Refillable volatile composition dispenser having a releasable connection - Patents.com

Abstract

A flexible solid deodorant for releasably coupling to a volatile composition dispenser, the flexible solid deodorant comprising a first central evaporative surface, a second central evaporative surface, and a peripheral evaporative surface. The peripheral evaporative surface surrounds at least a portion of the first and second central evaporative surfaces and defines a side of the deodorant. The deodorant is configured to releasably couple to the dispenser, and at least a portion of the deodorant is configured to releasably couple with at least a portion of the dispenser to form a solid surface substantially free of openings.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser for dispensing a volatile composition, and in particular to a refillable volatile composition dispenser comprising a solid deodorant and a releasable connection. [Background technology]

[0002] It is well known to use various devices to diffuse volatile compounds such as fragrances, germicides, insect repellents, air freshening compositions, deodorants, etc. For example, consumers purchase air fresheners to freshen their homes. Traditional air fresheners release air freshening compositions into the environment for a period of time until the freshening composition is depleted. Various types of refillable air fresheners are also well known in the state of the art. Such refillable air fresheners can utilize liquid, solid or gel compositions to deliver the volatile compounds. In gel air fresheners, solid air fresheners such as traditional gels, gelling polymers are left behind after the water and fragrance evaporate, and the remaining gelling polymers cause stickiness in the gel. Furthermore, the remaining gel also sticks to the container and is prone to tearing, creating a dirty residue. Therefore, consumers need to clean the container before directly refilling the container with a new gel refill.

[0003] A refillable air freshener device is described in GB 2374805(A) and comprises a main container having a gel-receiving surface with a recess for receiving a gel composition, and a refill container having a gel-receiving surface with a contour corresponding to the gel-receiving surface of the main container, the refill container having a recess for receiving gel. GB 2374805(A) explains on page 7, lines 10-14 that once the gel composition in the original air freshener device has dissipated and any residue has been removed from the container, the refill container can be positioned so that its rear surface abuts the gel-receiving surface of the container.

[0004] WO2005027630(A) describes an air freshening device having a main container and a refillable container with a gel receiving surface having at least one recess for receiving a gel composition, the refillable container being located and held securely within the main container. However, if the gel composition in such a refillable container dissipates over time, the refillable container is still discarded. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] UK Patent Application Publication No. 2374805(A) [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2005027630(A) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Thus, a need remains for a refillable volatile composition dispenser for solid deodorant that is easy to refill without the need for a refill container. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention relates to a flexible solid deodorant for releasably coupling to a volatile composition dispenser, the solid deodorant having a first central evaporative surface, a second central evaporative surface, and a peripheral evaporative surface, the peripheral evaporative surface surrounding at least a portion of the first and second central evaporative surfaces and defining a side of the deodorant, the deodorant configured to releasably couple to the dispenser, and at least a portion of the deodorant configured to releasably couple with at least a portion of the dispenser to form a solid surface substantially free of openings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a solid deodorant according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the solid deodorant of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention with the solid deodorant of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of components of an alternative design of a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the assembled volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of components of a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention. [Figure 8] 8 is a front perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 7 in a first configuration in which the solid deodorant is at its initial size. [Figure 9] 8 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser of FIG. 7 in a second configuration in which the solid deodorant has contracted to a reduced size. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] It has been found that refillable consumer products play an important role in allowing consumers / users to have options when deciding whether to purchase a new product or refill the packaging container when the product is depleted.In particular, for users of volatile dispensing products that provide benefits to interior spaces, there is a strong desire to refill the container of a volatile dispenser product when the volatile composition is depleted.

[0010] The present invention relates to a flexible solid deodorant for releasably coupling to a volatile composition dispenser, the solid deodorant having a first central evaporative surface, a second central evaporative surface, and a peripheral evaporative surface, the peripheral evaporative surface surrounding at least a portion of the first and second central evaporative surfaces to define a side of the deodorant, the deodorant configured to releasably couple to the dispenser, and at least a portion of the deodorant configured to couple with at least a portion of the dispenser to form a solid surface substantially free of openings.

