Volatile composition dispenser with activation lever

Abstract

A volatile composition dispenser (1) comprises a cartridge (30), a housing (10), and an activation lever (20) configured to be pivotable relative to the housing (10). The activation lever (20) is pivotable between a first position and a second position and is configured to puncture a ruptureable substrate (33) of the cartridge (30) and release therefrom at least one liquid volatile composition (31).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of devices and systems for delivering volatile compositions, and more particularly to a volatile composition dispenser having an activation lever, and a method for activating a volatile composition dispenser. [Background technology]

[0002] Systems for delivering volatile substances into the atmosphere are well known in this field, and examples include insecticides, air fresheners, and odor removers. Such systems function by evaporating volatile substances into space from a medium such as a permeable membrane, providing various benefits such as freshening the air, removing odors, or a combination thereof. Typically, volatile compositions are stored in sealed containers that are open or perforated in order to release the volatile composition into the air.

[0003] PCT International Publication No. 98 / 16262 (hereinafter, "International Publication No. 98 / 16262") describes a disposable air freshener dispenser device having a manually operable push-button actuator for initiating the dispensing of an air freshener composition into the atmosphere. The device of International Publication No. 98 / 16262 has an air freshener medium in a container and has a push-button actuator that can be manually operated to rupture a foil covering the container in order to initiate the dispensing of the air freshener into the atmosphere. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] PCT International Publication No. 98 / 16262 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] However, after the wheel bursts, the push-button actuator remains over the opening in the wheel, blocking the path for the air freshener to be delivered. Therefore, there is a need to be able to burst the wheel without obstructing the delivery of the air freshener.

[0006] A further problem associated with such devices is that it is difficult for users (such as consumers) to determine whether the air freshener device has been activated until they smell the air freshener composition. As a result, if consumers do not smell the air freshener composition, they may assume that the device has not been activated or is not functioning properly, which leads to decreased consumer satisfaction. Another problem with prior art devices is that it is not easy for other users (such as retail store owners) to detect whether such devices have been tampered with or unintentionally activated during handling or delivery to retail stores. This can result in defective air freshener devices being placed on store shelves for sale, which can lead to consumer complaints if consumers purchase defective devices. Therefore, there is a need for a device that can be manually operated and simultaneously provides a signal to the user to indicate that the device has been activated, thereby delivering volatile substances. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To address the needs identified above, the present invention provides a volatile composition dispenser, (a) A cartridge comprising a reservoir of at least one liquid volatile composition and a ruptureable substrate for enclosing the reservoir, (b) A housing defining an internal compartment in which a cartridge is arranged, wherein a frame opening is formed through the housing and defines an extending surface to which the frame opening extends, (c) An activation lever positioned in a frame opening and configured to be pivotable relative to the housing, comprising a hammer portion and a handle portion, The present invention provides a volatile composition dispenser in which the activation lever is configured to be pivotable between a first position in which the hammer portion of the activation lever extends below the extending surface of the frame opening and into the internal compartment of the housing, and the handle portion of the activation lever extends above the extending surface of the frame opening and outward from the housing, and a second position in which the hammer portion of the activation lever causes the rupture of the ruptureable substrate of the cartridge, thereby releasing at least one liquid volatile composition from the cartridge. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] This specification details the present invention and concludes with claims that clearly define it, but the present invention will be better understood from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] This is a front perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a rear perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser shown. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is an exploded side perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser shown. [Figure 4] This is a rear perspective view of the rupture mechanism of a volatile composition dispenser according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a rear perspective view of the frame opening and activation lever of a volatile composition dispenser according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the frame opening and activation lever of the volatile composition dispenser shown. [Figure 7A] These are cross-sectional views of a volatile composition dispenser according to one embodiment, showing the first, second, and third positions of the activation lever, respectively. [Figure 7B] These are cross-sectional views of a volatile composition dispenser according to one embodiment, showing the first, second, and third positions of the activation lever, respectively. [Figure 7C]Cross-sectional views of a volatile composition dispenser according to an embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 8A] Perspective views of a volatile composition dispenser according to an embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 8B] Perspective views of a volatile composition dispenser according to an embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 8C] Perspective views of a volatile composition dispenser according to an embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 9A] Cross-sectional views of a volatile composition dispenser according to another embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 9B] Cross-sectional views of a volatile composition dispenser according to another embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 9C] Cross-sectional views of a volatile composition dispenser according to another embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 10A] Perspective views of a volatile composition dispenser according to another embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 10B] Perspective views of a volatile composition dispenser according to another embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 10C] Perspective views of a volatile composition dispenser according to another embodiment, each showing a first position, a second position, and a third position of an activation lever. [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view of a volatile composition dispenser according to a further embodiment showing different configurations of an activation lever. **DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION**

[0009] The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser for delivering volatile substances into the atmosphere. The dispenser is suitable for supplying fragrances, air fresheners, deodorants, odor neutralizers, insecticides, insect repellents, medical substances, disinfectants, cleaning agents, mood enhancers, aromatherapy aids, or any other purpose that uses volatile substances or volatile compositions that act to conditioned, correct, or otherwise alter the state of the atmosphere or environment. For the purpose of illustrating the present invention in detail, but without intending to limit the scope of the present invention, the present invention describes a volatile composition dispenser for delivering liquid compositions containing fragrances, fragrance components and / or crude fragrance raw materials.

