nebulizer

Abstract

A nebulizer (1) for nebulizing a liquid (2) from a container (3) is presented. The nebulizer comprises a fluid pump (5) for drawing a dose of the liquid from the container and pressurizing the respective dose for nebulization. The nebulizer additionally comprises an air pump (30) with a piston / cylinder arrangement (31, 32) for pumping air into the container to pressurize the liquid in the container, thereby assisting in drawing the liquid from the container.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on July 23, 2018, with application number 201880048117.3 and invention title "Sprayer".

[0002] This invention relates to a sprayer.

[0003] WO 2009 / 047173 A2 discloses a sprayer for atomizing liquids. A container can be inserted into the sprayer. The container includes a rigid outer sleeve and a bag containing multiple doses of liquid. The container or its sleeve is vented so that the bag can collapse when the liquid is withdrawn.

[0004] The container may be constructed as described in WO 96 / 06011 A1 or WO 00 / 49988 A2.

[0005] WO 2010 / 094305 A1 discloses a sprayer for atomizing liquids. A container can be inserted into the sprayer. The container includes a rigid outer sleeve and a collapsible bag containing multiple doses of liquid. To avoid the formation of any unwanted vapors or bubbles in the bag when liquid is withdrawn from it, the container can be pressurized by air pressure in the sleeve to promote bag collapse and liquid withdrawal. However, even with an additional valve between the container and the pressure generator or fluid pump of the sprayer, this pressurization can still lead to accidental leakage of the container when not in use. Furthermore, the pressurization can vary significantly due to the significant increase in gas volume during liquid withdrawal, resulting in significant variations in the separately withdrawn liquid doses.

[0006] WO 2016 / 012102 A1 discloses a sprayer for atomizing liquids. The container holds multiple doses of liquid and can be inserted into the sprayer. The container includes a rigid outer sleeve and a collapsible bag or a movable fluid piston. The sprayer also includes mechanisms for assisting in collapsing the bag or moving the fluid piston or pressurizing the liquid in the container, wherein the liquid is pressurized essentially only during extraction by applying air pressure. According to one embodiment, the container includes a pump piston for pressurizing air and a return spring for returning the pump piston, the pump piston being actuated by an actuating element formed by a housing component of the sprayer. According to another embodiment, the container includes a sleeve forming a cylinder into which the pump piston engages, wherein the pump piston is connected to the housing component of the sprayer. Special adjustments are required for known containers, and insertion of the container can be problematic. Furthermore, when the liquid volume is reduced, the air pressure and the resulting pressurization can change significantly due to the significant increase in air volume.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a sprayer that facilitates the extraction / inhalation of liquid from a container while preventing or minimizing unwanted leakage during periods of non-use, and / or in which the extracted liquid dose can be kept highly constant (specifically, to facilitate continuous / repeated extraction of the dose from the container) and / or to support accurate metering, and / or in which the formation or development of any bubbles in the liquid can be prevented, and / or in which simple construction is possible and / or known containers can be used.

[0008] The above objective is achieved by the sprayer.

[0009] The present invention relates to a sprayer for atomizing a liquid (preferably a liquid agent) from a preferably replaceable container, the container containing the liquid in a variable or collapsible / compressible volume, said volume being formed or limited in particular by a collapsible bag or a movable fluid piston or any other structure such as a collapsible / compressible container made of anti-diffusion foil.

[0010] Preferably, the sprayer includes a housing component that can be removed or opened to insert or replace a container. Preferably, the sprayer includes a fluid pump or pressure generator to draw liquid (especially a dose of liquid) from the container and / or dispense a dose of liquid. Specifically, the container holds multiple doses of liquid.

[0011] According to the invention, the sprayer includes an air pump associated with the container for pressurizing the liquid in the container to aid in the extraction of a dose of liquid from the container, wherein the air pump includes or forms a piston / cylinder device, specifically for temporarily pumping air into the container to aid in the extraction of a dose of liquid from the container. This allows for a very simple construction of the air pump, and therefore the sprayer. Furthermore, this allows the air pump to be constructed separately from the container.

[0012] Preferably, in particular, a pressure pulse provided or generated by a sprayer or air pump acts on the liquid in a variable volume or container during sprayer tensioning and / or during operation. This helps to extract a dose of liquid from the container without forming or developing any bubbles within the liquid / container.

[0013] Preferably, the container comprises an inner container (which is flexible / compressible / collapseable, preferably in the form of a collapseable bag, foil structure, etc.) and a more rigid surrounding structure, such as a sleeve. Alternatively, the container may comprise a rigid structure or sleeve and a fluid piston movable within the sleeve to form a variable or collapseable / compressible volume for the liquid. Preferably, the air pump is pneumatically connected to the sleeve and optionally pneumatically connected to the space between the sleeve and the inner container / bag.

[0014] Preferably, the air pump only temporarily pressurizes the container and / or the liquid within it, especially only when the atomizer is flipped up, tensioned, or loaded (i.e., in preparation for atomizing a certain dose of liquid) and / or only when liquid is withdrawn from the container. Therefore, any unwanted leakage of liquid from the container can be prevented or at least minimized, and / or any (additional) valves between the container and the fluid pump or pressure generator of the atomizer can be avoided. This allows for a simple design.

[0015] Furthermore, temporary pressurization of the liquid in the container can prevent the formation or development of any bubbles within the liquid / container. This supports accurate metering and / or allows for minimizing or reducing the total volume of liquid initially supplied to the container.

[0016] Preferably, the sprayer or air pump includes a pump piston driven by a container to pump air into the container and / or pressurize liquid in the container. This allows for a very simple structure and / or the use of known containers.

[0017] Preferably, the pump piston mates with a housing component of the sprayer, or a cylinder or insert associated with or held by the housing component. This allows for a very simple structure and requires only minor modifications to known sprayers.

[0018] Preferably, the air pump is arranged in, fastened to, or formed by the housing component of the sprayer, wherein the housing component can be removed or opened to insert or replace the container.

[0019] Preferably, the container can be moved relative to the air pump during tensioning, lifting, or loading of the sprayer, or during the extraction of a dose of liquid from the container, and / or during the atomization or dispensing of a dose of liquid. This relative container movement is preferably used to actuate the air pump and / or only for temporarily pressurizing the liquid in the container and / or only for temporarily connecting the air pump to the container (preferably, the air pump is not connected to the container when the sprayer is not tensioned or loaded). This allows for a very simple and reliable design.

[0020] Preferably, the air pump is fluidly connected to the bottom or axial end of the container, preferably opposite the container's outlet and / or connected to the bottom or axial end of the container via a vent hole. This allows for a very simple structure or integration within the known container.

[0021] According to an alternative embodiment, the container may form or include a pump piston of an air pump to pump air into the container and / or pressurize the liquid in the container to help extract a certain dose of the liquid from the container. This allows for a very simple structure.

[0022] According to another aspect of the invention, the atomizer or air pump preferably includes a valve for controlling or limiting air pressure and / or preventing any negative pressure in the air pump. Preferably, the valve limits or controls the air pressure acting on the container / liquid, such that the pressurization of the liquid becomes independent of the volume of liquid in the container (the container's fill level). This supports or allows for accurate liquid metering. If the valve (the same valve or a separate valve) prevents any negative pressure from occurring within the air pump, particularly by opening the corresponding vent passage or inlet to the air pump, negative forces detrimental to the tensioning motion for atomizing the fluid are avoided. Therefore, accurate atomization is ensured or supported.

[0023] According to another independent aspect of the invention, the sprayer (especially the air pump) includes a sealing device acting between the pump piston and the cylinder, wherein the sealing effect of the sealing device depends on the direction of movement of the pump piston relative to the container.

[0024] Preferably, the sealing device is adapted to apply (variable) force / pressure to the seal between the pump piston and the cylinder, and / or variable friction between the pump piston and the cylinder, particularly wherein the level of force / pressure / friction depends on the direction of movement of the pump piston relative to the cylinder.

[0025] Preferably, the force / pressure / friction between the pump piston and the cylinder is increased during the process of the sealing device drawing a certain amount of liquid from the container, and the force / pressure / friction between the pump piston and the cylinder is decreased when the liquid is pressurized for atomization.

[0026] In this way, the sealing device includes / causes a (variable) sealing effect, preferably wherein the sealing effect depends on the direction of movement of the pump piston relative to the cylinder.

[0027] Most preferably, during the tensioning / lifting / loading of the sprayer, the cylinder seal pump piston is resisted only by means of a sealing device or its seal.

[0028] Due to the sealing device, i.e., the variable sealing effect, the influence of the air pump on the dispensing / atomization process can be reduced / minimized. Specifically, during the dispensing / atomization process, the container can move with less frictional resistance.

[0029] According to another independent aspect of the invention, the sprayer includes an indicator device for counting or indicating the number of uses performed or still possible by the container, wherein the indicator device includes an indicator element and an actuator for actuating and / or preferably directly and progressively moving the indicator element, and wherein the indicator element is rotatably and preferably inseparably connected to the container or its sleeve, and wherein the actuator is rigidly connected to the housing portion.

[0030] Preferably, the indicator device is integrated into and / or actuated together with the air pump. Most preferably, the indicator element includes or forms the pump piston of the air pump. This allows for a simple construction. Furthermore, only a portion of the indicator device, particularly only the indicator element, needs to be replaced with the used / empty container. In other words, certain parts of the indicator device, particularly its actuator, can be reused, for example, with a new container. This reduces the number of parts to be discarded.

[0031] Other advantages, features, characteristics, and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-section of a sprayer in a non-tensioned state according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-section of a sprayer in a tensioned state, and... Figure 1 Compared to rotating 90°;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-section of a first embodiment of a container for a sprayer;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-section of a second embodiment of a container for a sprayer;

[0036] Figure 5 Is Figure 1 A schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer with a piston / cylinder device in a non-tensioned state;

[0037] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The enlarged view shows the preferred structure of the valve;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer in a non-tensioned state according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8 It is similar to Figure 7 However, this is a schematic cross-section of the lower part of the sprayer when it is under tension;

[0040] Figure 9 It is similar to Figure 7 A schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer in a non-tensioned state but with a modification valve;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-section of a third embodiment of the container according to the present invention;

[0042] Figure 11This is a schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer with a container in a non-tensioned state according to the third embodiment;

[0043] Figure 12 It is similar to Figure 11 However, the schematic cross-section of the lower part of the sprayer and the container under tension;

[0044] Figure 13 It is a graph of pressure change as a function of actuation;

[0045] Figure 14 This is another graph showing the pressure change as a function of actuation;

[0046] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer in delivery according to another embodiment;

[0047] Figure 16 It is based on Figure 15 A schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer in a tensioned state;

[0048] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0049] Figure 18 It is based on Figure 15 A schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer in a non-tensioned state;

[0050] Figure 19 This is a graph showing pressure variation as a function of the container's axial position;

[0051] Figure 20 This is a schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer in a tensioned state according to another embodiment;

[0052] Figure 21 It is shown Figure 20 A close-up view of a sprayer in delivery condition;

[0053] Figure 22 It is shown Figure 20 A magnified view of a sprayer under tension;

[0054] Figure 23 It is similar to Figure 20 A schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer in a tensioned state but with a modified container;

[0055] Figure 24 It is based on Figure 20 A perspective view of the sprayer, showing the portion in its untensioned state;

[0056] Figure 25 It is based on Figure 20A schematic cross-section of the sprayer, partially shown, illustrates the blocking device for the blocking indicator mechanism; and

[0057] Figure 26 It is based on Figure 25 The portion of the sprayer in a blocked state is shown as a schematic cross-section.

[0058] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used for the same or similar parts, preferably producing corresponding or comparable characteristics and advantages, even without repeating the relevant descriptions.

[0059] Figure 1 and 2 A sprayer 1 according to the invention is shown, the sprayer being used to atomize liquid 2, especially highly efficient pharmaceutical compositions, agents, etc., in a non-tensioned state ( Figure 1 ) and in a tensioned or stretched state ( Figure 2 (Illustrated schematically.) The sprayer 1 is specifically configured as a portable inhaler and is preferably operated mechanically and / or without propellant.

[0060] When liquid 2, preferably the pharmaceutical composition, is atomized, aerosol 14 is formed or dispensed. Figure 1 It can be inhaled or breathed by the user. Inhalation is usually performed at least once a day, or more specifically, several times a day, preferably at set intervals, depending on the patient's physical discomfort or illness.

[0061] The sprayer 1 is provided with, includes, or is adapted to receive an insertable or replaceable container 3 containing liquid 2. Thus, the container 3 forms a reservoir for the liquid 2 to be atomized.

[0062] Container 3 only Figure 1 and 2 It is shown schematically in the middle and in Figure 3 It is shown in more detail in the cross section.

[0063] Preferably, container 3 contains multiple doses of liquid 2 or active substance, particularly sufficient to provide at least 100 or 150 and / or up to 200 or more dose units or doses, i.e., allowing at least 100 and / or up to 200 sprays or applications. Container 3 preferably contains a volume of about 0.5 to 20 ml.

[0064] Furthermore, the quantity of the dose contained in container 3 and / or the total volume of liquid 2 contained in container 3 may vary depending on liquid 2 or the corresponding drug and / or depending on container 3 and / or depending on the necessary medication, etc.

[0065] Preferably, the sprayer 1 is adapted to atomize a dose of 1 to 80 microliters of liquid 2 during a single actuation / use of the sprayer 1 / and / or a single spray / aerosol delivery / dispensing, even more preferably a dose of 5, 10 or 20 microliters or about 50 microliters.

[0066] Preferably, the container 3 can be replaced or interchanged, wherein the total number of uses of the sprayer 1 and therefore the number of containers 3 that can be used with the same sprayer 1 are preferably limited to, for example, a total of four, five or six containers 3. WO2012 / 162305 A1 further discloses this limitation on the total number of containers 3 that can be used with the same sprayer 1.

[0067] The container 3 is preferably generally cylindrical or cartridge-shaped, and can be inserted into the sprayer 1 once the sprayer 1 is opened, preferably from below, and can be replaced if necessary.

[0068] The container 3 preferably has a rigid structure, and the liquid 2 is held in a variable or collapseable / compressible volume 4, such as in a (flexible) internal container of variable volume, preferably in a collapseable bag in the container 3.

[0069] The sprayer 1 includes a delivery mechanism, preferably a pressure generator or fluid pump 5, for delivering and atomizing liquid 2, particularly at a preset dose and optionally at an adjustable dose. Specifically, the pressure generator or fluid pump 5 preferably draws or aspirates liquid 2, i.e., a certain dose of liquid 2, from the container 3 or its bag / volume 4 when the sprayer 1 is raised, tensioned, or loaded. Then, preferably in a second step after the tensioning or loading process, the drawn liquid 2 or the certain dose of liquid 2 is dispensed (especially pressurized and / or atomized). Specifically, the sprayer 1 includes an energy storage device (preferably a drive spring 7) that is loaded (preferably tensioned) during the loading or tensioning process, and the energy is released during the tensioning or loading process to atomize the liquid 2 or the certain dose of liquid 2 that has been inhaled into the sprayer 1. Therefore, the normal use of the sprayer 1 preferably includes a loading process and a dispensing process.

[0070] The sprayer 1 or pressure generator / fluid pump 5 preferably includes a holder 6 for holding the container 3, a drive spring 7 (shown only partially) associated with the holder 6, and / or a blocking element 8, preferably in the form of a button or having a button for preferably manual actuation or pressing. The blocking element 8 can lock and block the holder 6 and can be manually operated to release the holder 6, thereby allowing the drive spring 7 to extend.

[0071] The sprayer 1 or pressure generator / fluid pump 5 preferably includes delivery elements such as a delivery pipe 9, a check valve 10, a pressure chamber 11 and / or a nozzle 12 for atomizing liquid 2 to enter the mouthpiece 13.

[0072] The fully inserted container 3 is secured or held in the sprayer 1 via the retainer 6, such that the delivery element fluidly connects the container 3 or its bag 4 to the sprayer 1 or the pressure generator / fluid pump 5. Preferably, the delivery tube 9 is inserted into the container 3 and / or bag / volume 4, and preferably the length of the delivery tube 9 varies depending on the embodiment.

[0073] The sprayer 1 or retainer 6 is preferably configured such that the container 3 can be released or replaced.

[0074] When the drive spring 7 is axially tensioned during the tensioning process or during the lifting phase, the retainer 6 with container 3 and the delivery pipe 9 move downwards as shown in the figure, and liquid 2 is drawn from or drawn from container 3 into fluid pump 5 or its pressure chamber 11 through check valve 10. In this state, retainer 6 is held in place by blocking element 8, keeping drive spring 7 compressed. Then, sprayer 1 is in the lifting or tensioned state.

[0075] During the subsequent relaxation period in the dispensing or atomizing process after actuating or pressing the blocking element 8, the liquid 2 in the pressure chamber 11 is placed under pressure (or pressurized) because the delivery tube 9 (whose one-way valve 10 is now closed) moves back into the pressure chamber 11 by the relaxation or force of the drive spring 7, which here moves upward in the figure and now acts as a pressure head or piston. This pressure forces the liquid 2 through the nozzle 12, thus... Figure 1 As shown, it is atomized into aerosol 14 and thus distributed.

[0076] Typically, the sprayer 1 operates on the liquid 2 with a spring pressure of 5 to 300 MPa, preferably 10 to 250 MPa, and most preferably 10 to 50 MPa to atomize the aqueous liquid.

[0077] Preferably, the energy for generating pressure is supplied by the drive spring 7 with an average force in the range of 30 N to 120 N, most preferably from 45 N to 90 N (e.g., 60 N).

