Spray Cap

Abstract

To provide a mist-like liquid to stably eject (spray) even if a content liquid has a high viscosity.SOLUTION: A spray cap 1 includes a mounting cap 10 mounted on a mouth part 3 of a container body 2 having a storage space R1 for storing a content liquid and a nozzle member 30 having a nozzle hole 31 formed therein and combined with the mounting cap, the mounting cap includes a closing wall part 12 in which an air hole 15 and a flow hole 16 are formed and a head cylindrical part 20 in which an air passage 22 and a flow passage 21 are formed, the nozzle member is provided with a gas-liquid mixing part 32 that communicates with an inside of the nozzle hole and mixes the content liquid introduced through the flow passage with the air introduced through the air passage, an air introduction member 50 is provided on the inside of the mouth part of the container body to introduce the air that has stored inside into the air passage as an internal pressure of the storage space rises.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a spray cap. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, spray caps capable of spraying (spraying) the liquid content in a mist form have been known. For example, the following Patent Document 1 discloses a spray cap that is attached to the mouth of a squeezable container and includes a cap base having a pouring hole, a lower lid connected to the cap base via a hinge so as to be able to open and close the pouring hole and having a spray hole, and an upper lid attached to the lower lid and opening and closing the spray hole. The cap base is provided with a boss that protrudes toward the spray hole of the bottom cover, and the bottom cover is provided with a recess that fits with the boss and forms a spin chamber in a fitting space centered on the spray hole.

[0003] In the spray cap configured in this way, the liquid content can be made to flow into the spin chamber and swirl within the spin chamber by squeezing the container. This allows the spun liquid content to be sprayed through the spray hole. As a result, it becomes possible to spray the liquid content in the form of a mist toward the outside. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-69023 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the spray cap described in Patent Document 1 is configured to spin the liquid by swirling it in the spin chamber, and to spray the liquid in a mist using the swirling force of the liquid itself. Therefore, for example, in the case of a highly viscous liquid, it may be difficult to sufficiently spin the liquid, and the liquid may not be sprayed in a mist.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a spray cap that can stably spray (spray) a mist-like liquid even when the contents are highly viscous. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) A spray cap according to the present invention comprises an attachment cap attached to the mouth of a container body having a storage space for storing a liquid content, and a nozzle member formed with a nozzle hole for spraying the liquid content and combined with the attachment cap, wherein the attachment cap comprises a closing wall portion that closes the mouth of the container body and has an air hole and a circulation hole formed therein, and a head tube portion that protrudes upward from the closing wall portion and has an air passage communicating with the air hole and a circulation passage communicating with the inside of the container body through the circulation hole formed therein. The nozzle member is combined with the mounting cap by being attached to the head tube portion, and the nozzle member is provided with an air-liquid mixing portion that communicates with the nozzle hole and mixes the content liquid introduced from inside the container body through the flow passage with the air introduced through the air passage, and an air introduction member is provided on the inside of the mouth of the container body, which communicates with the air hole but does not communicate with the inside of the container body, and introduces air stored inside into the air passage through the air hole as the internal pressure of the storage space increases. The gas-liquid mixing section has a spin chamber that swirls the liquid introduced through the flow passage, and mixes the air introduced through the air passage with the liquid swirling in the spin chamber. It is characterized by:

[0008] According to the spray cap of the present invention, the internal pressure of the storage space can be increased by, for example, squeezing the container body. As a result, the content liquid stored in the storage space can be introduced into the flow passage through the circulation hole and guided to the gas-liquid mixing section. At the same time, air can be introduced into the air passage through the air hole by the air introduction member as the internal pressure of the storage space increases. As a result, air can be guided to the gas-liquid mixing section. Therefore, in the gas-liquid mixing section, the content liquid introduced through the flow passage and the air introduced through the air passage can be merged and mixed, and the content liquid mixed with the air can be sprayed to the outside through the nozzle hole. At this time, the content liquid mixed with the air can be sprayed by utilizing the force of the air introduced into the gas-liquid mixing section, so that it can be sprayed (sprayed) in a mist form. In particular, unlike conventional devices, the liquid content can be mixed with air and the liquid content can be forcefully sprayed out using the force of the air, so that even if the liquid content is highly viscous, it can be stably sprayed in a mist form. This makes it possible to provide a spray cap that is easy to use and highly convenient, and can be used with a wide variety of liquid contents. Furthermore, since the liquid can be swirled in the spin chamber, air can be mixed into the spun liquid, allowing the liquid to be ejected in a more stable mist form even when the liquid has a high viscosity.

[0009] (2) The air introduction member may have a storage space therein capable of storing air, and may be provided with an elastic deformation portion that is elastically deformable so as to expand and contract, and the elastic deformation portion may elastically deform so as to contract in response to an increase in internal pressure of the storage space, thereby introducing air within the storage space into the air passage through the air hole.