[0010] Figure 1 shows a front perspective view of an embodiment of the volatile composition dispenser 1 according to the present invention, and Figure 2 shows a rear perspective view of the dispenser 1. The volatile composition dispenser 1 comprises a housing 10 having a front cover 100 and a rear frame 200, the front cover 100 and the rear frame 200 defining an internal space. The rear frame 200 is provided with a frame opening 201 located substantially in the center of the rear frame 200. An activation lever 20 is disposed within the frame opening 201 and is pivotable relative to the rear frame 200 to allow a user to activate the volatile composition dispenser 1. A cartridge 30 containing a volatile composition 31 is located within the housing 10.

[0011] Figure 3 shows the internal components of the volatile composition dispenser 1. The front cover 100 has a window 101 configured to show the cartridge 30. The cartridge 30 comprises a container 32 having an orifice 321, inside which the volatile composition 31 (shown in Figure 1) is stored. A burstable substrate 33 covers the orifice 74, and is sealably attached to the orifice 321 defining the reservoir to prevent the volatile composition 31 from being released until the volatile composition dispenser 1 is activated. By activating a bursting mechanism 34 positioned adjacent to the burstable substrate 33, the burstable substrate 33 can burst and release the volatile composition 31. The bursting mechanism 34 comprises a movable member 35 movably attached to the outer frame 36 by an elastic member 38. The elastic member 38 can be formed from one or more springs 38. One or more bursting elements 37 are positioned within the bursting mechanism 34 to puncture and puncture the burstable substrate 33. The bursting element 37 may be a pin, a tooth, or a tine. The cartridge 30 may include a breathable membrane 39 located outside the cartridge 30. The breathable membrane 39 may be sealably attached to a flange 322 located on the outer edge 323 of the container 32. The breathable membrane 39 encloses the container 32, the volatile composition 31, the burstable substrate 33, and the bursting mechanism 34. The breathable membrane 39 may be configured to flex when pressure or an actuation force is applied to the breathable membrane 39.

[0012] Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of the rupture mechanism 34 of the volatile composition dispenser 1. The rupture mechanism 34 comprises an outer frame 36 and a movable member 35 movably attached to the outer frame 36 by an elastic member 38. The movable member 35 comprises a substantially flat first surface facing the permeable membrane 39 and a second surface opposite the first surface and facing the ruptureable substrate 33. The movable member 35 is movable relative to the outer frame 36 through the bending of the elastic member 38 when a force is applied to the first surface of the movable member 35 during the operation of the activation lever 20. The elastic member 38 may be a spring that elastically connects the outer frame 36 and the movable member 35.

[0013] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, a pair of bursting elements 37 are spaced apart on the movable member 35, extending from opposing edges 347 of the movable member 35, with each bursting element 37 having a tip for puncturing a rupturable substrate 33. It can be understood that there may be three or more bursting elements 37 or just one bursting element 37, and that the bursting elements 37 may be positioned at any suitable location on the movable member 35. For example, the first bursting element 37 may be positioned on the first opposing edges of the movable member 35, and the second pair of bursting elements 37 may be positioned on a second opposing edge of the movable member 35, different from the first opposing edges, to allow the cartridge 30 to be used in a different orientation. The position of the bursting elements 37 is configured to puncture the rupturable substrate 33, allowing air to enter the container 32 and the volatile composition to be discharged from the container 32.

[0014] Furthermore, in embodiments not shown, the movable member 35 may include one or more elongated ribs arranged to increase the rigidity or stiffness of the movable member 35. For example, the elongated ribs may project from the second surface, extend from the edge of the movable member 35, and converge at the center of the movable member 35.

[0015] As shown in Figure 4, the elastic member 38 can be a spring or a parallel spring system. The spring may be a beam or a torsion member. In one embodiment, the elastic member 38 is a torsion and may comprise a first arm 382 attached to the outer frame 36, a second arm 383 attached to the movable member 35, and an elongated channel member 384 extending between the first arm 382 and the second arm 383. In one embodiment, the elongated channel member 384 comprises two substantially parallel side beams 385 and a bottom beam 386, forming a substantially U-shape.

[0016] To activate the volatile composition dispenser 1, the user pushes the activation lever 20 until it contacts and even presses against the bursting mechanism 34 (through the permeable membrane 39), causing the bursting element 37 (such as a pin, tooth, or tine) on the bursting mechanism 34 to puncture the rupturable substrate 33. Once the rupturable substrate 33 is punctured, the volatile composition 31 flows out of the container 32, wetting the permeable membrane 39, and is then delivered to the surrounding atmosphere by evaporation from the permeable membrane 39.

[0017] According to embodiments of the present invention, the activation lever 20 and rear frame 200 are configured to activate the volatile composition dispenser 1, thereby providing the user with a more tactile and intuitive user experience, while also enabling the efficient and controlled rupture of the rupturable substrate 33 in the cartridge 30.

