Source bottle and refillable dispenser assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly comprising a source bottle (S) and a refillable dispenser (N1), the source bottle (S) comprising a body (S1) and a threaded neck (S2) formed of one piece, the refillable dispenser (N1) comprising a dispensing head (T) and a filling and venting system (1), the refillable dispenser (N1) comprising a reservoir (R), characterised in that the refillable dispenser (N1) has a threaded sleeve (111) that can be screwed onto the threaded neck (S2), thereby enabling the filling and venting system (1) to be connected to the body (S1) so that the fluid product in the source bottle (S) can gravitationally flow from the source bottle (S) into the reservoir (R) through the filling and venting system (1) while the air from the reservoir (R) can simultaneously flow from the reservoir (R) into the source bottle (S) through the filling and venting system (1).

Description

[0001] Refillable source bottle and dispenser set

[0002] The present invention relates to a dispensing assembly comprising a source bottle and a refillable dispenser, for the purpose of refilling the dispenser with a refillable fluid product using the source bottle. The invention also relates to a filling method implementing the dispensing assembly of the invention. The preferred field of application of the present invention is that of perfumery, cosmetics or pharmacy. This type of refillable dispenser is often referred to as a "nomadic" dispenser. It generally has a low-capacity reservoir of around 10 ml at most and is equipped with a pump that can be activated by pressing a push button. It also includes a filling valve at its lower end, opposite the push button.

[0003] In the prior art, for example, document EP2791031A1 is known, which describes a refillable dispenser equipped with a filling valve actuated by means of the actuating rod of a pump mounted on a source bottle. The refillable dispenser also incorporates a vent valve which evacuates air from the reservoir of the refillable dispenser to the outside. The disadvantage is that the fluid product at the end of filling is also evacuated through the vent valve, which contaminates the refillable dispenser and the source bottle. This is not acceptable.

[0004] Document EP2500277A1 is also known, which describes a dispensing assembly, the source bottle of which is equipped with a cross-flow filling and venting system. The refillable dispenser does not include a filling valve: its dispenser head must first be removed in order to screw the filling and venting system onto its threaded neck. At the end of the filling operation, the dispensing head must be screwed back onto the reservoir of the refillable dispenser. In total, two unscrewings and two screwings must be carried out. This is tedious and causes loss of fluid product. Document EP2719466 is also known, which describes a dispensing assembly, the refillable dispenser of which is equipped with a filling and venting system that is mounted on a source bottle by means of a specific bayonet connection.Specifically, a sleeve is permanently mounted on the unthreaded neck of the source bottle. In addition, the filling and venting system includes a valve that opens by gravity and is held in the closed position by a magnetic attraction generated by a magnet mounted in a cap covering the filling and venting system. Thus, as soon as the cap is removed, the refillable dispenser may leak if tilted or inverted. This is not acceptable.

[0005] The present invention aims to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art by defining a dispensing assembly whose refillable dispenser can easily be mounted on a standard source bottle. Another aim is that the filling is conditioned by the controlled actuation of a valve.

[0006] To do this, the present invention proposes an assembly comprising a source bottle and a refillable dispenser, the source bottle, advantageously made of glass, comprising a body containing a fluid product and a threaded neck made in one piece with the body, the refillable dispenser defining a longitudinal axis X and comprising at an upper end a dispensing head provided with a pusher and at a lower end a filling and venting system, the refillable dispenser comprising a reservoir in communication with both the dispensing head and the filling and venting system, characterized in that the refillable dispenser incorporates a threaded sleeve capable of being screwed onto the threaded neck of the source bottle, the filling and venting system then being connected to the body,such that the fluid product from the source bottle can flow by gravity from the source bottle into the reservoir through the filling and venting system, and such that air from the reservoir can flow simultaneously from the reservoir into the source bottle through the filling and venting system. The threaded sleeve is irremovably connected to the refillable dispenser, such that it is inseparable therefrom. Advantageously, the threaded sleeve is an integral and inseparable part of the filling and venting system, which is irremovably mounted on the reservoir.,

[0007] The spirit of the invention is to integrate all the functionalities necessary for flow crossing and connection into the refillable dispenser, so that it can be screwed onto a standard bottle, particularly made of glass, which can be made in a single piece with a threaded neck. The source bottle does not integrate any particular feature intended to cooperate with the filling and venting system of the refillable dispenser, which only cooperates with the standard threaded neck of the source bottle.

[0008] According to another characteristic of the invention, the reservoir may comprise a glass tube defining two openings, the filling and venting system being mounted irremovably on one opening of the glass tube, while the dispensing head is mounted irremovably on the other opening of the glass tube.

[0009] Initially, the source bottle may be fitted with a dispensing head removably screwed onto the threaded neck, to be replaced by the refillable dispenser.

[0010] According to another particularly interesting aspect of the invention, the filling and venting system may comprise a controllable valve, which is manually actuated, by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis X induced by traction or rotation, between a closed state and an open state. This means that it is a dedicated or induced manipulation by the user that will switch the valve between its closed and open states. In document EP2719466, it is gravity that performs this switching.

[0011] Advantageously, the controllable valve comprises a valve seat and a valve member, the valve seat being integral in movement with the threaded sleeve.

[0012] According to another aspect, the filling and venting system may comprise a fixed part mounted on the tank and a movable part capable of moving axially relative to the fixed part over a determined axial travel, generating the opening, respectively the closing, of the controllable valve.

[0013] According to a first embodiment, the threaded sleeve may be formed by the movable part, the valve member being a free member (a ball for example) which is pressed against the valve seat by the fixed part in the closed state and which is free to detach from the valve seat in the open position. Advantageously, the movable part forms a flow crossover duct, one end edge of which forms the valve seat. The threaded sleeve and the flow crossover duct may be made in two separate parts or in a single piece.

[0014] Alternatively, the free member can be replaced by a closure member integral with the fixed part and which cooperates with the valve seat formed by the moving part.

[0015] According to a second embodiment, the threaded sleeve can be formed by the fixed part, the movable valve member being formed by the movable part and is pressed against the valve seat by a return spring in the closed state and is detached from the valve seat against the force exerted by the return spring in the open position, by axial support of the movable part on the threaded neck, when screwing the threaded sleeve onto the threaded neck. Advantageously, the movable part forms a flow crossover duct, on which the valve member is fixedly mounted.

[0016] According to a third embodiment, the fixed part and the movable part are rotatable relative to each other, the fixed part and the movable part together defining a cam system capable of generating a relative axial movement along the longitudinal axis of the fixed part relative to the movable part by the relative rotation of the fixed part relative to the movable part. This type of cam system makes it possible to transform a rotation, generally exerted by a user on a rotary actuating member, into a displacement or axial movement of another member, in order to switch between a passive state and an active state.

[0017] Advantageously, the cam system comprises an inclined helical ramp formed by one of the fixed part and the movable part and a cam formed by the other of the fixed part and the movable part, the cam sliding along the inclined helical ramp upon relative rotation of the fixed part with respect to the movable part. The term "ramp" may be replaced by thread, thread, slope, edge, ridge, rib, groove, etc. The term "cam" may be replaced by profile, lug, tab, slide, etc.

[0018] According to another aspect of this third embodiment, a spring can act between the fixed part and the movable part so as to urge the fixed part towards the movable valve member to press it onto its valve seat, the cam system, in one direction of rotation, moving the fixed part away from the movable valve member so that it can detach from its valve seat, corresponding to the open state of the controllable valve, and in the other direction of rotation, pushing the movable valve member onto its valve seat, corresponding to the closed state of the controllable valve. Thus, the cam system of the invention allows the controllable valve to open against the force exerted by the spring and the controllable valve to close assisted by a spring, which urges the fixed part against the movable valve member to press it onto its valve seat.

