Aroma diffuser for disposable water bottle
The aroma diffuser for standard water bottles addresses the limitations of existing systems by automatically diffusing fragrance during drinking, enhancing taste perception through both direct and retronasal olfaction, while being cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HEDARCHET CHRISTINE
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-05
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-29
AI Technical Summary
Existing aroma diffusers for water bottles are limited by short lifespan, require specific bottle adaptations, and are costly due to proprietary capsules, while not allowing users to enjoy fruit aromas without consuming sugar.
Aroma diffuser designed for standard water bottles that automatically diffuses fragrance when tilted for drinking, using a movable shutter mechanism triggered by gravity and water flow, without requiring user intervention beyond tilting the bottle.
Provides a long-lasting, cost-effective aroma experience that enhances taste perception through both direct olfaction and retronasal olfaction, without adding calories, and is easy to use and environmentally friendly.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Aroma diffuser for disposable water bottle FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of bottles from which one can drink directly, that is to say of a volume between 0.2 litres and 2 litres, and containing a non-alcoholic beverage. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the field of non-alcoholic beverages, there are mainly water, fruit juices and sodas. The challenge is to reconcile two different, not to say often opposing, things: the user's taste and their health.
[0003] Many users like sodas, but these are too sweet, especially since the combination of gas plus sugar seems even more harmful than sugar alone, risking an increase in the proportion of obese people in the population.
[0004] Water is excellent for health, but many users find it too bland, whether still or sparkling. Fruit juices might seem, at first glance, to offer a happy medium between sodas and water, striking a good balance between taste and consumer health. But here again, the compromise is far from perfect, because either the quantity of fruit juice is high, and the drink tastes good but remains too sweet, or the quantity of fruit juice is low, and the drink becomes less harmful to health but more bland.
[0005] However, the users' strong taste for fruits and fruit drinks actually comes essentially from the users' sense of smell detecting and enjoying the aroma of the fruit, much more than from the detection by the tongue which is much more limited than the sense of smell, whether by direct breathing or by retro-nasalization.
[0006] Thus, instead of making the user drink fruit juice, if we simply make him drink water, while simultaneously allowing him to smell the fruit, we can achieve a much better compromise: his taste is almost as well satisfied, since the essential part of the fruit detection, coming from olfaction, is well done, while totally preserving his health since no sugar is swallowed, the scent of the fruit is only smelled.
[0007] However, making such a fruit perfume scent capsule, which is both effective, good for health, and economically interesting, is not so simple, as shown by the disadvantages of the various systems of the prior art, especially if one also takes into account the simplification of use for the user and the stability of positioning of the capsule during use by the user.
[0008] According to prior art, for example described in US patent 5635229 (Figure 5), a water bottle associated with an aroma diffuser located at the level is known. of the bottle cap, but, on the one hand the lifespan of the aroma diffuser is short, and on the other hand requires a specific cap structure dedicated to a specific shape of aroma diffuser.
[0009] According to a second prior art, a dedicated water bottle with a specially designed spout is known, onto which a correspondingly shaped capsule is fitted, diffusing a fruit scent: several models are currently commercially available. However, the dedicated nature of the water bottle entails two drawbacks: firstly, it represents a certain investment, possibly to be made several times, to have access to a wide range of fruity flavors, while remaining dependent on one or more specific manufacturers for purchasing the capsules, which can thus be quite expensive; and secondly, the user must refill their water bottle with water each time, possibly from a mineral water bottle, which is a tedious operation for the user, especially since they will have to do it frequently. OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The invention proposes an alternative approach to solving this problem. The invention provides an aroma diffuser whose design, shape, and structure make it directly usable with a commercially available bottle of mineral water, without any adaptation of the bottle's shape or structure. The aroma is diffused when the user drinks the water from the bottle. Thus, the aroma diffuser offers users simplicity and flexibility in its use, also allowing them to save money.
[0011] The invention provides both an aroma diffuser for use with a water bottle and a drinking device integrating this aroma diffuser and the water bottle with which it is used.
[0012] The invention specifically proposes a long-lasting aroma diffuser. According to the invention, the aroma will only be diffused when the user drinks the water from the bottle; the aroma will not be diffused when the user does not drink the water from the bottle, even when the bottle is open and placed on a surface.
[0013] To achieve a particularly simple synchronization system, it operates solely under the influence of one or more forces that do not depend directly on the user (indirectly, because the user must pick up and tilt the bottle to drink, or place it upright after drinking), such as the flow of water through the neck of the bottle or the effect of gravity acting on the weight of the movable shutter. When the bottle is placed upright, the movable shutter is in its closed position, and / or when the bottle is lifted and tilted by the user so that they begin to drink the water from the bottle, the bottom of the bottle being then higher than the neck, then, under the sole Due to this force or these forces, the movable shutter moves from its closed position to its open position. The user does not need to do anything; no action (after unscrewing and removing the cap, other than lifting the bottle, tilting it, and drinking the water) is required of the user. The user does not need to touch or move the movable shutter to move it from its closed position to its open position and / or from its open position to its closed position.
[0014] To this end, the invention proposes an aroma diffuser for a disposable water bottle, in particular a disposable plastic water bottle with a capacity of between 0.2 and 2 liters, and comprising a neck surrounded by a thread for a screw cap, comprising: • an aroma reservoir, • of an annular or partially annular shape so that it can be placed around the neck of this bottle, • and comprising several aroma diffusion openings, • a tank shutter, • mobile, relative to the reservoir, between: • a position where all these orifices are simultaneously closed, preventing aroma from escaping the reservoir, • and a position where all these orifices are opened simultaneously, allowing the aroma to be diffused out of the reservoir, around the neck of the bottle, and upwards through the bottle. • so as to move from the closed position to the open position, • when the cap is unscrewed and removed from the neck of this bottle, • when the aroma reservoir is placed around the neck of this bottle, • when this bottle is tilted from a vertical position with the neck pointing upwards to an inclined position with the neck pointing downwards, • this movable shutter being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting, • one or more fixings of the diffuser to this bottle, arranged so as to place the reservoir around the neck of this bottle.
[0015] Preferably, for the bottle, an inclined position with the neck of the bottle downwards corresponds to a position in which the entire bottom of the bottle is higher than the entire neck of the bottle.
[0016] Preferably, this movable shutter is also movable so as to: • to move from the open position to the closed position, • when the cap is unscrewed and removed from the neck of this bottle, • when the aroma reservoir is placed around the neck of this bottle, • when this bottle is tilted from an inclined position with the neck downwards to a vertical position with the neck upwards, • this movable shutter being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting.
[0017] To this end, the invention also proposes an aroma diffuser for a disposable water bottle, in particular a disposable plastic water bottle with a capacity of between 0.2 and 2 liters, and comprising a neck surrounded by a thread for a screw cap, comprising: • an aroma reservoir, • of annular or partially annular shape around an axis of the reservoir, so as to be able to be placed around the neck of this bottle, • and comprising several aroma diffusion openings, • a tank shutter, • mobile, relative to the reservoir, between: • a position where all these orifices are simultaneously closed, preventing aroma from escaping the reservoir, • and a position where all these orifices are opened simultaneously, allowing the aroma to be diffused out of the reservoir, around the neck of the bottle, and upwards through the bottle. • so as to move from the closed position to the open position, • during a tilting of this tank corresponding to a tilting of the tank axis of at least 110 degrees from a vertical position of the tank axis, or at least 120 degrees from a vertical position of the tank axis, at least 130 degrees from a vertical position of the tank axis, • this movable shutter being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting, • one or more fixings of the diffuser to this bottle, arranged so as to place the reservoir around the neck of this bottle.
[0018] Once this reservoir has tilted with a tilt of its axis of at least 110 degrees from a vertical position of its axis, or of at least 120 degrees from a vertical position of its axis, of at least 130 degrees from a vertical position of its axis, the reservoir can even then return to a position closer to the horizontal, while maintaining a tilt of at least 100 or even of at least 90 degrees from a vertical position of its axis, so that the movable shutter remains in the open position, thus allowing the user to drink or continue to drink while benefiting from the diffusion of aroma through the open diffusion orifices.
[0019] Preferably, for the reservoir, this vertical position of the axis of the reservoir corresponds to the position of the reservoir placed around the neck of the bottle standing upright with the neck of the bottle upwards.
[0020] Preferably, this movable shutter is also movable so as to: • to move from the open position to the closed position, • when tilting this bottle from an inclined position with the neck downwards to a vertical position with the neck upwards, • during a tilting of this tank corresponding to a tilting of the tank axis of at least 90 degrees, or of at least 110 degrees towards a vertical position of the tank axis, or of at least 120 degrees towards a vertical position of the tank axis, or of at least 130 degrees towards a vertical position of the tank axis, • this movable shutter being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting.
[0021] To this end, the invention further proposes a drinking device, comprising: • a disposable water bottle, in particular a disposable plastic water bottle, with a capacity of between 0.2 and 2 liters, comprising: • a collar, surrounded by a thread for a screw cap, • an aroma diffuser including: • an aroma reservoir, • of an annular or partially annular shape so that it can be placed around the neck of this bottle, • and comprising several aroma diffusion openings, • a tank shutter, • mobile, relative to the reservoir, between: • a position where all these orifices are simultaneously closed, preventing aroma from escaping the reservoir, • and a position where all these orifices are opened simultaneously, allowing the aroma to be diffused out of the reservoir, around the neck of the bottle, and upwards through the bottle. • so as to move from the closed position to the open position, • when the cap is unscrewed and removed from the neck of this bottle, • when the aroma reservoir is placed around the neck of this bottle, • when this bottle is tilted from a vertical position with the neck pointing upwards to an inclined position with the neck pointing downwards, • this movable shutter being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting, • one or more fixings of the diffuser to this bottle, arranged so as to place the reservoir around the neck of this bottle.
[0022] Preferably, this movable shutter is then automatically and mechanically driven by the flow of water through the neck out of the bottle pushing on a part of this movable shutter and / or by the effect of gravity on this movable shutter, during said tilting.
[0023] Thus, the user no longer has to make any other gesture (other than tilting the bottle to drink) to release the diffusion of the aroma.
[0024] Preferably, this movable shutter is then automatically and mechanically driven at least by the flow of water through the neck out of the bottle pushing on a part of this movable shutter, during said tilting.
