Dispensing device for a fluid

Abstract

The invention relates to a dispensing device (1) for dispensing a fluid, comprising a head base part (2) with a dispensing opening (15), a liner (10) arranged within the head base part (2), a liner channel (9) arranged between the head base part (2) and the liner (10), and a valve element (13) which is movably arranged at least partially within the liner (10) and interacts with the dispensing opening (15). The valve element (13) can be moved relative to the liner (10) from a first position to a second position by means of a stroke, wherein in the second position of the valve element (13) a fluid path is formed between the liner channel (9) and the dispensing opening (15), thus enabling fluid dispensing. With a small number of components, fluid dispensing in the first position of the valve element (13) is prevented by the liner (10) sealing the liner channel (9) against the dispensing opening (15).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a dispensing device for dispensing a fluid. Such a dispensing device can comprise a head base with a dispensing opening, a liner arranged within the head base, a liner channel arranged between the head base and the liner, and a valve element which is movably arranged at least partially within the liner and interacts with the dispensing opening. The valve element can be moved from a first position to a second position by means of a stroke relative to the liner, wherein in the second position of the valve element a fluid path is formed between the liner channel and the dispensing opening.

[0002] EP 3 072 597 A1 describes such a dispensing device for delivering predetermined quantities of fluid. Further dispensing devices are known from FR 3 041 548 A1, US 5,842,616 A, and US 8,328,120 B2. In order to prevent the fluid to be dispensed from exiting the dispensing opening at high velocity in the dispensing device according to EP 3 072 597 A1 during a small stroke of the valve element, the valve element or its cylinder interacts with the dispensing opening so that, in a closed state, the dispensing opening is sealed by the valve element and even a small stroke does not release the dispensing opening. Only a sufficiently large stroke of the valve element opens the fluid path from a chamber arrangement to a nozzle chamber including the dispensing opening.

[0003] This structural design of the dispensing device allows it to be used as a dropper, for example, for eye drops. A dropper is characterized by a droplet-shaped fluid outlet. The structural design of the dispensing device also improves its suitability for use with medical fluids.

[0004] However, it has proven disadvantageous that the known dispensing device requires a large number of components. Furthermore, the known design of the dispensing device also necessitates a complex component design.

[0005] For example, the dispensing device requires an additional sealing element that seals a valve chamber against a nozzle chamber with minimal stroke and acts as a valve seat. Furthermore, the valve element must include a cylinder that interacts with the dispensing opening and seals it through positive locking. However, the use of a large number of components and their complex design increase manufacturing costs and make the dispensing device prone to failure.

[0006] Furthermore, the known design of the dispensing device can lead to incomplete fluid dispensing from the nozzle chamber, particularly at low pressures. This is primarily because a significant force is required to open the dispensing port, as a minimal stroke is insufficient. The spring travel and associated spring force involved in opening the port then result in a faster closure. Consequently, not only is a greater force required to open the port, but the dispensing device or valve element also closes it more quickly. This faster closure can leave residual fluid in the nozzle chamber. During extended periods of inactivity, this residual fluid can have a negative impact.

[0007] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing an alternative dispensing device with a simplified design. At the same time, the object of the invention is to provide a valve mechanism that has improved opening and closing properties.

[0008] This problem is essentially solved by a dispensing device according to claim 1, which is configured to dispense a fluid. According to the invention, in a dispensing device of the type mentioned above, in the first position of the valve element, the liner channel is sealed off from the dispensing opening by the liner. This means that no fluid can flow from the liner channel to the dispensing opening, since the fluid path through the liner is interrupted.

[0009] This design of the dispensing device offers the advantage that no additional sealing element is required to seal the liner channel against the dispensing opening, thus reducing the number of components and manufacturing costs.

