Dual reservoir spray dispenser

Abstract

Dual-reservoir spray dispenser configured to hold two different components separately while co-dispensing them as a sprayable composition, comprising a common actuator having a tube (2) with a tortuous path and comprising two inlet apertures (3, 5) and an outlet aperture (4).

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 048,283, filed July 6, 2020, the entire contents of which are hereby claimed and incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to dual-reservoir spray dispensers, systems, kits, and methods thereof. Background Technology

[0004] In the consumer goods industry, aerosolizable products (such as liquid compositions) are typically packaged in a spray dispenser that includes a container for holding the product to be sprayed, a pump unit, and an actuator assembly including, for example, a button and a nozzle tip, for dispensing the product in the form of a spray. Such spray dispensers are commercialized in many technical fields, such as skin care, hair care, personal care, grooming, oral care, health care, fabric care, and home care.

[0005] The products to be sprayed are typically pre-formulated and ready for use, and exhibit good stability over time. Therefore, dispensers filled with the product can be stored and / or used for months or even years.

[0006] However, some products are not stable over time and need to be mixed just before dispensing. This lack of stability can be due to a variety of reasons, such as the inherent instability of the compounds, such as degradation upon exposure to oxygen and / or light, incompatibility of some compounds together, such as their immiscibility, degradation of one compound by another, chemical reactions between the two compounds, etc.

[0007] Currently, it is cumbersome and impractical for users to prepare the spray product themselves before use. Dispensers comprising at least two reservoirs are known, which are used to store two components separately, which will be mixed and dispensed together as a spray when used. In particular, dual-reservoir spray dispensers comprising separate reservoirs and separate corresponding pump units have been in use for many years.

[0008] When designing dual-reservoir spray dispensers, several limitations need to be addressed, including technical, aesthetic, and ergonomic constraints. In particular, in fields where visual appearance is crucial, such as cosmetics, the aesthetic appeal of the packaging should not come at the expense of ergonomics and technical performance. Indeed, a satisfying user experience depends on visually pleasing packaging that is easy to grip and dispenses the sprayable components together. Such packaging can also offer long-lasting efficacy and can be used for months or even over a year from the first spray to the last, as seen in fragrance packaging incorporating microcapsules and volatile solvents.

[0009] From an aesthetic point of view, users particularly appreciate packaging where two reservoirs are positioned side-by-side, rather than one behind the other, so that both containers are visible to the user when held in their hand. In this type of assembly, if the packaging is held vertically with the button located on top of the reservoirs, the spray direction is approximately perpendicular to the vertical plane passing through the two reservoirs and the corresponding pump unit.

[0010] Different actuator assemblies have been designed for dispensing and injecting components. For example, an actuator assembly may include two separate tubes with outlet orifices positioned close to each other, such that mixing of the components (so-called in-flight mixing) occurs only during dispensing from the outlet orifices. Alternatively, the actuator may include two separate tubes in fluid communication with corresponding pump units, both tubes leading to a common tube, where the two components are mixed prior to dispensing. The paths of the separate tubes and the common tube can vary and may be, for example, T-shaped (the common path forms a right angle with the separate tubes) or Y-shaped (the common path forms an obtuse angle with the separate tubes, e.g., 120° to 150°).

[0011] Spray dispensers with side-by-side reservoirs of the above types are visually appealing packages, easy to grip and dispensing sprayable products. However, the user experience is not entirely satisfactory because the quality and effectiveness of the spray can change over time, for example, for dispensers used for extended periods, such as fragrance packaging, especially those containing microcapsules containing fragrances. In particular, after a certain number of sprays and / or after a certain amount of time, the tube may become partially or completely clogged, and the dispenser should be discarded before the reservoir is emptied. Clogging can be caused by a variety of reasons, including drying of at least one component and / or mixture, decomposition of some compounds, accumulation of residues, etc. Packaging used for dispensing fragrance compositions including microcapsules and volatile solvents is particularly prone to clogging. In addition, the mixing of components in the tube may not be entirely satisfactory. Furthermore, the actuator assembly typically comprises several parts to be assembled together, which therefore increases the complexity, size, and cost of the spray dispenser manufacturing process.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need to provide a spray dispenser with side-by-side reservoirs that offers an improved overall user experience.

[0013] There is also a need for a spray dispenser with side-by-side reservoirs that provides improved spray performance over time, and in particular a spray dispenser that does not clog over time and is usable from the first spray to the last spray.

[0014] There is also a need for a spray dispenser with side-by-side reservoirs that provides improved mixing of components so that the composition is uniformly mixed during dispensing.

[0015] There is also a need for a spray dispenser with side-by-side reservoirs that includes a simplified actuator assembly, i.e., a simple, compact, and / or cost-effective assembly, without compromising the overall user experience.

