Refillable Volatile Composition Dispenser

Abstract

A volatile composition dispenser is provided. The volatile composition dispenser includes a housing having a base and a top rotatably and releasably connectable to the base about a longitudinal axis. The base and top each have a first surface and an opposing second surface. The housing includes a recessed track and a guide protrusion engageable with the recessed track. The recessed track has a track opening disposed at an open end of the recessed track and a track stop disposed at an opposite end of the recessed track. The recessed track is disposed on either the base or the top. When the recessed track is disposed on the base, the guide protrusion is disposed on the top. When the recessed track is disposed on the top, the guide protrusion is disposed on the base.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention is directed to a refillable volatile composition dispenser, and more particularly, to a volatile composition dispenser having a housing capable of receiving a volatile composition cartridge having a volatile composition. [Background technology]

[0002] Volatile composition dispensers are known in various configurations. Some volatile composition dispensers are configured for one-time use and are discarded or reused after the volatile composition is depleted. The volatile composition dispenser may be configured to require activation to initially release the volatile composition from the volatile composition dispenser. Such volatile composition dispensers can only be activated once and cannot be refilled or refilled with the volatile composition to reactivate the volatile composition dispenser. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It would therefore be beneficial to provide a volatile composition dispenser that is refillable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] "combination:" A. A volatile composition dispenser comprising a housing, the housing comprising: a housing including a base and a top portion rotatably and releasably connectable to the base about a longitudinal axis, the base and top portion when connected defining an interior and an exterior of the housing, the base portion including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and the top portion including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; A concave track; A volatile composition dispenser comprising: a guide protrusion engageable with a concave track, the concave track including a track opening disposed at an open end of the concave track and a track stop disposed at an opposite end of the concave track, the concave track being disposed either at a base or at a top, and when the concave track is disposed at the base, the guide protrusion is disposed at the top, and when the concave track is disposed at the top, the guide protrusion is disposed at the base. B. A volatile composition dispenser as described in paragraph A, wherein an interior of the housing is configured to at least partially accommodate a volatile composition cartridge containing a volatile composition. C. The volatile composition dispenser of paragraph A or B, wherein the base further comprises a mounting portion disposed on the second surface. D. A volatile composition dispenser described in any of paragraphs A-C, wherein the base includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and the base further includes an actuator extending from the first surface. E. The volatile composition dispenser of any of paragraphs A-D, further comprising a cover removably connectable to the top portion. F. A volatile composition dispenser described in any of paragraphs A-E, wherein the concave track further includes a restriction disposed adjacent the track stop, and the track opening is configured to receive the guide protrusion. G. A volatile composition dispenser as described in paragraph F, wherein the concave track further includes an axially outermost point located adjacent to the track stop, and when the guide projection is positioned at the axially outermost point on the concave track, the first surface of the base is closer to the second surface of the top than at any other location of the guide projection on the concave track. H. A volatile composition dispenser as described in paragraph G, wherein when the guide projection is positioned at the track stop, the first surface of the base and the second surface of the top are spaced axially further apart than when the guide projection is positioned at the axially outermost point. I. The volatile composition dispenser of any of paragraphs A-H, wherein the top portion includes an opening for exposing at least a portion of the volatile composition cartridge. J. The volatile composition dispenser of any of paragraphs A-I, wherein the housing includes a plurality of air flow openings. K. The volatile composition dispenser described in paragraph J, further comprising an airflow adjustment mechanism positionable in a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the airflow adjustment mechanism covers at least a portion of the plurality of airflow openings, and in the second position, the airflow adjustment mechanism exposes at least a portion of the plurality of airflow openings to the outside. L. The volatile composition dispenser of any of paragraphs A-K, further comprising a volatile composition cartridge. M. The volatile composition dispenser of any of paragraphs A-L, wherein the interior is configured to receive a volatile composition cartridge including a membrane and a burstable substrate. N. The volatile composition dispenser of any of paragraphs A-M, wherein the interior is configured to receive a volatile composition cartridge including a solid gel article. O. The volatile composition dispenser of any of paragraphs A-N, wherein the recessed track is disposed at the top and the guide protrusion is disposed at the base. P. A method for recharging a volatile composition, the method comprising: Providing a volatile composition dispenser comprising a housing, the housing comprising: a housing including a base and a top portion rotatably and releasably connectable to the base about a longitudinal axis, the base and top portion connected together defining an interior and an exterior of the housing; A concave track; providing a guide protrusion engageable with the recessed track, the recessed track including a track opening disposed at an open end of the recessed track and a track stop disposed at an opposite end of the recessed track, the recessed track being disposed on either the base or the top, when the recessed track is disposed on the base the guide protrusion is disposed on the top and when the recessed track is disposed on the top the guide protrusion is disposed on the base; inserting a first volatile composition cartridge into the housing; aligning the guide projection with the track opening; connecting the top and base by rotating one or both of the base and / or top about a longitudinal axis until the guide projection reaches a track stop; separating the top and base by rotating one or both of the top and base about a longitudinal axis; inserting a second volatile composition cartridge into the housing; aligning the guide projection with the track opening; connecting the top and base by rotating one or both of the base and / or top about a longitudinal axis until the guide projection reaches a track stop. Q. The method of paragraph P, wherein the volatile composition cartridge includes a membrane and a rupturable substrate, the recessed track includes an axially outermost point, and the method further includes the step of perforating the rupturable substrate when the guide projection reaches the axially outermost point. R. The method of paragraph P or paragraph Q, wherein the recessed track is located at the top and the guide protrusion is located at the base. S. The method of any of paragraphs P-R, wherein the volatile composition dispenser further comprises a cover removably connectable to the top portion. T. The method of any of paragraphs P-S, wherein the housing includes a plurality of air flow openings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser with the base separated from the top of the housing. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the base of the housing of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the base of the housing of the volatile composition dispenser. [Diagram 5]FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the upper portion of the housing of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the upper portion of the housing of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the upper portion of the housing of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 8] 1 is a side perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser with the base separated from the top of the housing, showing details of the recessed track and guide protrusions, with some elements of the top shown in transparent to view internal components that would not otherwise be visible from the exterior of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser with a base connected to the top of a housing, showing details of the recessed track and guide protrusions, with some elements of the top shown in transparent to view internal components that would not otherwise be visible from the exterior of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the top of a housing of a volatile composition dispenser having a restriction in a recessed track. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser with a base connected to the top of a housing, showing details of the recessed track and guide protrusions, with some elements of the top shown in transparent to view internal components that would not otherwise be visible from the exterior of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of a volatile composition dispenser with an airflow regulating mechanism in a closed position. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of a volatile composition dispenser with an airflow adjustment mechanism in an open position. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cover of a volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a cover of a volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a volatile composition cartridge. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the volatile composition cartridge of FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the volatile composition cartridge of FIG. 16. [Figure 19] 17 is a cross-sectional view of the volatile composition cartridge of FIG. 16 with the burstable substrate removed to show elements of the bursting mechanism. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a volatile composition cartridge with a rupture mechanism in a deactivated, unpressurized state. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a volatile composition cartridge with a rupture mechanism in an activated pressurized state. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a volatile composition cartridge's bursting mechanism. [Diagram 23] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser with a base connected to a top of a housing, showing guide projections located at the axially outermost points of the recessed track as a user rotates the top of the housing to join with the base. Some elements of the top are shown transparent to allow viewing of internal components that are otherwise not visible from the exterior of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser with a base connected to the top of the housing, showing guide projections disposed on track stops of the recessed track, with some elements of the top shown in transparent to view internal components that are otherwise not visible from the exterior of the volatile composition dispenser. [Diagram 25] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser with a base connected to a top of a housing, showing guide projections located at the axially outermost points of the recessed track as a user rotates the top of the housing and the base apart. Some elements of the top are shown transparent to allow viewing of internal components that are otherwise not visible from the exterior of the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a volatile composition cartridge in the form of a solid gel article. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] Various embodiments will now be described to provide a general understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined only by the claims. Features shown or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other exemplary embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0007] A volatile composition dispenser can be used to dispense at least one volatile composition and / or other solutions or compositions, such as perfumes, fragrances, and / or insecticides, into an area surrounding the volatile composition dispenser or into the atmosphere. A volatile composition can include a single chemical or a single material that can enter the gas phase under atmospheric conditions, or more generally, a volatile composition can include a mixture of chemicals and / or materials that can enter the gas phase under atmospheric conditions.

