Source bottle and refillable dispenser set

Abstract

Assembly comprising a source bottle (S) and a refillable dispenser (N1), the source bottle (S) comprising a body (S1) and a one-piece threaded neck (S2), the refillable dispenser (N1) comprising a dispensing head (T) and a filling and venting system (1), the refillable dispenser (N1) comprising a reservoir (R), characterized in that the refillable dispenser (N1) incorporates a threaded sleeve (111) suitable for screwing onto the threaded neck (S2), the filling and venting system (1) being then connected to the body (S1), so that the fluid product from the source bottle (S) can flow by gravity 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). "Figure for the abridged version: Figure 2c"

Description

Title of the invention: Assembly of source bottle and refillable dispenser

[0001] The present invention relates to a dispensing assembly comprising a source bottle and a refillable dispenser, for the purpose of refilling the refillable liquid product dispenser using the source bottle. The invention also relates to a refilling method implementing the dispensing assembly of the invention. The preferred field of application for the present invention is that of perfumery, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals. This type of refillable dispenser is often referred to as a "portable" dispenser. It generally has a small reservoir capacity of approximately 10 ml at most and is equipped with a pump activated by pressing a button. It also includes a refilling valve at its lower end, opposite the button.

[0002] 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 that vents air from the dispenser's reservoir to the outside. The drawback is that the fluid product at the end of the filling process is also vented through the vent valve, which contaminates the refillable dispenser and the source bottle. This is unacceptable.

[0003] We also know of document EP2500277A1, which describes a dispensing assembly in which the source bottle is equipped with a flow-crossing filling and venting system. The refillable dispenser does not have a filling valve: its dispensing 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, therefore, two unscrewing and two screwing operations are required. This is tedious and results in the loss of liquid product.

[0004] We also know of document EP2719466, 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. More precisely, a socket is permanently mounted on the unthreaded neck of the source bottle. Furthermore, 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 it is tilted or overturned. This is unacceptable.

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

[0006] To this end, 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 equipped with a push button 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,

[0007] characterized in that the refillable dispenser incorporates a threaded sleeve suitable for screwing onto the threaded neck of the source bottle, the filling and venting system then being connected to the body, so 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 so that the air from the reservoir can simultaneously flow from the reservoir into the source bottle through the filling and venting system.

[0008] The threaded sleeve is permanently connected to the refillable dispenser, so that it is inseparable from it. Advantageously, the threaded sleeve is an integral and inseparable part of the filling and venting system, which is permanently mounted on the tank.

[0009] The spirit of the invention is to integrate all the functionalities necessary for flow crossing and connection in the refillable dispenser, so that it can be screwed onto a standard bottle, in particular made of glass, which can be made in one piece with a threaded neck.

[0010] According to another feature of the invention, the reservoir may include a glass tube defining two openings, the filling and venting system being fixedly mounted on one opening of the glass tube, while the distribution head is fixedly mounted on the other opening of the glass tube.

[0011] Initially, the source bottle can be fitted with a dispensing head screwed removably onto the threaded neck, to be replaced by the refillable dispenser.

[0012] According to another particularly interesting aspect of the invention, the filling and venting system may include an actuation valve, which is manually actuated by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis X between a closed state and an open state. This means that it is a dedicated or induced manipulation of The user will switch the valve between its closed and open states. In document EP2719466, gravity performs this switch, and the valve is unlocked before the refillable dispenser is connected to the source bottle.

[0013] Advantageously, the controllable valve comprises a valve seat and a movable valve member, the valve seat being fixed in movement to the threaded sleeve.

[0014] According to another aspect, the filling and venting system may include a fixed part mounted on the tank and a movable part capable of moving axially relative to the fixed part over a determined axial stroke, generating the opening, respectively the closing, of the controllable valve.

[0015] According to a first embodiment, the threaded sleeve can be formed by the moving part, the moving valve element being a free element (a ball, for example) which is pressed against the valve seat by the fixed part in the closed state and is free to detach from the valve seat in the open position. Advantageously, the moving part forms a flow crossover conduit, one end edge of which forms the valve seat. The threaded sleeve and the flow crossover conduit can be made in two separate parts or as a single unit.

[0016] Alternatively, the free element can be replaced by a sealing element attached to the fixed part and which cooperates with the valve seat formed by the moving part.

[0017] According to a second embodiment, the threaded sleeve can be formed by the fixed part, the moving valve element being formed by the moving part and held against the valve seat by a return spring in the closed state and is released from the valve seat against the force exerted by the return spring in the open position, by axial bearing of the moving part on the threaded neck, when the threaded sleeve is screwed onto the threaded neck. Advantageously, the moving part forms a flow crossover conduit, on which the moving valve element is fixedly mounted.