[0011] A technical effect is that the solid deodorant can be easily separated from the dispenser by applying pressure to the first central evaporative surface or the second central evaporative surface, thereby dislodging at least a portion of the deodorant from its connection with at least a portion of the dispenser. At least a portion of the deodorant can be configured to be releasably secured to at least a portion of the dispenser by one of an interference fit, a pressure fit, a friction fit, and combinations thereof.

[0012] In the following description, the solid deodorants described are consumer products, such as air fresheners, for evaporating a volatile composition within a space to provide various benefits, such as air freshening, odor removal, or fragrance in the space, such as rooms in homes and commercial establishments, or enclosed spaces such as passenger compartments in vehicles, etc. However, the solid deodorants may be configured for use in a variety of applications that dispense a volatile composition into the air, and the dispensers may include consumer products, such as, but not limited to, air freshening products.

[0013] Prior to describing the present invention in detail, the following terms are defined for clarity of description. Terms not defined should be given their ordinary meaning as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

[0014] As used herein, "horizontal orientation" refers to the position of a dispenser of a volatile composition according to the present invention with the central evaporation surface facing the surrounding environment in an upward or downward position.

[0015] As used herein, a "solid deodorant" refers to a chemically crosslinked gel composition that is molded into the form of a three-dimensional object having a width, length, and thickness along the x-, y-, and z-axes, respectively. The solid deodorant is self-supporting and includes at least two evaporative surfaces.

[0016] As used herein, "visual indicator" refers to any element that indicates the stage of the product life cycle of a volatile composition dispenser or the condition of use of a volatile composition dispenser.

[0017] As used herein, "visually perceptible" refers to the ability to see a visual indicator and to perceive the information represented by the visual indicator.

[0018] As used herein, "vertical orientation" refers to the position of a dispenser of a volatile composition according to the present invention with the central evaporation surface facing the surrounding environment in a forward-facing or rear-facing position.

[0019] As used herein, "non-powered" means that the volatile composition dispenser is passive and does not need to be powered by an external energy source. In particular, 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 not dispensed by aerosol means. Furthermore, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0020] As used herein, "top note" refers to perfume raw materials that have high volatility.

[0021] As used herein, "bottom note" refers to perfume raw materials that are less volatile than the top notes.

[0022] As used herein, "vapor" refers to the gaseous form of an organic or inorganic substance that coexists as a solid or liquid at ambient conditions including, but not limited to, temperature, humidity, and air pressure.

[0023] As used herein, "vapor impermeable substrate" refers to a material configured to resist the diffusion of vapors from the dispenser prior to its intended use.

[0024] As used herein, "vapor emission rate" refers to a measure of the passage of vapor through a substrate.

[0025] As used herein, a "volatile composition" refers to a material that can be vaporized at room temperature and atmospheric pressure without the need for an additional energy source. Volatile compositions can be configured for a variety of uses, including, but not limited to, air freshening, deodorization, odor removal, odor neutralization, pest control, vermin control, insect repellent, medicine / drug, disinfectant, sanitizer, mood enhancement, aromatherapy aid, scented composition, unscented composition, or any other use that requires a volatile composition that acts to condition, modify, or otherwise change the air or surrounding environment. Furthermore, not all of the component materials of the volatile composition need be volatile. Suitable volatile compositions in any amount or form, including liquids, solids, gels, or emulsions, may be used. Materials suitable for use herein may include non-volatile compounds, such as carrier substances (e.g., water, solvents, etc.). It should also be understood that when a volatile composition is described herein as being "delivered," "volatilized," or "emitted," this refers to the volatilization of the volatile components of the volatile composition, and that the non-volatile components of the volatile composition do not need to be vaporized.

[0026] For the purpose of illustrating the present invention in detail, the present invention is described below as a solid deodorant comprising a volatile composition and a non-energized volatile composition dispenser. However, the volatile composition dispenser may be configured for use with an energized device, such as, for example, an electric heating device or a fan. The solid deodorant described below is a gel composition that includes a fragrance as an example of a volatile composition. The gel composition is a polyester polyol that is crosslinked using a crosslinker selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocynates, and mixtures thereof. However, it will be understood that the solid deodorant can be formed from any gel composition that can be molded into a three-dimensional object and, when cured, is self-supporting and has at least a peripheral evaporative surface and a central evaporative surface.