[0008] The volatile composition can include, without limitation, materials that can function as deodorants, deodorants, odor neutralizing materials, odor blocking materials, odor suppressants, odor masking materials, aromatherapy materials, aromachology materials, insecticides, air and / or surface sanitizing agents, and / or combinations thereof. In various other embodiments, the volatile composition can include various other materials that can act in the vapor phase to modify, enhance, and / or treat the atmosphere or area outside the volatile composition dispenser.

[0009] The volatile composition dispenser can be configured for use, for example, in the interior space or passenger compartment of a vehicle, although the invention is not limited to such use. Although the volatile composition dispenser is described herein for use in a vehicle, those skilled in the art will understand that the dispenser can be configured for use in any environment, such as a home or office, or even worn by a person, for example, and can be configured to dispense any suitable solution, chemical, material, and / or composition.

[0010] The volatile composition dispenser may be configured as a non-energized volatile composition dispenser for continuously delivering the volatile composition. "Non-energized" may mean that the device is passive and does not need to be powered by an external energy source. The volatile composition dispenser does not need to be powered by a heat source, a gas source, or a current source, and the volatile composition is generally not delivered by aerosol means.

[0011] The continuous emanations of at least one volatile composition can be for any suitable length of time, such as up to 20 days, 30 days, 40 days, 60 days, 90 days, or any period between 10 and 90 days, or for shorter or longer periods. Of course, more or less volatile composition can be provided in the volatile composition dispenser to increase or decrease its useful life. The useful life of the volatile composition dispenser can also depend on the conditions (i.e., temperature, pressure, moisture content, etc.) under which the volatile composition dispenser operates.