[0010] In this case, when the internal pressure of the storage space increases due to a squeeze deformation of the container body, etc., pressure can be applied to the elastically deforming portion due to the increased internal pressure. This allows the elastically deforming portion to be elastically deformed so as to contract. This allows the pressure in the storage space to be increased, and air can be forcefully introduced into the air passage. Therefore, even if the content liquid has a high viscosity, it can be stably sprayed in the form of a mist. After the liquid content is ejected, the elastic deformation part can be elastically restored by, for example, releasing the squeeze deformation of the container body. This creates a negative pressure in the storage space, and air can be drawn into the storage space from the outside as the elastic deformation part elastically restores its shape. This allows the container to quickly prepare for the next ejection of the liquid content.

[0011] (3) The air introduction member may include a cylinder having a storage space therein capable of storing air, a middle plate arranged inside the cylinder so as to be movable up and down, and a biasing member for biasing the middle plate downward, and the middle plate may move upward in response to an increase in internal pressure in the storage space, thereby introducing air within the storage space into the air passage through the air hole.

[0012] In this case, when the internal pressure of the storage space increases due to squeezing deformation of the container body, the increased internal pressure can apply pressure to the inner plate. This allows the inner plate to move upward in the cylinder against the bias of the biasing member. This allows the air in the storage space to be forcefully introduced into the air passage. Therefore, even if the content liquid has a high viscosity, it can be stably sprayed in the form of a mist. After the liquid content has been ejected, the inner plate can be lowered by the force of the biasing member, for example, by releasing the squeeze deformation of the container body. As a result, negative pressure can be created in the storage space as the inner plate descends, making it possible to draw air from the outside into the storage space. This allows the container to quickly prepare for the next ejection of the liquid content.

[0015] ( 4 ) The nozzle member may be attached to the head tube portion so as to be rotatable about the axis of the head tube portion, and the gas-liquid mixing portion may be switchable between an ejection-enabled state in which communication with the flow passage is permitted and an ejection-restricted state in which communication with the flow passage is blocked, by rotation of the nozzle member relative to the head tube portion.

[0016] In this case, the nozzle member can be easily rotated relative to the head tube portion to switch between the ejection-enabled state and the ejection-restricted state, making it easy to use and preventing unintended ejection of the liquid contents. Effect of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention, a spray cap can be provided that can stably eject (spray) a mist of liquid even if the liquid content has a high viscosity. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a first embodiment of a spray cap according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a state in which the content liquid and air are being introduced into a gas-liquid mixing section from the state shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a second embodiment of a spray cap according to the present invention. [Figure 4] 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a state in which the content liquid and air are being introduced into a gas-liquid mixing section from the state shown in FIG. 3. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] (First embodiment) A first embodiment of a spray cap according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Figure 1, the spray cap 1 of this embodiment comprises a topped cylindrical attachment cap 10 attached to the mouth 3 of a bottomed cylindrical container body 2 having a storage space R1 in which the content liquid is stored, a topped cylindrical nozzle member 30 combined with the attachment cap 10 and having a nozzle hole 31 for spraying the content liquid, and a lid cap 40 connected to the attachment cap 10 via a hinge portion 41 and covering the attachment cap 10 and the nozzle member 30. The mounting cap 10 and the lid cap 40 are integrally formed by, for example, injection molding.

[0020] The liquid content contained in the container body 2 is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, liquid food or liquid cosmetics. In particular, in this embodiment, a highly viscous liquid content, such as edible oil, can be suitably used.

[0021] 1, the central axes of the container body 2, the attachment cap 10, and the lid cap 40 are arranged on a common axis. Hereinafter, this common axis is referred to as the cap axis O1, and the lid cap 40 side along the cap axis O1 is referred to as the upper side, and the container body 2 side on the opposite side is referred to as the lower side. Furthermore, in a plan view seen from the cap axis O1 direction, a direction intersecting the cap axis O1 is referred to as the radial direction, and a direction going around the cap axis O1 is referred to as the circumferential direction. Furthermore, one of the radial directions that are perpendicular to each other is referred to as a front-rear direction L1, and in the front-rear direction L1, the side of the hinge portion 41 is referred to as the rear, and the opposite side is referred to as the front.

[0022] (Container body) The container body 2 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape with a mouth 3, a shoulder 4, a body (not shown), and a bottom (not shown) arranged in sequence from the top. The container body 2 is capable of being deformed by squeezing. Therefore, at least the body of the container body 2 is capable of being elastically deformed inward in the radial direction (toward the inside of the container).

[0023] The mouth 3 of the container body 2 is formed to extend upward from the upper end opening of the shoulder portion 4. In the illustrated example, the mouth 3 of the container body 2 includes a first mouth 3a connected to the shoulder portion 4 and a second mouth 3b disposed above the first mouth 3a. A first screw portion 5 (e.g., a male screw portion) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first mouth portion 3a for mounting the mounting cap 10. However, this is not limited to the case where the first screw portion 5 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first mouth portion 3a, and for example, instead of the first screw portion 5, a first engagement protrusion protruding radially outward may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first mouth portion 3a.

