Dispensing pump with polymer spring, base vent, and flow baffle

Abstract

A dispensing pump (1000) includes a polymer compression spring (1048), a base vent (1060), and a flow baffle (1092). The dispensing pump includes a pump base (1002) and a dispensing head (1004) having a piston rod (1034). The polymer compression spring assembly includes a slotted tubular spring element (1048) and a first and second load cone received at opposite ends of the slotted tubular spring element. The vent allows air to escape when the container is capped after filling, and the flow baffle reduces or prevents product from being drawn into the pump accumulator during the initial suction lift before residual air (headspace) is vented from the container.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] (1) Technical Field: The present invention generally relates to dispensing pumps for liquids, viscous flowable materials, foams, gels, etc., and more particularly to a dispensing pump having a polymer compression spring assembly.

[0002] (2) Background Art: Dispensing pumps for various liquids, emulsions, foams, gels, etc., are known in the art. These dispensing pumps typically include a body portion located at the neck of the container, a cooperating nozzle portion sliding relative to the body portion, and a spring structure that biases the cooperating nozzle portion to its normal rest position. To dispense material from the container, the user manually presses down the nozzle, which forces the material from the inside of the body portion through the nozzle. When the nozzle is released, the spring forces the nozzle portion back to its normal rest position. Apart from the spring, which is typically made of metal, most of the pump system components are typically made of polymer materials. These plastic pump components are readily recyclable. However, it has been found that the presence of the metal spring in the pump assembly hinders or slows down the recycling process because it is necessary to separate the metal spring from other plastic components. Accordingly, there is a need in the industry for dispensing pump systems that include all-plastic spring assemblies. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An exemplary embodiment of a dispensing pump for liquids, viscous materials, foams, gels, etc., includes a polymer compression spring assembly that allows for easier pump recycling. The dispensing pump includes a pump base and a dispensing head having an associated piston rod. The polymer compression spring assembly includes a slotted tubular spring element formed of a stretched polymer material, and a first load cone and a second load cone received at opposite first and second ends of the slotted tubular spring element. The piston rod extends coaxially through the first load cone (which is fixed to or within the pump base) and the second load cone (which is axially movable with respect to the piston rod and the dispensing head). The tubular spring element is coaxially disposed between the first and second load cones about the piston rod. When the dispensing head is compressed, these load cones are axially compressed towards each other within the slotted tubular spring element, whereby the slotted tubular spring element expands radially under tension to generate opposing radial contraction forces, and thus an axially extending spring force. When released, the spring element elastically returns to its normal rest shape, thereby restoring the load cone and the distribution head to their normal rest positions.

[0004] An exemplary embodiment of the compression spring assembly according to the present invention includes a slotted tubular spring element formed of a stretch polymer material, and a first load cone and a second load cone received at opposite first and second ends of the slotted tubular spring element. In some embodiments, both the spring element and the load cone may be formed of a polymer material, thereby making the spring assembly more recyclable.

[0005] In an exemplary embodiment, the slotted tubular spring element is cylindrical in shape and has a uniform wall thickness. The load cone is generally conical in shape and preferably has at least one wall section with a wall angle of not less than 11 degrees. Wall angles less than 11 degrees tend to produce frictional locking, while wall angles greater than 11 degrees minimize the stroke length and increase the overall diameter of the spring assembly. An exemplary embodiment includes load cones having a first truncated conical preload wall section (with a wall angle greater than 11 degrees) and a second truncated conical main load wall section (with a wall angle of 11 degrees).

[0006] The load cones can be axially compressed towards each other within the open end of a slotted tubular spring element, thereby causing the slotted tubular spring element to expand radially under tension, producing opposing radial contraction forces. The deformation of the tubular spring wall elastically stores energy, which causes the spring to return to its normal resting shape when the spring is released. Upon release, the spring element elastically contracts, generating an axial extension force and restoring these cones to their normal resting position.

[0007] Some embodiments of the spring assembly include an improved spring element having stress-reducing ribs extending along opposite edges of a longitudinal slot. These ribs may include outwardly convex surfaces extending radially and circumferentially outward from the slot edges. This embodiment further includes a thinner first wall thickness at the slot edges and a thicker second wall thickness diametrically opposite the slot edges. The arcuate surfaces, with increasing wall thickness away from the slot edges, distribute stress more evenly within the spring element, extending the lifespan of the spring element.

[0008] Other embodiments of the spring assembly may include a spring element with a hyperboloid shape.

[0009] Another embodiment of the spring element has thicker wall sections in selected locations and reinforcing ribs that extend circumferentially around the spring and / or longitudinally along the spring height opposite to the slot.

[0010] Some exemplary embodiments of the dispensing pump may include a pump base having ventilation ports around a peripheral sealing wall to allow air to escape when the container is capped after filling.

[0011] Some exemplary embodiments of the distribution pump may include a flow baffle disposed above the inlet port of the pump base to reduce or prevent product from being drawn into the pump accumulator during the initial suction lift, before residual air (headspace) is vented from the container.