[0018] The frame opening 201 can be located substantially in the center of the rear frame 200 and defines an extending surface 202 into which the frame opening 201 extends. The start lever 20 is located within the frame opening 201 and is pivotable relative to the rear frame 200. The frame opening 201 can be formed as a through hole in the rear frame 200. For example, according to one embodiment of the present invention, an inner wall 40 is provided on the outer edge of the frame opening 201 and can extend from inside the rear frame 200 into the housing 10. The inner wall 40 defines the frame opening 201. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner wall 40 is solid and cylindrical in shape. However, the inner wall 40 may take several other shapes, such as a square or rectangular cross-section. The inner wall 40 may be substantially cylindrical and comprise a continuous wall or segmented walls such as a lattice structure or a plurality of interconnected elongated columns. The inner wall 40 can define the extension of the frame opening 201 into the housing 10, which has a central longitudinal axis connecting from the center of the frame opening 201. The inner wall 40 may be configured to allow the start lever 20, and at least a portion of the start lever 20, to pivot freely inside the inner wall 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner wall 40, the start lever 20, and the rear frame 200 may include plastic to facilitate manufacturing. Alternatively, the inner wall 40, the start lever 20, and the rear frame 200 may include sheet metal such as spring steel and may be punched or milled.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the starting lever 20 is connected to the rear frame 200 of the housing 10 at the frame opening 201 by a hinge structure 230 so that the starting lever 20 can pivot relative to the rear frame 200. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the starting lever 20 can also be pivotably connected to the inner wall 40.

[0020] The hinge structure 230 is configured to allow the start lever 20 to pivot relative to the rear frame 200. As shown in Figure 6, the hinge structure 230 is located inside the frame opening 201 and comprises a pivot shaft coupled to the rear frame 200 of the housing 10, particularly the inner wall 40. The pivot shaft may be in the form of, for example, a pin. According to one embodiment, the pivot shaft is fixed to or integral with the rear frame 200 of the housing 10, and the start lever 20 further comprises a through hole into which the pivot shaft fits, so that the start lever 20 may be pivotable around the pivot shaft and therefore relative to the rear frame 200 of the housing 10. According to another embodiment, the rear frame 200 of the housing 10 further comprises two blind holes in the frame opening 203 into which a pivot shaft is fitted, that is, each of the two ends of the pivot shaft is fitted into one of the two blind holes, so that the pivot shaft is supported by the rear frame 200 of the housing 10 and can be rotatably fitted into the two blind holes. The start lever 20 is fixed to the pivot shaft or is integral with the shaft, so that the start lever 20 can pivot relative to the rear frame 200 of the housing 10 by the pivot shaft.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figures 7A to 11, the activation lever 20 comprises a hammer portion 210 for pressing a bursting mechanism 34 to puncture a burstable substrate 33, and a handle portion 220 for being operated (e.g., pressed) by the user. The hammer portion 210 and the handle portion 220 may be formed from a single part so that the activation lever 20 may be a single molded part. Alternatively, the hammer portion 210 and the handle portion 220 may be formed separately and then joined or fixed to each other. The hammer portion 210 and the handle portion 220 may be joined to each other in a hinge structure 230.

[0022] The handle portion 220 of the starting lever 20 may be in the form of a tab, seat, or rod. Similarly, the hammer portion 210 of the starting lever 20 may be in the form of a tab, seat, or rod. The hammer portion 210 of the starting lever 20 has an end opposite to the handle portion 220, which may be rounded to facilitate the hammer portion 210 pressing the breaking mechanism 34 during the pivoting motion of the starting lever 20. In the embodiments shown in Figures 5 and 6, the ends of the hammer portion 210 of the starting lever 20 include a first end 211 and a second end 213 separated from each other by a recess 212. The recess 212 is formed between the first end 211 and the second end 213.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the handle portion 220 of the starting lever 20 has a length of 20% to 150%, 50% to 120%, or 70% to 100% of the length of the hammer portion 210 of the starting lever 20. The handle portion is not disproportionately longer or larger than the hammer portion, and as a result, it is desirable that the protruding handle portion does not significantly obstruct space when shipped or stored, while providing consumers with a clear visual signal of the device's pre-start state. The length of the handle portion 220 is the length in the direction of the handle portion 220 extending from the connection between the hammer portion 210 and the handle portion 220, such as the length of the handle portion 220 extending within the pages of Figures 7A to 7C. Similarly, the length of the hammer portion 210 is the length in the direction of the hammer portion 210 extending from the connection between the hammer portion 210 and the handle portion 220, such as the length of the hammer portion 210 extending within the pages of Figures 7A to 7C.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the handle portion 220 and the hammer portion 210 of the starting lever 20 form an angle of 90° to 180°, or 100° to 170°, or 120° to 160°, or 130° to 150°, or preferably 145°. Generally, such an angle can be considered to be the angle formed by the length extension of the hammer portion 210 and the length extension of the handle portion 220. As shown in Figures 7A to 7C and Figures 9A to 9C, the angle formed by the handle portion 220 and the hammer portion 210 is an obtuse angle, and as shown in Figure 11, the angle formed by the handle portion 220 and the hammer portion 210 is a linear angle where the length extension of the hammer portion 210 coincides with or aligns with the length extension of the handle portion 220. In certain embodiments, the angle between the handle portion 220 and the hammer portion 210 is obtuse (similar to that shown in Figure 11), which allows the handle portion 220 to start from an upright pre-start position and end in a post-start position flush with or substantially parallel to the rear frame 200, while the hammer portion can effectively move from an inclined pre-start position to a lower-right start position and end in a post-start position inclined with respect to the rear frame 200 (as shown in Figures 7A-7C).