[0012] When the volatile composition dispenser is configured for use in an automobile, the volatile composition dispenser may be positionable on an air vent of an air handling system of the vehicle. The air vent may, for example, comprise a plurality of louvers and a louver adjustment mechanism. The volatile composition dispenser may be attached to the air vent, for example, by engaging the attachment portion of the dispenser with the louvers. In such an embodiment, air pushed or blown out of the air vent by the air handling system may flow through the volatile composition dispenser to deploy any evaporated (i.e., gas phase) volatile composition from the volatile composition dispenser into the interior space or passenger compartment of the vehicle. Such deployment of the volatile composition may, for example, treat the air in the passenger compartment or interior space of the vehicle, as described above.

[0013] 1-9, the volatile composition dispenser 10 includes a housing 12 that defines a longitudinal axis LA. The housing 12 has at least a base 14 and a top 16 that is rotatably and releasably connectable to the base 14. When the base 14 and the top 16 are connected, the base 14 and the top 16 combine to define an interior 18 of the housing 12 and an exterior 20 of the housing 12. The interior 18 of the housing 12 is configured to at least partially surround and house a volatile composition cartridge 22. The volatile composition cartridge 22 contains a volatile composition. The housing 12 may be reused when the volatile composition cartridge is depleted. When the volatile composition cartridge 22 is depleted or nearly depleted of the volatile composition, the base 14 and the top 16 can be separated and a new volatile composition cartridge 22 can be inserted into the housing 12. More specifically, the top and / or the base may be rotatably and releasably connectable to one another about the longitudinal axis LA.

[0014] 3-4, the base 14 defines a first surface 24 and an opposing second surface 26. The sidewall 28 is disposed between the first surface 24 and the second surface 26 and surrounds at least a portion of the first surface 24 and the second surface 26.

[0015] 5-7, the top 16 defines a first surface 30 and an opposing second surface 32. A sidewall 34 is disposed between the first surface 30 and the second surface 32 of the top 16 and surrounds at least a portion of the first surface 30 and the second surface 32. The sidewall 34 defines an interior sidewall 44 and an exterior sidewall 46. The top 16 can include an opening 17 for exposing a portion of the volatile composition cartridge or for allowing the volatile composition cartridge to be viewed from the outside.

[0016] The housing includes at least one guide projection 36 and at least one recessed track 38. The guide projection 36 is disposed on either the base 14 or the top 16 of the housing. The recessed track 38 is disposed on either the base 14 or the top 16. When the guide projection 36 is disposed on the base 14, the recessed track 38 is disposed on the top 16. Similarly, when the guide projection 36 is disposed on the top 16, the recessed track 38 is disposed on the base 14. The recessed track 38 is configured to receive and guide the guide projection 36 as the base 14 and top 16 rotate relative to one another to connect or disconnect the base 14 and top 16 from one another.

[0017] 2-4 show non-limiting example configurations in which at least one guide protrusion 36 is disposed on sidewall 24 of base 14. With reference to FIG. 7, at least one recessed track 38 is disposed on interior sidewall 44 of top 16.

[0018] 8-9 show a non-limiting example configuration in which sidewall 28 of base 14 defines an interior sidewall 48 and an exterior sidewall 50. At least one guide protrusion may be disposed on interior sidewall 44 of top 16, and recessed track 38 may be disposed on exterior sidewall 50 of base 14.

[0019] 6-9, the recessed track 38 includes a track opening 40 and a track stop 42. To connect the base 14 and top 16 of the housing 12, a user can first align the guide projections 36 with the track openings 40 and then rotate one or both of the base 14 and top 16 relative to one another such that the guide projections 36 move circumferentially through the recessed track 38. As the guide projections 36 move through the recessed track 38, the base 14 and top 16 are brought closer together. The user rotates one or both of the first and second portions until the guide projections 36 reach the track stop 42. Reaching the track stop 42 indicates to the user that the first and second portions of the housing 12 are fully connected.

[0020] 6-8, the recessed track 38 can include an axially outermost point 43 disposed between the opening and the track stop. The axially outermost point 43 may be disposed adjacent the track opening 40, or at least relatively closer to the track stop 42 than the track opening 40. When the guide projection 36 is positioned at the axially outermost point 43, the first surface 24 of the base 14 is closer to the second surface 32 of the top 16 than any other location of the guide projection 36 on the recessed track 38. When the guide projection 36 is positioned at the track stop 42, the first surface 24 of the base 14 and the second surface 32 of the top 16 are axially spaced further apart than when the guide projection 36 is positioned at the axially outermost point 43.

[0021] When the housing 12 includes two or more recessed tracks 38 and guide protrusions 36, the recessed tracks have substantially the same curvilinear shape so that the guide protrusions 36 move through the recessed tracks 38 simultaneously and at the same relative positions on the recessed tracks 38.

[0022] The guide protrusions 36 may have a variety of shapes. For example, the guide protrusions 36 may be circular, oval, round, square, rectangular, triangular, and the like.