[0012] In some exemplary embodiments, all components of both the dispensing pump and the compression spring assembly are molded from the same plastic material, thereby making the entire dispensing pump easily recyclable from a single plastic material. Exemplary plastic materials include polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). However, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to these materials. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Although the specification concludes with claims that specifically point out and explicitly claim protection for particular embodiments of the invention, the various embodiments of the invention can be more readily understood and appreciated from the following description of different embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 This is a plan view of an exemplary compression spring assembly according to the present invention;

[0015] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a tubular spring element with a slot in a stationary state;

[0016] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a tubular spring element with a slot under radial expansion.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a top view of the spring element;

[0018] Figure 5 This is its front view;

[0019] Figure 6 This is its side view;

[0020] Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken by line 7-7;

[0021] Figure 8 This is an enlarged plan view of the load cone;

[0022] Figures 9 to 12 It is a continuous view of the compression spring assembly being axially loaded and released;

[0023] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary dispensing pump that includes this compression spring assembly;

[0024] Figure 14 This is a front view of another exemplary embodiment of a slotted tubular spring element including stress-reducing ribs;

[0025] Figure 15 This is its top view;

[0026] Figure 16 This is its side view;

[0027] Figure 17 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the radially expanded form;

[0028] Figure 18 and Figure 19 These are its side and front views, showing the bending vectors of these ribs as the spring element expands;

[0029] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating the initial axial compression of the spring assembly;

[0030] Figure 21 This is another illustration showing the full axial compression of the spring assembly;

[0031] Figure 22 This is a plan view of another exemplary compression spring assembly including a hyperboloid spring element;

[0032] Figure 23 It is a three-dimensional view of a hyperboloid spring element with a slot;

[0033] Figure 24 This is its front view;

[0034] Figure 25 This is its top view;

[0035] Figure 26 It is along Figure 25 The cross-sectional view taken by line 26-26; and

[0036] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of an exemplary dispensing pump including a hyperboloid compression spring assembly;

[0037] Figure 28 It is along Figure 27 The cross-sectional view taken by line 28-28;

[0038] Figure 29 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment;

[0039] Figure 30 It is along Figure 29 The cross-sectional view taken from line 30-30;

[0040] Figures 31 to 34 are cross-sectional views of another exemplary embodiment;

[0041] Figure 35 is a perspective view of a preferred exemplary embodiment;

[0042] Figure 36 is its front view;

[0043] Figure 37 It is its exploded three-dimensional diagram;

[0044] Figure 38 It is a cross-sectional view taken along line 38-38 of Figure 36;

[0045] Figure 39 This is a plan view of the accumulator;

[0046] Figure 40 It is along Figure 39 The cross-sectional view is taken from line 40-40;

[0047] Figure 41 This is a plan view of the second load cone;

[0048] Figure 42 It is along Figure 41 The cross-sectional view taken by line 42-42; and

[0049] Figures 43 to 48 This is a cross-sectional view showing the complete pump stroke sequence;

[0050] Figure 49 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment;

[0051] Figure 50 It is its exploded three-dimensional diagram;

[0052] Figure 51 This is its cross-sectional view;

[0053] Figures 52 and 53 are perspective views of the compression spring assembly;

[0054] Figures 54 to 58 These are various views of the spring element;

[0055] Figures 59 to 64 This is a cross-sectional view showing the complete actuation cycle and motion of the dispensing head and spring;

[0056] Figure 65 This is a perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment including a flow baffle and a base vent.

[0057] Figure 66 It is its exploded three-dimensional diagram;

[0058] Figures 67 to 69 These are various views of the base;

[0059] Figure 70 and Figure 71 These are various views of the flow baffle;

[0060] Figure 72 is a bottom view of a distribution head assembled with flow baffles;

[0061] Figure 73 is along Figure 65 The cross-sectional view of the distribution head taken from line 73-73.

[0062] Figure 74 is another cross-sectional view, which also shows the container and piston follower;

[0063] Figure 75 This is a perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment;

[0064] Figure 76 It is its exploded three-dimensional diagram;

[0065] Figures 77 to 78 These are various views of the flow baffle;

[0066] Figure 79 is a bottom view of a distribution head assembled with flow baffles;

[0067] Figure 80 is along Figure 75 A cross-sectional view of the distribution head taken from line 80-80;

[0068] Figure 81 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment;

[0069] Figure 82 It is its exploded three-dimensional diagram;

[0070] Figures 83 to 84 These are various views of the flow baffle;

[0071] Figure 85 This is a bottom view of a distribution head equipped with flow baffles;

[0072] Figure 86 It is along Figure 81 A cross-sectional view of the distribution head taken from line 86-86;

[0073] Figure 87 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment including the base vent, as well as an alternative inlet port and a flat valve;

[0074] Figure 88 It is its exploded three-dimensional diagram;

[0075] Figures 89 to 91 Various views of the pump base and disc valve; and

[0076] Figure 92 It is along Figure 87 The cross-sectional view of the pump base taken from line 92-92. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Now, referring to the attached diagram, Figures 1 to 12The exemplary embodiment of this compression spring assembly is generally indicated by 10. According to the invention, the compression spring assembly 10 includes a slotted tubular spring element 12 formed of a stretched polymer material, and a first load cone 14 and a second load cone 16 received at opposite first and second ends of the slotted tubular spring element 12. In some embodiments, depending on the implementation, the load cones 14, 16 may be formed of a non-plastic material. However, in the preferred embodiments disclosed herein, both the spring element 12 and the load cones 14, 16 are formed of a polymer material. Exemplary plastic materials include polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). However, this disclosure should not be considered limited to these materials. In particular, the components may be molded from HDPE and / or LDPE, thereby making the entire spring assembly more recyclable.