[0027] The solid deodorant may be configured in various shapes and sizes to facilitate customization for use of the dispenser of the volatile composition, such as an air freshener in a vehicle, a residential interior space, a commercial interior space, an interior space of a household furniture (e.g., a cupboard or a locker), an interior space of a household appliance, etc. Preferably, the household appliance may be selected from the group consisting of a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a washing machine, and an automatic dishwasher. The interior space may be the interior environment of a portable consumer product, and preferably, the portable consumer product may be a bag, luggage, etc.

[0028] The solid deodorant of the present invention may be implemented using a dispenser of a volatile composition, such as, for example, a device for delivering a volatile composition to an interior space. It is contemplated that the device may be configured for use in a variety of applications to deliver a volatile material into the air and / or to a surface, so long as the volatile material evaporates from the device. For purposes of this disclosure, and without intending to limit the scope of the invention, the device is described as a non-powered device.

[0029] Figure 1 is a front view of a solid deodorant 2 comprising a volatile composition according to the present invention. Figure 2 is a side view of the solid deodorant of Figure 1. The solid deodorant 2 has a length L, a width W, and a thickness D that define a three-dimensional self-supporting structure of the solid deodorant 2. The solid deodorant 2 may be characterized by a thickness D of 0.5 mm to 15 mm, 1 mm to 10 mm, 2 mm to 9 mm, 3 mm to 8 mm, or different combinations of the above upper and lower limits, or any integer combination within the ranges listed above.

[0030] The solid deodorant 2 is configured to contain a volatile composition in a solid phase and includes a plurality of evaporation surfaces through which the volatile composition in the solid phase can evaporate. The volatile composition may be selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorants, germicides, insect repellents, malodor reducers, and mixtures thereof. The volatile composition may be present in a concentration of 3% to 85% by weight, preferably 15% to 75% by weight, more preferably 20% to 60% by weight, based on the weight of the solid deodorant, or a different combination of the upper and lower percentage limits mentioned above, or a combination of the ranges listed above.

[0031] With reference to Figure 1, the solid deodorant 2 comprises a first central evaporative surface 4, a second central evaporative surface 6, and a peripheral evaporative surface 5 surrounding the first and second central evaporative surfaces 4, 6. With reference to Figure 2, the peripheral evaporative surface 5 surrounds at least a portion of the first and second central evaporative surfaces 4, 6 and defines a side of the deodorant 2. The deodorant 2 is configured to releasably couple to a volatile composition dispenser, with at least a portion of the deodorant configured to couple with at least a portion of the dispenser to form a solid surface substantially free of openings.

[0032] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a volatile composition dispenser 1 according to the present invention. The dispenser 1 includes a housing 3 and the solid deodorant 2 of FIG. 1. Specifically, the peripheral evaporative surface 5 of the solid deodorant 1 defines an outer contour 51. To releasably couple the deodorant 2 to the dispenser 1, the shape of the outer contour 51 of the solid deodorant 2 may correspond to the inner contour 31 of the housing 3. Each of the first and second central evaporative surfaces 4, 6 is characterized by a central evaporative surface area that is greater than the peripheral evaporative surface area of ​​the peripheral evaporative surface 5. The deodorant 2 can be releasably separated from the housing 3 by applying finger pressure to the first central evaporative surface 4 or the second central evaporative surface 6. The technical effect is to minimize the contact area of ​​the deodorant 2 in that only the peripheral surface 5 contacts the inner contour 31 of the housing 3, thereby reducing the size of the surface area that may leave residue.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a front schematic view of the dispenser 1 of FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 4, the size and shape of the outer contour 51 of the deodorant 2 is configured to match the size and shape of the inner contour 31 of the housing 3 to form a continuous surface with substantially no gaps so that the deodorant 2 can be secured within the housing 3. The solid deodorant 2 may be made from any known material that can provide a self-supporting structure and have a mixture of evaporable and non-evaporable components, so long as the amount of evaporable and non-evaporable components is configured to provide a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40%. The evaporable components may include a volatile composition and water. The non-evaporable components may include components suitable for forming a solid deodorant, including but not limited to gelling materials, elastomers, polyurethanes, and the like.