[0078] Preferably, the volume of liquid 2 delivered in each stroke is greater than 10, 20 or 30 microliters, and more preferably about 40 or 50 microliters.

[0079] Liquid 2 is converted into aerosol 14 or atomized as an aerosol, the aerosol droplets having an aerodynamic diameter of up to 20 micrometers, preferably 3 to 10 micrometers (if the sprayer 1 is an inhaler, most particles are less than 5 micrometers). Preferably, the resulting spray has an angle of 20° to 160°, preferably 80° to 100°. These values ​​are also applied as particularly preferred values ​​to the sprayer 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0080] A user or patient (not shown) may inhale aerosol 14, preferably while air is drawn into mouthpiece 13 through at least one selected air supply opening 15.

[0081] The sprayer 1 preferably includes a housing 19 and / or an (upper) housing component 16, and optionally includes components preferably rotatable relative to it. Figure 2 The bias or internal component 17 and / or having an upper part 17A and a lower part 17B ( Figure 1 ).

[0082] The sprayer 1 or housing 19 preferably includes a (lower) housing component 18. This component 18 is particularly manually operable and / or releasably secured, especially preferably assembled or held on the inner component 17 by means of a retaining element 17C.

[0083] Preferably, housing components 16 and 18 and / or other parts form the housing 19 of the sprayer 1.

[0084] For insertion and / or replacement of container 3, preferably housing 19 can be opened and / or housing component 18 can be removed from sprayer 1, internal component 17 or housing 19.

[0085] Typically and preferably, container 3 can be inserted before housing 19 is closed and / or before housing component 18 is connected to housing 19. When housing component 18 is (fully) connected to housing 19 and / or sprayer 1 and / or when housing 19 / sprayer 1 is (fully) closed, container 3 can be automatically or simultaneously inserted, opened, and / or fluidly connected to delivery mechanism or fluid pump 5. Preferably, container 3 is open or fluidly connected when sprayer 1 is first tensioned with the current container 3.

[0086] Preferably, the sprayer 1 or drive spring 7 can be manually activated, tensioned, or loaded, especially by actuation or rotation of the actuating member, preferably by rotating the housing component 18 or any other component.

[0087] The actuating member, preferably housing member 18, can be actuated to rotate relative to the upper housing member 16, thereby driving the upper housing member or the internal member 17. The internal member 17 acts on a gear or transmission to convert rotation into axial motion. As a result, the drive spring 7 is tensioned axially by means of a gear or transmission (not shown) formed between the internal member 17 (especially its upper portion 17A) and the retainer 6 and acting on the retainer 6. During tensioning, the container 3 and the retainer 6 move axially downwards until the container 3 occupies the (end) position, such as... Figure 2As shown in the diagram. In this activated or tensioned state, the drive spring 7 is in a tensioned state and can be locked or held in place by the blocking element 8. During the atomization process, the container 3 is moved back to its initial position by the force of the drive spring 7. Figure 1 (The non-tensioned position or state shown). Therefore, container 3 performs lifting or stroke movement during the tensioning process and the atomization process.

[0088] The housing component 18 preferably forms a cap-shaped lower housing component and / or is fitted around or above or covers the lower free end of the container 3. As the drive spring 7 is tensioned, the end of the container 3 or the base 22 (further) moves into or toward its end face of the housing component 18.

[0089] Some containers 3 (especially containers 3 with a collapseable bag / volume 4 for containing liquid 2) (such as...) Figure 3 As shown in the diagram, it needs to be inflated to compensate for the pressure in order to extract liquid 2 from container 3.

[0090] Preferably, the sprayer 1 includes an inflation device for inflating the container 3, which is preferably sealed in the delivery condition.

[0091] An optional inflation device (such as a piercing element) arranged in the housing component 18 can contact the base 22 or vent 23 of the container 3 and open or pierce the container 3 or its seals or foils 26 upon first contact with the inflation device to allow air to enter or inflate.

[0092] Specifically, Figure 5 by Figure 1 A partially enlarged view shows the air pump 30 in the lower part or housing component 18 of the sprayer 1, with the inflation device 18A schematically indicated. The inflation device 18A includes or is formed of a piercing element or needle (especially a hollow needle and / or a needle with a tapered and / or angled and / or sharp tip, etc.) such that the inflation device 18A can easily open or pierce the seal / foil 26 and / or the vent 23.

[0093] When liquid 2 is drawn from container 3 during the tensioning of sprayer 1, vent 23 allows pressure compensation inside container 3.

[0094] Specifically, such as Figure 3 As shown, container 3 includes a rigid sleeve 20, a liquid outlet or head 21, and / or a base 22 opposite to the outlet / head 21. Preferably, container 3, sleeve 20, or base 22 is provided with a vent opening or hole 23 that opens before or during first use.

[0095] Preferably, in the first embodiment, in addition to the outer sleeve, the container 3 also preferably includes an inner metal sleeve 20, preferably a rigid container or outer shell 24. The outer shell 24 surrounds or encloses the bag / variable volume 4.

[0096] The outer casing 24 is preferably made of plastic and / or extends upward to the outlet or head 21.

[0097] Preferably, the housing 24 is rigidly secured or received within the sleeve 20. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0098] The bag / volume 4 is preferably received within the housing 24 such that when the liquid 2 is extracted, the bag / volume can collapse within the housing 24. Figure 3 The partial collapse bag / volume 4 is shown in a schematic cross-section.

[0099] Container 3 or bag / volume 4 is preferably closed by closure 25, such as Figure 3 As illustrated schematically. It must be noted that container 3 or closure 25 is... Figure 3 The middle is still closed, especially since the delivery element or tube 9 has not been inserted.

[0100] also, Figure 3 The diagram shows a container 3 with the vent still closed. Specifically, a seal 26, such as a foil, covers or seals the base 22 or vent 23 of the container 3 or its sleeve 20. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0101] When the vent (especially seal 26) is open, air or any other gas can flow into the sleeve 20 through the vent 23 and into the housing 24 through the vent opening 27, allowing pressure equalization to be performed or achieved. Specifically, negative pressure can be avoided or at least compensated when liquid 2 is extracted and thus the bag / volume 4 collapses. However, the throttling effect of the vent 23 and the vent opening 27 may have different effects on the temporary pressure difference that occurs during liquid extraction, which may result in some changes in the volume of the extracted dose and / or even the formation or growth of any bubbles in liquid 2 / bag / volume 4. As described in detail later, the present invention can minimize or avoid any such effects by temporarily pressurizing liquid 2 and / or temporarily pumping gas into container 3.

[0102] In addition, container 3 can also be constructed as described in WO 2009 / 115200 A1.

[0103] Figure 4 A second embodiment of container 3 is shown in schematic cross-section. Here, the variable or collapsible / compressible volume 4 for liquid 2 is preferably formed or limited by an (outer) sleeve 20 and a movable element or piston (hereinafter referred to as fluid piston 28).

[0104] Preferably, the fluid piston 28 is axially movable and / or within the container 3 or sleeve 20 and / or relative to the container or sleeve.

[0105] Preferably, the container 3 is provided with a seal 29 acting between the fluid piston 28 and the sleeve 20. Specifically, the seal 29 is formed as a ring or lip and / or held by the fluid piston 28. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0106] Figure 4 The container 3 is shown in a delivery state and / or a fully filled state, with the fluid piston 28 in its initial position before any liquid 2 is drawn from the container 3. Specifically, the initial position is adjacent to or located at the base 22 or axial end of the container 3 or sleeve 20 opposite the outlet or head 21. Thus, the maximum filling capacity of the container 3 can be achieved.

[0107] Here, the piston 28 is preferably accessible from the outside, in particular making it possible to omit the vent 23 and vent opening 27. However, other solutions are also possible, such as where the container 3 is axially closed / sealed, in particular making the container 3 require inflation to compensate for pressure in order to extract the liquid 2 from the container 3. Subsequently, especially referring to Figures 15 to 24 Such an implementation scheme will be described.

[0108] When liquid 2 is extracted, piston 28 moves axially toward outlet or head 21, where... Figure 4 Move upwards in the representation.

[0109] according to Figure 4 The container 3 of the embodiment shown preferably further includes at least a substantially cylindrical form and / or conforms to the embodiment. Figure 3 The implementation scheme includes a container similar to the sleeve 20, head 21, and / or closure 25.

[0110] Preferably, both types or implementations of container 3 can be used in Figure 1 and 2 In the sprayer 1 shown.

[0111] The sprayer 1 preferably includes an air pump 30, which is particularly used to temporarily pressurize the liquid 2 in the container 3, especially the bag / variable volume 4 in the container 3, preferably to help collapse / compress the bag / volume 4 and / or facilitate the extraction or aspiration of the liquid 2 from the container 3.

[0112] In a first embodiment of the sprayer 1, the air pump 30 is preferably formed separately from the container 3.

[0113] The air pump 30 is preferably, especially only temporarily, connected to the container 3 or its sleeve 20 or base 22 or vent 23.

[0114] The air pump 30 is preferably arranged opposite the liquid outlet or head 21 of the fluid pump 5 and / or container 3.

[0115] The air pump 30 is preferably arranged or positioned in or within the housing component 18, and / or adjacent to the base 22 of the container 3.

[0116] Preferably, the air pump 30 includes a pump piston 31 and a cylinder 32 that cooperates with the pump piston 31. Therefore, the air pump 30 includes or forms a piston / cylinder assembly to pressurize the liquid 2 in the container 3 and / or pump air into the container 3.

[0117] Preferably, the pump piston 31 is cup-shaped.

[0118] Alternatively, a seal may be provided between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32. For example, a sealing element such as an O-ring may be used. Alternatively or additionally, the inner surface of the cylinder 32 and / or the outer surface of the pump piston 31 may be provided with a lubricant, such as silicone resin, grease, etc., to reduce friction and / or for sealing.

[0119] The cylinder 32 may be formed by a housing component 18 or attached to the sprayer 1, housing 19 or (most preferably) housing component 18 or an element or insert 33 attached therein.

[0120] In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 33 is fixed to the housing component 18 by press-fitting, shape-fitting, or by gluing, welding, etc.

[0121] The air pump 30 or pump piston 31 preferably includes a port 34 and / or a seal 35 to pneumatically connect the air pump 30 to the container 3 or its base 22 or vent 23.

[0122] Preferably, the seal 35 is arranged at or around the port 34 or forms the port 34 and / or is held by the pump piston 31.

[0123] Preferably, the seal 35 forms an annular lip and / or a conical connection portion to abut against the container base 22 and / or seal around the vent 23 when the container 3 is pneumatically connected to the air pump 30, and vice versa. In this configuration, the port 34 or the seal 35 preferably abuts against the container base 22.

[0124] Preferably, the air pump 30, pump piston 31, port 34 and / or seal 35 are arranged in the center and / or below the container 3, base 22 or vent 23, and / or aligned with the container 3 or its travel axis.

[0125] The air pump 30 preferably includes a return spring 36 to return or bias the pump piston 31 to its original position. Figure 1The initial position is shown in the diagram. The pump piston 31 is in this initial or upper position, especially when the sprayer 1 is not in use or not tensioned.

[0126] Preferably, the air pump 30 or the insert 33 includes, for example, Figure 5 The stop 33A indicated in the middle is used to limit the return stroke of the pump piston 31 and / or limit the initial or upper position of the pump piston 31.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the return spring 36 acts between the pump piston 31 and the housing component 18 or the insert 33.

[0128] Preferably, the return spring 36 is formed by a helical spring and / or extends in the axial direction or in the direction of the stroke movement of the container 3 and / or is arranged in the center of the sprayer 1, below the container 3 and / or in the air pump 30.

[0129] Preferably, the pump piston 31 includes a support member 37, such as a recess or protrusion, for retaining the relevant end of the return spring 36.

[0130] Preferably, the insert 33 or housing component 18 includes a support component 38, such as a recess or protrusion, for retaining the relevant end of the return spring 36.

[0131] The air pump 30 preferably includes a pump chamber 39 formed between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 / insertion 33. Specifically, the volume of the pump chamber 39 is defined or changed by the position or movement of the pump piston 31.

[0132] Figure 2 The sprayer 1 is shown in a tensioned state, with the pump piston 31 in the actuated or depressed position. In this position, the pump piston has (further) moved into the cylinder 32 or insert 33 or housing component 18, and the air contained in the pump chamber 39 has been compressed and / or delivered to the container 3.

[0133] The air pump 30 preferably operates mechanically (only).

[0134] Preferably, the air pump 30 is arranged in the center of the sprayer 1 and / or below the container 3, and / or axially aligned with the sprayer 1 and / or the container 3.

[0135] The air pump 30 or pump piston 31 is preferably actuated by the movement of the container 3 within the sprayer 1 and / or by the stroke movement or tension movement of the container 3.

[0136] Specifically, when the sprayer 1 or container 3 is in a non-tensioned state or after atomizing a certain dose, the container 3 or its base 22 is spaced apart from the air pump 30, pump piston 31, port 34 or seal 35.

[0137] Therefore, the air pump 30 is temporarily opened and / or pneumatically disconnected from the container 3, and vice versa. Specifically, the inflation or vent 23 is open or closed in the untensioned state, allowing free compensation between the pressure inside the container sleeve 20 and the external atmosphere.

[0138] Preferably, the stroke-type or tension-type movement of the container 3 controls the opening or filling of the air pump 30.

[0139] When the sprayer 1 is tensioned, the container 3 moves toward and / or relative to the air pump 30 or its pump piston 31. After a first (shorter) portion of the tensioning movement, the container 3 or its base 22 (pneumatically) connects to the air pump 30 or its pump piston 31 or port 34 / seal 35. During another or a second (larger) portion of the tensioning movement, the air pump 30 or pump piston 31 is actuated or depressurized, thereby generating air pressure that can act directly (preferably via port 34 / seal 35 and vent 23) on the liquid 2 in the container 3, or more precisely, on the bag 4 (i.e., variable volume) in the container 3. In other words, the air pump 30 pumps air into the space between the bag 4 and the sleeve 20 / outer shell 24.

[0140] Preferably, the air pump 30 includes a diameter greater than 0.1 cm. 3 Especially those larger than 0.5 cm 3 And more preferably greater than 1.0 cm 3 The total volume and / or pump volume. Specifically, the pump volume is between 1 and 4 cm³. 3 between.

[0141] Preferably, the pump volume of the air pump 30 (i.e., the volume difference between the uncompressed and compressed states of the air pump 30 and / or the minimum air volume pumped into the container 3 by the air pump 30 during each actuation) is greater than 3%, especially greater than 5%, most preferably greater than 8%, and / or less than 50%, preferably less than 40%, and most preferably less than 30% of the air volume of the container 3 after the maximum dose of liquid 2 or all of liquid 2 has been extracted.

[0142] Preferably, the air pump 30 provides a defined or limited pressure increase in the container 3 (especially in the space between the inner container and the sleeve 20 and / or the outer shell 24) (depending on the maximum air pressure provided by the air pump 30), or especially only after tensioning the sprayer 1, acting on the liquid 2 / bag / volume 4 at a pressure greater than 25 hPa, preferably greater than 40 hPa, and most preferably greater than 50 hPa or 100 hPa.

[0143] The aforementioned pressure increase can depend on the collapse / compression state of bag / volume 4. The above values ​​are particularly applicable when bag / volume 4 is fully collapsed / compressed and / or when the maximum extraction dose of liquid 2 is reached.

[0144] During the second part of the tensioning movement of container 3, i.e., during the actuation of air pump 30, the pressure acting on the bag / volume 4 in container 3 increases until a tensioned state or (final) position is reached and the maximum air pressure is achieved. This pressure increase helps or facilitates the extraction or aspiration of liquid 2 from container 3 or its bag / volume 4.

[0145] Preferably, the sprayer 1 or air pump 30 includes at least one venting element or valve 40 to control or limit (maximum) air pressure and / or to inflate the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39 and / or to prevent any negative pressure (negative pressure relative to ambient pressure) from occurring in the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39. However, valve 40 is optional and may be omitted.

[0146] Preferably, during the atomization process, the pressure is automatically reduced again (preferably due to the pump piston 31 moving from its actuated position to its initial position, or due to the expansion of the pump chamber 39 caused by the return spring 36, or due to the disconnection of the air pump 30 or port 34 from the container 3 during the atomization movement of the container 3) and / or preferably even when the pressure is already under tension, the pressure is automatically reduced again (preferably due to the vent and / or valve 40).

[0147] Therefore, the bag 4 or liquid 2 is pressurized only temporarily in the container 3, preferably mainly during tensioning movement and / or preferably mainly during the extraction of a certain dose of liquid 2 from the container 3 or its bag / volume 4.

[0148] After liquid 2 is drawn out or aspirated from container 3 or its bag / volume 4, sprayer 1 is in a tensioned or flipped-up state and / or ready to dispense / atomize.

[0149] In the tensioned or open state, the air pressure, and therefore the pressurization of the liquid 2, decreases and preferably terminates automatically due to, for example, the venting element between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 and / or between the port 34 / seal 35 and the container base 22. To achieve the desired venting, radial clearance can be provided between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 and / or the corresponding venting channel / passage 41 (e.g., in the seal 35 or the valve 40 or the pump piston 31).

[0150] The air pump 30 and the fluid pump 5 preferably operate alternately / pressurize and / or preferably act on different parts of the sprayer 1. Specifically, the air pump 30 is adapted to pressurize the liquid 2 contained in the container 3, while the fluid pump 5 is adapted to pressurize the liquid 2 contained in the pressure chamber 11.

