Dispensing storage and dispenser

Abstract

Dispensing device (2) for dispensing a fluid (F), wherein the dispensing device (2) comprises a pumping device (4) and an actuating lever (21) for actuating the pumping device (4), wherein the actuating lever (21) comprises a manually actuating arm (22) and a lifting arm (23) coupled thereto for driving the pumping device (4), wherein the actuating arm (22) can be secured against unwanted actuation by folding down and / or on a dispensing head (14) of the dispensing device (2) in a securing position, characterized by that the actuating arm (22) is movably connected to the lifting arm (23) by a film hinge (29) and / or that the actuating arm (22) can be fixed in a working position on the lifting arm (23).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a dispensing device for dispensing a fluid according to the preamble of claim 1 and a dispenser for dispensing a fluid according to the preamble of claim 7.

[0002] The present invention relates in particular to a dispenser for storing and dispensing cleaning agents or pharmaceutical or cosmetic fluids, especially liquids. A fluid can be contained in a container of the dispenser, which can be conveyed from the container by means of a dispensing device attached to the container and dispensed by the dispenser. The fluid can be dispensed in various forms, for example as a spray or aerosol or as a foam.

[0003] In principle, however, the following invention is versatile and can be used in any technical field where a fluid is dispensed from a container.

[0004] WO 2015 / 106868 A1 discloses a dispenser for liquids with a liquid reservoir in which the liquid is stored before dispensing, with an outlet channel through which the liquid can be released into the environment, and with a pump chamber whose volume can be reduced by means of an operating handle. An inlet valve of the pump chamber is formed by an annular sealing lip that is pre-tensioned against a counter surface and thus seals against it.

[0005] US Patent 2012 / 0024904 A1 discloses a liquid dispenser with a pumping device formed by a flexible bellows, which can draw liquid from a container of the dispenser. The pumping device is actuated, or the bellows is compressed, by pressing down on an axially movable actuating handle, which also has an outlet opening for the fluid. An inlet and outlet valve open automatically.

[0006] US Patent 5,114,052 relates to a hand-operated trigger pump. An actuating lever is integrally formed with the main body of a spray cap by means of a film hinge. The actuating lever engages positively with guide rails arranged on a bellows by means of two button-like guide elements, so that the bellows can be compressed with the actuating lever to dispense fluid.

[0007] US Patent 3,840,157 relates to a hand-operated spray device for dispensing a liquid with an operating lever. The operating lever actuates a cylinder-piston assembly for conveying or dispensing the liquid. When actuated, the cylinder-piston assembly is lifted from its associated seat, allowing air to pass between the seat and the cylinder-piston assembly into the container.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to enable a simple, reliable and / or safe function and / or a simple design of a dispensing device or dispenser and / or to prevent actuation and / or leakage of fluid during the transport of a dispenser in a simple or cost-effective manner.

[0009] The above problem is solved by a dispensing device according to claim 1 or by a dispenser according to claim 7. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0010] A proposed dispensing device is designed to dispense a fluid, in particular one contained in an associated container and / or connected to the dispensing device.

[0011] The dispensing device preferably comprises a pumping device with a flexible bellows for conveying the fluid. In particular, the fluid can be conveyed into the bellows by expansion of the bellows or by a negative pressure created by the expansion, and can be dispensed from the bellows by compression of the bellows.

[0012] The pumping device preferably has a base that is connected to the bellows on an inlet side. The base preferably has or forms a supply channel for the fluid.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the dispensing device has an actuating lever for actuating the pumping device or dispensing device. The base of the pumping device preferably has or forms an actuating surface for the actuating lever. This facilitates simple and reliable actuation of the pumping device or dispensing device and / or compression of the bellows.

[0014] It is not essential for the present invention that the dispensing device includes both an actuating lever and a pumping unit with a flexible bellows. The actuating lever for actuating the dispensing device can preferably be implemented without a pumping unit formed by a flexible bellows, or with any other pumping unit. However, the combination of the actuating lever and the pumping unit with a flexible bellows has proven to be particularly advantageous in a synergistic manner.

[0015] Preferably, a cone forming or comprising the feed channel of the base is held in a sealing manner in a seat or guide. The cone preferably has an external taper, particularly a conical one, so that when the dispensing device is actuated or the base undergoes axial movement, the cone is lifted from the seat or guide, thus creating a ventilation gap between the guide and the cone for venting a container. This allows for simple venting of the container with a simple dispensing device design. In particular, an additional venting valve or similar device can be omitted.

[0016] Preferably, the dispensing device has an inlet valve with a valve element for sealing an end opening of the feed channel. The valve element is preferably formed integrally with the bellows and held by one or more flexible arms of the bellows. This promotes a reliable seal of the feed channel and / or allows for a simple design with few parts.

[0017] According to the invention, the actuating lever has a manually operable actuating arm. The actuating arm can be secured against (unwanted) actuation in a locking position by folding it down and / or by attaching it to a spray head of the dispensing device. This prevents fluid from unintentionally escaping from the dispenser during delivery or transport when the dispenser is filled with a liquid and has a dispensing device as described above. In particular, no additional transport safety device, separate from or attached to the dispenser or the dispensing device, is required. This enables cost-effective production and / or delivery, as additional safety devices or components can be dispensed with. Furthermore, the proposed solution is particularly environmentally friendly, as it produces less waste.

[0018] Preferably, the actuating lever or arm can be locked in a locking position to prevent accidental activation, and, in particular, with the actuating lever in the locking position, an outlet opening of the dispensing device can be closed. In this way, a double safety mechanism can be implemented, effectively preventing the unintentional release of fluid.

[0019] The operating lever is specifically designed to move the base axially and / or compress the bellows. This contributes to simple and reliable operation.

[0020] The operating lever is preferably pivotably mounted on the dispensing device. This facilitates simple design and / or cost-effective production.

