product can pass through the hole. For example, the one or more holes may be substantially circular, oval, rectangular, square, hexagonal, triangular, or some irregular shape.

[0117] like Figure 8B and 8C As shown, the retaining member 110 may include one or more slots 176 extending from the retaining member perimeter 181 toward the valve stem 62. The one or more slots 176 may be any shape so that the propellant and / or product can pass through the hole. For example, the one or more holes may be substantially circular, oval, rectangular, square, hexagonal, triangular, or some irregular shape.

[0118] like Fig. 9A , Fig. 9B , Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B As shown, the retaining member 110 may include one or more notches 178. Each of the one or more notches 178 may extend from the first retaining member surface 182 toward the second retaining member surface 184 or from the second retaining member surface 184 toward the first retaining member surface 182. One or more notches 178 may extend from the retaining member periphery 181 toward the valve stem 62. One or more notches 178 may be located within the retaining member periphery 181. One or more notches 178 may be any shape so that one or more notches allow the control of deformation of the retaining member and / or prevent the valve stem from being ejected from the valve body at elevated temperatures and pressures. For example, one or more notches may be substantially circular, oval, rectangular, square, hexagonal, triangular, or some irregular shape. As previously described, one or more notches 178 may help control the deformation of the retaining member 110. Fig. 10B An example of a notch 178 extending along the second retaining member surface 184 of a portion of the retaining member 110 and a deformation direction indicated by arrow A is shown. The retaining member 110 can be deformed so that the retaining member 110 is separated from the valve seal by moving toward the bottom of the container in the direction of arrow A. The separation and movement of the bottom retaining member 110 allows the product and / or propellant to be released from the container and allows the valve stem to remain in the valve body.

[0119] The valve assembly 52 may include a resilient member 58. The resilient member 58 may be disposed on at least a portion of the valve body 54. The resilient member 58 may be disposed on at least a portion of the first valve body surface 96, such as FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D , Fig. 6A , Fig. 7A , Fig.11 and Fig.12As shown. The elastic member 58 may include a first elastic member surface 190 and a second elastic member surface 192. The elastic member 58 may be positioned between the engagement member 68 and the first valve body surface 96. The second engagement member surface 188 may operatively engage at least a portion of the first elastic member surface 190, and the second elastic member surface 192 may be disposed on at least a portion of the first valve body surface 96. The second engagement member surface 188 may extend above the first elastic member surface 190 so that the engagement member 68 compresses the elastic member 58 when the valve stem 62 moves between the sealing configuration, the dispensing configuration, and / or the filling configuration.

[0120] The elastic member 58 may be disposed within the valve body 54 such that the elastic member does not extend beyond the valve body 54. The elastic member 58 may be disposed within the valve body 54 such that a portion of the elastic member 58 extends above the valve body 54, such as Fig.11 As shown. The extension of the elastic member 58 can be based on the height of the elastic member. The elastic member 58 can have an elastic member height RH. The elastic member height RH can be about 3mm to about 15mm, or about 4mm to about 8mm, or about 5mm to about 7mm, or about 6mm. The elastic member height RH is measured parallel to the longitudinal axis 70. The elastic member height RH can be greater than or less than the dispensing distance DD, which is the distance that the valve stem 62 moves from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration in a direction toward the bottom of the container. The dispensing distance DD is the distance that the valve stem 62 travels to allow product and / or propellant to enter the orifice 108. As shown Fig.11 As shown, dispense distance DD is the distance measured parallel to longitudinal axis 70 from aperture 108 to first retaining member surface 182. The dispense distance may be less than about 50% of elastic member height RH, or less than about 30% of elastic member height RH, or less than about 25% of elastic member height.

[0121] It will be appreciated that for those aerosol dispensers having an orifice for dispensing and an orifice for filling, the resilient member height RH may need to account for this additional filling orifice. Thus, the resilient member height RH is greater than the filling distance FD, which is the distance that the valve stem 62 moves from the sealing configuration to the filling configuration in a direction toward the bottom of the container. The filling distance FD is the distance that the valve stem 62 travels to allow product and / or propellant to enter the orifice 108 for filling the container. Fig.11 As shown, fill distance FD is the distance measured parallel to longitudinal axis 70 from aperture 108 to first retaining member surface 182. The fill distance may be greater than about 50% of resilient member height RH or greater than about 70% of resilient member height RH.

[0122] The resilient member 58 may also be placed under a preload so that the valve stem 62 has a certain amount for forcing the valve stem 62 to be biased in a direction toward the valve body to help maintain the seal between the valve seal 82 and the valve stem 62. Therefore, the resilient member height RH may also take into account the preload of the valve stem 62. In addition, the material properties of the resilient member 58 may require that additional height be added to the resilient member 58 to obtain a consumer-acceptable return of the valve stem from the dispensing configuration to the sealing configuration and to prevent the consumer from moving the valve stem 62 to the filling configuration, which may result in an unacceptable amount of product being dispensed from the aerosol dispenser.

[0123] Elastic member 58 can have unloaded elastic member height, and this height is the elastic member height measured from the first elastic member surface to the second elastic member surface without any force acting on the elastic member.Elastic member 58 can have preloaded elastic member thickness, and this thickness is the elastic member height measured from the first elastic member surface to the second elastic member surface with preload force.Preload force can be supplied by engaging member.Unloaded elastic member height is greater than or equal to preloaded elastic member height.Elastic member 58 can have loaded elastic member height, and this height is the height of elastic member measured from the first elastic member surface to the second elastic member surface with loading force, and the loading force is greater than the preload force applied to elastic member.Loading force can be supplied by user.Loaded elastic member height is less than unloaded elastic member height and preloaded elastic member height.It should be understood that elastic member can include one or more parts, and each part in one or more parts can have different or identical unloaded height, preload height and loaded height.

[0124] It will be appreciated that if the resilient member is relatively thin, portions of the resilient member may strain as the valve stem moves. Movement of the valve stem may result in thinning of the resilient member. The height of the resilient member may vary.