[0025] The above description of the size, shape, and structure of the starting lever 20 is illustrative and not limiting. Those skilled in the art will understand that the starting lever 20 may take any suitable size, shape, and structure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the activation lever 20 is configured to be pivotable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, as shown in Figures 7A, 8A, 9A, and 10A, the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 extends below the extending surface 202 of the frame opening 201 and into the internal compartment of the housing 10, while the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20 extends above the extending surface 202 of the frame opening 201 and outside the housing 10. The handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20 protrudes beyond the housing, providing the user with a clear visual signal that the volatile composition dispenser 1 is currently in a pre-operation state, i.e., that the volatile composition dispenser 1 is not activated. In addition, this configuration of the handle portion 220 facilitates the user to activate the volatile composition dispenser 1 by pressing the handle portion 220. In the second position, as shown in Figures 7B, 8B, 9B, and 10B, the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 causes the rupture of the ruptureable substrate 33 of the cartridge 30, releasing at least one liquid volatile composition 31 therefrom. The terms “up” and “down” as used herein are defined based on the orientation of the components in the figures, such as Figures 7A–7C and 9A–9C. When the activation lever 20 is pushed by the user and pivots from the first position to the second position, the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20 is pushed, thereby causing the activation lever 20 to pivot around the pivot shaft of the hinge structure 230 and thus relative to the rear frame 200 of the housing 10. Both the hammer portion 210 and the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20 pivot around the pivot shaft. As the activation lever 20 pivots from a first position to a second position, the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 exerts force on the rupture mechanism 34, causing the rupture mechanism 34 to rupture the rupturable substrate 33 in the cartridge 30, releasing therefrom at least one liquid volatile composition 31.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figures 7A to 10C, during the operation of the starting lever 20, the position of the starting lever 20 relative to the rear frame 200 of the housing 10 changes, and the angles of the hammer portion 210 and handle portion 220 of the starting lever 20 relative to the extending surface 202 on which the frame opening 201 extends also change. In the first position, as shown in Figures 7A and 9A, the handle portion 220 of the starting lever 20 extends away from the extending surface 202 at an angle of 30° to 150°, or 45° to 135°, or 60° to 120°, or preferably 90°, and the hammer portion 210 of the starting lever 20 extends away from the extending surface 202 at an angle of 10° to 80°, or 20° to 60°, or 30° to 40°, or preferably 35°. In the second position, as shown in Figures 7B and 9B, the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 is modified to extend away from the extending surface 202 at an angle of 70° to 110°, or 80° to 100°, or 85° to 95°, or preferably 90°.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figures 7A to 10C, the start lever 20 is further configured to pivot from a second position to a third position, as shown in Figures 7C, 8C, 9C, and 10C, where the handle portion 220 of the start lever 20 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the extending surface 202 of the frame opening 201. In this case, the start lever 20 may pivot further beyond the second position after reaching it. In the third position, the handle portion 220 of the start lever 20 is substantially parallel to the extending surface 202 of the frame opening 201, which provides the user with a clear visual signal that the volatile composition dispenser 1 is now in a post-start state, i.e., that the volatile composition dispenser 1 has been fully started. In addition, this configuration of the handle portion 220 provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance for the volatile composition dispenser 1, as shown in Figures 8C and 10C. The term "substantially parallel" indicates that the angle formed between the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20 and the extending surface 202 of the frame opening 201 may be in the range of -15° to 15°. In the third position, the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 extends away from the extending surface 202 at an angle of 45° to 70°, or 50° to 65°, or 55° to 60°, or preferably 60°.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the activation lever 20 can be locked in a third position once it reaches that position. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the volatile composition dispenser 1 comprises a first fastener 241 and a second fastener 242. Both the first fastener 241 and the second fastener 242 may be positioned within the frame opening 201, preferably facing each other. As shown in Figure 6, the first fastener 241 may be on the opposite side of the second fastener 242 in a direction perpendicular to the pivot shaft of the hinge structure 230. In the third position, the first stopper 241 interacts with the end of the handle portion 220 of the start lever 20 to prevent the start lever 20 from pivoting backward from the third position to the second position or the first position, and the second stopper 242 interacts with the hammer portion 210 of the start lever 20 to prevent the start lever 20 from pivoting further beyond the third position, so that the start lever 20 is locked in the third position.

[0030] The first fastener 241 can be provided on the inner wall 40 in the form of a projection that protrudes from the inner wall 40 toward the center of the frame opening 201. In one embodiment, the first fastener 241 can form a snap fit with the end of the handle portion 220 of the starting lever 20. While the starting lever 20 pivots between a first position and a second position, the first fastener 241 does not contact the end of the handle portion 220 of the starting lever 20. While the starting lever 20 pivots from the second position to a third position, the end of the handle portion 220 contacts the first fastener 241, and the handle portion 220 of the starting lever 20 needs to move over the first fastener 241, overcoming the interaction between the end of the handle portion 220 and the first fastener 241. After the handle portion 220 of the starting lever 20 moves beyond the first stopper 241 and the starting lever 20 reaches its third position, the first stopper 241 is configured to prevent the starting lever 20 from pivoting backward from the third position to the second position and / or the first position, as shown in Figures 7C and 9C.