[0023] The recessed track 38 may have a curvilinear shape. The recessed track 38 may have a relatively uniform width sized to accommodate the guide protrusion 36. The width of the recessed track 38 may be slightly larger than the guide protrusion 36.

[0024] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 for illustrative and non-limiting purposes only, the recessed track 38 may include a restrictor 52 having a narrow width adjacent the track stop 42 to cause an interference fit for the guide projection 36 at the track stop 42. The restrictor 52 may help prevent the top 16 from prematurely separating from the base 14 during normal use of the dispensing device 10. The restrictor 52 may also cause a "click" or similar sound when a user rotates the guide projection 36 through the restrictor 52. The restrictor 52 should have a width narrow enough to limit the top 16 and base 14 from prematurely separating, but not too narrow to prevent a user from being able to guide the guide projection 36 through the restrictor in either assembling or disassembling the housing 12. Although the restrictor 52 is shown on the top 16, it should be understood that if the recessed track 38 is disposed on the base 14, the recessed track 38 may also include the restrictor 52.

[0025] 1 and 2, the volatile composition dispenser 10 may include a mounting portion 54. The mounting portion 54 may be connected to the base 14 of the housing 12. The mounting portion 54 may be bonded to the second surface 26 of the base 14. The mounting portion 54 may be used to mount the volatile composition dispenser 10 to an object, such as a vent of an air system of a vehicle. Thus, the mounting portion 54 may include one or more detents 56 configured to engage with a portion of the object to which it is mounted. Of course, the mounting portion 54 may also include any other suitable gripping or engaging mechanism that allows the volatile composition dispenser 10 to be attached to another object or to a vent of an air system.

[0026] 1 and 2, the base 14 and / or top 16 of the housing 12 may include one or more airflow openings 58. The airflow openings 58 facilitate airflow within the interior of the housing 12. The airflow openings 58 may facilitate airflow across the volatile composition cartridge to increase volatilization of the volatile composition from the volatile composition cartridge. Air may flow through the interior of the housing 12 by natural convection. The volatile composition dispenser 10 may be attached to an air vent (i.e., a car vent or a home HVAC vent) by a mounting portion to facilitate increased airflow through the interior of the housing 12.

[0027] The housing may include one or more actuators 60. Referring to FIG. 3, the actuator 60 may be disposed on the base 14. As described in more detail below, the actuator 60 may "activate" or release a volatile composition. The actuator 60 may be disposed on a surface of the base 14 opposite the mounting portion (if present). The actuator 60 may protrude from the first surface 24 of the base 14. The actuator may have a variety of shapes. The actuator may have, for example, an arcuate or round shape. Two or more actuators may be used to cause a more uniform pressure distribution across the movable member of the rupture mechanism.

[0028] 12 and 13, the volatile composition dispenser 10 may include an airflow adjustment mechanism 66 positioned above at least one airflow opening. The airflow adjustment mechanism 66 may be connected to or formed with the first or second portion of the housing 12. The airflow adjustment mechanism 66 may be configured to move between at least a first position and a second position to at least partially cover or completely cover at least one of the airflow openings. The airflow adjustment mechanism 66 may be configured to move between a first position as shown in FIG. 12 that at least partially covers all of the airflow openings on the housing 12, and a second position as shown in FIG. 13 that does not cover all of the airflow openings.

[0029] By providing an airflow adjustment mechanism, a user can adjust the airflow rate through the volatile composition dispenser 10, thereby adjusting the amount of evaporated volatile composition dispensed by the volatile composition dispenser 10 into the atmosphere surrounding the volatile composition dispenser 10. This feature gives the user the ability to essentially "customize" the volatile composition dispenser 10 to various personal preferences. If all of the airflow openings are uncovered, more air can flow through the volatile composition dispenser 10, thereby providing more fragrance, odor treatment, etc. to the atmosphere surrounding the volatile composition dispenser 10. If at least a portion of the airflow openings are covered, less air can flow through the dispenser, thereby providing less fragrance, odor treatment, etc. to the atmosphere surrounding the volatile composition dispenser 10.

[0030] 14 and 15, the volatile composition dispenser 10 can include a cover 62 releasably connectable with the housing 12. The cover can be a decorative cover that is aesthetically pleasing to a user. The cover can be configured in a variety of three-dimensional designs. The cover can be interchangeable with the housing 12 to allow a user to customize the volatile composition dispenser 10 to their individual aesthetic preferences. The cover 62 can be connected with the top 14 and / or base 12. The cover 62 can be configured to hide all or a portion of the base and / or top 14. The cover 62 can include a window 64 configured to display the volatile composition cartridge 22. The window can be configured in a variety of different shapes, including, for example, circular, oval, rectangular, square, etc. The window 64 of the cover 62 can be the same or similar shape as the opening 17 of the top 16. The cover 64 can also include one or more airflow openings 68. The cover 62 may be a separate component that is releasably connectable to the housing 12, or it may be a separate component that is permanently attached to the top 16 of the housing 12, or the cover 62 may be integrally formed with the top 16 of the housing 12.