[0021] The actuating lever preferably comprises, or is formed by, an actuating arm for manual operation and a lifting arm for moving the base. The lifting arm is preferably arranged transversely, particularly at right angles, to the actuating arm, or can be arranged in this way, at least in one operating position of the actuating lever.

[0022] According to one aspect, the actuating arm is movably connected to the lifting arm by a film hinge. This allows the actuating arm to be folded away from the lifting arm in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0023] Another aspect is that the operating arm can be fixed to the lifting arm in a working position, particularly by means of a locking mechanism. This enables simple and reliable operation of the foldable operating arm.

[0024] A closure of the dispensing head or outlet opening is preferably designed to secure the actuating lever or arm against operation, at least in a closed position. This allows for simple transport securing without additional components.

[0025] The actuating lever or arm is preferably secured to the closure of the dispensing head or the outlet opening by a positive locking and / or detent mechanism. This contributes to reliable locking.

[0026] According to a further aspect, which can also be implemented independently, the present invention relates to a dispenser for dispensing a fluid, comprising a dispensing device and a container. The fluid can be conveyed from the container by the dispensing device and dispensed from the dispenser by means of the dispensing device.

[0027] The aforementioned and subsequent aspects and features of the present invention can be combined with each other as desired, but can also be implemented independently of each other.

[0028] Further aspects, features, advantages, and properties of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of a preferred embodiment with reference to the drawing. It shows: Fig. 1 a section of a proposed dispenser with a proposed dispensing device according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 an enlarged section of the delivery device; Fig. 3 a section of the delivery device with the pumping device activated; Fig. 4 a section through a bellows of the pumping device along the section line IV-IV from Fig. 2; Fig. 5 a perspective view of an operating lever of the dispensing device; Fig. 6 a section of a dispensing device according to a second embodiment in a secured position; Fig. 7 a perspective view of the delivery facility from Fig. 6 with the operating lever released or unlocked; and Fig. 8 a section of a dispensing device according to a third embodiment in a secured position.

[0029] In the figures, the same reference symbols are used for identical or similar components and equipment, whereby the same or corresponding advantages and properties may result even if a repeated description is omitted.

[0030] Fig. Figure 1 shows a proposed dispenser 1 with a proposed dispensing device 2 and a container 3.

[0031] The dispenser 1, or container 3, can contain fluid F. The dispensing device 2 is designed to pump the fluid F from the container 3 and to discharge or dispense the fluid F.

[0032] The fluid F is preferably a (low-viscosity) liquid, in particular a cleaning fluid or similar, but can also have a viscous to pasty consistency or a high viscosity. The dispensing of the fluid F by the dispensing device 2 preferably takes place as a spray or aerosol or as a foam. However, other solutions are also possible.

[0033] Dispenser 1 is preferably sold as a disposable item filled with Fluid F and / or sold to an end customer. Dispenser 1 is particularly suitable for cleaning fluids such as glass cleaner or similar products, but can also be used for any other fluids.

[0034] The dispenser 1 and / or the dispensing device 2 preferably have or form a housing 2A. The housing 2A is preferably made up of multiple parts.

[0035] The container 3 preferably forms a part or section of the housing 2A of the dispenser, or the housing 2A includes the container 3.

[0036] The proposed dispensing device 2 preferably includes a pumping device 4 for conveying the fluid F, in particular from the container 3.

[0037] In the illustrated preferred embodiment of the pumping device 4, it has a bellows 5 or the pumping device 4 is formed by the bellows 5. However, other solutions for the pumping device 4 are also possible instead of the bellows 5.

[0038] The pumping device 4 and / or the bellows 5 are preferably arranged at least partially inside the housing 2A or included in the housing 2A.

[0039] Preferably, the bellows 5 is flexible and / or elastically deformable, or the bellows 5 consists of a flexible and / or elastically deformable material.

[0040] The bellows 5 is preferably designed to return to its original, unactuated, or resting position after deformation. This will be discussed in more detail later.

[0041] The bellows 5 is preferably pre-tensioned and / or (slightly) compressed and installed or arranged in the dispenser 1, the dispensing device 2, or the pumping device 4. This particularly supports a reliable delivery of the fluid F.

[0042] The bellows 5 is preferably at least substantially cylindrical or hollow-cylindrical. A lateral surface or side wall 6 of the bellows 5 is preferably corrugated. This preferably increases the flexibility and / or elastic restoring force that returns the bellows 5 to its initial or rest position. Furthermore, the corrugated design preferably prevents damage during deformation of the bellows 5 and / or increases its stability.

[0043] The bellows 5 or the side wall 6 preferably runs coaxially to a central or longitudinal axis L of the dispenser 1 or the dispensing device 2.

[0044] The axis L is preferably aligned at least substantially vertically in a typical storage and / or operating position of the dispenser 1, as also shown in the figures. In particular, during use, the dispensing device 2 or its dispensing head 14 is usually at the top and the container 3 at the bottom. Specifically, the axis L runs parallel to gravity, at least in the storage position. In the storage position, the dispenser 1 preferably rests on the base of the container 3.

[0045] In the present invention, an "axial" direction or movement is preferably understood to be a direction or movement that runs along or parallel to the axis L. Similarly, the term "radial" preferably also refers to the axis L.

[0046] In the present invention, the terms “top” and “bottom”, as well as variations thereof and similar terms, preferably have the usual general meaning relating to the preferred orientation or position of use and, in the present invention, preferably refer to the storage position of the dispenser 1 or the dispensing device 2 shown in the figures.

[0047] The pumping device 4 or the bellows 5 preferably has an inlet 5A for the fluid F, an outlet 5B for the fluid F, and a pumping chamber or interior space 5C for receiving the fluid F. The interior space 5C is preferably formed between the inlet 5A and the outlet 5B and / or is laterally or radially bounded by the side wall 6.