[0018] According to a third embodiment, the fixed part and the moving part rotate relative to each other, the fixed part and the moving part together defining a cam system capable of generating a relative axial movement about the longitudinal axis of the fixed part with respect to the moving part by the relative rotation of the fixed part with respect to the moving part. This type of cam system makes it possible to transform a rotation, generally exerted by a user on a rotating actuating element, into a displacement or axial movement of another element, in order to switch between a passive state and an active state.

[0019] Advantageously, the cam system comprises an inclined helical ramp formed by one of the fixed and moving parts and a cam formed by the other of the fixed and moving parts, the cam sliding along the inclined helical ramp during the relative rotation of the fixed part with respect to the moving part. The term "ramp" can be replaced by thread, slope, edge, or rim. rib, groove, etc. The term "cam" can be replaced by profile, lug, tab, slider, etc.

[0020] According to another aspect of this third embodiment, a spring can act between the fixed part and the moving part so as to exert pressure on the fixed part towards the moving valve element to press it against its valve seat. The cam system, in one direction of rotation, moves the fixed part away from the moving valve element so that it can lift off its valve seat, corresponding to the open state of the controllable valve. In the other direction of rotation, it pushes the moving valve element 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 spring-assisted closing of the controllable valve, which exerts pressure on the fixed part against the moving valve element to press it against its valve seat.

[0021] According to another feature of this third embodiment, the moving part, which already forms the threaded sleeve and the valve seat, also forms a sliding barrel. The fixed part forms a lip duct that slides securely within the sliding barrel. The lip duct advantageously forms a push pin designed to contact the moving valve element and push it onto its valve seat. The lip duct is located downstream of the controllable valve and connects the reservoir of the refillable dispenser to the controllable valve. By rotating the fixed part relative to the moving part, or vice versa, the cam system axially displaces the fixed part relative to the moving part, resulting in the sliding of the lip duct of the fixed part within the sliding barrel of the moving part.

[0022] Advantageously, the moving part can also form an inlet tube upstream of the valve seat inside the threaded sleeve, the inlet tube forming an axial opening and a lateral opening, the lateral opening being advantageously located near the valve seat. The fluid product from the source bottle will flow from top to bottom through the lateral opening, while the air from the refillable dispenser will flow from bottom to top through the axial opening.

[0023] The flow crossing duct can be in the form of a cylindrical tube provided with an oblique flow separation wall.

[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 formed as a single piece with the body, the source bottle being provided with a dispensing head screwed removably onto the threaded neck, the refillable dispenser defining a longitudinal axis X and comprising at an upper end a dispensing head equipped consisting of a push button and, at one 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 suitable for screwing onto the threaded neck of the source bottle,

[0025] the filling process comprising the following successive steps: a- unscrew the dispensing head from the threaded neck, b- screw the refillable dispenser onto the threaded neck, c- turn the assembly thus formed up to place the source bottle above the refillable dispenser, d- allow the fluid product from the source bottle to flow by gravity into the reservoir through the filling and venting system, and allow the air from the reservoir to flow simultaneously from the reservoir into the source bottle through the filling and venting system, e- turn the assembly thus formed up again to place the refillable dispenser above the source bottle, f- unscrew the refillable dispenser onto the threaded neck, and g- optionally screw the dispensing head back onto the threaded neck.

[0026] According to a first embodiment, the filling and venting system comprises an operable 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 operation to open the valve.

[0027] According to a second embodiment, the filling and venting system includes an operable valve, which is manually actuated by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis X between a closed 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 opens the valve and unscrewing it closes the valve.

[0028] The invention will now be described more fully, with reference to the accompanying drawings, giving by way of non-limiting examples, two embodiments of the invention.

[0029] In the figures:

[0030] [Fig.1a] Fig.1a is a schematic side view of a source bottle with its dispensing head removed,

[0031] [Fig.lb] [Fig.lb] is a partially transparent schematic side view of a refillable dispenser according to the invention,

[0032] [Fig. 2a] Fig. 2a is an exploded cross-sectional view of a filling system and ventilation according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0033] [Fig. 2b] Fig. 2b is a view similar to that of Fig. 2a in the assembled state and in closed position

[0034] [Fig. 2c] [Fig. 2c] is a similar view to that of [Fig. 2b] in reverse in position open,

[0035] [Fig. 3a] Figures 3a and 3b are perspective views of the filling system and ventilation of figures 2a to 2c, respectively in closed and open positions,

[0036] [Fig.3b] cf [Fig.3a]

[0037] [Fig. 4a] 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,

[0038] [Fig.4b] cf [Fig.4a]

[0039] [Fig.4c] cf [Fig.4a]

[0040] [Fig. 5a] 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,

[0041] [Fig.5b] cf [Fig.5a]