[0151] Most preferably, when the sprayer 1 is tensioned or loaded and / or when a certain dose of liquid 2 is drawn from the container 3, the air pump 30 pressurizes the air in the container 3 and thus the liquid 2, and when a certain dose of liquid 2 is dispensed or atomized, the fluid pump 5 pressurizes the liquid 2 that has been drawn from the container 3 and / or located in the pressure chamber 11.

[0152] Figure 5 by Figure 1 The enlarged view shows the air pump 30 in the lower / housing component 18 of the sprayer 1. Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A magnified view of the area of ​​valve 40.

[0153] In the illustrated embodiment, the air pump 30 or pump piston 31 is preferably provided with a venting channel 41, such as... Figure 5 As shown schematically. However, this venting channel 41 is optional.

[0154] Preferably, the vent passage 41 or any other venting element (such as a selected / preferred radial clearance between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32) forms a throttle valve, the throttle valve being sized such that the flow resistance is high enough to generate sufficiently high air pressure during the tensioning stroke, and low enough so that pressurized air can escape relatively quickly from the pump chamber 39 to the housing 19 and / or the environment in the tensioned state, so that the air pressure drops rapidly in the tensioned state to avoid any unwanted liquid flow in the atomizer 1 in the tensioned state before actuation (actuating the blocking element 8 to initiate atomization). (Refer to the following...) Figures 15 to 20 In another embodiment described, the seal 54 or sealing device 57 acting between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 may (temporarily) provide or open the vent passage 41 between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32.

[0155] After the sprayer 1 is actuated or activated preferably by the actuating or pressing element 8, the pressure generator or fluid pump 5 pressurizes and dispenses the previously extracted dose of liquid 2 as the container 3 moves in the opposite direction and eventually retracts from the air pump 30 and / or pump piston 31 / port 34 / seal 35.

[0156] The return spring 36 and / or any other return mechanism preferably biases or moves the pump piston 31 back to its initial position. This ensures the defined operation of the air pump 30 and / or supports the dispensing stroke, and / or prevents or reduces the impact during the dispensing stroke (i.e., in the...). Figure 2 During the upward movement of the container, any negative force or holding effect acts on container 3.

[0157] The air pump 30 may be provided with or connected to a valve 40, thereby allowing for rapid and / or easy refilling of the air pump 30 and / or preventing any negative pressure from occurring in the air pump 30 (e.g., during the dispensing or actuation stroke of the sprayer 1), thus reliably preventing any negative effects on the air pump 30, such as holding forces acting against the dispensing movement of the container 3.

[0158] exist Figure 5 and 6 Valve 40 is shown in the figure, but it is only optional; that is, valve 40 can be omitted.

[0159] In a preferred embodiment, valve 40 particularly includes valve element 42, which is preferably formed as an integral plastic part.

[0160] Valve 40 or valve element 42 preferably forms or includes an inlet, duckbill valve, or one-way / check valve 43, which opens to avoid or at least minimize the impact during the dispensing stroke (i.e., when the pump piston 31 moves from the pump piston 31). Figure 2 The actuation position shown is moved back. Figure 1 and 5 (As shown in its initial position) Any negative pressure occurs in the air pump 30 or pump chamber 39.

[0161] Preferably, valve 40 or valve element 42 or intake valve 43 includes—especially two—flexible portions 42A, such as Figure 6 As shown schematically in the diagram.

[0162] Preferably, portion 42 has two flat regions, the flat regions being in Figure 6 The closed position shown can be duckbill shaped, in which the free ends of portions 42A contact each other to close valve 43.

[0163] However, other construction solutions are also possible, especially where valve 40, valve element 42, and / or intake valve 43 are dome-shaped and / or curved and / or at least substantially hemispherical, as will be referred to Figure 9 As described.

[0164] Valves 40 / 43, especially portion 42A, are preferably opened very easily by bending against each other (i.e., when the pressure difference between ambient pressure and the pressure in pump chamber 39 is very low) to allow ambient air to flow into pump chamber 39 in order to prevent any negative pressure from occurring in pump chamber 39. In other words, in this embodiment, valve 40, especially portion 42A, preferably forms an intake valve or check valve 43.

[0165] Preferably, valves 40 / 43, especially portion 42A, can preferably return to their closed position automatically due to restoring force and / or due to a low pressure differential caused by the pressure in pump chamber 39 being higher than the ambient pressure.

[0166] During the atomization stroke, the return spring 36 moves the pump piston 31 from the actuated position back to its initial position. During this return stroke, the air pump 30 or the pump piston 31 keeps the seal 35 in contact with the container base 22 until the initial position and / or the stop 33A is reached. During this return movement, the pump chamber 39 expands and generates a significant negative pressure, making inflation advantageous. Specifically, the inflation or intake valve 43 prevents any (associated) negative pressure from occurring during this return stroke or movement.

[0167] Valve 40 or inlet / check valve 43 is preferably connected to the atmosphere via an opening 45 formed in a selected insert 33, and / or via a channel 46 formed in a housing component 18 and may lead to the bottom or the environment.

[0168] Alternatively or otherwise, channel 47 can be as follows Figure 5 The dashed lines in the diagram schematically show the formation in the housing component 18 and / or in the insert 33 to fluidly connect the interior of the sprayer 1 or its housing 19 to the valve 40 or the near / check valve 43 to allow the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39 to be vented or inflated, i.e., to allow (only) air to flow into the pump chamber 39.

[0169] Another valve, such as valve 40, valve element 42, sprayer 1, or air pump 30, preferably includes or forms a control valve 44 to control or limit the pressure acting on the liquid in container 3 and / or supplied or reached by air pump 30.

[0170] In the illustrated embodiment, the control valve 44 is preferably formed in an umbrella shape and / or covers one or more outlet openings 48, such as Figure 6 As shown schematically in the diagram.

[0171] Preferably, the control valve 44 opens when a predetermined or desired air pressure is reached in the air pump 30 or pump chamber 39. Thus, a defined or maximum air pressure is provided to pressurize the liquid 2 in the container 3.

[0172] The control valve 44 preferably opens and closes automatically, particularly in response to the pressure difference between the environment and the pump chamber 39, allowing ambient air (or air inside the sprayer 1 at ambient pressure) to flow into the pump chamber 39, preferably with very low or irrelevant flow resistance. In the opposite flow direction, the control valve 44 preferably closes and / or prevents any flow. However, the control valve 44 may also allow a defined vent flow in this opposite direction to form a vent and / or allow, for example, the vent passage 41 to be omitted.

[0173] Preferably controlling or limiting the air pressure provided by the air pump 30 to the maximum air pressure (i.e., the maximum value above the ambient air pressure) has the advantage that the liquid 2 in the container 3 is pressurized at the desired and / or predetermined pressure independently of the filling level of the container 3 (i.e., independent of the air volume of the container 3).

[0174] In the illustrated embodiment, valve 40, intake / check valve 43, and / or control valve 44 are preferably located in or at the pump chamber 39 or support member 38. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0175] Preferably, valve 40 or its valve element 42 forms both an intake / check valve 43 and a control valve 44 to simplify the construction.

[0176] Most preferably, valve 40, intake / check valve 43 and control valve 44 are integrally and / or integrally formed.

[0177] Seal 35 may also form valve 40, air intake / check valve 43 and / or control valve 44, or vice versa.

[0178] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the selected inflation device 18A is preferably arranged in or near the port 34 and / or the seal 35, and / or in or near the pump piston 31 and / or the support member 37. Specifically, the inflation device 18A or its needle is held by radial ribs, inserts that mate with or connect to the pump piston 31, the support member 37, etc.

[0179] In the illustrated embodiment, the inflation device 18A is preferably located at or inside the port 34, seal 35, and / or support member 37, but allows sufficient or unrestricted airflow. For this purpose, only a small number of radial ribs may be provided, and / or the inflation device 18A or its needle may be hollow.

[0180] As already mentioned, such as Figure 3 The container 3 shown or as Figure 4 The container 3 shown can be used with Figure 1 and 2 Use it together with the sprayer 1 shown. If using Figure 4 The container 3 shown according to the second embodiment should have its seal 35 of the air pump 30 adjusted so that it abuts against the end or base 22 of the container 3, rather than within the opening of the fluid piston 28.

[0181] Specifically, container 3 may include modification end 49, here in Figure 4 The image shows additional parts, rings, sleeves, etc., attached to the sleeve 20. This modified end 49 can form the annular end face or base 22 of the container 3, and the seal 35 can mate with the annular end face or base.

[0182] However, other construction solutions are possible. For example, container 3 can be provided with a seal 35 instead of air pump 30 or pump piston 31.

[0183] Alternatively, the pump piston 31 may be directly or connectably connected to the container 3 or its base 22. In this case, similar to the second embodiment described below, the return spring 36 may be omitted.

[0184] In the following description, a second embodiment of the sprayer 1 will be described with reference to additional figures, wherein the description will focus on the differences as well as new aspects and features, such that the previous description should be applied by way of addition or similar means, even without repetition.

[0185] Figure 7 The lower part of a second embodiment of a sprayer 1 is shown, the sprayer having a container 3 in an unstressed state according to the second embodiment (i.e., in a similar manner to...). Figure 5 However, it has an enlarged view showing the modified air pump 30. Figure 8 A sprayer 1 and a container 3, according to a second embodiment, are shown in a similar cross-section but under tension.

[0186] Sprayer 1 according to the second embodiment is used Figure 4 The container 3 shown is based on the second embodiment.

[0187] In the second embodiment, container 3, particularly its modified end 49, forms or serves as a pump piston 31. Container 3 cooperates with cylinder 32, preferably formed by housing component 18 or insert 33, to form a piston / cylinder device for pressurizing liquid 2 in container 3 and / or for pumping air into container 3 to help extract a certain amount of liquid 2 from container 3.

[0188] Here, the pump chamber 39 is formed between the container 3 or its base 22 and the cylinder 32 / insertion 33.

[0189] The container 3 or its modified end 49 can preferably move or be guided within the cylinder 32 with very little friction and / or (small) radial clearance, thereby forming the desired venting element and avoiding the selected limited venting channel 41.

[0190] In the second embodiment, the air pump 30 acts directly on the fluid piston 28 to pressurize the liquid 2 in the variable volume 4 of the container 3.

[0191] In the second embodiment, valve 40 is preferably configured to be similar to and / or provide the same functionality as in the first embodiment.

[0192] In the second embodiment, the inflation channel 47 is preferably formed in the insert 33.

[0193] The container 3 or fluid piston 28 preferably includes a recess 28A such that when the container 3 is fully filled (i.e., when the fluid piston 28 is at its first / lower axial (end) position or adjacent to the container base 22), the valve 40 arranged at the bottom of the pump chamber 39 or on the base can protrude into the recess 28A in a tensioned state.

[0194] Typically, the diameter of the pump chamber 39 or cylinder 32 / pump piston 31 is preferably larger than the diameter of the bag / volume 4 in the container 3 to ensure a high degree of pressure increase / amplification and / or a high pump volume.

[0195] When a certain amount of liquid 2 is drawn from container 3, the present invention or the air pump 30 prevents any or at least any associated negative pressure from occurring in the liquid 2 in container 3. Therefore, it can be ensured that the same volume is always drawn from container 3.

[0196] Specifically, the container 3 shown or proposed allows for adjustment of the variable or collapsible / compressible volume 4 of the liquid 2 in response to any pressure difference, particularly any negative pressure acting on the liquid 2 within the container 3 or volume 4 (hereby via a collapse bag or moving fluid piston 28). To adjust the volume 4, particularly for the collapse bag or moving fluid piston 28, a certain pressure difference must be applied to overcome any inertia and / or friction or adhesion. Preferably, the variable volume 4 is pressurized temporarily or only briefly by means of air pressure or an air pump 30 to help or support the desired / required pressure difference to reduce the volume 4. Therefore, any negative pressure in the volume 4 can be avoided during the extraction of a certain dose of liquid 2 from the container 3.

[0197] Preferably, in particular, the pressure pulse provided by the sprayer 1 or the air pump 30 acts on the liquid 2 in the variable volume 4 or container 3 at the beginning and / or during the tensioning of the sprayer 1 and the extraction of liquid 2 from the container 3. This helps to extract a certain dose of liquid 2 from the container without the formation or development of any bubbles within the liquid 2 / container 3.

[0198] Figure 9 In similar Figure 7 A partial cross-section shows a sprayer 1 with a modified valve 40 in an untensioned state according to a second embodiment, which has an insert-type container 3 according to the second embodiment. In this modified form, the valve 40 is preferably dome-shaped, curved, and / or at least substantially hemispherical.

[0199] Modification valve 40 preferably provides the same functionality as described above and / or controls or limits the (maximum) air pressure in pump chamber 39 and / or allows ambient air to flow into pump chamber 39 in order to prevent any negative pressure from occurring in pump chamber 39.

[0200] Preferably, the valve element 42 of the modified valve 40 includes a slit and / or a flexible portion 42A (preferably, in a top view of the valve element 42, the portion 42A forms a disk / circle fan-shaped area).

[0201] As already mentioned, valve 40 preferably includes or forms both intake valve 43 and control valve 44. Specifically, due to the dome shape of valve 40, valve 43 and control valve 44 preferably include a common air passage and / or a common valve element 42, especially a common flexible portion 42A.

[0202] Valve 40, particularly portion 42A, is preferably very easily opened toward the interior of the air pump 30 or pump chamber 39 (i.e., when the pressure difference between the ambient pressure and the pressure in the pump chamber 39 is very low) to allow ambient air to flow into the pump chamber 39 in order to prevent any negative pressure from occurring in the pump chamber 39. In other words, valve 40, particularly portion 42A, preferably forms the aforementioned intake valve or check valve 43.

[0203] Preferably, valve 40, especially portion 42A, can be deflected or opened outward, i.e., away from the interior of air pump 30, and air is allowed to escape from pump chamber 39 only when the pressure inside pump chamber 39 is significantly higher than the ambient air pressure (i.e., only when the pressure difference reaches or exceeds the maximum value corresponding to the maximum air pressure). In other words, valve 40, especially portion 42A, preferably forms control valve 44 as described above.

[0204] As already mentioned, the sprayer 1 preferably includes a control valve 44, which is preferably adapted to automatically open when the pressure in the air pump 30, especially its pump chamber 39, exceeds a (first) maximum value higher than the ambient pressure and / or is preferably adapted to automatically close when the air pressure in the air pump 30, especially its pump chamber 39, corresponds to a (second) maximum value higher than the ambient pressure.

[0205] Furthermore, the sprayer 1 preferably includes an air inlet valve 43, which is preferably adapted to automatically open when the air pressure in the air pump 30, especially its pump chamber 39, is lower than the ambient pressure and / or preferably adapted to automatically close when the air pressure in the air pump 30, especially its pump chamber 39, corresponds to the ambient pressure.

[0206] Preferably, valve 40, especially part 42A, forms both control valve 44 and intake / check valve 43.

[0207] Preferably, the valve 40, especially part 42A, is adapted to more easily (i.e., by applying less force) flex / open toward the air pump 30, especially toward the interior of the pump chamber 39, compared to the direction toward the outside (i.e., away from the interior of the air pump 30 or pump chamber 39).

[0208] Preferably, valve 40, especially portion 42A, is adapted to flex / open towards the interior of pump 30 or pump chamber 39 because the pressure difference between pump 30 or pump chamber 39 and the atmosphere / environment is less than the pressure difference required to flex / open valve 40, especially portion 42A, towards the exterior and / or away from the interior of pump 30 or pump chamber 39.

[0209] Most preferably, valve 40, especially portion 42A, is adapted to open and close in two different operating / pressure ranges (i.e., a first operating / pressure range and a second operating / pressure range), preferably wherein the second operating / pressure range is lower than the first operating / pressure range.

[0210] Preferably, the first working range is higher than the environmental pressure, while the second working range is lower than the environmental pressure.

[0211] In the first operating / pressure range, valve 40, especially part 42A, is preferably deflected / opened toward the outside and / or away from the inside of the air pump 30 or pump chamber 39 in order to reduce the air pressure in the air pump 30 or pump chamber 39.

[0212] In the second operating / pressure range, valve 40, especially part 42A, is preferably deflected / opened toward the interior of air pump 30 or pump chamber 39 in order to increase the air pressure in air pump 30 or pump chamber 39.

[0213] Preferably, the force / pressure difference (at both ends of valve 40) required to open valve 40, especially part 42A, depends on the opening direction of valve 40.

[0214] The directional characteristics of valve 40, especially part of 42A, are preferably achieved by the dome shape of valve 40.

[0215] Preferably, due to the additional force required for the tips of the actuating portion 42A to pass each other, a greater force (i.e., pressure difference) is required to direct the valve 40 to the outside and / or away from the interior of the air pump 30 or pump chamber 39 compared to the direction to the other. However, directional characteristics can also be achieved, for example, by using anisotropy, forcing and / or notches, grooves, etc. within the portion 42A.

[0216] In particular, the valve 40 or air inlet valve 43 and / or the airflow therein reduce / throttle, especially during atomization and / or filling, preferably (in addition) suppress the movement of the sprayer 1 and / or container 3, preferably reducing the force required to stop the container 3 during atomization, especially during initial use and / or when air in the delivery pipe 9 and / or pressure chamber 11 is expelled from the sprayer 1 (so-called filling). In other words, the valve 40 or air inlet valve 43 acts as a damper within the sprayer 1 or air pump 30. In this way, the shaking and / or foam formation of the liquid 2 is prevented or reduced.

[0217] The sprayer 1, housing component 18, air pump 30, or valve 40 are preferably provided with a support / throttling element 50, such as a ring with radial slits, to support or fix the valve element 42 and / or throttle the inlet and / or outlet air paths, particularly from below and / or therein, the corresponding opening of the insert 33. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0218] In the illustrated embodiment, air passage 41 is not, for example, as in Figure 7 and 8 In the insert 33 shown or as Figure 5 The individual or additional orifice or hole in the pump piston 31 indicated herein is not achieved, but rather by a preferred and defined radial clearance between the cylinder 32 on one side and the pump piston 31 / modified end 49 on the other side.