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the slotted tubular spring element 12 is cylindrical in shape and has a uniform wall thickness (Figure 2 and...). Figure 4 (Best shown in the image). The spring element 12 includes a single longitudinal slot 18 that extends along the entire length of the tube to define parallel, opposing slot edges 20, 22. When an axial force is applied to the first and second ends of the element 12, the slot 18 allows the element to expand radially. The inner wall edges are chamfered 24 to facilitate sliding of the wall on the load cone surfaces 14, 16 (in... Figure 7 (Best of the best display).

[0079] The load cones 14 and 16 are identical in shape and symmetrically inverted to provide opposing axial compressive and elongation forces on the tubular spring element 12. (Refer to...) Figure 8 The load cones 14 and 16 (only 14 is shown) are generally conical in shape and preferably have at least one wall section (main load wall) 26, which has a wall angle θ of not less than 11 degrees. 1 In this embodiment, wall angles less than 11 degrees tend to induce frictional lock, while wall angles greater than 11 degrees minimize the stroke length and increase the overall diameter of the spring assembly. It should be understood that the critical wall angle for the main load wall 26 is based on the type of material used (i.e., polymer or metal) and other factors (such as surface finish, wall chamfer shape, etc.). The angle must be selected such that the spring force from the spring element 12 overcomes friction and displacement of the applied axial load. An exemplary embodiment intended for use in a dispensing pump for viscous liquids includes load cones 14, 16 having a first truncated conical preloaded wall section 28 (with a wall angle θ greater than 11 degrees). 2 ), and the second truncated conical main load wall section 26 (with a wall angle θ of 11 degrees). 1 A relatively steep preload angle θ2 This contributes to the initial expansion of the spring element 12.

[0080] Turning Figures 9 to 12 The load cones 14 and 16 can be axially compressed toward each other within the open end of the slotted tubular spring element 12, thereby causing the slotted tubular spring element 12 to expand radially under tension to generate opposing radial contraction forces. Figure 9 It shows the initial static state. Figure 10 The initial preload and outward expansion of the spring element are shown. Figure 11 This demonstrates full axial compression and loading. The tubular spring element 12 elastically stores energy through deformation, which causes the spring element to return to its normal rest shape when the spring element 12 is released. When... Figure 12 When released, the spring element 12 elastically contracts (inward), thereby generating an axial extension force and restoring the cones 14 and 16 to their normal rest position.

[0081] Turning Figure 13 Embodiments of this polymer compression spring 10 can be advantageously used in dispensing pumps 100 for various liquids, emulsions, etc., contained in bottles or other containers (not shown). In some exemplary embodiments, all components of both the dispensing pump 100 and the compression spring assembly 10 are molded from the same plastic material, thereby making the entire dispensing pump 100, including the spring assembly 10, easily recyclable from a single plastic material.

[0082] The distribution pump 100 includes an accumulator cup-shaped member 102, which has a suction pipe receiver 104 and a ball valve 106 at its lower end. A tubular guide 108 is received at the upper end of the accumulator cup-shaped member 102 and is secured to the container neck (not shown) by a threaded cap ring 110. The compression spring assembly 10 is received within and guided within the tubular guide 108. As described above, the angle θ of the load wall 26 of the load cones 14, 16... 1 The diameter of the entire spring assembly is a key factor in determining this. As seen in this pump embodiment 100, the spring assembly 10 is fitted within the inner wall of the guide 108, which in turn is fitted within the neck of the container. Accordingly, the wall angle, spring element material, and profile are all factors that determine this specification. The piston rod 112 is received axially through the load cones 14 and 16 and the tubular spring element 12, and extends through the bottom of the guide 108 into the accumulator cup 102, wherein the end is fitted with a piston 112 that forms a seal with the inner wall of the accumulator 102. The nozzle head 116 is fixed to the upper end of the piston rod 112 and received on the upper load cone 16.

[0083] During operation, the forced downward compression of the nozzle head 116 causes a corresponding downward axial movement of the upper load cone 16, and an outward deflection and load on the spring element 12, as previously described. Figures 9 to 12 The description is as follows. Upon subsequent release of the nozzle head 116, the tubular spring element 12 elastically retracts back to its normal rest shape and position (see also...). Figure 12 This forces the upper loading cone 16, piston rod 112, piston 114, and nozzle head 116 upward back to their normal rest positions. The pump assembly 100 and ball valve 106 operate as known in the art to draw material upward from the suction pipe 104 and dispense material through the nozzle head 116.

[0084] Turn now Figures 14 to 21 Some embodiments of the spring assembly 200 may include an improved slotted tubular spring element 202 having stress-reducing ribs 204, 206 extending along opposing edges 208, 210 of a longitudinal slot 212. Ribs 204, 206 may include symmetrical convex surfaces 204a, 206a extending radially outward from the slot edges 208, 210 (see...). Figure 15 and Figure 16 ) and symmetrical convex surfaces 204b and 206b extending outward in the circumferential direction (see Figure 14 This embodiment 202 further includes a thinner first wall thickness 214 at the slot edges 208, 210 adjacent to the stress ribs 204, 206, and a thicker second wall thickness 216 that is diametrically opposite to the slot edges 208, 201 (see...). Figure 15 The increasing wall thickness of the arc-shaped surfaces 204a, 204b, 206a, and 206b, which are further away from the slot edges 208 and 210, makes the stress more evenly distributed throughout the spring element 202, thus extending the life cycle of the spring element 202. Figure 17 The spring element 202 under expanded load is shown. Figure 18 and Figure 19 The motion vectors (arrows) associated with the corners of the slot edges 208, 210 are shown. The reduced material volume in these areas allows these corners to deform more easily and reduce stress. As previously described, this spring element 202 is used in combination with the same load cones 14, 16. Figure 20 and Figure 21 Axial compression of this embodiment 200 with exemplary load cones 14, 16 is shown. This spring assembly 200 can be used in a distribution pump of the same type as the distribution pump 100 described above, with improved spring life.

