Aerosol container containing a food product

Abstract

An aerosol container containing a food product, wherein the container is provided with a manually operable discharge device (3), wherein the discharge device (3) comprises a coupling structure (10) for connecting the discharge device (3) to the aerosol container (1), wherein the discharge device (3) comprises a manually operable actuating member (7) which prior to initial use is in a first position relative to the coupling structure (10), wherein the discharge device (3) comprises blocking means (10b) for preventing a valve actuating movement of the actuating member (7) when the actuating member (7) is in its first position, wherein the actuating member (7) is movable relative to the coupling structure (10) from the first position to a second position providing an operating state of the actuating member (7) for actuating a discharge valve (4) of the container (1) for discharging the food product (F), in particular an operating state in which the actuating member is manually movable relative to the container (1) for actuating a valve stem (4a) of the valve, wherein the discharge device comprises locking means (7d) for locking the actuating member (7) in its operating state, in particular the locking means (7d) prevent the actuating member from moving back from the second position to the first position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol container for containing food products, wherein the container is provided with a manually operable discharge device, wherein the discharge device includes a connecting structure for connecting the discharge device to the aerosol container. Background Technology

[0002] WO2010 / 140881 discloses an assembly for dispensing a product, comprising a rigid aerosol container having at least one reservoir for containing a propellant and a food product, and an operable discharge valve for discharging the food product. The device has a manually operable discharge device configured to cooperate with the discharge valve to discharge the food product.

[0003] Specifically, during the operation of the aerosol container, when the discharge device is activated, cream is sprayed through a distal dispensing head and undergoes a so-called "overrun," thus obtaining 'spray cream' similar to ordinary whipped cream. In known devices, the container includes a valve device and a small discharge nozzle. During activation, the nozzle sprays cream into a food product containing space defined by the dispensing head, where the cream preferably expands to the desired extent and is vigorously agitated due to the expanding propellant.

[0004] The known device includes a connecting member that provides a reliable connection between the discharge device and the aerosol container. Prior to use, such as during transport, storage, and delivery of the container, a removable cover of the known connecting member protects the exterior of the aerosol valve, thus preventing accidental actuation. Additionally, the cover ensures hygiene, particularly by preventing human contact with the external valve components. Furthermore, the removable cover provides tamper detection. Additionally, according to embodiments, a disconnectable or tearable connection can be implemented to releasably retain the edge of the additional cap, thereby providing a tamper detection device. The fracturing nature of this tearable connection can be achieved through heat treatment, such as by ultrasonic welding or by applying heat in different ways to locally melt the material.

[0005] Considering consumer safety, tamper-evident labels are important for the distribution of food products. Known tamper-evident implementations of components work well but have some drawbacks. Tearing or breaking the tamper-evident portion of the component may require considerable (manual) force.

[0006] JP5311645B2 relates to the improved manufacture of aerosol containers.

[0007] JP2006-240735A discloses an aerosol container with a continuous action mode.

[0008] JP2000-005657A provides a nozzle for a liquid jet pump, wherein the trigger portion can be folded back to prevent trigger operation.

[0009] US4,428,509A relates to a dispensing apparatus for continuous aerosol dispensing.

[0010] CA718745A discloses an aerosol distribution structure that provides a cooperative protective shield for: a) locking the valve actuator to prevent accidental operation (during transport or shelf life); b) allowing the actuator to remain in place for continuous discharge; and c) allowing intermittent valve operation.

[0011] The object of this invention is to improve aerosol containers. In particular, the object of this invention is to provide a semi-professional or even professional container appearance, wherein the use of the container can be carried out in a straightforward manner without resulting in a significant increase in manufacturing costs. Additionally, it is desirable to maintain or even improve high hygiene standards. Summary of the Invention

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, this is achieved by an aerosol container as defined in claim 1.

[0013] Specifically, an aerosol container for containing food products is provided, wherein the container is provided with a manually operable discharge device, wherein the discharge device includes a coupling structure for connecting the discharge device to the aerosol container, wherein the discharge device includes a manually operable actuating member positioned relative to the coupling structure in a first position before initial use, wherein the discharge device includes a blocking device for preventing valve actuation of the actuating member when the actuating member is in its first position, wherein the actuating member is movable relative to the coupling structure from the first position to a second position, the second position providing an operating state of the actuating member for actuating the discharge valve of the container to discharge food products, particularly in the operating state, wherein the actuating member (at least a portion thereof) is manually movable relative to the container (to a third position) to actuate the valve stem of the valve, wherein the discharge device includes a locking device for locking the actuating member in its operating state, particularly the locking device preventing the (entire) actuating member from moving from the second position back to the first position.

[0014] In this way, an improved tamper-evident aerosol container for food products can be achieved. For example, before the first initial use (e.g., during storage or transportation of the container), the actuating member is in its first position (i.e., the idle passive position). In this position, the actuating member cannot move in the direction of operating the valve of the container (e.g., pressing down), thereby preventing undesirable accidental discharge of food products.

[0015] During initial use, when the first discharge of food product is required, the user can move (e.g., rotate) the actuating member to its second position, which is an operational (i.e., active, activated) state. This allows the user to operate the actuating member to move the aerosol valve to the open position, resulting in product discharge. Operating the actuating member may, for example, involve manually moving the entire actuating member or a portion thereof relative to the connecting member. A locking device of the discharge device ensures that the actuating member remains in its second position (operated by the user to achieve, for example, a third operational valve open position), preventing the actuating member from returning to the first (idle) position. Preferably, the locking device of the discharge device applies a mechanical locking force to the actuating member to lock it in its second position, wherein the locking force cannot be overcome without damaging (e.g., plastic deformation or breakage) the components of the discharge device. Thus, the position actuating member itself provides a clear and strong tamper-evident indicator (the actuating member being in its first position means that the aerosol container has not yet been used to discharge food product).