[0010] The fluid that the dispensing device can deliver is preferably a medicinal or cosmetic active ingredient solution, for example, for use in the nose, mouth, or eyes of a user of the dispensing device. Furthermore, the delivery preferably occurs in droplet form; that is, the dispensing device is preferably a dropper. The head base of the dispensing device essentially forms the housing part of the device designed for dispensing the fluid and accordingly has a dispensing opening. The dispensing opening can be in the form of a dome. The head base can be provided with a cap, which must be removed from the head base before use of the dispensing device. A liner is arranged inside the head base, extending axially away from the dispensing opening, i.e., along the length of the dispensing device.The liner is a tubular, essentially cylindrical body with a wall and a cavity. Accordingly, the liner has an inner wall and an outer wall. Furthermore, the liner is formed in one piece. A liner channel is located between the head base and the liner arranged within the head base. This channel is used for fluid transport to the dispensing opening of the dispensing device. The liner channel is therefore preferably arranged between the outer wall of the liner and the inner wall of the head base. Preferably, the liner channel terminates in a region, for example, a chamber arrangement including a valve chamber, which is located, in particular, on a side of the valve element facing away from the dispensing opening. This means that, in the first position of the valve element, the region is not in fluid contact with the dispensing opening, and the region is located inside the liner.The liner channel thus enables the fluid to be transported from the outer wall of the liner to the interior of the liner. Furthermore, a valve element is arranged, at least partially, within the liner, and is positioned to be movable relative to the liner. The valve element is therefore displaceable, for example, in the axial direction relative to the liner. The valve element can be moved from a first position to a second position by a stroke. In the first position, the fluid path from the liner channel to the discharge opening is interrupted, meaning that no fluid can flow from the liner channel to the discharge opening. As soon as the valve element is moved from the first position to the second position, the fluid path between the liner channel and the discharge opening is opened, allowing fluid to exit the discharge opening.

[0011] The valve element, located within the liner, interacts with the liner. The liner forms a valve seat in which the valve element is movably arranged. In a first position, the valve element rests against the dispensing opening and closes it, preferably by friction. For this purpose, the valve element can have rounded edges or a radius surface that rests against and seals the dispensing opening. This surface is also called the sealing surface. In one embodiment, the valve element can additionally have a pin. The pin can have a cylindrical shape or another shape, for example, a conical shape, with the pin projecting into the dispensing opening in the first position of the valve element. However, the pin does not rest against the dispensing opening and therefore does not perform any sealing function. For example, a gap can be arranged between the pin and the dispensing opening.Furthermore, in the first position of the valve element, the dispensing port remains sealed by the sealing surface. However, in this first position, the pin can engage with the dispensing port, meaning it can penetrate it. Using a pin can reduce the dead volume in the outer area of ​​the dispensing device. Consequently, this can partially minimize dirt accumulation. Additionally, in a second (open) position of the valve element, the pin can improve the fluid's drainage behavior, for example, by reducing fluid accumulation on the dome. This facilitates the subsequent drying of residual fluid after the draining process. As soon as the valve element is moved to a second position, the fluid path between the liner channel and the dispensing port is opened. Even a slight movement of the valve element is sufficient to open the dispensing port.Interrupting the fluid path in the first position of the valve element can cause the fluid to be retained in this position until the valve element is moved, for example, by fluid pressure, and the dispensing orifice is released. This allows for a controlled, droplet-like dispensing of the fluid, possibly along the pin.

[0012] In one embodiment, the liner has at least a second sealing lip or sealing surface which bears against the valve element in the first position of the valve element. The liner may have a preload, at least in some areas, to press the sealing lip or sealing surface against the valve element. The sealing surface is defined as a section of the liner which, in the first position of the valve element, bears against the valve element in a flat, at least in some areas. Preferably, the sealing surface or sealing lip is located in a region of the liner with a reduced diameter. Consequently, due to the liner's contact with the valve element via the sealing lip or sealing surface, a fluid-tight seal is created between the liner and the valve element as long as the valve element is in the first position. The interruption of the fluid path is thus characterized by the fact that the liner, i.e.,For example, the second sealing lip or sealing surface, in the first position, partially contacts the valve element, thus blocking or sealing the fluid path. When the valve element moves from the first to the second position, the contact of the second sealing lip or sealing surface with the valve element ceases, at least to the extent that the fluid path is no longer blocked or sealed. This opens a passage between the valve chamber and the nozzle chamber, allowing the fluid to flow freely. The fluid from the liner channel can then pass through the liner and flow to the discharge port. The valve element may have a space, such as a groove, that forms part of this fluid path.As soon as the valve element is moved from the first position to the second position, this space within the valve element is released, allowing the fluid to pass through the valve element and flow from the liner channel to the discharge port. Alternatively, the valve element can simply be moved until the (second) sealing lip or sealing surface no longer contacts the valve element. This can be achieved by having the valve element have two sections of different diameters. Consequently, controlled and droplet-shaped fluid flow is possible.