[0031] The volatile composition cartridge can be constructed in a variety of ways. The volatile composition cartridge may contain a liquid volatile composition that evaporates through a membrane. The volatile composition cartridge may be in the form of a solid or semi-solid gel or wax.

[0032] 16-22, the volatile composition cartridge 22 may include a container 72 having an orifice 74 in which a volatile composition 70 is stored. A burstable substrate 76 is sealably attached to and covers the orifice 74 defining a reservoir to prevent the volatile composition 70 from being released until the volatile composition dispenser 10 is activated. By activating a rupture mechanism 80 positioned adjacent to the burstable substrate 76, the burstable substrate 76 can be ruptured to release the volatile composition 70. The rupture mechanism 80 includes a movable member 82 movably attached to an outer frame 84 by a resilient member 86. The resilient member 86 can be formed of one or more springs. One or more rupture elements 90 are disposed within the rupture mechanism 80 to puncture holes in the burstable substrate 76. The rupture elements 90 can reach a point 91 to assist in the rupture of the burstable substrate 76. The volatile composition cartridge 22 may include a membrane 92 disposed on an exterior of the volatile composition cartridge 22. The membrane 92 may be sealably attached to a flange 94 disposed on an outer periphery 96 of the container 72. The membrane 92 encloses the container 72, the volatile composition 70, the burstable substrate 76, and the bursting mechanism 80. The membrane 92 may be configured to flex when pressure or an actuation force is applied to the membrane 92.

[0033] 18-22, the bursting elements 90 are spaced apart on the movable member 82. The positions of the bursting elements 90 are configured to pierce a hole on one side of the burstable substrate 76 to allow air to enter the container 72 and pierce another hole on the opposite side to expel the volatile composition from the container 72, thereby creating a pressure differential between the interior of the container and the exterior of the container. This pressure differential allows the volatile composition to be expelled from one of the perforations located at the bottom end of the burstable substrate 76 as air enters the container 72 through the other perforation at the top end of the burstable substrate 76.

[0034] The internal components of the volatile composition cartridge 22 shown in Figures 16-22 can be characterized as follows. For example, the dimensions of the container 72 can be configured to hold about 1 ml to about 50 ml of liquid volatile composition. Alternatively, the reservoir can hold about 2 ml to about 30 ml, alternatively about 2 ml to about 10 ml, alternatively about 2 ml to about 8 ml, alternatively about 4 ml to about 6 ml, alternatively about 2 ml, alternatively about 6 ml of liquid volatile composition. Furthermore, the shape of the container 72 can be configured to correspond to the shape of the top opening 17. For example, the container 72 can define a substantially circular, elliptical or oval shape, and its width to length ratio can be about 1:2 to 1:2.5.

[0035] The burstable substrate 76 may be made of any material that will burst under an applied force with or without the presence of factors that contribute to such bursting. Because the burstable substrate 76 is intended to contain a volatile material during storage, it may be made of any barrier material that will prevent evaporation of the volatile material prior to its intended use. Such materials may be impermeable to vapors and liquids. Suitable barrier materials for the burstable substrate 76 include flexible films such as polymeric films, flexible foils, or composite materials such as foil / polymeric film laminates. Suitable flexible foils include metal foils such as foils composed of nitrocellulose protective lacquer, 20 micron aluminum foil, polyurethane primer, and 15 g / m2 polyethylene coating (Lidfoil 118-0092) available from Alcan Packaging. Suitable polymeric films include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films, acrylonitrile copolymer barrier films (such as those sold under the trade name Barex® by INOES), ethylene vinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof. It is also contemplated that coated barrier films may be utilized as the burstable substrate 76. Such coated barrier films that may be used include metallized PET, metallized polypropylene, silica, or alumina coated films. Any of the barrier materials, whether coated or uncoated, may be used alone and / or in combination with other barrier materials.

[0036] The bursting mechanism 80 can be injection molded, compression molded, or pressure molded using polyolefins such as polyethylene or polypropylene, polyesters, or other plastics known to be suitable for molding. The bursting mechanism 80 may also be made by thermoforming with a separate cutting step to remove undesired portions.

[0037] Membrane 92 may be a microporous membrane with an average pore size of about 0.01 to about 0.06 microns, alternatively about 0.01 to about 0.05 microns, alternatively about 0.01 to about 0.04 microns, alternatively about 0.01 to about 0.03 microns, alternatively about 0.02 to about 0.04 microns, alternatively about 0.02 microns. Additionally, membrane 92 may be filled with any suitable fillers and plasticizers known in the art. Fillers may include finely divided silica, clays, zeolites, carbonates, activated carbon, and mixtures thereof. Microporous membrane 92 may be filled with about 50% to about 80%, alternatively about 60% to about 80%, alternatively about 70% to about 80%, alternatively about 70% to about 75% silica, based on total weight. The thickness of membrane 92 may be from about 0.01 mm to about 1 mm, alternatively from about 0.1 mm to about 0.4 mm, alternatively from about 0.15 mm to about 0.35 mm, alternatively about 0.25 mm.