[0016] Furthermore, the structure of this invention provides a semi-professional or even professional container appearance, allowing for direct use of the container without significantly increasing manufacturing costs. Additionally, the aerosol container of this invention maintains or even improves high hygiene standards.

[0017] It should be noted that the actuating member may optionally be held in its first position by a tearable or detachable connection, but this is not necessary. Rather, preferably, there is no tearable or detachable connection to hold the actuating member in its first position. In a preferred aspect, the removable cover, releasable clamping device, and / or releasable pawl device of the discharge device can releasably hold the actuating member in its first position before first use, allowing the user to relatively easily move the actuating member to its second position (by overcoming the corresponding clamping or pawl force and / or removing the optional cover, thereby releasing the actuating member).

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the locking device may include a hook-shaped member, such as part of an actuating member or a connecting structure, configured to enter a locked state to lock the actuating member in its operating state when the actuating member moves from its first position to its second position. This achieves a relatively secure locking of the second position of the actuating member. According to another embodiment, the locking device includes a hook-shaped member locking structure for receiving and holding the hook-shaped member when the actuating member is in its operating state, wherein the hook-shaped member and the locking structure are preferably configured to cooperate to allow valve-actuated movement of the actuating member when the actuating member is in its operating state. For example, when the actuating member moves from the first position to the second position, the hook-shaped member may snap into the locked position relative to the locking structure, wherein the locking structure still provides a certain degree of freedom or path of motion that allows the hook-shaped member to move in the same direction as the movement of the actuating member during valve actuation of the actuating member. In this way, the movement of the actuating member for opening the container valve is not blocked by the hook-shaped member and the corresponding locking structure.

[0019] In addition, one aspect of the present invention provides a manually operable discharge device, which is obviously configured as part of the aerosol container according to the present invention.

[0020] In addition, one aspect of the present invention provides the use of the aerosol container according to the invention, comprising the following steps:

[0021] - Provides an aerosol container with an actuating member in its first position relative to the connecting structure;

[0022] - The actuating member is moved from the first position to the second position relative to the connecting structure, such that the actuating member is locked in its operating state; and

[0023] - Manually actuate the actuating component (e.g., by moving at least a portion of the actuating component relative to the connecting structure) to discharge food products from the container.

[0024] In this way, the above advantages can be achieved. Attached Figure Description

[0025] In the following description, exemplary embodiments and accompanying drawings will be used to further explain the invention. The drawings are schematic. In the drawings, similar or corresponding elements have similar or corresponding reference numerals.

[0026] Figure 1 A longitudinal sectional view of a portion of a prior art aerosol container is shown;

[0027] Figure 2AThis is a side view of a portion of an aerosol container according to the invention, having an optional lid, wherein the actuating member is in its first position;

[0028] Figure 2B and Figure 2A Similarly, an example without an optional cover is shown, where the actuating component is locked in its second position;

[0029] Figure 2C is similar to Figure 2B, in which the actuating component operates the valve of the aerosol container;

[0030] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2A A bottom-view perspective view of the example portion in Figure 2C;

[0031] Figure 4 shows Figure 2A Top perspective view of the example portion in Figure 2C;

[0032] Figure 5 shows a side view of the components of the device shown in Figure 4;

[0033] Figure 6 shows a rear view of the components of the device shown in Figure 4;

[0034] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII of Figure 5;

[0035] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII of Figure 6;

[0036] Figure 9 It shows Figure 2A Top perspective view of another part of the example in Figure 2C;

[0037] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 The other part is shown in a bottom-view stereoscopic view;

[0038] Figure 11 shows Figure 9 Front view of the component shown;

[0039] Figure 12 is Figure 9 Top view of the component shown;

[0040] Figure 13 is Figure 9 A bottom view of the component shown;

[0041] Figure 14 It shows Figure 9 Details Q;

[0042] Figure 15 A cross-sectional view taken along line XV-XV in Figure 11 is shown;

[0043] Figure 16 A perspective view of a portion of the aerosol container according to the invention before assembly is shown.

[0044] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A top view of the implementation in the assembled state;

[0045] Figure 18 yes Figures 16 to 17 A side view of the implementation method;

[0046] Figure 19A yes Figures 16 to 18 A bottom view of the component;

[0047] Figure 19B is Figure 19A Details Y1;

[0048] Figure 19C is Figure 19A Details Y2; and

[0049] Figure 20 Perspective views of two embodiments similar to the second embodiment are shown. In the embodiment shown on the left, the actuating member is in its first position, while in the embodiment shown on the right, the actuating member is in its second position. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Figure 1 An aerosol container 1 (at least its upper portion) containing food product F is shown. Container 1 has a reservoir 2 containing propellant and food product, and an operable discharge valve 4 or valve device having a valve stem 4a for discharging the food product. Specifically, the valve may be located at the upper portion of the container.

[0051] This container 1 can be configured for inverted use, and therefore does not include a dispensing mechanism. As an example, container 1 may be provided with an operable valve device 4, which includes a downward (i.e., towards the bottom of the container) pressable food product spray rod 4a and a spring device for counteracting the pressure of the rod 4a, as is understood by those skilled in the art in currently commercially available aerosol containers for sprayed food products. For example, pressure on the food product nozzle / rod 4a causes the valve device to open, allowing a portion of the food product and propellant to be sprayed toward the dispensing head for dispensing. The aforementioned spring device can push the valve to the closed position.