[0013] In another embodiment, the liner has an opening that forms part of the fluid path. As long as the valve element is in the first position, the fluid cannot flow from the liner channel to the dispensing opening. The liner channel, which is located between the head base and the liner, guides the fluid along the dispensing device towards the dispensing opening.

[0014] The liner channel preferably terminates in a region of the valve element facing away from the dispensing port. According to the embodiment, the fluid entering the interior of the liner from its outer wall flows through an opening, such that the opening forms part of the fluid path. The fluid can thus, for example, flow from the liner channel into a chamber arrangement that is sealed off from the dispensing port as long as the valve element is in the first position. Alternatively, the liner could, for example, have a permeable area that allows fluid to pass from the outer wall of the liner into its interior. However, the opening, which can be in the form of a bore, a channel, or the like, allows for accelerated fluid transport between the liner channel and the dispensing port, provided the valve element opens the port.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the liner tapers conically, at least in certain areas, towards the dispensing opening. For example, the inner contour formed by the inner wall of the liner can taper conically in the area of ​​the valve seat. This means that the inner diameter of the liner is smaller in an area closer to the dispensing opening than in an area further away. When the valve element moves axially within the liner relative to it and performs a stroke, it moves from an area with a smaller inner diameter to an area with a larger inner diameter. Preferably, the outer contour of the head base also tapers conically towards the dispensing opening in the area of ​​the dispensing opening.The conical inlet of the liner ensures a reliable valve seat, particularly in the initial position of the valve element. Furthermore, the conical inlet of the head base creates a dispensing device with a reduced diameter at the dispensing opening. This allows the dispensing device to be positioned more easily in the mouth, nose, or near the eye without touching these areas.

[0016] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the valve element can have a first sealing lip which rests against the liner in both the first and second positions of the valve element. This first sealing lip therefore rests against the inner wall of the liner regardless of whether the dispensing device is open or closed, i.e., whether it is in the first or second position. The first sealing lip seals an area into which the fluid enters from the liner channel, for example, through an opening in a chamber arrangement, against a rear area that is further away from the dispensing opening and may include a spring chamber with a head spring. When the valve element moves from the first position to the second position in the longitudinal direction of the dispensing device, the first sealing lip can assume a guiding function.Furthermore, the first sealing lip can prevent the valve element from tilting when it leaves the valve seat formed by the liner's second sealing lip. Additionally, the first sealing lip can act as a kind of shield against which the fluid exerts pressure, thus displacing the valve element. If the dispensing device has a spring-loaded head, the force exerted on the valve element by the fluid pressure, directed away from the dispensing port, must be greater than the spring force pushing the valve element towards the dispensing port. The inclusion of a first sealing lip therefore improves the transition of the valve element from the first to the second position.

[0017] Furthermore, the liner can have a shoulder in the area of ​​the valve element. This shoulder can be designed in the form of a flange section. The shoulder is characterized essentially by an abrupt change in the diameter of the liner, in particular the inner diameter of the liner. That is, the liner essentially has two areas with different inner diameters, with the transition area between these areas forming the shoulder or flange section. Preferably, a second sealing lip is arranged in the area of ​​the liner with the smaller diameter. The first sealing lip of the valve element, on the other hand, is preferably located in the area of ​​the liner with the larger inner diameter. Preferably, in the first position, the valve element also rests against the inner wall of the liner in both the area with the smaller diameter and the area with the larger diameter.Preferably, the liner also has no step between the opening and its end facing away from the valve element. The presence of a step allows for a predetermined, abrupt release of the fluid path during a stroke movement of the valve element.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the dispensing device comprises a chamber arrangement and / or a nozzle chamber, the chambers forming part of the liquid path. The chamber arrangement defines a region which, as long as the valve element is in a first position, lies on the side of the valve element facing away from the dispensing opening. The liquid path between the chamber arrangement and the valve element is thus interrupted relative to the dispensing opening in the first position of the valve element. The chamber arrangement can form part of the liquid path. In contrast, the nozzle chamber defines a region which, as long as the valve element is in a first position, lies on the side of the valve element facing the dispensing opening. The dispensing opening is part of the nozzle chamber, and in the first position, the dispensing opening is closed by the valve element, preferably by a force-fit connection.If the dispensing device includes a chamber assembly and a nozzle chamber, both of which are part of the fluid path, this fluid path between the chamber assembly and the nozzle chamber is interrupted by the interaction of the liner and the valve element in the first position of the valve element. Once the valve element is moved to the second position, a fluid connection is established between the two chambers, i.e., between the chamber assembly and the nozzle chamber, so that the complete fluid path leads from the liner channel, through the chamber assembly, past the valve element, and through the nozzle chamber to the dispensing orifice. Providing these chambers can be advantageous in several respects. For example, it allows a predefined quantity of fluid to be dispensed. Simultaneously, the chambers can also ensure that a corresponding fluid pressure is built up, which moves the valve element.Furthermore, the flow rate of the fluid can be regulated via the volumes of the chambers.