[0085] Now refer to Figures 22 to 28Other embodiments of the compression spring assembly 300 include: a slotted tubular spring element 302, the slotted tubular spring element being hyperboloid in shape, i.e., having a smaller (narrower) diameter at the center and symmetrically larger diameters at the ends; and opposing first load cones 304 and second load cones 306. The spring element 302 has a uniform wall thickness (see...). Figure 25 and Figure 26 ) and includes a single longitudinal slot 308 extending along the entire length of the tube. Figure 23 and Figure 24 This allows the spring element to expand radially when an axial force is applied to the first and second ends of the spring element 302. This contrasts with the previously described cylindrical shape (…). Figures 1 to 12 In comparison, the hyperboloid spring 302, with its curved spring walls, provides a more rigid load profile (larger load profile) using the same amount of plastic material. The inner wall edges also have a chamfer 310 to facilitate the sliding of the spring element 302 on the load cone wall surfaces 304, 306 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 26 The hyperboloid shape of the spring element 302 works more efficiently with load cones 304 and 306 having a single truncated conical load wall 312 with a slightly steeper wall angle θ. 3 ( Figure 22 Preferred embodiments (as shown) exhibit wall angles θ greater than 11 degrees. 3 As noted above, the specific wall angle θ is selected based on the tensile properties of the spring element 302, as well as the material and surface finish. These exemplary embodiments are intended to be illustrative and not limiting.

[0086] Turning Figure 27 and Figure 28 The hyperboloid compression spring assembly 300 is itself suitable for use as an external spring return element in certain dispensing pumps 400 for various liquids, emulsions, etc. As described above, in many exemplary embodiments, all components of both the dispensing pump 400 and the compression spring assembly 300 are molded from the same plastic material, thereby making the entire dispensing assembly easily recyclable from a single plastic material.

[0087] Reference Figure 27 and Figure 28The dispensing pump 400 includes an accumulator cup-shaped member 402, which is secured within the neck of a container 404 by a threaded closure 406. A nozzle head 408 is received on a piston rod 410 that extends through the closure 406 and into the accumulator 402. A piston seal 411 is received at the end of the piston rod 410, thereby forming a seal with the inner wall of the accumulator. The load cones 304, 306 of the hyperboloid compression spring assembly 300 are integrated into the opposing outer surfaces of the closure 406 and the top of the piston rod 410, and a hyperboloid slotted tubular spring element 302 is snap-on received on and around the upwardly tapered extension 304 of the piston rod 410 and the closure 406, thereby engaging the inclined load cone walls 304, 306 of the piston rod 410 and the closure 406.

[0088] During operation, the forced downward compression of the nozzle head 408 causes a corresponding downward axial movement of the upper load cone (piston rod head) 410 / 306 and an outward deflection and load on the spring element 302, similar to the previous... Figures 9 to 12 The description is as follows. Upon subsequent release of the nozzle head 408, the tubular spring element 302 elastically contracts (radially inward) back to its normal rest shape and position, thereby forcing the upper loading cone (piston rod) 410 / 306 and the nozzle head 408 upward back to their normal rest position. The pump assembly 400 operates as known in the art to draw material upward from the suction tube connection 412 and dispense material through the nozzle head 408.

[0089] Reference Figure 29 and Figure 30 Another exemplary pump dispenser embodiment is shown and is generally indicated by 500. The dispenser pump 500 includes an accumulator 502 secured within the neck of a container 504 by a threaded closure 506. The accumulator 502 has a draw-in inlet 508 formed in its bottom wall. A nozzle head 510 is received on a piston rod 512 extending through a second closure ring 514 (secured to the top of the accumulator 502) and into the accumulator 502. A piston seal 516 is received at the end of the piston rod 512, thereby forming a seal with the inner wall of the accumulator 502. Similar to... Figure 13In one embodiment, a compression spring assembly 518 is received within an accumulator 502 and includes a cylindrical, slotted tubular spring element 520, a first load cone 522, and a second load cone 524. In this embodiment, the first load cone 522 is a separate component located on a shoulder 526 formed on the accumulator wall. A piston rod 512 extends coaxially through the first load cone 522, such that a piston seal 516 is located below the first load cone 522. The second load cone 524 is integrated into the outer surface of the piston rod 512. It should be noted that the load cones 522 and 524 have a single, uniform load surface. The slotted tubular spring element 520 surrounds the piston rod 512 and is coaxially received between the first load cone 522 and the second load cone 524.

[0090] The operation of the distribution pump 500 is similar to that of... Figure 13 The operations described in the embodiments are as follows.