[0052] Each container 1 is preferably a compact, lightweight structure (e.g., having a total volume of less than 1 liter). Also, for example, initially, the weight of the packaging container 1 containing food products may be less than 1 kg, such as about 750 g or 250 g. According to embodiments, such containers are made of tinplate or aluminum, coated internally, and have a substantially cylindrical shape. As mentioned above, the containers can also be made of different materials, such as rigid plastics. Furthermore, the aerosol container 1 of the present invention is of a non-refillable type and is discarded after use. This container 1 has a relatively inexpensive, durable structure with few parts. Typically, the upper end of the container may include a circumferential flange 18, which is, for example, an integral part of the container wall (here, it should be noted that such a valve structure can provide part of the container wall, or be fixed to the container wall, thereby sealing the container at its upper part).

[0053] Container 1 may include at least one reservoir 2 containing a food product and a suitable propellant, the food product being safe for consumption. As a non-limiting example, an aerosol container may package a food product and a propellant, with an initial pressure within the container, for example, in the range of 7-18 atmospheres, depending on the amount of food product packaged, as those skilled in the art will understand. From a food product technology point of view, the propellant may consist of one or more acceptable gases, such as gases substantially dissolved in the food product, gases substantially insoluble in the food product, and combinations of these gases. In particular, the propellant may include CO2, nitrogen (N2), nitrous oxide (N2O), or combinations of these gases (such as nitrogen and nitrous oxide). For example, 15-25 wt% of the propellant may be N2, and the remainder (i.e., 85-75 wt%) may be N2O.

[0054] At least a portion of the propellant may be packaged separately from the food product, for example, in the case where the container is provided with a separate reservoir, such as a movable or flexible partition to provide this separation (as in European patent application EP1061006A1). For example, the container may include a first container holding the product and a second container holding the propellant (separate from the product).

[0055] In another embodiment, the propellant and food product are packaged together in the same container in an aerosol container (e.g., where the container has a single container).

[0056] In specific embodiments, the food product includes cream. In this case, as those skilled in the art will understand, the “spray cream” obtained by using the aerosol container 1 of the present invention is generally very different from conventional whipped cream (obtained by manually or automatically whipping ordinary cream without the use of a cream propellant). Additionally, when the food product includes cream as an ingredient, the food product may include various other ingredients, such as sugar, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and flavorings. Preferably, the fat content of the cream is in the range of about 5% to 50%, for example, about 40%. Another cream composition may include fat emulsion components (particularly cream or ordinary cream) and non-fat emulsion components (e.g., skim milk), see EP1061006A1. Typically, the cream food product may contain at least 80 wt% of one or more milk components, preferably at least about 90 wt%.

[0057] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the container may be provided with a manually operable discharge device 103, wherein the discharge device 103 includes a connection structure 110 for connecting the discharge device 103 to the aerosol container 1 (e.g., to the circumferential flange 110). In some embodiments, the discharge device 103 is securely and non-removably attached to the container 1. In other preferred embodiments, the discharge device is detachably connected to the container 1.

[0058] For example, the connecting member 110 and the container flange 18 can be firmly held together by clamping force and optionally by adhesive. In another embodiment, the connecting member 110 may be made of an elastic material that provides clamping force to firmly clamp the container after assembly. Optionally, the connecting member 110 and the container 1 are provided with one or more blocking members and / or friction-enhancing surfaces that interact with each other to prevent rotation / rotation of the connecting member 101 relative to the container 1.

[0059] The discharge device 103 may also include a manually operable actuating member 107 and a dispensing head 105. The manually operable discharge device 103 may be configured to cooperate with the discharge valve 4 (particularly the rod 4a) of the container to discharge food product via the dispensing head 105. Preferably, the dispensing head 105 and the actuating member 107 are integrally formed, for example, by a plastic molding process (e.g., injection molding or otherwise).

[0060] Additionally, the dispensing device 103 may include an optional cover 108, for example, to cover the dispensing head 105 before use.

[0061] The manually operable discharge device (i.e., discharge mechanism) may include a laterally extending rod 107 as an actuating member, which is pivotally connected to a mounting member 103a via a pivot shaft 103d located at or near the front of the mounting member 103a of the device 103. The rod 107 provides an actuating member configured to be manually pressed downwards (towards the container) to operate the discharge valve 4 via a corresponding valve stem 4a. Specifically, Figure 1 The lever 107 is shown in its initial idle position. From this position, the lever 107 can be pressed against the mounting member 103a to a second position (causing the lever 107 to pivot relative to the pivot axis 103d) to operate the container valve 4 (i.e., to axially move the valve stem 4a from the valve closed position to the valve open position).

[0062] Additionally, the discharge device 103 may include a distal product dispensing head 105 configured to connect directly to the distal portion of the stem 4a of the container valve 4 after installation, allowing product to flow from the valve into the dispensing head 105. For example, after assembly, the valve stem 4a protruding from the container 1 may extend into the central valve receiving neck 105a of the dispensing head, the neck 105a including one or more channels for conveying the product received from the valve at the neck 105a to a food product receiving space defined within the dispensing head 105.