[0125] The resilient member 58 can substantially surround the valve stem 62 and can be any shape that cooperates with the valve body 54 and provides appropriate control of the valve stem 62 when in the sealing, dispensing and filling configurations. The resilient member 58 can generally be in the shape of a circle, square, rectangle, oval, trapezoid, parallelogram, triangle, gear, or any other shape that cooperates with the valve body and provides the desired control of the movement of the valve stem. For example, a Fig.11 and Fig.13A As shown, the elastic member can be circular and hexagonal, respectively. It should be understood that the shape of the inner surface of the elastic member 58 can be different from the shape of the outer surface of the elastic member 58. For example, the outer surface of the elastic member can be gear-shaped, and the inner part of the elastic member can be substantially circular, such as Fig. 13C shown.

[0126] The elastic member 58 may have an elastic member thickness RT. The elastic member thickness RT may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and measured between the elastic member outer surface 200 and the elastic member inner surface 202. The elastic member thickness RT may be uniform or non-uniform around the longitudinal axis 70. The elastic member thickness may vary along the height of the elastic member. The elastic member thickness may vary in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 70. The elastic member thickness RT may be from about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm, or from about 2 mm to about 8 mm, or from about 3 mm to about 6 mm, or from about 3 mm to about 4 mm. The elastic member thickness RT may be greater than about 0.5 mm, or greater than about 1 mm, or greater than about 2 mm, or greater than about 4 mm, or greater than about 6 mm, or greater than about 8 mm, or greater than about 10 mm.

[0127] The elastic member 58 may have a cross-section extending in a plane including the longitudinal axis and an axis substantially parallel to and coincident with the elastic member thickness RT. The elastic member 58 has a cross-sectional shape. The cross-sectional shape of the elastic member 58 may be substantially circular, rectangular, elliptical, triangular, square, or trapezoidal. The elastic member 58 may have a cross-sectional aspect ratio of about 0.5 to about 2. The aspect ratio is the ratio of the elastic member thickness to the elastic member height.

[0128] The resilient member 58 may be sized such that the resilient member 58 may be disposed between the valve stem 62 and the first attachment protrusion 168. The resilient member 58 may be sized such that the resilient member 58 may be disposed between the valve stem 62 and the second attachment protrusion 168.

[0129] like Fig.11 and Fig. 13B As shown, the elastic member 58 may be substantially annular. Therefore, the elastic member 58 may include an inner diameter IDR and an outer diameter ODR. The valve stem 62 may have an outer diameter ODS measured from the outer stem surface 92. The inner diameter IDR of the elastic member 58 may be greater than the outer diameter ODS of the valve stem 62 to allow the valve stem to move through the elastic member. The elastic member inner diameter IDR may be about 5% to about 50% greater than the valve stem outer diameter ODS. The inner diameter IDR may be about 4mm to about 6mm and / or about 4mm to about 7mm. The outer diameter ODR may be about 10mm to about 15mm. The outer diameter ODR of the elastic member 58 may be less than the outer diameter of the valve body measured to the outer surface 72 of the valve body, so that the elastic member fits in the valve body 54. There may be a gap between the outer surface 200 of the elastic member and any part of the valve body 54, such as the first support member 162 or the second support member 164. The gap allows the elastic member 58 to expand outward during compression of the elastic member 58. The amount of outward expansion, if any, of the resilient member 58 may be based in part on the geometry and material properties of the resilient member 58 .

[0130] The resilient member 58 may be partially or completely supported by a portion of the valve body 54. The resilient member 58 may be supported such that about 2% or about 5% or about 10% or about 25% or about 40% or about 50% or about 65% or about 80% or about 100% of the second resilient member surface 192 is supported by a portion of the valve body 54 in the sealing configuration. The resilient member 58 may be supported such that at least about 10% or at least about 25% or at least about 50% or at least about 80% of the second resilient member surface 192 is supported by a portion of the valve body 54 in the sealing configuration. Fig.11 As shown, the second resilient member surface 192 is completely supported by the first valve body surface 96. The first valve body surface 96 extends under the entire second resilient member surface 192. The second resilient member surface 192 can be completely supported by the first hoop member 140 or the second hoop member 142. Fig.11 As shown, the first cuff upper surface 148 fully supports the second elastic member surface 192. It should also be appreciated that the second cuff upper surface 156 may partially or fully support the second elastic member surface 192.

[0131] like FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D , Fig. 7A and Fig.12 As shown, the second elastic member surface 192 can be partially supported by the first valve body surface 96. A portion of the second elastic member surface 192 can be supported by the first valve body surface 192. A portion of the second elastic member surface 192 is disposed on the first valve body surface 192, and a portion of the second elastic member surface 192 is not supported by the first valve body surface 192. A gap 194 can be formed between a portion of the first valve body surface 192 and the second elastic member surface 192, as shown in FIG. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D , Fig. 7A and Fig.12 As shown. The size of the gap 194 may depend on the geometry of the valve body 54 and the resilient member 58. The gap 194 may be present when the valve stem 62 is in the sealing configuration and when the valve stem 62 moves to the dispensing configuration and the filling configuration. The gap 194 may be present when the valve stem 62 is in the sealing configuration and when the valve stem 62 is in the dispensing configuration, but the gap may or may not be present during the filling configuration. When the resilient member 58 is compressed so that the unsupported portion of the second resilient member surface at least partially engages the first valve body surface 96 and is at least partially supported by the first valve body surface, the gap 194 may not exist or the area of ​​the gap may be reduced. The gap 194 may be present when the valve stem 62 is in the sealing configuration, and the gap 194 may not exist when the valve stem 62 is in the dispensing and / or filling configuration. The compression of the resilient member 58 to the dispensing configuration or the filling configuration may cause the unsupported portion of the second resilient member surface to engage the first valve body surface 192, and therefore, the portion of the resilient member 58 is at least partially supported by the first valve body surface 96.