[0034] Table 1 shows examples of aqueous gel compositions according to the present invention.

[0035] [Table 1]

[0036] The solid deodorant may be non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% water by weight, and more preferably is substantially free of water.

[0037] The solid deodorant may include a material selected from the group consisting of an ethyl cellulose polymer, a chemically crosslinked polyol, or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof. Table 2 shows examples of non-aqueous gel compositions including ethyl cellulose polymer that may have a shrinkage of 1% to 40%.

[0038] [Table 2]

[0039] The solid deodoriser may be a chemically crosslinked polyol, wherein the polyol or a derivative thereof is selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol is selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof, and is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent.

[0040] The solid deodorant may also be molded from a moldable material, such as any one of the non-aqueous gel compositions described hereinafter.

[0041] Non-aqueous gel composition: Gel compositions are formed using crosslinkers that form covalent bonds that are mechanically and thermally stable, and therefore less susceptible to disruption once formed. In contrast, physical crosslinks rely on microstructural changes to achieve stability, such as crystalline or highly entangled regions.

[0042] Physical gels can also retain high concentrations of hydrophobic materials, such as fragrances, but such physical gels are more delicate to handle, as they are more easily destroyed during manipulation. In addition, such physical gels typically exhibit a greater decrease in volume as the hydrophobic material evaporates, and typically decrease in length by a level of 50% to 90% as the hydrophobic material evaporates, as compared to the crosslinked gels of the present invention. In contrast, the crosslinked gels of the present invention exhibit less shrinkage, typically of the order of 1% to 40%, preferably 3% to 30%, more preferably 4% to 20%, as the hydrophobic material is released at the end of a period of 1 to 75 days, preferably 1 to 60 days, more preferably 1 to 45 days.

[0043] The gel composition may have 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Suitable polyols or derivatives thereof may have a molecular weight of 60 Da to 10000 Da, preferably 150 Da to 3000 Da, 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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 softer gels. Preferred polyols and their derivatives have at least two hydroxyl groups per molecule, more preferably at least three hydroxyl groups per molecule.

[0049] 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-pentanetretraol, 1,2,5,6-hexanetretraol, 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexanehexol (sorbitol), and mixtures thereof.

[0050] 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, hydroxy sunflower oil (HSO), and mixtures thereof.

[0051] 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. 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 a core. Apart from improving gel elasticity, the dendritic structure with a sterically shielded core together with the exceptionally high functional groups of hyperbranched polyglycerols produces flexible gels with relatively small pore sizes, which increases the longevity of the final composition by slowing down 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 repeat units, preferably 4 to 30 repeat units.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The gel is preferably essentially free or free of unreacted isocyanates and / or isothiocyanates.

[0056] The gel may further comprise a hydroxyl-containing polymer, a hydroxyl-containing oligomer, or a mixture thereof. The hydroxyl-containing polymer and / or oligomer can be used to change the elasticity of the gel composition and therefore the perfume release longevity (a higher elastic modulus G' will slow the release of the perfume).

[0057] Suitable hydroxyl-containing polymers may be selected from the group consisting of poloxamer, gelatin, carrageenan, chitin, chitosan, and mixtures thereof.

[0058] Poloxamers are non-ionic triblock copolymers composed of a central hydrophobic chain of polyoxypropylene (poly(propylene oxide)) flanked by two hydrophilic chains of polyoxyethylene (poly(ethylene oxide)). Suitable poloxamers have a weight average molecular weight of 1500 g / mol to 15000 g / mol and a weight percentage of poly(ethylene oxide) of 10% to 80%, preferably 50% to 80%. Suitable poloxamers are commercially available from BASF under the trade name Pluronic®.

[0059] Gelatins are usually translucent, colorless, and typically obtained from collagen from various animal body parts. They are commonly used as gelling agents in the food, pharmaceutical industry, vitamin capsules, photography, and cosmetic manufacturing. Suitable gelatins may have a bloom of 90 to 300. Bloom is a test for measuring the strength of gels or gelatins, and is measured according to the method outlined in US Patent No. 1,540,979 by Bloom. The test measures the weight in grams required to press a 4 mm gel at a temperature of 25°C with a plunger having a diameter of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) against its surface without breaking it. The result is expressed in bloom (grade) units. This is usually between 30 and 300 blooms. To perform the bloom test on gelatin, a 6.67% by weight gelatin solution is kept at 10°C for 17 to 18 hours before testing.