[0019] According to another characteristic of this third embodiment, the movable part, already forming the threaded sleeve and the valve seat, also forms a sliding barrel, the fixed part forming a lip conduit engaged in sealed sliding in the sliding barrel, the lip conduit advantageously forming a thrust pin intended to come into contact with the movable valve member to push it onto its valve seat. The lip conduit is located downstream of the controllable valve and connects the reservoir of the refillable dispenser to the controllable valve. By rotation of the fixed part relative to the movable part, or vice versa, the cam system axially moves the fixed part relative to the movable part, which results in sliding of the lip conduit of the fixed part inside the sliding barrel of the movable part.

[0020] Advantageously, the movable part can also form an inlet pipe upstream of the valve seat inside the threaded sleeve, the inlet pipe forming an axial opening and a lateral opening, the lateral opening being advantageously located close to the valve seat. The fluid product from the source bottle will travel from top to bottom through the lateral opening, while the air from the refillable dispenser will travel from bottom to top through the axial opening.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the threaded sleeve and the valve seat are formed by the movable part, the valve member is formed by the fixed part, a spring acting between the fixed part and the movable part so as to urge the valve member towards the valve seat, the fixed part and the movable part being movable against the spring by traction along the longitudinal axis to detach the movable member from the valve seat and thus bring the controllable valve into the open position, the spring automatically returning the controllable valve to the closed position, as soon as the traction is released. This embodiment can be implemented without a threaded sleeve. Once the refillable dispenser is connected to the source bottle, the user pulls on the refillable dispenser to move it away from the source bottle. He then maintains the traction until the desired filling level is reached.When the pull is released, the controllable valve closes automatically under the return action of the spring.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the threaded sleeve and the valve seat are formed by the movable part, the valve member is formed by the fixed part, a spring acting between the fixed part and the movable part so as to urge the valve member towards the valve seat, the fixed part and the movable part together defining a cam system capable of generating a relative axial movement along the longitudinal axis of the fixed part relative to the movable part by the relative rotation of the fixed part relative to the movable part, the fixed part and the movable part being movable against the spring by an opening torque to detach the movable member from the valve seat and thus bring the controllable valve into the open position, the spring automatically returning the controllable valve to the closed position, as soon as the opening torque is released. This embodiment can be implemented without a threaded sleeve.Once the refillable dispenser is connected to the source bottle, the user rotates the refillable dispenser while holding the source bottle. The user then maintains the torque until the desired fill level is reached. When the torque is released, the controllable valve automatically closes under the spring return action.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the threaded sleeve and the valve seat are formed by the fixed part, the valve member is formed by the movable part, a spring acting between the fixed part and the movable part so as to urge the valve member towards the valve seat, the fixed part and the movable part being movable against the spring by screwing the threaded sleeve onto the threaded neck of the source bottle to detach the movable member from the valve seat and thus bring the controllable valve into the open position, the movable part advantageously integrating a ball valve comprising a ball seat and a ball which freely moves by gravity, the ball resting on its ball seat, when the refillable dispenser is in the upright position. This embodiment can be implemented without a threaded sleeve. In this embodiment, the main valve is dissociated from the temporary valve (free ball).

[0024] The invention also defines a method for filling a refillable dispenser using a source bottle, the source bottle, advantageously made of glass, comprising a body containing a fluid product and a threaded neck made in one piece with the body, the source bottle being provided with a dispensing head removably screwed onto the threaded neck, the refillable dispenser defining a longitudinal axis X and comprising at an upper end a dispensing head provided with a pusher and at a lower end a filling and venting system, the refillable dispenser comprising a reservoir in communication with both the dispensing head and the filling and venting system, the refillable dispenser incorporating a threaded sleeve capable of being screwed onto the threaded neck of the source bottle, the filling method comprising the following successive steps: a- unscrewing the dispensing head from the threaded neck,b- screw the refillable dispenser onto the threaded neck, c- turn the assembly thus formed upside down to place the source bottle above the refillable dispenser, d- let the fluid product from the source bottle flow by gravity into the reservoir through the filling and venting system, and let the air from the reservoir flow simultaneously from the reservoir into the source bottle through the filling and venting system, e- turn the assembly thus formed upside down to place the refillable dispenser again above the source bottle, f- unscrew the refillable dispenser from the threaded neck, and g- optionally screw the dispensing head back onto the threaded neck.,

[0025] According to one embodiment, the filling and venting system comprises a controllable valve, which is manually actuated by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis X between a closed state and an open state, the method comprising an additional step between steps c- and d- consisting of pulling on the refillable dispenser while holding the source bottle. The user must therefore perform a dedicated pulling operation to open the valve. The return to the closed state can be carried out automatically under the action of a return spring or by another dedicated pushing operation carried out by the user.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the filling and venting system comprises a controllable valve, which is manually actuated by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis X between a closed state and an open state, this axial movement being induced by step b- of screwing the refillable dispenser onto the threaded neck. The user is not even aware that simply screwing the portable dispenser causes the valve to open and unscrewing it causes the valve to close.

[0027] According to yet another embodiment, the method comprises an additional step between steps c- and d- consisting of rotating the refillable dispenser while holding the source bottle. The return to the closed state can be carried out automatically under the action of a return spring or by another dedicated reverse rotation operation carried out by the user. The invention will now be described in more detail, with reference to the attached drawings, giving by way of non-limiting examples, two embodiments of the invention.

[0028] In the figures:

[0029] Figure 1a is a schematic side view of a source bottle with its dispensing head removed,

[0030] Figure 1b is a partially transparent side schematic view of a refillable dispenser according to the invention,

[0031] Figure 2a is an exploded sectional view of a filling and venting system according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0032] Figure 2b is a view similar to that of Figure 2a in the assembled state and in the closed position,

[0033] Figure 2c is a view similar to that of Figure 2b upside down in the open position,

[0034] Figures 3a and 3b are perspective views of the filling and venting system of Figures 2a to 2c, respectively in the closed position and in the open position,

[0035] Figures 4a, 4b and 4c are views respectively similar to Figures 2a, 2b and 2c for a variant of the first embodiment of the invention,

[0036] Figures 5a, 5b and 5c are schematic views intended to illustrate the different stages of the operation of filling the refillable dispenser of the invention using the source bottle,

[0037] Figures 6a, 6b and 6c are views respectively similar to Figures 2a, 2b and 2c for a second embodiment of the invention of the filling and venting system,

[0038] Figures 7a and 7b are views respectively similar to Figures 3a and 3b for this second embodiment of the invention,

[0039] Figures 8a, 8b and 8c are views respectively similar to views 5a, 5b and 5c, for the purpose of illustrating the different steps of filling the “nomadic” dispenser integrating a filling and venting system according to the second embodiment of the invention, Figure 9 is a vertical cross-sectional view through a refillable dispenser integrating a filling and venting system according to a third embodiment of the invention,

[0040] Figure 10a is a cutaway exploded perspective view of the filling and venting system according to the third embodiment of the invention,

[0041] Figure 10b is a perspective view of a portion of the filling and venting system according to the third embodiment,

[0042] Figures 11a and 11b are enlarged views in vertical cross-section through the filling and venting system according to the third embodiment, respectively in the closed position and in the open position,

[0043] Figures 12a to 12f are vertical cross-sectional views showing the refillable dispenser according to the third embodiment mounted on a source bottle, during various filling phases,

[0044] Figures 13a and 13c are enlarged views in vertical cross-section through a filling and venting system according to a fourth embodiment, respectively in the closed position and in the open position,

[0045] Figure 13b is a perspective view of a portion of the filling and venting system according to the fourth embodiment, in the closed position,

[0046] Figure 14 is an enlarged vertical cross-sectional view through a filling and venting system according to a fifth embodiment, in the closed position, and

[0047] Figure 15 is an enlarged vertical cross-sectional view through a filling and venting system according to a sixth embodiment, in the closed position.