[0132] like Fig. 7A and Fig.12 As shown, the elastic member 58 may include a first elastic member portion 196 and a second elastic member portion 198. The first elastic member portion 196 may be supported by a portion of the first valve body surface 96. The first elastic member portion 196 may be supported by a portion of the first hoop member 140. The first elastic member portion 196 may be disposed between an upper portion of the first valve body surface 96 and the second engagement surface of the engagement member. The first elastic member portion 196 may contact the engagement member and a portion of the first valve body surface 96. The first elastic member portion 196 may be disposed between a portion of the first hoop member 140 and the second engagement surface of the engagement member. The first elastic member portion 196 may contact the engagement member and a portion of the first hoop member 140.

[0133] The second resilient member portion 198 may extend beyond an upper portion of the first valve body surface 96 such that the second resilient member portion is not at least partially supported by the upper portion of the first valve body surface 96. The second resilient member portion 198 may extend over a portion of a lower portion of the first valve body surface 96 such that a gap 194 exists between the second resilient member portion 198 and the lower portion of the first valve body surface 96. The second resilient member portion 198 may extend beyond the first hoop member 140 such that the second resilient member portion is not at least partially supported by the first hoop member 140. The second resilient member portion 198 may extend over a portion of the second hoop member 142 such that a gap 194 exists between the second resilient member portion 198 and the second hoop member 142. The gap 194 may exist when the valve stem 62 is positioned in the sealing configuration, and the gap 194 may or may not be substantially closed when the valve stem 62 is positioned in the dispensing configuration or the filling configuration. In the sealing configuration, a portion of the engagement member may be disposed on the second resilient member portion 198, and a gap may exist between the resilient member and the lower portion of the first valve body surface 96. When the valve stem 62 moves, the second resilient member portion 198 may be compressed, causing the second resilient member portion 198 to move toward the lower portion of the first valve body surface 96. The second resilient member portion 198 may contact the lower portion of the first valve body surface 96 when the valve stem is in the dispensing configuration and / or the filling configuration.

[0134] The first elastic member portion 196 may have a first elastic member height, and the second elastic member portion 198 may have a second elastic member height. The first elastic member height and the second elastic member height may be the same or different. The first elastic member portion 196 may have a first elastic member thickness, and the second elastic member portion 198 may have a second elastic member thickness. The first elastic member thickness and the second elastic member thickness may be the same or different. The first elastic member portion 196 may be made of a first material, and the second elastic member portion 198 may be made of a second material, and the first material may be the same as or different from the second material.

[0135] It should also be appreciated that at least one of the first resilient member surface 190 and the second engagement member surface 188 can be shaped such that a gap is formed between the first resilient member surface 190 and the second engagement member surface 188. The gap can exist when the valve stem 62 is in the sealing configuration, and the gap may or may not continue to exist when the valve stem 62 moves to the dispensing configuration or the filling configuration.

[0136] The elastic member 58 may be a one-piece member such as Fig.11 , Fig.12 , FIG. 14A to FIG. 14E As shown, or a multi-piece component, such as FIG. 14F to FIG. 14J As shown. The multi-piece elastic member includes one or more different members positioned to form the elastic member 58. The one or more members can be made of the same material or different materials. The one or more members can be different shapes and sizes or the same shape and size. The one-piece member includes a single member having one or more parts. The one or more parts can contain different or the same materials and can be different shapes and sizes or the same shape and size. The elastic member can include one or more notches and / or holes.

[0137] The elastic member 58 can be made of an elastic polymer material, such as a thermosetting material, a thermoplastic material or a plastomer. The elastic polymer material can include a non-crosslinked material. The elastic polymer material can include a melt-processable material. The thermoplastic material can contain crosslinked polymer chains that remain melt-processable. The elastic member can be made entirely of one or more non-crosslinked elastic polymer materials. The elastic member can be made entirely of one or more melt-processable elastic polymer materials. The elastic polymer material can be modified such as by means of an additive or by foaming to change its properties.

[0138] The elastic member may include one or more thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). The thermoplastic elastomer may be a styrene block copolymer (TPS), a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer (TPO), a thermoplastic elastomer vulcanizate (TPV), a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU), a thermoplastic copolyester elastomer (TPC), a thermoplastic polyamide elastomer (TPA), a non-classified thermoplastic elastomer (TPZ), and combinations thereof.

[0139] To aid in the recyclability of the container, the elastic member may include at least one of a non-crosslinked material and a melt-processable material, or the elastic member may be made entirely of one or more non-crosslinked melt-processable materials. In addition, the elastic member 58 may have a density that allows the elastic member 58 to float apart during recycling. The density of the elastic member 58 may be less than 1.0 g / cc.

[0140] The elastic member 58 can have a hardness greater than about 5 Shore A, or greater than about 10 Shore A, or greater than about 20 Shore A. The hardness of the thermoplastic elastomer can be from about 5 Shore A to about 60 Shore A, or from about 10 Shore A to about 50 Shore A, or from about 15 Shore A to about 40 Shore A, or from about 20 Shore A to about 35 Shore A, including 1.0 increments between the ranges. It should be understood that the foaming material will change the hardness.

[0141] The resilient member 58 can be used to control the movement of the valve stem 62. The resilient member 58 can be made of a material that compresses linearly. The resilient member 58 can be made of a material that compresses nonlinearly and thus has a nonlinear compression profile. For a nonlinear compression profile, the force required to compress the resilient member, i.e., the compression force (FtC), does not vary linearly with the amount of compression. When the valve stem 62 moves from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration and the filling configuration, the force used to compress the resilient member 58 changes. The force used to compress the resilient member 58 does not vary linearly with the movement of the valve stem 62.