[0048] Preferably, the pumping device 4 or the bellows 5 has an inlet valve 7 at inlet 5A and an outlet valve 8 at outlet 5B. The inlet valve 7 and the outlet valve 8 are preferably each designed as one-way valves. The inlet valve 7 enables or controls the supply of fluid F to the bellows 5. The outlet valve 8 enables or controls the discharge of fluid F from outlet 5B of the bellows 5.

[0049] The inlet valve 7 and the outlet valve 8 preferably open and / or close in a pressure-controlled or automatic manner, in particular by a pressure differential acting on the respective valve 7, 8. The specific design of the valves 7, 8 will be discussed in more detail later.

[0050] The pumping device 4 or the bellows 5 preferably has a base 9. The base 9 is preferably designed as a component separate from or manufactured separately from the bellows 5.

[0051] The base 9 is preferably axially movable and / or arranged within the housing 2A.

[0052] The base 9 is connected to the bellows 5, particularly on the inlet side. Preferably, the bellows 5 has a fastening section 5D via which the bellows 5 is connected to the base 9. The fastening section 5D is preferably at least substantially hollow cylindrical, ring-shaped, or conical. The fastening section 5D can be connected to or attached to the base 9 by force-fit, friction-fit, and / or material-fit, in particular by snapping, bonding, welding, and / or injection molding. The fastening section 5D preferably runs coaxially to the axis L.

[0053] The base 9 preferably has a bottom element 10. The bottom element 10 is preferably plate-like and / or preferably forms a (lower) end surface or a (lower or end-side) closure of the pump device 4 or the bellows 5 or the interior 5C. The bottom element 10 is preferably at least substantially disc-like and / or forms an annular surface.

[0054] The base element 10 preferably has a ring section 10A, which is particularly complementary to the fastening section 5D and is arranged particularly coaxially to the axis L and / or the fastening section 5D. Preferably, the fastening section 5D is attached to or connected with the ring section 10A.

[0055] The base 9 preferably has or forms a supply channel 11 for the fluid F, which in particular extends axially or parallel to the axis L. Preferably, the supply channel 11 opens into the inlet 5A of the bellows 5.

[0056] The feed channel 11 is preferably formed or limited by a line 12 of the base 9.

[0057] The conduit 12 and the base element 10 are preferably formed in one piece.

[0058] The base 9 with the base element 10 and the supply line 12 can, for example, be designed or manufactured as an injection-molded component and / or from plastic.

[0059] The bottom element 10 is preferably arranged at a distance from the upper axial end of the line 12 facing the bellows 5 and / or the lower axial end facing the container 3.

[0060] Preferably, the line 12 forms a connection and / or projects downwards or into the container 3.

[0061] The fastening section 5D is preferably arranged or fastened at an upper axial end of the line 12 facing the bellows 5.

[0062] The dispenser 1, dispensing device 2, or pumping device 4 preferably has a riser line 13 for the fluid F. The riser line 13 is preferably connected to the bellows 5 or the base 9, in particular to the feed channel 11 or the line 12, and / or to a lower end or to an end of the base 9 or line 12 facing away from the bottom element 10 and / or the bellows 5. The riser line 13 can be inserted into or attached to the line 12 or connected to the line 12 in some other way.

[0063] The riser pipe 13 preferably forms an extension of the pipe 12 or the feed channel 11. Preferably, the pipe 12 and the riser pipe 13 together form and / or delimit the feed channel 11.

[0064] The dispenser 1 or the dispensing device 2 preferably has a spray head or dispensing head 14 for dispensing or releasing the fluid F.

[0065] Preferably, the dispensing head 14 forms a part or section of the housing 2A or the housing 2A has the dispensing head 14.

[0066] The dispensing head 14 is preferably arranged on the outlet side of the bellows 5 or the pumping device 4 and / or is fluidically connected or connectable to the bellows 5 or the outlet 5B.

[0067] The dispensing head 14 preferably has a fastening element 14A for connecting or fastening the pumping device 4 or the bellows 5 to / on the dispensing head 14. The fastening element 14A is preferably a component separate from or manufactured separately from the dispensing head 14. However, other solutions are also possible.

[0068] Preferably, the fastening part 14A has one or more openings 14B for the fluid F, which are preferably slot-shaped.

[0069] The dispensing head 14 preferably has or forms an outlet channel 15, in particular extending transversely or perpendicularly to the axis L. The outlet channel 15 is preferably fluidically connected or connectable to the outlet 5B, in particular through the opening(s) 14B in the mounting part 14A, and opens into an outlet opening 16. Preferably, the fluid F can exit the dispensing head 14 via the outlet channel 15 and the outlet opening 16, or be dispensed by the dispenser 1 or the dispensing device 2.

[0070] The fluid F is preferably dispensed from the dispenser 1 or the dispensing device 2 by actuating the pump device 4 or the bellows 5, in particular by means of an actuating lever 21. The actuating lever 21 will be discussed in more detail later.

[0071] When using the dispenser 1 for the first time, it may be necessary to operate the pumping device 4 several times to remove air from the pumping device 4 and / or to pump fluid F from the container 3 into the dispensing device 2 or the pumping device 4 or the bellows 5 for the first time.

[0072] When the pumping device 4 is activated, the fluid F preferably flows from the container 3 into the dispensing device 2 or the pumping device 4 or the bellows 5 via the supply channel 11 or the line 12 and / or the riser line 13.

[0073] Preferably, the inlet valve 7 is designed such that it opens when the fluid F is pumped by the pumping device 4 or when fluid pressure is present on the supply channel side, thus enabling the fluid F to be pumped from the supply channel 11 through the inlet valve 7 into the interior 5C of the bellows 5.

[0074] The bellows 5 is preferably in an unactuated or resting position, which is in Fig. 1 is shown, and in an actuated or compressed position, which is in Fig. 3 is shown, positionable or arrangable or deformable into these positions.