[0038] Furthermore, the evaporative surface area of ​​the microporous membrane 92 is approximately 2 cm 2 ~Approx. 100cm 2 , alternatively about 2 cm 2 ~about 25cm 2 , alternatively about 10 cm 2 ~about 50cm 2 , alternatively about 10 cm 2 ~ approx. 45cm 2 , alternatively about 10 cm 2 ~Approx. 35cm 2 , alternatively about 15 cm 2 ~about 40cm 2 , alternatively about 15 cm 2 ~Approx. 35cm 2 , alternatively about 20cm 2 ~Approx. 35cm 2 , alternatively about 30cm 2 ~Approx. 35cm 2 , alternatively about 35cm 2 Thus, the rear frame 200 may be sized and shaped to match the evaporative surface area of ​​the membrane 92.

[0039] Suitable microporous membranes of the present invention include microporous, optionally silica-filled, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) membranes as described in U.S. Patent No. 7,498,369. Such UHMWPE microporous membranes include Daramic™ V5 available from Daramic, Solupor™ available from DSM (Netherlands), and Teslin™ available from PPG Industries, combinations thereof, and membranes available from Microporous LLC.

[0040] 17, 20-21, and 23-25, when the volatile composition cartridge 22 has a rupturable substrate 76, an actuator 60 on the base 14 can be used to rupture the rupturable substrate 76 and release the volatile composition 70 onto the membrane 92. The recessed track 38 is shaped such that the guide projection 36 moves through the recessed track 38 when a user rotates the base 12 and / or top 14 together. When the guide projection 36 reaches the axially outermost point 43 on the recessed track 38, the actuator 60 contacts and applies pressure to the membrane 92, which in turn applies pressure to the movable member 82 of the rupture mechanism 80. This pressure applied to the movable member 82 bends the elastic member 86 and brings the rupturable element 90 into contact with the rupturable substrate, piercing the rupturable substrate 76 with the rupturable element 90, thereby forming a hole in the rupturable substrate, as shown in FIG. 21. Once holes are formed in the burstable substrate 76, the volatile composition is released and the membrane absorbs the liquid, and is eventually released to the environment by evaporation over an extended period of time. Once this pressure on the burstable substrate 76 results in the formation of holes, the user continues to rotate the guide projection 36 through the recessed track 38 to the track stop 42, shifting the actuator 60 out of contact with and out of pressure on the membrane 92. Removal of the pressure applied to the membrane 92 by the actuator 60 causes the elastic member 86 to flex back to its unpressurized state, as shown in FIG. 20, which moves the burstable element 90 away from the burstable substrate 76. This retraction movement of the burstable element 90 allows the holes to become unobstructed, allowing the volatile composition to flow more easily from the container to the membrane 92.

[0041] When the volatile composition in the volatile composition cartridge 22 is depleted, the user can separate the base 14 and the top 16 by rotating the base 14 and / or the top 16 away from each other, as shown in FIG. 25.

[0042] Suitable volatile materials or compositions for use in a volatile composition cartridge 22 for a volatile composition dispenser 10 may be configured to condition, modify or otherwise alter atmospheric conditions and may include compositions suitable for providing fragrances, deodorants, deodorants, odor eliminators, odor control agents, insecticides, insect repellents, medicinal substances, disinfectants, cleaning agents, mood enhancers and aromatherapy aids. A list of suitable volatile materials is provided below in Table 2.

[0043] [Table 1]

[0044] The composition may be formulated to include a volatile material mixture comprising from about 10% to about 100% by weight of volatile materials each having a VP of less than about 0.01 torr at 25° C., alternatively from about 40% to about 100% by weight of volatile materials each having a VP of less than about 0.1 torr at 25° C., alternatively from about 50% to about 100% by weight of volatile materials each having a VP of less than about 0.1 torr at 25° C., and alternatively from about 90% to about 100% by weight of volatile materials each having a VP of less than about 0.3 torr at 25° C. The volatile material mixture may contain from 0% to about 15% by weight of volatile materials each having a VP of about 0.004 torr to about 0.035 torr at 25° C., from 0% to about 25% by weight of volatile materials each having a VP of about 0.1 torr to about 0.325 torr at 25° C., and from about 65% to about 100% by weight of volatile materials each having a VP of about 0.035 torr to about 0.1 torr at 25° C. One source of information for obtaining the saturated vapor pressures of volatile materials is the EPI Suite™, version 4.0, available from the US Environmental Protection Agency.

[0045] 26, the volatile composition cartridge 22 may be in the form of a solid gel article 108. The solid article may be molded of a moldable material, such as any one of the gel compositions described below.

[0046] The gel may be a chemically crosslinked polyol or its derivative. Suitable polyols or its derivatives may be selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols, and mixtures thereof. Polyols, polyester polyols, and polyglycerols contain multiple hydroxyl groups and are suitable for forming gels with compact networks. In addition, the resulting gel has a higher affinity for less hydrophobic materials.