[0031] The second fastener 242 can be provided on the inner wall 40 in the form of a platform or block extending from the inner wall 40 toward the center of the frame opening 201. While the start lever 20 pivots between the first and second positions, the second fastener 242 does not contact the hammer portion 210 of the start lever 20. When the start lever 20 pivots from the second position to the third position, the hammer portion 220 comes into contact with the second fastener 242 and is blocked by the second fastener 242, thereby preventing the start lever 20 from pivoting further from the third position, for example, beyond the third position, as shown in Figures 7C and 9C. Thus, the start lever 20 can be locked in the third position by the combination of the first fastener 241 and the second fastener 242.

[0032] Generally, it is desirable that the activation lever 20 be held in its first position before being used by the user. In fact, the activation lever 20 may be maintained in the first position to prevent accidental activation and thus activation of the volatile composition dispenser 1, but it may be preferable that it be easily pushed to activate the volatile composition dispenser 1 while the user desires to use the volatile composition dispenser 1. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a fixing element 243 is provided to achieve such an effect. The activation lever 20 is stabilized on the rear frame 200 of the housing 10 and held in the first position by the fixing element 243. The fixing element 243 is connected between the activation lever 20 and the inner wall 40. Alternatively, in the case of a second fastener 242, the fixing element 243 may be connected between the activation lever 20 and the second fastener 242, as shown in Figures 5 and 6. When the activation lever 20 pivots from the first position to the second position, the fixing element 243 is removed or destroyed to allow movement of the activation lever 20. The fixing element 243 can be broken by applying pressure to the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20. Such pressure can be generated by a user pushing the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20, and the activation lever 20 can be pivoted from a first position to a second position by such pressure. For example, the fixing element 243 may be in the form of a tab or sheet with a fragile line that breaks when a user pushes the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20.

[0033] The operation of the volatile composition dispenser 1 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 7A to 10C.

[0034] The volatile composition dispenser 1 includes a pre-startup state, an activated state, and a post-startup state. Figures 7A and 8A show the pre-startup state of the volatile composition dispenser 1. In the pre-startup state, the start lever 20 is fixed to the rear frame 200 of the housing 10 and held in a first position by a fixing element 243. The hammer portion 210 of the start lever 20 extends below the extending surface 202 of the frame opening 201 and into the internal compartment of the housing 10, while the handle portion 220 of the start lever 20 extends above the extending surface 202 of the frame opening 201 and to the outside of the housing 10, providing the user with a clear visual signal that the volatile composition dispenser 1 is currently in the pre-startup state. The hammer portion 210 of the start lever 20 may be in contact with the breathable membrane 39, or it may be at a certain distance from the breathable membrane 39. The bursting mechanism 34 is sandwiched between the breathable membrane 39 and the burstable substrate 33, and is pressed by the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20, so as not to come into contact with and puncture the burstable substrate 33.

[0035] If a user wishes to activate the volatile composition dispenser 1 and release at least one liquid volatile composition 31 from it, the user can push the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20, for example, by pushing the handle portion 220 toward the left in Figures 7A and 7C, thereby pivoting the activation lever 20 from a first position to a second position, and thereby activating the volatile composition dispenser 1 from a pre-activation state to an activated state. Figures 7B and 8B show the activated state of the volatile composition dispenser 1. During the process from the pre-activation state to the activated state, the fixed element 243 is broken by pushing the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20, and then the activation lever 20 is pivoted from a first position to a second position. In the activated state, the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 is pivoted to apply pressure to the permeable membrane 39 which bends toward the bursting mechanism 34, and then applies pressure to the bursting mechanism 34, in particular its movable member 35. The rupture mechanism 34, particularly its movable member 35, moves toward the ruptureable substrate 33 together with the rupture element 37 under such pressure, and perforates it. In some cases, the ruptureable substrate 33 may also bend downward as the movable member 35 of the rupture mechanism 34 moves downward. At least one liquid volatile composition 31 can be released from the container 32 through the hole formed in the ruptureable substrate 33 by the rupture element 37 of the rupture mechanism 34, which perforates the ruptureable substrate 33.

[0036] When the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20 is pressed and held down, the activation lever 20 is further pivoted from the second position to the third position, so as to move the volatile composition dispenser 1 from the activated state to the post-activated state, during which the pressure applied to the bursting mechanism by the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 is reduced with further pivoting of the activation lever 20. The bursting mechanism 34 can be moved backward (upward) by the elastic force of the elastic member 38. In this case, the burstable substrate 33 and the permeable membrane 39 can be adaptively bent.

[0037] The activation lever 20 pivots from a first position through a second position to a third position, and when the user presses the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20, a click effect is produced, which provides the user with a great tactile sensation.

[0038] Figures 7C and 8C show the volatile composition dispenser 1 in the activated state. In the activated state, the handle portion 220 of the activation lever 20 extends substantially parallel to the extending surface 202 of the frame opening 201, providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance for the volatile composition dispenser 1. As shown in Figure 7C, the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 is still in contact with the permeable membrane 39, applying pressure to the permeable membrane 39 and the bursting mechanism 34. The bursting mechanism 34, particularly its movable member 35, is returned only partially to its original position, not completely. In this case, the hole formed in the burstable substrate 33 is sufficiently large to be partially exposed. Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown, in the activated state, the hammer portion 210 of the activation lever 20 is separated from the permeable membrane 39 and no longer applies pressure to the bursting mechanism 34. In this case, the hole formed in the burstable substrate 33 can be fully exposed to release at least one liquid volatile composition 31. The partial return of the movable member 35 of the rupture mechanism 34 allows the hole formed in the ruptureable substrate 33 to be at least partially exposed, facilitating the release of at least one liquid volatile composition 31.