[0075] The bellows 5 is preferably designed to automatically assume or return to its rest position, in particular by elastic return, when no force acts on the bellows 5 that would deform it from its rest position. Preferably, the bellows 5 is compressed axially or along the axis L in the actuated position. The compression of the bellows 5 is achieved in particular axially or parallel to the axis L and / or by pushing or folding together the corrugated side wall 6.

[0076] The bellows 5 is preferably held or attached in a stationary or immovable manner at the outlet side, in particular by or on the dispensing head 14. Preferably, the outlet 5B and / or the dispensing head 14 do not change their (axial) position relative to the housing 2A and / or the container 3 when the bellows 5 is compressed or deformed or when the dispensing device 2 or the dispenser 1 is actuated.

[0077] The bellows 5 is preferably held or attached so as to be movable at the inlet side, in particular by or on the base 9. Preferably, the inlet 5A and / or the base 9 change their (axial) position relative to the housing 2A and / or the container 3 when the bellows 5 is compressed or deformed or when the dispensing device 2 or the dispenser 1 is actuated.

[0078] Preferably, when the pump device 4 is actuated, an axial movement of the base 9 occurs, in particular upwards or in the direction of the bellows 5, and / or a compression or reduction in volume of the bellows 5 occurs.

[0079] The compression or reduction in volume of the bellows 5 causes an increased pressure of the fluid F located in the interior 5C of the bellows 5, so that the fluid F is present at an increased pressure at the outlet valve 8, through which the outlet valve 8 preferably opens.

[0080] The compression of the bellows 5 therefore preferably causes the fluid F to enter the outlet channel 15 through the outlet valve 8 and to leave it via the outlet opening 16, thus being discharged from the dispensing device 2.

[0081] When the operation of the pump device 4 is stopped or no compressive force (anymore) acts on the bellows 5, the bellows 5 preferably returns to its rest position, in particular by elastic return.

[0082] Preferably, the expansion of the bellows 5 from the compressed or actuated position to the rest position reduces the pressure in the interior 5C of the bellows, or a vacuum is created in the bellows 5 or its interior 5C during expansion, which preferably closes the outlet valve 8. Furthermore, the vacuum preferably opens the inlet valve 7, so that fluid F present in the supply channel 11 at the inlet valve 7 flows, or can flow, through the inlet valve 7 into the interior 5C of the bellows 5.

[0083] The inlet valve 7 is preferably formed by the line 12 and the bellows 5. In particular, the inlet valve 7 or the bellows 5 has a valve element 7A formed integrally with the bellows 5. Preferably, in a closed position of the inlet valve 7, the valve element 7A seals an end opening 11A of the supply channel 11 or the line 12, which opens into the interior 5C, in a fluid-tight manner. In particular, the opening 11A is sealed by the valve element 7A – at least in the closed position.

[0084] The valve element 7A is preferably held by one or more, in particular flexible, arms 7B of the bellows 5, especially in the closed position. The arms 7B are preferably web-like.

[0085] Arms 7B are particularly in Fig. 4 shown.

[0086] The valve element 7A is preferably pre-tensioned against the opening 11A or the feed channel 11, in particular by means of the arms 7B.

[0087] The arms 7B are preferably arranged between the mounting section 5D of the bellows 5 and the valve element 7A. The valve element 7A is preferably arranged coaxially to and / or centrally within the mounting section 5D.

[0088] The arms 7B preferably lie in a plane running transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis L.

[0089] Preferably, one end of an arm 7B is arranged on the valve element 7A and / or one end of an arm 7B is arranged on the mounting section 5D.

[0090] The arms 7B can extend radially or tangentially from or towards the valve element 7A.

[0091] Preferably, the arms 7B are curved or extend at their ends at least substantially radially and in a central or spaced-away section in a circular arc and / or coaxially to the axis L, in particular parallel to the outer contour of the valve element 7A and / or to the inner edge of the mounting section 5D. This makes the curved arms 7B longer than radially extending or arranged arms 7B, thus facilitating the opening of the inlet valve 7.

[0092] The outlet valve 8 is preferably formed by a sealing lip 8A, which is in particular annular and which – at least when the outlet valve 8 is closed – bears in sealing contact with a counter surface 8B, which is preferably annular and / or arranged coaxially to the axis L, and is in particular pre-tensioned against the counter surface 8B. In an open position of the outlet valve 8, the sealing lip 8A is lifted from the counter surface 8B, so that a gap is formed between the sealing lip 8A and the counter surface 8B, through which the fluid F can escape from the interior 5C of the bellows 5 and enter the outlet channel 15.

[0093] Preferably, the fastening part 14A has or forms the mating surface 8B.

[0094] Preferably, the dispenser 1 or the dispensing device 2 is designed such that when the pump 4 is activated, the container 3 is automatically vented, so that no (excessive) negative pressure is created in the dispenser 1 or the container 3 during the pumping and / or dispensing of the fluid F from the container 3. Such a negative pressure could lead to deformation of the container 3 and / or prevent or impede (further) pumping of the fluid F from the container 3, which is undesirable.

[0095] The dispenser 1 or the dispensing device 2 is preferably designed so that, when the pump device 4 is actuated, in particular when the bellows 5 or the base 9 is axially moved, a ventilation gap 17 is formed through which ventilation of the container 3 is enabled or takes place.

[0096] Preferably, the dispensing device 2 has or forms a seat or guide 18 for the base 9 or the line 12.

[0097] Preferably, the ventilation gap 17 can be formed between the line 12 and the guide 18.

[0098] The ventilation gap 17 is preferably designed in a ring shape.

[0099] The guide 18 is preferably at least partially ring-shaped and / or hollow cylindrical. The guide 18 is particularly arranged coaxially with the axis L.

[0100] The guide 12 is preferably held by or within the guide 18 and / or arranged or can be arranged in the guide 18.

[0101] The ventilation gap 17 is formed in particular by the fact that the line 12 is lifted or spaced away from the guide 18 during an axial movement.