[0047] Suitable polyols or derivatives thereof may have a molecular weight of 60 Da to 10000 Da, preferably 150 Da to 3000 Da, even more preferably 500 Da to 2000 Da, even more preferably 600 Da to 1300 Da. Longer polyols and derivatives thereof provide greater flexibility of the gel.

[0048] Suitable polyols and their derivatives do not contain terminal hydroxyl groups. Secondary alcohols are particularly suitable. Primary alcohols with terminal hydroxyl groups typically result in more linear chains and more compact networks. A combination of primary and secondary alcohols is preferred because it results in a more desirable correlation length.

[0049] An average correlation length of less than 8 nm as measured using Small Angle X-Ray Scattering (SAXS) is preferred, however, the gel compositions described herein can be formulated to have any desired correlation length.

[0050] When secondary alcohols are used, gels with more optimal pore size are obtained. Lightly branched polyols such as poly(diethylene glycol adipate) and its derivatives result in more flexible gels. Preferred polyols and their derivatives have at least two hydroxyl groups per molecule, more preferably at least three hydroxyl groups per molecule.

[0051] Polyols are compounds that contain multiple hydroxyl groups. Diol polyols with two hydroxyl functionalities result after crosslinking in linear polymers or more open networks with large pore sizes. In contrast, hydroxyl functional monomers with more than two functionalities form more compact gels with smaller pore sizes. Suitable polyols include ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, pentaerythritol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, 4,6-di-tert-butylbenzene-1,2,3-triol, propanetriol (glycerol), 1,2,5-hexanetriol, 1,2,4-cyclohexanetriol, 2,5-dimethylhexane-1,2,6-triol, 3-hydroxymethylpentane-1,2,5-triol, 1,3,6-hexanetriol, 1,1,5,5-pentanethreitol, 1,2,5,6-hexanethreitol, 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexanehexol (sorbitol), and mixtures thereof.

[0052] The polyester polyol is a hydroxyl-containing ester. Suitable polyester polyols can be selected from the group consisting of aliphatic polyester polyols, aromatic polyester polyols, organic oil-based polyester polyols, and mixtures thereof. Organic oil-based polyester polyols are preferred. Preferred organic oils are vegetable oils, as they typically contain high levels of unsaturation (C=C bonds) and naturally contain hydroxyl groups. Suitable polyester polyols include hexanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-,1,1',1''-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester; pentanoic acid, 5-amino-4-hydroxy-,1,1',1''-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester; polycaprolactone triol; castor oil, hydroxyl sunflower oil (HSO), and mixtures thereof.

[0053] Castor oil is particularly suitable. Castor oil (ricinus oil) is a pale yellow and viscous liquid extracted from the beans of the castor plant (ricinus communis). Castor oil is composed mainly of triglycerides of fatty acids containing 87-90% ricinoleic acid (cis-12-hydroxyoctadec-9-enoic acid) and can be obtained in high purity grades. Castor oil and its derivatives have been used as polyols for polyurethanes and adhesives. Castor oil can be partially hydrogenated. Castor oil offers branching lengths and hydroxyl group positions that have been found to be particularly suitable for providing chemically crosslinked gels with pore sizes that result in slow release of hydrophobic materials, especially when the hydrophobic material is a fragrance. In addition, chemically crosslinked gels derived from castor oil show less syneresis of hydrophobic materials from the gel.

[0054] Polyglycerols are hydroxy-containing ethers. Polyglycerols are typically obtained by polymerization of alkylene oxides (such as epoxides). Suitable alkylene oxides include ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, butylene oxide, and mixtures thereof, using chain initiators such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, neopentyl glycol, pentaerythritol, hexanetriol, sorbitol, glycerol, and mixtures thereof. Suitable polyglycerols can be selected from the group consisting of α,α-diglycerol, α,β-diglycerol, hyperbranched polyglycerol, dendritic polyglycerol, and mixtures thereof. Hyperbranched polyglycerols are aliphatic polyethers with multiple hydroxyl end groups obtained from the asymmetric polyaddition of glycidol to glycerol resulting in a spherical branch-on-branch structure that provides special internal flexibility. Dendritic polyglycerols are hyperbranched polyglycerols with a well-defined, symmetrical and spherical three-dimensional structure around the core. Apart from improving gel elasticity, the dendritic structure with a sterically shielded core together with the exceptionally large number of functional groups of hyperbranched polyglycerols produces flexible gels with relatively small pore sizes, which increases the longevity of the final composition by reducing the diffusion rate as a result of physical encapsulation of hydrophobic materials as well as improved H-bonding and van der Waals interactions. Such polyglycerols can be purchased from Nanopartica GmbH (Germany) and Sigma-Aldrich. Suitable polyglycerols include polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, poly(diethylene glycol), poly(dipropylene glycol), poly(1,4-butanediol), poly(neopentyl glycol), poly(1,6-hexanediol), and mixtures thereof. The polyglycerol preferably has 2 to 50 repeating units, preferably 4 to 30 repeating units.