[0142] The resilient member 58 may be preloaded so that the resilient member 58 is compressed an initial distance to bias the valve stem in a direction toward the valve body or in a sealing configuration. To preload the resilient member 58, the engagement member may apply a force of about 2N to about 20N, or about 3N to about 15N, or about 5N to about 10N. To preload the resilient member 58, the engagement member may apply a force of less than about 10N, or less than about 8N, or less than about 5N.

[0143] When the valve stem 62 moves from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration, the resilient member 58 is further compressed. The force required to compress the resilient member 58 to allow the valve stem 62 to reach the dispensing configuration is about 12 N to about 30 N, or about 15 N to about 25 N. The force required to compress the resilient member 58 to allow the valve stem 62 to reach the dispensing configuration is greater than about 10 N, or greater than about 12 N, or greater than about 15 N, or greater than about 25 N.

[0144] When the valve stem 62 moves from the dispensing configuration to the filling configuration, the resilient member 58 is further compressed. The force required to compress the resilient member 58 to allow the valve stem 62 to reach the filling configuration is greater than about 30N or greater than about 40N or greater than about 45N or greater than about 50N or greater than about 60N. The force to compress the resilient member 58 to position the valve stem in the filling configuration is relatively higher than the force required to compress the resilient member 58 to position the valve stem in the dispensing configuration. The force to compress the resilient member to position the valve stem in the filling configuration is greater than the force to compress the resilient member to position the valve stem in the dispensing configuration, because at least during the normal, intended use of the aerosol dispenser, enabling the consumer to move the valve stem 62 to a position that will allow the product to be unexpectedly dispensed makes it undesirable to dispense a relatively large amount of product. It should be understood that one or more orifices for dispensing the product can also be used to fill the product and / or propellant, and a set of separate orifices only for filling the product and / or propellant may not be used. Thus, the aerosol may or may not include one or more orifices for dispensing and one or more orifices for filling, but may only include one or more orifices for dispensing product and / or propellant. It should also be understood that the force for compression and the force for returning the elastic member will vary based on the geometry and material properties of the elastic member.

[0145] like Fig.15 As shown, the elastic member 58 can be preloaded so that the elastic member 58 is compressed by about 0.5mm. In order to preload the elastic member 58, the engaging member applies a force of about 12N. When the valve stem 62 moves from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration, the elastic member 58 is further compressed by about 1.5mm, and the total compression is about 2.0mm. The force required to compress the elastic member 58 to allow the valve stem 62 to reach the dispensing configuration is about 25N to about 35N. When the valve stem 62 moves from the dispensing configuration to the filling configuration, the elastic member 58 is further compressed by at least about 3.0mm. The force required to compress the elastic member 58 to allow the valve stem 62 to reach the filling configuration is greater than about 60N.

[0146] The elastic member can have a compression force (FtC) of less than about 60N to ensure that the consumer can actuate the aerosol dispenser. Actuation refers to the movement of the valve stem 62 from the sealing structure to the dispensing structure. It should be understood that although the force used to compress the elastic member contributes to the force that the consumer must apply to activate the aerosol dispenser, other factors such as the actuator type can further contribute to the force that the user or consumer must apply to activate the aerosol dispenser. For example, in a button actuator, the force applied by the consumer is directly transferred to the valve stem to activate the aerosol dispenser, while in a trigger sprayer, the trigger element provides the consumer with additional leverage, so that the force applied by the smaller consumer can achieve a higher compression force on the elastic member. The force of the compressed elastic member of the aerosol dispenser with a trigger element to dispense the product can be higher than the compression force of the aerosol dispenser with a button to dispense the product. The mechanical advantage of the actuator type can be a consideration when selecting materials for the elastic member with the desired compression force.

[0147] In other words, actuator configurations such as trigger sprayers generally have the effect of reducing the user-applied force required to compress the resilient member relative to the force required for a button configuration. When the consumer-applied force is directly transferred to the resilient member, a push-button actuator generally has a higher consumer-applied force requirement than an alternative actuator configuration. The resilient member may have a compression force of less than about 60N, less than about 50N, less than about 40N, less than about 35N, less than about 30N, or less than about 25N.

[0148] The aerosol dispenser is configured so that when the force applied by the consumer is removed, the valve stem returns to the sealing configuration. The force required for the valve stem to return to the sealing configuration from the distribution or filling configuration is the restoring force (FtR). The elastic member can have a restoring force greater than about 5N to ensure that the elastic member drives the valve stem 62 back to the sealing configuration, wherein the orifice 108 isolates the product and / or the propellant. If the elastic member does not provide enough restoring forces, the aerosol dispenser can continue to distribute after the consumer has released the actuator. The elastic member can have a restoring force greater than about 5N, greater than about 7N, greater than about 10N, greater than about 20N, greater than about 30N or greater than about 40N.

[0149] Table 1A

[0150]

[0151]

[0152] Table 1B

[0153]

[0154] Note: Materials for Examples 1-3 were supplied by Kraiburg. Materials for Example 4 were supplied by Lubrizol.

[0155] Table 2A

[0156]

[0157]

[0158] Table 2B

[0159]

[0160] Note: Materials for Examples 5-7 were supplied by Kraiburg. Materials for Examples 8 and 9 were supplied by Lubrizol.

[0161] Tables 1A, 1B, 2A and 2B include compression forces (FtC) and restoring forces (FtR) of multiple elastic members 58 made of different materials with various hardnesses. Tables 1A and 1B include embodiments of elastic members, which are configured as rings with elastic member height RH of 6mm, outer diameter of 14mm and inner diameter of 6mm. Tables 2A and 2B include embodiments of elastic members 58, which are configured as rings with elastic member height RH of 6mm, outer diameter of 14mm and inner diameter of 6mm or 8mm. For Tables 1A, 1B, 2A and 2B, FtC and FtR measurements are performed on a flat surface so that the entire elastic member is supported during measurement. It can be seen that FtC values ​​and FtR values ​​generally follow the hardness values, but are not completely related to the hardness values.

[0162] Table 3A

[0163]

[0164]

[0165] Table 3B

[0166]

[0167]

[0168] Note: Materials for Examples 10-15 were supplied by Kraiburg.