[0102] In particular, the ventilation gap 17 is formed between the guide 18 and the line 12 when the pumping device 4 is actuated, especially when the bellows 5 is compressed or deformed from the rest position into the compressed position and / or when the base 9 is moved axially upwards or in the direction of the dispensing head 14.

[0103] The ventilation gap 17 is preferably formed during the axial movement of the base 9 or line 12 by the fact that the line 12 has or forms a (conically) tapered section or, in particular, a conical taper 19 on the outside.

[0104] The tapering 19 is preferably arranged in the area of ​​the guide 18 on the line 12.

[0105] The tapering 19 preferably changes the outer diameter of the line 12, in particular reducing it downwards or with increasing distance from the bellows 5.

[0106] The tapering 19, in particular during axial movement of the base 9 or line 12 (in the direction of the bellows 5 or upwards), changes the distance between the line 12 or tapering 19 and the guide 18, in particular increasing it, so that the ventilation gap 17 is formed.

[0107] The guide 18 preferably forms a seat and / or stop 18A for the line 12 and / or has one. The stop 18A is preferably designed to prevent and / or block axial movement of the base 9 or line 12 downwards or towards the container 3. The stop 18A is preferably designed as a projection extending radially inwards from the guide 18 or its inner surface, in particular as an annular bead.

[0108] Preferably, the dispenser 1 or the dispensing device 2 has an attachment or a connecting part 20.

[0109] Preferably the connecting part 20 forms a part or section of the housing 2A or the housing 2A has the connecting part 20.

[0110] The connecting part 20 preferably has or forms the guide 18.

[0111] Preferably, the dispensing device 2 is attached to the container 3 by means of the connecting part 20. The connecting part 20 can, for example, be screwed onto the container 3 and / or be snapped into place with the container 3. However, other solutions are also possible.

[0112] The connecting part 20 is preferably arranged axially between the container 3 and the bellows 5 and / or the dispensing head 14.

[0113] The dispenser 1, the dispensing device 2, or the housing 2A preferably comprises a housing part 2B. Preferably, the housing part 2B forms a part or section of the housing 2A. The housing part 2B is preferably designed at least substantially as a sleeve or ring, or as a hollow cylinder, and / or arranged coaxially to the axis L.

[0114] The housing part 2B is preferably arranged (axially) between the connecting part 20 and the dispensing head 14 or connects them together.

[0115] Preferably the bellows 5 is arranged inside the housing part 2B and / or coaxially to it.

[0116] The dispensing head 14, the mounting part 14A, the housing part 2B and / or the connecting part 20 can each be connected to one another by frictional, positive locking and / or liquid joining, in particular by snapping, screwing, bonding, welding or injection molding. It is also possible that one or more of the aforementioned parts 14, 14A, 2B, 20 are formed in one piece or form different sections of a single component.

[0117] Preferably, the dispensing device 2 or pumping device 4 has an actuating lever 21 for the manual actuation of the dispensing device 2 or the pumping device 4. Preferably, the pumping device 4 is actuated or the bellows 5 is compressed to dispense the fluid F (exclusively) by (manual) actuation of the actuating lever 21 by a user (not shown).

[0118] It should be noted at this point that the pumping device 4 or dispensing device 2 can also be implemented without the actuating lever 21 or actuated in a different manner than with the actuating lever 21 described in more detail below. For example, solutions are conceivable in which the actuation of the pumping device 4 or compression of the bellows 5 is effected by an axial movement or by pressing down a dispensing head, as described, for example, in WO 2015 / 106868 A1 or US 2012 / 0024904 A1.

[0119] It is also possible that the properties and features of the actuating lever 21 described below, particularly with regard to the safeguarding against actuation, are achieved independently of whether the pumping device 4 is implemented by or with a flexible bellows. For example, instead of the bellows 5, a cylinder-piston arrangement is also conceivable, for example, similar to the cylinder-piston arrangement described in US 3,840,157.

[0120] The actuating lever 21 is preferably pivotably arranged or mounted on the dispensing device 2 or the housing 2A.

[0121] The actuating lever 21 preferably has an actuating arm 22 and a lifting arm 23 which is coupled to the actuating arm 22 or is formed by them.

[0122] The actuating arm 22 is preferably arranged outside the housing 2A or housing part 2B. The lifting arm 23 is preferably arranged at least partially or predominantly inside the housing 2A or housing part 2B, or projects into it.

[0123] Preferably the housing 2A or housing part 2B has a recess or opening through which the actuating lever 21 or lifting arm 23 can be passed or passed.

[0124] The actuating lever 21 is particularly in Fig. 5 shown.

[0125] The actuating arm 22 is preferably designed for manual actuation by a user not shown.

[0126] The operating arm 22 can be curved or be ergonomically shaped. This contributes to easy and comfortable operation.

[0127] The lifting arm 23 is preferably designed to drive the pumping device 4, in particular to actuate or compress the bellows 5 and / or to move the base 9 axially, in particular upwards or in the direction of the outlet 5B and / or dispensing head 14.

[0128] The lifting arm 23 is preferably arranged on an end section of the actuating arm 22, in particular so that the greatest possible leverage effect can be generated via the actuating arm 22 during actuation.

[0129] In Fig. 2 is the actuating lever 21 in a first or unactuated pivot position and in Fig. Figure 3 shows the actuator in a second, or actuated, pivot position. Preferably, the actuating lever 21 is pivotable between the first, or unactuated, and the second, or actuated, pivot position.

[0130] The movement from the first to the second pivot position is preferably carried out by manual actuation or pivoting of the actuating lever 21 by a user not shown.

[0131] Preferably, the base 9, in particular the bottom element 10, forms or has a counter surface or actuation surface for the actuating lever 21 or lifting arm 23. The actuating lever 21 or lifting arm 23 preferably rests against the bottom element 10 or the actuation surface formed thereby and / or acts upon it, in particular when pivoting from the first to the second pivot position, and / or exerts a force upon it.