[0048] We will first refer to figures 1 a and 1 b to briefly describe the structure of a refillable or “nomadic” dispenser and a source bottle S. The combination of these two entities constitutes the dispensing assembly of the invention, the purpose of which is to fill the nomadic dispenser with the source bottle S, without overpressure and without overflow leakage. The source bottle S may have a completely conventional overall design in the fields of perfumery, cosmetics or even pharmacy. The source bottle S may be limited to a simple single-piece glass bottle consisting of a body intended to contain the fluid product and a threaded neck which projects above the body. Of course, the source bottle S may also be provided with accessories, which do not alter the single-piece construction of the body and the threaded neck.

[0049] The source bottle S may, for example, be provided with a dispensing head S4, which may comprise a pump S41 fitted with a pusher S42 and removably mounted on the threaded neck S2 by means of a threaded ring S43. In Figure 1 a, the rounded arrow indicates that the dispensing head S4 can be removed by rotation in an unscrewing movement. Thus, the source bottle S may consist of the body S1 with its integrated threaded neck S2. The source bottle S may be made of any suitable material, and advantageously of glass. The threaded neck S2 may meet the standard dimensions in the field of perfumery and cosmetics.

[0050] The “nomadic” refillable dispenser is available in two embodiments according to the invention. In Figure 1 b, the “nomadic” refillable dispenser corresponds indifferently to the first or second embodiment, which is why it is designated by N1 for the first embodiment and by N2 for the second embodiment. The refillable dispenser firstly comprises a reservoir R intended to contain fluid product. At its upper end, the reservoir R is provided with a dispensing head T which may comprise a pump P topped with a pusher T1 and mounted permanently or irremovably on the reservoir R by means of a fixing ring T2. At its lower end, the reservoir R is provided with a filling and venting system, which is available in two versions 1 and 2, corresponding to the two embodiments of the invention. These filling and venting systems 1, 2 will be described in detail below.Optionally, the refillable dispenser N1, N2 can be provided with an upper cover C1 covering the dispensing head T and a lower cover C2 covering the filling and venting system 1, 2.

[0051] Very generally, this refillable dispenser N1, N2 is characterized by a fluid product reservoir R, which communicates both with a dispensing head T at its upper end and with a filling and venting system 1, 2 at its lower end.

[0052] According to a particular embodiment, the reservoir R can be made of glass, and in particular in the form of a drawn glass tube, which defines two opposite openings, one receiving the dispensing head T and the other receiving the filling and venting system 1, 2.

[0053] According to the invention, the venting filling system 1, 2 is integrated into the refillable dispenser N1, N2, so that it is inseparable therefrom. The user cannot remove the filling and venting system from the reservoir without damaging the integrity of the refillable dispenser. It is therefore not possible to remove this filling and venting system from the “nomadic” dispenser to mount it on the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S.

[0054] Referring to Figures 2a, 2b and 2c, the filling and venting system 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention is seen. This filling and venting system 1 comprises a fixed part 1f and a movable part 1m, which cooperate with each other, as will be seen below. The filling and venting system 1 also comprises a movable valve member 15, which is here in the form of a ball. Incidentally, the system 1 also comprises an annular flat seal 16 intended to provide a seal on the upper annular edge S3 of the source bottle S.

[0055] The movable part 1 m comprises two constituent parts 11 and 12, which are here produced separately and attached to each other, but they could also be produced in a single piece. The movable part 1 m firstly comprises a mounting part 11, which forms a threaded sleeve 111, capable of engaging with the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S. The thread of the threaded sleeve 111 is internal, since the thread of the threaded neck S2 is external. The threaded sleeve 111 externally forms a shoulder 114 facing downwards. The mounting part 11 also comprises a chimney 112, which is substantially or perfectly cylindrical. At the junction between the threaded sleeve 111 and the chimney 112, the mounting part 11 forms a toothed plate 113. It can be said that this plate 113 extends above the threaded sleeve 111 around the chimney 112.

[0056] The movable part 1 m also comprises a transfer part 12, which has a substantially cylindrical overall configuration, so as to be able to be engaged in sealed sliding inside the chimney 111. The transfer part 12 internally defines a flow crossover duct 121, which is compartmentalized by a separating partition 122, which advantageously extends obliquely. Thus, the fluid product flows on one side of the partition 122, while the air flows on the other side in reverse flow. The cylinder 121 defines an upper annular edge 124, which serves as a valve seat for the ball 15, as will be seen below. The transfer part 12 also forms an annular lip 123, which projects radially outwards. In the final assembly position, the transfer piece 12 is inserted into the chimney 122 with the lip 123 abutting the upper edge of the chimney 112. This is visible in Figures 2b and 2c.

[0057] As mentioned above, it is possible to produce the mobile part M in a single piece by forming the conduit 121 in the extension of the chimney 112.

[0058] The fixed part 1f also comprises two parts, namely a crown 13 and a cage 14. The crown 13 is fixedly engaged in the crown 14, so that it would possibly be possible to produce these two parts in a single piece.

[0059] The crown 13 is of generally cylindrical configuration: however, its upper end is partially closed by a locking pin 131 which is surrounded by passage openings 132. At its lower end, the crown 13 forms a toothed collar 133, capable of interlocking intimately with the toothed plate 113 of the mounting part 11. In Figure 2b, the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are interlocked, whereas in Figure 2c, the teeth are disengaged and spaced apart. The engagement of the plate teeth 113 and the crown 133 has the function of driving the movable part 1 m in rotation, when the “nomadic” dispenser N1 is screwed onto the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S, as will be seen below. Another function of the crown 13 is to provide a confined space for the movable valve member 15, which can come into sealed contact with the valve seat 124 formed at the upper end of the transfer part 12.In the closed position of figure 2b, the ball 15 is pressed on its seat 124 by the locking needle 131. In figure 2c corresponding to an open position, the ball 15 is detached from the seat 124 and can rest on the needle 131.

[0060] The cage 14 serves as a receptacle for the crown 13, but also for the movable part 1 m. The cage 14 forms a skirt 141, the lower end of which forms an internal attachment profile 144. At its upper end, the cage 14 forms a dome 142 which has a dual function. The first function is to securely receive the crown 13. The second function is to provide a solid and sealed attachment to the lower edge of the reservoir R, which is advantageously made in the form of a drawn glass tube. This is why the dome 142 can be overmolded onto the skirt 142 and made of a flexible plastic material, such as an elastomer.

[0061] In Figure 2b, corresponding to the closed position of the filling and venting system 1, the threaded sleeve 111 is entirely arranged inside the skirt 141. The internal hooking profile 144 is arranged axially below the internal shoulder 114. In Figure 2c, corresponding to the open position of the filling and venting system 1, the threaded sleeve 111 projects out of the skirt 141 and the internal hooking profile 144 is engaged with the internal shoulder 114.

[0062] In Figures 3a and 3b, the filling and venting system 1 can be seen, with the cage 14 removed. This clearly reveals the crown 13 and the mounting part 11. It is easier to see the locking pin 131 which is surrounded by large passage openings 132. It is also possible to distinguish the shoulder 114 at the external wall of the threaded sleeve 111. In Figure 3a, the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are closely interlocked, so that the two parts 11 and 13 are integral in rotation. Conversely, in Figure 3b, it can be seen that the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are disengaged or moved away from each other, so that the two parts are no longer integral in rotation. In other words, the crown 13 can be rotated while leaving the mounting part 11 static.