[0016] There is also a need for an improved spray dispenser with side-by-side reservoirs for dispensing long-lasting fragrance compositions, such as compositions comprising microcapsules loaded with fragrance and volatile agents. Summary of the Invention

[0017] spray dispenser

[0018] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a spray dispenser for mixing a first component and a second component into a sprayable composition, the spray dispenser comprising:

[0019] A first reservoir for holding the first component and a first pump unit in fluid communication with the first reservoir are configured;

[0020] A second reservoir configured to retain a second component different from the first component, and a second pump unit in fluid communication with the second reservoir;

[0021] The nozzle tip is configured to spray the composition;

[0022] A common spray actuator, operatively associated with the first pump unit and the second pump unit and including tubing;

[0023] The tube of the common spray actuator has a tortuous path and includes a first inlet port at one end in fluid communication with the first pump unit; an outlet port at the other end in fluid communication with the nozzle tip; and a second inlet port located between the first inlet port and the outlet port, in fluid communication with the second pump unit; and

[0024] The axis passing through the two inlet holes intersects approximately perpendicularly with the axis passing through the outlet hole and the spray direction of the nozzle tip.

[0025] The spray dispenser according to the invention is a dispenser configured to separately hold two distinct components while dispensing them together as a sprayable mixture (product). The spray dispenser can be configured to be held by one hand of a user; preferably, the reservoir is held by one hand, while the actuator assembly is actuated by a finger (e.g., index finger) of the same hand. The size of the dispenser then allows it to be held in the hand.

[0026] The advantages of the spray dispenser according to the invention are that the first and second reservoirs are side by side; the spray actuator limits or even prevents blockage caused by unmixed portions of the second component; and / or the spray actuator can be actuated by a finger to dispense a measured amount of the component.

[0027] The spray dispenser includes a first reservoir, a second reservoir, a first pump unit, a second pump unit, and an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly includes a common spray actuator and a nozzle tip.

[0028] A common spray actuator is operatively associated with a first pump unit and a second pump unit. The spray actuator includes a tube. As described herein, the tube is designed to allow the dispensing of quantitative amounts of a first component and a second component and the mixing of them into a homogeneous sprayable mixture (composition), while preventing clogging of the first component and / or the second component, particularly the second component, over time. The inventors have devised a common spray actuator comprising a single dispensing tube having a specific path and including three distinct orifices arranged in a specific order and having a specific spatial relationship. Specifically, the tube has a tortuous path and it includes three distinct orifices: a first inlet orifice at one end, an outlet orifice at the other end, and a second inlet orifice located between the first inlet orifice and the outlet orifice. The first inlet orifice is in fluid communication with the first pump unit. The second inlet orifice is in fluid communication with the second pump unit. The outlet orifice is in fluid communication with the nozzle tip. The spray device according to the invention is particularly suitable for retaining a second component or a compound that typically tends to clog the dispensing tube.

[0029] The various components of the spray dispenser (i.e., at least the first and second reservoirs, the first and second corresponding units, and the actuator assembly) can be assembled together along a longitudinal axis (or main axis). In this application, another axis is defined according to this longitudinal axis when necessary. Even if not mandatory, the spray dispenser can typically be placed on a flat surface, such as a table, by resting it on the bottom side of the reservoir (or housing, if present). In this case, the longitudinal axis is essentially a vertical axis, and the spray dispenser includes the reservoir, pump unit, and actuator assembly from bottom to top.

[0030] storage

[0031] The first component and the second component are respectively stored in the first storage container and the second storage container.

[0032] Each reservoir has an open end and may include a body and a neck. If desired, for example if the body and neck have different cross-sections in size and / or shape, the reservoir may also include a shoulder that connects the body to the neck.

[0033] The body defines the internal volume of the components. The body may include at least one circumferential wall and a bottom side. In one embodiment, the bottom side is flat and allows the spray dispenser to rest on a flat surface.

[0034] The neck includes an open end. Components can be supplied to the reservoir via the open end. After filling the reservoir, the neck is coupled to the corresponding pump unit in any suitable manner. For example, the neck can be coupled to the corresponding pump unit by threaded connection, adhesive, welding, or snap-fit ​​fastening. If necessary, a gasket, particularly an airtight gasket, can be placed between the neck and the pump unit.

[0035] The reservoir can be fixedly connected to the corresponding pump unit. Therefore, once the reservoir is empty, the spray dispenser can be discarded. Alternatively, the reservoir can be removably connected to the corresponding pump unit. Therefore, once at least one reservoir is empty, it can be refilled and reconnected to the pump unit, or it can be replaced with a filled reservoir. Alternatively, one reservoir can be removably connected to its corresponding pump unit, while another reservoir can be fixedly connected to its corresponding pump unit. Therefore, once emptied, only one reservoir can be replaced. Such embodiments may be useful for large, non-replaceable reservoirs using different replaceable reservoirs (such as smaller volume cartridges).

[0036] Each reservoir may have a volume of 1 to 250 mL, preferably 2 to 100 mL, more preferably 5 to 25 mL.

[0037] The walls of each reservoir can be made of any suitable material. Materials can be selected from ceramics, metals (e.g., aluminum), glass, resins, polymer-based materials (e.g., plastics), or composite materials.

[0038] Each storage unit can have any suitable shape or design. In a preferred embodiment, the storage units have a shape that allows them to be assembled side by side. In particular, the storage units can have complementary shapes so that they can be placed adjacent to each other.

[0039] Each reservoir may have a substantially tubular shape that extends longitudinally from the bottom to the top (i.e., from its bottom side to its neck). Alternatively, each reservoir may have a substantially non-tubular shape, such as a conical shape that widens longitudinally from the bottom to the top (or vice versa) of the reservoir.