[0025] Thus, the user no longer has to make any other gesture (other than tilting the bottle to drink) to release the diffusion of the aroma.
[0026] Preferably, this movable shutter is then automatically and mechanically driven at least by the effect of gravity on this movable shutter, during said tilting.
[0027] Thus, the user no longer has to make any other gesture (other than tilting the bottle to drink) to release the diffusion of the aroma.
[0028] Preferably, this movable shutter is then automatically and mechanically driven by the sole effect of gravity on this movable shutter, during said tilting.
[0029] Thus, the user no longer has to make any other gesture (other than tilting the bottle to drink) to release the diffusion of the aroma.
[0030] Certain structural features of the movable shutter, enabling or facilitating the automatic and mechanical drive of the movement of the movable shutter between its closed and open positions of the diffusion orifices, without user intervention other than tilting the bottle to drink, will now be presented.
[0031] Preferably, the obturator is annular or partially annular in shape around an axis of the obturator, so as to be able to be placed around the neck of this bottle, said part of this movable obturator: either comprises one or more protuberances oriented towards the inside of said annular or partially annular shape, or is formed by an annular or partially annular rim which is oriented towards the inside of said annular or partially annular shape.
[0032] Preferably, the protrusion(s) and the rim are oriented inwards towards the annular or partially annular shape of the movable shutter, extending radially inwards from the innermost concentric surface of the rest of the movable shutter, over a distance of at least 1 mm, or at least 2 mm, and advantageously of at most 5 mm, or at most 4 mm. In other words, the width of the protrusion(s), like the width of the rim, is between 1 mm and 5 mm, or advantageously between 2 mm and 4 mm, or between 1 mm and 4 mm, or between 2 mm and 5 mm.
[0033] Preferably, either said protuberance(s) is or are inclined with respect to the axis of the obturator, either towards the top of the tank, or towards the bottom of the tank, or said rim is inclined with respect to the axis of the obturator, either towards the top of the tank, or towards the bottom of the tank.
[0034] Preferably, either said protuberance(s) is or are orthogonal with respect to the axis of the shutter, or said rim is orthogonal with respect to the axis of the shutter.
[0035] Preferably, either said protuberance(s) have a concave or convex shape, or said rim has a concave or convex shape.
[0036] The present invention thus makes it possible to overcome the drawbacks of known devices by providing a diffuser: - providing the consumer with a perceived flavour without the drawback of calories or the addition of any type of additives to the drinked content, thus allowing the best nutritional value according to the "Nutriscore" scale ("registered trademark"), - very simple to use on a standard water bottle, i.e., it can be opened / closed with little effort and few steps, - obeying an objective of sustainable and responsible development: that of achieving a simple manufacturing process for the invented diffuser, requiring no change or almost no change in the manufacturing process of the containers with which it will cooperate, in particular for water bottles, which will allow a standardization of the use of such a diffuser, i.e. an easier adoption by consumers, the industries concerned, and even regulators who see it as a dual issue of public health and of avoiding the multiplication of capsules with proprietary designs, and will thus confirm the desired objective of sustainable and responsible development.
[0037] According to preferred embodiments, the invention comprises one or more of the following features which can be used separately or in partial combination with each other or in total combination with each other, with any of the aforementioned objects of the invention.
[0038] Preferably, the obturator is annular or partially annular around an axis of the obturator, so as to be able to be placed around the neck of this bottle.
[0039] Thus, the movable shutter has an annular shape that complements the annular shape of the reservoir with which it cooperates. In this way, when the movable shutter moves relative to the reservoir, the complementarity between the annular shape of the movable shutter and the annular shape of the reservoir allows for improved guidance of the movement of the movable shutter relative to the reservoir.
[0040] Preferably, the tank shutter is movable relative to the tank by translation, preferably by translation along the axis of the shutter.
[0041] Thus, the very simple movement of the movable shutter can be easily carried out under the effect of gravity alone and / or the flow of water out of the neck of the bottle.
[0042] Preferably, the shutter has at least one plate, this plate being able to advantageously close all or part of the diffusion orifices, preferably the plate is in the shape of a complete or at least partial crown, and / or preferably the plate is orthogonal to the axis of the shutter.
[0043] Thus, the movable shutter plate can close and open orifices located on the upper face of the reservoir.
[0044] Preferably, the shutter has at least one first wall, this first wall being able to advantageously close all or part of the diffusion orifices, preferably the first wall is in the form of a complete or at least partial cylinder, and / or preferably the first wall is parallel to the axis of the shutter.
[0045] Thus, the first wall, advantageously cylindrical, of the movable obturator can close and open orifices located on the external concentric face of the reservoir.
[0046] Preferably, the first wall which can close all or part of the diffusion orifices is extended by a first protrusion which butts against the reservoir in the closed position of the shutter so as to stop the stroke of the shutter, the first protrusion being advantageously orthogonal to the first wall, and is extended by a second protrusion which butts against the reservoir in the open position of the shutter so as to stop the stroke of the shutter, the second protrusion being advantageously orthogonal to the first wall.
[0047] Thus, the first and second protuberances form the two extreme end stops of the movement of the movable shutter, corresponding respectively to the closing and opening positions of the movable shutter.
[0048] Preferably, the shutter has at least one second wall, this second wall being able to advantageously close all or part of the diffusion orifices, preferably the second wall is in the form of a complete or at least partial cylinder, and / or preferably the second wall is parallel to the axis of the shutter.
[0049] Thus, the second wall, advantageously cylindrical, of the movable obturator can close and open orifices located on the internal concentric face of the reservoir.
[0050] Preferably, the second wall, which can close all or part of the diffusion orifices, is extended by a first protrusion which butts against the reservoir in the closed position of the shutter so as to stop the stroke of the shutter, the first protrusion being advantageously orthogonal to the second wall, and is extended by a second protrusion which butts against the reservoir in the open position of the shutter so as to stop the stroke of the shutter, the second protrusion being advantageously orthogonal to the second wall.
[0051] Thus, the first and second protuberances form the two extreme end stops of the movement of the movable shutter, corresponding respectively to the closing and opening positions of the movable shutter.
[0052] Preferably, the shutter comprises one or more metal weights arranged to increase the effect of gravity during the movement of the shutter. A different material may be used for the weight(s), provided that it is heavier than the rest of the (main) material of the moving shutter.
[0053] Thus, the effect of gravity is amplified thanks to the presence of the weights.
[0054] Preferably, the diffusion orifices comprise: several first aroma diffusion orifices, then arranged around the neck of this bottle, oriented outwards from the neck of this bottle, so as to allow aroma diffusion out of the reservoir, around the neck of this bottle, outwards from the neck of this bottle, and upwards from the top of this bottle, when the reservoir is placed around the neck of this bottle, so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by breathing through the nose, by a user drinking the water from this bottle, and a second orifice or several second aroma diffusion orifices, then oriented towards the inside of the neck of this bottle or oriented towards the inside of the space above the neck and in line with the neck of this bottle, so as to allow aroma diffusion out of the reservoir,towards the inside of the neck of this bottle or towards the inside of the space above and extending from the neck of this bottle, when the reservoir is placed around the neck of this bottle, so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by retronasal inhalation, by a user drinking the water from this bottle.
[0055] Preferably, the diffusion orifices comprise: several first aroma diffusion orifices, then arranged around this annular shape, oriented outwards from this annular shape, so as to allow aroma diffusion out of the reservoir, around the neck of this bottle, outwards from the neck of this bottle, and upwards from this bottle, when the reservoir is placed around the neck of this bottle, so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by breathing through the nose, by a user drinking the water from this bottle; and a second orifice or several second aroma diffusion orifices, then oriented inwards from this annular shape, so as to allow aroma diffusion out of the reservoir, into the neck of this bottle or into the space above the neck and in line with the neck of this bottle, when the reservoir is placed around the neck of this bottle.so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, via retronasal inhalation, by a user drinking the water from this bottle.
[0056] Thus, an aroma diffuser is proposed whose arrangement, shape, and structure maximize the taste perceived by the user, including perceived taste and smell. by the user, without damaging their health. For this, the invention provides an aroma diffuser allowing both direct olfaction (breathing) and retro-nasal olfaction (retro-nasalization) for the user, thus maximizing their sensation, while not impacting their health, since the user only absorbs scents, and in reality does not drink sweetened fruit juice.
[0057] Thus, the user will be able to smell the aroma or aromas diffused, both through the nose by breathing them in at the front of his nasal cavity, and by retro-nasalization by bringing this aroma or these aromas back through the back of his nasal cavity.
[0058] Preferably, the aroma reservoir includes only one second aroma diffusion orifice, then oriented towards the inside of the neck of this bottle or oriented towards the inside of the space located above the neck and in the extension of the neck of this bottle.
[0059] Preferably, the aroma reservoir includes only one second aroma diffusion orifice, then oriented towards the inside of this annular shape.
[0060] Thus, retronasalization is satisfactorily achieved with a minimum number of diffusion orifices, here only one, because on the internal side, the fingers of the user's hand, whatever their position, cannot interfere with the diffusion of aroma.
[0061] Preferably, the aroma reservoir comprises two or more concentric cylindrical walls, the second aroma diffusion orifice or orifices, then oriented towards the inside of the neck of this bottle or oriented towards the inside of the space located above the neck and in the extension of the neck of this bottle, belongs or belong to the innermost concentric cylindrical wall of the reservoir.
[0062] Preferably, the aroma reservoir comprises two or more concentric cylindrical walls, the second aroma diffusion orifice or orifices, then oriented towards the inside of this annular shape, belongs or belong to the innermost concentric cylindrical wall of the reservoir.
[0063] Thus, retronasalization is obtained satisfactorily, without risk of the liquid exiting through the neck of the bottle entering the aroma reservoir, even though the aroma exits through the internal orifice(s) to enter the flow of liquid through the neck going from the inside of the bottle to the inside of the user's mouth.
[0064] Preferably, the aroma reservoir has a U-shaped section, the U having or not having two symmetrical legs, with these two legs of the U oriented downwards, when the reservoir is placed around the neck of this bottle.
[0065] Preferably, the aroma reservoir has a U-shaped section, the U having or not having two symmetrical legs.
[0066] One leg of the U is placed outside the neck of the bottle, so as to be able to diffuse the aroma through the external orifices, while the other leg of the U is placed inside the neck of the bottle, so as to be able to diffuse the aroma through the internal orifices.