[0024] The second mouth portion 3b is formed so as to extend radially inward from the upper end portion of the first mouth portion 3a toward the upper side, and then extend upward. As a result, the second mouth portion 3b has a smaller diameter than the first mouth portion 3a. However, the shape of the second mouth portion 3b is not limited to this case.

[0025] (Attachment cap) The attachment cap 10 surrounds the mouth 3 of the container body 2 from the radially outside and is formed into a topped cylinder having an attachment tube 11 attached to the mouth 3 of the container body 2 and a blocking wall portion 12 connected to the upper end of the attachment tube 11 and blocking the mouth 3 of the container body 2 from above.

[0026] A second screw portion 13 (e.g., a female screw portion) that screws into the first screw portion 5 formed in the first mouth portion 3a of the container body 2 is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the attachment tube 11. As a result, the attachment cap 10 is attached to the mouth portion 3 of the container body 2 by screwing into the first mouth portion 3a. However, the method of attaching the attachment cap 10 to the mouth 3 of the container body 2 is not limited to screwing (screw connection between the first screw portion 5 and the second screw portion 13). For example, as described above, when a first engagement protrusion is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the first mouth 3a, a second engagement protrusion may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the attachment tube 11, protruding radially inward and engaging with the first engagement protrusion by undercut, thereby allowing the attachment cap 10 to be attached by engagement.

[0027] A protrusion 14 that protrudes radially inward is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the upper end of the mounting tube 11. The protrusion 14 is formed, for example, in a ring shape extending around the entire circumference of the mounting tube 11. However, the protrusion 14 does not have to be formed in a ring shape, and multiple protrusions may be formed at intervals in the circumferential direction. The protrusion 14 is formed at a height position equivalent to the upper end opening edge of the second mouth portion 3b in the container body 2.

[0028] The blocking wall portion 12 has an outer peripheral edge portion connected over the entire circumference to the edge of the upper end opening of the mounting tube 11. The blocking wall portion 12 is formed with an air hole 15 and a communication hole 16 that penetrate the blocking wall portion 12 in the vertical direction. The air hole 15 is formed in the blocking wall 12 at a position shifted rearward with respect to the cap axis O1, and is formed, for example, in a circular shape in plan view. The circulation hole 16 is formed in the blocking wall 12 at a position shifted further rearward than the air hole 15, in a portion located inside the mouth 3 of the container body 2, and is formed, for example, in a circular shape in plan view. In the illustrated example, the circulation hole 16 is formed to have a smaller opening size than the air hole 15.

[0029] An engagement protrusion 17 protruding radially outward is formed on the outer circumferential edge of the blocking wall portion 12. The engagement protrusion 17 serves to fit the lid cap 40 when the lid cap 40 transitions to the closed state. The engagement protrusion 17 may be formed in an annular shape, or multiple engagement protrusions 17 may be formed at intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0030] Furthermore, the closing wall portion 12 is integrally formed with a head tube portion 20 that protrudes upward. A flow passage 21 through which the liquid content flows and an air passage 22 through which air flows are formed in a partitioned state inside the head tube portion 20. Specifically, the head tube portion 20 is formed in a double tube shape in which the flow passage 21 surrounds the periphery of the air passage 22.

[0031] Explain in detail. The head tube portion 20 is formed so as to protrude upward from a portion of the closing wall portion 12 located rearward of the cap axis O1, and then extend forward as it goes further upward. As a result, the head tube portion 20 is formed so as to extend obliquely upward toward the front as a whole. The central axis of the head tube portion 20 extending obliquely upward is referred to as a head axis O2. Further, when viewed from the head axis O2 direction, a direction intersecting the head axis O2 is referred to as a head radial direction, and a direction going around the head axis O2 is referred to as a head circumferential direction.

[0032] The head cylinder portion 20 is formed in a double cylinder shape with a first head cylinder portion 23 located on the inside and a second head cylinder portion 24 on the outside that surrounds the periphery of the first head cylinder portion 23. Both the first head cylinder portion 23 and the second head cylinder portion 24 open obliquely upward. The inside of the first head cylinder portion 23 is an air passage 22 that communicates with the air hole 15. Furthermore, the inside of the second head cylinder portion 24 (specifically, the space between the first head cylinder portion 23 and the second head cylinder portion 24) is a circulation passage 21 that communicates with the circulation hole 16. The circulation passage 21 communicates with the inside of the container body 2 through the circulation hole 16. In this manner, the inside of the first head cylinder portion 23 is the air passage 22, and the inside of the second head cylinder portion 24 is the circulation passage 21, so that the air passage 22 and the circulation passage 21 are separated from each other.