[0219] As in the previous embodiments, the vent channel 41 allows for relatively slow pressure compensation or equalization between the pump chamber 39 and the surrounding air pressure (compared to the pressure increase during tensioning movement or actuation of the air pump 30), preferably within about 2 to 10 seconds, and most preferably within about 4 to 6 seconds.

[0220] In addition, the radial clearance avoids or minimizes friction between the container 3 and the cylinder 32, thereby avoiding negative forces that could negatively affect the atomization movement, as such negative forces could have a negative impact on the atomization process.

[0221] In the following description, a third embodiment of the container 3 and the sprayer 1 will be described with reference to additional figures, wherein the description will focus on the differences and new aspects, such that the previous features and aspects will preferably be applied additionally or in a similar manner even without repetition.

[0222] Figure 10 A schematic cross-section of a third embodiment of container 3 is shown. Figure 11 The lower portion of a third embodiment of the sprayer 1 in a non-tensioned state is shown in schematic cross-section (similar to...). Figure 5 and 7 (9) The sprayer has a container 3 according to the third embodiment. Figure 12 It shows the relationship with Figure 10 A similar but tensioned lower section.

[0223] The container 3 preferably includes a fluid piston 28 that is axially movable within the container 3 or its sleeve 20. Specifically, the fluid piston 28 is axially movable according to the volume of the liquid 2 contained in the container 3 or the variable or collapsible / compressible volume 4 formed in the container.

[0224] The piston 28 preferably comprises about 50% or more of the generally axially extending cylindrical volume 4 to prevent any unwanted tilting of the fluid piston 28, which could impede the axial movement of the fluid piston 28.

[0225] The fluid piston 28 includes a central recess 28A, which is preferably open toward the volume 4 or the closure 25 in order to optimize or maximize the filling volume of the liquid 2 into the container 3.

[0226] In the third embodiment, the air pump 30 is preferably arranged or positioned in the container 3 or its sleeve 20.

[0227] As already described, container 3, air pump 30 or piston 31 preferably includes valve 40, air inlet valve 43 and / or control valve 44.

[0228] Valve 40 or valve element 42 is preferably inserted into the corresponding through hole or opening of pump piston 31 and / or is preferably self-holding or self-installing.

[0229] Specifically, the functionality of valve 40, intake valve 43 and / or outlet / control valve 44 is the same as that described with reference to other embodiments.

[0230] Preferably, the seal 54 is disposed between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32, and is formed inside the container 3 or its sleeve 20. The seal 54 may be formed of a ring, lip, etc., and / or extend around the pump piston 31, particularly in a corresponding annular groove on the circumference of the pump piston 31.

[0231] Pump piston 31 is biased to by return spring 36 or any other suitable biasing device. Figure 10 The initial position or axial (end) position shown is indicated.

[0232] The pump piston 31 preferably includes a recess or annular shoulder as a support member 38 to receive and / or guide the relevant end of the return spring 36.

[0233] The other end of the return spring 36 is held by a support member 37, which is preferably located within the container 3 or its sleeve 20 and / or integrated into the container or its sleeve. Preferably, the support member 37 is annular and / or provides a preferably central opening 53 to connect the pump chamber 39 (which is formed between the pump piston 31 and the bearing 37 and surrounded by the cylinder 32) to the rest of the container 3 so that compressed air can flow to or act on the liquid 2, the variable volume 4 and / or the fluid piston 28.

[0234] Preferably, the return spring 36 is arranged between the fluid piston 28 and the pump piston 31 and / or extends through or (only) in the pump chamber 39.

[0235] Valve 40, valve element 42, intake valve 43 and / or control valve 44 are preferably located in the center and / or inside the return spring 36 or aligned with the return spring and / or located at one axial end of the return spring 36.

[0236] The container 3, its sleeve 20 or modified end 49 preferably forms an axial stop for the pump piston 31, in particular making the pump piston 31 inseparable from the container 3 and / or unable to move outside the cylinder 32.

[0237] The container 3, the air pump 30, or the pump piston 31 preferably includes an actuation element 51 for actuating the pump piston 31.

[0238] Preferably, the actuating element 51 is integrally formed with the pump piston 31 and / or inseparable from the container 3 and / or the air pump 30.

[0239] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating element 51 is preferably formed as a hollow cylinder that extends axially or aligned to the outside of the container 3 or its sleeve 20.

[0240] Preferably, the actuating element 51 includes at least one venting passage 52, which allows valves 40, 43, and / or 44 to exchange air with the environment via the hollow actuating element 51 and at least one venting passage 52. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0241] The actuating element 51 and the pump piston 31 are preferably integrally formed and / or preferably made of plastic.

[0242] Figure 11 The diagram shows a cross-section of the lower portion of the sprayer 1 with container 3 in an untensioned state. In this state, container 3 is axially furthest from housing component 18 in its upper position, particularly furthest from its axial bottom or end. In this state, pump piston 31 may have been slightly pushed inward into container 3 and / or... Figure 11Push upwards to ensure that the actuating element 51 is always in contact with the axial end or bottom of the housing component 18 with its axial free end.

[0243] Figure 12 It shows that in relation to Figure 11 The lower part of the sprayer 1 and the container 3 are in a similar cross-section but under tension. Here, the container 3 has (more) moved into the housing component 18 and / or moved towards the axial bottom or end of the housing component 18 with its free end or modified end 49. Therefore, the actuating element 51 and thus the pump piston 31 have moved axially relative to the container 3 to reduce the volume of the pump chamber 39 and / or pressurize the air to pressurize the liquid 2 in the container 3 when a certain dose of liquid 2 is drawn from the container 3 during the tensioning movement (in this case, downward movement) of the container 3.

[0244] Therefore, when the sprayer 1 is tensioned or loaded, the air pump 30 pressurizes the air.

[0245] Preferably, the axial end or modified end 49 of the container 3 radially leads the actuating element 51 so that the pump piston 31 does not tilt.

[0246] Typically, preferably, the absolute maximum air pressure of the air pump 30 or pump chamber 39 (which is only reached when the sprayer 1 reaches tension) automatically and / or gradually returns to the ambient air pressure within 10 seconds, especially about 8 seconds, preferably about 6 seconds or less. This recovery time depends on the size of the venting element and / or the structure of the valve 40.

[0247] Preferably, the (relative) maximum air pressure (i.e., the pressure difference between the air pressure in the air pump 30 / pump chamber 39 and the environment) is greater than 80 mbar, especially greater than 100 mbar, and / or less than 300 mbar, especially less than 200 mbar.

[0248] Typically, friction occurs between the fluid piston 28 and the sleeve 20 / cylinder 32. This is known as "sliding force". When a certain amount of liquid 2 is drawn from the container 3, a negative pressure is generated. This negative pressure "sucks" the fluid piston 28 inward.

[0249] When container 3 is not used for a long time, an additional frictional force called "loosening force" is generated, causing the fluid piston 28 to stick to the cylinder wall.

[0250] The sliding force, especially the loosening force, can be overcome by using the air pump 30 and / or by applying air pressure during tensioning.

[0251] Preferably, the container 3, its sleeve 20, or cylinder 32 may be made of glass or have an inner surface of glass to reduce friction, especially to reduce sliding force and / or loosening force.

[0252] Alternatively or additionally, the inner surface of cylinder 32 may be provided with a lubricant, such as silicone resin, and / or baked silicone, to reduce friction, especially sliding force and / or loosening force.

[0253] Specifically, a uniform coating, preferably oil, can be produced by baking. Such a film is more stable on the inner surface of cylinder 32 and remains in place even when container 3 is filled with liquid 2.

[0254] Preferably, the inner surface of the container 3, sleeve 20, or cylinder 32 is baked or covered with silicone resin. Preferably, this is done just before the container 3 is filled with liquid 2. The baked container 3 is preferably sterilized before filling.

[0255] This invention allows, supports, or ensures highly precise metering and / or facilitates maintaining a highly constant volume of the dispensed dose. Furthermore, it prevents the formation or development of any bubbles within the liquid 2 or the bag / variable volume 4. Even when very high doses are provided, such as 100 or 150 doses or more, this also allows for minimizing or reducing the total volume of the liquid 2 initially set in the container 3.

[0256] Figure 13 The illustration schematically shows the implementation of the first embodiment ( Figure 1 , 2 (as shown in Figure 5) has a container 3 (as shown in the first embodiment) Figure 3 The different pressure changes of the sprayer 1 / air pump 30 (shown in the figure) are a function of the actuation (the amount of liquid 2 dispensed).

[0257] The X-axis represents the number of actuations. The axis starts with "0", which means that no dose of liquid 2 has been drawn from or dispensed from container 3, i.e., container 3 or its volume 4 is completely full at this time.

[0258] The Y-axis represents pressure in bar. 1.0 bar represents or corresponds to the normal pressure (ambient air pressure) in the calculation.

[0259] As already mentioned, a certain pressure differential must be applied to overcome any inertia and / or friction or adhesion to ensure the desired collapse of the variable volume 4 (here, the bag) of container 3, so that any negative pressure in the variable volume 4 can be avoided or at least minimized during the extraction of a certain dose of liquid 2 and / or so that a very precise / defined, especially constant volume of liquid 2 can be extracted during each tensioning stroke or pumping process or loading of fluid pump 5. This pressure differential is particularly between 40 mbar and 100 mbar, and is assumed to be 70 mbar in the illustrated figure. This is reflected by curve C4, which shows the absolute pressure corresponding to the required or assumed 70 mbar pressure differential, which should be achieved or exceeded to ensure or facilitate accurate measurement as explained.

[0260] Curves C1 to C3 illustrate different calculations of pressure changes under different conditions. The variation in curve C1 has been confirmed through corresponding experiments (without valves 40 / 43). Furthermore, the values ​​used for calculation correspond to the samples used in the experiments.

[0261] Curves C1 to C3 show the maximum air pressure reached during actuation or tensioning.

[0262] In all cases, the air volume in container 3 is approximately 2 ml at the beginning, while the pump volume of air pump 30 is approximately 3.5 ml.

[0263] For curve C1, the total volume of the air pump 30 is approximately 5 ml, and the volume of the extracted liquid 2 for each dose is 15 μL.

[0264] For curve C2, the total volume of the air pump 30 is approximately 10 ml, and for each dose of liquid 2 extracted during each actuation, the volume is 15 microliters. Specifically, the effective length of the cylinder 32 / insertion 33 is doubled / changed to double / chang the total volume of the air pump 30.

[0265] For curve C3, the total volume of air pump 30 is the same, that is, about 10 ml, of which the volume of each dose of liquid 2 is 30 microliters.

[0266] It can be seen that all three curves C1 to C3 are significantly higher than the required minimum curve C4, enabling the achievement or exceeding of the required minimum pressure (differential) and allowing for or supporting accurate measurement.

[0267] The difference between curve C1 on one side and curves C2 and C3 on the other side indicates that the total volume of the air pump 30, the total air buffer volume (total air volume, i.e., the sum of the air pump 30 and the fully filled container 3 minus the pump volume of the air pump 30, i.e., approximately 3.5 ml for C1 and approximately 8.5 ml for C2 and C3), and / or the total volume of both the air pump 30 and the container 3 affect the dependence of the number of actuations, especially making the gradients of curves C2 and C3 smaller than the gradient of curve C1, which has a lower total volume / air buffer volume ratio. Therefore, a higher total air volume / air buffer volume ratio may be beneficial for achieving more uniform operation.

[0268] Furthermore, the above comparisons show that a lower total air volume results in a higher air pressure level, which may lead to unwanted liquid leakage. Therefore, especially in this case, it is preferable to control the air pressure by means of valve 40 or 43. However, the effect of selecting valve 40 / 43 was not considered in curves C1 to C3.

[0269] The comparison of curves C2 and C3 shows that the volume of the extracted liquid 2 has a relatively small impact compared to the total air volume. However, because the volume of each dose is higher, curve C3 decreases faster than curve C2, which has a smaller volume of each dose.

[0270] Figure 14 In another illustration, it is shown schematically. Figures 10 to 12 The pressure change of the sprayer 1 / container 3 / air pump 30 according to the third embodiment shown is used as a function of actuation.

[0271] The X-axis represents the number of actuations. The axis starts with "0", which means that no dose of liquid 2 has been drawn from or dispensed from container 3, i.e., container 3 or its volume 4 is completely full at this time.

[0272] The Y-axis represents the force or pressure difference acting on the fluid piston 28 to pressurize the liquid 2 in the container 3 / volume 4. The Y-axis uses a scale proportional to the actual pressure or force value.

[0273] For curve C5, at the start of fully filling container 3, the pump volume of air pump 30 is approximately 1.4 ml, and the total air volume of container 3, including the volume of air pump 30, is approximately 1.55 ml. Furthermore, a dose of 15 μl is withdrawn or expelled during each actuation.

[0274] Curve C5 has been calculated based on the above values ​​and shows the maximum force or pressure difference acting on the fluid piston 28 during actuation or tensioning.

[0275] Especially at the beginning, curve C5 shows a very strong dependence or a steep gradient. Therefore, the (maximum) gas pressure (differential) and force acting on the fluid piston 28 and thus on the liquid 2 in the container 3 vary greatly with actuation or during normal operation of the container 3.

[0276] The high dependence or high gradient mentioned above, especially at the beginning (i.e., after container 3 is fully filled), is due to the minimal or very small amount of air buffer (the difference between the total air volume and the pump volume; here it is due to the minimal clearance or air space between pistons 28 and 31, even when container 3 is fully filled). Therefore, increasing the air buffer may be advantageous, but it reduces the usable volume 4 of liquid 2 when the total size of container 3 remains constant. Therefore, it may be very helpful, especially by means of valves 40 or 43, to control or limit the maximum air pressure in order to maintain the force or pressure difference acting on the fluid piston 28 and the liquid 2 in container 3 at the desired level. However, the effect of selecting valves 40 / 43 is not considered in curve C5.

[0277] Figure 14The diagram schematically illustrates the required minimum force or pressure difference as curve C6, which should be reached or exceeded in order to ensure (explicitly) overcome the potential loosening force used to move the fluid piston 28.

[0278] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 15 to 26 Other preferred embodiments of the sprayer 1 / container 3 are described, wherein only relevant differences of new aspects / features are described or highlighted, and wherein the foregoing explanations and descriptions are preferably additionally or accordingly applied even without repetition. Specifically, according to Figures 15 to 26 The sprayer 1 / container 3 may include reference Figures 1 to 14 Especially references Figure 3 and 7 One or more features described up to 9, and vice versa.

[0279] Figure 15 Another preferred embodiment of the sprayer 1 in a delivered / unused state is shown in schematic cross-section. Figure 16 The sprayer 1 is shown during initial use / tensioning (i.e., when the seal 26 attached to the axial end of the container 3 is opened). Figure 17 A partially enlarged view of the sprayer 1 is shown to illustrate the opening of the seal 26. Figure 18 The sprayer 1 is shown after being activated (i.e., after a certain dose of liquid 2 has been atomized) and is therefore in a non-tensioned state.

[0280] The delivery / unused state of sprayer 1 / container 3 is preferably the state in which sprayer 1 / container 3 is delivered from the factory.

[0281] Preferably, sprayer 1 is not tensioned in the delivered / unused state.

[0282] Most preferably, the container 3, especially its seal 26, is intact / unopened / unpunctured in the delivered / unused state of the container 3. Preferably (in the case where the container 3 has a fluid piston 28), in the delivered / unused state of the container 3, the fluid piston 28 is flush with the axial end of the container 3, the sleeve 20 and / or the pump piston 31.

[0283] As already mentioned, the insert 33 is preferably attached to the housing component 18 by force-fit and / or form-fit and / or by gluing, welding or the like. Figures 15 to 18The diagram illustrates a possible form-fit connection between the insert 33 and the housing component 18, preferably wherein the insert 33 is clamped into the housing 18. For example, the insert 33 may be equipped with a protrusion 33B, and the housing component 18 may be equipped with a corresponding recess 18B, or vice versa, preferably wherein the protrusion 33B protrudes into the recess 18B when the insert 33 is clamped into the housing 18. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0284] As already mentioned, the container 3 may be provided with an (axial) seal 26, preferably wherein the seal 26 covers or seals the container 3, especially its axial end or base 22, and most preferably in the gap between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32.

[0285] The seal 26 serves as a barrier against contaminants (e.g., dust) and / or may serve as a quality seal and / or a label, and / or may include notes or user instructions.

[0286] exist Figures 15 to 18 In the embodiment shown, the seal 26 is implemented as a ring, specifically such that the (first) recess 28A is axially accessible and / or not covered by the seal 26. However, other construction solutions are also possible, particularly where the seal 26 covers the entire axial end of the container 3, as described later.

[0287] Preferably, the seal 26 is attached to the bottom / axial end of the container 3. In the current embodiment, the seal 26 is preferably attached (e.g., adhered) to the fluid piston 28 on one side and the sleeve 20 and / or pump piston 31 on the other side. In this way, no part falls off when the seal 26 is opened. However, other solutions are also possible, as will be referred to later. Figures 20 to 23 As described.

[0288] The sprayer 1 preferably includes an opening device 55 for opening the seal 26, preferably when the sprayer 1 is used for the first time / tightened.

[0289] Specifically, the opening device 55 is adapted to preferably pierce or cut the seal 26 between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 and / or in a circular / annular manner and / or around axis A, and / or allow air to flow through the seal 26.