[0067] Preferably, the first orifices on the one hand and the second orifice or orifices on the other hand are connected to the same chamber of the reservoir, this same chamber containing the same aroma to be diffused.
[0068] Thus, the user only smells one and the same aroma, but the sensation is amplified tenfold because it is felt simultaneously by breathing and by retro-nasalization.
[0069] Preferably, the first orifices on the one hand and the second orifice or orifices on the other hand are connected to two separate chambers of the reservoir, these two separate chambers containing respectively two aromas to be diffused which are different from each other.
[0070] Thus, the user can simultaneously smell the mixture of two different perfumes in his nasal cavity, one arriving by breathing through the front of his nasal cavity and the other arriving by retro-nasalization through the back of his nasal cavity.
[0071] By playing with the dosage of the mixture, different interesting sensations can be provided to the user.
[0072] Preferably, the reservoir and / or diffuser is annular in shape, making a complete turn. Once placed around the neck of the bottle, the annular-shaped reservoir and / or diffuser makes one or more complete turns around the neck of the bottle.
[0073] Thus, the reservoir and the diffuser are positioned around the neck of the bottle in a more stable manner.
[0074] Preferably, the reservoir and / or diffuser is partially annular in shape, making between 60% and 90% of a complete turn.
[0075] Thus, a good compromise is achieved between, on the one hand, the stability of the positioning of the reservoir and the diffuser around the neck of the bottle, and on the other hand, a clearance space of sufficient size is provided to receive the cap once unscrewed and removed from the neck of the bottle, even when this cap remains attached to a safety ring located around the neck of the bottle by a relatively short link.
[0076] This tamper-evident ring refers to the European directive on single-use plastics, known as the "captive cap" directive, which applies to all plastic bottle caps that must be attached to the bottle body from July 3, 2024. The objective of this regulation is to minimize the harmful effects of plastic on the environment. In this context, standardization of captive caps is planned, thus ensuring that the cap is collected and recycled with the bottle. To date, among the various captive cap solutions on the market, we find, in particular, caps linked to a base clipped under the screw thread (such as for example that of the brand "Rozanna" ("registered trademark")) and the hinged "snapped" caps (such as for example that of the brand "Cristalline" ("registered trademark")), which do not unscrew but open from bottom to top.
[0077] Preferably, the fixing(s) are one or more clips which are arranged so as: to be able to clip under the collar of the neck of this bottle, so as to place the reservoir: around the neck of this bottle.
[0078] Thus, the diffuser is positioned around the neck of the bottle in an even more stable manner.
[0079] Preferably, the aroma diffusion orifices are regularly distributed around the axis of the annular or partially annular shape.
[0080] Thus, regardless of the position of the fingers of the hand of the user holding the bottle when the user drinks the contents of the bottle, the diffusion of aroma around the neck of the bottle, towards the nose of the user who drinks the contents of the bottle, remains significant.
[0081] Preferably, the aroma diffusion orifices are of at least 4, or at least 6, or at least 10.
[0082] Thus, regardless of the position of the fingers of the hand of the user holding the bottle when the user drinks the contents of the bottle, the diffusion of aroma around the neck of the bottle, towards the nose of the user who drinks the contents of the bottle, remains significant.
[0083] Preferably, the clips are regularly distributed around the axis of the annular or partially annular shape.
[0084] Thus, the diffuser is positioned around the neck of the bottle in an even more stable manner.
[0085] Preferably, there are at least 2 clips, or at least 3, or at least 4, or at least 6.
[0086] Thus, the diffuser is positioned around the neck of the bottle in an even more stable manner.
[0087] Preferably, part of the clips or each clip is formed by a narrowing of material located between its distal part and its proximal part.
[0088] Thus, the mechanical realization of the diffuser clip(s) is made even simpler.
[0089] Preferably, part of the clips or each clip is formed by an internal protrusion: oriented towards the inside of the annular shape of the tank, from a part of a wall of the tank or from a part of the support wall of the tank, and made of a material more elastic than the material of the wall of the tank or of the support wall of the tank.
[0090] Thus, the diffuser is positioned even more stably around the neck of the bottle. Positioning the diffuser in its clipped / locked position is facilitated by a snap-fit mechanism. Indeed, the internal protrusion, due to its elastic deformability, allows the diffuser to engage under the bottle's collar as it moves towards locking, and when the diffuser is pulled from its locked position to its unlocked position, it resists retraction up to a certain force.
[0091] Preferably, the aroma reservoir is a replaceable consumable that is detachable from the rest of the aroma diffuser.
[0092] Thus, the aroma reservoir, once emptied, can be replaced without having to replace the rest of the diffuser, which is more economical for the user and more environmentally friendly for society. The consumer then only needs to replace the reservoir, which can be sold separately as a replaceable consumable after repeated use has depleted it of aroma. This aroma reservoir can be marketed with packaging covering at least the openings. The rest of the diffuser is then only intended to be replaced after a certain amount of wear. In this way, responsible durability of the diffuser and its various components is ensured. Of course, the reservoir bodies, or more generally, the diffusers according to the invention, can be marked and / or colored to indicate their contents.
[0093] Preferably, the clip(s) are arranged so as: to be able to clip under the collar of the neck of this bottle, so as to place the reservoir: around the neck of this bottle, below the level of the bottom of the thread surrounding the neck of this bottle.
[0094] Thus, even with a permanent safety ring, located around the neck of the bottle, to which the cap remains attached even once unscrewed from the neck, the cap can be removed from the neck without being hindered by the presence of the reservoir, whether the connection between the safety ring and the cap is short, of intermediate length, or long.
[0095] Preferably, the aroma is a fruity fragrance.
[0096] Thus, the sensation of drinking water becomes even more pleasant for the user.
[0097] Preferably, the aroma includes a component which has an effect of: either appetite suppression, taste desensitization, or taste re-education.
[0098] Thus, the simple act of drinking water can improve or even restore other sensations useful to the user. Preferably, the aroma comprises at least one component and / or at least one essential oil, of one or more of the following fragrances: peppermint, lemon, grapefruit, cinnamon, rosemary, clove, green mandarin, thyme.
[0099] Thus, the simple act of drinking water triggers other beneficial effects in the user, beyond pleasure, at the cost of a simple inhalation of very limited importance of vaporizing essential oil, instead of having to actually drink a few drops of that essential oil.
[0100] Preferably, at least the reservoir, and preferably also the diffuser, is made or are made of natural cellulose.
[0101] Thus, the reservoir and / or diffuser are cheaper and more environmentally friendly, because they are more easily recyclable.
[0102] Preferably, the reservoir comprises at least two compartments which can release their respective aromas sequentially or alternately or jointly.
[0103] Thus, the release of the respective aromas from the two compartments is: • either sequential, with the aroma being the same in both compartments, which allows the aroma to last longer and retain its freshness and organoleptic qualities for longer, • or alternatively, the aromas being different between the two compartments, allowing the user to alternate the aroma over time, for example switching from strawberry to orange, • either joint, with different aromas between the two compartments, allowing the user to mix the two aromas together in their nasal cavity, for example combining strawberry perfume with mint perfume.
[0104] Preferably, the diffuser contains a capsule of flavoring liquid or gel, this capsule being made of a sufficiently brittle material, and the reservoir being made of a sufficiently flexible material, so that the capsule can be broken by mechanical pressure from the user's hand or fingers on the reservoir during the first use.
[0105] Thus, the aroma is only released during the first use, thereby better preserving its freshness and organoleptic qualities before use, and in a simple and effective way.
[0106] Taste receptors can only register five distinct tastes, whereas there are hundreds of types of olfactory receptors allowing the nose to perceive many more odors. However, drinking flavored water from a bottle does not involve direct olfaction, but only retronasal olfaction. The invention also overcomes this drawback.
[0107] The disposable water bottle is preferably a disposable mineral water bottle, in particular a plastic water bottle. The disposable plastic water bottle can be replaced, for example, by a disposable bioplastic water bottle, or by a disposable bamboo water bottle, or by a disposable PLA water bottle.
[0108] The disposable water bottle is preferably recyclable or at least partly recyclable.
[0109] The disposable water bottle is opposed, for example, to a constantly reusable water bottle.
[0110] Advantageously, the aroma may emanate from a substance contained therein, known for its aromatic properties. The constituents or ingredients of the aromatizing material or substance contained in the reservoir chamber of the aroma diffuser will not be detailed herein. It should be understood, however, that the contents of this chamber are not necessarily limited to a particular material, form, or phase; for example, the contents of this chamber may contain ingredients in the form of solid granules, one or more gels, or one or more breakable capsules. The contents of this chamber may also include another constituent that may not only improve the diffusion of an aroma, but may also improve, in particular, its preservation and / or aeration. Brief description of the drawings
[0111] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0112] [Fig-1] The [Fig. 1] schematically represents a side view of a beverage device comprising an aroma diffuser according to the invention.
[0113] [Fig.2] Fig.2 schematically represents a side view of a beverage device comprising an aroma diffuser according to the invention, with a first type of aroma reservoir and with a first type of movable shutter of the aroma diffuser on the beverage device.
[0114] [Fig.3] Fig.3 schematically represents a side view of a beverage device comprising an aroma diffuser according to the invention, with a second type of aroma reservoir and with a second type of movable shutter of the aroma diffuser on the beverage device.
[0115] In the following description of embodiments of the invention, a container, for example a bottle, such as the one shown in the figures, is considered. In this figure, the bottle extends along a vertical axis Z, with the opening of the bottle and the diffuser according to the invention facing upwards. Thus, the "top" of the bottle is defined by its opening, on which the diffuser is to be mounted, and the bottom of the bottle is the portion opposite its opening. The reservoir has an axis (of symmetry or near-symmetry) that is vertical when the reservoir is placed around the neck of the bottle and the bottle is standing upright. The movable stopper has an axis (of symmetry or near-symmetry) that is vertical when the reservoir is placed around the neck of the bottle and the bottle is standing upright.
[0116] Similarly, the term "internal surface" refers to the surface of a part directed towards the inside of the bottle, and similarly, the term "external surface" refers to the surface of a part directed towards the outside of the bottle, that is, in a direction substantially opposite to the direction of the inside of the bottle. Likewise, the term "horizontal axis" refers to the axes X and Y perpendicular to the principal axis Z along which the bottle extends from bottom to top.