[0040] The cross-section of each storage unit can be any suitable cross-section, such as circular, semi-circular, oval, semi-oval, square, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, or star-shaped cross-section.

[0041] At least one reservoir may have a rigid wall. In such an embodiment, the wall of at least one reservoir is not elastically deformable, elastically compressible, and / or elastically contractible. In a preferred embodiment, both reservoirs have rigid walls. Alternatively, although not preferred, one or both reservoirs may have non-rigid walls.

[0042] At least one storage device has a transparent wall. In one embodiment, both storage devices are transparent. In another embodiment, one storage device is transparent while the other is not transparent, for example, the other storage device is translucent or opaque.

[0043] The spray dispenser may include two separate, independent containers forming a first reservoir and a second reservoir, respectively. In a preferred embodiment, the two separate, independent containers are placed side by side, adjacent to each other. In an alternative embodiment, one container may be placed inside the other container.

[0044] The spray dispenser may consist of only one container, which includes a separating wall that defines two distinct compartments forming a first reservoir and a second reservoir, respectively.

[0045] In addition to the first and second reservoirs, the spray dispenser may include a housing for holding both reservoirs in place. The housing may partially or completely cover the reservoirs. The housing may have an open bottom end and / or side windows from which the reservoirs are introduced.

[0046] At least one storage device and / or housing (if present) may include illustrations, descriptions, and / or any other type of information. Such illustrations, descriptions, and other types of information may be printed or engraved on or adhered to the storage device.

[0047] Sprayable products and the components used to obtain them

[0048] The sprayable product (sprayable composition) is obtained by mixing a first component and a second component, wherein the first component and the second component are separate and respectively stored in a first reservoir and a second reservoir.

[0049] "Sprayable composition" refers to a composition containing materials / ingredients suitable for topical application to the keratinized tissues of mammals, including skin and hair.

[0050] Unless otherwise expressly stated, all percentages are based on the weight percentage of the sprayable composition and the components used to obtain it. Unless otherwise expressly stated, all ratios are by weight. All numerical ranges include narrower ranges; the defined upper and lower limits are interchangeable to produce more ranges that are not explicitly defined. The number of significant figures does not limit the quantity indicated or the precision of the measurement. All measurements should be understood to have been performed at approximately 25°C and ambient conditions, where “ambient conditions” refers to conditions at approximately one atmosphere and approximately 50% relative humidity.

[0051] "Substantially free" means an amount of 1% or less, preferably 0.1% or less, more preferably 0.01% or less, and most preferably 0% of the component by weight of the composition / component.

[0052] "Non-volatile" refers to materials that are liquid or solid under ambient conditions and have a measurable vapor pressure at 25°C. These materials typically have a vapor pressure below about 0.0000001 mmHg and an average boiling point typically above about 250°C.

[0053] Unless otherwise specified, as used herein, the term "volatile" refers to materials that are liquid or solid under ambient conditions and have a measurable vapor pressure at 25°C. These materials typically have a vapor pressure of about 0.0000001 mmHg or about 0.02 mmHg to about 20 mmHg and an average boiling point typically below about 250°C or below about 235°C.

[0054] The first component and the second component have different formulations. In a preferred embodiment, the first component contains a volatile solvent, and the second component contains microcapsules, particularly microcapsules loaded with fragrances.

[0055] Both components are in liquid form under standard conditions. "Standard conditions" refers to an ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure of approximately 18 to approximately 25°C, preferably approximately 20°C. In one embodiment, neither the first nor the second component is in powder or gaseous form under standard conditions.

[0056] These components may vary by the presence of at least one material and / or by the presence of at least one material in different proportions and / or by their physicochemical properties, such as different viscosities and / or by their visual appearance, such as different colors or different degrees of clarity and / or turbidity. The second component may be, or may contain, a compound that readily clogs the dispensing tube. In contrast, the first component may prevent clogging of the tube or may contain a compound that prevents clogging of the tube.

[0057] Viscosity

[0058] Each component can have a strength of 20 to 3000 mPa·s. -1 , preferably 50 to 600 mPa.s -1 More preferably 50 to 220 mPa·s -1 Viscosity was measured using a Brookfield DV-II rotor 3 at 60 rpm (measured at 25°C).

[0059] Components

[0060] Components can be stored separately for purely aesthetic reasons, such as providing components with different visual appearances.

[0061] Alternatively or cumulatively, components may be stored separately for chemical reasons. One component may contain a material that is inherently unstable under certain conditions, such as exposure to light and / or air. In such cases, the component may be stored in an opaque and / or airtight container. The two components may also contain materials that are incompatible when formulated together, such as immiscible materials like water-soluble and water-insoluble materials. In such cases, the aqueous component containing the water-soluble material may be stored in one container while the non-aqueous component containing the water-insoluble material, such as an oily component, may be stored in another container. One component may contain a material that will be degraded by another material contained in the other component. Components may contain materials that react chemically with a mixture, such as hair dye, in the presence of oxidizing and alkalizing agents.

[0062] In one embodiment, the component is substantially propellant-free and is not held in a pressurized reservoir.

[0063] volume ratio

[0064] The sprayable composition can be formed from a mixture of the first component and the second component in a volume ratio of 90:10 to 10:90, preferably 80:20 to 20:80, more preferably 70:30 to 30:70.