[0042] [Fig.5c] cf [Fig.5a]

[0043] [Fig. 6a] 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,

[0044] [Fig.6b] cf [Fig.6a]

[0045] [Fig.6c] cf [Fig.6a]

[0046] [Fig. 7a] Figures 7a and 7b are views respectively similar to Figures 3a and 3b for this second embodiment of the invention,

[0047] [Fig.7b] cf [Fig.7a]

[0048] [Fig. 8a] Figures 8a, 8b and 8c are views respectively similar to views 5a, 5b and 5c, in order to illustrate the different filling stages of the "nomadic" dispenser incorporating a filling and venting system according to the second embodiment of the invention, and

[0049] [Fig.8b] cf [Fig.8a]

[0050] [Fig.8c] cf [Fig.8a]

[0051] [Fig.9] Fig.9 is a vertical cross-sectional view through a a refillable dispenser incorporating a filling and venting system according to a third embodiment of the invention,

[0052] [Fig. 10a] The [Fig. 10a] is an exploded perspective cut-out view of the filling and venting system according to the third embodiment of the invention,

[0053] [Fig. 10b] Fig. 10b is a perspective view of part of the filling and venting system according to the third embodiment,

[0054] [Fig. 1a] Figures 1a and 11b are enlarged vertical cross-sectional views through the filling and venting system according to the third embodiment, respectively in the closed and open positions, and

[0055] [Fig. 11b] see [Fig.lia]

[0056] [Fig. 12a] 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.

[0057] [Fig. 12b] see [Fig. 12a]

[0058] [Fig. 12c] see [Fig. 12a]

[0059] [Fig.l2d] cf [Fig. 12a]

[0060] [Fig. 12e] see [Fig. 12a]

[0061] [Fig.l2f] cf [Fig.l2a]

[0062] We will first refer to figures 1a and 1b to succinctly describe the structure of a rechargeable or "nomadic" dispenser and a source bottle S. The association of these two entities constitutes the distribution 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.

[0063] The source bottle S can have a completely conventional overall design in the fields of perfumery, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals. The source bottle S can be limited to a simple one-piece glass bottle consisting of a body intended to contain the fluid product and a threaded neck that protrudes above the body. Of course, the source bottle S can also be equipped with accessories that do not alter the one-piece construction of the body and the threaded neck.

[0064] The source bottle S can, for example, be equipped with a dispensing head S4, which may include a pump S41 topped with a push button S42 and removably mounted on the threaded neck S2 by means of a threaded ring S43. In [Fig. 1a], the rounded arrow indicates that the dispensing head S4 can be removed by rotation in an unscrewing motion. Thus, the source bottle S can be reduced to the body S1 with its integrated threaded neck S2. The source bottle S can be made of any suitable material, and advantageously of glass. The threaded neck S2 can conform to the standard dimensions in the perfume and cosmetics industry.

[0065] The "nomadic" refillable dispenser is available in two embodiments according to the invention. In [Fig. 1b], the "nomadic" refillable dispenser corresponds interchangeably to the first or second embodiment; therefore, it is designated by NI for the first embodiment and by N2 for the second embodiment. The refillable dispenser first comprises a reservoir R intended to contain a fluid product. At its upper end, the tank R is provided with a dispensing head T which may include a pump P fitted with a plunger T1 and permanently or irremovably mounted on the tank R by means of a retaining ring T2. At its lower end, the tank 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 and 2 will be described in detail below.

[0066] Optionally, the refillable dispenser NI, N2 can be provided with an upper cover Cl covering the dispensing head T and a lower cover C2 covering the filling and venting system 1, 2.

[0067] Very generally, this refillable NI, N2 dispenser 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.

[0068] 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 distribution head T and the other receiving the filling and venting system 1, 2.

[0069] According to the invention, the filling and venting system 1, 2 is integrated into the refillable dispenser NI, N2, and is therefore inseparable from it. 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 portable dispenser and mount it on the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S.

[0070] With reference to Figures 2a, 2b, and 2c, the filling and venting system 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention can be seen. This filling and venting system 1 comprises a fixed part 1m and a movable part 1m, which cooperate with each other, as will be seen below. The filling and venting system 1 also includes a movable valve element 15, which is in the form of a ball. Incidentally, the system 1 also includes a flat annular seal 16 for sealing the upper annular edge S3 of the source bottle S.

[0071] The moving part 1m comprises two component parts 11 and 12, which are here made separately and attached to one another, but they could also be made as a single unit. The moving part 1m comprises, firstly, a mounting part 11, which forms a threaded sleeve 111, adapted to engage 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, it forms a downward-facing shoulder 114. The mounting piece 11 also includes a chimney 112, which is substantially or perfectly cylindrical. At the junction between the threaded sleeve 111 and the chimney 112, the mounting piece 11 forms a toothed plate 113. This plate 113 can be said to extend over the threaded sleeve 111 around the chimney 112.