[0117] Water bottles with a slightly shorter neck (17mm instead of 21mm), a steeper screw thread, and threads that only go around twice instead of three times around the neck of the bottle can also be used.
[0118] According to one embodiment, the reservoir may contain a capsule of flavoring liquid or gel, made of a brittle material, while the reservoir and its casing (cap, etc.) are made of flexible materials. In this case, the consumer must, upon first use, press on the diffuser to break the capsule.
[0119] Once the capsule is broken, it releases its contents, but these will, of course, remain in the reservoir as long as the diffuser is in the closed position. According to one variant, such a capsule can also be fitted in another location on the diffuser, in addition to the aroma extracts present in the reservoir.
[0120] Guiding means, such as rails in the form of circular grooves for example, can be provided between the elements to ensure translational or rotational movements.
[0121] At the ends of this guide, one or more end stops are provided, in translation and / or in rotation of the tank so as not to rotate in a vacuum.
[0122] The space around the bottle is oriented in the orthogonal directions X, Y, Z, such that the Z direction is along the vertical axis which is also the axis of symmetry of the overall cylindrical bottle.
[0123] DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0124] Fig. 1 schematically represents a side view of a beverage device comprising an aroma diffuser according to the invention.
[0125] In [Fig. 1], a cylindrical water bottle 1 terminates at its upper end, along the Z-axis, in a neck 4 of the bottle 1, also cylindrical, having an external thread 40 of the neck 4 surrounding the neck 4. Beneath this external thread 40 is an annular collar 41 of the neck 4. The annular collar 41 encircles the neck 4, either continuously or by means of several outwardly facing protrusions radially distributed around the neck 4. Between the external thread 40 and the annular collar 41 is an annular safety ring 30, which is connected by a tab-type safety link 31 to the cap 3. The cap 3 has an internal thread corresponding to the external thread 40 of the neck 4, allowing the cap 3 to screw around the neck 4. The annular safety ring 30 also goes around the neck 4. The neck 4 ends at the top with an opening 43 through which the liquid contained in the bottle, for example water, can flow out of the bottle 1, towards the outside of the bottle 1.
[0126] The aroma diffuser 2 is annular and includes an aroma reservoir 5, also annular, and its support, also annular. The annular aroma diffuser 2, the annular aroma reservoir 5, and its annular support are all positioned around the neck 4 and at least partially encircle the neck 4. The reservoir 5 includes aroma diffusion orifices 6 that allow the aroma contained in the reservoir 5 to be diffused outwards from the reservoir 5 and thus outwards from the diffuser 2. The orifices 6 are preferably located on the outer side wall of the reservoir 5 (as seen in [Fig. 2]) and / or on the upper wall of the reservoir 5 (as seen in [Fig. 3]). The orifices 6 of the reservoir 5 can be opened or closed by a movable shutter 7 (not shown in [Fig. 1]).
[0127] Fig. 2 schematically represents a side view of a beverage device comprising an aroma diffuser according to the invention, with a first type of aroma reservoir and with a first type of movable shutter of the aroma diffuser on the beverage device.
[0128] The beverage device includes a bottle 1 and an aroma diffuser 2.
[0129] The bottle 1 is a disposable water bottle, in particular a disposable plastic water bottle, with a capacity of between 0.2 and 2 liters. The bottle 1 extends upwards by a neck 4. The neck 4 is surrounded by an external thread 40 for a screw cap 3, and by a collar 41 located below the external thread 40 of the neck 4.
[0130] The aroma diffuser 2 includes an aroma reservoir 5 which is annular or partially annular in shape so as to be able to be placed around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, and also includes several aroma diffusion orifices 6.
[0131] The reservoir 5 is a detachable consumable shown before assembly; this annular reservoir 5 is clipped inside the annular shutter 7 which is movable by translation along the vertical axis Z downwards.
[0132] Once the reservoir 5 is clipped inside the movable annular shutter 7, this shutter 7 is movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between, on the one hand, a position of simultaneous closure of all the orifices 6, thus preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, and on the other hand, a position of simultaneous opening of all the orifices 6 allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, on the one hand around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, and on the other hand also towards the top of this bottle 1.
[0133] In [Fig.2], the position shown is the position of simultaneous opening of all the orifices 6 allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5. The movable shutter 7 includes orifices 70.
[0134] To obtain the position (not shown) corresponding to a position of simultaneous closure of all the orifices 6, thus preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, it is sufficient to slide the movable shutter 7 downwards in translation along the vertical axis Z, the solid wall of the movable shutter 7 covering and thus closing the diffusion orifices 6 of the reservoir 5. In fact, the shutter 7 of the reservoir is movable relative to the reservoir 5 by translation along a translation axis Z parallel to the axis of the annular or partially annular shape of the reservoir 5.
[0135] The movable shutter 7 can cover and thus close the diffusion orifices 6 of the reservoir 5, whether these are located on the side wall of the reservoir 5 or on the top wall of the reservoir 5, it is sufficient for this that the movable shutter has a cylindrical shape with an annular face.
[0136] The shutter 7 is movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between, on the one hand, a position of simultaneous closure of all the orifices 6, thus preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, and on the other hand, a position of simultaneous opening of all the orifices 6, allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, both around the neck 4 of the bottle 1 and also towards the top of this bottle 1. Here, the shutter 7 is movable in translation along the vertical axis Z and around the reservoir 5. The reservoir is shown with diffusion orifices 6 on its outer lateral wall 5 If. When the shutter 7 slides vertically along the vertical axis Z, if the orifices 70 of the shutter 7 are opposite the diffusion orifices 6 of the reservoir 5, then the diffusion orifices 6 are open and can spread the aroma outwards from the reservoir 5.When the shutter 7 slides vertically along the vertical axis Z, if the orifices 70 of the shutter 7 are not opposite the diffusion orifices 6 of the reservoir 5, then the diffusion orifices 6 are closed because they are covered by the solid wall of the shutter 7 and cannot diffuse the aroma outwards from the reservoir 5. This aroma remains stored (in a form allowing for volatilization when the diffusion orifices are opened) inside the reservoir 5. The reservoir 5 could alternatively or cumulatively have diffusion orifices 6 on its upper face 51s. These diffusion orifices 6 would then be closed when the solid wall of a horizontal flap (actually perpendicular to the vertical axis Z) on the upper part of the shutter 7, parallel to this upper face 51s of the reservoir 5, covered the diffusion orifices 6, which would also be located on the upper face 51s of the tank 5.These diffusion orifices 6 would then be open when the orifices of this upper horizontal flap (actually perpendicular to the vertical axis Z) of the obturator 7, parallel to this upper face 51s of the reservoir 5, would be opposite the diffusion orifices 6 located on the upper face 51s of the reservoir 5. .
[0137] The obturator 7 of the reservoir 5 is movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between a position of simultaneous closure of all these orifices 6, preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, and a position of simultaneous opening of all these orifices 6 allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, towards the top of this bottle 1, so as to move, from the closed position to the open position, under the sole effect of gravity, when the cap 3 is unscrewed and removed from the neck 4 of this bottle 1, when the aroma reservoir 5 is placed around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, when tilting this bottle 1 from a vertical position with the neck 4 upwards to an inclined position with the neck 4 downwards.
[0138] For bottle 1, an inclined position with the neck 4 of bottle 1 downwards corresponds to a position in which the entire bottom 49 of the bottle is higher than the entire neck 4 of bottle 1.
[0139] This movable shutter 7 is also movable so as to move, from the open position to the closed position, under the sole effect of gravity, when the cap 3 is unscrewed and removed from the neck 4 of this bottle 1, when the aroma reservoir 5 is placed around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, when tilting this bottle 1 from an inclined position with the neck 4 downwards to a vertical position with the neck 4 upwards.
[0140] This obturator 7 of the reservoir 5 is movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between a position of simultaneous closure of all these orifices 6, preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, and a position of simultaneous opening of all these orifices 6 allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, towards the top of this bottle 1, so as to move, from the closed position to the open position, under the sole effect of gravity, during a tilting of this reservoir 5 corresponding to a tilting of its axis of at least 110 degrees from a vertical position of its axis, or of at least 120 degrees from a vertical position of its axis, or of at least 130 degrees from a vertical position of its axis.
[0141] For the reservoir 5, this vertical position of the axis of the reservoir 5 corresponds to the position of the reservoir 5 placed around the neck 4 of the bottle 1 standing upright with the neck 4 of the bottle 1 pointing upwards.
[0142] This movable obturator 7 is also movable so as to move, from the open position to the closed position, under the sole effect of gravity, when this bottle 1 is tilted from an inclined position with the neck 4 downwards to a vertical position with the neck 4 upwards, when this reservoir 5 is tilted corresponding to a tilt of its axis of at least 110 degrees towards a vertical position of its axis.
[0143] The obturator 7 is annular or partially annular about an axis of the obturator 7, so that it can be positioned around the neck 4 of the bottle 1. Thus, the movable obturator 7 has an annular shape that complements the annular shape of the reservoir 5 with which it cooperates. In this way, when the movable obturator 7 moves relative to the reservoir 5, the complementarity between the annular shape of the movable obturator 7 and the annular shape of the reservoir 5 allows for improved guidance of the movement of the movable obturator 7 relative to the reservoir 5.
[0144] The shutter 7 is movable according to a translation, preferably a translation along the axis of the shutter 7. Thus, the very simple movement of the movable shutter 7 can be easily carried out under the effect of gravity alone.
[0145] The shutter 7 could also have at least one plate (not shown in [Fig.2]), this plate being able to close all or part of the diffusion orifices 6, the plate would be in the shape of a complete or at least partial crown, and the plate would be orthogonal to the axis of the shutter 7. Thus, the plate of the movable shutter 7 could close and open orifices 6 located on the upper face 51s of the reservoir 5.
[0146] The obturator 7 has at least one first wall 76, this first wall 76 being advantageously able to close all or part of the diffusion orifices 6, preferably the first wall 76 is in the form of a complete or at least partial cylinder, and / or preferably the first wall 76 is parallel to the axis of the obturator 7. Thus, the first wall 76, advantageously cylindrical, of the movable obturator 7 can close and open orifices 6 located on the concentric external face 5 If of the reservoir 5.