[0169] Tables 3A and 3B include the compression force (FtC) and the restoring force (FtR) for a range of resilient members formed from a given resilient member material in a variety of different geometric configurations that also incorporate the geometry of the valve body.

[0170] In Examples 10, 11 and 12, the elastic member was configured as a ring with an elastic member height of 6 mm, an outer diameter of 14 mm and an inner diameter varying from 6 mm to 8 mm, wherein the FtC and FtR were performed on a flat surface such that the entire elastic member was supported when the FtC and FtR were determined. The data indicates that the FtC increases with decreasing inner diameter, which would be consistent with the increased overall mass of the elastic member with a decreasing inner diameter.

[0171] Examples 13, 14 and 15 show the FtC and FtR of a resilient member incorporated into a representative valve body, such as Figure 5A As shown. In this configuration, the elastic member is partially supported by the upper portion of the first valve body surface or the first hoop upper surface 148, and is not partially supported by the upper portion of the first valve body surface or the first upper hoop surface 148, so that the inner portion of the annular elastic member is suspended above the lower portion of the first valve body surface or the second hoop upper surface without contacting it. In this configuration, the elastic member partially functions as a compression spring and partially functions as a leaf spring.

[0172] As shown in Tables 3A and 3B, the relative geometry of the annular resilient member and the valve body geometry can have a significant impact on FtC and FtR. For example, while the data in rows 2 and 3 have relatively high FtC values ​​at 2 mm displacement when fully supported, these same resilient members corresponding to the data in rows 5 and 6 have relatively low FtC values ​​at 2 mm displacement when incorporated into a valve body.

[0173] Table 4A

[0174]

[0175]

[0176] Table 4B

[0177]

[0178]

[0179] Note: Materials for Examples 16-20 were supplied by Kraiburg.

[0180] Tables 4A and 4B include compression force (FtC) and restoring force (FtR) for multiple resilient members 58 made of different materials. Examples 16 and 17 include FtC and FtR information for resilient members configured as rings with a resilient member height RH of 3 mm, an outer diameter of 12 mm, and an inner diameter of 5 mm. Example 16 includes FtC and FtR for resilient members tested on a flat surface so that the entire resilient member is supported during measurement, and Example 17 includes FtC and FtR for resilient members tested in a valve including four force concentrators located on the engagement member and four force concentrators offset on the valve body. Examples 18 and 19 include FtC and FtR information for resilient members configured as rings with a resilient member height RH of 7 mm, an outer diameter of 12 mm, and an inner diameter of 5 mm. Example 18 includes the FtC and FtR of an elastic member tested on a flat surface so that the entire elastic member is supported during measurement, and Example 19 includes the FtC and FtR of an elastic member tested in a valve, the valve including four force concentrators located on the engaging member and four force concentrators offset on the valve body. Example 20 includes the FtC and FtR of an elastic member shaped as an O-ring and having an inner diameter of 7.6 mm, an outer diameter of 11.2 mm, and a circular cross-sectional diameter of 1.78 mm. Example 20 includes the FtC and FtR of an elastic member tested with a valve, the valve including four force concentrators located on the engaging member and four force concentrators offset on the valve body. As shown in Tables 4A and 4B, the FtC values ​​and FtR values ​​can be changed by the geometry of the valve such as a force concentrator. A force concentrator can be used to reduce FtC and FtR.

[0181] Aerosol dispenser is such as pressurized with propellant. Therefore, the internal pressure of the container can help to form a seal between the valve assembly and the container. In order to distribute product and / or propellant from the container, the user can directly or indirectly (such as by using an actuator) engage the valve stem 62, so that the valve stem 62 moves. When engaged, the valve stem 62 can move along the channel surface 80 or in the channel surface. The valve stem 62 can move from a first position (sealing configuration) to a second position (dispensing configuration). In the dispensing configuration, the valve stem 62 moves so that the seal between the valve stem and the valve seal in the orifice area is destroyed. In other words, the valve stem 62 can move so that the portion of the valve stem including the orifice loses engagement with the valve seal. Then, the propellant and / or product can flow through the orifice and enter the channel 95. When the valve stem 62 is disengaged, the valve stem 62 can move and the portion of the valve stem including the orifice can reengage the valve seal to form a seal again between the valve seal and the valve stem. When the seal reengages, product and / or propellant may no longer flow toward the orifice 108 .

[0182] When the user engages the actuator, the valve stem 62 can be positioned in the dispensing configuration. Therefore, the force required to move the valve stem 62 from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration is generally provided by the user. It should be understood that the valve stem 62 may include one or more orifices for dispensing the product. However, in some embodiments, additional orifices may be included in the valve stem 62 for filling the container. Since these additional orifices are placed closer to the first portion 86 of the valve stem 62, greater force is required to move the valve stem 62 to a position where the product and / or propellant can flow through these orifices and into or out of the container.

[0183] More specifically, the valve stem 62 can move so that the portion of the valve stem including the filling orifice is placed in communication with the internal fluid of the container. The seal disengagement between the valve seal and the valve stem in the portion of the valve stem including the filling orifice may be due to the portion of the valve stem 62 including the filling orifice extending beyond the second channel opening 78 of the valve body 54, which allows the product and / or propellant to flow through the filling orifice. This position of the valve stem 62 can be referred to as a filling configuration. The filling configuration can be used, for example, to introduce the product and / or propellant into the container during the manufacture of the aerosol dispenser. The product and / or propellant allowed to be introduced through a plurality of orifices can be relatively shortened by filling the container faster. Moreover, by having an orifice positioned along the valve stem, the orifice can be of different sizes, and those sizes can be selected so that they are best suited to the specific functions of the dispenser. For example, the size of the first orifice positioned between the retaining member and the second portion of the valve stem 62 can be set to allow product distribution, and the size of the second orifice positioned between the first orifice and the first portion of the valve stem can be set to allow the dispenser to be filled. For example, the orifice for product dispensing can be smaller than the orifice for filling the dispenser. It should be appreciated that the filling configuration can also be used for dispensing. For example, when the rod is positioned in the dispensing configuration, the dispenser can have a first dispensing rate, and when the rod is positioned in the filling configuration, the dispenser can have a second dispensing rate greater than the first dispensing rate. Each orifice can be used to dispense and fill at least one of the product and / or the propellant.