[0072] The movable part 1m also includes a transfer piece 12, which has a substantially cylindrical overall configuration, so that it can be engaged by sliding and sealing within the chimney 111. The transfer piece 12 internally defines a flow crossover duct 121, which is compartmentalized by a partition 122, which advantageously extends obliquely. Thus, the fluid product flows from one side of the partition 122, while the air flows from 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 piece 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.

[0073] As mentioned above, it is possible to make the moving part M in a single piece by forming the conduit 121 in the extension of the chimney 112.

[0074] The fixed part If also includes two parts, namely a ring 13 and a cage 14. The ring 13 is fixedly engaged in the ring 14, so that it would possibly be possible to make these two parts as a single unit.

[0075] The crown 13 is generally cylindrical in shape; 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, designed to interlock intimately with the toothed plate 113 of the mounting part 11. In [Fig. 2b], the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are interlocked, whereas in [Fig. 2c], the teeth are disengaged and spaced apart. The engagement of the teeth of the plate 113 and the crown 133 serves to rotate the movable part 1m when the "nomadic" dispenser NI 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 create a confined space for the movable valve member 15, which can come into tight contact with the valve seat 124 formed at the upper end of the transfer piece 12.In the closed position of [Fig.2b], the ball 15 is pressed against its seat 124 by the locking pin 131. In [Fig.2c], corresponding to an open position, the ball 15 is lifted off the seat 124 and can rest on the pin 131.

[0076] The cage 14 serves as a receptacle for the crown 13, but also for the movable part 1m. 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 create a solid and watertight connection with the lower edge of the reservoir R, which is advantageously made in the form of a drawn glass tube. Therefore, the dome 142 can be overmolded onto the skirt 142 and made of a flexible plastic material, such as an elastomer.

[0077] In [Fig.2b], corresponding to the closed position of the filling and venting system 1, the threaded sleeve 111 is entirely disposed inside the skirt 141. The internal hooking profile 144 is disposed axially below the internal shoulder 114. In [Fig.2c], corresponding to the open position of the filling and venting system 1, the threaded sleeve 111 protrudes out of the skirt 141 and the internal hooking profile 144 is engaged with the internal shoulder 114.

[0078] Figures 3a and 3b show the filling and venting system 1, with the cage 14 removed. This clearly reveals the ring 13 and the mounting piece 11. The locking pin 131, surrounded by large passage openings 132, is more easily seen. The shoulder 114 on the outer wall of the threaded sleeve 111 is also visible. In [Fig. 3a], the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are closely interlocked, so that the two parts 11 and 13 are rotationally fixed. Conversely, in [Fig. 3b], the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are disengaged or separated from each other, so that the two parts are no longer rotationally fixed. In other words, the crown 13 can be driven in rotation while leaving the mounting part 11 static.

[0079] By briefly referring 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 is made, the filling and venting system 1 is always in the closed position. It can also be said that the moving valve element 15 and its valve seat 124 together form an operable valve, which is locked in the closed position by the locking pin 131. To unlock the valve, the user simply needs to pull on the portable dispenser NI, while holding the source bottle S with the other hand to move them apart. This has the effect of moving the moving part 1m inside the cage 14. This axial movement releases the moving valve element 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 any movement. the unscrewing of the threaded sleeve 111 of the threaded cl S2. This decoupling between the fixed part If and the mobile part 1m provides assurance that the "nomadic" distributor NI cannot be unscrewed from the source bottle S when the valve is open.

[0080] With reference 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 moving part 1m' and a fixed part lf'. The moving part 1m' here consists of a one-piece mounting and transfer piece 11'. This piece 11' forms a threaded sleeve 111, which may be identical to that of the first embodiment. The piece 11' also forms a toothed plate 113, which may be identical to that of the first embodiment. The piece 11' here incorporates the flow crossover conduit 115, which internally forms an oblique partition 116. The conduit 115 externally forms an annular bead 117 and defines a valve seat 118 at its upper end.An annular lip 114 is formed around the duct 115 in the axial extension of the dentate plate 113.

[0081] The fixed portion lf' also includes a crown 13' and a cage 14'. The crown 13' also includes 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.

[0082] Cage 14' can be substantially identical to cage 14 of the first embodiment.

[0083] In this filling and venting system 1', the ball 15 has been replaced by a sealing member 15', which is fixedly mounted inside the ring 13. For this purpose, the sealing member 15' includes a mounting sleeve 151, which is fixedly engaged and advantageously snapped into place inside the ring 13. The sealing member 15' also includes a sealing operculum 152, as well as the lateral passage openings 153.