[0147] The first wall 76, which can close all or part of the diffusion orifices 6, is extended on the one hand by a first protrusion 77 which butts against the reservoir 5 in the closed position of the shutter 7 so as to stop the stroke of the shutter 7, and on the other hand by a second protrusion 78 which butts against the reservoir 5 in the open position of the shutter 7 so as to stop the stroke of the shutter 7. Thus, the first and second protrusions 77 and 78 form the two extreme stops at the end of the stroke of the movement of the movable shutter 7, corresponding respectively to the closed and open positions of the movable shutter 7.
[0148] The shutter 7 comprises one or more metal weights 79a and 79b arranged to increase the effect of gravity during the movement of the shutter 7. Thus, the effect of gravity is amplified by the presence of the weights 79a and 79b. For example, the first weight 79a is fixed to the upper part of the first wall 76, in particular on the first protrusion 77. For example, the second weight 79b is fixed to the lower part of the first wall 76, in particular on the second protrusion 78.
[0149] The diffuser 2 is positioned around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, so as to block its translation along the vertical axis Z, by one or more fasteners 8. This or these fasteners 8 are one or more clips 80 which are arranged to clip under the collar 41 of the neck 4 of this bottle 1, so as to place the reservoir 5 around the neck 4 of this bottle 1. The clips 80, here arranged at two levels and of annular shape, clamp the collar 41 together, thus blocking the movement of the diffuser 2 in translation along the vertical axis Z which is also the axis of symmetry of the bottle 1 and the diffuser 2.The elasticity of the clips 80 allows both easy installation of the diffuser 2 around the neck 4 and secure locking along the vertical axis Z, preventing the diffuser from sliding along the vertical axis Z when the bottle 1 is inverted (neck 4 oriented obliquely but rather downwards) and the user is drinking, thus avoiding any interference. The application of limited but deliberate force by the user releases the clips 80 and frees the collar 41, allowing the diffuser to move freely up towards the top of the neck 4. This is because the collar 41 has the largest outer diameter of the neck 4, which is both larger than the outer diameter of the safety ring 30 and larger than the maximum outer diameter of the external thread 40 of the neck 4.
[0150] In one option, the reservoir 5 and / or the diffuser 2 are annular in shape, making a complete rotation around their axis. Once placed around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, the annular reservoir 5 and / or diffuser 2 make a complete rotation around the neck 4 of the bottle 1. Thus, the reservoir 5 and the diffuser 2 are positioned more stably around the neck 4 of the bottle 1.
[0151] In another option, the reservoir 5 and / or the diffuser 2 is partially annular in shape, making between 60% and 90% of a complete turn around their axis. Thus, a good compromise is achieved between, on the one hand, the positioning stability of the reservoir 5 and the diffuser 2 around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, and on the other hand, a sufficiently large clearance space, in the empty part where the missing part (the hole) of the annular shape is located, is arranged to receive the cap 3 once unscrewed and removed from the neck 4 of the bottle 1, even when this cap 3 remains attached to a safety ring 30 located around the neck 4 of the bottle 1 by a relatively short link 31.
[0152] The aroma diffusion orifices 6 are regularly distributed around the vertical axis Z of the annular or partially annular shape. Thus, regardless of the position of the fingers of the user's hand holding the bottle 1 when the user drinks the contents of the bottle 1, the aroma diffusion around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, towards the nose of the user drinking the contents of the bottle 1, remains significant, even if a minority of these diffusion orifices 6 might be temporarily plugged by one or more fingers of the user covering them at that moment.
[0153] There are at least 4, or at least 6, or at least 10 aroma diffusion orifices. Thus, regardless of the position of the fingers of the hand of the user holding the bottle 1 when the user drinks the contents of the bottle 1, the diffusion of aroma around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, towards the nose of the user who drinks the contents of the bottle 1, remains significant, regardless of the position of the user's fingers.
[0154] The clips 80 are evenly distributed around the Z-axis of the annular or partially annular shape. Thus, the diffuser is positioned even more stably around the neck 4 of the bottle 1.
[0155] There are at least 2, or at least 3, or at least 4, or at least 6 clips 80. Thus, the diffuser 2 is positioned around the neck 4 of the bottle 1 in an even more stable manner.
[0156] In one option, part of the clips 80 or each clip 80 is formed by an internal protrusion which is oriented towards the inside of the annular shape of the reservoir 5, from the inner face 5 li of the wall 51 of the reservoir 5 or from the inner face of the wall of the support of the reservoir 5, where there is such a support located under the reservoir 5. This internal protrusion 80 is made of a more elastic material than the material of the wall 51 of the reservoir 5 or of the support wall of the reservoir 5. Thus, the diffuser 2 is positioned around the neck 4 of the bottle 1 in an even more stable manner.The positioning of the diffuser 2 in its clipping / locking position is facilitated by the snapping of the clips 80 on either side (along the Z axis) of the collar 4L. Indeed, the internal protrusion 80, due to its elastic deformability properties, allows the diffuser 2 to engage under the collar 41 of the bottle 1 in its movement towards locking, and when the diffuser 2 is pulled from its locking position to its unlocking position, this diffuser 2 resists removal up to a certain (reasonable) force of removal.
[0157] The aroma reservoir 5 can be a replaceable consumable that is detachable from the rest of the aroma diffuser, and in particular from the reservoir support 5 included in the diffuser 2. Thus, once empty, the aroma reservoir 5 can be replaced without having to replace the rest of the diffuser 2, and therefore without replacing the reservoir support 5, which is more economical for the user and more environmentally friendly for society. The consumer then only has to replace the reservoir 5, which can be sold separately as a replaceable consumable, after repeated use has depleted it of its aroma. This aroma reservoir 5 can be marketed with packaging covering at least the diffusion openings 6. The rest of the diffuser 2, and in particular the reservoir support 5, is then only intended to be replaced after a certain wear and tear. In this way, responsible durability of the diffuser 2 and its various components is ensured. Of course, the reservoir bodies 5, or more generally, the diffusers 2 according to the invention, can be marked and / or colored to indicate the nature of their contents.
[0158] The clip(s) 80 are arranged so as to be able to clip under the collar 41 of the neck 4 of this bottle 1, and advantageously also on the collar, so as to clamp this collar 41 between them, so as to place the reservoir 5 around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, below the level of the bottom of the external thread 40 surrounding the neck 4 of this bottle 1. Thus, even with a permanent safety ring 30, located around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, to which the cap 3 remains attached even once unscrewed from the neck 4, the cap 3 can be removed from the neck 4 without being hindered by the presence of the reservoir 5, whether the connection between the safety ring 30 and the cap 3 is short, intermediate, or long.
[0159] In one option, the aroma is a fruity fragrance. Thus, the sensation of drinking water becomes even more pleasant for the user.
[0160] In another option, the flavoring includes a component that has an effect: either appetite-suppressing, taste desensitizing, or taste-retraining. Thus, the simple act of drinking water can enhance or even restore other sensations useful to the user. Preferably, the flavoring includes at least one component and / or at least one essential oil, of one or more of the following scents: peppermint, lemon, grapefruit, cinnamon, rosemary, clove, green mandarin, thyme. Thus, the simple act of drinking water can trigger other beneficial effects in the user, beyond pleasure, at the cost of a very limited inhalation of essential oil vapor, instead of having to actually drink a few drops of that essential oil.
[0161] In one option, at least the reservoir 5, and preferably also the diffuser 2, is or are made of natural cellulose. Thus, the reservoir 5 and / or the diffuser 2 are less expensive and more environmentally friendly, as they are more easily recyclable.
[0162] In one option, the reservoir 5 has at least two compartments that can release their respective aromas sequentially, alternately, or simultaneously. The movable shutter 7 then has several positions: a first position in which the diffusion orifices 6 of all compartments are closed; and / or a second position in which the diffusion orifices 6 of a first compartment are opened, simultaneously closing the diffusion orifices 6 of a second compartment; and / or a third position in which the diffusion orifices 6 of the second compartment are opened, simultaneously closing the diffusion orifices 6 of the first compartment; and / or a Fourth position of opening of the 6 diffusion orifices of all compartments. Thus, the release of the respective aromas of the two compartments is: • either sequential, with the aroma being the same in both compartments, which allows the aroma to last longer and retain its freshness and organoleptic qualities for longer, • or alternatively, the aromas being different between the two compartments, allowing the user to alternate the aroma over time, for example switching from strawberry to orange, • either joint, with different aromas between the two compartments, allowing the user to mix the two aromas together in their nasal cavity, for example combining strawberry perfume with mint perfume.
[0163] In one option, the diffuser 2 contains a capsule of flavoring liquid or gel, this capsule being made of a sufficiently brittle material, and the reservoir 5 being made of a sufficiently flexible material, so that the capsule can be broken by mechanical pressure from the user's hand or fingers upon first use. The material of the reservoir 5 is sufficiently more flexible than the material of the capsule, so that reasonable pressure from the hand of an adult user on the reservoir 5 transmits enough force to break the capsule contained within the reservoir 5. Thus, the flavor is released only upon first use, thereby better preserving its freshness and organoleptic qualities before use, and moreover, in a simple and effective manner.
[0164] Fig. 3 schematically represents a side view of a beverage device comprising an aroma diffuser according to the invention, with a second type of aroma reservoir and with a second type of movable shutter of the aroma diffuser on the beverage device.
[0165] Bottle 1 is a disposable water bottle, in particular a disposable plastic water bottle, with a capacity of between 0.2 and 2 litres.
[0166] The aroma reservoir 5 includes a chamber 59 and aroma diffusion orifices 6, among which are several first aroma diffusion orifices 61, as well as a second orifice or several second aroma diffusion orifices 62.
[0167] The first orifices 61 are oriented outwards from the annular shape of the reservoir 5, i.e. the annular shape of the reservoir 5, and even towards the space above the reservoir 5. The reservoir 5 could also include other first orifices 61 in the outermost concentric wall 66 of the annular shape of the reservoir 5 which would then also be oriented outwards from the annular shape of the reservoir 5, and even towards the space around the reservoir 5.
[0168] The second orifice 62 or the second orifices 62 is oriented or are oriented towards the interior of the annular shape of the reservoir 5, i.e. towards the space 44 located at the interior of the annular shape presented by the reservoir 5, that is to say again towards the space 44 located at the center of the annular shape of the reservoir 5, that is to say finally towards the space 44 located inside or at the center of the innermost concentric wall 64 of the reservoir 5.