[0132] By actuating the actuating lever 21 or the actuating arm 22, in particular by pivoting it from the first to the second pivot position, the bellows 5 is preferably actuated or compressed and / or deformed or moved from the rest position to the compressed position. This is achieved in particular by rotating the lifting arm 23 about a pivot axis or a bearing part 24 during the actuating or pivoting movement, so that an end of the lifting arm 23 associated with or facing the base 9 is raised or moved in the direction of the bellows 5.

[0133] In particular, actuation of the actuating lever 21 or pivoting of the actuating lever 21 from the first to the second pivot position causes compression of the bellows 5 and / or discharge of the fluid F.

[0134] Preferably, the actuating lever 21 moves automatically from the second, or actuated, pivot position (back) to the first, or unactuated, pivot position, or no active movement or actuation of the actuating lever 21 is required. A movement from the second to the first pivot position can preferably be achieved by a user releasing the actuating arm 22.

[0135] The expansion of the bellows 5 and / or the movement of the actuating lever 21 from the second to the first pivot position, caused in particular by the expansion, preferably occurs through the (elastic) restoring force resulting from the preceding elastic deformation or compression of the bellows 5. During the expansion of the bellows 5, the base 9 or the bottom element 10 or the actuating surface formed therein preferably acts on the actuating lever 21 or lifting arm 23, or exerts a force on the actuating lever 21 or lifting arm 23, so that the actuating lever 21 is moved or pivoted from the second pivot position to the first pivot position.

[0136] Particularly preferably, the lifting arm 23 is formed by two parallel elements 23A, which are in particular arm-like or web-like in design and are connected to or arranged on the actuating arm 22 at one side. At the end opposite the actuating arm 22, the elements 23A and 23A are rigidly connected to each other by a further element 23B, which is arranged transversely or at right angles to them. In this way, a lifting arm 23 that is both stable and material-saving is formed. However, other solutions are also possible.

[0137] Preferably, a bearing element 24, which is particularly round or cylindrical, is arranged or attached between the elements 23A. The bearing element 24 preferably extends transversely, particularly vertically, between and / or to the elements 23A. The bearing element 24 is preferably formed integrally with the lifting arm 23 and / or the actuating arm 22. For example, the actuating lever 21, the actuating arm 22, and / or the lifting arm 23 can be formed by a (one-piece) injection-molded component. However, other solutions are also possible.

[0138] Preferably the actuating lever 21 is pivotably mounted on the dispensing device 2, in particular the housing 2A or the connecting part 20, by means of the bearing part 24.

[0139] The bearing part 24 preferably forms a pivot axis or swivel axis about which the actuating lever 21 can pivot or is pivoted when actuated.

[0140] Preferably, the dispensing device 2 or the connecting part 20 has a bearing 25 for the bearing part 24 that is associated with and / or complementary to the bearing part 24. The bearing 25 is designed, in particular, to preferably rotatably hold or support the bearing part 24 or the actuating lever 21. In particular, the bearing part 24 can be arranged or fastened in the bearing 25, preferably in a snap-fit ​​manner, and in particular, the bearing 25 holds the bearing part 24 in a positive-locking manner and / or at least partially surrounds it.

[0141] In principle, a pivotable mounting of the actuating lever 21 can also be achieved in a different way than described here.

[0142] In Fig. Figures 1 to 3 show the actuating lever 21 in a respective operating position. The operating position is preferably the position or relative arrangement of the actuating arm 22 and the lifting arm 23 to each other in which the actuating lever 22 is or can be actuated to dispense the fluid F. In particular, the term "operating position" refers to a relative arrangement of the actuating arm 22 and the lifting arm 23 to each other, but not to a pivot position of the actuating lever 21.

[0143] Preferably the lifting arm 23 and the actuating arm 22 are arranged transversely, and in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to each other - at least in the operating position.

[0144] According to an aspect of the present invention that can also be implemented independently, the actuating arm 22 is foldable, in particular from the lifting arm 23, and / or the actuating arm 22 is movable relative to the lifting arm 23, in particular foldable or pivotable. This functionality is particularly important in the application described in the Fig. The embodiments shown in 6 to 8 are realized.

[0145] The actuating arm 22 can preferably be secured against actuation and / or in a locking position by folding down, folding over or folding up, and / or at the dispensing head 14.

[0146] The actuating lever 21 or actuating arm 22 is preferably arranged in a locking position or foldable into a locking position, so that the actuating lever 21 is secured or lockable against actuation in the locking position.

[0147] In Fig. Figures 6 to 8 show the actuating lever 21 in the locked position or with the actuating arm 22 folded down. Various implementations are possible for locking the actuating lever 21 or the actuating arm 22. Fig. Figures 6 to 8 show two preferred embodiments which can also be combined with each other.

[0148] Fig. Figure 6 shows a (second) embodiment in which the actuating arm 22 can be positively locked to the dispensing head 14. Preferably, the dispensing head 14 has a locking mechanism 26 for this purpose. The locking mechanism 26 is preferably implemented or designed separately, i.e., as a component separate from the dispensing head 14.

[0149] The closure 26 preferably forms a locking part or locking element for the actuating arm 22 or actuating lever 21.

[0150] Preferably the closure 26 is connectable to the dispensing head 14 and / or separable or removable from the dispensing head 14.

[0151] Preferably the closure 26 is positively locked and / or snap-fit ​​to the dispensing head 14 or is arranged or can be arranged.

[0152] The closure 26 is preferably designed to close or cover the outlet channel 15 or the outlet opening 16 (fluid-tight) and / or to secure or hold the actuating lever 21 or actuating arm 22 in the locking position, in particular by positive locking. In the Fig. In the position of the closure 26 shown in Figure 6, the outlet channel 15 or the outlet opening 16 is closed and the actuating arm 22 is positively locked in the locking position or secured against actuation.

[0153] Preferably the closure 26 forms, at least in the Fig. 6 position shown, a stop for the actuating arm 22, against which the actuating arm 22 rests in the locking position and by which a movement of the actuating arm 22, in particular into the operating position, is blocked.