[0019] In another embodiment, the liner channel and the chamber assembly are in fluid communication in the first position of the valve element. Consequently, the chamber assembly remains accessible to the fluid even in this first position, allowing the fluid to flow from the liner channel into the chamber assembly. Part of the chamber assembly can be formed by a valve chamber. The fluid in the valve chamber is in contact with the valve element. The liner channel opens into the chamber assembly. However, as long as the valve element is in the first position, the fluid path from the chamber assembly to the dispensing port is interrupted. This interruption causes the fluid to be retained in the chamber assembly. As a result, a certain amount of fluid accumulates in the chamber assembly, but cannot reach the dispensing port.The accumulation of fluid can generate pressure that acts on the valve element, causing it to move away from the discharge opening when the pressure is sufficiently high. The first sealing lip can form a kind of shield against this pressure.

[0020] In another embodiment, the liner channel and the nozzle chamber are not in fluid communication in the first position of the valve element. The fluid path to the nozzle chamber is interrupted in the first position of the valve element, so no fluid can enter the nozzle chamber. Accordingly, there is no fluid connection between the liner channel and the nozzle chamber, so the liner channel is sealed off from the dispensing port, meaning that no fluid can flow from the liner channel to or from the dispensing port. As soon as the valve element is moved from its first to the second position, the fluid passes through the fluid path towards the nozzle chamber and the dispensing port.Regardless of whether the dispensing device incorporates a chamber arrangement, the fluid can be slowed down upon entering the nozzle chamber by expansion within the chamber's volume. This allows the fluid to then exit the dispensing orifice in a controlled manner. For this purpose, the nozzle chamber can have a larger volume than, for example, the space at the valve element connecting the liner channel and the nozzle chamber. Depending on the application of the dispensing device, the relative volumes of the nozzle chamber, the space, and / or the chamber arrangement can also be chosen differently. For example, expansion of the fluid into the space at the valve element can also occur. A fluid accelerated in a passage with a smaller volume or cross-section is thus slowed down in the volume with a larger cross-section, such as the nozzle chamber, and can subsequently exit the dispensing orifice.The braking process allows for a droplet-shaped release of fluid. In this process, the fluid can escape along the dome in a droplet-like manner.

[0021] In an alternative embodiment, the dispensing port and the nozzle chamber and / or the chamber arrangement and the liner channel are in fluid communication in the second position of the valve element. This means that, depending on whether the dispensing device has both a nozzle chamber and a chamber arrangement, or only a nozzle arrangement or only a chamber arrangement, the fluid flows from the liner channel through the corresponding chambers and out of the dispensing port in the second position of the valve element. Consequently, the fluid path is no longer sealed in the second position of the valve element. The complete opening of the fluid path, including the chambers, offers at least the advantages already mentioned.

[0022] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the liner projects at least partially into the nozzle chamber. The nozzle chamber, which is formed in the area of ​​the dispensing opening by a portion of the head base, is consequently reduced by the volume of the liner portion that projects into the nozzle chamber. This allows the one-piece liner to bear against the head base and guarantee a reliable valve seat.

[0023] In another embodiment, the liner is arranged to be immovable relative to the head base. Accordingly, movement of the valve element does not cause any movement of the liner relative to the head base. This rigid arrangement simplifies the design, since essentially only the movement of one component, namely the movement of the valve element, needs to be controlled.