[0084] In the closed and mounted position shown in [Fig. 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 tight contact with the operculum 152. Any passage of fluid is thus impossible. The flow crossover conduit 115 is then sealed. It can also be noted that the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133 are interlocked, as in the first embodiment.

[0085] In [Fig. 4c], corresponding to the open position of the filling and venting system 1', it can be seen that the operculum 52 is positioned away from the valve seat 118, so that the fluid product can pass into the conduit 115 through the lateral passage openings 153. As before, the teeth The plate 113 and the collar 133 are disengaged. Part of the threaded sleeve 111 protrudes out of the cage 14'.

[0086] Reference can now be made to Figures 5a, 5b, and 5c to describe an operation for filling the refillable NI dispenser using the source S. After removing the dispensing head S4 from the neck S2, the portable dispenser N1 can be attached and screwed onto the neck S2. This is shown in [Fig. 5a]. The source bottle S can be held securely, and the portable dispenser N1 can be rotated, as indicated by the rounded arrow. As described previously, the threaded sleeve 111 engages with the threaded neck S2. Once the screwing is complete, the user can apply axial traction in the direction of the arrow visible in [Fig. 5b]. The user simply needs to hold the bottle S with one hand and grasp the reservoir R of the portable dispenser NI to apply axial traction away from the source S.This opens the controllable valve integrated into the filling and venting system 1 or 1'. The fixed part 1 or 1' remains attached to the reservoir R, while the moving part 1 or 1' remains attached to the source bottle S. This axial pull opens the valve and also disengages the teeth of the plate 113 and the collar 133, so that rotating the reservoir R no longer unscrews the threaded sleeve 111 from the neck S2. The user can then reverse the assembly to achieve the configuration shown in [Fig. 5c]. The fluid 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 set to the open position. The fluid product can flow through the flow crossover conduit on one side of the partition wall 122 or 116.Simultaneously, the air trapped in reservoir R can flow upwards into the source bottle S through the filling and venting system 1, 1', flowing into the flow crossover transfer duct on the other side of the partition. Filling is complete as soon as the fluid level reaches the open valve. Sufficient air remains 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 first embodiment, the assembly can be inverted to place the nomadic dispenser NI above the source bottle S. In doing so, the ball 15 will return to its seat 124 by gravity and close the duct 121, even before the valve is closed by pressing the nomadic dispenser NI towards the source bottle S.

[0087] Figures 6a, 6b and 6c show a filling and venting system 2 according to a second embodiment of the invention. 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 a pull 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.

[0088] The fixed part 2f comprises two parts, namely a mounting piece 23 and a cage 24. The cage 24 may be substantially similar or identical to that of the first embodiment. As for the mounting piece 23, it comprises, as in the first embodiment, a threaded sleeve 231 for engaging with the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S. This mounting piece 23 generally defines a cylindrical, slightly frustoconical configuration. The threaded sleeve 231 is located at the lower part of the mounting piece 23. The threaded sleeve 231 is provided with two notches 230, more clearly visible in Figures 7a and 7b. At its opposite end, the mounting piece 11 forms a sliding shaft 231, which terminates in an upper annular edge acting as a valve seat 234. Externally, the mounting piece 11 forms an annular support shoulder 232.The mounting part 11 is fixedly received inside the cage 24, which itself is fixedly and hermetically sealed 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 includes 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.

[0089] The moving part 2m also includes two parts, namely a transfer part 21 and a movable valve member 25. These two parts are fixedly connected to each other, so that they could be made in a monobloc fashion.

[0090] The transfer piece 21 comprises an annular plate 211, beneath 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 held captive by the notches 230, as can be seen in Figures 7a and 7b. The transfer piece 21 also forms a fluid crossover conduit 213, in which extends a partition 214. At its upper end, the conduit 213 forms a lip 215.

[0091] The filling and venting system 2 also includes a spring 27, which is disposed inside the threaded sleeve 231 and bears against the shoulder 232. On the opposite side, the spring 27 bears against the annular plate 211 of the transfer piece 21.

[0092] 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 crossing conduit 213, as can be seen in figures 6b and 6c.

[0093] In the closed position of the valve of the filling and venting system 2, the corolla 251 rests tightly 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 firmly against the seat 234. The tabs 212 of the transfer piece 21 are received inside the cage 14 and in notches 230 of the threaded sleeve 231, as can be seen in Figures 7a and 7b. The lip 215 of the conduit 213 is engaged by sliding tightly in the barrel 233 of the mounting piece 23.

[0094] In [Fig. 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 piece 23, whose plate 211 is pressed against the upper annular edge S3 of the source bottle S, with the interposition of the seal 26. The axial displacement of this transfer piece 21a has the effect of compressing the return spring 27 and detaching the corolla 251 from its seat 234. The valve is then open.