[0060] Carrageenans are, for example, sulfated polysaccharides derived from red algae commonly known as Irish moss. They are typically composed mainly of α-D-galactopyranose-4-sulfate units and 3,6-anhydro-α-D-galactopyranose units. At least three forms, designated "iota", "kappa" and "lambda" carrageenans, respectively, are known, which differ in the ratio of the two galactopyranose units and thus in their sulfate ester content.

[0061] Kappa carrageenan is the major component in aqueous extracts from Chondrus crispus and Gigartina stellata. It has a lower sulfate content than iota and lambda carrageenans.

[0062] Chitosan is typically obtained by deacetylation under alkaline conditions of chitin, the second most abundant biopolymer in nature after cellulose. Chitin can be found as an important component of the exoskeleton of animals, especially crustaceans, mollusks, and insects, and is also the major polymer in the cell walls of certain fungi. Chitin and chitosan are linear polysaccharides consisting of randomly distributed β-(1-4) linked D-glucosamine (deacetylated units) and N-acetyl-glucosamine (acetylated units). Chitosan has two types of reactive groups that can be grafted: free amine groups on the deacetylated units, and hydroxyl groups on the C3 and C6 carbons on the acetylated or deacetylated units.

[0063] The chitosan of the present invention may have a molecular weight of 10,000 g / mol to 4,000,000 g / mol, preferably 70,000 g / mol to 1,600,000 g / mol. Suitable chitosans may have a degree of deacetylation of at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 75%.

[0064] The gel composition may be transparent or translucent. The gel composition may have any suitable shape, such as a star, a circle, or a pyramid. The gel composition may be colored by adding a dye. The gel composition of the present invention may be molded into a desired shape or even 3D printed.

[0065] The gel composition may be of any suitable shape or size, as both shape and size define the evaporation surface area of ​​the gel composition. It is known that the shape and size of the gel composition can affect the release and lifespan of hydrophobic materials. For example, a thin sheet will result in faster release and shorter lifespan compared to a sphere of the same mass of gel composition. A suitable gel composition has a surface area of ​​150 cm 2 Less than 3.0 to 100 cm, preferably 3.0 to 100 cm 2 , more preferably 6.0 to 60 cm 2 may have an evaporation surface area of

[0066] The evaporation surface area can be measured by creating a 3D model of the gel composition using CAD software and calculating the surface area using CAD software. Any suitable CAD software can be used, such as AutoCAD® 2013.

[0067] The total surface area of ​​the first and second central evaporation surfaces 4, 6 is 100 mm 2 ~10000mm 2 , 1000mm 2 ~8000mm 2 , 1500mm 2 ~6000mm 2 , 2000mm 2 ~4000mm 2 , or a different combination of the above upper and lower limits, or any combination of integers within the ranges listed above. The entire area of ​​the first central evaporation surface 4 and / or the second central evaporation surface 6 may be untextured, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Alternatively, the first central evaporation surface 4 may have a surface finish, as shown in Figure 5.

[0068] The surface finish may be textured, such as a matte finish, a three-dimensional surface texture, or a combination of a matte finish and a three-dimensional surface texture.

[0069] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser 10 having a component holder 13 and a solid deodorant 12 according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is an assembled view of the dispenser of FIG. 10. The solid deodorant 12 comprises a first central evaporative surface 14, a second central evaporative surface (not shown), a peripheral evaporative surface 15 surrounding the first and second central evaporative surfaces, and an anchor receiving component 17. The anchor receiving component 17 may be an opening extending between the first central evaporative surface 14 and the second central evaporative surface 16 that defines a through hole. The component holder 13 comprises an anchor 18 for releasably mounting to the anchor receiving component 17. The component holder 13 may further comprise a hanging tab 19 for the component holder 13 to support the solid deodorant 12 in a hanging configuration above a surface within the interior space when mounted to the mounting support, the solid deodorant 12 being releasably coupled to the anchor 18 via the anchor receiving component 17.