[0024] In another embodiment, the valve element can seal the dispensing port by friction. A spring can be used for this purpose, for example. The spring exerts a force on the valve element, pressing it against the dispensing port in its initial position, i.e., the first position, thus closing it. Consequently, the sealing surface of the valve element is pressed against the dispensing port. However, this does not preclude, for example, a pin on the valve element that does not perform a sealing function from protruding into the dispensing port. As soon as a fluid accumulates in the valve chamber, the fluid, at sufficient pressure, can move the valve element against the spring force of the spring. Therefore, the magnitude of the spring force determines the fluid pressure at which the valve element moves and thus opens or releases the dispensing port.The frictional connection also ensures that the discharge port opens as soon as a sufficiently large opposing force is applied, i.e., a force that counteracts the frictional connection. This results in the discharge port opening immediately as soon as the valve element is moved. As an alternative to a head spring, the frictional connection could also be achieved using other spring elements or fluid pressure.

[0025] Furthermore, a plug can be arranged at least partially inside the liner at an end opposite the valve element. The plug is thus partially located within the tubular liner. This prevents fluid from entering the liner at its end opposite the dispensing opening. Simultaneously, the plug can also be used to direct a fluid, for example from a fluid channel, into the liner channel. If the dispensing device has, for example, a pump chamber, the plug prevents the fluid from entering the interior of the liner without first passing through the liner channel. Consequently, the plug ensures that unwanted fluid flows do not occur. At the same time, the plug stabilizes the dispensing device.

[0026] In an alternative embodiment, the dispensing device additionally features a spring head located in a spring chamber within the liner, which presses the valve element towards the dispensing opening. The spring head can be supported on one side by the plug, a projection, or the like, and is compressed when the valve element moves from its first to its second position. The use of a plug prevents unwanted fluid ingress into the spring chamber. Thus, the plug prevents undesirable influences, such as corrosion, on the spring head. Furthermore, the force transmission can be regulated via the spring head.

[0027] Furthermore, the dispensing device can have a snap-on fitting, with the head base being arranged on the snap-on. The snap-on can be fixed relative to the head base. Preferably, an intermediate spring is located between the snap-on and the head base. This intermediate spring pushes the snap-on and the head base apart when the valve element is in the first position. As soon as the snap-on and the head base are moved relative to each other against the spring force of the intermediate spring, this can result in a pumping action that conveys a fluid through a fluid channel towards the liner channel. Alternatively, the dispensing device can have a housing spring that can be compressed by a relative movement of the snap-on and the head base. Accordingly, the intermediate spring or the housing spring can then help to ensure that the dispensing device is automatically returned to its first position.Furthermore, pumping can build up a fluid pressure that moves the valve element from the first position to the second position.

[0028] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the drawing.

[0029] They show schematically: Fig. 1a a sectional view of an embodiment of a dispensing device according to the invention in a first (closed) position; Fig. 1b a sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a dispensing device according to the invention with an intermediate spring and a second sealing lip in a first (closed) position; Fig. 2a a detailed view of a section X from Fig. 1a ; Fig. 2 legged detail view of a section Y from Fig. 1b ; Fig. 3 a sectional view of a dispensing device according to Fig. 1a in a second (open) position; Fig. 4 a detail view of a section Z from Fig. 3 ; and Fig. 5 a detailed sectional view of a further embodiment of a dispensing device with a pin in a first (closed) position.

[0030] Fig. 1a Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a dispensing device 1 for dispensing a fluid. The dispensing device 1 has a head base 2 which is arranged on a snap-on 3. The head base 2 is provided with a removable cap 4, which can be removed from the dispensing device 1 during use (see also Figure 1). Fig. 3 and 4 A cone 5 extends from the head base part 2 in an axial direction through the snap-on 3 into a housing 6. The cone 5 interacts with a housing spring 7 in the housing 6. The cone 5 has a fluid channel 8. The fluid channel 8 extends axially towards the head base part 2.

[0031] Alternatively to the one in Fig. 1a In the illustrated embodiment with a housing spring 7, an intermediate spring 27 can also be arranged between the snap-on 3 and the head base part 2, as shown in Fig. 1b as shown. In the first position, the intermediate spring 27 then pushes the snap-on 3 and the head base part 2 apart.

[0032] The fluid channel 8 continues in the head base part 2 as a liner channel 9. This liner channel 9 is arranged between the head base part 2 and a liner 10. The liner 10 is formed in one piece. Furthermore, the liner 10 has an opening 11 through which the liner channel 9 opens into a chamber arrangement 12.