[0169] The reservoir 5 includes several first aroma diffusion orifices 61, then arranged around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, oriented outwards from the neck 4 of this bottle 1, so as to permit aroma diffusion out of the reservoir, 5 around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, outwards from the neck 4 of this bottle 1, towards the top of this bottle 1, so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by breathing through the nose, by a user drinking the mineral water from this bottle 1.
[0170] The reservoir 5 includes a second orifice 62 or several second aroma diffusion orifices 62, then oriented(s) towards the inside of the neck 4 of this bottle 1 or oriented(s) towards the inside of the space 42 located above the neck 4 and in the extension of the neck 4 of this bottle 1, so as to allow aroma diffusion out of the reservoir 5, towards the inside of the neck 4 of this bottle 1 or oriented(s) towards the inside of the space 42 located above the neck 4 and in the extension of the neck 4 of this bottle 1, so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by retronasalization, by a user drinking the mineral water from this bottle 1.
[0171] In one option, the aroma reservoir 5 includes only one second aroma diffusion orifice 62, either oriented towards the inside of the neck 4 of this bottle 1 or oriented towards the inside of the space 42 located above the neck 4 and in line with the neck 4 of this bottle 1. Thus, retronasalization is satisfactorily achieved with a minimum number of diffusion orifices, here only one, because on the internal side, the fingers of the user's hand, whatever their position, cannot interfere with the aroma diffusion.
[0172] The aroma reservoir 5 comprises two or more concentric cylindrical walls, the second orifice 62 or the second aroma diffusion orifices 62, then oriented(s) towards the inside of the neck 4 of this bottle 1 or oriented(s) towards the inside of the space 42 located above the neck 4 and in the extension of the neck 4 of this bottle 1, belong or belong to the innermost concentric cylindrical wall 64 of the reservoir 5. Thus, retronasalization is obtained satisfactorily, without risk of the liquid exiting through the neck 4 of the bottle 1 entering the aroma reservoir 5, even though the aroma exits through the internal orifice(s) 62 to enter the flow of liquid through the neck 4 going from the inside of the bottle 1 towards the inside of the user's mouth.
[0173] The aroma reservoir 5 has a generally annular shape with a U-shaped cross-section, the U having two legs 58 that are not symmetrical, with these two legs 58 of the U oriented downwards, when the reservoir 5 is placed around the neck 4 of this Bottle 1. The inner leg 58a is slid inside the neck 4, while the outer leg 58b is slid outside the neck 4. The two legs 58a and 58b are connected by a horizontal portion 57, which has a three-dimensional crown shape. The outer leg 58b of the U is positioned outside the neck of the bottle so that it can diffuse the aroma through the external openings 61, while the inner leg 58a of the U is positioned inside the neck 4 of bottle 1 so that it can diffuse the aroma through the internal openings 62.
[0174] In one option, the first orifices 61 on the one hand and the second orifice 62 or the second orifices 62 on the other hand are connected to the same chamber 59 of the reservoir, this same chamber 59 containing the same aroma to be diffused. Thus, the user smells only one and the same aroma, but the sensation is intensified because it is felt simultaneously by inhalation and retronasal inhalation.
[0175] In another option, the first orifices 61 on the one hand and the second orifice 62 or the second orifices 62 on the other hand are connected to two separate chambers in the reservoir 5, these two separate chambers each containing two different aromas to be diffused. Thus, the user can simultaneously experience a mixture of two different fragrances in their nasal cavity, one arriving by inhalation through the front of their nasal cavity and the other arriving by retronasal inhalation through the back of their nasal cavity. By adjusting the concentration of the mixture, the user can be provided with various interesting sensations.
[0176] The diffuser 2 includes a shutter 7 of the reservoir 5, of the first orifices 61 and / or of the second orifice(s) 62, this shutter 7 of the reservoir 5 is movable relative to the reservoir 5 by translation along an axis of translation parallel to the axis of the annular or partially annular shape of the reservoir 5 of the diffuser 2 and also parallel to the axis of the annular or partially annular shape of the shutter 7 of the diffuser 2.
[0177] On [Fig.3], a cylindrical water bottle 1 terminates upwards, along the Z axis, with a neck 4 of the bottle 1 also cylindrical having an external thread 40 of the neck 4 surrounding the neck 4, external thread 40 under which is a collar 41 of the neck 4 which is annular. The annular collar 41 encircles the neck 4, either continuously or via several outwardly facing protrusions radially distributed around the neck 4. Between the external thread 40 and the annular collar 41 is a locking ring 30, also annular, which is connected by a tab-type locking link (not shown in Fig. 1) to the cap 3. The cap 3 has an internal thread corresponding to the external thread 40 of the neck 4, allowing the cap 3 to screw onto the neck 4. The annular locking ring 30 also encircles the neck 4. The neck 4 terminates at its upper end with a opening 43 through which the liquid contained in the bottle, for example water, can flow out of the bottle 1, towards the outside of the bottle 1.
[0178] The aroma diffuser 2 is annular and includes an aroma reservoir 5, also annular, and its support, also annular. The annular aroma diffuser 2, the annular aroma reservoir 5, and its annular support are all positioned around the neck 4 and at least partially encircle the neck 4. The reservoir 5 includes aroma diffusion orifices 6 that allow the aroma contained in the reservoir 5 to be diffused outwards from the reservoir 5 and thus outwards from the diffuser 2. The orifices 6 are arranged on the inner side wall 64 of the reservoir 5 (as seen in [Fig. 3], these are the second orifices 62) and on the upper wall 65 of the reservoir 5 (as also seen in [Fig. 3], these are the first orifices 61). The orifices 6, that is to say the first orifices 61 and the second orifices 62, of the reservoir 5, can be opened or closed by a movable obturator 7.
[0179] The opening 43 of the neck 4 is closed by a screw cap 3 which is shown in the unscrewed position on the [Fig.3].
[0180] The obturator 7 is movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between, on the one hand, a position of simultaneous closure of all the orifices 6, including the first orifices 61 and the second orifices 62, thus preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, and on the other hand, a position of simultaneous opening of all the orifices 6, including the first orifices 61 and the second orifices 62, allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, on the one hand around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, and on the other hand also towards the top of this bottle 1.
[0181] The obturator 7 of the reservoir 5 is movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between a position of simultaneous closure of all these orifices 6, preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, and a position of simultaneous opening of all these orifices 6 allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, towards the top of this bottle 1, so as to move, from the closed position to the open position, first under the effect of the flow of water through the neck out of the bottle (main effect) and also under the effect of gravity (secondary effect), when the cap 3 is unscrewed and removed from the neck 4 of this bottle 1, when the aroma reservoir 5 is placed around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, when tilting this bottle 1 from a vertical position with the neck 4 upwards to an inclined position with the neck 4 downwards.
[0182] For bottle 1, an inclined position with the neck 4 of bottle 1 downwards corresponds to a position in which the entire bottom 49 of the bottle is higher than the entire neck 4 of bottle 1.
[0183] This movable shutter 7 is also movable so as to move from the open position to the closed position, initially under the effect of the water flow by the neck out of the bottle (main effect) and also under the effect of gravity (secondary effect), when the cap 3 is unscrewed and removed from the neck 4 of this bottle 1, when the aroma reservoir 5 is placed around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, when tilting this bottle 1 from an inclined position with the neck 4 downwards to a vertical position with the neck 4 upwards.
[0184] This obturator 7 of the reservoir 5 is movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between a position of simultaneous closure of all these orifices 6, preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, and a position of simultaneous opening of all these orifices 6 allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, towards the top of this bottle 1, so as to move, from the closed position to the open position, first under the effect of the flow of water through the neck out of the bottle (main effect) and also under the effect of gravity (secondary effect), during a tilting of this reservoir 5 corresponding to a tilting of its axis of at least 110 degrees from a vertical position of its axis, or of at least 120 degrees from a vertical position of its axis, or of at least 130 degrees from a vertical position of its axis.
[0185] For the reservoir 5, this vertical position of the axis of the reservoir 5 corresponds to the position of the reservoir 5 placed around the neck 4 of the bottle 1 standing upright with the neck 4 of the bottle 1 pointing upwards.
[0186] This movable obturator 7 is also movable so as to move, from the open position to the closed position, first under the effect of the flow of water through the neck out of the bottle (main effect) and also under the effect of gravity (secondary effect), when this bottle 1 is tilted from an inclined position with the neck 4 downwards to a vertical position with the neck 4 upwards, when this reservoir 5 is tilted corresponding to a tilt of its axis of at least 110 degrees towards a vertical position of its axis.
[0187] The obturator 7 is annular or partially annular about an axis of the obturator 7, so that it can be positioned around the neck 4 of the bottle 1. Thus, the movable obturator 7 has an annular shape that complements the annular shape of the reservoir 5 with which it cooperates. In this way, when the movable obturator 7 moves relative to the reservoir 5, the complementarity between the annular (or partially annular) shape of the movable obturator 7 and the annular (or partially annular) shape of the reservoir 5 allows for improved guidance of the movement of the movable obturator 7 relative to the reservoir 5.
[0188] The shutter 7 is movable according to a translation, preferably a translation along the axis of the shutter 7. Thus, the very simple movement of the movable shutter 7 can be easily carried out first under the effect of the flow of water through the neck out of the bottle (main effect) and also under the effect of gravity (secondary effect). The main effect is primary and the side effect is secondary, in the sense that the main effect is more important, advantageously 2 or 3 times more important, than the side effect.
[0189] The shutter 7 has at least one plate 705, this plate 705 being able to close all or part of the diffusion orifices 6, the plate 705 is in the shape of a complete or at least partial ring, and the plate 705 is orthogonal to the axis of the shutter 7. Thus, the plate 705 of the movable shutter 7 can close and open orifices 6 located on the upper face 65 of the reservoir 5.
[0190] The obturator 7 has at least one first wall 706, this first wall 706 being advantageously able to close all or part of the diffusion orifices, preferably the first wall 706 is in the form of a complete or at least partial cylinder, and / or preferably the first wall 706 is parallel to the axis of the obturator 7. Thus, the first wall 706, advantageously cylindrical, of the movable obturator 7 can close and open orifices located on the internal concentric face 64 of the reservoir 5.