[0091] Referring to FIG31, another exemplary embodiment is shown and is generally indicated by 600. The dispensing pump 600 generally includes a pump base 602, a dispensing head 604, and a polymer compression spring assembly 606. The pump base includes an accumulator 608, which is secured within the neck of a container (not shown) by a threaded closure 610. The accumulator 608 has a draw tube inlet 612 formed in its bottom wall, and a ball valve 614 is located within the draw tube inlet 612. The dispensing head 604 is received at the tip of a piston rod 616, which extends through the threaded closure 610 and into the accumulator 608. A piston seal 618 is received midway along the length of the piston rod on the piston rod 616. The compression spring assembly 606 is received within the accumulator 608 and includes a cylindrical slotted tubular spring element 620, a first load cone 622, and a second load cone 624. In this embodiment, the first load cone 622 is integrally formed with the bottom wall of the accumulator 608 and extends upward around the intake pipe inlet 612 and the ball valve 614. The second load cone 624 is integrated into the end of the piston rod 616. It is noted here that the piston rod 616 extends coaxially through the piston seal 618, such that the piston seal 618 is located above the second load cone 624. Both load cones 622 and 624 have a preload surface and a main load surface, as described above and as in... Figure 8 The cylindrical, slotted tubular spring element 620 is received within the accumulator 608 between the first load cone 622 and the second load cone 624.

[0092] The downward compression of the distribution head 604 causes a corresponding downward compression of the piston rod 616 and the second load cone 624, and induces an elastic radial expansion of the slotted tubular spring element 620. Material within the accumulator chamber is pumped through the port 626 in the wall of the piston rod 616 into the internal rod channel and upwards into the distribution head 604. As described above, the release of the distribution head 604 allows the spring element 620 to contract radially and freely, generating an upward axial force that returns the piston rod 616 and the distribution head 604 to their normal rest positions.

[0093] Figure 32 shows a slightly modified embodiment 600A, in which the internal channel of the piston rod 616 is enlarged to improve material flow.

[0094] Figure 33 shows another modified embodiment 600B, in which the end of the second load cone 624 is truncated and the length of the accumulator 608 is slightly shorter.

[0095] Figure 34 shows another embodiment 600C, in which the second load cone 624 is molded as a separate component and is fixed to the end of the piston rod 616 below the piston seal 618.

[0096] Now turn to Figure 35 Figure 48 An exemplary embodiment of a dispensing pump is shown, and it is generally indicated by 700. The dispensing pump 700 includes a pump base assembly 702, a dispensing head 704, and a polymer compression spring assembly 706. The pump base assembly 702 includes an accumulator cup-shaped member 708, which is secured within the neck of a container (not shown) by a closing ring 710. In the exemplary illustration, the closing ring 710 is threaded for attachment to a threaded container neck. (See reference...) Figure 38 and Figure 40 The accumulator 708 has a draw tube inlet 712 formed in its bottom wall, and a ball valve 714 is located within the draw tube inlet 712. A dispensing head 704 is integrally formed at the tip of a piston rod 716 that extends through a closing ring 710 and into the accumulator 708. The piston rod 716 is axially guided within the accumulator 708 by an annular support 718, which is threadedly received within the top peripheral edge of the accumulator 708. A piston seal 720 (see...) Figure 37 and Figure 38 It is received on the piston rod at the midway along the length of the piston rod 716.

[0097] A compression spring assembly 706 is received within an accumulator 708, and the compression spring assembly includes a cylindrical tubular spring element 722 with a slot, a first load cone 724, and a second load cone 726. In this embodiment, the first load cone 724 is integrally formed with the bottom wall of the accumulator 708, and the first load cone extends upward around the intake pipe inlet 712 and the ball valve 714.

[0098] The second load cone 726 is molded as a separate cup-shaped component having an open top, a hollow interior, and internal ribs 728 that snap-fit ​​into corresponding ridges 730 at the end of the piston rod 716. These ribs 728 are formed such that the end of the piston rod 716 is positioned slightly above the inner bottom wall of the load cone 726, and such that a channel is provided in the internal passage 729 from the interior of the load cone 726 to the internal passage 729 of the piston rod 716 (see...). Figure 38 (The arrow in the image indicates this). It is noted here that the piston rod 716 extends coaxially through the piston seal 720, such that the piston seal 720 is positioned above the second load cone 726. Furthermore, the outer surface of the second load cone 726 includes radially outward guides 731 that facilitate proper sliding of the load cone 726 within the inner wall of the accumulator 708.

[0099] Load cones 724 and 726 each have a preload surface A and a main load surface B as described above. A cylindrical, slotted tubular spring element 722 is received within the accumulator 708 between the first load cone 724 and the second load cone 726. Although exemplary embodiments herein are illustrated by way of a cylindrical tubular spring element 722, it should be understood that the spring element 722 may include any of the spring elements described herein. Similarly, load cones 724 and 726 may be formed in any of the configurations described above.

[0100] Turning Figures 43 to 48 This demonstrates the complete allocation order used in this embodiment 700. Figure 43 The starting position is shown, with the load cone 724 slightly preloaded and ball valve 714 closing the intake pipe inlet port 712. During assembly, the core support 718 is screwed downwards into the top of the accumulator 708, compressing the components together under slight preload. [Go to...] Figure 44 The downward compression of the distribution head 704 and piston rod 716 causes a corresponding downward compression of the second load cone 726, the slotted tubular spring element 722 begins to expand elastically radially, and the distribution channel between the bottom of the piston seal 720 and the top edge of the second load cone 726 opens. Figure 45In this process, further downward compression of the distribution head 704 causes both the load cone 726 and the piston seal 720 to move, thereby providing a pumping action. A set of circumferentially spaced guide ribs 732 (extending longitudinally downward along the outer wall of the piston rod 716) have terminal shoulders 734 that engage with the central ring of the piston seal 720 and cause it to move downward accordingly with the distribution head 704. Material within the accumulator 708 is forced downward into the interior of the second load cone 726, upward into the inner rod passage 729, and upward into the distribution head 704. (Steering) Figures 46 to 48 The release of the distributor head 704 allows the spring element 722 to contract radially and freely, generating an upward axial force that returns the piston rod 716, piston seal 720, and distributor head 704 to their normal rest positions. Upon returning to the initial position, the ball valve 714 opens. Figure 46 ), to draw fresh material from the container into the accumulator 708 ( Figure 47 In the middle. When the pump stroke is completed, ball valve 714 reseated itself to close the suction pipe inlet 712.