[0063] Figure 2A Figures 2B and 2C illustrate portions of the improved aerosol container 1, specifically showing a container 1 with an improved discharge device 3 that provides improved user interaction and a tamper-evident indication. Typically, Figure 2A Examples in Figures 2B and 2C Figure 1 The difference between the examples is that the corresponding actuating member 7 (initially) can move relative to the corresponding container connection structure 10 from a first position to a second position, the first position being the initial position before the first use. Figure 2A As shown in Figures 2B and 2C, the second position is the operating position, in which the actuating member 7 can be manually moved to operate the container valve 4 (by moving member 7 to the third position, as shown in Figure 2C). Furthermore, preferably, when the actuating member 7 has been moved to its second position, the actuating member 7 cannot return to its first position. Therefore, the actuating member 7 itself provides a tamper-evident feature for the aerosol container 1.

[0064] Specifically, for example, the aerosol container 1 may be provided with a manually operable discharge device 3, wherein the discharge device 3 includes a connecting structure 10 for connecting the discharge device 3 to the aerosol container 1, wherein the discharge device 3 includes a manually operable actuating member 7, which is located in the first position relative to the connecting structure 10 before initial use.

[0065] The actuating member 7 may integrally include or be provided with a dispensing head 5 for dispensing food product F, wherein the dispensing head 5 preferably extends axially opposite to the valve stem 4a of the container valve 4 to receive food product therefrom (as in the first embodiment, i.e., via the neck 5a of the dispensing head).

[0066] The actuating member 7 of the discharge device 3 can be constructed in various ways, including by plastic molding processes (e.g., injection molding or other methods), integral manufacturing, or manufacturing from several parts joined / fixed together. Such an actuating member 7 is shown in more detail in Figures 4 through 8.

[0067] Similarly, the connecting structure 10 of the discharge device 3 can be constructed in various ways. For example, the connecting structure 10 of the discharge device 3 can be a connecting member manufactured by a plastic molding process (e.g., injection molding or other methods). The connecting structure 10 can, for example, be made as a single piece, or made of several parts connected / fixed together. Figures 9 to 15 The connection structure 10 is shown in more detail below.

[0068] In particular, Figures 9 to 15 The connecting structure 10 shown is configured to receive the actuating member 7 shown in Figures 4 to 8, in Figure 2A Figure 2B, Figure 2C Figure 3 The assembly status is shown in the image.

[0069] As shown in the figure, the actuating member 7 can be moved (e.g., rotated) relative to the connecting structure 10 from a first position to a second position. The second position provides an operating state for the actuating member 7 to actuate the discharge valve 4 of the container 1 to discharge food product F. Specifically, in this operating state, the actuating member can be manually moved (e.g., depressed) relative to the container 1 to actuate the valve stem 4a. In particular, the direction of movement of the actuating member 7 from its first position to its second position differs from the direction of movement during valve actuation (the former direction of movement is, for example, a circumferential direction relative to the container's central axis X, and the latter is a pivoting direction relative to a pivot axis P, which is orthogonal to the container's central axis X). For example, the actuating member can be fully or partially manually moved (e.g., depressed) relative to the container 1 to actuate the valve stem 4a (see also, for example...). Figures 16 to 18 An example in which the actuating member itself includes a manually operable pressing member 207a, the pressing member 207a being pivotally connected to the guided portion 207b of the actuating member.

[0070] The discharge device 3 preferably includes a blocking device 10b for preventing valve actuation movement of the actuating member 7 when the actuating member 7 is in the first position. Specifically, when the actuating member 7 is in its first position, the actuating member 7 may already have a cooperative connection with the valve stem 4a, for example, via the neck 5a of the dispensing head, which may be positioned on the valve stem 4a. In this case, the actuating member movement blocking device 10b prevents valve operation. For example, the blocking device may include an integral portion 10b of the coupling structure 10 that connects / couples the discharge device 3 to / connects it to the aerosol container 1.

[0071] According to an embodiment, the sidewall 10a of the connecting structure 10 may define (close) a guide space G, and the actuating member 7 has a guided portion 7b (e.g., a guided body portion 7b) held in the guide space G (i.e., in the connecting structure 10). The actuating member 7 also includes a manually operable pressing member 7a, such as a lever or knob, which extends laterally from the guided portion 7b out of the connecting structure 10. The pressing member 7a and the guided portion 7b of the actuating member are preferably integrated with or fixed to each other, for example, integrally formed, such that the pressing member 7a and the guided portion 7b move together (i.e., movement of the pressing member 7a causes movement of the guided portion 7b).

[0072] The actuating member 7 is rotatably (slidably) held by the connecting structure 10, such that the actuating member 7 can rotate about a rotation axis X from a first position to a second position. Specifically, the rotation axis X is the centerline X of the container 1 or extends parallel to the centerline X of the container 1, and / or parallel to the valve stem of the discharge valve 4 of the container 1. In particular, the guided portion 7b of the actuating member 7 and the connecting structure 10 can be configured to be rotatably connected to each other. One or more radially projecting locking cams 7t (e.g., as part of the guided portion 7b of the actuating member 7) may be present to prevent the actuating member from being axially removed from the connecting structure. Additionally, the guided portion 7b of the actuating member 7 and the connecting structure 10 can be configured to cooperate to limit the sliding / rotational movement of the actuating member 7.

[0073] The sidewall 10a of the connecting structure 10 may be a generally circumferential wall, such as an upright sleeve or neck, and may extend concentrically relative to the central axis X of the container 1 after installation. In one embodiment, the sidewall 10a of the connecting structure includes a circumferential shoulder portion 10d for connecting the connecting structure to the container 1 (e.g., to the edge 18 of the container 1).