[0065] Volatile solvents

[0066] The first component and / or the second component, preferably the first component, may comprise a volatile solvent or a mixture of volatile solvents. The sprayable composition obtained by mixing the first and second components may comprise at least about 10%, or at least about 30%, or at least about 40%, or at least about 50%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 70%, or at least about 80%, or at least about 90% of a volatile solvent by weight of the sprayable composition. In one embodiment, the components consist substantially of a volatile solvent. The volatile solvent may be relatively odorless and safe for use on human skin. The volatile solvent may be selected from C1-C alcohols and mixtures thereof; preferably from ethanol, methanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, and mixtures thereof; more preferably ethanol.

[0067] Non-volatile solvents

[0068] The first component and / or the second component, preferably the first component, may comprise a non-volatile solvent or a mixture of non-volatile solvents. The sprayable composition obtained by mixing the first and second components may comprise at least about 10%, or at least about 30%, or at least about 40%, or at least about 50%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 70%, or at least about 80%, or at least about 90% of a non-volatile solvent by weight of the sprayable composition. In one embodiment, the component consists substantially of a non-volatile solvent. The non-volatile solvent may be relatively odorless and safe for use on human skin. The volatile solvent may be selected from benzyl benzoate, diethyl phthalate, isopropyl myristate, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, triethyl citrate, and mixtures thereof.

[0069] Fragrance

[0070] The first and / or second component, preferably the second component, may contain a fragrance. As used herein, “fragrance” is used to refer to any material with an odor. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term “fragrance” refers to an unencapsulated fragrance. Any cosmetically acceptable fragrance may be suitable for current use. A fragrance may be liquid or solid at room temperature. A fragrance may be volatile or non-volatile. A fragrance may be derived from synthetic or natural sources, including plant or animal sources. A wide variety of chemicals are referred to as fragrances. A fragrance may be selected from alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, Schiff bases, nitriles, esters, alkenes, and mixtures thereof. Suitable examples of alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, Schiff bases, nitriles, esters, and alkenes are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application 2017 / 0065993 A1, published March 9, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference. Fragrances can be fragrance precursors, such as those selected from acetal fragrance precursors, ketal fragrance precursors, ester fragrance precursors, hydrolyzable inorganic-organic fragrance precursors, and mixtures thereof. When a fragrance precursor is used, the fragrance can be released from the fragrance precursor in a variety of ways, such as through hydrolysis, through the shift of equilibrium reactions, through pH changes, through enzymatic release, or any suitable mechanism.

[0071] Fragrances can have boiling points (BP) of about 500°C or lower, or about 400°C or lower, or about 350°C or lower. The boiling points of many fragrances are disclosed in *Perfume and Flavor Chemicals* (Aroma Chemicals), Steffen Arctander (1969). The ClogP value for individual fragrance materials can be about -0.5 or greater. As used herein, “ClogP” refers to the logarithm of the octanol / water partition coefficient to the base 10. ClogP can be readily calculated using a program called “CLOGP” available from Daylight Chemical Information Systems Inc. (Irvine, California, USA), or using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD / Labs) software V11.02. The octanol / water partition coefficient is easily calculated by ACD / Labs from 1994 to 2014. It is described in more detail in U.S. Patent 5,578,563, published November 11, 1996.

[0072] The sprayable composition obtained by mixing the first component and the second component may contain 0.001 to 40%, 0.1 to 25%, 0.25 to 20%, or 0.5 to 15% of an unencapsulated fragrance by weight of the sprayable composition.

[0073] Microcapsules

[0074] The first or second component, preferably the second component, more preferably the second component containing a fragrance, may also contain microcapsules. At least a portion of the fragrance is encapsulated in the microcapsules. The microcapsules can be any type of microcapsule known in the art. The microcapsules may have a shell and a core material encapsulated by the shell. The core material of the microcapsules may include a fragrance as defined herein. The shell of the microcapsules may be made of synthetic polymer materials or naturally occurring polymers. For example, synthetic polymers may be derived from petroleum. Synthetic polymers may be selected from nylon, polyethylene, polyamide, polystyrene, polyisoprene, polycarbonate, polyester, polyurea, polyurethane, polyolefin, polysaccharide, epoxy resin, vinyl polymer, polyacrylate, and mixtures thereof. Natural polymers exist in nature and are often extracted from natural materials. Natural polymers may be selected from silk, wool, gelatin, cellulose, protein, and mixtures thereof. The sprayable composition obtained by mixing the first and second components may contain about 0.01% to about 45% of microcapsules by weight of the sprayable composition.

[0075] Microcapsules can be fragile. Fragile microcapsules are configured to release their core material when their shells rupture. Rupture can be caused by forces applied to the shells during mechanical interactions, such as during the dispensing of components containing them through the tubes and nozzle tips of the spray dispenser of the present invention.

[0076] The microcapsule may have a shell having a volume-weighted fracture strength of about 0.1 to about 15.0 MPa, or about 0.8 to about 15.0 MPa, or about 5.0 to about 12.0 MPa, or about 6.0 to about 10.0 MPa, when measured according to the fracture strength test method described in U.S. Patent Application 2017 / 0065993A1 (which is incorporated herein by reference), or a volume-weighted fracture strength of any increment in 0.1 MPa within that range, or a volume-weighted fracture strength of any range formed by any of these fracture strength values.