[0101] Turn now Figures 49 to 64 This illustration shows another exemplary embodiment of a dispensing pump, generally indicated by 800. The dispensing pump 800 includes a pump base 802, a dispensing head 804, and a polymer compression spring assembly 806. The pump base 802 includes an outer skirt 808 and an inner accumulator cup-shaped member 810. The lower portion of the outer surface of the skirt 808 is snap-fitted into the neck 812 of a container or can 814. In the exemplary illustration, the skirt 808 and the neck 812 include mating ridges for snap-fit ​​attachment to the container 814. A cup-shaped cap 816 is snap-fitted into the dispensing head 804 on a ridge located on the upper portion of the outer surface of the skirt 808.

[0102] The disclosed exemplary embodiment 800 is an airless pump system and therefore includes a piston follower 818 received within a container 814, which seals the inner wall of the container 814.

[0103] Reference Figure 51 and Figures 59 to 64 The accumulator cup-shaped part 810 has an inlet port 820 formed in its bottom wall, and a ball valve 822 is located inside the inlet port 820.

[0104] The dispensing head 804 has an integrally formed outlet nozzle 824 with an outer casing wall 826 and a downwardly extending inlet core 828. The outer casing wall 826 has a lower peripheral edge portion received within a skirt wall 808 of the pump base 802. The peripheral edge portion includes a raised ridge 830 that interacts with a corresponding shoulder 832 extending inwardly at the upper peripheral edge of the skirt wall 808. The ridge 830 and the shoulder 832 interact to maintain the dispensing head 804 and the pump base 802 in an assembled relationship and define a rest stop position of the pump assembly 800. Figure 59 ).

[0105] The piston rod 834 has an internal fluid passage 836, an upper end 838 assembled with the inlet rod 828 of the dispensing head 804, and a lower end 840 extending downward into the accumulator 810. The lower end 840 also has an inlet opening 842. The piston rod 834 is axially guided within the accumulator 810 by an annular guide wall 844, which is concentrically received around the outer side of the accumulator 810. A piston seal 846 is received on the lower end 840 of the piston rod 834, sealing the inner wall of the accumulator 810 and also sealing the inlet opening 842.

[0106] A compression spring assembly 806 is located in the space between the outer skirt wall 808 and the outer side of the accumulator 810, and includes a cylindrical tubular spring element 848 with a slot, a first load cone 850, and a second load cone 852. In this embodiment, the first load cone 850 is integrally formed with the bottom wall of the pump base 802 and extends concentrically upward around the outer side of the accumulator 810. The second load cone 852 is concentrically disposed around the piston rod 834 and, in an exemplary embodiment, is molded as an integral part of the guide wall 844 of the piston rod 834. During a dispensing cycle, the second load cone 852 moves together with the dispensing head 804 and the piston rod 834. The load cones 850 and 852 may have a preload surface and a main load surface as described above.

[0107] As described above, the spring element 848 is generally cylindrical in shape and may have stress-reducing ribs 854, 856 extending along opposite edges of the longitudinal slot 858. The spring element 848 may also include a reinforcing / releasing rib 860 extending circumferentially around the outer wall of the spring 844, and another spinal rib 862 extending longitudinally along the height of the spring 848 opposite to the slot 858. (See reference...) Figure 58This embodiment includes a longitudinal rib 862 that extends outward opposite to the slot, thereby essentially forming the longitudinal spine of the spring. Multiple circumferential ribs 860 extend circumferentially around the spring element 848 from the longitudinal spine 862 toward the slot 858, gradually decreasing in height until they merge with the outer surface of the spring wall and form a slightly greater than 90-degree angle with the longitudinal spine 862. Any or all of these ribs 854, 856, 860, and 862 can provide additional strength, elasticity, stress relief, and spring force in a shorter spring element.

[0108] While exemplary embodiments herein are shown with a cylindrical tubular spring element 848, it should be understood that the spring element may include any of the spring elements described herein. Similarly, the load cones 850, 852 may be formed in any of the configurations described above.

[0109] Turning Figures 59 to 64 This demonstrates the complete allocation order used in this embodiment 800. Figure 59 The starting position is shown, where load cones 850 and 852 and spring 848 are slightly preloaded, piston seal 846 is captured abutting against reinforcing rib 864 on the inner peripheral edge of accumulator cup 810, lower end 840 of piston rod 834 is located in piston seal 846, and ball valve 822 closes inlet port 820. Go to... Figure 60 The downward compression of the distribution head 804 and piston rod 834 causes downward compression of the second load cone 852, the slotted tubular spring element 848 to begin elastic radial expansion, and the distribution channel (842) in the bottom end 840 of the piston rod 834, which slides relative to the piston seal 846, to open. The movement of the upper load cone 852 is stabilized by the guide wall 844 and further by the annular wall 865 extending downward from the distribution head 804. The annular wall 865 engages the outer periphery of the load cone 852 to provide uniform downward compression. Figure 61 In this process, further downward compression of the distribution head 804 causes both the load cone 852 and the piston seal 846 to move, thereby providing pumping action. The ball valve 822 remains in its seat within the inlet port 820. Material within the accumulator 810 is forced into the internal passage 836 of the piston rod 834, upwards into the inlet rod 828, and upwards into the nozzle 824. (Steering) Figures 62 to 64 The release of the distributor head 804 allows the spring element 848 to contract radially and freely, generating an upward axial force that returns the piston rod 834, piston seal 846, and distributor head 804 to their normal rest positions. Figure 59 and Figure 64 Upon returning to the initial position, piston inlet passage 842 is closed, and ball valve 822 is open. Figure 62), to draw fresh material from container 814 into accumulator 810 through inlet port 820. Figure 63 In the return stroke, ball valve 822 reseats itself to close inlet port 820. Figure 64 ).