[0033] Furthermore, a first switching groove 25 that extends linearly along the head axis O2 and opens obliquely upward is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the tip end side of the first head cylinder portion 23. In the illustrated example, two first switching grooves 25 are formed at equal intervals in the head circumferential direction. However, the number of first switching grooves 25 is not limited to two, and for example, one or three or more may be formed.

[0034] (Lid cap) The lid cap 40 is formed in a cylindrical shape with a top having a cap peripheral wall 42 and a cap top wall 43, and covers the blocking wall portion 12 of the attachment cap 10 main body and the nozzle member 30 described later from above, and can be opened and closed by rotating around the hinge portion 41. Therefore, the lid cap 40 rotates about the hinge portion 41 to be displaced between a closed state in which it is attached to the attachment cap 10 and an open state in which it is detached from the attachment cap 10 (see FIG. 2).

[0035] When the lid cap 40 is in the closed state, the cap peripheral wall 42 is placed on the upper open end of the mounting tube 11 and the lower end side is undercut and fitted into the engagement protrusion 17. This keeps the lid cap 40 in the closed state and prevents it from being opened at an unintended timing.

[0036] The hinge portion 41 integrally connects the lower end of the cap peripheral wall 42 and the upper end of the mounting tube 11. In this case, the hinge portion 41 is formed so that its circumferential position is the same with respect to the flow hole 16. This makes it possible to open and close the lid cap 40 in the radially opposite direction (rearward) from the nozzle member 30 across the cap axis O1 (see FIG. 2).

[0037] A knob 44 protruding radially outward is formed on a portion (front portion) of the cap peripheral wall 42 that is located on the opposite side of the hinge portion 41 across the cap axis O1. Therefore, by using the knob 44, it becomes easier to open and close the lid cap 40 around the hinge portion 41.

[0038] (Nozzle member) The nozzle member 30 is attached to the head cylinder portion 20 and is combined with the attachment cap 10 . The nozzle member 30 is provided with an air-liquid mixing section 32 which communicates with the nozzle hole 31 and mixes the content liquid introduced from the container body 2 through the flow passage 21 with air introduced through the air passage 22.

[0039] The nozzle member 30 will now be described in detail. The nozzle member 30 is integrally assembled to the tip end of the head tube portion 20 from diagonally above, and closes the openings of the first head tube portion 23 and the second head tube portion 24. In this embodiment, the nozzle member 30 is attached to the head tube portion 20 so as to be rotatable around the head axis O2.

[0040] The nozzle member 30 is arranged opposite the tip opening edges of the first head tube portion 23 and the second head tube portion 24, and is formed in a cylindrical shape with a top having a nozzle wall portion 33 in which a nozzle hole 31 is formed, a first nozzle tube portion 34 extending from the nozzle wall portion 33 toward the head tube portion 20 along the head axis O2 and attached to the first head tube portion 23, and a second nozzle tube portion 35 extending from the nozzle wall portion 33 toward the head tube portion 20 along the head axis O2 and attached to the second head tube portion 24.

[0041] The nozzle wall 33 is formed with a nozzle portion 33a extending along the head axis O2 toward the side opposite to the head tube portion 20. That is, the nozzle portion 33a extends from the nozzle wall 33 obliquely upward, which is the ejection direction of the content liquid. In the illustrated example, the nozzle portion 33a is formed in a cylindrical shape with an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first nozzle tube portion 34 and an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the second nozzle tube portion 35. Note that the nozzle portion 33a is not essential and may not be provided.

[0042] The first nozzle cylinder portion 34 is fitted to the outside of the first head cylinder portion 23 so as to be rotatable around the head axis O2. At this time, the inner peripheral surface of the first nozzle cylinder portion 34 is in close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first head cylinder portion 23. The first nozzle cylinder portion 34 is formed so as to extend beyond the first switching groove 25 formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first head cylinder portion 23. The second nozzle cylinder portion 35 is attached by being fitted externally to the second head cylinder portion 24 so as to be rotatable about the head axis O2 in a state in which it is prevented from coming off at an obliquely upward position relative to the second head cylinder portion 24.

[0043] Furthermore, the nozzle member 30 is located between the first nozzle tube portion 34 and the second head tube portion 24, and further includes a support tube portion 36 that extends from the nozzle wall portion 33 toward the head tube portion 20 along the head axis O2 direction and fits inside the second head tube portion 24 so as to be rotatable around the head axis O2. The support tube portion 36 fits inside the second head tube portion 24, thereby sandwiching the second head tube portion 24 between itself and the second nozzle tube portion 35 in the head radial direction. This allows the second nozzle tube portion 35 to be fitted to the second head tube portion 24 in a more stable state. Therefore, the support tube portion 36 supports the fitting of the second nozzle tube portion 35, and contributes to improving the stable mounting performance of the nozzle member 30 to the head tube portion 20. Note that the support tube portion 36 is not essential and may not be provided.