[0039] Figures 9A to 10C show embodiments similar to those in Figures 7A to 8C, except that the starting lever 20 is pivoted in the opposite direction to that shown in Figures 7A to 8C. The handle portion 220 is pushed to the left in Figures 7A to 7C, and the handle portion 220 is pushed to the right in Figures 9A to 9C.

[0040] The volatile composition dispenser 1 may have small shape factors, such as shape factors similar to a computer mouse, to be ergonomically comfortable in the user's hand or to facilitate use. The internal components of the cartridge 30 shown in Figure 3 can be characterized as follows. For example, the dimensions of the container 32 may be configured to hold about 1 mL to about 50 mL of liquid volatile composition. Alternatively, the reservoir may 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, or alternatively about 6 mL of liquid volatile composition. Furthermore, the shape of the container 32 may be configured to correspond to the shape of the opening 101 of the front cover 100. For example, the container 32 may define a substantially elliptical or oblong shape, and its width-to-length ratio may be about 1:2 to 1:2.5.

[0041] The rupturable substrate 33 can be made from any material that ruptures upon application of force, whether or not elements that aid in such rupture are present. Since the rupturable substrate 33 is intended to contain volatile materials during storage, it can be made from any barrier material that prevents the evaporation of volatile materials before its intended use. Such materials can be impermeable to vapors and liquids. Suitable barrier materials for the rupturable substrate 33 include flexible films such as polymer films, flexible foils, or composite materials such as foil / polymer film laminates. Suitable flexible foils include nitrocellulose protective lacquer, 20-micron aluminum foil, polyurethane primer, and 15 g / m² foil available from Alcan Packaging. 2Examples include metal foils such as foils made from polyethylene coating agents (Lidfoil 118-0092). Suitable polymer films include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films, acrylonitrile copolymer barrier films (such as those sold by INOES under the trademark name Barex®), ethylene vinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof. It is also intended that the coated barrier film may be used as a ruptureable substrate 33. Examples of such coated barrier films that may be used include metallized PET, metallized polypropylene, silica, or alumina coated films. Any of these barrier materials, whether coated or uncoated, may be used alone and / or in combination with other barrier materials.

[0042] The bursting element 37 can be manufactured by injection molding, compression molding, or pressure molding using polyethylene or polyolefin such as polypropylene, polyester, or other plastics known to be suitable for molding. The bursting element 37 may also be manufactured by thermoforming, with a separate cutting step to remove undesirable portions.

[0043] The breathable membrane 39 can have an average pore size of from about 0.01 to about 0.06 microns, alternatively from about 0.01 to about 0.05 microns, alternatively from about 0.01 to about 0.04 microns, alternatively from about 0.01 to about 0.03 microns, alternatively from about 0.02 to about 0.04 microns, alternatively about 0.02 microns. Further, the breathable membrane 39 may be filled with any suitable filler and plasticizer well-known in the art. Examples of the filler include pulverized silica, clay, zeolite, carbonate, activated carbon, and mixtures thereof. The microporous breathable membrane 39 may be filled with silica at about 50% to about 80%, alternatively about 60% to about 80%, alternatively about 70% to about 80%, alternatively about 70% to about 75% based on the total weight. The thickness of the breathable membrane 39 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.

[0044] Furthermore, the evaporation surface area of the microporous breathable membrane 39 is from about 2 cm 2 to about 100 cm 2 or from about 2 cm 2 to about 25 cm 2 or from about 10 cm 2 to about 50 cm 2 or from about 10 cm 2 to about 45 cm 2 or from about 10 cm 2 to about 35 cm 2 or from about 15 cm 2 to about 40 cm 2 or from about 15 cm 2 to about 35 cm 2 or from about 20 cm 2 to about 35 cm 2 or from about 30 cm 2 to about 35 cm 2 or from about 35 cm 2 and can be. Therefore, the rear frame 200 can be sized and shaped to fit the evaporation surface area of the breathable membrane 39.

[0045] Suitable microporous membranes of the present invention include microporous, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), optionally filled with silica, as described in U.S. Patent No. 7,498,369. Examples of such UHMWPE microporous membranes include Daramic® V5, available from Daramic; Solupor®, available from DSM (Netherlands); Teslin®, available from PPG Industries; and combinations thereof.

[0046] Suitable volatile substances or compositions for use in cartridge 30 for volatile composition dispenser 1 may be configured to regulate, modify, or otherwise alter the state of the atmosphere and may include compositions suitable for supplying fragrances, air fresheners, deodorizers, odor neutralizers, insecticides, insect repellents, medical substances, disinfectants, cleaning agents, mood enhancers, and aromatherapy aids. A list of suitable volatile materials is shown in Table 1 below.