[0077] As determined by a test method for determining the median volume-weighted particle size of microcapsules as described in U.S. Patent Application 2017 / 0065993A1 (which is incorporated herein by reference), microcapsules may have a median volume-weighted particle size of about 2 to about 80 μm, or about 10 to about 30 μm, or about 10 to about 20 μm.

[0078] Microcapsules can have various core-to-shell weight ratios. Microcapsules can have core-to-shell ratios of approximately 70% to approximately 30%, or approximately 75% to approximately 25%, or approximately 80% to approximately 20%, or approximately 85% to approximately 15%, or approximately 90% to approximately 10%, or approximately 95% to approximately 5%.

[0079] Microcapsules can have a shell made of any material of any size, shape, and configuration known in the art. For example, the shell can contain a polyacrylate material, preferably a random copolymer of polyacrylate, more preferably a random copolymer of polyacrylate containing a combination of the following components by mass: about 0.2 to about 2.0% amine content, about 0.6 to about 6.0% carboxylic acid content, and about 0.1 to about 1.0% amine content and about 0.3 to 3.0% carboxylic acid content by mass of total polyacrylate.

[0080] Microcapsules can have various shell thicknesses. Microcapsules can have a shell thickness of about 1 to about 300 nm, or about 2 to about 200 nm.

[0081] Microcapsules may also encapsulate one or more beneficial agents. These beneficial agents may be selected from cooling agents, warming agents, aromatic oils, oils, pigments, dyes, chromogens, phase change materials, or any other suitable beneficial agents known in the art. Microcapsules may also encapsulate partition modifiers. Suitable beneficial agents and / or partition modifiers are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application 2017 / 0065993 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0082] The shell of the microcapsule may contain the reaction product of a first mixture in the presence of a second mixture comprising an emulsifier, the first mixture comprising i) an oil-soluble or oil-dispersible amine and ii) a polyfunctional acrylate or methacrylate monomer or oligomer, an oil-soluble acid, and an initiator, said emulsifier comprising a water-soluble or water-dispersible alkyl acrylate copolymer, an alkali metal or alkali metal salt, and optionally an aqueous initiator. Suitable amine monomers and emulsifiers are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application 2017 / 0065993 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0083] Processes for preparing microcapsules are well known. Various processes, exemplary methods, and materials for microencapsulation are set forth in U.S. Patents 6,592,990, 2,730,456, 2,800,457, 2,800,458, 4,552,811, and U.S. Patent Application 2006 / 026351 8 A1, which are incorporated herein by reference. Microcapsules can be spray-dried to form spray-dried microcapsules.

[0084] carrier and water

[0085] When a component contains microcapsules, it may also contain a carrier for the microcapsules. Suitable carriers may be selected from water, silicone oil, other oils (e.g., mineral oil and / or isopropyl myristate), and aromatic oils; water is preferred. The carrier should not significantly affect the performance of the microcapsules. Volatile solvents, such as 95% ethanol, are not suitable carriers for microcapsules.

[0086] The sprayable composition containing microcapsules obtained by mixing the first component and the second component may further contain about 0.1 to about 95%, or about 5 to about 5%, or about 5 to about 75% of a carrier based on the weight of the sprayable composition.

[0087] In some embodiments, when spraying one of the components containing a volatile solvent (preferably the first component) and another component containing microcapsules (preferably the second component), the resulting mixture of the first and second components may contain a carrier, preferably water, comprising about 0.01 to about 75%, or about 1 to about 60%, or about 0.01 to about 60%, or about 5 to about 50% by weight of the sprayable composition.

[0088] pH

[0089] The sprayable composition obtained by mixing the first and second components may have a pH of about 2 to about 10, or about 3 to about 9, or about 4 to about 8.

[0090] Other reagents

[0091] The first and / or second components, preferably the second component, may also contain a suspending agent, particularly a suspending agent for suspending microcapsules and / or any other water-insoluble material dispersed in the components. The sprayable composition obtained by mixing the first and second components may contain about 0.01 to about 90%, or about 0.01 to 15%, of the suspending agent by weight of the sprayable composition. Suitable suspending agents are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application 2017 / 0065993 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0092] The first and / or second components may also contain other agents selected from colorants (especially colorants in the form of pigments), antioxidants, UV inhibitors, cyclodextrins, quenchers, skin care actives, and mixtures thereof.

[0093] In some embodiments, the sprayable composition obtained by mixing the first and second components comprises at least about 50%, or at least about 75%, or at least about 90% water by weight of the components; about 0.01 to about 90%, or about 0.01 to about 15%, or about 0.5 to about 15% suspending agent by weight of the sprayable composition; wherein the components are free of propellants, volatile solvents (such as ethanol), detergency surfactants, or mixtures thereof; wherein the microcapsules comprise a first fragrance and a shell surrounding the first fragrance. In some embodiments, the second component is substantially free of waxes, antiperspirants, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the sprayable composition obtained by mixing the first and second components comprises about 20% or less, or about 10% or less, or about 7% or less microcapsules by weight of the sprayable composition.

[0094] Pump unit

[0095] The spray dispenser includes two pump units that are in fluid communication with the corresponding reservoir.

[0096] The pump units may be different from each other or they may be the same. In a preferred embodiment, the two pump units are identical.