[0044] A second switching groove 37 that extends linearly along the head axis O2 and opens rearward is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the first nozzle cylinder portion 34. In the illustrated example, two second switching grooves 37 are formed at equal intervals in the head circumferential direction, and are formed to communicate with the first switching groove 25 when the nozzle member 30 is positioned at a communication position described below. The number of second switching grooves 37 is not limited to two, but may be, for example, one or three or more. It is preferable to arrange them in accordance with the number of first switching grooves 25.

[0045] The nozzle hole 31 is formed in the nozzle wall portion 33 while being arranged coaxially with the head axis O2. The gas-liquid mixing portion 32 is formed in a portion of the rear surface of the nozzle wall portion 33 that is located inside the first nozzle cylinder portion 34. As a result, the gas-liquid mixing portion 32 is communicated with the inside of the first head cylinder portion 23, i.e., with the air passage 22. Therefore, it is possible to introduce air into the gas-liquid mixing portion 32 through the air passage 22. Furthermore, the gas-liquid mixing section 32 is connected to the flow passage 21 through a spin groove 39, a first switching groove 25, and a second switching groove 37, which will be described later. Therefore, the content liquid introduced into the flow passage 21 can be introduced into the gas-liquid mixing section 32 through the second switching groove 37, the first switching groove 25, and the spin groove 39.

[0046] Furthermore, the gas-liquid mixer 32 of this embodiment has a concave spin chamber 38 that swirls the content liquid introduced through the flow passage 21. The spin chamber 38 is formed to be recessed in the rear surface of the nozzle wall portion 33, and is formed, for example, in a circular shape when viewed from the head axis O2 direction.

[0047] Furthermore, a spin groove 39 is formed on the rear surface of the nozzle wall portion 33 to send the content liquid into the spin chamber 38. The spin groove 39 is formed to extend, for example, in the tangential direction of the inner circumferential wall of the spin chamber 38, and sends the content liquid from the above-mentioned first switch groove 25 into the spin chamber 38. This makes it possible to apply a spin to the content liquid so as to rotate it in the circumferential direction within the spin chamber 38. Therefore, the gas-liquid mixing section 32 can mix the air introduced through the air passage 22 with the content liquid swirling in the spin chamber 38, and can guide the content liquid that has been mixed with the air and spun to the nozzle hole 31.

[0048] In the illustrated example, two spin grooves 39 are formed at an interval in the head circumferential direction. In this case, the inlet of the spin groove 39 located on the inner circumferential surface side of the first nozzle cylinder portion 34 and the second switching groove 37 formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first nozzle cylinder portion 34 are formed so as to be in the same position in the head circumferential direction when viewed from the head axis O2 direction.

[0049] Therefore, by rotating the nozzle member 30 around the head axis O2 relative to the head tube portion 20 and matching the circumferential position of the second switching groove 37 formed on the inner surface of the first nozzle tube portion 34 with the circumferential position of the first switching groove 25 formed on the outer surface of the first head tube portion 23, it is possible to connect the spin groove 39 to the flow passage 21 via the first switching groove 25 and the second switching groove 37. In other words, the spin chamber 38 in the gas-liquid mixing section 32 can be connected to the flow passage 21 through the spin groove 39, the first switching groove 25, and the second switching groove 37, making it possible to introduce the content liquid into the spin chamber 38.

[0050] In this manner, in this embodiment, by rotating the nozzle member 30 about the head axis O2, it is possible to switch between communication and blocking between the inside of the spin chamber 38 and the inside of the flow passage 21 through the spin groove 39, the first switching groove 25, and the second switching groove 37. Therefore, only when the nozzle member 30 is rotated about the head axis O2 and positioned at a predetermined rotational position, the gas-liquid mixing section 32 (inside the spin chamber 38) and the inside of the flow passage 21 can be brought into communication with each other, and a non-communicating state can be achieved at other rotational positions. The rotational position of the nozzle member 30 at which the gas-liquid mixing section 32 communicates with the inside of the flow passage 21 is referred to as a communication position, and the rotational position at which the communication between the gas-liquid mixing section 32 and the inside of the flow passage 21 is blocked is referred to as a blocking position. Therefore, the nozzle member 30 is rotatable around the head axis O2 between the communication position and the blocking position.

[0051] The nozzle hole 31 is in an ejection-enabled state in which the content liquid can be ejected when the nozzle member 30 is positioned in the communication position, and in an ejection-restricted state in which the ejection of the content liquid is restricted when the nozzle member 30 is positioned in the blocking position. Therefore, the gas-liquid mixing section 32 can be switched between an ejection-enabled state in which a communication path with the flow passage 21 is permitted, and an ejection-restricted state in which communication with the flow passage 21 is blocked, by rotating the nozzle member 30 relative to the head tube portion 20.

