Flexible, one-handed liquid dispenser for wetting the palm(s) of the hand.

Abstract

A flexible, one-handed liquid dispenser for wetting the palm of the hand, characterized in that, when force is applied (Fig. 6, point 4.1), in particular by hand pressure, the liquid dispenser creates a targeted opening for controlled liquid dispensing by generating a pre-tension together with at least one elastic lid (Fig. 1, 1 and / or 2), as well as a central elastic bridge (Fig. 2, 2.1 / 2.2) with a radial geometry, the level of which projects from the top of the container base (Fig. 3, 2.7) (Fig. 3, 2.8), thus enabling a tight closure of the container, and through the aforementioned force on the bridge and the resulting elastic deformation of the bridge against the pre-tension, an outlet opening (Fig. 6, 4.2) is created which channels the liquid from the container to the point of force application (palm of the hand).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention is applicable in the field of climbing or other sporting activities where the one-handed application of liquids to the palm(s) of the hand is advantageous. This applies to both private and commercial sectors. State of the art

[0002] To maintain or improve the appropriate friction between the palms of the hands and the climbing surface, climbers use magnesium carbonate and other substances (hereinafter referred to as chalk). These can vary depending on their quality and intended use.

[0003] They are applied to the palms of the hands, absorb liquid (sweat), and thus increase the friction between the palm or fingers and the surface. Two basic application methods represent the current state of the art. Climbing chalk:

[0004] Classic climbing chalk usually consists of pure magnesium carbonate in powder form.

[0005] Climbing chalk is either in powder form or contained in a semi-permeable fabric bag (chalk bag). The climber carries this bag and, when needed, can reach inside to coat their palm with a layer of powder.

[0006] Advantages: • Affordable and readily available. • Dries hands quickly. • Easy handling during the climbing process.

[0007] Disadvantages: • Not very long-lasting. Must be applied frequently. • Creates dust and thus reduces indoor air quality. Liquid chalk:

[0008] Liquid chalk is an ethanol-based solution containing magnesium carbonate.

[0009] When applied to the skin, the ethanol content evaporates within a short time, leaving a lasting film on the skin's surface.

[0010] Advantages: • Sustainable effect. • Dust-free.

[0011] Disadvantages: • Only available in containers (tubes) that require two hands to open. Therefore, practical use during climbing is not possible. • More expensive than powdered chalk. • May cause irritation in sensitive skin. • Dries more slowly than powdered chalk.

[0012] State of the art also includes devices for dispensing or dosing liquids from flexible or compressible containers.

[0013] The invention described in DE 103 35 604 A1 describes a closure cap for a dispensing container that is opened and closed via a sliding closure mechanism. In particular, a valve diaphragm that is effective in the open state should be mentioned.

[0014] From DE 88 16 709 U1 a container or dispenser system is further disclosed which is closed by means of elastic sealing lips and, when mechanical action is applied to parts of the elastic container body, creates an opening and releases liquid.

[0015] Both documents present solutions for the measured and targeted dispensing or dosing of liquids. Problem:

[0016] Standard bottles or tubes of chalk force the user to use both hands, thus interrupting the climbing process (for belaying). Therefore, climbers usually resort to liquid chalk before climbing and climbing chalk during the climb. Because it comes in a chalk bag attached to the back, climbing chalk allows for one-handed application to the palms without direct eye contact; however, this process is not very efficient and must be repeated frequently. This simultaneously increases airborne dust and interrupts the climbing process unnecessarily often.

[0017] DE 103 35 604 A1 requires a precise finger movement to open the mechanism, as well as a change in the position of the hand and the container to dispense the liquid in a controlled manner into the palms. The lid must then be pushed back into the closed position (one-handed). As mentioned above, the climber is either forced to perform these actions behind their back without being able to see what is happening, or to hold the liquid dispenser in one hand and bring it to the front of their body. These measures are considered unreasonable during a climbing operation and, due to the possibility of the container falling, also pose a danger to bystanders.

[0018] DE 88 16 709 U1 has permanently open air vents. This would cause the liquid in the container to dry out within a very short time, rendering the product unusable for the described application. An airtight seal of the container is a prerequisite for the described application.