[0290] Preferably, the opening device 55 includes one or more features of the inflation device 18A, as shown in reference. Figure 5 As stated above.

[0291] Preferably, the opening device 55 includes at least one opening element 56, wherein the opening element 56 preferably includes a sharp / conical end / point for opening, piercing or cutting the seal 26.

[0292] In the current embodiment, the opening device 55, and in particular the opening element 56, is implemented as a ring, preferably wherein the opening device 55 or the opening element 56 extends around the valve 40. However, other construction solutions are also possible, particularly wherein the opening device 55 or the opening element 56 is implemented as a pin or a set of pins, as will be referred to Figures 20 to 24 As stated above.

[0293] The opening device 55 is preferably attached / connected to the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, and / or valve 40 by form-fitting and / or force-fitting and / or by welding. Specifically, a construction solution is possible in which the opening device 55 is integrally formed with the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, and / or valve 40, as will be referred to later. Figure 23 Explanation.

[0294] According to another preferred embodiment, the opening device 55 is spring-loaded for tolerance compensation.

[0295] Preferably, the opening device 55, especially its opening element 56, protrudes axially and / or from the side opposite to the pump piston 31 and / or fluid piston 28 into the pump chamber 39.

[0296] In the current embodiment, valve 40 preferably protrudes further into pump chamber 39 than opening device 55. In other words, valve 40 is higher than opening device 55 or its opening element 56.

[0297] As already mentioned, the fluid piston 28 may include a (central) recess 28A on the side that rotates away from the volume 4 (i.e., facing the pump chamber 39) or on the side that faces the volume 4 (i.e., away from the pump chamber 39).

[0298] exist Figures 15 to 18 In the embodiment shown, the fluid piston 28 includes two recesses 28A and 28B on different sides, namely, a (first) recess 28A on the side away from the volume 4 and / or facing the pump chamber 39, and a (second) recess 28B on the side facing the volume 4 and / or away from the pump chamber 39.

[0299] Preferably, the first recess 28A is adapted to axially receive the valve 40, the intake valve 43, and / or the control valve 44, in particular allowing the container 3, the pump piston 31, and / or the base 22 to be axially moved toward the bottom of the housing component 18, the cylinder 32, and / or the insert 33, especially toward the opening device 55, without interfering with and / or contacting the valve 40, the intake valve 43, and / or the control valve 44, and / or allowing the opening device 55 to open / pierce the seal 26.

[0300] Specifically, although the seal 26 can be opened / pierced by means of the opening device 55 due to the first recess 28A, the valve 40 still protrudes above the opening device 55. However, other construction solutions are also possible. Specifically, the opening device 55 can protrude further into the pump chamber 39 than the valve 40. For example, the valve 40 can be embedded in the insert 33 or the housing component 18, especially such that the opening device 55 protrudes further into the pump chamber 39 than the valve 40. In such an embodiment, the seal 26 can cover the entire axial end of the container 3.

[0301] Preferably, the opening device 55, one or more opening elements 56, valve 40 and / or first recess 28A are arranged concentrically. Preferably, the diameter (outer diameter) 56 of the opening device 55 or its opening element arranged in a ring or circle is larger than the diameter (outer diameter) of valve 40 and / or first recess 28A. In particular, the opening device 55 or one or more opening elements 56 of it opens / cuts / pierces the seal 26 in a circular / circular manner, the circle being concentric with valve 40 and / or first recess 28A, and / or including a diameter (outer diameter) larger than the diameter (outer diameter) of valve 40 and / or first recess 28A.

[0302] Most preferably, the container 3, especially its sleeve 20 and / or fluid piston 28, includes a preferred circumferential / circular recess 3A to (axially) receive the opening device 55, especially one or more of its opening elements 56, preferably wherein the recess 3A is arranged on the surface of the container 3, especially its sleeve 20 and / or fluid piston 28 facing the opening device 55, especially one or more of its opening elements 56. In this way, opening / piercing of the seal 26 is facilitated, and the opening device 55, especially one or more of its opening elements 56, does not impact rigid material. Furthermore, due to the circumferential / circular recess 3A, the orientation of the container 3 relative to the opening device 55, especially one or more of its opening elements 56, is irrelevant.

[0303] (Second) The recess 28B is preferably adapted to axially receive the closure 25, especially its axial end, most preferably a delivery tube 9 (not shown) or a preferably funnel-shaped connector / port (not shown) for the delivery tube 9 extending through the closure 25, preferably wherein the delivery tube 9 or connector / port extends only a few millimeters into the volume 4 or is flush with the closure 25. Furthermore, the volume 4 increases due to the (second) recess 28B.

[0304] Preferably, the fluid piston 28 serves as an axial seal for the closure 25 and / or is adapted to close / seal the container 3, especially the closure 25, from the inside and / or when the fluid piston 28 reaches the closure 25 and / or moves axially relative to the closure 25.

[0305] Most preferably, the (second) recess 28B is adapted to seal / close the closure 25 when the fluid piston 28 moves axially to its upper axial (end) position.

[0306] Due to the (second) recess 28B, the volume 4 can be increased, thus increasing the amount of dose that can be drawn from the volume 4 and / or the container 3. Furthermore, when the fluid piston 28 reaches its upper axial (end) position and cannot move further toward the closure 25, the container 3, and especially the closure 25, can be closed from the inside. In this way, leakage can be prevented, for example, when removing the container 3.

[0307] Another advantage of the recesses 28A and 28B is that they reduce weight without reducing the (radial) contact surface of the fluid piston 28 and therefore without increasing the risk of twisting / tilting the fluid piston 28 within the container 3 / sleeve 20.

[0308] Furthermore, the elasticity of the fluid piston 28 is increased (especially when it is made of an elastomer, thermoplastic and / or thermosetting material, most preferably rubber), particularly so that the fluid piston 28 is hermetically fitted into the container 3 or sleeve 20, preferably so that the (additional) seal 29 can be omitted, as will be described with respect to 20 to 23.

[0309] As already mentioned, the fluid piston 28 preferably includes a (radial) seal 29, preferably wherein the seal 29 acts between the fluid piston 28 and the sleeve 20. Preferably, the seal 29 is implemented as a sealing ring, i.e., an O-ring, a sealing lip, or preferably a two-part injection-molded seal, etc.

[0310] Most preferably, the seal 29 is placed in the circumferential groove of the fluid piston 28.

[0311] like Figure 17 As best shown in the enlarged view, seal 29 can be equipped with axial clearance. Specifically, the groove accommodating the sealing ring can be wider than the sealing ring itself, especially allowing the fluid piston 28 or its base to move axially relative to the sleeve 20 without moving seal 29 relative to the sleeve 20. In this way, especially after tensioning and / or actuating the sprayer 1, the (residual) pressure difference between volume 4 and pump chamber 39 can be balanced or reduced.

[0312] In this embodiment, the fluid piston 28 preferably includes a plurality of seals 29, in this case two seals, wherein the seals 29 are preferably spaced apart from each other in the axial direction.

[0313] If you have already specifically referred to Figures 10 to 12As described in the embodiment shown, the sprayer 1 or container 3 may include a (radial) seal 54 arranged between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 and / or acting between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32, in particular sealing the gap between the cylinder 32 and the pump piston 31.

[0314] The seal 54 is preferably implemented as a sealing ring, i.e., an O-ring, (preferably double) sealing lip, or preferably a two-part injection molded seal, etc.

[0315] In this embodiment, the seal 54 is preferably an O-ring. However, other solutions are also possible, particularly where the seal 54 is implemented as a (double) sealing lip that is injection molded onto the pump piston 31 or cylinder 32 and / or protrudes radially from the pump piston 31 or cylinder 32.

[0316] Preferably, the seal 54 extends around the pump piston 31, particularly within its circumferential groove.

[0317] Most preferably, the sprayer 1 or container 3 includes a sealing device 57, preferably wherein the sealing device 57 includes or forms a seal 54 and / or acts between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32.

[0318] The sealing device 57, especially the seal 54, is preferably adapted to compensate for the tolerances between the housing component 18, cylinder 32 or insert 33 on one side and the container 3, sleeve 20 or pump piston 31 on the other side.

[0319] Preferably, the sealing device 57 includes / causes a (variable) sealing effect between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32, preferably wherein the sealing effect depends on the direction of movement of the pump piston 31 relative to the cylinder 32.

[0320] Preferably, the sealing device 57 is adapted to increase the sealing effect, close the gap between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 and / or seal the pump piston 31 against the cylinder 32 during the extraction of a certain dose of liquid 2 from the container 3 or volume 4 and / or during the tensioning of the sprayer 1 and / or when the pump piston 31 moves toward the bottom of the housing component 18.

[0321] Preferably, the sealing device 57 is adapted to reduce the sealing effect, loosen the seal 57 and / or open the gap between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 during the pressurization of a certain dose of liquid 2 for atomization and / or during the dispensing of a certain dose of liquid 2 and / or when the pump piston 31 moves toward the nozzle 13.

[0322] Most preferably, during the tensioning / lifting / loading of the sprayer 1 and / or when the pump piston 31 moves toward the bottom of the housing component 18 and / or when the air pump 30 is to be used, the pump piston 31 is sealed only against the cylinder 32 and / or the pump chamber 39 is closed only by means of the sealing device 57 or its seal 54.

[0323] The sealing device 57 is preferably adapted to apply (variable) force / pressure to the seal 54, the pump piston 31 and / or the cylinder 32, and / or to apply variable friction between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32, in particular, wherein the level of force / pressure / friction depends on the direction of movement of the pump piston 31 relative to the cylinder 32.

[0324] Preferably, the sealing device 57 is adapted to increase the force / pressure / friction between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 according to the direction of movement of the pump piston 31 within the cylinder 32.

[0325] Most preferably, the sealing device 57 is adapted to increase the force / pressure / friction between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 during the extraction of a certain dose of liquid 2 from the container 3 or volume 4 and / or during the tensioning of the sprayer 1 and / or when the pump piston 31 moves toward the bottom of the housing component 18.

[0326] Most preferably, the sealing device 57 is adapted to reduce the force / pressure / friction between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 during pressurization of a dose of liquid 2 for atomization and / or during dispensing a dose of liquid 2 and / or when the pump piston 31 moves toward the nozzle 13.

[0327] In other words, sealing device 57 provides two different sealing states / positions. Figures 15 to 17 In the first sealing state / position shown, the pump piston 31 preferably seals against the cylinder 32 with high force / pressure, and / or establishes a strong seal between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32, i.e., a seal with high (mechanical) strength.

[0328] exist Figure 18 In the second sealing state / position shown, the pump piston 31 seals against the cylinder 32 with a smaller force / pressure than in the first sealing state / position, or even without any force / pressure. In the second sealing state / position, the seal between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 preferably has a lower (mechanical) strength than in the first sealing state / position.

[0329] Due to the sealing device 57, i.e., the variable sealing effect, the influence of the air pump 30 on the dispensing / atomization process can be reduced / minimized. Specifically, during the dispensing / atomization process (compared to the tensioning / loading process and / or fluid extraction process), the container 3 can move with less frictional resistance.

[0330] The sealing device 57 preferably includes a (circumferential) groove 58, wherein the groove 58 preferably extends around the pump piston 31 or cylinder 32.

[0331] Preferably, the seal 54 is arranged in the groove 58.

[0332] The groove 58 is preferably wider than the seal 54, especially to allow the seal 54 to move (axially) within the groove 58, i.e., to move up and down. In other words, the sealing device 57 preferably includes axial clearance, especially to allow the seal 54 to move axially within the groove 58.

[0333] like Figure 17 As best shown, the groove 58, in particular, is preferably tapered in width and / or preferably includes a (radial) depth that varies along its axial extension (i.e., along its width).

[0334] The depth of the sealing device 57, especially the groove 58, is preferably the radial range of the groove 58. The width of the sealing device 57, especially the groove 58, is preferably the axial range of the groove 58.

[0335] Typically, the terms "radial" and "axial" preferably refer to the main axis / central axis A of the sprayer 1 or container 3.

[0336] Preferably, the main axis / central axis A of the sprayer 1 or container 3 is preferably the longitudinal, rotational and / or motion axis of the cylindrical and / or elongated sprayer 1 or container 3.

[0337] Specifically, the main axis / central axis A is formed or defined by the reciprocating movement of the sprayer 1 or container 3 and / or the main axis / longitudinal extension and / or the main direction of the spray.

[0338] Preferably, the groove 58 deepens toward the bottom of the container 3 or the base 22 and / or tapers toward the head 21 of the container 3.

[0339] When the container 3 and / or pump piston 31 move downwards, that is, when it moves toward the bottom of the housing component 18 and / or away from the nozzle 13, and / or during the tensioning process of the sprayer 1 (such as when... Figures 15 to 17 As shown in the diagram, the seal 54 preferably moves in the opposite direction within the groove 58, i.e., moves upward, and / or moves into the narrower portion of the groove 58, and / or presses against the pump piston 31 / cylinder 32 with greater force. This increases the force / pressure / friction and / or sealing effect between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32, especially ensuring that no air leaks from the pump chamber 39 through the gap between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32.

[0340] When the container 3 and / or pump piston 31 moves upward, i.e., away from the bottom of the housing component 18 and / or toward the nozzle 13, and / or during the dispensing / atomization of a certain dose of liquid 2 (such as... Figure 18 As shown in the diagram, the seal 54 preferably moves downward and / or into a deeper portion of the groove 58. In this way, the seal 54 is pressed against the pump piston 31 / cylinder 32 with less force. Therefore, the force / pressure / friction and / or sealing effect between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 is reduced. Specifically, the container 3 can move with less frictional resistance during the dispensing / atomizing process; that is, the influence of the air pump 30 on the dispensing / atomizing process can be reduced / minimized due to the variable friction of the sealing device 57.

[0341] Furthermore, the sealing device 57 can be adapted to provide an air passage between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 and / or open / close the gap between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 during atomization and / or dispensing of a certain dose of liquid 2, in particular allowing air to leak through the gap between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32.

[0342] Optionally, the sprayer 1, especially the air pump 30, includes a pressure control device 59 preferably for pressure compensation, hereinafter referred to as control device 59, and / or wherein the control device 59 is adapted to control and / or limit the air pressure in the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39, preferably independently of the tension / lifting / loading speed of the sprayer 1 (i.e., the speed at which the housing part 18 rotates relative to the upper housing part 16).

[0343] Preferably, the sprayer 1, especially the control device 59, includes an over-pressure device / pressure reducing device / pressure relief device / valve 60, hereinafter referred to as pressure relief device 60.

[0344] Preferably, the control device 59 includes a pressure relief device 60, and also includes a valve 40, an intake valve 43 and / or a control valve 44.

[0345] Most preferably, the control device 59, and in particular its pressure relief device 60, is adapted to reduce the air pressure in the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39 according to the (axial) position of the container 3 in the sprayer 1 or the sleeve 18.

[0346] Compared to valve 40, air intake valve 43 and / or control valve 44, pressure relief device 60 can be actuated / opened based on the (axial) position of container 3 in sprayer 1, especially housing component 18 and / or pump piston 31 in cylinder 32 and / or independently of the (actual) pressure in air pump 30 or pump chamber 39 (while valve 40, air intake valve 43 and / or control valve 44 are adapted to open based on air pressure in air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39).

[0347] The control device 59, especially its pressure relief device 60, is preferably implemented as a bypass or bypass channel integrated in the pump piston 31 or cylinder 32. Preferably, the control device 59, especially its pressure relief device 60, operates and / or is implemented as an overpressure valve that opens according to the (axial) position of the container 3 within the sprayer 1.

[0348] Preferably, the control device 59, and especially the pressure relief device 60, is formed by a longitudinal / axial groove within the pump piston 31 or cylinder 32, preferably wherein the groove extends at least substantially parallel to the central axis A of the sprayer 1. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0349] When the pump piston 31 reaches its predetermined (axial) position within / relative to the cylinder 32, especially when the pump piston 31 reaches its first / lower axial (end) position and / or (only) during the tensioning of the sprayer 1, especially at the end of the tensioning process (e.g. Figure 16 As shown in the diagram, the control device 59, especially the pressure relief device 60, is preferably activated or can be activated and / or can be opened.

[0350] Preferably, the control device 59, in particular the pressure relief device 60, is adapted to bypass the sealing device 57, in particular the seal 54, and / or is adapted to pneumatically connect the air pump 30, in particular its pump chamber 39, to the atmosphere / environment, in particular so that the (residual) overpressure (compared to ambient pressure) in the sprayer 1 or the air pump 30, in particular its pump chamber 39, can be compensated.

[0351] When the seal 54 of the sealing device 57 reaches and / or is at the same level as the pressure relief device 60, especially at the axial (upper) end of the bypass channel (e.g.) Figure 16 As shown in the diagram, the control device 59, particularly the pressure relief device 60, is preferably activated and / or opened. This is preferably the case when the pump piston 31 reaches its first / lower axial (end) position within the cylinder 32 and / or when the volume of the pump chamber 39 is at its minimum. However, other solutions are also possible, such as in which the pump piston 31 opens a resilient valve, etc.

[0352] When activated / opened (e.g.) Figure 16 As shown in the diagram, the control device 59, in particular its pressure relief device 60, bypasses the sealing device 57, in particular the seal 54, and / or pneumatically connects the air pump 30, in particular its pump chamber 39, to the atmosphere / environment and / or reduces the pressure in the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39 to ambient pressure, preferably abruptly, for example within one second, preferably within 0.5 seconds.

