Aerosol cap and aerosol product

Abstract

An aerosol cap 1 includes a nozzle 3 and a reaching distance extension structure 4 extending a reaching distance of the contents. The reaching distance extension structure 4 includes a merging space 46 formed downstream of the nozzle 3, and an outside air introduction path 43 that guides air outside the nozzle 3 to the merging space 46.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol cap attached to an aerosol container, and an aerosol product equipped with the aerosol cap.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] For example, in aerosol products used for insecticides, attempts have been made to improve and optimize an jetting property by devising shapes such as the internal shape of the jetting nozzle and the shape of the nozzle opening. However, there is a limit to the improvement in jetting property by simply devising shapes such as the internal shape of the nozzle and the shape of the nozzle opening.

[0003] In this regard, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration having a mixing chamber where a liquid to be sprayed from a first nozzle is mixed with outside air. According to Patent Document 1, this configuration can atomize the spray in an aerosol using nitrogen gas.CITATION LISTPATENT DOCUMENT

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. H11-169759SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONTECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0005] An aerosol having a configuration for atomizing its contents using compressed gas, such as nitrogen gas, as a propellant is suitable for softly and gently spraying the contents over a short distance from the spray nozzle and is generally employed in cosmetics and similar applications. It is likely that Patent Document 1 is also intended for this type of application.

[0006] On the other hand, a strong and stable jetting force is required in an insecticide aerosol or the like, for example, and therefore, a liquefied gas is generally used as a propellant. When a liquefied gas is used as the propellant, the configuration for atomizing the spray as in Patent Document 1 is not required.

[0007] In such an insecticide aerosol, the contents sometimes need to reach a long distance in order to exterminate pests at a certain distance away, requiring a reaching distance of the contents and a jetting force of the contents. Accordingly, in such applications, a configuration that can increase the reaching distance of the contents and the jetting force of the contents is required.

[0008] It is therefore an objective of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol cap and an aerosol product which can increase the reaching distance of the contents and the jetting force of the contents.SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM

[0009] In order to achieve the aforementioned objective, an aspect of the present disclosure can be directed to an aerosol cap to be attached to an aerosol container containing contents which at least includes a propellant including a liquefied gas. The aerosol cap includes: a nozzle from which the contents are jetted; and a reaching distance extension structure configured to extend a reaching distance of the contents jetted from the nozzle. The reaching distance extension structure can be configured to include: a merging space formed downstream of a downstream end of the nozzle in a jetting direction; and an outside air introduction path that extends along an outside of the nozzle, from a portion upstream of the downstream end of the nozzle to the merging space, and guides air outside the nozzle to the merging space.

[0010] According to the configuration, the contents flow through the nozzle and reaches the merging space. Air (outside air) outside the nozzle flows through the outside air introduction path and reaches the merging space. Since the contents are jetted forcefully by the propellant in the merging space, the outside air in the outside air introduction path is drawn into the merging space by the force and merges with the contents. This increases the force of the contents jetted from the aerosol cap, thereby extending the reaching distance of the contents compared to the case where no outside air is mixed.

[0011] The outside air introduction path preferably introduces the outside air into the merging space in a direction substantially parallel to the jetting direction of the contents. In this regard, Patent Document 1, for example, discloses a configuration in which the spray is atomized by introducing outside air so as to intersect the jetting direction of the contents. However, if such a configuration is employed in a cap for an aerosol using a liquefied gas, it is considered that airflow turbulence may occur, leading to a reduction in spray force. Introducing outside air in the direction substantially parallel to the jetting direction of the contents as in the present invention can suitably provide an effect of decreasing turbulence of the air flow and increasing the force of the spray.

[0012] The nozzle according to another aspect of the present disclosure may have a tubular shape. In this case, the reaching distance extension structure may include an outer cylinder portion covering at least an outer periphery of the downstream end of the nozzle in the jetting direction, and the outside air introduction path may be formed between an outer peripheral surface of the nozzle and an inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion. Thus, the outside air introduction path formed between the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle and the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion can have a desired shape over the entire circumference.

[0013] An upstream end of the outer cylinder portion in the air flow direction may be located at an intermediate portion of the nozzle in the jetting direction and may be open at the intermediate portion. In this case, the outside air introduction path can be formed to extend to the downstream end in the jetting direction along the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle, and the flow of the outside air toward the merging space is smoothly formed.

[0014] Further, in a cross section passing through the downstream end of the nozzle in the jetting direction and orthogonal to the jetting direction, a cross-sectional area of a region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion may be less than 12 times a cross-sectional area of an opening of the nozzle. That is, if the diameter of the outer cylinder portion is too large relative to the nozzle, the velocity of the outside air to be introduced is not increased, and the effect of extending the reaching distance of the contents is not exhibited. The effect of extending the reaching distance of contents can be sufficiently exhibited by setting the cross-sectional area of the outer cylinder portion within the above range relative to the cross-sectional area of the nozzle.