[0184] It should be understood that the product and / or propellant can pass through the orifice in either direction. The product and / or propellant can flow from the container through the orifice and into the channel 95, or can flow from the channel 95 through the orifice and into the container. The channel 95 can be in fluid communication with each of the orifices positioned around the valve stem 62. It should also be understood that the valve stem 62 can include any number of orifices.

[0185] The valve assembly can be configured so that in order to fill the container, the product and / or propellant can pass through one or more orifices defined by the valve stem and / or around the outer stem surface 92. Thus, the product and / or propellant can flow into the container through the channel 95 and orifice 108 of the valve stem and / or around the outer stem surface 92 of the valve stem. Allowing the product and / or propellant to be filled through multiple paths through the valve assembly and into the container can provide a relatively faster filling of the container. For example, the filling configuration may not require an orifice in the valve stem 62 that is in fluid communication with the product delivery device 56, but may include a condition in which the product delivery device 56 is in fluid communication with a filling device that is radially sealed around the channel by means of the channel 74.

[0186] As previously described, the valve assembly 52 may include an engagement member 68. The engagement member 68 may be connected to a portion of the valve stem 62 such that the engagement member 68 moves as the valve stem 62 moves. The engagement member 68 may extend from the outer stem surface 92 toward the outer surface 72 of the valve body 54, such as Fig.16A As shown. The engagement member 68 may be axisymmetric or non-axisymmetric. The engagement member 68 includes an engagement surface 69, such as Fig. 16B As shown. Engagement surface 69 can be configured to operatively engage a portion of resilient member 58. Resilient member 58 can be positioned between engagement surface and a portion of valve body 54. When valve stem 62 is in the sealing configuration, engagement surface 69 can operatively engage resilient member 58 so that resilient member 58 is placed under a desired amount of compression that biases valve stem 62 to remain in a position that maintains the seal. When valve stem 62 is in the dispensing configuration, a user or other mechanical device can overcome the force of the resilient member to move valve stem 62 from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration or the filling configuration. When valve stem 62 moves from the sealing configuration to the dispensing configuration, engagement member 68 compresses resilient member 58.

[0187] The engagement surface 69 of the engagement member 68 may include one or more force concentrators 124, such as Fig.16A and Fig. 16B As shown. One or more force concentrators 124 can be connected to the engagement member 68. One or more force concentrators 124 can be integrally molded with the engagement member 68 or added to the engagement member 68 later. One or more force concentrators 124 can extend from the engagement surface 69 toward the elastic member 58 and be configured to operatively engage the elastic member 58. When the valve stem is moved by a user or other mechanical device, the one or more force concentrators 124 concentrate the force applied to the elastic member 58. One or more force concentrators can be used to optimize the force of the moving valve stem and the ability of the valve stem to remain in a sealing configuration. The total surface area of ​​the portion of the one or more force concentrators that engage the elastic member 58 is less than the total surface area of ​​the elastic member 58 in a facing relationship with the one or more force concentrators.

[0188] The one or more force concentrators can apply strain only to those portions of the resilient member 58 that are engaged by the one or more force concentrators. The one or more force concentrators 124 can be any shape and size so that the desired force is achieved. For example, the force concentrator can be rectangular, square, conical or tapered or crescent-shaped. The force concentrator can include a notch or hole. The one or more force concentrators can extend radially outward from the longitudinal axis or extend circumferentially along the longitudinal axis.

[0189] refer to Fig.16A and Fig. 16C , the valve body 54 may include one or more force concentrators 124. The one or more force concentrators 124 may be integrally molded with the valve body or added to the valve body later. The one or more force concentrators 124 may extend from the valve body 54 toward the elastic member 68. The elastic member 68 may be disposed on the one or more force concentrators 124 extending from the valve body 54. The one or more force concentrators 124 may be connected to any portion of the valve body 54 so that it operatively engages the elastic member 58. For example, the one or more force concentrators 124 may be connected to a portion of the valve body 54 adjacent to the internal passage 74. Two or more force concentrators 124 may surround the internal passage 74 adjacent to the first passage opening 76. When the valve stem is moved by a user or other mechanical device, the one or more force concentrators 124 concentrate the force applied to the elastic member 58. The one or more force concentrators may be used to optimize the force of the moving valve stem and the ability of the valve stem to remain in a sealing configuration. The one or more force concentrators 124 may be of any shape and size so that the desired force is achieved, such as previously discussed.

[0190] It should be appreciated that one or more force concentrators 124 may be connected to either the engagement member 68 or the valve body 54. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that one or more force concentrators 124 may be connected to each of the engagement member 68 and the valve body 54.

[0191] For configurations of the valve assembly in which both the engagement member 68 and the valve body 54 have one or more force concentrators connected thereto, the one or more force concentrators of the valve body 54 may be aligned or offset with the one or more force concentrators of the engagement member 68. For configurations in which the one or more force concentrators of the valve body are offset from the one or more force concentrators of the engagement member, a relatively thin elastic member may be used because the force concentrator has more space in which to travel and act on the elastic member. In contrast, aligning the one or more force concentrators of the engagement member with the one or more force concentrators of the valve body may require a relatively thick elastic member to prevent the one or more force concentrators from directly engaging each other and reaching a point where the elastic member is no longer compressible, which may result in forces to move the valve stem exceeding those required for typical consumer use.