[0033] Furthermore, the dispensing device 1 has a valve element 13 which is movably mounted in the liner 10. In the first position of the valve element 13 shown here, the valve element 13 is pressed by a head spring 14 against a dispensing opening 15, which is designed in the form of a dome 16. The dispensing opening 15 is thus closed by the valve element 13.

[0034] The valve element 13 has a first sealing lip 17 which rests against an inner wall 18 of the liner 10. At one end of the valve element 13 opposite the first sealing lip 17, the valve element 13 has a sealing surface 19 with rounded edges. In the first position of the valve element 13, the sealing surface 19 presses against the discharge opening 15 and seals it.

[0035] The first sealing lip 17 spatially separates one area of ​​the chamber arrangement 12, and in particular a valve chamber, from another area. This other area, in which the head spring 14 is located, is called the spring chamber 20. On the end face opposite the valve element 13, the liner 10 has a plug 21, which is inserted into the liner 10 until it reaches a stop. The plug 21 forms a contact surface for the head spring 14 and simultaneously the transition between the fluid channel 8 and the liner channel 9.

[0036] The liner 10 also has a shoulder 22, which reduces the inner diameter D1 of the liner 10 in the area closer to the discharge opening 15 compared to a rearward area. For clarity, the inner diameter D1 is only shown in the Fig. 2a , 2b and 4 marked.

[0037] In the embodiment shown here, the liner 10 tapers conically independently of the shoulder 22, so that, for example, the inner diameter D 1 of the liner 10 in the area of ​​the first sealing lip 17 is smaller than in the area of ​​the plug 21. The same applies to the front area of ​​the head base part 2, whereby the outer contour 23 of the head base part 2 also tapers conically.

[0038] In the front area with reduced inner diameter D 1, the liner 10 of the embodiment according to Fig. 1a Furthermore, a sealing surface 28 is provided, which rests against the valve element and seals the chamber arrangement 12 against a nozzle chamber 25. The sealing surface 28 defines a surface section of the liner 10 which, in the first position of the valve element 13, rests at least partially against the valve element 13.

[0039] As an alternative to the sealing surface 28, the liner 10 has according to Fig. 1b a second sealing lip 24, which rests against the valve element 13 and seals the chamber arrangement 12 against the nozzle chamber 25. The sealing surface 28 is located in the front area of ​​the liner 10 with a reduced inner diameter D 1. The embodiments of the Fig. 1a and 1b They therefore differ only in the characteristics of the housing spring 7 or the intermediate spring 27 and the second sealing lip 24 or the sealing surface 28.

[0040] The nozzle chamber 25 includes the discharge opening 15. Furthermore, the second sealing lip 24, or the sealing surface 28, forms a valve seat in the first position of the valve element. Consequently, in the first position of the valve element 13, the nozzle chamber 25 is sealed against the chamber arrangement 12 and thus against the liner channel 9.

[0041] The valve element 13 also has a chamber 26, which is located in the Fig. 1a and 1bor embodiments shown in 2a and 2b are arranged within the nozzle chamber 25.

[0042] In the Fig. 2a and 2b These are detailed views of the front area of ​​the dispensing device 1 of the Fig. 1a or 1b, i.e., section X or section Y. In the Fig. 2a and 2b The inner diameter D 1 of the liner 10 is also marked.

[0043] In Fig. 3 is essentially the embodiment according to Fig. 1b or 2b in a second, open position of the valve element 13, wherein the embodiment in Fig. 3 It has no intermediate spring 27 but does have a housing spring 7. Fig. 4 shows a detailed view of section Z of the Fig. 3 Furthermore, in the Fig. 3 and 4 A changed position of the valve element 13, i.e., the second position in which the fluid path is open, is shown.

[0044] In the Fig. 3 In the valve position shown, the valve element 13 is pushed back into the liner 10, so that the chamber 25 opens the fluid path from the liner channel 9, through the opening 11, via the chamber arrangement 12, the chamber 26, the nozzle chamber 25, and the dispensing opening 15. In this position, the valve element 13 is guided in the liner 10 only by the first sealing lip 17. The head spring 14 is compressed accordingly, and the spring chamber 20 is reduced in size relative to the chamber arrangement 12. The second sealing lip 24 and the chamber 26 overlap.