[0095] It should be noted that in this second embodiment, 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 triggered by the screwing / unscrewing operation of the sleeve 231 onto the threaded neck S2. Furthermore, it can be observed that the seal between the refillable dispenser N2 and the source bottle S is achieved at the very beginning of the screwing process, since the seal 26 is compressed against the upper annular edge S3 of the neck S2 by the plate 211 of the transfer piece 21. Thus, the risk of leakage is minimized.

[0096] Figures 7a and 7b show more clearly that the threaded sleeve 231 is formed by two wide notches 230 extending along almost its entire height to near the shoulder 232. The tabs 212 are inscribed within these notches 230 and can move axially, as explained previously, by sliding with compression of the return spring 27. In [Fig. 7a], the flap is in its rest position and abuts against the cage's retaining profiles 244, as can be seen in [Fig. 6b]. In [Fig. 7b], the flap is open and the tabs 212 have been moved axially upwards within the notches 230 by the support of the plate 211 on the upper annular edge S3 of the neck S2. The lugs 212 are then snapped into place above the attachment profiles 244, as seen in [Fig.6c].This locking mechanism can generate a noise, such as a "click", which indicates to the user that the valve is in the open position.

[0097] With reference to Figures 8a, 8b, and 8c, the various stages of a filling operation for the refillable "nomadic" dispenser N2 can be seen. In [Fig. 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 engages with the threaded neck S2. At the end of the screwing process, as shown in [Fig. 8b], the tabs 212 snap into place on the other side of the engagement profile 244 of the cage 24, generating a small click, indicating to the user that the screwing is complete. The user then simply inverts the assembly, as shown in [Fig. 8c]. The fluid product from the source bottle S then flows by gravity into the reservoir R of the refillable dispenser N2 by passing through the flow crossover conduit 213 on one side of the partition wall 214.At the same time, the air contained in the reservoir R can be vented upwards into the source flask S through the conduit 213 on the other side of the partition 214.

[0098] Once the refillable N2 dispenser is filled, simply turn the assembly over and unscrew the dispenser from the source bottle S. Finally, the user can optionally reattach the dispensing head S4 to the threaded neck S2.

[0099] Figure 9 shows a refillable or "portable" dispenser N3 according to a third embodiment of the invention, which incorporates a filling and venting system 3 that performs substantially the same functions as the systems described previously. The "portable" dispenser N3 is shown here without a pump mounted on its neck, but it should be understood that it actually incorporates a pump, as in the two preceding embodiments. The filling and venting system 3 is fixedly and hermetically sealed to the lower end of the reservoir R, which can be formed from a glass tube. As in the preceding embodiments, the filling and venting system 3 is permanently mounted to the lower end of the reservoir R: disassembly is impossible.In general, the filling and venting system 3 comprises, as in the two preceding 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 one on top of the other to form a single unit. The filling and venting system 3 also includes a ball 34, acting as a movable valve element, and a spring 35 which acts between the fixed part 3f and the movable part 31 or 3m. The filling and venting system 3 incorporates an operable valve.

[0100] 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 such a way one-piece by injection of plastic material. First of all, this movable part 31 forms a threaded sleeve 311, intended to come into threaded contact with the threaded neck of a source bottle. The movable portion 31 also forms an inlet tube 312 that extends coaxially inside the threaded sleeve 311. This inlet tube 312 includes an axial opening 3121 and a lateral opening 3122. The threaded sleeve 311 is connected to the inlet tube 312 by an annular plate 313. A neck seal 314 is provided inside the threaded sleeve 311 around the inlet tube 312 to contact the underside of the annular plate 313. The plate 313 forms an annular valve seat 315, which is in the form of an annular flange projecting upwards from the inner periphery of the plate 313. This valve seat 315 surrounds the upper end of the inlet tube 312.It can even be noted that the lateral opening 3122 is located in the immediate vicinity of the valve seat 315. The movable part 31 also forms a sliding shaft 316 which extends upwards from the annular plate 313. The sliding shaft 316 is coaxial and extends outwards from the valve seat 315. Externally, the sliding shaft 316 is provided with axial or vertical ribs 317 which extend upwards from the plate 313. For example, two ribs 317 can be provided diametrically opposite each other. The sliding shaft 316 extends upwards by several flexible tabs or sectors 318 which externally form gripping profiles 319.

[0101] 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 ring 322 that forms axial snap-fit ​​recesses 323. The ring 322 also forms one or more inclined helical ramps 324 that are oriented downwards. For example, two ramps 324 may be provided.