[0353] The control device 59, and in particular the pressure relief device 60, is preferably adapted to compensate for overpressure generated during the tensioning process and / or by the air pump 30, and thus help protect the sprayer 1 and / or container 3 from damage that may be caused by the high air pressure maintained in the sprayer 1, especially in the pump chamber 39, and / or prevent the sprayer 1 from leaking (e.g., not atomizing immediately after the sprayer is tensioned).

[0354] In other words, the control device 59, and in particular the pressure relief device 60, is preferably adapted to temporarily open the pump chamber 39, and / or, especially at the end of the tensioning process, to temporarily connect the air pump 30, and in particular its pump chamber 39, to the atmosphere / environment. Therefore, the pump chamber 39 is preferably only temporarily closed during the tensioning process.

[0355] Due to the combination of control device 59 and / or pressure relief device 60 on one side with valve 40 / control valve 44 on the other side, the air pressure in the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39 is controlled / limited through two different mechanisms during the tensioning process of sprayer 1. First, the air pressure is limited to the maximum value defined by valve 40 / control valve 44. Second, when the pump piston 31 reaches the predetermined axial position in cylinder 32 and / or when the tensioning process ends, the air pressure (suddenly) drops to ambient pressure.

[0356] Furthermore, the air pressure value within the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39 is limited / controlled independently of the tensioning / lifting / loading speed of the sprayer 1 (i.e., the speed at which the housing component 18 rotates relative to the upper housing component 16).

[0357] Figure 19 The diagram schematically illustrates the pressure changes as a function of the axial position of the container 3 within the housing component 18 and / or the pump piston 31 within the cylinder 32, and particularly as a function of the axial displacement of the container 3 from its untensioned state during the tensioning process. The values ​​shown have been determined experimentally.

[0358] The X-axis represents the axial position or displacement of the container 3 and / or pump piston 31 in millimeters. It begins with "0", which means that the container 3 and / or pump piston 31 has not yet moved out of its untensioned state, i.e., toward the bottom of the sprayer 1 or housing component 18.

[0359] The Y-axis represents the pressure within pump chamber 39 in bar. A pressure of 1.0 bar represents or corresponds to normal pressure or ambient air pressure PA. Preferably, the pressure depends on the volume discharged by pump piston 31.

[0360] During the tensioning process, the air pressure in the sprayer 1, especially the air pump 30 or its pump chamber 39, increases, preferably until a first maximum value P1 is reached. In this figure, the first maximum value P1 is reached when the container 3 has moved approximately 2.65 mm.

[0361] The first maximum value P1 is preferably higher than the ambient pressure PA and / or higher than the second maximum value P2, and most preferably higher than 2 bar and / or lower than 3 bar. In this figure, the first maximum value P1 corresponds to approximately 2.7 bar.

[0362] When the first maximum value P1 is reached, valve 40 / control valve 44 opens, specifically reducing the pressure until the second maximum value P2 is reached. In other words, to increase the air pressure in the air pump 30 / pump chamber 39, valve 40 / control valve 44 opens at the first maximum (pressure) value P1, and specifically to reduce the air pressure inside the air pump 30 / pump chamber 39, valve 40 / control valve 44 closes at a second (pressure) value P2, which is lower than P1. Therefore, control valve 43 limits the air pressure acting on the fluid piston 28 and thus on the liquid 2 in container 3 to the first maximum (pressure) value P1.

[0363] Preferably, the second maximum value P2 is higher than the ambient pressure PA and / or lower than the first maximum value P1, and most preferably higher than 1 bar and / or lower than 2 bar. In this figure, the second maximum value P2 corresponds to 1.8 bar.

[0364] As already described, valve 40 / control valve 44 preferably closes automatically when the second maximum value P2 is reached. Specifically, valve 40 / control valve 44 closes when the air pressure in the air pump 30 / pump chamber 39 is less than the second value P2, where the second value P2 is less than the first maximum value P1.

[0365] In the illustration, when the cylinder 3 in the sprayer 1 and / or the pump piston 31 in the cylinder 32 reach a predefined / certain axial position between 2.8 mm and 3 mm from the untensioned state, the control device 59 and / or the pressure relief device 60 are activated / opened, in particular causing the air pressure in the air pump 30 and / or its pump chamber 39 to preferably drop suddenly to the ambient pressure PA, most preferably within one second, 0.5 seconds or 0.1 seconds, as already mentioned.

[0366] Figures 20 to 26 Another embodiment of the sprayer 1 and container 3 is shown.

[0367] Figure 20 A schematic cross-section of the lower part of the sprayer 1 in a tensioned state is shown. Figure 21 It shows Figure 20 A partial enlarged view of sprayer 1 in delivery condition. Figure 22 A partially enlarged view of sprayer 1 after the initial tensioning is shown. Figure 23 It shows something similar to Figure 20 A schematic cross-section of the lower part of a sprayer 1 in a tensioned state, but with a modified container 3 and a modified air pump 30.

[0368] Contrary to the previous implementation plan, Figure 20 The embodiment shown includes a fluid piston 28, which is integrally formed with a seal 29, for example, by injection molding. In other words, the fluid piston 28 preferably forms the seal 29 by at least one radial protrusion extending around the fluid piston 28.

[0369] The term "integrally" preferably means that the part / section in question is made of the same material and / or integrally formed. Specifically, the part / section is formed and / or made by, for example, a single block of (double) injection molding, such as by shaping and / or milling.

[0370] Preferably, the fluid piston 28 is made of plastic, especially of elastomers, thermoplastics and / or thermosetting plastics, and most preferably of (synthetic) rubber such as butyl rubber.

[0371] As already mentioned, since the first recess 28A (further) increases the elasticity of the fluid piston 28, it is preferably made possible that the (additional) seal 29 can be omitted and / or the fluid piston 28 can easily slide within the container 3 or its sleeve 20.

[0372] Compared to previous embodiments, the (axial) seal 26 preferably covers the entire axial end of the container 3 and / or pump piston 31.

[0373] Specifically, to prevent any interference with valve 40 / control valve 44, seal 26 is preferably curved, particularly recessed on the side facing valve 40, intake valve 43, and / or control valve 44. Preferably, seal 26 is dome-shaped and / or at least substantially matches the shape of valve 40.

[0374] Most preferably, the seal 26 includes or forms a (first) central recess 28A.

[0375] Preferably, especially independent of the axial position of the container 3 in the sprayer 1 or housing 19 and / or even when the container 3 is in its lower / first axial (end) position, the seal 26 is axially spaced from the valve 40, the air intake valve 43 and / or the control valve 44, especially such that air can flow between the valve 40, the air intake valve 43 and / or the control valve 44 on one side and the seal 26 on the other side, and / or from the valve 40, the air intake valve 43 and / or the control valve 44 through at least one hole in the seal 26, which has been inserted into the seal 26 by means of an opening device 55.

[0376] Alternatively and / or additionally, the seal 26, in particular its surface, is provided with grooves, notches, etc., at least on the side facing the valve 40, the intake valve 43, and / or the control valve 44, so as to allow air to flow between the valve 40, the intake valve 43, and / or the control valve 44 on one side and the seal 26 on the other side, and / or from the valve 40, the intake valve 43, and / or the control valve 44 through at least one hole in the seal 26, said at least one hole having been inserted into the seal 26 by means of an opening device 55.

[0377] Preferably, compared to the previous embodiment, the seal 26 is not attached / fixed to the fluid piston 28 and / or (only) attached / fixed to the pump piston 31 and / or sleeve 20, in particular making the fluid piston 28 movable relative to the seal 26.

[0378] The opening device 55, especially its opening element 56, is preferably adapted to pierce / penetrate the seal 26, especially to pierce / penetrate the seal only partially / selectively, preferably such that at least one, preferably multiple, holes are formed in the seal 26, especially eccentrically spaced from the central axis A and / or between the fluid piston 28 and the sleeve 20 or pump piston 31.

[0379] In other words, the central portion of seal 26 remains connected to the edge portion of seal 26, preferably wherein only the edge portion of seal 26 is attached to pump piston 31, such as Figure 21 and 22 As shown in the best way.

[0380] Preferably, the opening device 55, especially its opening element 56, pierces the seal 26 into the gap between the sleeve 20 and the fluid piston 28, particularly into the circumferential / circular recess 3A of the container 3, the sleeve 20, and / or the fluid piston 28, as already mentioned. Preferably, the sleeve 20 and / or the fluid piston 28 are accordingly tilted.

[0381] Preferably, the opening device 55 includes a plurality of (three in this case) opening elements 56, or is formed by a plurality of opening elements, wherein the opening elements 56 are preferably arranged in a ring around the circumference of the preferred annular opening device 55 and / or spaced apart from pin-like members (where the valve 40 is arranged within the ring defined by the opening device 55). Specifically, the opening elements 56 are arranged around the valve 40.

[0382] According to Figure 23 As shown in the implementation scheme, the opening device 55 and the valve 40 can be integrally formed.

[0383] Alternatively or additionally, valve 40 and (radial) seal 54 acting between pump piston 31 and cylinder 32 can be integrally formed.

[0384] Most preferably, the valve 40, opening device 55, cylinder 32, control device 59, especially the pressure relief device 60, and / or the seal 54 acting between the pump piston 31 and the cylinder 32 are integrally and / or integrally formed, for example by injection molding. This allows the sprayer 1 to be easily constructed and / or easily and / or quickly assembled.

[0385] Preferably, the pump piston 31 is rotatable relative to the container 3, and in particular its sleeve 20. Specifically, the pump piston 31 is rotatably held by or connected to the sleeve 20 of the container 3.

[0386] exist Figures 20 to 26 In the embodiment shown, the pump piston 31 is preferably clamped onto the sleeve 20, in particular so that it can rotate relative to the sleeve 20.

[0387] Preferably, the pump piston 31 includes a circumferential protrusion 31A, and the sleeve 20 includes a corresponding circumferential groove 20A, and vice versa. Preferably, the protrusion 31A is inserted into the groove 20A, in particular, so that the pump piston 31 is axially held by means of the sleeve 20.

[0388] Preferably, the protrusion 31A and the groove 20A extend around the circumference of the pump piston 31 and the sleeve 20, respectively.

[0389] Preferably, the sprayer 1 is at least partially reusable and / or can be used with multiple containers 3. Most preferably, the sprayer 1 can be opened so that the container 3 can be replaced / replaced, preferably by removing the housing component 18. Specifically, the following solutions are possible: wherein the container 3, together with the housing component 18, the air pump 30, and / or the insert 33, forms a unit and / or can be replaced / replaced.

[0390] As already mentioned, it is preferable to count / indicate and / or limit the total number of uses of sprayer 1 and / or the number of containers 3 that can be used with the same sprayer 1. Sprayer 1 preferably includes a device for counting and / or indicating the number of uses that sprayer 1 has performed or may still be performed, or for counting and / or indicating the number of containers 3 that have been used or may still be used with sprayer 1. Such a device in Figure 1 It is shown in and disclosed in WO 2004 / 024340 A1.

[0391] Preferably, the sprayer 1 or container 3 includes (additional) indicator device 61 to count and / or indicate the number of uses that (current) container 3 or volume 4 has been performed or may still be performed, for example, to indicate when container 3 has been replaced / replaced.

[0392] Preferably, the sprayer 1 may be equipped with both a (first) indicator device 61 and a (second) indicator device, wherein the (first) indicator device is used to count and / or indicate the number of uses that have been performed or may still be performed for the (current) container 3 or volume 4, and the (second) indicator device counts and / or indicates the number of uses that have been performed or may still be performed for the sprayer 1, and / or is used to count and / or indicate the number of containers 3 that have been used or may still be used with the (current) sprayer 1. However, the two devices may be implemented independently of each other.

[0393] The following will be a special reference Figure 24 Describe the functionality of the indicator device 61. Figure 24 A perspective view of a portion of the sprayer 1 in its untensioned state is shown.

[0394] The indicator device 61 preferably includes an indicator element 62 and an actuator 63 for actuating the indicator element 62 / rotating it.

[0395] Preferably, the indicator element 62 is disposed at the bottom / base 22 of the container 3. Specifically, the indicator element 62 includes or forms a first axial end of the container 3 and / or the bottom / base 22 and / or moves (axially) together with the container 3.

[0396] Specifically, the indicator element 62 is rotatably connected to / attached to the container 3, and in particular its sleeve 20. Alternatively, the indicator element 62 may be rotatable only in one direction and / or secured, for example by a ratchet or the like (not shown), to prevent rotation in one direction.

[0397] Preferably, the indicating element 62 is annular, cylindrical, and / or extends around the container 3, especially its sleeve 20. In other words, the indicating device 61, especially its indicating element 62, radially surrounds the sleeve 20.

[0398] Preferably, the indicator element 62 is implemented as a hollow cylinder and / or integrally formed.

[0399] Most preferably, the indicator element 62 includes or forms the pump piston 31, or vice versa.

[0400] The indicator element 62 preferably includes a mark 62C to indicate the number of uses that the corresponding container 3 or volume 4 has already performed or may still be performed.

[0401] The 62C marker is preferably implemented as a numeric marker and / or a numeric sequence. However, other solutions are also possible, such as where the 62C marker is implemented as a color gradient, etc.

[0402] Preferably, the indicator device 61 includes an indicator housing 64, wherein the indicator housing 64 is at least substantially cylindrical and / or has at least substantially cylindrical form and / or wherein the indicator element 62 is enclosed within the indicator housing 64.

[0403] Preferably, the indicator sleeve 64 includes a window 64A, particularly in its peripheral wall, through which a mark 62C indicating the current or still possible number of uses of the corresponding container 3 can be seen for the user or patient.

[0404] Window 64A can be implemented as an opening within indicator housing 64, preferably wherein, in this case, window 64A is axially spaced from pump chamber 39.

[0405] However, other construction solutions are also possible, such as where window 64A is formed by a transparent portion of indicator housing 64.

[0406] Preferably, the indicator housing 64 is rigidly / immovably connected to the cylinder 32, the insert 33, and / or the housing component 18. Most preferably, the indicator housing 64 rotates together with the inner component 17, the housing component 18, the cylinder 32, and / or the insert 33 and / or relative to the upper housing component 16 during the tensioning of the sprayer 1.

[0407] Specifically, housing component 18, cylinder 32 and / or insert 33 include or form indicator housing 64, and vice versa.

[0408] The indicator device 61 preferably includes an actuator 63 or cooperates with an actuator 63.

[0409] Actuator 63 is preferably rigidly / immovably connected / attached to housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33 and / or indicator housing 64. Most preferably, actuator 63 rotates together with and / or relative to upper housing component 16 during sprayer 1 tensioning.

[0410] Specifically, housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33 and / or indicator housing 64 include or form actuator 63.

[0411] Preferably, the container 3, especially its sleeve 20, rotates together with and / or relative to the upper housing component 16 during the tensioning of the sprayer 1, along with the internal component 17, the housing component 18, the cylinder 32, the insert 33, the actuator 63 and / or the indicator housing 64.

[0412] Preferably, the container 3 (especially its sleeve 20) (especially radially and / or circumferentially) is held and / or slidable therein (especially axially) by the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, actuator 63 and / or indicator housing 64, especially such that it can move axially within the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, actuator 63 and / or indicator housing 64 and / or move / rotate together with the inner component 17, housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, actuator 63 and / or indicator housing 64.

[0413] Most preferably, torque is transmitted from the internal component 17, housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, actuator 63 and / or indicator housing 64 to the container 3, especially its sleeve 20, such that these components rotate together relative to the upper housing component 16 during the tensioning of the sprayer 1.

[0414] In other words, preferably only the indicator element 62 and / or the pump piston 31 can rotate relative to the internal component 17, the housing component 18, the cylinder 32, the insert 33, the actuator 63, and / or the indicator housing 64.

[0415] Preferably, the container 3, especially its sleeve 20, includes protrusions, and the internal component 17, housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, actuator 63, and / or indicator housing 64 include corresponding recesses (or vice versa), preferably wherein the protrusions project into the recesses, particularly so that the container 3 cannot rotate, but rather moves axially relative to the internal component 17, housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, actuator 63, and / or indicator housing 64. In this way, the container 3, especially its sleeve 20, is preferably correctly oriented relative to the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, actuator 63, and / or indicator housing 64.

[0416] In this implementation plan, such as Figure 20 As best shown, container 3, and in particular its sleeve 20, includes longitudinal protrusions, and actuator 63 includes corresponding recesses. However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0417] Preferably, in the delivered condition of sprayer 1, container 3 has been (pre-)inserted into sprayer 1, particularly into its housing 19. However, other solutions are possible.

[0418] Preferably, as already mentioned, the container 3 is replaced / replaced / inserted together with the housing component 18, the air pump 30, the insert 33 and / or the indicator device 61, especially its housing 64 (i.e., as a unit).

[0419] To orient the indicator element 62 relative to the container 3, sleeve 20, housing component 18, insert 33, and / or indicator housing 64 (e.g., when the (new) container 3 is inserted into the sprayer 1), markings may be provided on one side of the indicator element 62 and on the other side of the container 3, sleeve 20, housing component 18, insert 33, and / or indicator housing 64. However, it is preferable that the indicator element 62 is already correctly oriented in the delivery condition of the container 3 or the unit formed by the container 3, housing component 18, air pump 30, insert 33, and / or indicator device 61.

[0420] The actuator 63 is preferably adapted to actuate or rotate, for example, directly or indirectly via a transmission, particularly rotating the indicator element 62, preferably incrementally and / or in counting / actuation / rotation steps.

[0421] The terms “actuate” or “rotate” preferably mean that the indicator element 62 moves / rotates forward or in incremental or full (counting) steps, especially for counting and / or indicating the number of uses that the container 3 has performed or may still be performed. Most preferably, “actuate” or “rotate” means that the indicator element 62 rotates incrementally / gradually relative to the sleeve 20, housing part 18, cylinder 32, insert 33 and / or indicator housing 64, especially for counting a single use of the sprayer 1 (i.e., drawing out and dispensing a certain dose of liquid 2).