[0154] Preferably, the closure 26 is arranged or connected to the dispensing head 14 in such a way that the outlet channel 15 or the outlet opening 16 and / or the actuating arm 22 can be released or unlocked.

[0155] The release or unlocking of the actuating arm 22 is preferably effected by rotating the lock 26 into an unlocked position, in particular by at least substantially approximately 90° from the position shown in the diagram. Fig. 6 shown closure position of the closure 26.

[0156] The unlocked position of the lock 26 is in Fig. 7 shown.

[0157] The locking mechanism 26 is preferably elongated, so that by rotating it from the locking position to the unlocking position or by about 90° from the locking position the positive locking or blocking of the actuating arm 22 is released or the locking mechanism is pivoted away from the actuating arm 22.

[0158] Upon further rotation by at least substantially approximately 90° from the unlocked position or by at least substantially approximately 180° from the closed position, the outlet channel 15 or the outlet opening 16 is preferably released for fluid discharge. In this release position, the outlet opening 16 or the outlet channel 15 preferably opens into a discharge opening 28 of the closure 26, or the discharge opening 28 is fluidically connected to the outlet channel 15. In the release position, the discharge opening 28 preferably forms an extension or part of the outlet channel 15.

[0159] The dispensing opening 28 and / or outlet opening 16 can be designed as a nozzle or nozzle-like and / or be designed in such a way that a desired dispensing form of the fluid F is achieved or effected by the dispensing opening 28 and / or outlet opening 16 or its shape, for example as a spray or aerosol or foam.

[0160] The closure 26 is preferably arranged on or connectable to a connecting element 27 of the dispensing head 14, in particular by attaching or sliding it onto the connecting element 27. Preferably, the closure 26 is positively locked or snapped onto the connecting element 27, in particular movably or rotatably.

[0161] The connecting element 27 is preferably designed as a part projecting from the closure 26 or an end face 26A of the closure 26. Preferably, the connecting element 27 has an elongated, in particular cylindrical, section 27A arranged on the end face 26A. At the end facing away from the end face 26A, the connecting element 27A or the section 27A preferably has a head 27B, which is in particular wider than the section 27A or projects radially beyond the section 27A, so that the closure can be positively engaged or snapped onto or connected to the connecting element 27 or the head 27B.

[0162] The closure 26 is preferably rotatable about the connecting element 27, in particular such that the connecting element 27 has or forms an axis of rotation D for the closure 26. The axis of rotation D preferably runs transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis L.

[0163] Contrary to the representation in Fig. 6. It is also possible that the actuating arm 22 can be secured by or with the locking device 26. In this embodiment, which is not shown in the figures, the actuating arm 22 and the locking device 26 can have corresponding or complementary elements for creating a locking connection, for example, locking cams or the like. In particular, it can be provided that the locking connection between the actuating arm 22 and the locking device 26 – in contrast to the one in Fig. 6 illustrated embodiment - on the side facing away from the dispensing head 14, i.e. on the left side of the closure 26 in Fig. 6, is planned or is being manufactured.

[0164] In another variant, not shown in the figures, the actuating lever 21 or actuating arm 22 on the dispensing head 14 can be secured or arranged in a locking position without the additional or separately manufactured closure 26.

[0165] Preferably, in this variant, the dispensing head 14, particularly in the area of ​​the outlet opening 16 or at its end, has or forms a stop or shoulder 14C. The shoulder 14C can be, in particular, similar to or at least substantially like the one described in Fig. 6. Indicated shoulder 14C should be formed.

[0166] The free end of the actuating arm 22 is preferably analogous to the one in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the closure 26 can be secured by the shoulder 14C or positively locked or clamped behind the shoulder 14C. The length of the actuating arm 22 is preferably selected or adapted accordingly so that the free end can be positively locked by the shoulder 14C.

[0167] Preferably, the actuating arm 22 and / or the shoulder 14C are designed to be flexible or deformable in such a way that the actuating arm 22 can be moved past the shoulder 14C from the locking position with slight, increased effort, preferably wherein the shoulder 14C and / or the actuating arm 22 are slightly deformed and thus enable the movement or unlocking.

[0168] Fig. Figure 8 shows a third embodiment or a further variant for securing the actuating arm 22 to the dispensing head 14 and / or closing the outlet channel 15 or the outlet opening 16 by the actuating lever 21 or actuating arm 22.

[0169] To explain the in Fig. The following discussion will focus primarily on the differences between the third embodiment (shown in section 8) and the one described in section 8. Fig. 6 and Fig. The second embodiment shown in section 7 is discussed in more detail below. A repeated explanation of identical or similar features is omitted, as the previous explanations preferably also apply to the Fig. 8 shall apply unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0170] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in section 8, the dispensing head 14 preferably does not have an additional closure 26 or this can be dispensed with.

[0171] Preferably, the actuating lever 21 or actuating arm 22 or an end 22A thereof is designed directly for closing or sealing the outlet channel 15 or the outlet opening 16.

[0172] Preferably, the end 22A of the actuating arm 22 can be arranged or attached to the dispensing head 14, in particular by being slipped over or slid over the outlet opening 16. The end 22A of the actuating lever 21 or actuating arm 22 associated with the outlet opening 16 is preferably designed in a sleeve-like manner or has a sleeve for covering or closing the outlet opening 16 or the outlet channel 15.

[0173] Preferably, in the embodiment also made of Fig. 8 a positive locking and / or latching locking or fastening of the actuating lever 21 or actuating arm 22 in the locking position and / or on the dispensing head 14. For this purpose, in Fig. 8 elements not shown for creating a locking connection between the actuating arm 22 and the dispensing head 14 may be arranged, or the actuating arm 22 and the dispensing head 14 may have corresponding mutually associated or complementary elements, for example locking cams or the like.