[0102] The second fixed part 33 includes an annular collar 331 that projects radially outwards and is intended to bear against the ring 322. The second fixed part 33 also includes snap-fit ​​sectors 333 intended to snap into snap-fit ​​slots 323. Externally, the fixed part 33 is provided with a sealing gasket 332 intended to make tight, sealing contact with the inside of the reservoir R. The second fixed part 33 also forms a lip conduit 334 which forms at its lower end an annular lip 335 intended to make tight sliding contact with the inside of the sliding barrel 316. The lip conduit 334 internally forms a downward-facing thrust pin 336. The filling and venting system 3 also includes a ball 34 and a spring 35, whose functions will be more fully explained below. The ball 34, in selective contact with its seat 315, forms a controllable valve, the operation of which will be described below.

[0103] In [Fig. 10b], the first fixed part 32 mounted on the movable part 31 can be seen. The skirt 321 surrounds the threaded sleeve 311 and part of the sliding shaft 316, which is partially visible below the inclined helical ramp 324. The upper end of the vertical rib 317, which comes into contact with the ramp 324, can also be seen. The spring 35 is arranged around the flexible tabs 318 and bears on one side on the top of the ring 322 and on the other side below the gripping profiles 319. The spring 35 thus forces the gripping profiles 319 away from the ring 322. As a result, the upper end of the vertical rib 317 is forced against the inclined helical ramp 324. In [Fig. 10b], the rib 317 is located at the highest level of the ramp 324, so that the hook profiles 319 are in the furthest position relative to the crown 322.It is easy to understand that a rotation of the fixed part 32 around the moving part 31 in the counterclockwise direction has the effect of moving the rib 317 along the inclined ramp 324, bringing the attachment profiles 319 closer to the crown 322.

[0104] In [Fig. 1a], the filling and venting system 3 is shown in its closed position. The spring 35 is relaxed. The latching profiles 319 are in their position furthest from the ring 322. The sealing lip 335, which guides the lip 334, is pushed as far as it will go inside the sliding barrel 316. The push pin 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 [Fig. 10a]. In this closed position, there can be no fluid communication between the inlet tube 312 and the lip conduit 334, since the ball 34, acting as a movable valve element, is pressed against its seat 315 by the push pin 336.

[0105] In [Fig. 11b], the movable part 31 or 3m has been displaced relative to the fixed part 3f. This relative axial displacement was generated by the relative rotation between the movable part 3m and the fixed part 3f. During this relative rotation, the ribs 317 were moved along the inclined helical ramps 324 from the closed position shown in [Fig. 10b] to an open position, in which the ribs 317 are then positioned at the other end of the ramps 324. The displacement of the ribs 317, which act as a cam, has the effect of bringing the gripping profiles 319 closer to the ring 322. The spring 35 is then compressed. The lip conduit 334 moved within the sliding sleeve 316, and the push pin 336 disengaged from the ball 34, which rests freely on its seat 315. It is readily understood that a flow of fluid product from the inlet tube 312 will detach the ball 34 from its seat 315 so that it can flow through the lip conduit 334.

[0106] Reference will now be made to Figures 12a to 12f to describe a complete filling operation of the "portable" dispenser N3 from a source bottle S, via the filling and venting system 3 according to this third embodiment of the invention. In [Fig. 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 [Fig. 11a]. The ball 34 is pushed against its seat 315 by the needle 336. To achieve this configuration, the user simply rotates the refillable dispenser R on the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle.

[0107] By continuing the rotation on the refillable distributor R, the configuration shown in [Fig. 12b] is reached. The system 3 is then in the open configuration shown in [Fig. 11b]. The needle 36 is disengaged from the ball 34.

[0108] The user can then invert the source bottle S, with the portable dispenser N3 mounted on it, to achieve the configuration shown in [Fig. 12c]. The fluid stored in the source bottle S then flows by gravity through the lateral opening 3122 of the inlet tube 312 to reach the ball 34, which is then detached from its seat and rests unstable and not airtight on the needle 336. The fluid can then flow through the lip duct 334 into the reservoir R of the portable dispenser N3. At the same time, air from the reservoir R of the portable dispenser N3 can escape through the lip duct 334 and the axial opening 3121 of the inlet tube 312.

[0109] The filling of the reservoir R is completed when the liquid level reaches the inlet of the lip conduit 334. There remains some air around the second fixed part 33. We are then in the configuration of [Fig.l2d].

[0110] The user can then turn the source bottle S over again to achieve the configuration shown in [Fig. 12e]. The reservoir R of the "portable" 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.

[0111] 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 [Fig. 12f], which corresponds to the closed configuration of [Fig. 11b].

[0112] The user can unscrew the threaded sleeve 31 from the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle to detach the "nomadic" dispenser N3 from the source bottle S.