[0063] Returning briefly to Figures 2b and 2c, it can be understood that the filling and venting system 1 can be attached and screwed onto the threaded neck S2 by means of the threaded sleeve 111. Once the connection has been made, the filling and venting system 1 is always in the closed position. It can also be said that the movable valve member 15 and its valve seat 124 together form a controllable valve, which is locked in the closed position by the locking needle 131. To unlock the valve, the user simply has to exert traction on the “nomadic” dispenser N1, while holding the source bottle S with the other hand so as to move them apart. This has the effect of moving the movable part 1 m inside the cage 14. This axial movement has the effect of releasing the movable valve member 15, which can then detach from its seat 124.On the other hand, the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are disengaged, so that a rotation of the reservoir R does not cause the threaded sleeve 111 to be unscrewed from the threaded cl S2. This decoupling between the fixed part 1f and the movable part 1m provides an assurance that the “nomadic” dispenser N1 cannot be unscrewed from the source bottle S when the valve is open.

[0064] Referring to Figures 4a, 4b and 4c, a variant of the first embodiment of the invention is shown. Structural differences exist, but the operation is identical. This filling and venting system 1' according to this variant also comprises a movable part 1m' and a fixed part 1f. The movable part 1m' here consists of a mounting and transfer part 11', which is a single piece. This part 11' forms a threaded sleeve 111, which may be identical to that of the first embodiment. The part 11' also forms a toothed plate 113, which may be identical to that of the first embodiment. The part 11' here incorporates the flow crossover duct 115, which internally forms an oblique separation partition 116. The duct 115 externally forms an annular bead 117 and defines at its upper end a valve seat 118.An annular lip 114 is formed around the conduit 115 in the axial extension of the toothed plate 113.

[0065] The fixed part 1f also comprises a crown 13' and a cage 14'. The crown 13' also comprises at its lower end a toothed collar 133, which may be identical or similar to that of the first embodiment. Internally, the crown 13 defines an internal shoulder 134.

[0066] The cage 14' may be substantially identical to the cage 14 of the first embodiment.

[0067] In this filling and venting system T, the ball 15 has been replaced by a closure member 15', which is fixedly mounted inside the crown 13. For this, the closure member 15' comprises a mounting sleeve 151, which is fixedly engaged and advantageously snap-fastened inside the crown 13. The closure member 15' also comprises a closure cap 152, as well as the lateral passage openings 153.

[0068] In the closed and mounted position shown in Figure 4b, it can be seen that the upper part of the conduit 115 is engaged inside the mounting sleeve 151 with its upper annular edge 118 serving as a valve seat in sealed contact with the cover 152. Any passage of fluid is thus impossible. The flow crossover conduit 115 is then closed. It can also be noted that the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are nested, as in the first embodiment.

[0069] In Figure 4c, corresponding to the open position of the filling and venting system T, it can be seen that the cover 52 is arranged away from the valve seat 118, so that the fluid product can pass into the conduit 115 through the lateral passage openings 153. Just as before, the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are disengaged. A part of the threaded sleeve 111 projects out of the cage 14'.

[0070] We can now refer to Figures 5a, 5b and 5c to describe an operation for filling the refillable dispenser N1 using the source S. After removing the dispensing head S4 from the neck S2, the “nomadic” dispenser N1 can be attached and mounted by screwing onto the neck S2. This is shown in Figure 5a. The source bottle S can be held fixedly and the “nomadic” dispenser N1 can be rotated, as indicated by the rounded arrow. As described previously, it is the threaded sleeve 111 which comes into threaded engagement with the threaded neck S2. Once the screwing is complete, the user can exert axial traction in the direction of the arrow visible in Figure 5b. The user simply needs to hold the bottle S with one hand and grasp the reservoir R of the “nomadic” dispenser N1 to exert axial traction away from the source S.This has the effect of opening the controllable valve integrated into the filling and venting system 1 or 1'. The fixed part 1f or 1f' remains secured to the reservoir R, while the movable part 1m or 1m' remains secured to the source bottle S. This axial traction has the effect of opening the valve, but also of disengaging the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133, so that rotating the reservoir R no longer has the effect of unscrewing the threaded sleeve 111 from the neck S2. From then on, the user can turn the assembly over to achieve the configuration shown in Figure 5c. The fluid product stored in the source bottle S can then flow by gravity into the reservoir R through the filling and venting system 1 or 1', which has been controlled to the open state. The fluid product may flow through the cross-flow conduit on one side of the partition wall 122 or 116.Simultaneously, the air trapped in the reservoir R can flow or escape upwards into the source bottle S through the filling and venting system 1, 1', by flowing into the cross-flow transfer conduit on the other side of the partition. Filling ends as soon as the fluid product level reaches the open valve. There remains sufficient air in the reservoir of the "nomadic" dispenser to absorb pressure or temperature variations. The valve can then be immediately closed by pressing the nomadic dispenser towards the source bottle. Alternatively, in the case of the first embodiment, the assembly can be turned over to place the nomadic dispenser N1 above the source bottle S. In doing so, the ball 15 will return to its seat 124 by gravity and close the conduit 121, even before closing the valve by pressing the nomadic dispenser N1 towards the source bottle S.

[0071] In Figures 6a, 6b and 6c, a filling and venting system 2 according to a second embodiment of the invention can be seen. Just as in the first embodiment, this filling and venting system 2 also comprises a fixed part 2f and a movable part 2m. The mutual movement of these two parts 2f and 2m has the same purpose as in the first embodiment, namely the opening and closing of the valve integrated into the filling and venting system 2. However, unlike the first embodiment, in which the opening of the valve results from traction exerted by the user, in this second embodiment, the opening of the valve occurs automatically when the filling and venting system 2 is screwed onto the source bottle S.

[0072] The fixed part 2f comprises two parts, namely a mounting part 23 and a cage 24. The cage 24 may be substantially similar or identical to that of the first embodiment. As for the mounting part 23, it comprises, just as in the first embodiment, a threaded sleeve 231 intended to engage with the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S. This mounting part 23 generally defines a cylindrical, slightly frustoconical configuration. The threaded sleeve 231 is located at the lower part of the mounting part 23. The threaded sleeve 231 is provided with two notches 230, more visible in Figures 7a and 7b. At its opposite end, the mounting part 11 forms a sliding barrel 231, which ends in an upper annular edge acting as a valve seat 234. Externally, the mounting part 11 forms an annular support shoulder 232.The mounting part 11 is fixedly received inside the cage 24, which itself is fixedly and tightly received inside a lower opening of the reservoir R, which can also be made in the form of a drawn glass tube. Without going into detail, the cage 24 comprises a skirt 241, which internally forms a stop profile 244. As for the cap 242, it can be made by overmolding in a flexible plastic material, such as an elastomer.

[0073] The moving part 2m also comprises two parts, namely a transfer part 21 and a moving valve member 25. These two parts are fixedly connected to each other, so that they could be made in a single piece.

[0074] The transfer part 21 comprises an annular plate 211, under which is arranged an annular seal 26. Two axial tabs 212, arranged diametrically opposite, extend downwards from the outer periphery of the annular plate 211. These tabs 212 are captive in the notches 230, as visible in FIGS. 7a and 7b. The transfer part 21 also forms a fluid crossover duct 213, in which a separating partition 214 extends. At its upper end, the duct 213 forms a lip 215.

[0075] The filling and venting system 2 also comprises a spring 27, which is arranged inside the threaded sleeve 231 and which bears against the shoulder 232. Conversely, the spring 27 bears on the annular plate 211 of the transfer part 21.