[0192] refer to Fig.17A and Fig. 17B , the position of the resilient member 58 can be such that the resilient member 58 is located between the valve body 54 and the container or dip tube adapter 64. In other words, the resilient member 58 can be positioned adjacent to the second channel opening 78 of the internal channel 74 of the valve body 54. Similar to the above, one or more force concentrators 124 can be connected to the retaining member 110, and / or one or more force concentrators can be connected to the dip tube adapter 64. The force concentrator is configured to operatively engage the resilient member and generate a desired force to move the valve stem.

[0193] One or more force concentrators may be connected to at least one of the valve body 54, the retaining member 110, and the engagement member 68, or one or more force concentrators may be formed as separate components and added to the valve assembly, such as FIG. 17A to FIG. 17B As shown. The engagement member 68 includes one or more force concentrators configured to operatively engage a first portion of the elastic member 58, and the force concentrator member 126 may include one or more force concentrators 124 configured to operatively engage a second portion of the elastic member 58. The one or more force concentrators may be shaped to better position and / or retain the elastic member 58. For example, the one or more force concentrators 124 may have a generally concave shape at the portion of the force concentrator that contacts the elastic member 58.

[0194] It should be appreciated that in any of the foregoing configurations, one or more force concentrators may be connected to a separate force concentrator member, and a member including one or more force concentrators may be included in the valve assembly to operatively engage the resilient member.

[0195] It should be appreciated that the valve assembly 52 can be configured such that the valve stem 62 does not extend above at least one of the upper portion of the neck or the upper portion of the valve body, such as Fig.17A and Fig. 17B As shown. Thus, at least one of the upper portion of the neck or the upper portion of the valve body protects the valve stem during manufacture and shipping of the partially assembled dispenser. More specifically, when the valve stem extends beyond the upper surface of the neck and / or the upper surface of the valve body and before the actuator is connected to the valve stem, the valve stem may be inadvertently engaged, thereby allowing the product and / or propellant to be dispensed, or a portion of the valve stem may be damaged. Alternatively, by positioning the valve stem below the upper portion of the neck and / or the upper portion of the valve body, the valve stem may be protected from inadvertent damage or dispensing.

[0196] The aforementioned components of the aerosol dispenser 30 may be polymeric. By polymeric is meant that the component is formed of a material comprising a polymer and / or specifically a polyolefin, polyester or nylon, and more specifically PET. Therefore, the entire aerosol dispenser 30 or a specific component thereof may be metal-free. The container 32 and all other components may include, consist essentially of, or consist of PET, polyethylene furandicarboxylate (PEF), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), nylon, EVOH, or a combination thereof. In addition to propellants and products, all or substantially all of the components of the aerosol dispenser may be configured to be accepted in a single recycling stream. According to ASTM D7611, all such materials or most of the components of the aerosol dispenser 30 (excluding propellants and products) may be composed of a single type of resin. In particular, by weight, most of the aerosol dispenser 30 may be PET. By weight, most of the valve assemblies may be PET.

[0197] Permanent or semi-permanent seals can be used to connect any or all of the polymeric components of the aerosol dispenser 30. Specifically, if the components have compatible melt indexes, such components can be sealed by welding to retain the propellant therein. Suitable welding methods may include sonic, ultrasonic, spin, and laser welding. For example, spin welding provides the following benefits: the energy plane is generally limited to a small vertical space, thereby limiting accidental damage to other components that are not intended to be welded or receive such energy. Welding can be accomplished using a commercially available welder such as that available from Branson Ultrasonics Corp. of Danbury, Connecticut.

[0198] In the process of heating the aerosol dispenser intentionally or unintentionally, overpressure and deformation may occur. Such overpressure and deformation may lead to rupture of the aerosol dispenser and / or premature loss of propellant and / or product. The valve 52 can be designed so as to control the deformation and control the release of the product and / or propellant.

[0199] The valve stem 62 can be designed in part to help control the overpressure and deformation of the aerosol dispenser when heated to a relatively high temperature. The valve stem 62 can include a retaining member 110. The retaining member 110 can be positioned at the third portion 90 of the valve stem 62. The retaining member 110 can be a separate member connected to the valve stem 62, or can be integrally formed during the manufacturing process of the valve stem 62, such as by molding. The retaining member 110 can be configured to engage a portion of the valve body 54. For example, the retaining member 110 can be configured to engage a portion of the valve body 54 adjacent to the second channel opening 78. The retaining member 110 can be configured to engage any portion of the valve body 54 and / or the valve seal. The retaining member 110 helps to position the valve stem 62 relative to the internal passage 74, and helps to prevent the valve stem 62 from being unfavorably ejected from the valve body 54.

[0200] During over-pressurization of the dispenser, the retaining member 110 can deform and allow the valve stem 62 to move in a direction away from the valve body and / or valve seal, but not to pop out of the valve body. The retaining member 110 can deform in a manner that allows the valve stem 62 to move away from the valve body and / or valve seal to create a flow path that allows venting or release of product and / or propellant and prevents unsafe ejection of the valve stem from the valve body 54 and / or unsafe discharge of product and / or propellant from the container.

[0201] When the aerosol dispenser is subjected to these relatively high temperatures and / or pressures, an aerosol dispenser including the aforementioned components can be used to safely discharge propellant and / or product. The valve assembly is designed to allow the release of product and / or propellant. When the aerosol dispenser is subjected to relatively high temperatures, the valve body can pivot around the transition portion, which allows the valve body to move away from the valve stem. The valve stem can be separated from the valve seal so that the product and / or propellant can flow from the container, through or around a retaining member, which can include one or more gaps, such as holes, slots, and recesses. Through the movement of the valve body, a flow path is formed between the valve stem and the valve seal. The movement of the valve body can be away from the container and / or outward toward the neck of the container. The valve body can pivot around the transition portion, and it can also pivot around the valve cavity to allow the valve body to move and form a flow path between the valve seal and the valve stem. The gap in the retaining member can also help to allow the release of product and / or propellant. The product and / or propellant can pass through the void, such as a hole and / or a slot, or the void can deform the retaining member, such as relative to one or more notches. The deformation of the retaining member can provide a flow path from the container through a separate valve seal and valve stem. An aerosol dispenser including the aforementioned components can safely release the product and / or propellant.