[0055] Any suitable crosslinking agent may be used, but crosslinking agents selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates, and mixtures thereof are preferred. The crosslinking agent may be a linear, branched, or cyclic isocyanate, and mixtures thereof. Cyclic isocyanates and mixtures thereof are preferred. Suitable cyclic isocyanates include heterocyclic isocyanates such as 1,3,5-tris(5-isocyanatopentyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione.

[0056] Suitable crosslinking agents include 1,4-butane diisocyanate (BDI), 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), L-lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI), 4,4'-methylenebis(cyclohexyl isocyanate) (H12MDI), glycolide-ethylene glycol-glycolide isocyanate (Bezwada, LLC), 4,4'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), 2,4'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), 2,2'-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) (MDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), 2,4-toluene diisocyanate (2,4-TDI). , 2,6-toluene diisocyanate (2,6-TDI), poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate) (PDI), 1,3-bis(2-isocyanatopropan-2-yl)benzene, poly(pentamethylene diisocyanate), and mixtures thereof, preferably 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), L-lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI), poly(pentamethylene diisocyanate), poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate) (PDI), 1,3,5-tris(5-isocyanatopentyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione, and mixtures thereof. Such crosslinkers are available from Sigma-Aldrich and Covestro under the trade name Desmodur® eco N7300.

[0057] The crosslinker may have a viscosity of less than 2.500 mPa.s at 25° C. and an isocyanate equivalent of 15% to 40%, preferably 18% to 30%. Such crosslinkers are more easily blended with polyols. As a result, a more homogeneous gel can be obtained.

[0058] Gels may be formed using a molar ratio of polyol (or derivatives thereof) to crosslinker of 1:0.75 to 1:2, preferably 1:0.8 to 1:1.6, more preferably 1:0.8 to 1:1.2. Such ratios of polyol to crosslinker typically result in gels having an elastic modulus G' of the same order of magnitude as the viscous modulus G". In addition, the ratios of polyol to crosslinker typically result in gels having an elastic modulus G' of greater than 0.1 kPa, preferably greater than 1 kPa, even more preferably greater than 2 kPa and less than 100 kPa.

[0059] The gel is preferably essentially free or free of unreacted isocyanates and / or isothiocyanates.

[0060] Dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​recited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

[0061] It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this specification includes every lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this specification includes every higher numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this specification will include every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

[0062] All documents cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patents or patent applications, and any patent applications or patents to which this application claims priority or benefit, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document shall not be deemed to be prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, or to teach, suggest, or disclose such invention, either alone or in combination with any other reference or references. Furthermore, if any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document shall control.

[0063] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. 1. A volatile composition dispenser comprising a housing, the housing comprising: a base and a top portion rotatably and releasably connectable to the base about a longitudinal axis, the base and top portion when connected defining an interior and an exterior of the housing, the base portion including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and the top portion including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; A concave track; a guide protrusion engageable with the concave track, the concave track including a track opening disposed at an open end of the concave track and a track stop disposed at an opposite end of the concave track, the concave track being disposed on either the base or the top, and when the concave track is disposed on the base, the guide protrusion is disposed on the top, and when the concave track is disposed on the top, the guide protrusion is disposed on the base.

2. The volatile composition dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the interior of the housing is configured to at least partially accommodate a volatile composition cartridge containing a volatile composition.

3. The volatile composition dispenser of claim 1 or 2, wherein the base further comprises a mounting portion disposed on the second surface.

4. The volatile composition dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the base further comprises an actuator extending from the first surface.

5. The volatile composition dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a cover removably connectable to said top portion.

6. A volatile composition dispenser as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the concave track further includes a restriction disposed adjacent the track stop, and the track opening is configured to receive the guide protrusion.

7. A volatile composition dispenser as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the concave track further includes an axially outermost point located adjacent to the track stop, and when the guide projection is positioned at the axially outermost point on the concave track, the first surface of the base is closer to the second surface of the top than any other position of the guide projection on the concave track.

8. A volatile composition dispenser as described in claim 7, wherein when the guide projection is positioned at the track stop, the first surface of the base and the second surface of the top are axially spaced further apart than when the guide projection is positioned at the axially outermost point.

9. The volatile composition dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the top portion includes an opening for exposing at least a portion of a volatile composition cartridge.

10. A volatile composition dispenser according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing includes a plurality of air flow openings.

11. The volatile composition dispenser of claim 10, further comprising an airflow adjustment mechanism disposable in a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the airflow adjustment mechanism covers at least a portion of the plurality of airflow openings, and in the second position, the airflow adjustment mechanism exposes at least a portion of the plurality of airflow openings to the exterior.

12. The volatile composition dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a volatile composition cartridge.

13. The volatile composition dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the interior is configured to receive a volatile composition cartridge comprising a membrane and a burstable substrate.

14. The volatile composition dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the recessed track is located on the top portion and the guide projection is located on the base portion.

15. A volatile composition dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the interior is configured to receive a volatile composition cartridge, the volatile composition comprising at least one of a liquid, a gel, or a wax.

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