[0076] The movable valve member 25 comprises a corolla 251, as well as an anchoring heel 252, which is received in a fixed manner inside the flow crossover duct 213, as can be seen in FIGS. 6b and 6c.

[0077] In the closed position of the valve of the filling and venting system 2, the corolla 251 rests in a sealed manner on the valve seat 234 formed by the crown 23. The spring 27 is compressed between the shoulder 232 and the plate 211, so that the corolla 251 is pressed strongly against the seat 234. The lugs 212 of the transfer part 21 are received inside the cage 14 and in notches 230 of the threaded sleeve 231, as can be seen in FIGS. 7a and 7b. The lip 215 of the conduit 213 is engaged in sealed sliding in the barrel 233 of the mounting part 23. In Figure 6c, representing the valve in the open state, it can be seen that the threaded sleeve 231 is now screwed fully onto the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle, which has caused an axial displacement of the transfer part 23, the plate 211 of which is pressed against the upper annular edge S3 of the source bottle S, with the interposition of the seal 26.The axial movement of this transfer part 21 has the consequence of compressing the return spring 27 and detaching the corolla 251 from its seat 234. The valve is then open.

[0078] It should be noted in this second embodiment that the valve opens automatically when the sleeve 231 is screwed onto the threaded neck S2. In other words, the actuation of the controllable valve is induced by the screwing / unscrewing operation of the sleeve 231 onto the threaded neck S2. Furthermore, it can be noted that the seal between the refillable dispenser N2 and the source bottle S occurs at the very beginning of screwing, given that the seal 26 is compressed onto the upper annular edge S3 of the neck S2 by the plate 211 of the transfer part 21. Thus, the risks of leakage are reduced to a minimum.

[0079] In Figures 7a and 7b, it can be seen more precisely that the threaded sleeve 231 is formed by two wide notches 230 which extend over almost its entire height up to the vicinity of the shoulder 232. The lugs 212 are inscribed inside these notches 230 and can move, as explained previously, axially by sliding with compression of the return spring 27. In Figure 7a, the valve is in the rest position and comes into abutment against the attachment profiles 244 of the cage, as can be seen in Figure 6b. In Figure 7b, the valve is open and the lugs 212 have been moved axially upwards inside the notches 230 by the plate 211 pressing on the upper annular edge S3 of the neck S2. The tabs 212 are then snapped above the attachment profiles 244, as seen in Figure 6c.This click may generate a noise, such as a "click," which indicates to the user that the flap is in the open position.

[0080] With reference to figures 8a, 8b and 8c, the different stages of a filling operation of the “nomadic” refillable dispenser N2 can be seen. In figure 8a, the refillable dispenser N2 is attached to the source bottle S and can be screwed on by rotating the “nomadic” dispenser relative to the bottle S. As explained previously, the threaded sleeve 231 comes into threaded engagement with the threaded neck S2. At the end of screwing, as shown in figure 8b, the tabs 212 snap into place on the other side of the attachment profile 244 of the cage 24, generating a small click, indicating to the user that screwing is complete. The user then simply has to turn the assembly over, as shown in figure 8c. The fluid product from the source bottle S then flows by gravity into the reservoir R of the refillable dispenser N2, passing through the flow crossover conduit 213 on one side of the separating partition 214.At the same time, the air contained in the reservoir R can be discharged upwards into the source bottle S through the conduit 213 on the other side of the partition 214.

[0081] Once the N2 refillable dispenser is filled, simply turn the assembly over and unscrew the dispenser from the source bottle S. Finally, the user can optionally reassemble the S4 dispensing head onto the threaded neck S2.

[0082] Figure 9 shows a refillable or "nomadic" dispenser N3 according to a third embodiment of the invention, which integrates a filling and venting system 3, which performs substantially the same functions as the systems previously described. The "nomadic" dispenser N3 is shown here without a pump mounted on its neck, but it must be understood that it actually integrates a pump, as in the two previous embodiments. The filling and venting system 3 is mounted in a fixed and sealed manner at the lower end of the reservoir R, which can be formed from a glass tube. Just as in the previous embodiments, the filling and venting system 3 is permanently mounted at the lower end of the reservoir R: any disassembly is impossible.Very generally, the filling and venting system 3 comprises, just as in the two previous embodiments, a fixed part 3f and a movable part 31 or 3m. The fixed part 3f comprises two parts 32 and 33 which are mounted on top of each other to form a unitary assembly. The filling and venting system 3 also comprises a ball 34, acting as a movable valve member, and a spring 35 which acts between the fixed part 3f and the movable part or piece 31 or 3m. The filling and venting system 3 incorporates a controllable valve.

[0083] Reference will now be made to Figures 10a and 10b to describe in detail the structure of this filling and venting system 3 according to this third embodiment of the invention. The movable part 31 or 3m is preferably made in a single piece by injection of plastic material. First of all, this movable part 31 forms a threaded sleeve 311, intended to come into threaded engagement with the threaded neck of a source bottle. The movable part 31 also forms an inlet pipe 312 which extends coaxially inside the threaded sleeve 311. This inlet pipe 312 comprises an axial opening 3121 as well as a lateral opening 3122. The threaded sleeve 311 is connected to the inlet pipe 312 by an annular plate 313. A neck seal 314 is attached to the inside of the threaded sleeve 311 around the inlet pipe 312 to come into contact with the lower face of the annular plate 313.The plate 313 forms an annular valve seat 315, which is in the form of an annular flange that projects upwards from the inner periphery of the plate 313. This valve seat 315 surrounds the upper end of the inlet pipe 312. It can even be noted that the lateral opening 3122 is located in direct proximity to the valve seat 315. The movable part 31 also forms a sliding barrel 316 that extends upwards from the annular plate 313. The sliding barrel 316 is coaxial and extends outside the valve seat 315. Externally, the sliding barrel 316 is provided with axial or vertical ribs 317 that extend upwards from the plate 313. For example, two ribs 317 located diametrically opposite each other can be provided. The sliding barrel 316 extends upwards by several flexible tabs or sectors 318 which externally form attachment profiles 319.

[0084] As previously mentioned, the fixed part 3f comprises two separate parts 32 and 33 fixedly attached to one another. The first fixed part 32 comprises a substantially cylindrical skirt 321, which surrounds the threaded sleeve 311 of the movable part 31. At its upper end, the skirt 321 is connected to an internal crown 322 which forms axial snap-fastening housings 323. The crown 322 also forms one or more inclined helical ramps 324 which are oriented downwards. For example, two ramps 324 can be provided.

[0085] The second fixed part 33 comprises an annular collar 331 which projects radially outwards and which is intended to bear on the crown 322. The second fixed part 33 also comprises snap-fastening sectors 333 intended to come into snap-fastened engagement in the snap-fastening housings 323. Externally, the fixed part 33 is provided with a sealing gasket 332 intended to come into tight, sealing contact inside the reservoir R. The second fixed part 33 also forms a lip duct 334 which forms at its lower end an annular lip 335 intended to come into sealing sliding contact inside the sliding barrel 316. The lip duct 334 internally forms a thrust needle 336, which is oriented downwards. The filling and venting system 3 also includes a ball 34 and a spring 35, the functions of which will be explained in more detail below.The ball 34 in selective support on its seat 315 forms a controllable valve, the manipulation of which will be described below.