[0045] Fig. 4 represents a corresponding detailed view of the front area of ​​the dispensing device 1 of the Fig. 3 , i.e., of section Z. The fluid path is indicated here with arrows.

[0046] In all figures and embodiments, the identical features were provided with the identical reference numerals. Fig. 1a or 1b represents a state of the dispensing device 1 in which the valve element 13 is in a closed state, i.e., in a first position. Fig. 3 In contrast, the same dispensing device 1 is shown in which the valve element 13 is arranged in an open state, i.e., in a second position. Fig. 5 Figure 1 also shows an alternative embodiment of the valve element 13, in which an additional pin 29 is arranged on the closing surface 19.

[0047] Pin 29 has in the Fig. 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the valve element has a cylindrical shape. The pin 29 does not rest against the dispensing opening 15 and consequently does not perform a sealing function. Therefore, in the first position of the valve element 13, the dispensing opening 15 remains sealed by the sealing surface 19.

[0048] The pin 29, which engages in the dispensing opening 15 of the dispensing device 1, has no sealing function, as indicated by a small gap. However, the pin 29 reduces the dead volume in the outer area of ​​the dispensing device. Consequently, dirt accumulation can be partially minimized. Furthermore, in a second (open) position of the valve element 13, the pin 29 can improve the fluid's drainage behavior, for example, by reducing the amount of fluid that accumulates on the dome 16. This facilitates the subsequent drying of fluid residues after the drainage process.

[0049] To dispense the fluid, the user moves the head base 2 axially towards the snap-on 3 after removing the cap 4 from the dispensing device 1. This moves the cone 5 inside the housing 6 against the spring force of the housing spring 7 or the intermediate spring 27. This reduces the volume in a pump chamber of the housing 6. The pump chamber is formed by a space surrounding the housing spring 7. If no housing spring 7 is present, the pump chamber is still formed by the same space as if the housing spring 7 were present. The amount of fluid dispensed is determined by the stroke of the cone 5 within the pump chamber. This enables the metering of a predetermined amount of fluid. The resulting overpressure displaces the fluid from the pump chamber into the fluid channel 8. The fluid is transported axially along the fluid channel 8.The fluid transport continues along the liner 10 through the liner channel 9. At an axial end of the liner channel 9, the fluid finally passes through an opening 11 and enters a chamber arrangement 12.

[0050] In the embodiment shown here, a certain amount of fluid accumulates in the chamber arrangement 12. The more fluid accumulates in the chamber arrangement 12, the greater the pressure of the fluid on the valve element 13. The chamber arrangement 12 is sealed against the spring chamber 20, in which the head spring 14 is located, by means of the first sealing lip 17. Furthermore, in the first position of the valve element 13, the chamber arrangement 12 is sealed by means of the second sealing lip 24 ( Fig. 1b and 2b ) or by means of the sealing surface 28 ( Fig. 1a and 2a) sealed against the nozzle chamber 25. The fluid collecting in the chamber arrangement 12 thus displaces the valve element 13 against the spring force of the head spring 14.

[0051] However, as soon as the fluid pressure decreases and the spring force becomes greater than the fluid pressure, the valve element 13 moves back to its first position and closes the discharge opening 15 with the sealing surface 19. This force-fit is therefore effected by the head spring 14, whereby even a slight movement of the valve element 13 away from the discharge opening 15 is sufficient to open the discharge opening 15. However, the opening of the discharge opening 15 does not yet mean that the fluid path is released. As long as the second sealing lip 24 is still in contact with the valve element 13, the fluid path is interrupted. Only when the chamber 26, which can be designed as a groove, brings the chamber arrangement 12 and the nozzle chamber 25 into fluid contact with each other, can the fluid from the liner channel 9 flow out of the discharge opening 15. The stroke of the valve element 13 thus continues until the second sealing lip 24 reaches and releases the chamber 26.Therefore, the second sealing lip 24 and the space 26 must overlap in order for the fluid path to be released. Up to this point, the second sealing lip 24 seals against the valve element 13. Consequently, the fluid pressure must be greater than the spring force of the head spring 14 to displace the valve element 13 and release the fluid path.