[0052] The first switching groove 25 and the second switching groove 37 form a switching passage 45 that switches between communication and cut-off between the gas-liquid mixing section 32 and the flow passage 21 as the nozzle member 30 rotates relative to the head tube portion 20.

[0053] (Air intake member) The spray cap 1 of this embodiment includes an air introduction member 50 provided inside the mouth portion 3 of the container body 2. The air introduction member 50 is connected to the air hole 15 but is not connected to the inside of the container body 2, and is capable of introducing air stored inside into the air passage 22 through the air hole 15.

[0054] The air introduction member 50 includes a sheet body 51 arranged on the upper opening edge of the mouth part 3 of the container body 2, and an elastically deformable part 52 formed integrally with the sheet body 51 and formed to bulge downward. The air introduction member 50 is formed of an elastically deformable soft material such as elastomer or rubber.

[0055] The sheet body 51 is arranged on the upper opening edge of the mouth part 3 of the container body 2, and is sandwiched vertically between the mouth part 3 of the container body 2 and the closing wall part 12 of the attachment cap 10. This ensures a certain level of sealing between the mouth part 3 of the container body 2 and the sheet body 51. The outer peripheral edge of the sheet body 51 engages from above with a protrusion 14 formed on the inner peripheral surface of the mounting tube 11. Therefore, the air introduction member 50 can be combined with the mounting cap 10 integrally even before the mounting cap 10 is attached to the mouth 3 of the container body 2.

[0056] Air openings 53 and communication openings 54 are formed in the sheet body 51 so as to correspond to the air holes 15 and the communication holes 16. In the illustrated example, the air openings 53 are formed to have a larger opening size than the air holes 15, and the communication openings 54 are formed to have an opening size equivalent to that of the communication holes 16.

[0057] The elastically deformable portion 52 is connected to the peripheral portion of the air opening 53 of the sheet body 51, and is formed to bulge significantly downward. The elastically deformable portion 52 has a storage space R2 therein capable of storing air, and is elastically deformable so as to expand and contract. Therefore, the storage space R2 is not connected to the inside of the container body 2, and is connected only to the inside of the air passage 22 through the air hole 15.

[0058] The elastic deformation portion 52 configured as described above elastically deforms so as to contract (shrink) as the internal pressure of the storage space R1 in the container body 2 increases, thereby making it possible to introduce air in the storage space R2 into the air passage 22 through the air hole 15.

[0059] (Spray cap action) The operation of the spray cap 1 configured as above will be described below, assuming that the nozzle member 30 is positioned at the communication position.

[0060] When ejecting the liquid content, the lid cap 40 is opened around the hinge portion 41 by using the tab 44 or the like, as shown in Fig. 2, to transition from a closed state to an open state. Next, the container body 2 is squeezed while tilting the container body 2 forward, for example. This increases the internal pressure of the storage space R1 in the container body 2, and the liquid content in the storage space R1 can be introduced into the flow passage 21 through the flow hole 16, as shown by the arrow F1 in Fig. 2. At this time, since the nozzle member 30 is positioned at the communication position, the liquid content introduced into the flow passage 21 can be introduced into the spin chamber 38 of the gas-liquid mixing section 32 through the second switching groove 37, the first switching groove 25, and the spin groove 39.

[0061] Furthermore, at the same time as the content liquid is introduced into the flow passage 21, the air introduction portion introduces air into the air passage 22 through the air hole 15 due to an increase in the internal pressure of the storage space R1. Specifically, pressure can be applied to the elastic deformation portion 52 by increasing the internal pressure of the storage space R1. This allows the elastic deformation portion 52 to be elastically deformed so as to contract, as shown by the arrow F2 in Fig. 2. This allows the pressure in the storage space R2 to be increased, and air can be forcefully introduced into the air passage 22, as shown by the arrow F3 in Fig. 2. This allows air to be guided through the air passage 22 to the spin chamber 38 of the gas-liquid mixer 32.

[0062] Therefore, in the gas-liquid mixing section 32, the content liquid introduced through the flow passage 21 and the air introduced through the air passage 22 can be vigorously joined and mixed, and the content liquid mixed with the air can be ejected to the outside through the nozzle hole 31. At this time, the content liquid mixed with the air can be ejected by utilizing the force of the air introduced into the gas-liquid mixing section 32, so that it can be ejected (sprayed) in a mist form.

[0063] In particular, unlike conventional methods, the content liquid can be mixed with air and the force of the air can be used to forcefully eject the content liquid, so that even if the content liquid is highly viscous, it can be stably ejected in a mist form.

[0064] As described above, according to this embodiment, a wide variety of content liquids can be widely applied, and the spray cap 1 can be made easy to use and highly convenient. In particular, since the gas-liquid mixer 32 is provided with the spin chamber 38, the liquid content can be sufficiently swirled within the spin chamber 38, and air can be mixed with the spun liquid content. Therefore, even if the liquid content has a high viscosity, it can be stably sprayed in a mist form.