[0202] Test Method

[0203] Compression and recovery forces

[0204] The compressive force (FtC) and the restoring force (FtR) are determined using a constant rate of extension tensile tester in compression mode, such as a Stable Micro Systems TA.XT Plus texture analyzer (available from Texture Technologies, Hamilton, MA) or equivalent with Exponent software for data collection and analysis. The instrument is configured with a 100 Kg load cell. The test sample is placed below the upper platen and rests on the lower platen. The upper platen is a flat circular platen orthogonal to the compression axis, with a diameter greater than the diameter of the test sample. The lower platen is a horizontal platform base.

[0205] The instrument is programmed for compression mode. The upper platen is lowered at a rate of 0.5 mm / sec until a force of 0.49 N is detected. At this vertical position, the test compression begins and the adjusted gauge is set accordingly. The upper platen is lowered by 4.0 mm at 0.50 mm / sec, with a hold time of 0.0 seconds. Once the 4.0 mm vertical displacement is reached, the upper platen is immediately raised to the adjusted gauge at 0.50 mm / sec. The upper platen is then returned to its starting position. Data is recorded at a frequency of at least 400 Hz for the compression and recovery cycles.

[0206] The FtC and FtR measurements are performed on the resilient member both within the valve body geometry and remotely isolated from the valve body. If the resilient member is a multi-part member, the remote measurements are performed on all parts together as they will be arranged within the valve body geometry.

[0207] Place the sample (i.e., elastic member or valve body including an elastic member) on the platform of the instrument, centered below the upper platen. Manually lower the platen to approximately 2 mm above the sample. Zero the distance and force. Start the program and collect distance and force data.

[0208] Construct a curve of distance (mm) versus force (N), including compression and recovery cycles. At a specified distance, read the force value from the compression cycle and record it as FtC, X mm (where X is the compression distance) to the nearest 0.01 N. At the same specified distance, read the force value from the recovery cycle and record it as FtR, X mm (where X is the compression distance) to the nearest 0.01 N. For the elastic member alone and the valve body with the elastic member, repeat the measurement for a total of 3 parallel samples, and report the value as the average value to the nearest 0.01 N.

[0209] The hardness is determined by ISO 7619-1.

[0210] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​cited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

[0211] It should be understood that each maximum numerical limit given in this specification will include each smaller numerical limit, as if the smaller numerical limit was also indicated in this specification. Each minimum numerical limit given throughout this specification will include each higher numerical limit, as if such higher numerical limits were clearly written herein. Each numerical range given throughout this specification will include each narrower numerical range falling within such wider numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all clearly written herein.

[0212] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or the benefit of, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art to any of the present invention disclosed or claimed herein, or an admission that it, by itself or in combination with any one or more of the references, proposes, suggests, or discloses any such invention. In addition, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this invention shall govern.

[0213] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A valve for a dispenser, the valve comprising: A valve body, the valve body comprising: an outer surface and an interior passage extending about a longitudinal axis, wherein the interior passage includes a first passage opening and a second passage opening and a passage surface extending from the first passage opening to the second passage opening; a first valve body surface and a second valve body surface opposite to the first valve body surface, wherein the first valve body surface and the second valve body surface extend from an outer surface of the valve body to the inner passage and further include a step portion as a transition portion so that the first valve body surface is not continuously flat from the outer surface to the inner passage; and a valve body cavity extending about the longitudinal axis, wherein the valve body cavity is positioned between the interior passage and the exterior surface; a valve seal comprising a first seal surface and a second seal surface opposite the first seal surface, wherein the first seal surface abuts at least a portion of the passage surface, wherein a portion of the valve seal extends from the interior passage around the second passage opening and into at least a portion of the valve body cavity, and wherein the valve seal extends from the interior passage to and over the first passage opening; and a valve stem extending through the internal passage, wherein the valve stem includes an outer stem surface and an inner stem surface opposite the outer stem surface, wherein a portion of the second surface of the valve seal operatively engages a portion of the outer stem surface, A resilient member is disposed on a portion of the valve body, positioned adjacent the first passage opening, and circumscribing the longitudinal axis, wherein the portion of the valve seal extending over the first passage opening is configured to operatively engage a portion of the resilient member.

2. The valve of claim 1, wherein the valve seal includes a valve seal second end portion, and wherein the valve seal second end portion is substantially surrounded by the valve body cavity. 3 . The valve of claim 1 , wherein the valve body cavity extends from the second valve body surface toward the first valve body surface.

4. The valve of claim 1, wherein the valve body cavity extends from the interior passage of the valve body toward the exterior surface of the valve body.

5. A pressurizable container for dispensing a product, the pressurizable container comprising: container; The valve of claim 1, connected to the container, The valve seal of the valve comprises a first seal portion and a second seal portion.

6. The pressurizable container of claim 5, comprising a propellant disposed within the container.

7. The pressurizable container of claim 5, wherein the first seal portion has a variable thickness.

8. The pressurizable container of claim 5, wherein the first seal portion includes an upper portion having a first thickness and a lower portion having a second thickness, and wherein the second thickness is greater than the first thickness.

9. The pressurizable container of claim 5, wherein the valve stem includes an orifice extending from the outer stem surface to the inner stem surface.

10. The pressurizable container of claim 9, wherein the inner stem surface defines a channel, wherein the channel is in fluid communication with the orifice.

11. A pressurizable container according to claim 10, wherein the first sealing member portion includes a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion opposite to the first engaging portion and a non-engaging portion positioned between the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion, wherein the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion are configured to operatively engage the outer rod surface, and wherein a gap is formed between the non-engaging portion and the outer rod surface.

12. The pressurizable container of claim 11, wherein the orifice is positioned between the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion.

Images