[0052] As soon as chamber 26 and the second sealing lip 24 interact in such a way that the fluid path is opened, the fluid in chamber arrangement 13 can enter chamber 25 and flow from there into nozzle chamber 25. The volume of chamber arrangement 12 is larger than the volume of chamber 26, causing the fluid to accelerate upon entering chamber 26. This acceleration is undesirable if a controlled, droplet-shaped dispensing of the fluid is desired. For this reason, nozzle chamber 25 preferably has a larger volume or cross-section than chamber 26. Furthermore, nozzle chamber 25 is arranged in the direction of fluid flow towards chamber 26. The fluid, accelerated in chamber 26, can thus expand in nozzle chamber 25. This decelerates the fluid. Nozzle chamber 25 then has a dispensing opening 15. The fluid can exit from dispensing opening 15 along the dome 16 in a droplet-like manner.

[0053] The embodiment according to the invention thus provides an improved dispensing device 1 with a reduced number of components. At the same time, the chosen design according to the invention enables earlier opening of the liquid path and a consequently improved opening characteristic of the dispensing device 1. If the dispensing device 1 has a head spring 14, the spring travel of the head spring 14 required for releasing the liquid path can also be shortened compared to the prior art, thus further improving the closing characteristic of the dispensing device 1. Reference symbol list

[0054] 1 Dispensing device 2 Head base part 3 Snap-on 4 Closure cap 5 Cone 6 Housing 7 Housing spring 8 Fluid channel 9 Liner channel 10 Liner 11 Through hole 12 Chamber arrangement 13 Valve element 14 Head spring 15 Dispensing orifice 16 Dome 17 First sealing lip 18 Inner wall (of the liner) 19 Sealing surface 20 Spring chamber (of the head spring) 21 Plug 22 Shoulder 23 Outer contour (of the head base part) 24 Second sealing lip 25 Nozzle chamber 26 Chamber 27 Intermediate spring 28 Sealing surface 29 Pin D 1 Inner diameter

Claims

1. A dispensing device (1) for dispensing a fluid, comprising: a head base part (2) having a dispensing opening (15); a liner (10) arranged inside the head base part (2); a liner channel (9) which is arranged between the head base part (2) and the liner (10); and a valve element (13) which is arranged to be movable at least partially within the liner (10) and interacts with the dispensing opening (15), wherein the valve element (13) is movable, via a stroke relative to the liner (10), from a first position into a second position, and wherein, in the second position of the valve element (13), a fluid path is formed between the liner channel (9) and the dispensing opening (15), characterized in that, in the first position of the valve element (13), the liner channel (9) is sealed against the dispensing opening (15) by the liner (10), so that, in the first position, the fluid path from the liner channel (9) to the dispensing opening (15) is interrupted, and wherein the valve element (13) thereby interacts with the liner (10).

2. The dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the liner (10) comprises at least one second sealing lip (24) or a sealing surface (28), which, in the first position of the valve element (13), bears against the valve element (13).

3. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liner (10) comprises an aperture (11) which forms part of the fluid path.

4. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve element (13) comprises a first sealing lip (17), which bears against the liner (10) in the first position and in the second position of the valve element (13).

5. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liner (10) comprises a step (22) in the region of the valve element (13).

6. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispensing device (1) comprises a chamber arrangement (12) and / or a nozzle chamber (25), wherein the chambers (12; 25) form part of the fluid path.

7. The dispensing device according to claim 6, characterized in that the liner channel (9) and the chamber arrangement (12) are in fluid communication in the first position of the valve element (13).

8. The dispensing device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the liner channel (9) and the nozzle chamber (25) are not in fluid communication in the first position of the valve element (13).

9. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the dispensing opening (15) and the nozzle chamber (25) and / or the chamber arrangement (12) and the liner channel (9) are in fluid communication in the second position of the valve element (13).

10. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the liner (10) extends partially into the nozzle chamber (25).

11. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liner (10) is immovably arranged relative to the head base part (2).

12. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve element (13) seals the dispensing opening (15) by a force fit.

13. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, on an end side of the liner opposite the valve element (13), a plug (21) is arranged at least partially within the liner (10).

14. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispensing device (1) comprises a head spring (14) which is arranged in a spring space (20) inside the liner (10), and wherein the head spring (14) pushes the valve element (13) in the direction of the dispensing opening (15).

15. The dispensing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispensing device comprises a snap-on (3), wherein the head base part (2) is arranged on the snap-on (3), and wherein, preferably, an intermediate spring (27) is arranged between the snap-on (3) and the head base part (2), or the dispensing device comprises a housing spring (7).

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