[0097] The pump unit can be selected from any pump unit generally known to be suitable for dispensing liquid products. The pump unit can be a standard pump associated with a tube immersed in the component, or alternatively, the pump unit can be an airless pump associated with a piston. In a preferred embodiment, the pump unit is a standard pump associated with a tube immersed in the component.

[0098] spray actuator

[0099] The spray dispenser includes an actuator assembly comprising a common spray actuator and a nozzle tip.

[0100] The common spray actuator is operatively associated with both the first and second pump units. The common spray actuator is associated with the pump units in any suitable manner. For example, the common spray actuator can be associated with the corresponding pump unit by bonding, welding, or snap-fit ​​fastening. If necessary, a gasket, particularly an airtight gasket, can be placed between the inlet port of the pipe and the corresponding pump unit.

[0101] Public spray actuators can be manually operated with just one finger (e.g., the index finger) while the spray dispenser is held with one hand. This type of spray actuator is often referred to as a button.

[0102] The axial downward operation of the common spray actuator (i.e., towards the top of the reservoir) simultaneously actuates both pump units. The common spray actuator is configured to dispense a fixed amount of first and second components upon actuation. The amount of components dispensed and the ratio between the amount of the first and second components can vary depending on the type of pump unit used. For example, if the two reservoirs have the same volume and the two pump units are identical, then the first and second components should be dispensed in equal amounts upon actuation of the common spray actuator, and both reservoirs should be substantially emptied after the same number of actuations.

[0103] The spray actuator includes a tube. The tube is designed to allow a given amount of first and second components to be dispensed as a homogeneous sprayable mixture, while preventing clogging of the first and / or second components, particularly the second component, over time. The spray dispenser according to the invention, particularly the common spray actuator and its tube arrangement, exhibits advantages over conventional dual-reservoir spray dispensers, which include two pump units, and especially those including common spray actuators with Y-shaped or T-shaped piping systems. In practice, actuation of a conventional dual-reservoir spray dispenser requires greater force than a spray dispenser including only one pump unit, making it difficult to actuate the spray actuator with a single finger. Furthermore, conventional dual-reservoir spray dispensers are prone to clogging, especially if at least one of the two components tends to dry and / or accumulate clogging residue while remaining in the tube. Additionally, conventional dual-reservoir spray dispensers may have reduced performance in uniformly mixing and spraying the two components.

[0104] Such advantages are achieved by designing a common spray actuator, characterized in that it allows for a spray dispenser in which a first reservoir and a second reservoir are side by side; it limits or even prevents clogging caused by unmixed portions of the second component; and the spray actuator can be actuated by a finger to dispense a measured amount of the component.

[0105] Specifically, the inventors designed a common spray actuator comprising a single dispensing and mixing tube having a specific path and including three distinct orifices arranged in a specific order and having a specific spatial relationship.

[0106] The tube includes a first inlet port at one end, an outlet port at the other end, and a second inlet port located between the first inlet port and the outlet port. The first inlet port is in fluid communication with a first pump unit, the second inlet port is in fluid communication with a second pump unit, and the outlet port is in fluid communication with a nozzle tip. This particular sequence allows for a tube comprising only two distinct sections. The first section is formed between the first and second inlet ports, wherein a given amount of the first component is displaced toward the second inlet port upon actuation. The second section is formed between the second inlet port and the outlet port, wherein the given amounts of both the first and second components are mixed as a uniform spray before being dispensed through the nozzle tip. The arrangement of the second inlet port between the first inlet port and the outlet port is advantageous, as it prevents or even eliminates unmixed portions of the second component from remaining in the tube after actuation, thus limiting or even preventing clogging. In such a configuration, the first component flushes the second component.

[0107] The inlet and outlet orifices are also arranged in space such that the axis passing through the two inlet orifices intersects approximately perpendicularly with the axis passing through the outlet orifice and the spray direction at the nozzle tip.

[0108] Finally, the pipe has a tortuous path extending from the first inlet hole through the second inlet hole to the outlet hole. Compared to Y-shaped and T-shaped pipe systems, this tortuous path (which simultaneously allows for the provision of a dispensing device that leaves no unmixed second component after use, and also allows for the provision of side-by-side reservoirs) extends the path for both the portion of the first component and the portion of the mixture of the two components.

[0109] "Twisty" refers to a path that has only linear and curved sections, without any angled sections. In one embodiment, the first section between the first inlet and the second inlet has a semi-circular shape, and the section between the second inlet and the outlet has an "S" shape, giving the tube a shape similar to a "question mark" ("?" shape).

[0110] The tube can have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as a circular or elliptical cross-section. The surface of the cross-section and its dimensions (maximum dimension, minimum dimension, average dimension, diameter, etc.) can vary or can be constant. In a preferred embodiment, the cross-sectional shape does not have sharp corners to avoid the accumulation of compounds or residues that may easily clog the tube. In the most preferred embodiment, the tube has a constant cross-section along its entire length. Alternatively, the tube can have a varying cross-section along its length. For example, the cross-section of a first portion can be smaller (or larger) than the cross-section of a second portion.