[0015] Further, an aerosol product may include an aerosol container to which the aerosol cap is attached.ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0016] As described above, outside air is introduced into the merging space formed downstream of the nozzle, making it possible to increase the reaching distance of the contents jetted from the aerosol containing liquefied gas as a propellant and the jetting force of the contents.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] [FIG. 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of an aerosol product according to an embodiment of the present invention. [FIG. 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of an aerosol cap. [FIG. 3] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol cap. [FIG. 4] FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol cap disassembled. [FIG. 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol cap according to Examples 1 to 7. [FIG. 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol cap according to Comparative Example. [FIG. 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol cap according to Examples 8 to 10. [FIG. 8] FIG. 8 shows simulation results of the flow velocity in Comparative Example and Example 1. [FIG. 9] FIG. 9 shows a simulation result of the flow velocity in the vicinity of a distal end of the nozzle according to Comparative Example. [FIG. 10] FIG. 10 shows simulation results of the flow velocity in the vicinity of the distal end of the nozzle according to Examples 1 and 5. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The description of preferred embodiments below is merely an example in nature, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or use of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 1 shows an aerosol product 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. An aerosol product A includes an aerosol container 100 and an aerosol cap 1 attached to the aerosol container 100. In this embodiment, an example in which the aerosol product A includes an aerosol container 100 and an aerosol cap 1 will be described, but the aerosol product A may further include other members than these. The aerosol cap 1 can also be referred to as, for example, an aerosol container cap.

[0020] The aerosol product A is configured to allow spraying the contents of the aerosol container 100 to a certain distance away. A reaching distance of the contents by the aerosol product A can be set by a configuration of a valve mechanism 101a to be described later, a diameter of the nozzle 3, the composition of the propellant, a configuration of a reaching distance extension structure 4, and the like. The reaching distance of the contents by the aerosol product A can be 0.5 m or more, preferably 1 m or more, more preferably 3 m or more. The term "reaching distance" herein refers to a horizontal distance within which mist can be visually observed when the contents of the aerosol product A are sprayed in the horizontal direction under windless conditions.

[0021] Before the aerosol cap 1 is described, the aerosol container 100 will be described. The aerosol container 100 has a well-known structure including a vertically long container body 101 containing an aerosol stock solution and a propellant for jetting the aerosol stock solution as its contents, and a valve mechanism 101a and a stem (a jet pipe) 102 which are provided on an upper portion of the container body 101. The container body 101 is a cylindrical pressure-resistant container. The stem 102 is provided in a substantially center portion of an upper wall portion of the container body 101. The lower end of the stem 102 can communicate with the interior of the container body 101 via the valve mechanism 101a. The stem 102 is biased upward to protrude upward from the upper wall portion of the container body 101 by the valve mechanism 101a, and can be pushed to move downward (inward of the container body 101).

[0022] The stem 102 pushed to move downward opens the valve mechanism 101a, causing the stem 102 and the interior of the container body 101 to communicate each other and the contents to be jetted by the pressure of the propellant. When the downward external force applied to the stem 102 is removed, the stem 102 returns to the original position by the biasing force of the valve mechanism 101a, and the valve mechanism 101a is closed.

[0023] The aerosol stock solution contained in the container body 101 can contain various kinds of components. The components are not particularly limited. Examples thereof include an insecticide, an insect repellent, a deodorant, a bactericide, a herbicide, an air refresher, an antiperspirant, a sunscreen ingredient, a paint, and a water repellant. Among these, only one kind or a mixture of two or more kinds may be used as a chemical. Since one objective of the present invention is to extend the reaching distance of the contents, a component that needs to be sprayed from a distant position is particularly suitable. An insecticide can be an example of such a component. The aerosol stock solution may contain a solvent, a synergist, or any other components.

[0024] The propellant contained in the container body 101 includes a liquefied gas. The liquefied gas as a propellant is superior to compressed gas in that the jetting force does not decrease even when the contents are reduced with the use of the aerosol product A. If the compressed gas is used as a propellant, the aerosol cap needs to have a structure for atomizing the spray (e.g., Patent Document 1), but if the liquefied gas is used as a propellant, such a structure is not necessary. As the liquefied gas, for example, LP gas, dimethyl ether (DME), or the like is commonly used, but the liquefied gas is not limited thereto. For example, a fluorine-based liquefied gas such as hydrofluoroolefin or other refrigerant gas may be used. A propellant may be any one kind or a mixture of any two or more kinds of the group consisting of these.

[0025] The contents contained in the container body 101 may be only the propellant without the aerosol stock solution. In this case, for example, the propellant can be used as a cooling aerosol, utilizing a cooling effect caused by the vaporization of the liquefied gas contained in the propellant after a portion of the liquefied gas is jetted in liquid form and adheres to an object.

[0026] The aerosol cap 1 is attached to an upper portion of the aerosol container 100. The aerosol cap 1 includes a connection tube 2 connected to the stem 102, a nozzle 3 configured to jet the contents, and a reaching distance extension structure 4 configured to extend a reaching distance of the contents jetted from the nozzle 3. The aerosol cap 1 may further include other members, such as a cover, an operation button, an operation lever, and a decorative member. The connection tube 2 and the operation button may be integral with each other, or the connection tube 2 and the cover may be integral with each other. The aerosol cap 1 may have a fitting portion or the like which is fitted into the upper portion of the aerosol container 100.

[0027] The connection tube 2 has a tubular shape extending in an up-down direction. The lower end of the connection tube 2 is fitted to the outside of the upper end portion of the stem 102. A connection path 2a extending from the stem 102 to the nozzle 3 in the up-down direction is formed inside the connection tube 2. A downstream end (lower end) of the connection path 2a is airtightly connected to the upper end of the stem 102.

[0028] The nozzle 3 has a tubular shape extending from an upper side portion of the connection tube 2 in the horizontal direction. More specifically, the nozzle 3 has a cylindrical shape, as shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 1, the outer diameter of the nozzle 3 is constant from the proximal end (upstream end in the jetting direction) to the distal end (downstream end in the jetting direction). The inner diameter of the nozzle 3 is also constant from the proximal end to the distal end.