[0113] 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 reverse rotation 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 dictated by a torque peak resulting from the compression of the neck seal 314, combined with a screwing torque that is lower than the opening torque. Thus, it is ensured that the screwing phase occurs before the opening phase and that the closing phase occurs before the unscrewing phase. More specifically, 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 naturally immobilizes the sleeve 31 relative to the neck S2 and triggers the opening of the controllable valve. The same occurs symmetrically during closing and unscrewing. The unscrewing torque is less than the torque peak generated by the compression of the neck seal 314, so the controllable valve closes before it unscrews.

[0114] In this third embodiment, the opening of the controllable valve occurs as a continuation 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.

[0115] In all three embodiments, including the variant of the first embodiment, the refillable "portable" dispenser incorporates a filling and venting system comprising a threaded sleeve designed to screw directly onto the threaded neck S2 of the source bottle S, which is preferably made of a single piece of glass. The filling and venting systems incorporate a controlled valve, the opening of which is actuated by a user action, namely a dedicated pull in the first embodiment, simple screwing in the second embodiment, and an actuation screwing action that follows or precedes screwing onto the neck of the source bottle.

Claims

Demands

1. An assembly comprising a source bottle (S) and a refillable dispenser (NI; N2; N3), the source bottle (S), advantageously made of glass, comprising a body (SI) containing a fluid product and a threaded neck (S2) formed as a single piece with the body (SI), the refillable dispenser (NI; N2; N3) defining a longitudinal axis (X) and comprising at an upper end a dispensing head (T) equipped with a push button (T1) and at a lower end a filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3), the refillable dispenser (NI; N2; N3) comprising a reservoir (R) in communication with both the dispensing head (T) and the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3), the refillable dispenser (NI; N2; N3) incorporating a threaded sleeve (111; 231; 311) adapted to screw onto the threaded neck (S2) of the source bottle (S), the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2;3) being then connected to the body (SI), so that the fluid product from 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), 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; 1'; 2; 3), characterized in that the fixed part (3f) and the moving part (3m) are rotatable relative to each other, the fixed part (3f) and the moving part (3m) together defining a cam system (317, 324) capable of generating a relative axial movement along the longitudinal axis (X) of the fixed part (3f) relative to the moving part (3m) by the relative rotation of the fixed part (3f) relative to the moving part (3m).

2. Distribution assembly according to claim 1, wherein the threaded sleeve (111; 231; 311) is permanently connected to the refillable distributor (NI; N2; N3), so that it is inseparable from it, the threaded sleeve (111; 231; 311) advantageously forming an integral and inseparable part of the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3), which is permanently mounted on the tank (R).

3. Distribution assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 2; 3) comprises an actuation valve (15, 124; 15', 118; 25, 234; 34, 315), which is manually actuated by an axial movement along the longitudinal axis (X) between a closed state and an open state, the actuation valve comprising a valve seat (124; 118; 315) and a movable valve member (15; 15'; 34), the valve seat (124; 118; 315) being integral in movement with the threaded sleeve (111; 231; 311).

4. Distribution assembly according to claim 3, wherein the filling and venting system (1; 1'; 3) comprises a fixed part (If; lf'; 3f) mounted on the tank (R) and a movable part (1m; 1m'; 3m) capable of moving axially relative to the fixed part (If; lf'; 3f) over a determined axial stroke, generating the opening, respectively the closing, of the controllable valve (15, 124; 15', 118; 34, 315).

5. Distribution assembly according to claim 4, wherein the threaded sleeve (111; 311) is formed by the moving part (1m; 3m), the moving 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 (If; 3f) in the closed state and which is free to detach from the valve seat (124; 315) in the open position.

6. Distribution assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cam system comprises an inclined helical ramp (324) formed by one of the fixed part (3f) and the moving part (3m) and a cam (317) formed by the other of the fixed part (3f) and the moving part (3m), the cam (317) sliding along the inclined helical ramp (324) during the relative rotation of the fixed part (3f) with respect to the moving part (3m).

7. Distribution assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a spring (35) acts between the fixed part (3f) and the moving part (3m) so as to strain the fixed part (3f) towards the moving 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 moving valve member (34) so ​​that it can detach from its valve seat (315).

8. Distribution assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moving part (3m), forming the sleeve threaded (311) and the valve seat (315), also forms a sliding barrel (316), the fixed part (3f) forming a lip conduit (334) engaged in a sealed sliding motion in the sliding barrel (316), the lip conduit (334) advantageously forming a push pin (336) intended to come into contact with the moving valve element (34) to push it onto its valve seat (315).

9. Distribution assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable part (3m) also forms an inlet tube (312) upstream of the valve seat (315) inside the threaded sleeve (311), the inlet tube (312) forming an axial opening (3121) and a lateral opening (3122), the lateral opening (3122) advantageously being located near the valve seat (315).

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