[0074] According to an embodiment, the sidewall 10a of the connecting structure 10 has a first recessed portion 10b and a second recessed portion 10c, wherein when the actuating member is in its first position (e.g., Figure 2AWhen the actuating member 7 is in its second and third positions (as shown in Figures 2B and 2C), the first notch portion 10b is used to receive (and support) the proximal portion of the pressing member 7a. Figure 3 As shown, the second notch portion 10c (e.g., circumferentially adjacent to the first notch portion 10b) is used to receive (and axially guide) the same proximal portion of the pressing member 7a. Specifically, the height of the first notch portion 10b (measured axially, parallel to the container centerline X) is such that when the pressing member extends through the notch portion 10b, the pressing member 7a of the actuating member 7 rests on (is supported by) the upper edge of the sidewall 10a. Thus, the first notch portion 10b of the connecting structure 10 prevents actuating movement of the actuating member 7 (i.e., downward movement towards the container wall). Additionally, the first notch portion 10b allows the actuating member 7 to rotate towards and enter the second notch portion 10c of the connecting structure wall 10a.

[0075] Specifically, the height of the adjacent second notch portion 10c (measured axially and parallel to the container centerline X) allows the pressing member 7a of the actuating member 7 to be manually actuated to open the container valve 4, i.e., to allow the actuating member 7 to move downward toward the container wall (as shown in Figure 2C). The height of the second notch portion 10c may, for example, be at least twice the height of the first notch portion 10b.

[0076] The circumferential width of the first notch portion 10b is preferably approximately equal to or slightly greater than the circumferential width of the pressing member 7a, so that when the member is in its first position, stable support and downward movement of the pressing member 7a can be achieved.

[0077] The circumferential width of the second notch portion 10c is preferably slightly larger than the circumferential width of the pressing member 7a, thereby allowing sufficient circumferential space for guiding the pressing member 7a between the respective operating positions.

[0078] The discharge device 3 may include a retaining device for releasably retaining the actuating member 7 in its first position. For example, a removable (optional) cap 8 may be configured to retain the actuating member 7 in place, or on the edge of the wall 10a of the connecting structure, and / or prevent rotational movement of the corresponding laterally extending pressing member 7a. Additionally or alternatively, the top edge of the side wall 10a of the connecting member 10 may include a relatively small protrusion or cam portion 10e at the first recess 10b or between the first recess 10b and the second recess 10c, for retaining the pressing member 7a in the first recess 10b with a relatively low retaining force, for example with the cap 8, or independently of the cap 8. The operator can overcome the relatively small retaining force by moving the pressing member 7a to the second recess 10c along the cam portion 10e without damaging the corresponding discharge device component.

[0079] The discharge device 3 preferably includes a locking device 7d for locking the actuating member 7 in its operating state. In particular, the locking device 7d prevents the (entire) actuating member from moving from the second position back to the first position. In this way, optimal anti-tampering characteristics are obtained. As mentioned above, preferably, the locking device 7d of the discharge device 3 can apply a mechanical locking force to the actuating member 7 to lock the member in its second position, wherein the locking force cannot be overcome without damaging (e.g., plastic deformation or fracture) components of the discharge device such as the actuating member 7 and / or the connecting structure 10.

[0080] exist Figure 3 An embodiment of the locking device 7d is shown in more detail below. The locking device may include a hook-shaped member 7d, which may engage with a corresponding locking position, for example, when the actuating member 7 enters its operating position.

[0081] According to the example, the hook-shaped member 7d can be part of the actuating member 7 (see example). Figure 3 ), or it can be a part of the connecting structure 10. Figure 3 The hook 7d is shown to have entered its locked state to lock the actuating member 7 in its operating state, wherein the actuating member 7 has entered its second position (from its first position).

[0082] The locking device may include a hook-shaped member locking structure 10n for receiving and retaining the hook-shaped member 7d when the actuating member 7 is in its operational state. The hook-shaped member 7d and the locking structure 10n may be configured to cooperate to allow axial valve-actuated movement of the actuating member 7 when it is in its operational state. For example, when the actuating member 7 is operated, the locking surface of the hook-shaped member 7d facing the locking structure 10n may slide axially along the locking structure 10n. Additionally, for example, the guided portion 7b of the actuating member 7 may include an axial recessed portion 7n for receiving the locking structure 10n of the coupling structure 10 during such operation. In an embodiment, the hook-shaped member 7d may be defined by the axial recessed portion 7n of the coupling structure 10 and another circumferential recessed portion 7m (providing L-shaped recesses 7m, 7n). The hook-shaped member 7d may be, for example, an elastic hook-shaped member 7d, which can elastically deform or deflect upward during the circumferential passage of the locking structure 10n (during the movement of the actuating member 7 from its first position to its second position) so as to return to the initial undeformed or undeflected state when the locking structure 10n enters the axial recess portion 7n.

[0083] When the actuating member 7 is in its second position (locked in this position), the actuating member 7 can, for example, pivot relative to the coupling structure 10 to its third position to press down the valve stem 4a (in order to open the valve). The manually operable actuating member 7 may include a pivoting portion 7p (see FIG. 5), such as a protrusion, which is configured to define a pivot axis P together with the pivoting portion 10p of the coupling structure 10 (see FIG. 5). Figure 14 The pivoting portions 7p and 10p are configured to provide pivot valve actuation movement of the actuating member 7 when the member is in its operating state. When the actuating member 7 has moved from its first position to its second position, the pivoting portions 7p and 10p are preferably engaged with each other. For example, the pivoting portion 7p of the actuating member 7 may be a portion of the guided portion 7b and may be located in the guide space G defined by the connecting member 10.