[0029] The diameter of the nozzle 3 is not particularly limited, but if the diameter is too small, the force of the spray diminishes, and therefore such a diameter is not suitable for the present invention. The inner diameter of the distal end of the nozzle 3 is preferably 0.1 mm or more, more preferably 0.5 mm or more, even more preferably 1.0 mm or more. If the diameter of the nozzle is too larger, the spraying properties deteriorate. Thus, the inner diameter of the distal end of the nozzle 3 is preferably 10.0 mm or less, more preferably 5.0 mm or less.

[0030] The proximal end of the nozzle 3 is integral with the upper portion of the connection tube 2. A flow path 3a through which the contents flow is formed inside the nozzle 3. The upstream end of the flow path 3a is connected to the downstream end of the connection path 2a. The connection tube 2 and the nozzle 3 may be integrally molded by, for example, a resin material, or may be molded as different members and then integrated with each other by joining.

[0031] In this example, the connection tube 2 extends in the up-down direction, and the nozzle 3 extends in the horizontal direction, so that the connection path 2a and the flow path 3a intersect at a substantially right angle. However, the structure is not limited thereto, and the nozzle 3 may be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the connection tube 2. For example, the nozzle 3 may be inclined upward so that it is higher in the position toward the downstream side in the jetting direction, or the nozzle 3 may be inclined downward so that is lower in the position toward the downstream side in the jetting direction.

[0032] Although the downstream side of the nozzle 3 is an open end in this example, a nozzle chip for closing the downstream end of the nozzle 3, for example, may be provided so that the contents be sprayed via a jetting hole formed in the nozzle chip. In this case, the number of jetting holes formed in the nozzle chip may be one or more.

[0033] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the reaching distance extension structure 4 includes an outer cylinder portion 40. The outer cylinder portion 40 is made of a different member from the nozzle 3. The outer cylinder portion 40 is formed to cover at least the outer periphery of the downstream end of the nozzle 3 in the jetting direction. The outer cylinder portion 40 has a cylindrical shape as a whole. The outer cylinder portion 40 is positioned with respect to the nozzle 3 so that the axis of the outer cylinder portion 40 and the axis of the nozzle 3 coincide with each other. The dimension of the outer cylinder portion 40 in the axis direction is set to be shorter than the dimension of the nozzle 3 in the axis direction. With the outer cylinder portion 40 positioned with respect to the nozzle 3, the proximal end (the upstream end relative to the jetting direction of the nozzle 3) of the outer cylinder portion 40 is located closer to the distal end than the proximal end of the nozzle 3, i.e., located at an intermediate portion of the nozzle 3 in the jetting direction, and is open at the intermediate portion.

[0034] With the outer cylinder portion 40 positioned with respect to the nozzle 3, the distal end (the downstream end relative to the jetting direction of the nozzle 3) of the outer cylinder portion 40 is positioned further toward the downstream side in the jetting direction than the distal end of the nozzle 3.

[0035] In this example, the outer cylinder portion 40 is a combination of a first member 41 and a second member 42. The following description is made based on this configuration, but the configuration of the outer cylinder portion 40 is not limited thereto. For example, the outer cylinder portion 40 may be an integrally molded member. The outer cylinder portion 40 does not need to be a separate member from the nozzle 3, and part or the whole of the outer cylinder portion 40 may be integral with the nozzle 3.

[0036] The first member 41 and the second member 42 each have a cylindrical shape. The inner diameter of the first member 41 is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the nozzle 3, and an outside air introduction path 43 is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 3 and the inner peripheral surface of the first member 41.

[0037] The inner diameter of the first member 41 is set to be larger at a portion distal to an axial intermediate portion than at a portion proximal to the axial intermediate portion. Thus, a step portion 41a is formed in the axial intermediate portion of the inner peripheral surface of the first member 41. The step portion 41a of the first member 41 is fitted with the proximal end of the second member 42. This allows the determination of the relative positional relationship between the first member 41 and the second member 42 in the axis direction.

[0038] The outer diameter of the second member 42 is set to be substantially equal to the inner diameter of the portion distal to the axial intermediate portion of the first member 41. This allows the determination of the relative positional relationship between the second member 42 and the first member 41 in the radial direction, and in this state, the axis of the first member 41 coincides with the axis of the second member 42.

[0039] The distal end of the second member 42 protrudes from the distal end of the first member 41 in the axis direction (toward the downstream side in the jetting direction), and protrudes also from the distal end of the nozzle 3 toward the downstream side in the jetting direction. The inner peripheral surface of the second member 42 is provided with multiple support portions 44 for supporting the outer cylinder portion 40 on the nozzle 3. The support portions 44 protrude from the inner peripheral surface of the second member 42 toward the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 3, and are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the nozzle 3. The distal end surfaces of all the support portions 44 in the protruding direction abut on the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 3. This allows the determination of the relative positional relationship between the outer cylinder portion 40 and the nozzle 3 in the radial direction. In this embodiment, three support portions 44 are provided and arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, but the number of support portions 44 is not limited to this, and may be two, or four or more. The support portions 44 may be arranged at irregular intervals.

[0040] The inner peripheral surface of the second member 42 is provided with multiple positioning protrusions 45 on a side closer to the distal end than the support portions 44. The positioning protrusions 45 protrude radially inward further than the support portions 44, and the distal end surface of the first member 41 abuts on the upstream end surfaces of the positioning protrusions 45 in the jetting direction. This allows the determination of the relative positional relationship between the outer cylinder portion 40 and the nozzle 3 in the axis direction. The protrusion amount of each of the positioning protrusions 45 is set such that the positioning protrusions 45 do not overlap with the opening at the distal end of the nozzle 3 when the nozzle 3 is viewed from the distal end side. The number and positions of the positioning protrusions 45 may be the same as the number and positions of the support portions 44.