[0070] 7 is a perspective view of components of a volatile composition dispenser 50 according to the present invention. The dispenser 50 includes a solid deodorant 52, a component holder 60 for the solid deodorant 52, and a housing that accommodates the solid deodorant 52 and the component holder 60. The housing 51 may include a front cover 54 and a rear frame 56, which, when assembled, define a housing interior for receiving the solid deodorant 52. The component holder 60 may be disposed between the front cover 54 and the rear cover 56, and the component holder 60 is configured to hold the solid deodorant 52 in a predetermined position within the housing. Each of the front cover 54 and the rear frame 56 is provided with a plurality of openings 403 (hereinafter "openings") for volatilizing the volatile composition in the solid deodorant 52 into the interior space. Component holder 60 includes an anchor 62 for releasably attaching solid deodorant 52 to component holder 60, and a central opening 64 configured to surround solid deodorant 52. Solid deodorant 52 may include opening 64 sized and shaped to mate with anchor 62. Specifically, opening 64 extends through end 66 of solid deodorant 52. Specifically, housing 51 further includes inner surface 53, and visual indicator 58 is disposed on inner surface 53.

[0071] The housing, front cover, back cover, and component holder may be made from plastic, paper, or any material that is chemically compatible with the solid deodorant.

[0072] 8 is a front perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser 50. In accordance with the present invention, the solid deodorant 52 is an initial size and can be configured with a texture that obscures the visual indicator 58 in a first configuration in which the visual indicator 58 is not visually perceptible.

[0073] Figure 9 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser 50 of Figure 8 in a second configuration in which the visual indicator 58 is visually perceptible. Specifically, the solid deodorant may be able to shrink from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size relative to the surrounding evaporative surface upon exposure to the ambient environment within the interior space.

[0074] The technical effect of the shrinkage of the solid deodorant 52 is that the solid deodorant 52 provides a gap within the dispenser 50 for easier removal from the component holder 60 after the front cover 54 and rear cover 56 are removed.

[0075] The present invention also relates to a method of refilling a volatile composition dispenser with a solid deodorant, the method comprising: Providing a volatile composition dispenser as described above; applying pressure to one of the first central evaporative surface and the second central evaporative surface of the solid deodorant to remove the solid deodorant from the dispenser; releasably connecting a second solid deodorant to the dispenser.

[0076] A technical effect of the above method is that it is easy and intuitive for consumers to refill the volatile composition dispenser. The volatile composition dispenser may be an air freshener product, and the solid deodorant may be an air freshening gel composition.

[0077] The following examples are intended to more fully illustrate the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention, since many variations thereof are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. All parts, percentages and ratios herein are expressed as weight percent unless otherwise specified. EXAMPLES

[0078] Data is provided demonstrating a volatile composition dispenser of the present invention having a solid deodorant that can shrink to release from the mating connection between the solid deodorant and the dispenser to enable refilling. Solid deodorants according to the present invention were prepared according to the composition details set forth in Table 3 below and evaluated for their respective shrinkage (results are shown in Table 2).

[0079] [Table 3]

[0080] The inventive samples of solid deodorants are made according to the procedures described below with the composition details set forth in Table 3.

[0081] Preparation procedure: The polyol or its derivative is mixed with the volatile composition and optionally a hydroxyl-containing polymer is added. The crosslinker is then added at a temperature between 5°C and 35°C, preferably between 15°C and 30°C, and further mixed to obtain a homogeneous mixture. The mixture is poured into a mold of the desired shape and cured at a curing temperature, preferably between 20°C and 30°C. Such a temperature limits the evaporation of the volatile components of the hydrophobic material. Alternatively, the mixture may be kept below 5°C to avoid curing. Curing then starts only when the temperature is increased to the curing temperature.