[0084] During operation, initially, before first use (when the container has not yet dispensed any product F), the actuating member 7 is in its first position relative to the connecting structure 10 (see...). Figure 2A In this position, the actuation movement (i.e., pivoting movement) of the actuating member 7 can be blocked by the blocking device 10b of the connecting structure (e.g., the upper edge of the groove or notch portion 10b).

[0085] For the initial product dispensing, any optional cap 8 can be removed, and the actuating member 7 can be rotated from its first position to its second position relative to the connecting structure 10 (as shown in FIG. 2B). For example, the user can manually press the pressing member 7a laterally to rotate the pressing member 7a out of the first recess portion 10b and into the second recess portion 10c of the connecting member 10. According to an embodiment, this movement may include overcoming the holding force provided by the cam portion 10e of the dispensing device 3 (e.g., the edge of the sidewall 10a of the connecting member). Additionally, this movement may include deforming or deflecting the locking hook member 7d of the dispensing device 3 from its initial undeformed state.

[0086] Once the actuating member 7 enters its second position, the actuating member 7 is locked in its operational state. For example, this may include being in a locked position (such as...). Figure 3 (As shown) the hook-shaped member 7d is engaged in the appropriate position. Preferably, once the actuating member 7 is locked in its second position, it is not possible to subsequently rotate the actuating member 7 back to its first position (at least not without damaging or destroying the device components). For example, once the actuating member 7 enters its second position, the hook-shaped member 7d returns to its initial undeformed or undeflected state, and the locking structure 10n enters the corresponding axial recess 7n.

[0087] Then, the user can manually operate the actuator 7 by pressing the corresponding member 7a to discharge the food product F from the container 1. The user pivots / tilts the actuator 7 (and the corresponding dispensing head 5) to its third position (Fig. 2c).

[0088] Therefore, the user-operable pressing component (e.g., handle) 7a can only be used (to activate) after it has been rotated to the appropriate second position relative to the base portion (i.e., the connecting component) of the dispensing device 3. In this way, the rotational position of the pressing component itself provides an identifiable start. In addition, changes in the automatic activation of the dispensing device 3 can be reduced, thus providing the aerosol container with improved user handleability.

[0089] Figures 16 to 1 9 and Figure 20 Other examples of the invention are shown, which are related to Figures 2 to 3. Figure 15The difference in the implementation is that the actuating member 207 (or actuating structure) of the dispensing device 203 includes a manually operable pressing member 207a, such as a rod or knob extending laterally from the guided portion (carrier / support portion) 207b, wherein the manually operable pressing member 207a is pivotally connected to the guided portion 207b, specifically, via a corresponding pivoting connector 207p (for providing a corresponding pivot axis orthogonal to the container's central axis X). The pivoting connector 207p may be, for example, a hinge membrane or a different type of connector. The dispensing head 205 may be integrally connected to the manually operable pressing member 207a, for example, or become part of the manually operable pressing member 207a (e.g., integrally formed with the manually operable pressing member 207a). The guided portion 207b of the actuating member may, for example, include a sidewall extending concentrically relative to the central axis of the container 1, the sidewall (207b) having a recess 207Y for receiving a portion of the pressing member 207a. Optionally, the guided portion 207b of the actuating member may include a top wall 207x having an opening for receiving (embedding) a proximal portion 207z of the pressing member 207a, the inner edge of which extends relative to the outer edge of the proximal portion 207z of the pressing member 207a by a relatively small distance (e.g., about 1 mm or less). Figure 20 A similar embodiment is shown, which has an actuating member 207' with a slightly different shape, having a guided portion 207b', a top wall 207X', a notch 207Y' and a corresponding pressing member 207a', as well as a corresponding connecting member 210' and a dispensing head 205'.

[0090] Additionally, the guided portion 207b of the actuating member can be rotatably held by the corresponding connecting structure 210 of the discharge device 203 (i.e., guided by the corresponding connecting structure 210 of the discharge device 203), such that the corresponding actuating member 207 can rotate relative to the connecting structure 210 about its axis of rotation X from its first position to a second position, wherein, in particular, the axis of rotation X extends parallel to the centerline of the container 1 and / or parallel to the valve stem of the discharge valve 4 of the container 1.

[0091] The connecting structure 210 can define the guide space G', and the guided portion 207b is (rotatably) held in the guide space G'.

[0092] The guided portion 207b of the actuating member can be rotatably coupled to the coupling structure 210 in various ways, for example, by means of a plurality of snap-fit ​​fingers 207v (e.g., three or more as in this embodiment), which protrude radially outward from the guided portion 207b and, after installation, snap behind / below the corresponding snap-fit ​​finger receiving portion 210W (e.g., a cam or rim portion) of the coupling structure 210 (thus axially locking the guided portion 207b to the coupling structure 210). The corresponding snap-fit ​​finger receiving portion 210W of the coupling structure 210 can extend, for example, around / along the guide space G', particularly in the circumferential direction (i.e., concentrically extending about the axis of rotation of the guided portion 207b).

[0093] The discharge device 203 may also include a blocking device 210b for use when the actuating member 207 is in its first position (e.g., Figure 17 , Figure 18 To prevent valve actuation movement of the actuating member 207 (as shown in Figure 19), a blocking device is configured, for example, similar to the one described above (with respect to the first example). The blocking device 210b may include, for example, a wall, edge, or cam structure facing the opposite bottom of the pressing member 207b, for example, facing the proximal portion 207z of the pressing member 207b, to block downward movement of the pressing member 207b (when the actuating member 207 is in its first position), and the blocking device 210b may be configured to allow downward movement of the pressing member 207b when the corresponding actuating member 207 has rotated to its second position.