[0041] The support portions 44 and the positioning protrusions 45 are configured to fix the relative position of the outer cylinder portion 40 with respect to the nozzle 3. Thus, if a means for fixing the relative position of the outer cylinder portion 40 is additionally provided, the support portions 44 and the positioning protrusions 45 may be omitted.

[0042] A merging space 46 is formed downstream of the downstream end of the nozzle 3 in the jetting direction by the internal space of the second member 42 in the outer cylinder portion 40. The merging space 46 and the outside air introduction path 43 serve as part of the reaching distance extension structure 4. The outside air introduction path 43 extends along the outside of the nozzle 3, from a portion upstream of the downstream end of the nozzle 3 to the merging space 46, and guides the air outside the nozzle 3 to the merging space 46. In this example, since the outside air introduction path 43 is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 3 and the inner peripheral surface of the first member 41, the outside air introduction path 43 extends along the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 3 to the downstream end of the nozzle 3 in the jetting direction and communicates with the merging space 46.

[0043] The length of the merging space 46 in the axis direction is not particularly limited, and the lower limit thereof can be, for example, 1.0 mm or more, or 2.0 mm or more. The upper limit of the length of the merging space 46 in the axis direction can be 50.0 mm or less, preferably 10.0 mm or less.

[0044] In the cross section passing through the downstream end of the nozzle 3 in the jetting direction and orthogonal to the jetting direction, the cross-sectional area of the region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion 40 is set to be less than 12 times the cross-sectional area of the opening of the nozzle 3 (the cross-sectional area of the region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the nozzle 3). In this example, the cross section passing through the downstream end of the nozzle 3 in the jetting direction and orthogonal to the jetting direction corresponds to the cross section of the second member 42 orthogonal to its axis. Thus, the cross-sectional area of the region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the second member 42 is less than 12 times the cross-sectional area of the opening of the nozzle 3. The reason why the cross-sectional areas are set in this way will be described later.

[0045] With such a configuration, when the aerosol cap 1 is pushed down, the contents of the container body 101 are jetted from the distal end of the nozzle 3 toward the merging space 46 due to the pressure of the propellant. Thus, an air flow toward the distal end of the outer cylinder portion 40 is generated in the merging space 46, and the air (outside air) in the outside air introduction path 43 is drawn into the merging space 46 by the air flow. Therefore, the contents jetted from the nozzle 3 and the outside air introduced through the outside air introduction path 43 are merged in the merging space 46 and jetted from the distal end of the outer cylinder portion 40. This increases the force of jetting as compared to the case where the outside air is not mixed, making it possible to extend the reaching distance of the contents.

[0046] The outside air introduction path 43 is parallel to the axis of the nozzle 3 in the cross section (for example, FIG. 5) passing through the axis of the nozzle 3. Therefore, the outside air introduced through the outside air introduction path 43 is introduced into the merging space 46 in a direction substantially parallel to the contents jetted from the nozzle 3. This minimizes the turbulence of the air flow that occurs when the contents and the outside air are merged in the merging space 46, thereby making it possible to further extend the reaching distance of the contents. In other words, the outside air introduction path 43 is cylindrically shaped, surrounding the nozzle 3. Thus, the outside air introduced through the outside air introduction path 43 is introduced into the merging space 46, surrounding the contents jetted from the nozzle 3 from radially outside. Since the contents are jetted from the distal end of the outer cylinder portion 40 with the flow of the contents surrounded by the flow of the outside air, it is less likely that the flow of the contents is disturbed even after the jetting, making it possible to further extend the reaching distance of the contents.

[0047] The configuration of the outside air introduction path 43 is not limited thereto and can be appropriately changed. For example, the outside air introduction path 43 is formed to be slightly inclined with respect to the axis of the nozzle 3 in the cross section passing through the axis of the nozzle 3. If the angle formed by the outside air introduction path 43 and the axis of the nozzle 3 is small, the air flow is not greatly disturbed when the contents and the outside air are merged in the merging space 46. In particular, it is preferable that, in the cross section passing through the axis of the nozzle 3, the outside air introduction path 43 inclines such that the outside air flowing through the outside air introduction path 43 gradually approaches the axis of the nozzle 3 as it moves downstream, because the contents and the outside air merge smoothly. In this case, in the cross section passing through the axis of the nozzle 3, the angle formed between the extension line of the outside air introduction path 43 and the axis of the nozzle 3 is preferably 10° or less, more preferably 5° or less.

[0048] The outside air introduction path 43 is not limited to a cylindrical shape that surrounds the nozzle 3, but may be formed of multiple pipe lines formed substantially parallel to the nozzle 3, for example.[Examples]

[0049] Next, examples of the present invention will be described. The present invention is not limited to the following examples.(Reaching Distance Confirmation Test)

[0050] A reaching distance confirmation test for the contents, using an aerosol cap 1 having the configuration described above, will be described. The aerosol container 100 contains, as its contents, kerosene as an aerosol stock solution and LP gas as a propellant. The liquid volume ratio between the aerosol stock solution and the propellant, i.e., the liquid-gas ratio was 3:7. The kerosene contained in the aerosol stock solution is one of solvents generally used in an insecticide aerosol and the like. Similar test results to those of this test can be obtained even if effective amounts of an insecticide, insect repellent, deodorant, bactericide, air refresher, and the like are mixed into the aerosol stock solution.