[0019] In summary, a one-handed operating solution for the targeted application of the liquid without direct visual contact with the process is necessary to ensure an efficient and safe climbing procedure. Furthermore, the container must provide a virtually airtight seal to protect the liquid from drying out. These requirements are therefore not currently met by commercially available products / methods, nor by patents or utility models known to the prior art. Solution:

[0020] The aforementioned problems are addressed by the features listed in the patent claim ("One-hand operable, flexible liquid dispenser for wetting the palm of the hand / s...") or the aforementioned requirements are met. Benefits achieved:

[0021] The invention makes it possible to combine the efficiency of liquid chalk with the ease of use of dry climbing chalk. It allows for one-handed application of liquid chalk due to the tactile design of the pressure point (central ridge) for opening the container, and furthermore ensures a tight seal due to the tension between the liquid container and one or more lids. The invention, in conjunction with the described application, enables improved climbing performance and reduces indoor air pollution. Further embodiment of the invention:

[0022] The safety features allow the liquid to be contained and released only when the user applies pressure to the container or central ridge. This ridge has a geometrically designed, protruding cam that allows it to be located by touch even without visual contact. A pre-tensioned mechanism seals the outlet, preventing leakage or drying of the liquid. A flat design ensures an ergonomic fit in the hand and simultaneously reduces the risk of injury if the container is accidentally dropped (the flat shape reduces the fall speed). Example implementation: Fig. Figure 1 shows the top view of the entire assembly. This consists of two lids 1 & 3 (number may vary) and the base body 2 (hereinafter referred to as container). The lids seal the container. Fig. 2, The image shows the container in a partially open state. Lid 3 is shown separated from the container / open. In the example shown, lids 1 and 3 are identical in construction. However, they may have different shapes. The design of the seal is relevant. The lid and container together form a circumferential seal. The seal is closed all the way around, but has a cutout at the intended outlet for the liquid. Elements 2.4 and 3.1 form the circumferential seal. This seal is formed by simultaneous positive and / or frictional engagement. Element 2.4 represents the groove side of the seal. The counterpart, 3.2, represents the spring side (tongue-and-groove principle). The frictional engagement is achieved because the width of the spring (3.1) is a factor of 1.01 to 1.4 times the groove width (2.4). Point 2.3 marks the interior of container 2. This area receives the liquid. Fig. Figure 3, in conjunction with section A, shows that the container has a continuous cavity 2.6. This cavity can vary in dimensions and geometry, but it is always a continuous cavity. Figure 2.7 marks the top of the container base, on which the inside of the lids also rests. Figure 2.8 marks the higher bearing surface of the central container rib for the lids. This pre-tensions the components, thus creating a gap-free and liquid-tight connection. Seal of the container in the area of ​​the liquid outlet:

[0023] A key aspect for the correct functioning of the container is the seal in the area of ​​the intended liquid outlet. This is achieved through a preload between the container and the lid. Container 2 has a seal in the area ( Fig. 4, Fig. 2.5) a radius. The level of this radius exceeds the connection height of the covers ( Fig. 3, Fig. 2.8). Not the radius itself, but also the radius height is therefore responsible for the degree of preload. The height of the protruding area is between 0.1 mm and 10 mm, depending on the component size and the desired preload of the model. Fig. 5, Fig. Figures 1.1 & 2.5 show the effect of the preload on the underside of the lid. Leakage of fluid:

[0024] Another key component of the container's function is the controlled opening of the pre-tensioned seal when force is applied. If a force is applied ( Fig. 6, Fig. 4.1), e.g. handshake, on the cam located on the container ( Fig. 2, Fig. 2.1), then this counteracts the structural prestress. If the force exceeds ( Fig. 6, Fig. 4.1) the preload, the area opens ( Fig. 6, Fig. 4.2)

[0025] When the force decreases, the area closes ( Fig. 6, Fig. 4.1) to the same extent again. Reference symbol list: 1 lid on the left 1.1 Elastic stress of lid on the left through radius 2.5 2 containers 2.1 Cam 2.2 Central Bridge 2.3 Container bottom 2.4 Circumferential groove - sealing component 2.5 Radius at the central web 2.2 2.6 Container cavity 2.7 Container base - top 2.8 Central web - radius peak (section) 3 lids on the right 3.1 Circulating spring - sealing component 3.2 Elastic stress of lid on the right due to radius 2.5 4.1 Force acting on container 2 / cam 2.1 . 4.2 Forming outlet opening for liquid chalk QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 103 35 604 A1 [0013, 0017] DE 88 16 709 U1 [0014, 0018]

Claims

A flexible, one-handed liquid dispenser for wetting the palm of the hand, characterized in that, when force is applied (Fig. 6, point 4.1), in particular by hand pressure, the liquid dispenser creates a targeted opening for controlled liquid dispensing by generating a pre-tension together with at least one elastic lid (Fig. 1, Fig. 1 and / or 2), as well as a central elastic bridge (Fig. 2, Fig. 2.1 / 2.2) with a radial geometry, the level of which projects from the top of the container base (Fig. 3, Fig. 2.7) (Fig. 3, Fig. 2.8), thus enabling a tight closure of the container, and through the aforementioned force on the bridge and the resulting elastic deformation of the bridge against the pre-tension, an outlet opening (Fig. 6, Fig. 4.2) is created which channels the liquid from the container to the point of force application (palm of the hand).

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