[0191] The first wall 706, which can close all or part of the diffusion orifices 6, is extended by a first protrusion that abuts against the reservoir 5 in the closed position of the shutter 7 so as to stop the movement of the shutter 7; in [Fig. 3], the plate 705 acts as this first protrusion. The first wall 706 is extended by a second protrusion 707 that abuts against the reservoir 5 in the open position of the shutter 7 so as to stop the movement of the shutter 7. Thus, the first and second protrusions form the two extreme end stops for the movement of the movable shutter 7, corresponding respectively to the closed and open positions of the movable shutter 7.
[0192] The obturator 7 could also have at least one second wall, this second wall being able to advantageously close all or part of the diffusion orifices, the second wall would be in the form of a complete or at least partial cylinder, and the second wall would be parallel to the axis of the obturator 7. Thus, this second wall, advantageously cylindrical, of the movable obturator could then close and open orifices which would be located on the external concentric face of the reservoir.
[0193] In a first alternative, the first cylindrical wall 706 of the movable shutter 7 comprises one or more protrusions 701, for example in the form of an inner annular (or partially annular) rim 701, oriented towards the interior of the annular shape of the shutter 7. These protrusions 701 or this inner annular rim 701 may be inclined with respect to the axis of the shutter 7, for example inclined downwards towards the neck 4 of the bottle 1, when the diffuser 2 is placed around the neck 4 of the bottle 1. When the user drinks the water from the bottle 1, the water flowing through the neck 4 of this bottle 1 pushes on the rim 701 (or on the protuberances 701), so that the movable shutter 7 is mechanically driven, in addition to the effect of gravity of its own weight, to move from its position of closing the diffusion orifices 6 to its position of opening the diffusion orifices 6.
[0194] In a second alternative, the first cylindrical wall 706 of the movable obturator 7 includes one or more protrusions 702, for example in the form of an inner annular (or partially annular) rim 702, oriented towards the interior of the annular shape of the obturator 7. These protrusions 702 or this inner annular rim 702 may include one or more cavities, so as to have a convex (or concave) shape, in particular oriented towards the top (or the bottom) of the neck 4 of the bottle 1, when the diffuser 2 is placed around the neck 4 of the bottle 1.When the user drinks the water from bottle 1, the water flowing from the neck 4 of this bottle 1 pushes on the rim 702 (or on the protrusions 702), so that the movable shutter 7 is mechanically driven, in addition to the effect of gravity from its own weight, to move from its position of closing the diffusion orifices 6 to its position of opening the diffusion orifices 6.
[0195] In a third alternative, the first cylindrical wall 706 of the movable shutter 7 comprises one or more protrusions 703, for example in the form of an inner annular (or partially annular) rim 703, oriented towards the interior of the annular shape of the shutter 7. These protrusions 703 or this inner annular rim 703 may be orthogonal to the axis of the shutter 7 when the diffuser 2 is placed around the neck 4 of the bottle 1. When the user drinks the water from the bottle 1, the water flowing through the neck 4 of this bottle 1 pushes on the rim 703 (or on the protrusions 703), so that the movable shutter 7 is mechanically driven, in addition to the effect of gravity from its own weight, to move from its position of closing the orifices. 6 diffusion towards its opening position of the 6 diffusion orifices.
[0196] The movable shutter 7 may include orifices 70. In order for the movable shutter 7 to function, the cap 3 must first be unscrewed and removed from the neck 4 of the bottle 1.
[0197] To obtain a position of simultaneous closure of all the orifices 6, including the first orifices 61 and the second orifices 62, thus preventing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, it is sufficient to have slid in translation the single movable obturator 7 downwards along the vertical axis Z to the position shown in [Fig.3], the solid wall of the plate 705 covering and thus closing the first orifices 61 of diffusion of the reservoir 5, the orifices 70 of the first wall 706 being offset with respect to the second orifices 62 of the reservoir 5, so that a solid part of the first wall 706 covers and closes the second orifices 62 of the inner side wall 64 of the reservoir 5.
[0198] Similarly, to obtain a position of simultaneous opening of all the orifices 6 (not corresponding to that shown in [Fig.3]) including the first orifices 61 and the second orifices 62, thus allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, it is sufficient to slide in translation the single movable obturator 7 upwards along the vertical axis Z from the position shown in [Fig.3], until the position where the protuberance 707 butts against the lower part of the reservoir 5, the solid wall of the plate 705 no longer covering and thus opening the first orifices 61 of diffusion of the reservoir 5, the orifices 70 of the first wall 706 being opposite the second orifices 62 of the reservoir 5, so as to open these second orifices 62.
[0199] The first orifices 61 are external and arranged so as to allow the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, around the neck 4 of this bottle 1, towards the top of this bottle 1, the obturator 7 of the reservoir 5, movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between an opening position of this or these first external orifices 61 and a closing position of this or these first external orifices 61. Thus, the single movement of a single element, the obturator 7, allows all the first external orifices 61 to be opened or closed at the same time.
[0200] The second orifices 62 are internal and arranged so as to allow the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir 5, inside the neck 4 of this bottle 1, the obturator 7 of the reservoir 5, movable, relative to the reservoir 5, between an opening position of this or these second internal orifices 62 and a closing position of this or these second internal orifices 62. Thus, the single movement of a single element, the obturator 7, allows all the second internal orifices 62 to be opened or closed at the same time.
[0201] The first aroma diffusion orifices 61 in the upper wall 65 of the reservoir 5 are regularly distributed around the vertical axis Z of the annular or partially annular shape. Thus, regardless of the position of the fingers of the user's hand holding the bottle 1 when the user drinks the contents of the bottle 1, the aroma diffusion around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, towards the nose of the user drinking the contents of the bottle 1, remains significant, even if a minority of these first diffusion orifices 61 could be temporarily blocked by one or more fingers of the user covering them at that time.
[0202] The first aroma diffusion orifices 61 in the upper wall 65 of the reservoir 5 are at least 4, or at least 6, or at least 10 in number. Thus, regardless of the position of the fingers of the user's hand holding the bottle 1 when the user drinks the contents of the bottle 1, the aroma diffusion around the neck 4 of the bottle 1, towards the nose of the user drinking the contents of the bottle 1, remains significant, regardless of the position of the user's fingers. The second aroma diffusion orifices 62 of the inner side wall 64 of the reservoir 5 are for example 2 in number, however there could also be only one.
[0203] The aroma reservoir 5 can be a replaceable consumable that is detachable from the rest of the aroma diffuser, and in particular from the reservoir support 5 included in the diffuser 2. Thus, once empty, the aroma reservoir 5 can be replaced without having to replace the rest of the diffuser 2, and therefore without replacing the reservoir support 5, which is more economical for the user and more environmentally friendly for society. The consumer then only has to replace the reservoir 5, which can be sold separately as a replaceable consumable, after repeated use has depleted it of its aroma. This aroma reservoir 5 can be marketed with packaging covering at least the diffusion openings 6. The rest of the diffuser 2, and in particular the reservoir support 5, is then only intended to be replaced after a certain amount of wear. In this way, responsible durability of the diffuser 2 and its various components is ensured.Of course, the reservoir bodies 5, or more generally, the diffusers 2 according to the invention, can be marked and / or colored to indicate the nature of their contents.
[0204] In one option, the aroma is a fruity fragrance. Thus, the sensation of drinking water becomes even more pleasant for the user.
[0205] In another option, the flavoring includes a component that has an effect: either appetite-suppressing, taste desensitizing, or taste-retraining. Thus, the simple act of drinking water can enhance or even restore other sensations useful to the user. Preferably, the flavoring includes at least one component and / or at least one essential oil, of one or more of the following scents: peppermint, lemon, grapefruit, cinnamon, rosemary, clove, green mandarin, thyme. Thus, the simple act of drinking water can trigger other beneficial effects in the user, beyond pleasure, at the cost of a very limited inhalation of essential oil vapor, instead of having to actually drink a few drops of that essential oil.
[0206] In one option, at least the reservoir 5, and preferably also the diffuser 2, is or are made of natural cellulose. Thus, the reservoir 5 and / or the diffuser 2 are less expensive and more environmentally friendly, as they are more easily recyclable.
[0207] In one option, the reservoir 5 has at least two compartments that can release their respective aromas sequentially, alternately, or simultaneously. The movable shutter 7 then has several positions: a first position in which the diffusion orifices 6 of all compartments are closed, and / or a second position in which the diffusion orifices 6 of a first compartment are opened, simultaneously closing the diffusion orifices 6 of a second compartment, and / or a A third position of opening the diffusion orifices 6 of the second compartment simultaneously closes the diffusion orifices 6 of the first compartment, and / or a fourth position of opening the diffusion orifices 6 of all compartments. Thus, the release of the respective aromas of the two compartments is: • either sequential, with the aroma being the same in both compartments, which allows the aroma to last longer and retain its freshness and organoleptic qualities for longer, • or alternatively, the aromas being different between the two compartments, allowing the user to alternate the aroma over time, for example switching from strawberry to orange, • either joint, with different aromas between the two compartments, allowing the user to mix the two aromas together in their nasal cavity, for example combining strawberry perfume with mint perfume.
[0208] In one option, the first compartment can be arranged to include both first orifices 61 and second orifices 62, while the second compartment can also be arranged to include both first orifices 61 and second orifices 62. In an alternative to the previous option, the first compartment can be arranged to include only first orifices 61 but no second orifices 62, while the second compartment can also be arranged to include only second orifices 62 but no first orifices 61.
[0209] In one option, the diffuser 2 contains a capsule of flavoring liquid or gel, this capsule being made of a sufficiently brittle material, and the reservoir 5 being made of a sufficiently flexible material, so that the capsule can be broken by mechanical pressure from the user's hand or fingers on the reservoir during the first use. The material of the reservoir 5 is sufficiently more flexible than the material of the capsule, so that reasonable pressure from the hand of an adult user on the reservoir 5 transmits enough force to break the capsule contained in the reservoir 5. Thus, the flavor is released only during the first use, thereby better preserving the freshness and organoleptic qualities of the flavor before use, and moreover in a simple and effective manner.