[0094] Additionally, the discharge device 207 may include locking devices 207d, 210n for locking the actuating member 207 in its operational state. Specifically, locking device 207d prevents the actuating member (i.e., both its guided member 207b and pressing member 207a) from moving from the second position back to the first position. The locking device may include a hook-shaped member 207d, which, for example, is a portion of the guided member 207b of the actuating member, configured to... Figure 20 When the container 1) shown on the right enters the locked state, the guided member 207b of the actuating member is locked in its operating state. Optionally, the locking device (e.g., hook member 207b) may be provided by one or more of the aforementioned snap-fit ​​fingers 207v (see [link to documentation]). Figure 19A (Figures 19B and 19C). Alternatively, one or more dedicated locking devices may be provided, which are separate from such latching fingers 207v.

[0095] The locking device may also include a locking structure 210n, which is part of the coupling structure 210, for receiving and retaining hook-shaped members 207d (e.g., hook-shaped members 207d may be the aforementioned snap-fit ​​fingers 207v) when the guided portion 207b of the actuating member 207 has been moved to its operating state. The hook-shaped member locking structure 210n may include, for example, elastic protrusions, retaining hooks, barbs (see FIG. 19C), etc., which may, for example, be radially (e.g., inward or outward) elastically deformed or deflected during the circumferential passage of the hook-shaped member 207d to be locked (the passage produced by the rotation of the guided portion 207b of the actuating member 207 from its first idle position to its second position), so that once the hook-shaped member 207d or each hook-shaped member 207d has been received in / accommodated by the hook-shaped member locking structure 210n, it returns to the initial undeformed or undeflected or minimally deformed state shown. In Figure 19C, arrow DEF indicates the elastic deflection direction of the hook-shaped member locking structure 210n, and arrow PAS indicates the circumferential passage direction of the corresponding hook-shaped member 207d (to be locked). Preferably, after the hook-shaped member 207d or each hook-shaped member 207d has been received by the corresponding locking structure 210n, the guided portion 207b of the actuating member can no longer rotate relative to the connecting structure (i.e., the guided portion 207b is rotationally locked). In other words, preferably, the locking devices 207d, 210n of the discharge device 203 can apply a mechanical locking force to the guided portion 207b of the actuating member 207 to lock the portion in its second position, wherein the locking force cannot be overcome without damaging (e.g., plastic deformation or fracture) the components of the discharge device 203.

[0096] Additionally, in the rotationally locked position of the guided portion 207b, the pressing member 207b has moved away from the blocking device 210b, allowing the pressing member to be actuated (i.e., pivoted relative to the guided portion 207b to move to the corresponding third position) to dispense the product.

[0097] Figure 20 The container 1 is shown on the left, with the corresponding guide portion 207b' in an initial position, thus providing a first position for its actuating member 207'. In this position, the corresponding blocking device 210b prevents valve-actuated movement of the actuating member 207'.

[0098] Figure 20Container 1 is shown on the right, where the corresponding guided portion 207b' rotates relative to the connecting member 210' to its second position, thereby providing a second position for its actuating member 207'. In this position, the corresponding blocking device 210b does not prevent the valve actuation movement of the actuating member 207', i.e., the pressing member 207a' can be manually pivoted downward / inward relative to the guided portion 207b' (to the corresponding third position) to operate (open) the valve of container 1. Furthermore, after the corresponding guided portion 207b' has rotated relative to the connecting member 210' to its second position, the guided portion 207b' cannot rotate back to its first position (due to the locking action of the corresponding locking device). Thus, in these embodiments, when another portion (the manually operable pressing member 207a') moves to its third position, the portion of the actuating member (e.g., the guided portion 207b') can remain in its locked second position.

[0099] In addition, in the above embodiment, the pressing members 7, 207, 207' can be returned to their idle operating positions (i.e., from their third position to their second position after the user stops applying manual operation to the pressing members) by means of the spring device of the container valve 4, as will be clear to those skilled in the art, the spring device counteracts the pressing of the lever 4a (and pushes the valve to its closed position).

[0100] While the invention has been explained using exemplary embodiments and accompanying drawings, these embodiments and drawings do not in any way limit the scope of the invention, which is provided by the claims. It should be understood that many variations, substitutions, and extensions are possible within this scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the specification and drawings. For example, the term "actuating member" itself can be interpreted broadly, as it can refer to the structure of a single component (e.g., integrally formed) or multiple interconnected components, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0101] For example, those skilled in the art will understand that locking devices for locking an actuating member in its operating state can be constructed in various ways and may include, for example, one or more cooperating cam structures and / or cooperating notches (e.g., provided by one or more hook-shaped members and corresponding one or more hook-shaped member locking structures, which may be part of the coupling structure and the actuating member), wherein such one or more cam structures and / or notches can be locked together once the actuating member has entered its operating state.