[0174] The following explanations preferably refer to all embodiments shown in the figures.

[0175] The actuating arm 22 and the lifting arm 23 are preferably movable relative to each other, in particular pivotable. As explained above, the actuating arm 22 is in particular foldable away from the lifting arm 23.

[0176] The folding movement preferably places the actuating arm 22 or actuating lever 21 in a user position that is in the Fig. 1 to 5 is shown, and in a safety position which is in the Fig. The numbers 6 to 8 shown are positionable.

[0177] Preferably, the actuating arm 22 is connected to the lifting arm 23 by a solid body joint or film hinge 29.

[0178] The film hinge 29 is preferably made of the same material as the lifting arm 23 and / or the actuating arm 22, in particular plastic.

[0179] The film hinge 29 is preferably flexible and / or deformable, particularly due to a correspondingly low thickness or material thickness.

[0180] The actuating lever 21 is preferably positively locked and / or detent-type in the operating position. Preferably, the actuating arm 22 and the lifting arm 23 have a detent connection or corresponding and / or mutually corresponding detent elements 30 which engage positively or detent-type in the operating position and / or hold, secure, or fix the actuating arm 22 to the lifting arm 23 in the operating position.

[0181] Preferably, the locking connection or the locking elements 30 are designed such that when the actuating arm 22 moves from the locking position to the operating position, the locking connection is automatically established at the end of the movement, or the locking elements 30 are automatically connected to each other or lock into each other.

[0182] The locking connection or the locking elements 30 can be designed in such a way that, after an initial or one-time movement of the actuating arm 22 (from the locking position) into the operating position or after a one-time or one-time connection, they can no longer be separated from each other, or only with great effort and / or with damage to the actuating lever 21.

[0183] However, it may also be provided that the locking connection can be released or separated again, so that the actuating lever 21 can be locked again and / or the actuating arm 22 can be repeatedly moved from the locking position to the operating position and locked in the respective position or vice versa.

[0184] In another variant, not shown, the movement or folding down of the actuating arm 22 from the operating position to the locking position can be limited and / or further movement can be blocked after a certain movement path or folding or pivoting angle, particularly when the actuating arm 22 has reached the locking position. Preferably, movement of the actuating arm 22 beyond the locking position is blocked, particularly by a positive locking mechanism.

[0185] For example, movement of the actuating arm 22 beyond the locking position can be blocked by an end section or area of ​​the actuating arm 22 – in particular the upper section of the actuating arm 22 shown in the figures – coming into contact with the lifting arm 23 or its upper surface in the locking position or any other end position, thus blocking further movement or pivoting. For this purpose, the actuating arm 22 and / or the lifting arm 23 can also have appropriately designed projections, shoulders, stops, or other suitable sections, areas, or parts.

[0186] It may be provided that the actuating arm 22 or actuating lever 21 can (additionally) be secured against unintentional actuation or in the locking position by the actuating arm 22 (in the locking position) engaging with the lifting arm 23. Preferably, the actuating arm 22 and / or the lifting arm 23 have corresponding locking elements for this purpose. The locking connection thus formed is preferably releasable.

[0187] Individual aspects and features of the present invention, in particular the various embodiments, can be implemented and advantageous individually and in any combination. Reference symbol list: 1 donor 2 Delivery facility 2A enclosure 2B Housing part 3 containers 4 Pumping equipment 5 bellows 5A Entrance 5B Outlet 5C Interior 5D Mounting Section 6 side wall 7 Inlet valve 7A Valve element 7B Arm 8 exhaust valve 8A Sealing lip 8B Opposite surface 9 Base 10 floor elements 10A Ring section 11 Feed channel 11A Opening 12 Line 13 riser 14. Delivery header 14A Mounting part 14B breakthrough 14C Shoulder 15 Exit channel 16 Exit opening 17 Ventilation gap 18 Leadership 18A stop 19 Rejuvenation 20 Connecting part 21 operating levers 22 Actuating arm 22A End 23 Lifting arm 23A Element 23B Element 24 bearing part 25 Storage 26 Closure 27 Connecting element Section 27A 27B Head 28. Drop-off opening 29 film hinge 30 locking elements D axis of rotation F Fluid L axis

Claims

[1] Dispensing device (2) for dispensing a fluid (F), wherein the dispensing device (2) comprises a pumping device (4) and an actuating lever (21) for actuating the pumping device (4), wherein the actuating lever (21) comprises a manually actuating arm (22) and a lifting arm (23) coupled thereto for driving the pumping device (4), wherein the actuating arm (22) can be secured against unwanted actuation by folding down and / or on a dispensing head (14) of the dispensing device (2) in a securing position, characterized by , that the actuating arm (22) is movably connected to the lifting arm (23) by a film hinge (29) and / or that the actuating arm (22) can be fixed in a working position on the lifting arm (23). [2] Dispensing device (2) according to claim 1, characterized by , that an outlet opening (16) of the delivery device (2) can be closed in a locking position. [3] Dispensing device (2) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the actuating lever (21) is pivotably arranged or mounted on the dispensing device (2). [4] Dispensing device (2) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the actuating arm (22) can be fixed in the operating position on the lifting arm (23) by means of a locking connection or locking elements (30). [5] Dispensing device (2) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a closure (26) of the dispensing head (14) or of an outlet opening (16) of the dispensing device (2) is designed to secure the actuating lever (21) or actuating arm (22) against actuation or to hold it in the secure position, at least in a closed position. [6] Dispensing device (2) according to claim 5, characterized by, that the actuating lever (21) or actuating arm (22) can be secured positively and / or latchingly with the closure of the dispensing head (14) or the outlet opening (16). [7] Dispenser (1) for dispensing a fluid (F) comprising a dispensing device (2) and a container (3), wherein the fluid (F) can be conveyed from the container (3) by means of the dispensing device (2) and dispensed by means of the dispensing device (2), characterized by that the dispensing device (2) is designed according to one of the preceding claims.

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