[0047] [Table 1]

[0048] The composition may be formulated to include a mixture of volatile materials, each comprising about 10% to about 100% of the total weight of a volatile material having a VP of less than about 0.01 torr at 25°C, alternatively, about 40% to about 100% of the total weight of a volatile material having a VP of less than about 0.1 torr at 25°C, alternatively, about 50% to about 100% of the total weight of a volatile material having a VP of less than about 0.1 torr at 25°C, or alternatively, about 90% to about 100% of the total weight of a volatile material having a VP of less than about 0.3 torr at 25°C. A mixture of volatile materials may contain 0% to about 15% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.004 torr to about 0.035 torr at 25°C; 0% to about 25% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.1 torr to about 0.325 torr at 25°C; and about 65% to about 100% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.035 torr to about 0.1 torr at 25°C. One source of information for obtaining the saturated vapor pressure of volatile materials is the EPI Suite®, version 4.0, available from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

[0049] One example is shown below: A. A volatile composition dispenser (1), (a) A cartridge (30) comprising a reservoir of at least one liquid volatile composition (31) and a burstable substrate (33) for enclosing the reservoir, (b) A housing (10) defining an internal compartment in which a cartridge (30) is placed, wherein a frame opening (201) is formed penetrating the housing (10) and defining an extending surface (202) to which the frame opening (201) extends, (c) An activation lever (20) positioned in a frame opening (201) and configured to be pivotable relative to the housing (10), comprising a hammer portion (210) and a handle portion (220), A volatile composition dispenser, wherein the activation lever (20) is configured to be pivotable between a first position in which the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) extends below the extending surface (202) of the frame opening (201) and into the internal compartment of the housing (10), and the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) extends above the extending surface (202) of the frame opening (201) and to the outside of the housing (10), and a second position in which the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) causes the rupture of the ruptureable substrate (33) of the cartridge (30) to release at least one liquid volatile composition (31) from the cartridge (30). B. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph A, wherein the activation lever (20) is configured to pivot from a second position to a third position in which the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) extends in a direction substantially parallel to the extending surface (202) of the frame opening (201). C. The volatile composition dispenser (1) described in paragraph B is configured such that the activation lever (20) can be locked in a third position. D. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph C, further comprising a first fastener (241) and a second fastener (242) both located within a frame opening (201) and facing each other, wherein in a third position, the first fastener (241) interacts with the end of the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) to prevent the activation lever (20) from pivoting backward from the third position, and the second fastener (242) interacts with the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) to prevent the activation lever (20) from pivoting further from the third position, thereby locking the activation lever (20) in the third position. E. The volatile composition dispenser (1) described in paragraph A, wherein the activation lever (20) is connected to the housing (10) at a frame opening (201) by a hinge structure (230). F. The volatile composition dispenser (1) described in paragraph E, wherein the hinge structure (230) is located inside the frame opening (201) and comprises a pivot shaft coupled to the housing (10). G. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph F, wherein the activation lever (20) further comprises a through hole into which a pivot shaft is fitted, and as a result the activation lever (20) may be pivotable around the pivot shaft and relative to the housing (10). H. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph F, wherein the housing (10) further comprises two blind holes in the frame opening (201) into which a pivot shaft is fitted, and the start lever (20) is fixed to or integral with the pivot shaft so that the start lever (20) may be pivotable relative to the housing (10) by the pivot shaft. I. The volatile composition dispenser (1) described in paragraph A may have an integrated molded part as the activation lever (20). J. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph A, wherein the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) has a length of 20% to 150%, 50% to 120%, or 70% to 100% of the length of the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20). K. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph A, wherein the handle portion (220) and hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) form an angle of 90° to 180°, or 100° to 170°, or 120° to 160°, or 130° to 150°, or preferably 145°. L. In a first position, the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) extends away from the extending surface (202) at an angle of 30° to 150°, or 45° to 135°, or 60° to 120°, or preferably 90°, the volatile composition dispenser (1) as described in paragraph A. M. In a first position, the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) extends away from the extending surface (202) at an angle of 10° to 80°, or 20° to 60°, or 30° to 40°, or preferably 35°, the volatile composition dispenser (1) as described in paragraph A. N. In a second position, the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) extends away from the extending surface (202) at an angle of 70° to 110°, or 80° to 100°, or 85° to 95°, or preferably 90°, the volatile composition dispenser (1) as described in paragraph A. O. In a third position, the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) extends away from the extending surface (202) at an angle of 45° to 70°, or 50° to 65°, or 55° to 60°, or preferably 60°, as described in paragraph B of the volatile composition dispenser (1). P. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph A, wherein the activation lever (20) is stabilized with respect to the housing (10) and held in a first position by a fixing element (243), and when the activation lever (20) pivots from the first position to a second position, the fixing element (243) is removed or destroyed to allow movement of the activation lever (20). Q. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph P, wherein the fixing element (243) is broken by applying pressure to the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20), thereby allowing the activation lever (20) to pivot from a first position to a second position. R. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph A, further comprising a cartridge (30) enclosing a reservoir and a permeable membrane (39) for evaporating at least one liquid volatile composition (31) into the atmosphere. A volatile composition dispenser (1) according to paragraph R, further comprising a bursting mechanism (34) sandwiched between a burstable substrate (33) and a breathable membrane (39), wherein when an activation lever (20) pivots from a first position to a second position, the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) exerts force on the bursting mechanism (34), causing the bursting mechanism (34) to move, thereby bursting the burstable substrate (33) in the cartridge (30) and releasing therefrom at least one liquid volatile composition (31). T. A method for delivering at least one liquid volatile composition into the atmosphere, (i) To provide a volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of the prior claims, (ii) A method comprising activating a volatile composition dispenser (1) by applying pressure to the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20). The method according to paragraph T, wherein activating the volatile composition dispenser (1) includes applying pressure to the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) to pivot the activation lever (20) from a first position to a second position.