[0086] In Figure 10b, we see the first fixed part 32 mounted on the movable part 31. The skirt 321 surrounds the threaded sleeve 311 as well as a part of the sliding barrel 316, which is partially visible below the inclined helical ramp 324. We can also see the upper end of the vertical rib 317 which comes into contact with the ramp 324. The spring 35 is arranged around the flexible tabs 318 and bears on the one hand on the top of the crown 322 and on the other hand below the attachment profiles 319. The spring 35 thus urges the attachment profiles 319 away from the crown 322. As a result, the upper end of the vertical rib 317 is urged against the inclined helical ramp 324. In Figure 10b, the rib 317 is located at the level the highest of the ramp 324, so that the hooking profiles 319 are in the position furthest from the crown 322.It is easily understood that a rotation of the fixed part 32 around the movable part 31 in the counterclockwise direction has the effect of moving the rib 317 along the inclined ramp 324, causing the attachment profiles 319 to be brought closer to the crown 322.

[0087] In Figure 11a, the filling and venting system 3 is shown in its closed position. The spring 35 is relaxed. The hooking profiles 319 are in their position furthest from the crown 322. The sealing lip 335 which drives the lip 334 is pushed as far as possible inside the sliding barrel 316. The thrust needle 336 is in contact with the ball 34, which is thus pushed onto its valve seat 315. The ribs 317 are in the position shown in Figure 10a. In this closed position, there can be no fluid communication between the inlet pipe 312 and the lip conduit 334, given that the ball 34, acting as a movable valve member, is pressed by the needle 336 against its seat 315.

[0088] In Figure 11b, the movable part 31 or 3m has been moved relative to the fixed part 3f. This relative axial movement has been generated by the relative rotation between the movable part 3m and the fixed part 3f. During this relative rotation, the ribs 317 have been moved along the inclined helical ramps 324 from the closed position shown in Figure 10b into an open position, in which the ribs 317 are then positioned at the other end of the ramps 324. The movement of the ribs 317, which act as a cam, has the effect of bringing the attachment profiles 319 closer to the crown 322. The spring 35 is then compressed. The lip duct 334 has moved into the slide barrel 316 and the thrust needle 336 has come loose from the ball 34 which rests unstressed on its seat 315.It is easily understood that a flow of fluid product coming from the inlet pipe 312 will detach the ball 34 from its seat 315 so as to be able to flow through the lip conduit 334.

[0089] We will now refer to Figures 12a to 12f to describe a complete operation of filling the “nomadic” dispenser N3 from a source bottle S, through the filling and venting system 3 according to this third embodiment of the invention. In Figure 12a, the threaded sleeve 311 is already screwed around the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S. However, the filling and venting system 3 is still in its closed position shown in Figure 11a. The ball 34 is pushed against its seat 315 by the needle 336. To achieve this configuration, the user simply drives the refillable dispenser R in rotation on the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle.

[0090] By continuing the rotation on the refillable dispenser R, the configuration shown in Figure 12b is reached. The system 3 is then in the open configuration shown in Figure 11b. The needle 36 is detached from the ball 34.

[0091] The user can then turn the source bottle S upside down, with the “nomadic” dispenser N3 mounted on it, to arrive at the configuration of figure 12c. The fluid product stored in the source bottle S then flows by gravity through the lateral opening 3122 of the inlet pipe 312 to reach the ball 34, which is then detached from its seat and rests in an unstable and non-sealing manner on the needle 336. The fluid product can then flow through the lip conduit 334 to reach the reservoir R of the “nomadic” dispenser N3. At the same time, the air from the reservoir R of the “nomadic” dispenser N3 can escape through the lip conduit 334 and the axial opening 3121 of the inlet pipe 312.

[0092] The filling of the reservoir R is completed as soon as the liquid level reaches the inlet of the lip conduit 334. There remains a little air around the second fixed part 33. We are then in the configuration of figure 12d.

[0093] The user can then turn the source bottle S over again to achieve the configuration shown in Figure 12e. The reservoir R of the “nomadic” dispenser N3 is filled with fluid product and a little air, but it cannot flow back into the source bottle S, since the ball 34 rests in a sealed manner by gravity on its seat 315.

[0094] It is then sufficient to close the controllable valve of the filling and venting system 3 by rotating the “nomadic” distributor N3 on the source bottle S. We then arrive at the configuration shown in figure 12f, which corresponds to the closed configuration of figure 11b.

[0095] The user can unscrew the threaded sleeve 31 from the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle to separate the “nomadic” distributor N3 from the source bottle S.

[0096] In summary, the "nomadic" dispenser N3 is first screwed onto the neck S2 of the source bottle S by means of the threaded sleeve 311. Then, the controllable valve 34, 315 of the filling and venting system 3 is opened by continuing the screwing operation. Once the reservoir is filled, a rotation in the opposite direction closes the controllable valve. Finally, the "nomadic" dispenser N3 is unscrewed from the source bottle S. This sequence of operations, namely screwing / opening / closing / unscrewing, is imposed by a torque peak resulting from the crushing of the neck seal 314, combined with a screwing torque which is lower than the opening torque. Thus, it is guaranteed that the screwing phase takes place before the opening phase and that the closing phase takes place before the unscrewing phase. More precisely, at the end of screwing, the upper edge of the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S comes into contact with the neck seal 314.This axial contact generates a torque peak, which of course immobilizes the sleeve 31 relative to the neck S2 and which triggers the opening of the controllable valve. The same is true symmetrically during closing and unscrewing. The unscrewing torque is lower than the torque peak generated by the compression of the neck seal 314, so that the closing of the controllable valve takes place before unscrewing.

[0097] In this third embodiment, the opening of the controllable valve occurs in the continuity of the screwing of the threaded sleeve 311 onto the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S and the closing of the controllable valve occurs before the unscrewing operation. For the user, the opening and closing of the controllable valve are imperceptible.

[0098] Figures 13a, 13b and 13c illustrate a fourth embodiment of the invention, which incorporates a filling and venting system 4, which performs substantially the same functions as the systems previously described. Only the lower part of the “nomadic” dispenser N4 is shown here, but it should be understood that it actually incorporates a pump, as in the other previous embodiments. The filling and venting system 4 generally takes up the design of the filling and venting system 3 of the third embodiment, except for the ball 34 and the ramps 324. The filling and venting system 4 is mounted in a fixed and sealed manner at the lower end of the reservoir, which may be formed from a glass tube. Just as in the previous embodiments, the filling and venting system 4 is permanently mounted at the lower end of the reservoir R: any disassembly is impossible.Very generally, the filling and venting system 4 comprises, as in the previous embodiments, a fixed part 4f and a movable part 4m. The fixed part 4f comprises two parts 42 and 43, which are mounted on top of each other to form a unitary assembly. The filling and venting system 4 also comprises a spring 45 which acts between the fixed part 4f and the movable part 4m. The filling and venting system 4 incorporates a manually operated controllable valve, here by traction.

[0099] The moving part 4m may comprise the same characteristics as the moving part 3m of the third embodiment, including the ribs 317, referenced 417 in this fourth embodiment. The moving part 4m forms, among other things, the threaded sleeve 411 and the valve seat 415.

[0100] The fixed part 4f may comprise the same features as the fixed part 3f of the third embodiment, with the exception of the ramps 324 and the thrust needle 336. In place of the ramps 324, the fixed part 4f forms longitudinal slots 434, in which the ribs 417 are slidably engaged. The fixed part 4f also comprises two separate parts 42 and 43 fixedly attached to each other. The first fixed part 42 defines an upper annular edge 418, on which a spring 45 bears. The second fixed part 43 forms a valve member 436 in place of the thrust needle 336.