Claims

1. An aerosol container for containing food products, wherein, The container is provided with a manually operable discharge device (3; 203), wherein the discharge device (3; 203) includes a connecting structure (10; 210) for connecting the discharge device (3; 203) to the aerosol container (1), wherein the discharge device (3; 203) includes a manually operable actuating member (7; 207), the actuating member (7; 207) being in a first position relative to the connecting structure (10; 210) before initial use. The discharge device (3; 203) includes a blocking device (10b; 210b) for preventing valve actuation of the actuating member (7; 207) when the actuating member (7; 207) is in its first position. The actuating member (7; 207) is movable relative to the connecting structure (10; 210) from a first position to a second position, the second position providing an operating state for the actuating member (7; 207) to actuate the discharge valve (4) of the container (1) to discharge food product (F), wherein at least a portion of the actuating member (7; 207) is manually movable relative to the container (1) to actuate the valve stem (4a) when the actuating member (7; 207) is in its operating state. The discharge device (3; 203) includes a locking device (7d; 207d) for locking the actuating member (7; 207) in its operating state, preventing the actuating member (7; 207) from moving back from the second position to the first position. The locking device of the discharge device (3; 203) is configured to apply a mechanical locking force to the actuating member to lock the actuating member in its operating state, wherein the locking force cannot be overcome without damaging the components of the discharge device (3; 203).

2. The aerosol container according to claim 1, wherein, The locking device includes a hook-shaped member (7d; 207d), which is part of the actuating member (7; 207) or the connecting structure (10; 210), configured to enter a locked state, thereby locking the actuating member (7; 207) in its operating state when the actuating member (7; 207) moves from its first position to its second position.

3. The aerosol container according to claim 2, wherein, The locking device includes a hook-shaped member locking structure (10n; 210n) for receiving and holding the hook-shaped member (7d; 207d) when the actuating member (7; 207) is in its operating state, wherein the hook-shaped member (7d) and the locking structure (10n) are configured to cooperate to allow valve actuation movement of the actuating member (7) when the actuating member (7) is in its operating state.

4. The aerosol container according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The discharge device (3; 203) includes a retaining device for releasably retaining the actuating member (7) in its first position.

5. The aerosol container according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The actuating member (7; 207) is rotatably held by the connecting structure (10; 210) such that the actuating member (7; 207) can rotate about a rotation axis (X) from the first position to the second position, the rotation axis (X) being parallel to the centerline of the container (1) and / or parallel to the valve stem extension of the discharge valve (4) of the container (1).

6. The aerosol container according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The connecting structure (10; 210) defines a guide space (G; G'), and the actuating member (7; 207) has a guided portion (7b; 207b) held in the guide space (G; G'). The actuating member (7; 207) also includes a manually operable pressing member (7a; 207a) that extends laterally from the guided portion (7b; 207b) out of the connecting structure (10; 210).

7. The aerosol container according to claim 6, wherein, The guided portion (7b; 207b) of the actuating member (7; 207) and the connecting structure (10; 210) are configured to cooperate to restrict the movement of the actuating member (7; 207).

8. The aerosol container according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The connecting structure (10) includes a sidewall (10a) having a first recessed portion (10b) and a second recessed portion (10c), wherein the first recessed portion (10b) is for receiving a portion of the pressing member (7a) when the actuating member is in its first position, and the second recessed portion (10c) is for receiving a portion of the pressing member (7a) when the actuating member (7) is in its second and third positions, wherein the circumferential width of the first recessed portion (10b) is approximately equal to or slightly greater than the circumferential width of the pressing member (7a), wherein the circumferential width of the second recessed portion (10c) is slightly greater than the circumferential width of the pressing member (7a), and wherein the sidewall (10a) of the connecting structure extends concentrically relative to the central axis of the container (1).

9. The aerosol container according to any one of claims 6-8, wherein, The guided portion (207b) of the actuating member has a plurality of snap-fit ​​fingers (207v) that protrude radially outward from the guided portion (207b) and axially lock the guided portion (207b) to the connecting structure (210) via a corresponding snap-fit ​​finger receiving portion (210w) of the connecting structure (210).

10. The aerosol container according to any one of claims 6-9, wherein, The manually operable pressing member (207a) is pivotally connected to the corresponding guided portion (207b) via a corresponding pivot connector (207p).

11. The aerosol container according to any one of claims 6-10, wherein, The manually operable actuating member (7) includes a pivot portion (7p) configured to define a pivot axis (P) together with a pivot portion (10p) of the connecting structure (10) for providing a pivot valve actuation movement of the actuating member (7) when the actuating member (7) is in its operating state, wherein the pivot portions (7p, 10p) engage with each other when the actuating member (7) moves from its first position to its second position.

12. The aerosol container according to claim 11, wherein, The pivot portion (7p) of the actuating member (7) is part of the guided portion (7b) and is located in the guiding space (G) defined by the connecting member (10).

13. The aerosol container according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein, The actuating member (7; 207) integrally includes or is provided with a dispensing head (5; 205) for dispensing food product (F), wherein the dispensing head (5; 205) of the actuating member extends axially opposite to the valve stem (4a) of the container valve (4) to receive the food product therefrom.

14. The aerosol container according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein, The locking device of the discharge device (3; 203) is configured to ensure that the actuating member is held in its second position, allowing the actuating member to be manually operated by the user, and the locking device prevents the actuating member from returning to the first position.

15. A manually operable discharge device (3; 203) configured as part of an aerosol container according to any one of claims 1-14.

16. A method of using an aerosol container according to any one of claims 1-14, comprising the following steps: An aerosol container (1) is provided, wherein the actuating member (7; 207) is in its first position relative to the connecting structure (10; 210); Relative to the connection structure, the actuating member (7; 207) is moved from the first position to the second position, thereby locking the actuating member in its operating state; as well as The actuating member is manually actuated to discharge the food product (F) from the container (1).

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