[0111] A common spray actuator may include a body and a skirt extending circumferentially downward (towards the reservoir). The body and skirt may be a single structure or may be separate components assembled together. Similarly, the body may be a single structure or may be at least two components assembled together. Providing a single-component common spray actuator or alternatively a multi-component common spray actuator may depend on the manufacturing method used. For example, a multi-component common spray actuator may be manufactured using conventional mass production techniques, while a single-component common spray actuator may be manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques, commonly known as 3D printing.

[0112] In one embodiment, the tube may be formed into the thickness of the body. In an alternative embodiment, the tube may be a separate element fixed to the body.

[0113] In one embodiment, the gap configured to receive the nozzle tip can be formed into the skirt. In an alternative embodiment, the gap can be formed into the thickness of the body.

[0114] The spray actuator may include a guiding device associated with a corresponding device of the reservoir and / or pump unit for stabilizing the assembly of the spray actuator and for preventing any unwanted swaying.

[0115] The spray actuator and its constituent elements, such as the body, skirt, and tube, can be made of any suitable material. Materials can be selected from ceramics, glass, resins, polymer-based materials, or composite materials.

[0116] When actuated, the spray actuator can dispense a sprayable composition in volumes of 10 to 250 μL, preferably 50 to 150 μL, and more preferably 70 to 100 μL.

[0117] nozzle tip

[0118] The spray dispenser also includes a nozzle tip. The nozzle tip is in fluid communication with the dispensing tube. Any conventional nozzle tip can be used.

[0119] The nozzle tip may include a vortex chamber for atomizing the composition obtained by mixing the first component and the second component.

[0120] The nozzle tip is configured to spray the composition in a given direction. Considering the outlet orifice of the tube and the relative position of its corresponding nozzle tip to the inlet orifice, the direction of the spray is generally perpendicular to the axis intersecting the inlet orifice of the tube. When standing in its resting position, the axis of the spray direction can be horizontal, or it can have a given angle relative to a horizontal reference axis, such as up to 30°.

[0121] The spray pattern can vary depending on the nozzle tip used and can be narrow, medium, or large. The shape of the spray pattern depends on the target application.

[0122] system

[0123] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a spray dispensing system comprising a spray dispenser, a first component, and a second component as described above;

[0124] The first component is held in the first storage container, and the second component is held in the second storage container;

[0125] The first component and the second component are different from each other; preferably, the first component comprises a volatile solvent, and the second component comprises microcapsules; and

[0126] During actuation, the first component and the second component are uniformly mixed and dispensed as a sprayable composition.

[0127] kit

[0128] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a kit as described in the first aspect, the kit comprising a spray dispenser module including a first pump unit, a second pump unit, a nozzle tip, and a common spray actuator; at least one first reservoir optionally filled with a first component, the at least one first reservoir configured to be removably coupled to the first pump unit; and at least one second reservoir optionally filled with a second component, the at least one second reservoir configured to be removably coupled to the second pump unit.

[0129] method

[0130] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method comprising the following steps:

[0131] A spray dispensing system is provided, the spray dispensing system comprising a spray dispenser filled with a first component and a second component as described in the first and second aspects;

[0132] Actuating the common spray actuator to pump and thereby uniformly mix a given portion of the first component and the second component to obtain a sprayable composition; and

[0133] The composition obtained by spraying. Attached Figure Description

[0134] Figure 1 This is a bottom perspective view of the common spray actuator of the spray dispenser according to the present invention.

[0135] Figure 2 This is a top perspective view of the common spray actuator of the spray dispenser according to the present invention.

[0136] Figure 3A bottom view showing the common spray actuator of the spray dispenser according to the present invention.

[0137] Figure 4 A top view of the common spray actuator of the spray dispenser according to the present invention.

[0138] Figure 5 This is a front view of the common spray actuator of the spray dispenser according to the present invention.

[0139] Figure 6 The common spray actuator of the spray dispenser according to the invention is along... Figure 3 The cross-sectional view of line BB shown.

[0140] Figure 7 The common spray actuator of the spray dispenser according to the invention is along... Figure 3 The cross-sectional view of line AA shown. Detailed Implementation

[0141] Figures 1 to 6 An embodiment of the common spray actuator 1 of the spray dispenser according to the present invention is shown, which should be interpreted as exemplary and not limiting. Figures 1 to 6 The common spray actuator shown is configured to be operatively associated with a first pump unit and a second pump unit (not shown), which are themselves in fluid communication with a first reservoir and a second reservoir (not shown), respectively.

[0142] The common spray actuator includes a tube 2. Tube 2 is designed to allow the dispensing of a measured amount of first and second components and the mixing of them into a homogeneous sprayable mixture, while preventing clogging of the first and / or second components over time. Tube 2 has a constant circular cross-section, forms a tortuous path, and includes three distinct orifices.

[0143] Pipe 2 includes a first inlet hole 3 with a circular cross-section located at one end of pipe 2. The first inlet hole 3 is in fluid communication with the first pump unit.

[0144] The tube 2 also includes an outlet orifice 4 with a circular cross-section located at the other end of the tube 2. The outlet orifice 4 is in fluid communication with the nozzle tip (not shown).

[0145] Pipe 2 includes a second inlet hole 5 with a circular cross-section, located between the first inlet hole 3 and the outlet hole 4. The second inlet hole 5 is in fluid communication with the second pump unit.