[0101] Thus, a complete operation of filling the nomadic dispenser N4 from a source bottle S, through the filling and venting system 4 according to this fourth embodiment of the invention takes place as follows:

[0102] - Screwing the threaded sleeve 411 of the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S, Turning the assembly thus formed to place the source bottle (S) above the distributor N4,

[0103] - Traction exerted on the distributor N4 while holding the source bottle S, inducing the opening of the controllable valve (valve member 436 detached from its seat 415),

[0104] - Filling of the reservoir R of the distributor N4 and evacuation of the air in the source bottle S (arrows A and F in figure 13c),

[0105] - Release of the traction exerted on distributor N4, inducing the closing of the controllable valve under the action of spring 45,

[0106] - Turning over the assembly thus formed to place the N4 distributor again above the source bottle S,

[0107] - Unscrewing the threaded sleeve 411.

[0108] With this N4 distributor, the user can easily control the filling level of the R tank, by releasing the traction at the desired moment.

[0109] Figure 14 illustrates a fifth embodiment of the invention, which incorporates a filling and venting system 5, which performs substantially the same functions as the systems previously described. The filling and venting system 5 generally takes up the design of the filling and venting system 3 of the third embodiment, except for the ball 34. The ramp cam system 324 and ribs 317 has also been taken up, but with some adaptations so that it automatically returns to its starting position.

[0110] Very generally, the filling and venting system 5 comprises, as in the previous embodiments, a fixed part 5f and a movable part 5m. The fixed part 5f comprises two parts 52 and 53, which are mounted on top of each other to form a unitary assembly. The filling and venting system 5 also comprises a spring 55 which acts between the fixed part 5f and the movable part or part 5m. The filling and venting system 5 incorporates a manually operated controllable valve, here by rotation or screwing.

[0111] The movable part 5m may comprise the same features as the movable part 3m of the third embodiment, including the ribs 517.

[0112] The fixed part 5f may include the same features as the fixed part 3f of the third embodiment, including the ramps 324, but with the valve member 436 of the fourth embodiment instead of the thrust needle 336 of the third embodiment.

[0113] The fixed part 5f also comprises two separate parts 52 and 53 fixedly attached to each other. The first fixed part 52 defines the ramps 524 and the second fixed part 53 forms the valve member 536.

[0114] A spring 55 acts between the movable part 5m and the first fixed part 52, just as in the third embodiment.

[0115] The mobile part 5m can thus rotate relative to the fixed part 5f, after screwing the sleeve 511 onto the threaded neck of the source bottle S, exerting an opening torque, which allows the ribs 517 to slide along the ramps 524.

[0116] The particularity of this fifth embodiment lies in the fact that the slope of the ramps 524 and the stiffness of the spring 55 have been determined in such a way that the ribs 517 automatically slide back under the ramps 524, as soon as the torque is released. In other words, as in the fourth embodiment, the return of the controllable valve to the closed position occurs automatically as soon as the user releases the torque. It is therefore not necessary to unscrew manually to close the controllable valve.

[0117] Thus, a complete operation of filling the nomadic dispenser N5 from a source bottle S, through the filling and venting system 5 according to this fifth embodiment of the invention takes place as follows:

[0118] - Screwing the threaded sleeve 511 of the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S, - Turning the assembly thus formed to place the source bottle S above the distributor N5,

[0119] - Opening torque exerted between the distributor N5 and the source bottle S, inducing the opening of the controllable valve,

[0120] - Maintaining the opening torque when filling the R reservoir of the N5 distributor,

[0121] - Release of the screwing torque, inducing the closing of the controllable valve under the action of spring 55,

[0122] - Turning over the assembly thus formed to place the N5 distributor again above the source bottle S,

[0123] - Unscrewing the threaded sleeve 511.

[0124] With this N5 distributor, the user can easily control the filling level of the R tank, releasing the torque at the desired moment.

[0125] Referring to Figure 15, a sixth embodiment for a nomadic dispenser N6 will be briefly described. Very generally, the filling and venting system 6 comprises, as in the previous embodiments, a fixed part 6f and a movable part 6m. The fixed part 6f comprises two fixed parts 61 and 62, which are mounted on top of each other to form a unitary assembly. The movable part 6m comprises two movable parts 63 and 64, which are mounted on top of each other to form a unitary assembly, trapping a ball 65 between them. The filling and venting system 6 also comprises a spring 65, which acts between the fixed part 6f and the movable part 6m. The filling and venting system 6 incorporates a main valve that can be controlled manually, here by rotation, and a temporary valve with a free ball.

[0126] The first fixed part 61 forms a threaded sleeve 611 to be screwed onto the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S. The second fixed part 62 forms a main valve seat 625.

[0127] The first moving part 63 forms a support collar 631 intended to come into abutment on the upper edge of the threaded neck S2, with a neck seal possibly interposed. The first moving part 63 also forms a tube 631 which penetrates into the threaded neck S2, a temporary valve seat 632 and a chimney 634. The ball 65 is housed in the chimney 634 and rests by gravity on the temporary valve seat 632, when the distributor N6 is in the upright position, as visible in Figure 15.

[0128] The second moving part 64 is fixedly mounted around the chimney 634 and comprises a needle 644 engaged in the chimney to limit the freedom of the ball 65, which can still move freely by gravity. Since the moving parts 63 and 64 are fixed relative to each other, the ball is never blocked: it can move freely in a restricted space delimited by the temporary valve seat 632 and the needle 644. The second moving part 64 also forms a main valve member 645, capable of coming into sealed contact with the main valve seat 625, under the action of the spring 65.

[0129] Thus, a complete operation of filling the nomadic dispenser N6 from a source bottle S, through the filling and venting system 6 according to this fifth embodiment of the invention takes place as follows:

[0130] - Screwing of the threaded sleeve 611 of the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S, inducing the opening of the controllable main valve,

[0131] - Turning over the assembly thus formed to place the source bottle S above the distributor N6,

[0132] - Filling of the N6 distributor tank by gravity,

[0133] - Turning over the assembly thus formed to place the distributor N6 again above the source bottle S, causing the temporary valve to close (ball 65 resting on its seat 632,

[0134] - Unscrewing of the threaded sleeve 611, causing the controllable main valve to close,

[0135] With this N6 distributor, the main controllable valve is separate from the temporary valve, which only fulfills its function after the second turning and before unscrewing.

[0136] In the six embodiments, including in the variant of the first embodiment, the “nomadic” refillable dispenser integrates a filling and venting system comprising a threaded sleeve intended to be screwed directly onto the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S, which is preferably made in a single piece, for example in glass.

[0137] The filling and venting systems incorporate a controlled valve, the opening of which is caused by a user action, namely a traction without elastic return stress in the first embodiment, a traction with automatic return to the closed position by elastic stress in the fourth embodiment, simple screwing under elastic stress in the second and sixth embodiments, an actuating screwing under elastic stress which follows or precedes the screwing on the neck of the source bottle in the third embodiment and finally an actuating screwing with automatic return to the closed position by elastic stress in the fifth embodiment.

[0138] It should be noted that these different gravity filling and venting systems, and more particularly their controllable valves, can be implemented without the threaded sleeve intended to be screwed directly onto the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S. In other words, independent protection could be sought for a refillable dispenser comprising a dispensing head, a reservoir and a gravity filling and venting system incorporating a controllable valve which is manually actuated, by an axial movement induced by traction or rotation, between a closed state and an open state.