[0051] The propellant is not limited to LP gas, and similar test results can be obtained even if the propellant is dimethyl ether, a mixture of LP gas and dimethyl ether, or a mixture of LP gas and fluorine-based liquefied gas or the like. Similar test results can be obtained as long as the liquid-gas ratio is from 2:8 to 4:6. If the liquid-gas ratio is out of the above range, the results may be slightly different from those of this test; however, the effect of the present invention, i.e., extending the reaching distance, is obtainable. In other words, the present invention is implemented in a very wide range of the liquid-gas ratios. As mentioned above, the aerosol stock solution may be omitted, i.e., the liquid-gas ratio may be 0: 10.

[0052] The test site was a windless thermostatic chamber having a sufficient space, and the air temperature was set at 25°C. A table having a height of 90 cm (90 cm height from the floor surface of the windless thermostatic chamber) was placed in the windless thermostatic chamber. On this table, aerosol products equipped with the aerosol caps of Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Example were placed, and each aerosol product was operated for jetting.

[0053] In the windless thermostatic chamber, marks were placed at a height of 1 m from the floor surface. The marks were placed at distances of 1 m, 2 m, 3 m, 4 m, and 5 m from the aerosol caps. The mist jetted from the aerosol cap was visually observed, and whether or not the mist had passed each of the marks was evaluated by videography. The aerosol caps of Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Example were each tested three times, and the average reaching distance was determined.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the nozzle 3 and the reaching distance extension structure 4 according to Examples 1 to 7. In Examples 1 to 7, the nozzle 3 has an outer diameter of 4.6 mm and an inner diameter of 3.0 mm; the length L1 of the outside air introduction path 43 along the axis is 15 mm; and the length L2 of the merging space 46 along the axis is 3.5 mm. The merging space 46 of Example 1 has a diameter D1 of 6.0 mm. The merging space 46 of Example 2 has a diameter D1 of 6.3 mm. The merging space 46 of Example 3 has a diameter D1 of 6.6 mm. The merging space 46 of Example 4 has a diameter D1 of 7.0 mm. The merging space 46 of Example 5 has a diameter D1 of 8.0 mm. The merging space 46 of Example 6 has a diameter D1 of 10.0 mm. The merging space 46 of Example 7 has a diameter D1 of 12.0 mm.

[0055] FIG. 6 shows a nozzle 30 of Comparative Example. The nozzle 30 has a straight pipe shape having an outer diameter of 4.6 mm and an inner diameter of 3.0 mm, and does not have a reaching distance extension structure. The length of the nozzle 30 of Comparative Example is the same as the length of the nozzle 3 of Examples 1 to 7.

[0056] The average reaching distance of Example 1 was 3.7 m. The average reaching distance of Example 2 was 3.3 m. The average reaching distance of Example 3 was 4.0 m. The average reaching distance of Example 4 was 3.3 m. The average reaching distance of Example 5 was 3.3 m. The average reaching distance of Example 6 was 3.3 m. The average reaching distance of Example 7 was 2.7 m. On the other hand, the average reaching distance of Comparative Example was 2.3 m. As observed, the provision of the reaching distance extension structure 4 increases the reaching distance of the contents, as compared to the case without the reaching distance extension structure 4 (Comparative Example). The average reaching distance of 3 m or more can be ensured, particularly when the diameter D1 of the merging space 46 is set to 10.0 mm or less.

[0057] When the diameter D1 is 10.0 mm as described above (Example 6), the cross-sectional area of the merging space 46 in a cross section passing through the distal end of the nozzle 3 and orthogonal to the axis of the nozzle 3 (the cross-sectional area of a region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion 40) is 78.5 mm 2< . The cross-sectional area of the opening of the nozzle 3 having an inner diameter of 3.0 mm used in Examples (the cross-sectional area of a region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the nozzle 3) is 7.06 mm 2< . It is known that the effect of a fluid acts on the cross-sectional area. Thus, it is considered that the effect of extending the reaching distance of a fluid correlates with the cross-sectional area. In Example 6, the ratio between the cross-sectional area of the region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion 40 and the cross-sectional area of the opening of the nozzle 3 is calculated as 78.5 mm 2< / 7.06 mm 2< ≈ 11.1. At this ratio, a sufficient effect of extending the reaching distance is obtained as described above. If the cross-sectional area of the region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion 40 is less than 12 times the cross-sectional area of the opening of the nozzle 3, the effect of extending the reaching distance is particularly enhanced.

[0058] Next, Examples 8 to 10 will be described. FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol cap 1 according to Examples 8 to 10. Examples 8 to 10 are examples including an "enlarged diameter portion" at the downstream end of the merging space 46 in the jetting direction. In other words, in Examples 8 to 10, the diameter D1 of the downstream end of the merging space 46 is larger than the diameter D2 of the outside air introduction path 43. Specifically, in Example 8, the diameter D1 of the downstream end of the merging space 46 is 8.0 mm, and the diameter D2 of the outside air introduction path 43 is 6.0 mm. In Example 9, the diameter D1 of the downstream end of the merging space 46 is 9.0 mm, and the diameter D2 of the outside air introduction path 43 is 7.0 mm. In Example 10, the diameter D1 of the downstream end of the merging space 46 is 10.0 mm, and the diameter D2 of the outside air introduction path 43 is 8.0 mm.