Claims
Demands
1. Aroma diffuser, for a disposable water bottle, in particular a disposable plastic water bottle, with a capacity between 0.2 and 2 liters, and comprising a neck (4) surrounded by a thread (40) for a screw cap (3), comprising: a reservoir (5) of aroma, • of annular or partially annular shape so as to be able to be placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • and comprising several aroma diffusion orifices (6), a tank (7) shutter (5), • mobile, relative to the reservoir (5), between: • a position of simultaneous closure of all these orifices (6), preventing the diffusion of aroma outside the reservoir (5), • and a position of simultaneous opening of all these orifices (6) allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir (5), around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), towards the top of this bottle (1), • so as to move from the closed position to the open position, • when the cap (3) is unscrewed and removed from the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • when the aroma reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • when this bottle (1) is tilted from a vertical position with the neck (4) pointing upwards to an inclined position with the neck (4) pointing downwards, • this movable shutter (7) being then automatically and mechanically driven by the
2.
3. minus a force triggered or released by said tipping, • one or more fixings (8) of the diffuser (2) to this bottle (1), arranged so as to place the reservoir (5) around the neck (4) of this bottle (1). Aroma diffuser according to claim 1, characterized in that: • This movable shutter (7) is also movable so as to: • to move from the open position to the closed position, • when the cap (3) is unscrewed and removed from the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • when the aroma reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • when this bottle (1) is tilted from an inclined position with the neck (4) pointing downwards to a vertical position with the neck (4) pointing upwards, • this movable shutter (7) being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting. Aroma diffuser, for a disposable water bottle, in particular a disposable plastic water bottle, with a capacity between 0.2 and 2 liters, and comprising a neck (4) surrounded by a thread (40) for a screw cap (3), comprising: • a reservoir (5) of aroma, • of annular or partially annular shape around an axis (A) of the reservoir (5), so as to be able to be placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • and comprising several aroma diffusion orifices (6), • a tank (7) shutter (5), mobile, relative to the reservoir (5), between:
4. • a position of simultaneous closure of all these orifices (6), preventing the diffusion of aroma outside the reservoir (5), • and a position of simultaneous opening of all these orifices (6) allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir (5), around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), towards the top of this bottle (1), • so as to move from the closed position to the open position, • during a tilting of this reservoir (5) corresponding to a tilt of the axis (A) of the reservoir (5) of at least 110 degrees from a vertical position of the axis (A) of the reservoir (5), • this movable shutter (7) being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting, • one or more fixings (8) of the diffuser (2) to this bottle (1), arranged so as to place the reservoir (5) around the neck (4) of this bottle (1). Aroma diffuser according to claim 3, characterized in that: • This movable shutter (7) is also movable so as to: • move from the open position to the closed position, • when this tank is tilted (5) corresponding to a tilting of the axis (A) of the tank (5) of at least 110 degrees from a vertical position of the axis (A) of the tank (5), • this movable shutter (7) being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said switchover.
5. Aroma diffuser according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that this movable shutter (7) is then automatically and mechanically driven by the flow of water through the neck (4) out of the bottle (1) pushing on a part (701, 702, 703) of this movable shutter (7) and / or by the effect of gravity on this movable shutter (7), during said tilting.
6. Aroma diffuser according to claim 5, characterized in that this movable shutter (7) is then automatically and mechanically driven at least by the flow of water through the neck (4) out of the bottle (1) pushing on a part (701, 702, 703) of this movable shutter (7), during said tilting.
7. Aroma diffuser according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: • this movable shutter (7) is then automatically and mechanically driven at least by the effect of gravity on this movable shutter (7), during said tilting, • and preferably, this movable shutter (7) is then automatically and mechanically driven by the sole effect of gravity on this movable shutter (7), during said tilting.
8. Aroma diffuser according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that: • the shutter (7) is annular or partially annular in shape around an axis (B) of the shutter (7), • so as to be able to be placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • said part (701, 702, 703) of this movable shutter (7): • either comprises one or more protuberances oriented towards the inside of said annular or partially annular shape, • or is formed by an annular or partially annular rim which is oriented towards the inside of said annular or partially annular shape.
9. Aroma diffuser according to claim 8, characterized in that: • either said protuberance(s) is / are inclined with respect to the axis (B) of the obturator (7), either upwards with respect to the reservoir (5), or downwards with respect to the reservoir (5), or said rim is inclined with respect to the axis (B) of the obturator (7), either upwards with respect to the reservoir (5), or downwards with respect to the reservoir (5), • or, said protuberance(s) is / are orthogonal with respect to the axis (B) of the obturator (7), or said rim is orthogonal with respect to the axis (B) of the obturator (7), • or said protuberance(s) has a concave or convex shape, or said rim has a concave or convex shape.
10. Aroma diffuser according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the obturator (7) is annular or partially annular in shape around an axis (B) of the obturator (7), so as to be able to be placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1).
11. Aroma diffuser according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shutter (7) of the reservoir (5) is movable relative to the reservoir (5) by translation, preferably by translation along the axis (B) of the shutter (7).
12. Aroma diffuser according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the shutter (7) has at least one plate (705), this plate (705) advantageously being able to close all or part of the diffusion orifices (6), • preferably the plate (705) is in the form of a complete or at least partial crown, • and / or preferably the plate (705) is orthogonal to the axis (B) of the shutter (7).
13. Aroma diffuser according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the shutter (7) has at least one first wall (706), this first wall (706) advantageously being able to close all or part of the diffusion orifices (6), • preferably the first wall (706) is in the form of a complete or at least partial cylinder, • and / or preferably the first wall (706) parallel to the axis (B) of the shutter (7).
14. Aroma diffuser according to claim 13, characterized in that: • the first wall (706) being able to close all or part of the diffusion orifices (6), • is extended by a first protrusion abutting against the reservoir (5) in the closed position of the shutter (7) so as to stop the stroke of the shutter, the first protrusion being advantageously orthogonal to the first wall (706), • and is extended by a second protrusion abutting against the reservoir (5) in the open position of the shutter (7) so as to stop the stroke of the shutter, the second protrusion being advantageously orthogonal to the first wall (706).
15. Aroma diffuser according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the diffusion orifices (6) comprise: • several first aroma diffusion orifices (61), arranged around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), oriented outwards from the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • so as to permit aroma diffusion out of the reservoir (5), around from the neck (4) of this bottle (1), outwards from the neck (4) of this bottle (1), towards the top of this bottle (1), when the reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by breathing through the nose, by a
16. user drinking the water from this bottle (1), • and a second orifice (62) or several second aroma diffusion orifices (62), then directed(s) towards the inside of the neck (4) of this bottle (1) or directed(s) towards the inside of the space (42) located above the neck (4) and in line with the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • so as to allow aroma diffusion out of the reservoir (5), towards the inside of the neck (4) of this bottle (1) or towards the inside of the space (42) located above the neck (4) and in line with the neck (4) of this bottle (1), when the reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by retronasalization, by a user drinking the water from this bottle (1). Aroma diffuser according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that: • the diffusion orifices (6) include: • several first aroma diffusion orifices (61), then arranged around this annular shape, oriented outwards from this annular shape, • so as to allow aroma diffusion out of the reservoir (5), around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), outwards from the neck (4) of this bottle (1), and upwards from this bottle (1), when the reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by breathing through the nose, by a user drinking water from this bottle (1), • and a second orifice (62) or several second aroma diffusion orifices (62), then oriented towards the inside of this annular shape, • so as to permit aroma diffusion out of the reservoir (5), into the inside of the neck (4) of this bottle (1) or into the inside of the space (42) located above the neck (4) and in the extension of the neck (4) of this bottle (1), when the reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • so that the diffused aroma can be absorbed, by retronasalization, by a user drinking the water from this bottle (1).
17. Aroma diffuser according to any one of claims 15 to 16, characterized in that: • the aroma reservoir (5) comprises two or more concentric cylindrical walls, • the second orifice (62) or the second orifices (62) for aroma diffusion, then oriented(s) towards the inside of the neck (4) of this bottle (1) or oriented(s) towards the inside of the space (42) located above the neck (4) and in the extension of the neck (4) of this bottle (1), belongs or belong to the innermost concentric cylindrical wall (64) of the reservoir (5).
18. Aroma diffuser according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the aroma reservoir (5) has a U-shaped cross-section, the U having or not having two symmetrical legs (58), with these two legs (58) of the U oriented downwards, when the reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1).
19. Aroma diffuser according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the aroma diffusion orifices (6) are regularly distributed around the axis (Z) of the annular or partially annular shape. • and / or the aroma diffusion orifices (6) are at least 4, or at least 6, or at least 10 in number.
20. Aroma diffuser according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the neck (4) of the bottle (1) is also surrounded by a collar (41) located below the thread (40) of the neck (4), • the fastener(s) (8) are one or more clips (80) which are arranged so as: • to be able to clip under the collar (41) of the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • so as to place the reservoir (5): • around the neck (4) of this bottle (1).
21. Beverage device, comprising: • a disposable water bottle (1), in particular a disposable plastic water bottle (1) with a capacity of between 0.2 and 2 liters, comprising: • a neck (4), • surrounded by a thread (40) for a screw cap (3), • an aroma diffuser (2) comprising: • an aroma reservoir (5), • of annular or partially annular shape so as to be able to be placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • and comprising several aroma diffusion orifices (6), • a closure (7) for the reservoir (5), • movable, relative to the reservoir (5), between : • a position of simultaneous closure of all these orifices (6), preventing the diffusion of aroma outside the reservoir (5), • and a position of simultaneous opening of all these orifices (6) allowing the diffusion of aroma out of the reservoir (5), around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), towards the top of this bottle (1), • so as to move from the closed position to the open position, • when the cap (3) is unscrewed and removed from the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • when the aroma reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • when this bottle (1) is tilted from a vertical position with the neck (4) pointing upwards to an inclined position with the neck (4) pointing downwards, • this movable shutter (7) being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting, one or more fixings (8) of the diffuser (2) to this bottle (1), arranged so as to place
22. the reservoir (5) around the neck (4) of this bottle (1). Beverage device according to claim 21, characterized in that: • This movable shutter (7) is also movable so as to: • to move from the open position to the closed position, • when the cap (3) is unscrewed and removed from the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • when the aroma reservoir (5) is placed around the neck (4) of this bottle (1), • when this bottle (1) is tilted from an inclined position with the neck (4) pointing downwards to a vertical position with the neck (4) pointing upwards, • this movable shutter (7) being then automatically and mechanically driven by at least one force triggered or released by said tilting.