[0422] Preferably, the complete extraction and / or atomization of a certain dose of liquid 2 and / or the full use count performed is the counting step.

[0423] Actuator 63 is preferably adapted to fully rotate / actuate indicator element 62 (only) when container 3, pump piston 31 and / or indicator element 62 reach their first / lower axial (end) position and further reach their second / upper axial (end) position and / or have reached both axial (end) positions.

[0424] Preferably, the first / lower axial (end) position of the container 3, pump piston 31, and / or indicator element 62 is such that the container 3, pump piston 31, and / or indicator element 62 move as far away as possible from the nozzle 13 axially and / or move as close as possible to the bottom of the sleeve portion 18, the cylinder 32, and / or the insert 33 moves, and / or the volume of the pump chamber 39 is minimized, and / or the sprayer 1 completes tensioning (e.g., Figure 20 The location shown in the image.

[0425] The second / upper axial (end) position of the container 3, pump piston 31, and / or indicator element 62 is preferably the position in which the container 3, pump piston 31, and / or indicator element 62 are as close as possible to the nozzle 13 and / or as far away as possible from the bottom of the housing component 18, the cylinder 32 and / or insert 33 move, and / or the volume of the pump chamber 39 is maximized and / or the spraying process is completed (e.g., Figure 24 (as shown in the image).

[0426] Most preferably, the container 3, the pump piston 31, and / or the indicator element 62 contact or engage with the actuator 63 in the first / lower axial (end) position and the second / upper axial (end) position.

[0427] The actuator 63 preferably includes a first actuating element 63A and a second actuating element 63B, wherein the actuating elements 63A and 63B are preferably axially spaced apart from each other and / or oriented in opposite axial directions.

[0428] Preferably, the actuator 63 is a multi-part component, especially a two-part component, and / or is assembled from multiple, especially two, components, preferably wherein different components include or form actuating elements 63A, 63B, and / or wherein actuating elements 63A, 63B each form a different component.

[0429] Preferably, the first actuating element 63A is rigidly / immovably connected / attached to the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, and / or indicator housing 64. Specifically, the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, and / or indicator housing 64 comprise or form only the first actuating element 63A. Most preferably, the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33, and / or indicator housing 64 are integrally formed with the first actuating element 64A.

[0430] Preferably, the second actuating element 63B is rigidly / immovably connected / attached to the housing component 18, the cylinder 32, the insert 33, and / or the indicator housing 64. Specifically, the second actuating element 63B includes or forms a cap for the container 3 and / or a (radial) support component and / or a (axial) support component for driving the spring 7.

[0431] Preferably, the second actuating element 63B is axially connected, in particular, to the insertion housing component 18, the cylinder 32, the insert 33, and / or the indicator housing 64 in a form-fit or force-fit manner, such as Figure 20 and 23 As shown in the best way.

[0432] Preferably, the first actuating element 63A is adapted to be a rotation / actuation / rotation indicator element 62, particularly (only) in the first / lower axial (end) position and / or when the container 3, pump piston 31 and / or indicator element 62 have reached the first / lower axial (end) position and / or when the indicator element 62 contacts / engages with the first actuating element 63A, and is rotated / actuated forward to the middle and / or half (counting) step.

[0433] Preferably, the second actuating element 63B is adapted to be a rotation / actuation / rotation indicator element 62, particularly (only) in the second / upper axial (end) position and / or when the container 3, pump piston 31, and / or indicator element 62 have reached the second / upper axial (end) position and / or when the indicator element 62 contacts / engages with the second actuating element 63B, and is rotated / actuated forward to the middle and / or half (counting) step, such as Figure 24 As shown in the image.

[0434] Preferably, the actuating elements 63A, 63B are implemented as (axial) (preferably inclined) protrusions extending in the direction of the indicator element 62.

[0435] Most preferably, the actuating elements 63A and 63B interact with the indicator element only when the indicator element 62 is close to the first / lower and second / upper axial (end) positions, respectively.

[0436] The indicator element 62 preferably includes at least one toothed ring 62A, 62B having a plurality of (incised) teeth, particularly wherein the toothed rings 62A, 62B are arranged on the front / front surface of the indicator element 62 and / or around the sleeve 20.

[0437] Due to the tilting of the gear rings 62A, 62B, especially their teeth, and / or the tilting of one or more actuators 63A, 63B, the axial movement of the container 3 is converted into the rotational movement of the indicator element 62. Specifically, the indicator element 62 is rotated and / or driven by the actuator 63 when one or more actuators 63A, 63B, especially their tilted surfaces, and the gear rings 62A, 62B (specifically, the tilted surfaces of the teeth contact one or more actuators 63A, 63B) slide past each other.

[0438] Preferably, the indicator element 62 includes a first gear ring 62A and a second gear ring 62B, wherein the gear rings 62A and 62B are axially spaced apart from each other and / or oriented in opposite axial directions. Most preferably, the gear rings 62A and 62B are integrally formed.

[0439] Preferably, when the indicator element 62 approaches the first / lower axial (end) position, the first gear ring 62A interacts (directly) with the first actuating element 63A.

[0440] Preferably, such as Figure 24 As shown, when the indicator element 62 approaches the second / upper axial (end) position, the second gear ring 62B interacts (directly) with the second actuating element 63B.

[0441] Most preferably, the indicator device 61 is adapted to perform the full rotation / actuation / counting steps and / or count the extraction and / or atomization of a certain dose of liquid 2 only when the sprayer 1 has been fully tensioned / loaded and further after the dispensing process has been completed (i.e., during atomization).

[0442] Specifically, when the container 3, pump piston 31 and / or indicator element 62 successively reach two axial (end) positions, the indicator device 61 completes only one rotation / actuation step and / or only counts the extraction and / or atomization of a certain dose of liquid 2.

[0443] In other words, the movement of container 3, pump piston 31, and / or indicator element 62 to its first / lower axial position or its second / upper axial position only causes indicator element 62 to move / rotate to the middle and / or move / rotate forward by half a (counting) step. In this way, incomplete tensioning of sprayer 1 (even if performed several times consecutively) will not be counted as usage of sprayer 1 / container 3, and therefore will not contribute to / manipulate the indicated number of uses already performed or still possible for container 3 or volume 4. Therefore, incorrect handling of sprayer 1 will not lead to incorrect counting.

[0444] As already mentioned, indicator element 62 preferably includes or forms pump piston 31, or vice versa.

[0445] Preferably, the indicator housing 64 includes or forms the cylinder 32, or vice versa.

[0446] Specifically, the (axial) movement of the pump piston 31 is used to actuate the indicator device 61 (i.e., indicator element 62) and / or to count or indicate the number of uses that have been performed or that the container 3 can still perform.

[0447] In other words, the indicator device 61 is preferably integrated into and / or actuated with and / or driven by the air pump 30. This allows for a simple structure of the sprayer 1.

[0448] The sprayer 1, and especially the indicator device 61, preferably includes a blocking device 65, wherein the blocking device 65 is adapted to preferably prevent further use of the sprayer 1 or container 3 in a locked state when the current container 3 has reached or exceeded a predetermined number of uses.

[0449] Most preferably, the container 3 can be removed / replaced (only) along with the housing component 18, the air pump 30, the insert 33, the indicator device 61, and / or the blocking device 65.

[0450] The functionality of the blocking device 65 will be referenced below. Figure 25 and 26 Describe, Figure 25 and 26 A partial cross-section of the sprayer 1 along axis A is shown.

[0451] Preferably, the blocking device 65 is integrated into the indicator device 61, and particularly into the indicator element 62.

[0452] The blocking device 65 preferably includes a first blocking element 65A, a second blocking element 65B and / or a spring 65C, wherein the spring 65C is preferably arranged between the first blocking element 65A and the second blocking element 65B and / or pressed against the two blocking elements 65A and 65B.

[0453] Preferably, the indicator device 61, and in particular the indicator element 62, includes an opening 65D, wherein the blocking device 65 is at least partially arranged in the opening 65D and / or wherein the opening 65D extends radially and / or extends from one side to the other in the indicator element 62.

[0454] Most preferably, the blocking device 65 rotates together with the indicator element 62. However, other construction solutions are also possible, such as in which the blocking device 65 is arranged in the sleeve 20 and / or the insert 33.

[0455] Preferably, the spring 65C presses the first blocking element 65A against the housing component 18, the cylinder 32, the insert 33 and / or the indicator housing 64, and / or presses the second blocking element 65B against the container 3, especially its sleeve 20.

[0456] Preferably, the force applied by the spring 65C does not interfere with the movement of the indicator element 62 or the pump piston 31 relative to the container 3, the sleeve 20, the housing component 18, the cylinder 32, the insert 33 and / or the indicator housing 64.

[0457] Figure 25 The blocking device 65 is shown in the unlocked state (i.e., when movement of the indicator device 61 or the pump piston 31 relative to the container 3, sleeve 20, cylinder 32, insert 33 and / or indicator housing 64 is possible and / or not blocked by the blocking device 65).

[0458] When a certain amount of actuation, operation, or dispensing dose of liquid 2 has been reached or exceeded, especially when the indicator element 62 (starting from the delivery / unused state of sprayer 1) has been rotated more than 180° or 270° and / or less than 350°, the blocking device 65 blocks / locks sprayer 1 to prevent (further) actuation or use. The locked state of sprayer 1 is as follows: Figure 26 As shown in the image.

[0459] The indicator element 62 can rotate about axis A and / or relative to the container 3, sleeve 20, housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33 and / or indicator housing 64 until the blocking device 65 (especially its blocking elements 65A, 65B) preferably engages with the container 3, housing component 18, sleeve 20, cylinder 32, insert 33 and / or indicator housing 64 in a form-fitting manner.

[0460] Preferably, the housing component 18, cylinder 32, insert 33 and / or indicator housing 64 include a first recess 65E, and / or the container 3, especially the sleeve 20, includes a second recess 65F. Preferably, the first recess 65E is adapted to receive a first blocking element 65A, and the second recess 65F is adapted to receive a second blocking element 65B, at least in the locked state and / or when the current container 3 has reached or exceeded a predetermined number of uses.

[0461] In other words, the blocking device 65 is adapted to establish a form-fitting connection between the pump piston 31 / indicator element 62 and the container 3 / sleeve 20 on one side, particularly by pushing the second blocking element 65B into the second recess 65F, and on the other hand, particularly by pushing the first blocking element 65A into the first recess 65E, to establish a form-fitting connection between the pump piston 31 / indicator element 62 and the housing component 18 / cylinder 32 / insert 33 / indicator housing 64.

[0462] The various features, aspects and / or principles of the described implementation scheme can also be combined with each other as needed, and can be used specifically in the sprayer 1 shown, but can also be used in similar or different sprayers.

[0463] Unlike stand-alone devices, the proposed sprayer 1 is preferably designed to be portable, and in particular a mobile, manually operated device.

[0464] However, the proposed solution can be used not only for the sprayer 1 specifically described herein, but also for other sprayers or inhalers or other devices for delivering liquid formulations.

[0465] Preferably, liquid 2 is an aqueous or ethanol-based pharmaceutical formulation. However, it can also be some other pharmaceutical formulation, suspension, etc.

[0466] Preferably, the description of liquid should be broadly understood to include any kind of liquid such as suspension, solution, liquefaction formulation, etc.

[0467] Preferably, liquid 2 has a low vapor pressure and / or a high boiling point, especially above 80°C or 90°C.

[0468] Preferably, liquid 2 is propellant-free.

[0469] Preferred ingredients and / or formulations of preferred pharmaceutical liquid 2 are specifically set forth in WO 2009 / 115200 A1, preferably on pages 25 to 40, or in paragraphs 0040 to 0087 of EP 2 614 848 A1, which are incorporated herein by reference. Specifically, these may be aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, mixtures, formulations containing ethanol or containing no solvent, etc.

[0470] In addition, the following are independent aspects of the present invention:

[0471] 1. A sprayer (1) for atomizing a liquid (2), comprising:

[0472] Preferably, a replaceable container (3) is used, which holds multiple doses of the liquid (2);

[0473] A fluid pump (5) is used to extract a certain dose of the liquid (2) from the container (3) and pressurize the corresponding dose for atomization;

[0474] An air pump (30), associated with the container (3), is used to pressurize the liquid (2) in the container (3) to help extract a certain amount of the liquid (2) from the container (3); and

[0475] Preferably, the housing component (18) is detachable or openable from the sprayer (1) to insert or replace the container (3);

[0476] Its features

[0477] The air pump (30) includes or forms a piston / cylinder device for pumping air into the container (3) to help extract a certain amount of the liquid (2) from the container (3).

[0478] 2. The sprayer according to aspect 1, characterized in that the air pump (30) is arranged in the housing component (18).

[0479] 3. The sprayer according to aspect 1 or 2, characterized in that the air pump (30) can be connected to or connected to the outer sleeve (20), base (22) and / or vent (23) of the container (3).

[0480] 4. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that the air pump (30) is actuated by the relative movement of the container (3) within the housing (19) of the sprayer (1).

[0481] 5. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that, when a certain dose of liquid (2) is drawn out and / or when a certain dose of said liquid (2) is pressurized or dispensed, the container (3) is preferably capable of a stroke-like motion in the sprayer (1).

[0482] 6. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that the container (3) drives the pump piston (31) of the air pump (30), preferably cooperating with or being movable therein with the housing component (18) or associated cylinder (32) or insert (33).

[0483] 7. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that, during the use of the sprayer (1), the air pump (30) is only temporarily connected to the container (3).

[0484] 8. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that the relative motion of the container (3) controls the temporary pneumatic connection between the container (3) and the air pump (30).

[0485] 9. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that the air pump (30) includes a seal (35) for temporary connection to the container (3) or its sleeve (20) or base (22).

[0486] 10. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that when the sprayer (1) is not tensioned or after dispensing a dose of liquid (2), its air pump (30) or port (34) or seal (35) is preferably axially spaced from the container (3).

[0487] 11. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, characterized in that the container (3) forms the pump piston (31) of the air pump (30), preferably cooperating with or being movable therein with the housing component (18) or the associated cylinder (32) or insert (33).

[0488] 12. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that, during use of the sprayer (1), the air pump (30) and the fluid pump (5) alternately pressurize, especially when the sprayer (1) is tensioned or loaded, the air pump (30) pressurizes the air, and the fluid pump (5) pressurizes the liquid (2) when dispensing or atomizing a certain dose of liquid (2).

[0489] 13. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that the sprayer (1) or air pump (30) includes a valve (40) which limits or controls the maximum air pressure and / or prevents any negative pressure in the air pump (30) or its pump chamber (39).

[0490] 14. The sprayer according to any one of the foregoing aspects, characterized in that the container (3) comprises a collapsible bag (4) containing the liquid (2).

[0491] 15. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 1 to 13, characterized in that the container (3) comprises a rigid sleeve (20) and a fluid piston (28) movable therein, forming a space for directly receiving the liquid (2).

[0492] 16. A sprayer (1) for atomizing liquid (2), comprising:

[0493] Container (3), which contains multiple doses of the liquid (2),

[0494] A housing component (18) for receiving the container (3), wherein the container (3) preferably undergoes a stroke-like motion within the housing component (18) for drawing a dose of the liquid (2) from the container (3) and pressurizing it to a corresponding metering for atomization, and

[0495] An indicator device (61) for counting or indicating the number of times the container (3) has been used or may still be used, wherein the indicator device (61) includes an indicator element (62) and an actuator (63) for actuating and / or directly and progressively moving the indicator element (62).

[0496] Its features

[0497] The indicator element (62) is rotatably and inseparably connected to the container (3) or its sleeve (20), and the actuator (63) is rigidly connected to the housing component (18).

[0498] 17. The sprayer according to aspect 16, characterized in that the container (3) is replaceable.

[0499] 18. The sprayer according to aspect 17, characterized in that, when the container (3) is replaced, only a portion of the indicator device (61) is replaced and the indicator device (61) is reset by replacing the container (3).

[0500] 19. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 18, characterized in that the indicator device (61) includes an indicator housing (64), which preferably has a window (64A), wherein the indicator housing (64) is formed or inseparably connected to the housing component (18).

[0501] 20. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 19, characterized in that the indicator element (62) extends annularly and / or around the container (3), in particular its sleeve (20).

[0502] 21. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 20, characterized in that the indicator element (62) is directly connected to the container (3) or its sleeve (20), preferably in a form-fit manner, and / or the indicator element (62) includes or forms the axial end of the container (3).

[0503] 22. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 21, characterized in that the actuator (63) is adapted to rotate the indicator element (62) in steps and / or in counting steps relative to the container (3) and / or the housing component (18) to count the use made through the container (3).

[0504] 23. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 22, characterized in that the indicator element (62) includes at least one toothed ring (62A, 62B) and the actuator (63) includes at least one actuating element (63A, 63B), preferably wherein the actuating element (63A, 63B) is adapted to interact directly with the at least one toothed ring (62A, 62B).

[0505] 24. The sprayer according to aspect 23, characterized in that the toothed ring (62A, 62B) includes a serrated structure, and the actuating element (63A, 63B) includes an inclined surface for interacting with the serrated structure.

[0506] 25. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 24, characterized in that the actuator (63), in particular its actuating elements (63A, 63B), is adapted to rotate the indicator element (62), in particular its gear rings (62A, 62B), when the container (3) is in the axial end position.

[0507] 26. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 25, characterized in that the actuator (63), in particular its actuating elements (63A, 63B), is adapted to rotate the indicator element (62) by half a counting step when the container (3) is in the axial end position.