Claims

Claims Assembly comprising a source bottle (S) and a refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6), the source bottle (S), advantageously made of glass, comprising a body (S1) containing a fluid product and a threaded neck (S2) made in one piece with the body (S1), the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) defining a longitudinal axis (X) and comprising at an upper end a dispensing head (T) provided with a pusher (T1) and at a lower end a filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6), the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) comprising a reservoir (R) in communication with both the dispensing head (T) and the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6), characterized in that the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) incorporates a threaded sleeve (111; 231; 311; 411; 511;611) capable of being screwed onto the threaded neck (S2) of the source bottle (S), the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6) then being connected to the body (S1), so that the fluid product of the source bottle (S) can flow by gravity from the source bottle (S) into the reservoir (R) through the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6), while the air from the reservoir (R) can flow simultaneously from the reservoir (R) into the source bottle (S) through the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6). Dispensing assembly according to claim 1, in which the threaded sleeve (111; 231; 311; 411; 511; 611) is irremovably connected to the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3), so that it is inseparable therefrom, the threaded sleeve (111; 231; 311; 411; 511; 611) advantageously forming an integral and inseparable part of the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5;6), which is mounted irremovably on the tank (R).; Dispensing assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6) comprises a controllable valve (15, 124; 15', 118; 25, 234; 34, 315; 415, 436; 515, 536; 625, 645), which is manually actuated, by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis (X) induced by traction or rotation, between a closed state and an open state, the controllable valve comprising a valve seat (124; 118; 315; 415; 515; 625) and a valve member (15; 15'; 34; 436; 536; 645), the valve seat (124; 118; 315; 415; 515; 625) being integral in movement with the threaded sleeve (111; 231; 311; 411; 511; 611).Dispensing assembly according to claim 3, in which the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 3; 4; 5; 6) comprises a fixed part (1f; 1f; 3f; 4f; 5f; 6f) mounted on the reservoir (R) and a movable part (1m; 1m'; 3m; 4m; 5m; 6m) capable of moving axially relative to the fixed part (1f; 1f'; 3f; 4f; 5f; 6f) over a determined axial travel, generating the opening, respectively the closing, of the controllable valve (15, 124; 15', 118; 34, 315; 415, 436; 515, 536; 625, 645). Distribution assembly according to claim 4, in which the threaded sleeve (111; 311) is formed by the movable part (1 m; 3 m), the valve member (15; 34) being a free member, such as a ball, which is pressed against the valve seat (124; 315) by the fixed part (1 f; 3 f) in the closed state and which is free to detach from the valve seat (124; 315) in the open position.A distribution assembly according to claim 5, wherein the fixed part (3f) and the movable part (3m) are rotatable relative to each other, the fixed part (3f) and the movable part (3m) together defining a cam system (317, 324) capable of generating relative axial movement. along the longitudinal axis (X) of the fixed part (3f) relative to the mobile part (3m) by the relative rotation of the fixed part (3f) relative to the mobile part (3m).

7. A dispensing assembly according to claim 6, wherein the cam system comprises an inclined helical ramp (324) formed by one of the fixed part (3f) and the movable part (3m) and a cam (317) formed by the other of the fixed part (3f) and the movable part (3m), the cam (317) sliding along the inclined helical ramp (324) upon relative rotation of the fixed part (3f) relative to the movable part (3m).

8. Distribution assembly according to claim 6 or 7, in which a spring (35) acts between the fixed part (3f) and the movable part (3m) so as to urge the fixed part (3f) towards the movable valve member (34) to press it against its valve seat (315), the cam system (317, 327), in a direction of rotation, moving the fixed part (3f) away from the valve member (34) so ​​that it can detach from its valve seat (315).

9. A distribution assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the threaded sleeve (411) and the valve seat (415) are formed by the movable part (4m), the valve member (436) is formed by the fixed part (4f), a spring (45) acting between the fixed part (4f) and the movable part (4m) so as to urge the valve member (436) towards the valve seat (415), the fixed part (4f) and the movable part (4m) being movable against the spring (45) by traction along the longitudinal axis (X) to detach the movable member (436) from the valve seat (415) and thus bring the controllable valve into the open position, the spring (45) automatically returning the controllable valve to the closed position, as soon as the traction is released.

10. Distribution assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which the threaded sleeve (511) and the valve seat (515) are formed by the movable part (5m), the valve member (536) is formed by the fixed part (5f), a spring (55) acting between the fixed part (5f) and the movable part (5m) so as to urge the valve member (536) towards the valve seat (515), the fixed part (5f) and the movable part (5m) together defining a cam system (517, 524) capable of generating a relative axial movement along the longitudinal axis (X) of the fixed part (5f) relative to the movable part (5m) by the relative rotation of the fixed part (5f) relative to the movable part (4m), the fixed part (5f) and the movable part (5m) being movable against the spring (55) by an opening torque to detach the movable member (536) from the valve seat (515) and thus bring the controllable valve into the open position, the spring (55) automatically returning the controllable valve to the closed position, as soon as the torque opening is released.Distribution assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the movable part (3m; 4m; 5m) also forms an inlet pipe (312) upstream of the valve seat (315; 415; 515) inside the threaded sleeve (311), the inlet pipe (312) forming an axial opening (3121) and a lateral opening (3122), the lateral opening (3122) being advantageously located close to the valve seat (315; 415; 515).Dispensing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which the threaded sleeve (611) and the valve seat (625) are formed by the fixed part (6f), the valve member (645) is formed by the movable part (6m), a spring (65) acting between the fixed part (6f) and the movable part (6m) so as to urge the valve member (645) towards the valve seat (625), the fixed part (6f) and the movable part (6m) being movable against the spring (65) by screwing the threaded sleeve (611) onto the threaded neck (S2) of the source bottle (S) to detach the movable member (645) from the valve seat (625) and thus bring the controllable valve into the open position, the movable part (6m) advantageously incorporating a ball valve comprising a ball seat (632) and. a ball (66) which moves freely under gravity, the ball (66) resting on its ball seat (632), when the refillable dispenser (N6) is in the upright position.

13. Method for filling a refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) using a source bottle (S), the source bottle (S), advantageously made of glass, comprising a body (S1) containing a fluid product and a threaded neck (S2) made in one piece with the body (S1), the source bottle () being provided with a dispensing head (S4) removably screwed onto the threaded neck (S2), the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) defining a longitudinal axis (X) and comprising at an upper end a dispensing head (T) provided with a pusher (T1) and at a lower end a filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6), the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) comprising a reservoir (R) in communication with both the dispensing head (T) and the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2), the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) incorporating a threaded sleeve (111;231; 311; 411; 511; 611) capable of screwing onto the threaded neck (S2) of the source bottle (S), the filling method comprising the following successive steps: a- unscrewing the dispensing head (S4) from the threaded neck (S2), b- screwing the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) onto the threaded neck (S2), c- turning the assembly thus formed upside down to place the source bottle (S) above the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6), d- allowing the fluid product from the source bottle (S) to flow by gravity into the reservoir (R) through the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6), and allowing the air from the reservoir (R) to flow out; simultaneously from the reservoir (R) into the source bottle (S) through the filling and venting system (1; 1 '; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6), e- turn the assembly thus formed over to place the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) back above the source bottle (S), f- unscrew the refillable dispenser (N1; N2; N3; N4; N5; N6) onto the threaded neck (S2), and g- optionally screw the dispensing head (S4) back onto the threaded neck (S2). Filling method according to claim 13, wherein the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 4) comprises a controllable valve (15, 124; 15', 118; 415, 436), which is manually actuated by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis (X) between a closed state and an open state, the method comprising an additional step between steps c- and d- consisting of pulling on the refillable dispenser (N1; N4) while holding the source bottle (S).Filling method according to claim 13, wherein the filling and venting system (2; 3; 5; 6) comprises a controllable valve (25, 234; 34, 315; 515, 536; 625, 645), which is manually actuated by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis (X) between a closed state and an open state, the method comprising an additional step between steps c- and d- consisting of rotating the refillable dispenser (N2; N3; N5; N6) while holding the source bottle (S). * * *

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