[0082] The polyol or derivative thereof may be mixed with the crosslinker and, optionally, the hydroxyl-containing polymer for 10 minutes to 10 hours, preferably 15 minutes to 2 hours, at a temperature preferably between 20° C. and 85° C., more preferably between 30° C. and 75° C. The mixture may be cooled and the hydrophobic material may be added, preferably at a temperature between 10° C. and 40° C., more preferably between 15° C. and 30° C., and further mixed, for example, for 15 to 120 minutes. The mixture may be poured into a desired mold, preferably at a temperature between 20° C. and 30° C., and allowed to harden.

[0083] Alternatively, all of the components of the gel composition may be blended at a low temperature, such as below 5° C., before the temperature is increased to the curing temperature.

[0084] result The shrinkage results of the inventive samples 1 to 6 in Table 3 are shown below in Table 4. Specifically, the shrinkage is determined based on the following formula (1). Shrinkage rate = (initial length - contracted length) / initial length x 100% During the ceremony, Initial length = length or diameter of the solid deodorant before use Reduced Length = Length or diameter of the solid deodorant after a given period of use.

[0085] [Table 4]

[0086] All of the above inventive samples 1-6 have shrinkage between 6.3% and 12.5%, i.e., less than 40%. As a result, each of the samples at the end of life is a single integral piece with a size large enough to be easily removed, thereby reducing messiness. In contrast, conventional gels leave behind gelling polymers after the water and fragrance evaporate, and the remaining gelling polymers cause stickiness within the gel. Furthermore, the remaining gel also sticks to the container and is prone to tearing, resulting in a dirty residue.

[0087] An example is given below. A. A flexible solid deodorant for releasably coupling to a volatile composition dispenser, the solid deodorant having a first central evaporative surface, a second central evaporative surface, and a peripheral evaporative surface, the peripheral evaporative surface surrounding at least a portion of the first and second central evaporative surfaces to define a side of the deodorant, the deodorant configured to releasably couple to the dispenser, and at least a portion of the deodorant configured to releasably couple with at least a portion of the dispenser to form a solid surface substantially free of openings. B. A deodorant as described in paragraph A, wherein the shape of the outer contour of the solid deodorant corresponds to the inner contour of the dispenser. C. The deodorant of paragraphs A or B, wherein at least a portion of the deodorant is configured to releasably couple to at least a portion of the dispenser by one of an interference fit, a pressure fit, a friction fit, and combinations thereof. D. A deodorant according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a shape of at least a portion of the deodorant corresponds to a shape of at least a portion of the dispenser, at least a portion of the deodorant comprises an anchor receiving component, and at least a portion of the dispenser comprises an anchor. E. The deodorizer of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the solid deodorizer is capable of shrinking against a surrounding evaporative surface from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size when exposed to an ambient environment of the interior space. F. A deodorant according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the solid deodorant is non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% water by weight, and more preferably is substantially free of water. G. The deodorant of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the solid deodorant comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of ethyl cellulose polymers, chemically crosslinked polyols or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof. H. A deodorant according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the solid deodorant comprises a chemically crosslinked polyol, wherein the polyol or a derivative thereof is selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol is crosslinked using a crosslinker selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof. I. A volatile composition dispenser comprising: (a) a solid deodorant according to any one of the preceding paragraphs; (b) a releasable coupling for releasably coupling a solid deodorant to the dispenser, wherein each of the first and second central evaporative surfaces is substantially free of contact with surfaces within the dispenser. J. The dispenser of paragraph I, wherein the dispenser comprises an inner contour having a shape corresponding to an outer contour of the solid deodorant. K. The dispenser of paragraphs I or J, wherein the releasable connection is selected from the group consisting of a releasable mechanical connection, a releasable chemical connection, and combinations thereof. L. A dispenser comprising a releasable mechanical connection, at least a portion of the dispenser comprising an anchor disposed within the dispenser; The dispenser of paragraph K, wherein at least a portion of the deodorant comprises an anchor receiving component located at a proximal or distal end of the deodorant. M. The dispenser of paragraph L, wherein the size and shape of the anchor are configured to correspond to the size and shape of the anchor-receiving component. N. The dispenser of any preceding paragraph L or M, wherein the dispenser comprises a housing having a housing inner surface, and the anchor is disposed on the housing inner surface. O. The dispenser of any one of the preceding paragraphs L or M, wherein the dispenser comprises a component holder, the component holder comprises an opening characterized by a size corresponding to the size of the solid deodorant, and the anchor is disposed on an inner surface of the opening. P. A method for refilling a volatile composition dispenser with a solid deodorant, the method comprising: Providing a volatile composition dispenser according to any one of paragraphs I to O; applying pressure to one of the first central evaporative surface and the second central evaporative surface of the solid deodorant to remove the solid deodorant from the dispenser; and releasably connecting a second solid deodorant described in any one of paragraphs A through H to a dispenser.