[0059] The average reaching distance of Example 8 was 3.7 m. The average reaching distance of Example 9 was 3.0 m. The average reaching distance of Example 10 was 3.0 m. Since all of them are 3.0 m or more, it is found that the reaching distance of the contents is longer than that of Comparative Example.

[0060] In view of the above, it is found that the effect of extending the reaching distance can be obtained in any of Examples, although there is a slight difference depending on the presence or absence of the "enlarged diameter portion."

[0061] Next, the case where a "reduced diameter portion" is provided at the downstream end of the merging space 46 in the jetting direction, i.e., the case where the diameter D1 of the downstream end of the merging space 46 is smaller than the diameter D2 of the outside air introduction path 43 will be described (not shown). To increase the jetting force of the contents, commonly used nozzles, such as those for compressed air or liquids, may have a smaller diameter at the downstream end to achieve higher flow velocity. In the present invention as well, it is considered that a "reduced diameter portion" provided at the downstream end of the merging space 46 in the jetting direction can increase the jetting force and extend the reaching distance. However, a reduced diameter portion needs to have a structure that prevents dripping. Specifically, in the case of an aerosol containing a large amount of aerosol stock solution, a reduced diameter portion large in size may cause the contents to collide with the reduced diameter portion, leading to droplet formation and resulting in "dripping."

[0062] To confirm this, a jetting test was performed using the aerosol cap having a reduced diameter portion, at the liquid-gas ratio (3:7) of Examples, and the result is the contents collided with the reduced diameter portion, leading to droplet formation and resulting in "dripping." Thus, such an aerosol cap was impractical as an aerosol product. In light of the above, to prevent "dripping," the diameter D1 of the downstream end of the merging space 46 is preferably larger than the diameter D2 of the outside air introduction path 43 at the liquid-gas ratio of Examples.

[0063] On the other hand, it was confirmed that "dripping" tended to be less likely to occur by decreasing the mixing ratio of the aerosol stock solution and increasing the mixing ratio of the propellant. In particular, when the aerosol stock solution was omitted and only the propellant was used, "dripping" did not occur and the jetting property was also good even if the reduced diameter portion was provided. If the mixing ratio of the aerosol stock solution is low as in this case, the reduced diameter portion can be formed to an extent that prevents dripping. The reduced diameter portion designed with consideration of preventing dripping can propel the contents forcefully over a long distance. The liquid-gas ratio in the case of providing the reduced diameter portion is not particularly limited, but is preferably in the range of 2:8 to 0:10.(Simulation Results)

[0064] Next, simulation results of CFD analysis will be described. FIG. 8 shows simulation results of the flow velocity when the contents of Comparative Example and Example 1 were jetted. In FIG. 8, each white rectangle on the left side is an aerosol container 100. For Comparative Example, a three-dimensional model was prepared in which the aerosol container 100 was equipped with an nozzle 30, such as one shown in FIG. 6, at the upper portion. For Example 1, a three-dimensional model was prepared in which the aerosol container 100 was equipped with an nozzle 30, such as one shown in FIG. 5, at the upper portion. Simulations were performed using these models.

[0065] In FIG. 8, the whiter the portion, the higher the flow velocity. In Example 1, the white portion extends more smoothly compared to Comparative Example, indicating a reduction in turbulence of the jetting flow. In addition, in Example 1, the white portion extends farther than in Comparative Example, indicating that the contents can be jetted forcefully over a longer distance.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a simulation result of the flow velocity in the vicinity of the distal end of the nozzle 30 according to Comparative Example. FIG. 10 shows simulation results of the flow velocity in the vicinity of the distal end of the nozzle 3 according to Examples 1 and 5. In Examples 1 and 5, it is observed that the flow of air is generated in the outside air introduction path 43, meaning that the outside air flows toward the merging space 4. It is also observed that the flow of the contents is not greatly disturbed even after the contents jetted from the nozzle 3 and the outside air are mixed. The flow velocity of the outside air in the outside air introduction path 43 is higher in Example 1 than in Example 5.

[0067] From these simulation results, it can be inferred that the effect of extending the reaching distance of the contents by the aerosol cap 1 of this example is due to the combined effects of reduced turbulence of the jetting flow and increased jetting force.(Effects and Advantages)

[0068] As described above, according to this embodiment, the contents flow through the nozzle 3 of the aerosol cap 1 and reach the merging space 46. On the other hand, air (outside air) outside the nozzle 3 flows through the outside air introduction path 43 and reaches the merging space 46. Since the contents are jetted forcefully by the propellant in the merging space 46, the outside air in the outside air introduction path 43 is drawn into the merging space 46 by the force and merges with the contents and the propellant. This increases the force of the contents jetted from the aerosol cap 1, thereby extending the reaching distance of the contents compared to the case where no outside air is mixed.

[0069] The outside air introduction path 43 of this embodiment introduces outside air into the merging space 46 in a direction substantially parallel to the jetting direction of the contents. This can suitably provide an effect of decreasing turbulence of the air flow and increasing the force of the spray.