[0110] Turn now Figures 65 to 7 4. Another exemplary embodiment of the dispensing pump is shown and is generally indicated by 900. The dispensing pump 900 is substantially similar in structure and function to the above-described embodiment 800, with two exceptions. The pump 900 may additionally include a ventilation structure 960 on the outer peripheral surface of the pump base 902 and a baffle structure 970 disposed above the inlet port 920 of the pump base 902, the purpose of which will be described below.

[0111] The main working components of the dispensing pump 900 are substantially the same. The dispensing pump 900 includes a pump base 902, a dispensing head 904, and a polymer compression spring assembly 906. The pump base 902 includes an outer skirt 908 and an inner accumulator cup-shaped member 910. The lower portion of the outer surface of the skirt 908 is snap-fitted into the neck 912 of a container or tank 914. The cup-shaped cap 916 is snap-fitted into the dispensing head 904. Exemplary embodiment 900 further includes a piston follower 918. Similarly, as described above, the accumulator cup-shaped member 910 has an inlet port 920 formed in its bottom wall, and a ball valve 922 is located within the inlet port 920.

[0112] As described above, the piston rod 934 and piston seal 946 are assembled together with the dispensing head 904.

[0113] The compression spring assembly 906 is the same as described above, including a cylindrical slotted tubular spring element 948, and a first load cone and a second load cone integrally formed with the pump base 902 and the piston rod 934.

[0114] Turning to the current improvements, it has been found that in some cases, when container 914 is first filled and capped, the inlet port 920 dips downwards into the product inside container 914. This is not a problem for self-leveling products. However, for non-self-leveling products, pump 900 begins to produce output before the air trapped in the headspace between the pump base and the product in the container is vented. This problem causes output variation per pump stroke. In this regard, pump base 902 is provided with multiple peripheral vents 960 or release areas on the outer surface of pump base skirt 908. During the capping of pump base 902 onto container neck 912, the vents 960 allow air to escape when pump base 902 is positioned downwards within neck 912. When capped, vents 960 prevent excessive air trapping in the headspace, and less air reduces the number of suction strokes before product dispensing. Vents 960 can be clustered together (see...). Figure 68 They can also be spaced circumferentially around the outer edge of the pump base 902 (see...). Figures 67 to 69 Furthermore, the vent 960 may have a stepped size from a larger vent to a smaller vent in the direction in which the airflow exits the top space (see...). Figure 68 ).

[0115] The flow baffle 970 includes a central nipple portion 972 and a radially outwardly extending flange portion 974 that extends parallel to the bottom surface of the pump base 902 (see Figure 73). The internal recessed surface of the nipple portion 972 includes standoffs 976 that are snap-fitted onto the outer surface of the inlet port 920, thereby maintaining a flow passage therebetween (see Figures 73-74). The upper surface of the flange portion 974 includes a plurality of upwardly extending pawls 978 that maintain the spacing between the flange portion 974 and the bottom surface of the pump base 902 and maintain the flow passage to the inlet port 920. Figure 74 best illustrates the flow path of the product from the container 914 around the baffle 970 into the inlet port 920. The added baffle 970 covers the inlet port 920, preventing the product from entering the inlet port 920 directly and preventing the product from being drawn into the accumulator 910 before the air in the top space is purged during the suction stroke. The combination of the vent 960 and the baffle 970 reduces the variation in output volume and reduces the number of suction strokes of the pump 900, resulting in a better customer experience.

[0116] Turning Figures 75 to 8 0. A variant of the dispensing pump 900 is designated 900A. The dispensing pump 900A may be identical to embodiment 900 in all respects and have the same components, except... Figures 77 to 8Beyond the baffle 970A as best seen in Figure 902, the baffle 970A includes a central fitting portion 972 with a support 976 and a modified flange portion 974A. The flange portion 974A has a slightly shorter radial length and includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced fingers 980 extending outward and upward from the outer peripheral edge of the flange portion 974A. The fingers 980 engage with the aforementioned pawl 978 to maintain a flow passage between the baffle 970A and the pump base 902. Figure 80 best illustrates the flow path of the product from the container 914 around the baffle 970A into the inlet port 920.

[0117] Turning Figures 81 to 86 Another variant of the dispensing pump 900 is designated 900B. Again, the dispensing pump can be identical to embodiment 900 in all respects, having the same components, except... Figures 83 to 86 In addition to the best-looking baffle 970B, the baffle 970B includes a central pipe joint portion 972 with a support 976 and another modified flange portion 974B. The flange portion 974B is also shorter in radial length and includes an upwardly turned edge 982 extending upward from the outer peripheral edge of the flange portion 974B. The edge 982 turns upward into an annular space in the bottom wall of the pump base 902 and maintains a flow passage between the baffle 970B and the pump base 902. The flange 974B also includes the aforementioned pawl 978. Figure 86 This best illustrates the flow path of the product from container 914, around baffle 970B, into inlet port 920.