[0050] Herein, various embodiments are described to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, manufacture, and use principles of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the apparatus and methods specifically described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure is defined solely by the claims. Features shown or described in relation to one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other exemplary embodiments. Such modifications and variations are included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0051] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​listed. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the listed value and the functionally equivalent range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "approximately 40 mm."

[0052] All documents referenced herein, including any patents or patent applications that are cross-referenced or related, and any patent applications or patents for which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. No citation of any document shall be deemed prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, nor shall any such invention be taught, suggested, or disclosed, either alone or in combination with any one or more other 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 any document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document shall prevail.

[0053] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent 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. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A volatile composition dispenser (1), (a) A cartridge (30) comprising a reservoir of at least one liquid volatile composition (31) and a burstable substrate (33) for enclosing the reservoir, (b) A housing (10) defining an internal compartment in which the cartridge (30) is arranged, wherein a frame opening (201) is formed penetrating the housing (10) and defining an extending surface (202) to which the frame opening (201) extends, (c) An activation lever (20) positioned in a frame opening (201) and configured to be pivotable relative to the housing (10), comprising a hammer portion (210) and a handle portion (220), A volatile composition dispenser, wherein the activation lever (20) is configured to be pivotable between a first position in which the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) extends below the extending surface (202) of the frame opening (201) and into the internal compartment of the housing (10), and the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) extends above the extending surface (202) of the frame opening (201) and outward from the housing (10), and a second position in which the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) causes the burstable substrate (33) of the cartridge (30) to burst, thereby releasing the at least one liquid volatile composition (31) from the cartridge (30).

2. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to claim 1, wherein the activation lever (20) is configured to be pivotable from the second position to a third position in which the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) extends in a direction substantially parallel to the extending surface (202) of the frame opening (201).

3. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to claim 2, wherein the activation lever (20) is configured to be lockable in the third position.

4. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to claim 3, further comprising a first fastener (241) and a second fastener (242) located within the frame opening (201) and facing each other, wherein in the third position, the first fastener (241) interacts with the end of the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) to prevent the activation lever (20) from pivoting backward from the third position, and the second fastener (242) interacts with the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) to prevent the activation lever (20) from pivoting further from the third position, thereby locking the activation lever (20) in the third position.

5. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the activation lever (20) is connected to the housing (10) at the frame opening (201) by a hinge structure (230).

6. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to claim 5, wherein the hinge structure (230) is located inside the frame opening (201) and comprises a pivot shaft coupled to the housing (10).

7. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to claim 6, wherein the activation lever (20) further comprises a through hole into which the pivot shaft is fitted, and as a result the activation lever (20) can pivot around the pivot shaft and relative to the housing (10).

8. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to claim 6, wherein the housing (10) further comprises two blind holes in the frame opening (201) into which the pivot shafts are fitted, and the start lever (20) is fixed to the pivot shaft or integral with the pivot shaft so that the start lever (20) can pivot relative to the housing (10) by the pivot shaft.

9. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the activation lever (20) may be an integrally molded part.

10. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) has a length of 20% to 150%, 50% to 120%, or 70% to 100% of the length of the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20).

11. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the handle portion (220) and the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) form an angle of 90° to 180°, or 100° to 170°, or 120° to 160°, or 130° to 150°, or preferably 145°.

12. In the first position, the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) extends away from the extending surface (202) at an angle of 30° to 150°, or 45° to 135°, or 60° to 120°, or preferably 90°, the volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. In the first position, the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) extends away from the extending surface (202) at an angle of 10° to 80°, or 20° to 60°, or 30° to 40°, or preferably 35°, the volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. In the second position, the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) extends away from the extending surface (202) at an angle of 70° to 110°, or 80° to 100°, or 85° to 95°, or preferably 90°, the volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. In the third position, the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) extends away from the extending surface (202) at an angle of 45° to 70°, 50° to 65°, 55° to 60°, or preferably 60°, the volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

16. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the activation lever (20) is stabilized with respect to the housing (10) and held in the first position by a fixing element (243), and when the activation lever (20) pivots from the first position to the second position, the fixing element (243) is removed or destroyed to allow movement of the activation lever (20).

17. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to claim 16, wherein the fixing element (243) is broken by applying pressure to the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20), thereby allowing the activation lever (20) to pivot from the first position to the second position.

18. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the cartridge (30) further comprises a permeable membrane (39) for enclosing the reservoir and for evaporating the at least one liquid volatile composition (31) into the atmosphere.

19. The volatile composition dispenser (1) according to claim 18, further comprising a bursting mechanism (34) sandwiched between the burstable substrate (33) and the breathable membrane (39), wherein when the activation lever (20) pivots from the first position to the second position, the hammer portion (210) of the activation lever (20) exerts force on the bursting mechanism (34), causing the bursting mechanism (34) to move, thereby bursting the burstable substrate (33) in the cartridge (30) and releasing therefrom the at least one liquid volatile composition (31).

20. A method for delivering at least one liquid volatile composition into the atmosphere, (i) To provide a volatile composition dispenser (1) according to any one of the prior claims, (ii) A method comprising activating the volatile composition dispenser (1) by applying pressure to the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20).

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein activating the volatile composition dispenser (1) includes applying pressure to the handle portion (220) of the activation lever (20) to pivot the activation lever (20) from the first position to the second position.

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