[0146] like Figure 3 As shown, the axis passing through the two inlet holes 3 and 4 (denoted as BB) intersects approximately perpendicularly with the axis passing through the outlet hole 4 and the spray direction of the nozzle tip (denoted as AA).

[0147] The tube 2 specifically includes two sections. The tube 2 includes a first section 21 formed between a first inlet orifice 3 and a second inlet orifice 5. Upon actuation, a given amount of the first component can be displaced from the first inlet orifice 3 toward the second inlet orifice 5. The tube 2 also includes a second section 22 formed between the second inlet orifice 5 and an outlet orifice 4. The given amounts of the first and second components are mixed before being dispensed through the outlet orifice 4 (and the nozzle tip).

[0148] The first section 21 between the first inlet hole 3 and the second inlet hole 5 has a "C" shape (semi-circular shape), and the second section 22 between the second inlet hole 5 and the outlet hole 4 has an "S" shape, so that the tube 2 has a shape similar to a "question mark".

[0149] The common spray actuator includes a body 7 and a circumferentially downward-extending skirt 8. The body 7 and skirt 8 form an integral structure. A tube is formed into the thickness of the body.

[0150] In addition to those described herein, variations and modifications of the invention and its further embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the entirety of this document. The subject matter of this document contains information, examples, and guidance suitable for practicing the invention in various embodiments and equivalents thereof. The appended claims are intended to cover all such variations, modifications, embodiments, and equivalents.

[0151] The invention has been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications can be made while remaining within its scope. All referenced publications, patents, and patent documents are intended to be incorporated by reference as if individually incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A spray dispenser for mixing a first component and a second component into a sprayable composition, the spray dispenser comprising: a) A first reservoir for holding the first component and a first pump unit in fluid communication with the first reservoir; b) A second reservoir configured to hold a second component different from the first component, and a second pump unit in fluid communication with the second reservoir; c) A nozzle tip configured to spray the composition; d) A common spray actuator, operatively associated with the first pump unit and the second pump unit and including tubing; The tube of the common spray actuator has a tortuous path and includes a first inlet port at one end in fluid communication with the first pump unit; and an outlet port at the other end in fluid communication with the nozzle tip; And a second inlet hole, which is located between the first inlet hole and the outlet hole and is in fluid communication with the second pump unit; and The axis passing through the two inlet holes intersects approximately perpendicularly with the axis passing through the outlet hole and the spray direction of the nozzle tip.

2. The spray dispenser of claim 1, wherein each reservoir has an open end and includes a body, a neck, and a shoulder that connects the body to the neck.

3. The spray dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spray dispenser comprises two separate, independent containers forming a first reservoir and a second reservoir, respectively; or comprises a container having a separating wall thereby defining two distinct compartments forming the first reservoir and the second reservoir, respectively.

4. The spray dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spray dispenser further comprises a housing for holding the two reservoirs in place.

5. The spray dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tube includes a first section between the first inlet orifice and the second inlet orifice, and a second section between the second inlet orifice and the outlet orifice; and wherein the first section has a generally semi-circular shape, and the second section has a generally "S" shape.

6. The spray dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the common spray actuator comprises a body and a circumferentially downward extending skirt.

7. A spray dispensing system comprising a spray dispenser according to any one of the preceding claims, the system further comprising a first component and a second component; The first component is held in the first storage container, and the second component is held in the second storage container; The first component and the second component are different from each other; and During actuation, the first component and the second component are uniformly mixed and dispensed as a sprayable composition.

8. The spray dispensing system according to claim 7, wherein the components are skin care components, hair care components, personal care components, grooming components, oral care components, health care components, fabric care components, or home care components.

9. The spray dispensing system according to any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the component is in liquid form under standard conditions.

10. The spray dispensing system according to any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the first component and the second component are different from each other at least by the presence of at least one material, by the proportion of at least one material, by at least one physicochemical property, by their visual appearance and combinations thereof.

11. The spray dispensing system according to any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein one of the components comprises a material that is inherently unstable under defined conditions, a material that is incompatible with another material contained in another component, a material that will be degraded by another material contained in another component, a compound that will chemically react with another material contained in another component, and mixtures thereof.

12. The spray dispensing system according to any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the first component comprises a volatile solvent or a non-volatile solvent.

13. The spray dispensing system according to any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the first component comprises a volatile solvent.

14. The spray dispensing system of claim 13, wherein the first component comprises a volatile agent selected from ethanol, methanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, and mixtures thereof.

15. The spray dispensing system of claim 14, wherein the volatile reagent is ethanol.

16. The spray dispensing system according to any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the second component comprises a fragrance, microcapsules, a suitable carrier, and at least one other agent selected from suspending agents, colorants, antioxidants, UV inhibitors, cyclodextrins, quenchers, skin care actives, and mixtures thereof; wherein at least a portion of the fragrance is encapsulated in the microcapsules.

17. A kit comprising a spray dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one first reservoir is configured to be removably coupled to the first pump unit; and wherein at least one second reservoir is configured to be removably coupled to the second pump unit.

18. A method for spraying a sprayable composition, the method comprising the steps of: a) Provide a spray distribution system according to any one of claims 7 to 16; b) Actuate the common spray actuator to pump and thereby uniformly mix a given portion of the first component and the second component to obtain a sprayable composition; as well as c) Spray the aerosolizable composition.

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