[0070] The contents may include an insecticidal component. Examples of the insecticidal component include a pyrethroid-based component, an organic phosphorus-based component, a carbamate-based component, a neonicotinoid-based component, an essential oil, etc. Examples of the pyrethroid-based component include d-T80-phthaluthrin, d-T80-resmethrin, cyfluthrin, β-cyfluthrin, tralomethrin, momfluorothrin, phenothrin, cyphenothrin, imiprothrin, transfluthrin, metofluthrin, profluthrin, empenthrin, terallethrin, permethrin, cypermethrin, dimefluthrin, tetramethrin, etofenprox, bifenthrin, silafluofen, allethrin, prallethrin, furamethrin, pyrethrins, etc. Examples of the organic phosphorus-based component include acephate, fenitrothion, dichlorvos, chlorpyrifos-methyl, diazinon, fenthion, etc. Examples of the carbamate-based component include carbaryl, propoxur, etc. Examples of the essential oil include peppermint oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil, orange oil, fennel oil, cinnamon oil, clove oil, turpentine oil, eucalyptus oil, Japanese cypress oil, Japanese cedar oil, patchouli oil, sandalwood oil, camphor oil, jasmine oil, neroli oil, bergamot oil, petitgrain oil, lemon oil, lemongrass oil, cinnamon oil, citronella oil, geranium oil, copaiba oil, ginger oil, citral, L-menthol, citronelly acetate, cinnamic aldehyde, terpineol, nonyl alcohol, cis-Jasmone, limonene, linalool, 1,8-cineol, geraniol, α-pinene, p-menthane-3,8-diol, eugenol, menthyl acetate, thymol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl salicylate, etc. Examples of the neonicotinoid-based component include acetamiprid, thiamethoxam, imidacloprid, dinotefuran, etc. Examples of the other insecticidal components include metoxadiazone, fipronil, amidoflumet, broflanilide, etc. The contents may include a solvent that dissolves an insecticidal component. Examples of the solvent include a hydrocarbon-based solvent, an ether-based solvent, an ester-based solvent, an alcohol-based solvent, a fluorine-based solvent, water, etc. Examples of the hydrocarbon-based solvent include xylene, toluene, alkyl naphthalene, phenyl xylylethane, kerosene, light oil, hexane, cyclohexane, etc. Examples of the ether-based solvent include diethyl ether, ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, tetrahydrofuran, dioxane, etc. Examples of the ester-based solvent include isopropyl myristate, etc. Examples of the alcohol-based solvent include ethanol, isopropanol, benzyl alcohol, ethylene glycol, etc. Examples of the fluorine-based solvent include hydrofluoroolefin (HFO), etc. Examples of water include tap water, ion exchange water, distilled water, filtered water, sterilized water, groundwater, etc.(Insecticidal Test Example 1)

[0071] Test insects used in an insecticidal test example 1 were female adults of house flies (Musca domestica). Ten test insects were used in one test. The test site was a windless room with 16 tatami mats in size. The air temperature was adjusted to 26°C ± 1°C, and the humidity was adjusted to 50% ± 20%.

[0072] The aerosol cap was the same as that used in the reaching distance confirmation test. As a test sample, an aerosol stock solution contained 0.1 w / w% d-T80-phthaluthrin as an active ingredient; the aerosol stock solution was kerosene, and the propellant was LPG 0.28. The liquid-gas ratio of the test sample was 3:7 (volume ratio).

[0073] The test insects were placed in a glass ring with a diameter of 90 mm, and the glass ring was covered with a nylon mesh and a rubber band so that the test insects would not escape. The glass ring containing the test insects was placed at a position 3 m away from a jetting port of an aerosol sprayer. The glass ring was placed so that the test insects were positioned at the same height as the jetting port. The height of the glass ring from the floor surface was about 1.1 m. The jetting time for a single operation of jetting the test sample from the aerosol sprayer was set to 3 seconds. The number of knocked-down (stunned) test insects was counted for a predetermined period immediately after jetting the test sample from the aerosol sprayer. The same test was repeated four times, and KT50 (50% knocked-down time) was calculated from the results. The results are shown in Table 1. The "inlet diameter" is an opening diameter of the upstream end of the first member 41. The outer cylinder portion 40 is supported on the nozzle 3 by three support portions 44. [Table 1]Example 1Example 2Example 3Comparative ExampleInlet Diameter (mm)6.36.36.3-D1 (mm)6.06.36.6-L2 (mm)3.53.53.5-KT50 (sec)70.5361.9370.0579.58 (Insecticidal Test Example 2)

[0074] Test insects used in an insecticidal test example 2 were the same as those in the insecticidal test example 1 Ten test insects were used in one test. The test site was an inside of a windless 40-feet high cube container for transportation (inside dimensions: 12.0 m in depth × 2.3 m in width × 2.7 m in height). The air temperature was adjusted to 30°C ± 1°C, and the humidity was adjusted to 60% ± 10%.

[0075] The aerosol cap was the same as that used in the reaching distance confirmation test. As a test sample, an aerosol stock solution contained 4 w / w% d-T80-phthaluthrin and 0.5 w / w% β-cyfluthrin as active ingredients; the aerosol stock solution was made of kerosene and trace amounts of three other components, and the propellant was LPG 0.40. The liquid-gas ratio of the test sample was 3:7 (volume ratio).

[0076] The test insects were placed in a glass ring with a diameter of 90 mm, and the glass ring was covered with a nylon mesh and a rubber band so that the test insects would not escape. The glass ring containing the test insects was placed at a position 6 m away from a jetting port of an aerosol sprayer. The glass ring was placed so that the test insects were positioned at the same height as the jetting port. The height of the glass ring from the floor surface was about 1.1 m. The jetting time for a single operation of jetting the test sample from the aerosol sprayer was set to 2 seconds. The number of knocked-down test insects was counted for a predetermined period immediately after jetting the test sample from the aerosol sprayer. The same test was repeated five times, and the KT50 was calculated from the results. The results are shown in Table 2. The outer cylinder portion 40 is supported on the nozzle 3 by three support portions 44. [Table 2]Example 1Example 2Example 3Example 4Comparative ExampleInlet Diameter (mm)6.36.36.36.3-D1 (mm)6.06.36.67.0-L2 (mm)3.53.53.53.5-KT50 (sec)40.7527.4020.8037.4039.17 (Insecticidal Test Example 3)

[0077] Test insects used in an insecticidal test example 3 were female adults of yellow hornets (Vespa simillima). One test insect was used in one test. The test site was an inside of a windless 40-feet high cube container for transportation (inside dimensions: 12.0 m in depth × 2.3 m in width × 2.7 m in height). The air temperature was adjusted to 30°C ± 1°C, and the humidity was adjusted to 60% ± 10%.