[0065] After the liquid content is ejected, the increase in the internal pressure in the storage space R1 can be released by, for example, releasing the squeeze deformation of the container body 2, thereby causing the elastic deformation portion 52 to elastically restore to its original shape. This allows the pressure in the storage space R2 to be negative, and air can be drawn into the storage space R2 from the outside as the elastic deformation portion 52 elastically restores to its original shape. This allows the container to be quickly prepared for the next ejection of the liquid content.

[0066] Furthermore, after the content liquid has been sprayed, when storing the container body 2 to which the spray cap 1 is attached, or when distributing the product, the nozzle member 30 is rotated around the head axis O2 relative to the head tube portion 20 to be positioned in the blocking position. This makes it possible to block communication between the first switching groove 25 and the second switching groove 37, thereby blocking communication between the spin chamber 38 in the gas-liquid mixing section 32 and the flow passage 21. This makes it possible to transition to an ejection restricted state in which ejection of the content liquid through the nozzle hole 31 is restricted. This makes it possible to store or distribute the container body 2 to which the spray cap 1 is attached in a state in which unintended ejection of the content liquid and leakage of liquid from the nozzle hole 31 are suppressed. Furthermore, by simply rotating the nozzle member 30 relative to the head tube portion 20, the ejection enabled state and the ejection restricted state can be quickly switched over, providing excellent operability.

[0067] Second embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the spray cap according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted. In the first embodiment, the air introduction member 50 introduces air by utilizing the elastic deformation portion 52, but in this embodiment, the air introduction member introduces air by utilizing the inner plate.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 3, a spray cap 60 of this embodiment includes an air introduction member 61 including a cylinder 62, an inner plate 63, and a coil spring 64 (biasing member). The cylinder 62 is disposed coaxially with the cap axis O1 inside the mouth portion 3 of the container body 2, and an upper end portion is integrally formed with the sheet body 51. The sheet body 51 and the cylinder 62 are integrally molded products, and are formed of, for example, a synthetic resin material.

[0069] The cylinder 62 extends downward from the sheet body 51 and is formed into a cylindrical shape that opens downward. In the illustrated example, the length of the cylinder 62 along the cap axis O1 is equal to the length of the mouth portion 3 of the container body 2. Furthermore, the cylinder 62 is formed, for example, into a circular shape in cross section and is formed so as to extend straight in the vertical direction over its entire length. However, the shape of the cylinder 62 is not particularly limited, and may be formed, for example, into an elliptical or polygonal shape in cross section. The cylinder 62 has a lower end formed with an annular retaining flange 62a that protrudes radially inward.

[0070] The interior of the cylinder 62 thus constructed serves as a storage space R2 capable of storing air. Furthermore, an inner plate 63 is arranged inside the cylinder 62 so as to be movable up and down. As a result, the lower end opening of the cylinder 62 is closed by the inner plate 63. Therefore, the storage space R2 is not connected to the inside of the container body 2, and is connected only to the inside of the air passage 22 through the air hole 15.

[0071] The middle plate 63 comprises a partition wall 65 having a circular shape in a plan view that divides the inside of the cylinder 62 into upper and lower sections, and a sliding tube 66 that is connected to the outer peripheral edge of the partition wall 65 and slidably fitted into the cylinder 62, and is arranged coaxially with the cap axis O1. The sliding tube 66 is formed in a tapered shape that gradually expands in diameter from the vertical center toward the top and bottom, and is provided with lip portions 66a located at both vertical ends. The lip portions 66a are in close sliding contact with the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder tube 62 while maintaining an appropriate frictional force. As a result, the sliding tube 66 is fitted to the cylinder tube 62 so as to be vertically slidable, while a predetermined seal is ensured between the lip portions 66a and the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder tube 62.

[0072] The inner plate 63 configured as described above moves upward in the cylinder 62 in accordance with an increase in the internal pressure of the storage space R1 in the container body 2. This allows the air in the storage space R2 to be pushed out and introduced into the air passage 22 through the air hole 15.

[0073] The coil spring 64 is disposed in the cylinder 62 in a state where it is sandwiched between the partition wall 65 and the blocking wall portion 12. The material of the coil spring 64 is not particularly limited, and it may be made of, for example, metal or synthetic resin. Furthermore, instead of the coil spring 64, a biasable member such as a leaf spring may be used. The coil spring 64 serves to bias the inner plate 63 downward when the inner plate 63 moves upward relative to the cylinder 62. The coil spring 64 may be arranged in a compressed state beforehand, or may be arranged in a state of natural length. The inner plate 63 is positioned at its lowest position by the sliding cylinder 66 coming into contact with the retaining flange 62a from above.