[0088] 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 stated to the contrary. 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 any such invention, either alone or in combination with any other reference or references. Furthermore, to the extent that 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 govern.

[0089] 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. A flexible solid deodorant (2) for releasably connecting to a volatile composition dispenser (1), said solid deodorant (2) comprising a first central evaporative surface (4), a second central evaporative surface (6) and a peripheral evaporative surface (5), said peripheral evaporative surface (5) surrounding at least a portion of said first and second central evaporative surfaces (4, 6) to define a side of said deodorant (2), said deodorant (2) configured to releasably connect to said dispenser (1), and at least a portion of said deodorant configured to releasably connect with at least a portion of said dispenser to form a solid surface substantially free of openings.

2. 2. The deodorant (2) according to claim 1, wherein the shape of the outer contour (51) of the solid deodorant (2) corresponds to the inner contour (31) of the dispenser.

3. 3. The deodorant (2) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least a portion of the deodorant is configured to releasably couple to the at least a portion of the dispenser by one of an interference fit, a pressure fit, a friction fit, and combinations thereof.

4. A deodorizer (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the shape of the at least a portion of the deodorizer corresponds to the shape of the at least a portion of the dispenser, the at least a portion of the deodorizer comprises an anchor receiving component (17), and the at least a portion of the dispenser comprises an anchor (18).

5. 5. The deodorizer of claim 1, wherein the solid deodorizer (52) is capable of shrinking against the peripheral evaporative surface from an initial size to a reduced size smaller than the initial size when exposed to an ambient environment of an interior space.

6. 6. A deodorant according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the solid deodorant is non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% by weight of water, more preferably being substantially free of water.

7. 7. The deodorant of claim 1, wherein the solid deodorant comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of ethyl cellulose polymers, chemically crosslinked polyols or derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

8. 8. The deodorant according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the solid deodorant comprises a chemically crosslinked polyol, the polyol or a derivative thereof being selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates and mixtures thereof.

9. 1. A volatile composition dispenser comprising: (c) a solid deodorant according to any one of claims 1 to 8; (d) a releasable coupling for releasably coupling the solid deodorant to the dispenser, wherein each of the first and second central evaporative surfaces is substantially free of contact with surfaces within the dispenser.

10. 10. The dispenser of claim 9, wherein the dispenser comprises an inner contour having a shape corresponding to the outer contour of the solid deodorant.

11. 11. The dispenser of claim 9 or 10, wherein the releasable connection is selected from the group consisting of a releasable mechanical connection, a releasable chemical connection, and combinations thereof.

12. the dispenser comprising a releasable mechanical connection, the at least a portion of the dispenser comprising an anchor disposed within the dispenser; 12. The dispenser of claim 11, wherein the at least a portion of the deodorant comprises an anchor-receiving component located at a proximal or distal end of the deodorant.

13. The dispenser of claim 12 , wherein the size and shape of the anchor are configured to correspond to the size and shape of the anchor-receiving component.

14. 14. The dispenser of any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the dispenser comprises a housing having an inner housing surface, the anchor being disposed on the inner housing surface.

15. 14. The dispenser of claim 9, wherein the dispenser comprises a component holder, the component holder comprising an opening characterized by a size corresponding to a size of the solid deodorant, and the anchor is disposed on an inner surface of the opening.

16. 1. A method for refilling a volatile composition dispenser with a solid deodorant, the method comprising: Providing a volatile composition dispenser according to any one of claims 9 to 15; applying pressure to one of the first central evaporative surface and the second central evaporative surface of the solid deodorant to remove the solid deodorant from the dispenser; releasably connecting a second solid deodorant according to any one of claims 1 to 8 to the dispenser.

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