[0078] The aerosol cap was the same as that used in the reaching distance confirmation test. As a test sample, an aerosol stock solution contained 4 w / w% d-T80-phthaluthrin and 0.5 w / w% β-cyfluthrin as active ingredients; the aerosol stock solution was made of kerosene and trace amounts of three other components, and the propellant was LPG 0.40. The liquid-gas ratio of the test sample was 3:7 (volume ratio).

[0079] The test insect was placed in a glass ring with a diameter of 90 mm, and the glass ring was covered with a wire net cover and cellophane tape so that the test insect would not escape. The glass ring containing the test insect was placed at a position 6 m away from a jetting port of an aerosol sprayer. The glass ring was placed so that the test insect was positioned at the same height as the jetting port. The height of the glass ring from the floor surface was about 1.1 m. The jetting time for a single operation of jetting the test sample from the aerosol sprayer was set to 2 seconds. The time from immediately after jetting the test sample from the aerosol sprayer until the test insect was knocked down was measured. The same test was repeated five times, and an average knocked-down time was calculated from the results. The results are shown in Table 3. The outer cylinder portion 40 is supported on the nozzle 3 by three support portions 44. [Table 3]Example 3Comparative ExampleInlet Diameter (mm)6.3-D1 (mm)6.6-L2 (mm)3.5-Average Knocked-Down Time (sec)32.854.0

[0080] As can be seen from above, the aerosol cap and the aerosol product are effective in exterminating flying pests such as house flies and yellow hornets. Having the extermination effect on house flies and yellow hornets can be interpreted as having the extermination effect on flying pests such as mosquitoes, horseflies, and moths. The distances to the target pests are not limited to 3 m and 6 m. The extermination effect is effective at distances from short (e.g., about 30 cm) to long (e.g., about 6 m). The propellant is not limited to LPG 0.28 and LPG 0.40, and the same extermination effect is obtainable even when other propellants (dimethyl ether) are used. The active ingredient is not limited to d-T80-phthaluthrin, and other active ingredients may be used. The extermination effect is effective even when other active ingredients are used, at distances from short (e.g., about 30 cm) to long (e.g., about 6 m). The concentration of the active ingredient is not limited to 0.1%. For example, the extermination effect is effective at distances from short (e.g., about 30 cm) to long (e.g., about 6 m) as long as the concentration is in the range from 0.01% to 5%, inclusive, for example. The solvent is not limited to kerosene, and a solvent capable of dissolving the active ingredient may be used. The extermination effect is effective even when other solvents are used, at distances from short (e.g., about 30 cm) to long (e.g., about 6 m).

[0081] The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative in all respects and should not be interpreted in a limited manner. Further, all modifications and changes which come within the meaning and scope of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced in the scope of the present invention.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0082] As can be seen from above, the aerosol cap and the aerosol product according to the present disclosure can be used in jetting a chemical such as an insecticide and an insect repellent.DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS

[0083] 1Aerosol Cap 3Nozzle 4Reaching Distance Extension Structure 40Outer Cylinder Portion 43Merging Space 44Support Portion 46Outside Air Introduction Path 100Aerosol Container AAerosol Product

Claims

1. An aerosol cap to be attached to an aerosol container containing contents which at least includes a propellant including a liquefied gas, the aerosol cap comprising: a nozzle from which the contents are jetted; and a reaching distance extension structure configured to extend a reaching distance of the contents jetted from the nozzle, the reaching distance extension structure including: a merging space formed downstream of a downstream end of the nozzle in a jetting direction; and an outside air introduction path that extends along an outside of the nozzle, from a portion upstream of the downstream end of the nozzle to the merging space, and guides air outside the nozzle to the merging space.

2. The aerosol cap of claim 1, wherein the outside air introduction path is configured to introduce the outside air into the merging space in a direction substantially parallel to the jetting direction of the contents.

3. The aerosol cap of claim 2, wherein the nozzle has a tubular shape, the reaching distance extension structure includes an outer cylinder portion covering at least an outer periphery of the downstream end of the nozzle in the jetting direction, and the outside air introduction path is formed between an outer peripheral surface of the nozzle and an inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion.

4. The aerosol cap of claim 3, wherein an upstream end of the outer cylinder portion in an air flow direction is located at an intermediate portion of the nozzle in the jetting direction and is open at the intermediate portion, and the outside air introduction path extends to the downstream end in the jetting direction along the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle.

5. The aerosol cap of claim 3, wherein in a cross section passing through the downstream end of the nozzle in the jetting direction and orthogonal to the jetting direction, a cross-sectional area of a region surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder portion is less than 12 times a cross-sectional area of an opening of the nozzle.

6. An aerosol product comprising: the aerosol cap of claim 1; and an aerosol container to which the aerosol cap is attached.

7. The aerosol product of claim 6, wherein the contents include an insecticidal component.

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