[0074] (Spray cap action) The spray cap 60 of this embodiment configured as described above can achieve the same effects as those of the first embodiment. That is, as shown in Fig. 4, the internal pressure of the storage space R1 increases due to the squeeze deformation of the container body 2, etc., and the content liquid can be introduced into the flow passage 21 as shown by the arrow F1 in Fig. 4. Furthermore, the internal pressure increase in the storage space R1 can apply stress to the inner plate 63, so that the inner plate 63 can be moved upward in the cylinder 62 against the bias of the coil spring 64. This allows the air in the storage space R2 to be forcefully introduced into the air passage 22 through the air hole 15 as shown by the arrow F3 in Fig. 4. Therefore, as in the first embodiment, even if the content liquid has a high viscosity, the content liquid can be stably ejected (sprayed) in a mist form.

[0075] After the liquid content has been ejected, the increased internal pressure in the storage space R1 can be released by, for example, releasing the squeeze deformation of the container body 2, thereby allowing the inner plate 63 to be lowered by the force of the coil spring 64. As a result, as the inner plate 63 descends, the pressure in the storage space R2 can be made negative, and air can be drawn into the storage space R2 from the outside. This allows the liquid content to be quickly prepared for the next ejection.

[0076] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. The embodiments and their modifications include, for example, those that can be easily imagined by a person skilled in the art, those that are substantially the same, those that are within the scope of the equivalents, and the like.

[0077] For example, in each of the above embodiments, the container body may be, for example, a peelable laminated container in which the inner container is peelably laminated to the inner surface of the outer container, or a double container in which a gap is secured between the inner container and the outer container.

[0078] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the nozzle member is attached to the head tube portion so as to be rotatable around the head axis, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the nozzle member may be attached so as not to be rotatable. However, since it is possible to switch between an ejection enabled state and an ejection restricted state, it is preferable to attach the nozzle member rotatably as in the above embodiments.

[0079] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, for example, a mesh member may be incorporated inside the nozzle portion 33a of the nozzle member 30, so that the content liquid sprayed in a mist form is sprayed in a foam form by passing through the mesh member. In this way, by using a mesh member, the contents that are sprayed in a mist form can be sprayed in a foam form, allowing the contents to be sprayed in a variety of forms, thereby improving convenience. [Explanation of symbols]

[0080] R1…Containment space R2: Storage space 1, 60…Spray cap 2…Container body 3…Mouth of container body 10…Attachment cap 12...Closing wall part 15…Air vent 16…Flow hole 20…Head cylinder part 21…Distribution path 22...Air passage 30...Nozzle member 31…Nozzle hole 32…Gas-liquid mixing section 38…Spin room 50, 61...Air introduction member 52...Elastically deformable portion 62...Cylinder 63...Medium plate 64... Coil spring (biasing member)

Claims

1. a mounting cap attached to a mouth of a container body having a storage space for storing the liquid content; a nozzle member having a nozzle hole for ejecting the liquid content and being combined with the mounting cap; The mounting cap is a closing wall portion that closes the mouth of the container body and has an air hole and a communication hole formed therein; a head tube portion that protrudes upward from the closing wall portion and has an air passage communicating with the air hole and a circulation passage communicating with the inside of the container body through the circulation hole formed therein, the nozzle member is attached to the head tube portion and combined with the mounting cap; the nozzle member is provided with an air-liquid mixing section that communicates with the nozzle hole and mixes the content liquid introduced from the container body through the flow passage with air introduced through the air passage, an air introduction member is provided on the inside of the mouth of the container body, the air introduction member communicating with the air hole but not communicating with the inside of the container body, and introducing air stored inside into the air passage through the air hole as the internal pressure of the storage space increases; The gas-liquid mixing section has a spin chamber that swirls the liquid content introduced through the flow passage, and mixes air introduced through the air passage with the liquid content swirling in the spin chamber.

2. 2. The spray cap of claim 1, The air introduction member has an elastic deformation portion having an internal storage space capable of storing air and being elastically deformable so as to expand and contract, The elastic deformation portion elastically deforms to contract as the internal pressure of the storage space increases, thereby introducing air within the storage space into the air passage through the air hole.

3. 2. The spray cap of claim 1, The air introduction member is A cylinder having an internal storage space capable of storing air; An inner plate disposed inside the cylinder so as to be movable up and down; A biasing member that biases the inner plate downward, The inner plate moves upward as the internal pressure of the storage space increases, thereby introducing air within the storage space into the air passage through the air hole.

4. A spray cap according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the nozzle member is attached to the head tube portion so as to be rotatable about an axis of the head tube portion, A spray cap, wherein the gas-liquid mixing section can be switched between a spray-enabled state in which communication with the flow passage is permitted and a spray-restricted state in which communication with the flow passage is blocked by rotating the nozzle member relative to the head tube section.

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