[0508] 27. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 26, characterized in that the indicator element (62) comprises two toothed rings (62A, 62B), preferably wherein the toothed rings (62A, 62B) are axially spaced apart from each other and / or oriented in opposite axial directions.

[0509] 28. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 27, characterized in that the actuator (63) comprises two actuating elements (63A, 63B), preferably wherein the two actuating elements (63A, 63B) are axially spaced apart from each other and / or oriented in opposite axial directions.

[0510] 29. The sprayer according to aspect 28, characterized in that when the container (3) is in the first axial (end) position, especially at half of the counting step, the first actuating element (63A) is adapted to rotate the indicator element (62), especially by its first gear (62A), and when the container (3) is in the second axial (end) position, especially at half of the counting step, the second actuating element (63B) is adapted to rotate the indicator element (62), especially by its gear (62B).

[0511] 30. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 29, characterized in that the sprayer (1) includes a blocking device (65) adapted to block further use of the sprayer (1) or the container (3) when a preset number is reached or the current container (3) is exceeded.

[0512] 31. The sprayer according to aspect 30, characterized in that the blocking device (65) is adapted to block the movement of the indicator element (62) relative to the container (3) or its sleeve (20) and / or relative to the housing component (18).

[0513] 32. The sprayer according to aspect 30 or 31, characterized in that the blocking device (65) is adapted to connect the container (3), in particular its sleeve (20) and the housing component (18) in a form-fitting manner, preferably extending radially through the indicator element (62) by at least one blocking element (65A, 65B).

[0514] 33. The sprayer according to any one of aspects 16 to 32, characterized in that the sprayer (1) includes an air pump (30) for pressurizing the liquid (2) in the container (3) to help extract a dose of the liquid (2) from the container (3).

[0515] 34. The sprayer according to aspect 33, characterized in that the air pump (30) includes a pump piston (31) and a cylinder (32), wherein the indicator element (62) includes or forms the pump piston (31).

[0516] 35. The sprayer according to aspect 33 or 34, characterized in that a complete pump cycle of the air pump (30) corresponds to a counting step of the indicator device (61).

[0517] List of reference numerals

[0518] 1 sprayer 38 Support components 2 liquids 39 Pump Room 3 containers 40 valve 3A (Container) Depression 41 Discharge Channel 4 Variable / collapseable volume 42 valve components 5. Pressure generator / fluid pump 42A Flexible Components 6 Holders 43 Intake valve / Check valve 7 drive springs 44 control valve 8 blocking elements 45 opening 9 delivery pipes 46 channels 10 Check Valve 47 channels 11 pressure chambers 48 Exit Openings 12 nozzles 49 Modified End 13 Beak 50 Support / Throttling Elements 14 Aerosols 51 Actuating Components 15 gas supply openings 52 ventilation channels 16 Upper housing components 53 Central opening 17 Internal Components 54 (Pump piston) seals Upper part of the internal components of 17A 55 Opening device The lower part of the internal components of 17B 56 Opening Components 17C holding element 57 Sealing device 18. Housing components (lower part) 58 grooves 18A inflation device 59 Pressure Control Device 18B (recess) of the housing component 60 pressure relief device 19 Sprayer housing 61 Indicator Device 20 (external) sleeve 62 indicator elements 20A (sleeve) groove 62A First Gear Ring 21 heads 62B Second Gear 22 bases 62C mark 23 Vent holes 63 actuator 24 Outer / Inner Housing 63A First Actuation Element 25 closure 63B Second Actuation Element 26 (Container) Seals 64 Indicator Housing 27 Ventilation opening 64A window 28 fluid piston 65 blocking device 28A (Fluid piston) First recess 65A First Blocking Element 28B (second recess of fluid piston) 65B Second Blocking Element 29 (Seals for fluid pistons) 65C (stopping device) spring 30 air pump 65D opening 31 pump piston 65E First Depression 31A (pump piston) protrusion 65F Second Depression 32 cylinders 33 inserts Axis A 33A stop C-curve 33B (the protrusion of the insert) PA environmental pressure Port 34 P1 First maximum value 35 (port) seal P2 Second Maximum Value 36 return springs X-axis 37 Support components Y-axis

[0519] More specifically, this application provides the following:

[0520] 1. A sprayer (1) for atomizing a liquid (2), comprising:

[0521] Preferably, a replaceable container (3) is used, which holds multiple doses of the liquid (2).

[0522] A fluid pump (5) is used to draw a certain dose of the liquid (2) from the container (3) and pressurize the corresponding dose for atomization.

[0523] An air pump (30) is used to pressurize the liquid (2) in the container (3) to help extract a certain amount of the liquid (2) from the container (3), and

[0524] Preferably, the housing component (18) is detachable or openable from the sprayer (1) to allow insertion or replacement of the container (3).

[0525] Its features are,

[0526] The air pump (30) includes or forms a piston / cylinder device for pumping air into the container (3) to help extract a certain amount of the liquid (2) from the container (3).

[0527] 2. The sprayer according to item 1, characterized in that the air pump (30) is arranged in the housing component (18).

[0528] 3. The sprayer according to item 1 or 2, characterized in that the air pump (30) is particularly pneumatically connectable to or connected to the outer sleeve (20), base (22) and / or vent (23) of the container (3).

[0529] 4. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the air pump (30) is actuated by the movement of the container (3) within or relative to the housing component (18) and / or housing (19) of the sprayer (1).

[0530] 5. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that, when a dose of liquid (2) is drawn out and / or when a dose of said liquid (2) is pressurized or dispensed, the container (3) preferably makes a stroke-like movement in the sprayer (1).

[0531] 6. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the air pump (30) includes a pump piston (31) and a cylinder (32), wherein the pump piston (31) is axially movable within the cylinder (32).

[0532] 7. The sprayer according to item 6, characterized in that the cylinder (32) is formed by the housing component (18) or an insert (33) engaged therewith.

[0533] 8. The sprayer according to item 6 or 7, characterized in that the sprayer (1), in particular the air pump (30), includes a sealing device (57) acting between the pump piston (31) and the cylinder (32), wherein the sealing effect of the sealing device (57) depends on the direction of movement of the pump piston (31) relative to the cylinder (32), and in particular wherein the sealing device (57) is adapted to increase the sealing effect during the extraction of a dose of liquid (2) from the container (3) and to reduce the sealing effect when the dose of liquid (2) is pressurized for atomization.

[0534] 9. The sprayer according to any one of items 6 to 8, characterized in that the air pump (30), in particular the sealing device (57), includes a preferably resilient seal (54) that acts between the pump piston (31) and the cylinder (32), wherein the seal (54) is movably attached to the pump piston (31).

[0535] 10. The sprayer according to item 9, characterized in that the sealing effect of the sealing device (57), in particular its seal (54), depends on the position of the seal (54), in particular the position relative to the pump piston (31).

[0536] 11. The sprayer according to item 9 or 10, characterized in that the air pump (30), in particular the sealing device (57) or pump piston (31), includes a groove (58) for the seal (54), wherein the groove (58) is tapered and / or includes a variable depth, such that the sealing effect varies depending on the position of the seal (54) within the groove (58).

[0537] 12. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that, during the use of the sprayer (1), the air pump (30) and the fluid pump (5) alternately pressurize.

[0538] 13. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the sprayer (1), in particular the air pump (30), includes a pressure relief device (60) to reduce the air pressure in the air pump (30) or its pump chamber (39), wherein the pressure relief device (60) is adapted to open automatically depending on the position of the pump piston (31) in the cylinder (32) of the air pump (30).

[0539] 14. The sprayer according to item 13, characterized in that the pressure relief device (60) is implemented as a bypass channel integrated in the air pump (30), in particular its pump piston (31) or cylinder (32).

[0540] 15. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the sprayer (1) or air pump (30) includes a control valve (40) which limits or controls the maximum air pressure and / or prevents any negative pressure in the air pump (30) or its pump chamber (39), preferably, wherein the opening of the control valve (40) is pressure-related.

[0541] 16. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the container (3), in particular its outer sleeve (20), acts on and / or drives the pump piston (31).

[0542] 17. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that, during the use of the sprayer (1), the air pump (30) is only temporarily, in particular pneumatically and / or mechanically connected to the container (3), especially only during the process of drawing a dose of liquid (2) from the container (3).

[0543] 18. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the movement of the container (3) controls the temporary pneumatic connection between the container (3) and the air pump (30).

[0544] 19. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the air pump (30), in particular its pump piston (31), includes a seal (35) for temporary connection to the container (3) or its sleeve (20) or base (22).

[0545] 20. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that when the sprayer (1) is not tensioned or after dispensing a dose of liquid (2), its air pump (30) or port (34) or seal (35) is preferably axially spaced from the container (3).

[0546] 21. The sprayer according to any one of items 1 to 15, characterized in that the container (3), in particular its axial end, includes or forms a pump piston (31) of the air pump (30).

[0547] 22. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the container (3) comprises a collapsible bag (4) containing the liquid (2).

[0548] 23. The sprayer according to any one of items 1 to 21, characterized in that the container (3) comprises a rigid sleeve (20) and a fluid piston (28) movable within the sleeve (20).

[0549] 24. The sprayer according to item 23, characterized in that the fluid piston (28) and the sleeve (20) form a volume (4) for containing the liquid (2), wherein the volume (4) is reduced or can be reduced by axial movement of the fluid piston (28) within the sleeve (20).

[0550] 25. The sprayer according to item 23 or 24, characterized in that the container (3) includes a seal (29) acting between the fluid piston (28) and the sleeve (20), wherein the fluid piston (28) and the seal (29) are integrally formed.

[0551] 26. The sprayer according to any one of items 23 to 25, characterized in that the fluid piston (28) includes a (first) central recess (28A) on the side opposite to the volume (4) and / or includes a (second) central recess (28B) on the side facing the volume (4).

[0552] 27. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the sprayer (1) includes an indicator device (61) for counting or indicating the number of times the container (3) has been used or may still be used, wherein the indicator device (61) includes a preferably annular indicator element (62) and an actuator (63) for actuating the indicator element (62).

[0553] 28. The sprayer according to item 27, characterized in that the indicator device (61) is integrated into the air pump (30) and / or actuated together with the air pump (30).

[0554] 29. The sprayer according to item 27 or 28, characterized in that the indicator element (62) is rotatably connected to the container (3), in particular its sleeve (20).

[0555] 30. The sprayer according to any one of items 27 to 29, characterized in that the indicator element (62) comprises or forms the pump piston (31).

[0556] 31. The sprayer according to any one of items 27 to 30, characterized in that when the container (3) or the pump piston (31) reaches a first axial (end) position and when the container (3) or the pump piston (31) reaches a second axial (end) position, the actuator (63) is adapted to incrementally rotate the indicator element (62).

[0557] 32. The sprayer according to any one of claims 27 to 31, characterized in that the indicator element (62) comprises two toothed rings (62A, 62B) oriented in opposite axial directions and / or the actuator (63) comprises two actuating elements (63A, 63B) oriented in opposite axial directions, preferably wherein each actuating element (63A, 63B) interacts with a different toothed ring (62A, 62B).

[0558] 33. The sprayer according to any one of items 27 to 32, characterized in that the sprayer (1) includes a blocking device (65) adapted to block further use of the sprayer (1) or the container (3) in a locked state when a preset number is reached or the current container (3) is exceeded.

[0559] 34. The sprayer according to item 33, characterized in that the blocking device (65) is adapted to block the movement of the indicator element (62) relative to the container (3) or its sleeve (20) and / or relative to the housing component (18) of the sprayer (1).

[0560] 35. The sprayer according to item 33 or 34, characterized in that the blocking device (65) is adapted to connect the container (3), in particular its sleeve (20), and the housing component (18) in a form-fitting manner, preferably extending radially through the indicator element (62) via the blocking element (65A, 65B).

[0561] 36. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the sprayer (1), in particular the air pump (30) or the housing component (18), includes or forms an opening device (55) adapted to open a seal (26) sealing the axial end of the container (3).

[0562] 37. The sprayer according to any one of the preceding items, characterized in that the cylinder (32), the control valve (40), the sealing device (57) and / or the opening device (55) are integrally formed.

Claims

1. A sprayer (1) for atomizing a liquid (2), comprising: Container (3), which contains multiple doses of the liquid (2), A housing component (18) for receiving the container (3), wherein the container (3) undergoes a stroke within the housing component (18) to extract a certain dose of the liquid (2) from the container (3) and pressurize the corresponding dose for atomization, and An indicator device (61) for counting or indicating the number of times the container (3) has been used or may still be used, wherein the indicator device (61) includes an indicator element (62) and an actuator (63) for actuating and / or directly and progressively moving the indicator element (62). The indicator element (62) is rotatably and inseparably connected to the container (3) or the sleeve (20) of the container (3) and configured to move axially together with the container (3), and the actuator (63) is rigidly connected to the housing component (18). Its features are, The actuator (63) includes two actuating elements (63A, 63B), wherein the two actuating elements (63A, 63B) are axially spaced apart from each other, and The actuating elements (63A, 63B) are adapted to rotate the indicator element (62) or the gear ring (62A, 62B) of the indicator element (62) by half a counting step when the container (3) is in the axial end position, and The actuating elements (63A, 63B) interact with the indicator element (62) only when the indicator element (62) approaches the first axial position and the second axial position, respectively.

2. The sprayer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indicator device (61) includes an indicator housing (64), wherein the indicator housing (64) is formed by the housing component (18) or wherein the indicator housing (64) is inseparably and rigidly or inseparably and immovably connected to the housing component (18).

3. The sprayer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The indicator housing (64) has a window (64A).

4. The sprayer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The indicator housing (64) includes or forms the actuator (63).

5. The sprayer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sprayer (1) includes an air pump (30) for pressurizing the liquid (2) in the container (3) to help extract a certain dose of the liquid (2) from the container (3), wherein The air pump (30) includes a pump piston (31) and a cylinder (32).

6. The sprayer according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sprayer (1) includes an air pump (30) for pressurizing the liquid (2) in the container (3) to help extract a certain dose of the liquid (2) from the container (3), wherein The air pump (30) includes a pump piston (31) and a cylinder (32).

7. The sprayer according to claim 6, wherein the indicator element (62) comprises or forms the pump piston (31), and / or, The indicator housing (64) includes or forms the cylinder (32).

8. The sprayer according to claim 6, wherein the pump piston (31) includes or forms an indicator element (62), and / or, The cylinder (32) includes or forms the indicator housing (64).

9. The sprayer according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, One complete pump cycle of the air pump (30) corresponds to one counting step of the indicator device (61).

10. The sprayer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The container (3) is replaceable.

11. The sprayer according to claim 10, characterized in that, When the container (3) is replaced, only a portion of the indicator device (61) is replaced and the indicator device (61) is reset by replacing the container (3).

12. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (62) is annular and / or extends around the container (3).

13. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (62) extends in a ring and / or around a sleeve (20) surrounding the container (3).

14. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (62) is directly connected to the container (3) or the sleeve (20) of the container (3), and / or the indicator element (62) includes or forms the axial end of the container (3).

15. The sprayer according to claim 14, characterized in that, The indicator element (62) is directly connected to the container (3) or the sleeve (20) of the container (3) in a form-fit manner.

16. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The actuator (63) is adapted to rotate the indicator element (62) stepwise and / or in counting steps relative to the container (3) and / or the housing component (18) to count the use performed on the container (3).

17. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The two actuating elements (63A, 63B) are oriented in opposite axial directions.

18. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (62) includes at least one toothed ring (62A, 62B), wherein at least one of the actuating elements (63A, 63B) is adapted to interact directly with the at least one toothed ring (62A, 62B).

19. The sprayer according to claim 18, characterized in that, The gear rings (62A, 62B) include a sawtooth structure, and the at least one actuating element (63A, 63B) includes an inclined surface for interacting with the sawtooth structure.

20. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (62) includes two toothed rings (62A, 62B).

21. The sprayer according to claim 20, characterized in that, The gear rings (62A, 62B) are axially spaced apart from each other and / or oriented in opposite axial directions.

22. The sprayer according to claim 20, characterized in that, When the container (3) is in the first axial position at halfway through the counting step, the first actuating element (63A) is adapted to rotate the indicator element (62) via its first gear ring (62A), and when the container (3) is in the second axial position at halfway through the counting step, the second actuating element (63B) is adapted to rotate the indicator element (62) via its gear ring (62B).

23. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sprayer (1) includes a blocking device (65) adapted to block further use of the sprayer (1) or container (3) when the current container (3) has reached or exceeded a predetermined number of uses.

24. The sprayer according to claim 23, characterized in that, The blocking device (65) is adapted to block the movement of the indicator element (62) relative to the container (3) or the sleeve (20) of the container (3), and / or The blocking device (65) is adapted to block the movement of the indicator element (62) relative to the housing component (18).

25. The sprayer according to claim 23, characterized in that, The blocking device (65) is adapted to connect the container (3) and the shell component (18) in a form-fitting manner.

26. The sprayer according to claim 23, characterized in that, The blocking device (65) is adapted to connect the sleeve (20) of the container (3) and the shell component (18) in a form-fitting manner.

27. The sprayer according to claim 23, characterized in that, The blocking device (65) is adapted to extend radially through the indicator element (62) via at least one blocking element (65A, 65B) and to connect the container (3) and the shell component (18) in a form-fitting manner.

28. The sprayer according to claim 23, characterized in that, The blocking device (65) is adapted to extend radially through the indicator element (62) via at least one blocking element (65A, 65B) and to connect the sleeve (20) of the container (3) and the shell component (18) in a form-fitting manner.

Images