[0118] Turn now Figures 87 to 92 This illustrates yet another exemplary embodiment of the distribution pump, generally designated 1000. The distribution pump 1000 is substantially similar in structure and function to the embodiment 800 described above, with two exceptions that also address the same problems of excessive air in the described headspace and inconsistent pumping volume. The pump 1000 may also include the same ventilation structure 1060 on the outer peripheral surface of the pump base 1002. However, at the location of the baffle, the inlet port 1020 is modified such that it is formed flush with or coplanar with the bottom surface of the pump base 1001, and the ball valve is replaced by a disc valve 1090.

[0119] Except for the shape of the inlet port 1020 and the disc valve 1090, the main working components of the dispensing pump 1000 are identical. The dispensing pump 1000 includes a pump base 1002, a dispensing head 1004, and a polymer compression spring assembly 1006. The pump base 1002 is snap-fitted into the neck 1012 of the container or tank 1014. The pump base 1002 may be provided with the same peripheral vent 1060 or release area as described above.

[0120] The cup-shaped cap 1016 is snap-on received on the dispensing head 1004. Exemplary embodiment 1000 further includes a piston follower 1018. Similarly, as described above, the accumulator cup-shaped member 1010 has an inlet port 1020 formed in its bottom wall. A disc valve 1090 is located within the inlet port 1020 and has a central body portion 1092 extending through the inlet port and a peripheral flange portion 1094 located within the accumulator cup-shaped member 1010.

[0121] As described above, the piston rod 1034 and piston seal 1046 are assembled together with the dispensing head 1004.

[0122] The compression spring assembly 1006 is the same as described above, including a cylindrical tubular spring element 1048 with a slot, and a first load cone and a second load cone integrally formed with the pump base 1002 and the piston rod 1034.

[0123] like Figure 92 As is best seen, the shortened inlet port 1020 reduces the top space between the bottom surface of the pump base and the product, and the shortened inlet port can no longer be immersed in the product until the air in the top space is purged.

[0124] Therefore, it can be seen that the exemplary embodiments provide unique and novel dispensing pump assemblies, wherein all discrete components can be molded from a single plastic material or associated recyclable plastic to facilitate single-flow plastic recycling. Furthermore, all-plastic compression spring assemblies can be advantageously used in all-plastic dispensing pumps, which are thus also easily recyclable.

[0125] While certain specific structures embodying different embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and rearrangements of the components may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive concept, and that the invention is not limited to the specific forms shown and described herein, except as indicated by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dispensing pump for use with a container having a neck, the dispensing pump comprising: Pump base, which has a bottom and a skirt; Multiple vents on the outer surface of the skirt wall allow air to escape into the atmosphere during capping when the pump base is located within the neck of the container. The accumulator inside the pump base; The inlet port inside the accumulator extends outward from the outer surface of the bottom of the pump base; The valve within the inlet port; A baffle is disposed on the outer surface of the pump base and above the inlet port; wherein the baffle includes a central pipe joint portion having a support on its inner surface, the support being snapped in a spaced-apart relationship above the inlet port, the baffle also includes a flange portion extending radially outward from the central pipe joint portion and extending in a spaced-apart relationship with the outer surface of the bottom of the pump base, the baffle forming a flow channel to the inlet port between the upper surface of the baffle and the outer surface of the bottom of the pump base; A dispensing head having an outlet nozzle and an inlet core rod; A piston rod having an internal fluid passage, an upper end that accommodates the inlet rod of the distribution head, and an opposite lower end having an inlet opening extending into the accumulator; A piston seal at the lower end of the piston rod engages the accumulator; as well as A compression spring is trapped between the piston rod and the pump base.

2. The dispensing pump of claim 1 wherein, The plurality of vents have stepped dimensions from larger to smaller vents in the direction of airflow escape.

3. The distribution pump as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The flange portion includes a plurality of upward-facing pawls, which maintain the flange portion at a distance from the bottom outer surface of the pump base.

4. The distribution pump as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The flange portion includes a plurality of fingers that extend outward and upward from the outer peripheral edge of the flange portion and engage with the bottom outer surface of the pump base.

5. The distribution pump as claimed in claim 4, wherein, The flange portion includes a plurality of upward-facing pawls, which maintain the flange portion at a distance from the bottom outer surface of the pump base.

6. The distribution pump as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The compression spring includes: A slotted tubular spring element, the slotted tubular spring element being formed from a stretched polymer material; A first load cone, the first load cone being concentrically arranged around the accumulator at the first end of the slotted tubular spring element; and A second load cone, concentrically positioned around the piston rod at the second end of the slotted tubular spring element, is axially compressible toward the first load cone along with the piston rod and the distribution head. Thus, the slotted tubular spring element expands radially to generate an opposite extending spring force.

7. The distribution pump as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The first load cone is annular and integrally molded with the pump base, and the second load cone is integrally molded with the piston rod.

8. The dispensing pump according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The central tube connector portion and the flange portion of the baffle cover the inlet port and divert the product flow around the baffle to prevent the dispensed product from directly entering the inlet port.

9. The distribution pump according to claim 8, wherein, The central pipe joint portion and the flange portion of the baffle are continuous surfaces.

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