Volatile composition dispenser with visual indicator

Abstract

A volatile composition dispenser including a solid component having a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface. The solid component is capable of shrinking from an initial size to a reduced size less than the initial size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface when the solid component is exposed to an ambient environment within the interior space. The solid component is characterized by a shrinkage away from the peripheral evaporation surface of greater than 1% and less than 40%. A visual indicator is located proximate the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component. The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually perceptible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually perceptible when at least a portion of the solid component shrinks from the initial size to a reduced size to indicate a use status of the dispenser.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser for supplying volatile compositions, and more particularly to an air freshener having a visual indicator for providing a sign of product life. [Background technology]

[0002] It is well known that various devices are used to diffuse volatile compounds such as fragrances, disinfectants, insecticides, air purifying compositions, and deodorizers. For example, consumers purchase air purifiers to freshen their homes. Conventional air purifiers release the cooling composition into the surroundings over a period of time until the composition is depleted. However, such air purifiers rarely provide consumers with adequate visual indications that replacement is needed before or after the cooling composition is depleted. Therefore, consumers need a visual signal that makes it easier to know when the cooling composition in the air purifier is almost used up and when it is time to replace it.

[0003] A gel-type air freshener device that provides a visual signal is described in International Publication No. 03 / 008000(A1) (Givaudan SA). International Publication No. 03 / 008000(A1) describes a gel-type air freshener device that uses the contraction of a gel base to move segments of the device, thereby providing a visual signal about when the gel base is depleted. However, the manufacturing is complex, and the segments may need to be properly aligned and assembled so that the device can realize its function of providing a visual signal.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 10,918,756(B2) describes a solid, non-aqueous gel-type airborne odorant having a combination of components that provides a stable supply of active fragrance, deodorizer, or insecticide active ingredients over a long period of time (at least 30 days, preferably at least 50 days), and that transitions from opaque to transparent as the active ingredients dissipate. However, without user instructions, it may not be intuitive for the user to associate the transparency of the gel with the absence of any or very little active ingredients remaining in the odorant. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 03 / 008000(A1) [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 10,918,756(B2) [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Despite the above, there is still a need for intuitive and user-friendly volatile composition dispensers that guide users in determining when replacement is needed, either before or after the dispenser runs out. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser, and this dispenser is A solid component comprising a volatile composition and a surrounding evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the surrounding environment within its internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size relative to the surrounding evaporation surface, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the surrounding evaporation surface. A visual indicator located near the evaporation surface surrounding the solid component, The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when at least a portion of the solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size in order to indicate the usage state of the dispenser. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a front view of a volatile composition dispenser having an initial size solid component and a visual indicator, in a first configuration according to the present invention in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser in a second configuration in which the visual indicator is visually recognizable. [Figure 3A] This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space, according to the present invention. [Figure 3B] This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space, according to the present invention. [Figure 3C] This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space, according to the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a front perspective view of a solid component having at least one textured surface for a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a front perspective view of a solid component without a substantially textured surface for a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser having an initial-size solid component and a visual indicator, in a first configuration according to the present invention in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable. [Figure 7]Figure 6 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser in a second configuration in which the visual indicator is visually recognizable. [Figure 8] Figure 6 is a side view of the components inside the volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 9] This is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser having a component holder and a solid component according to the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a component holder for a volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a front perspective view of the parts holder shown in Figure 10, which includes solid parts, according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] In consumer products, end-of-life indicators play a crucial role in enabling consumers / users to decide when to make a new purchase or replenish the product. For users of volatile substance dispensers that exert effects in internal spaces, assessing whether the volatile composition has been depleted can be particularly difficult. Especially in the case of scented volatile compositions, the absence of scent can be considered an indicator that the fragrance has been used up. However, for unscented volatile compositions that provide effects without scent (scentless effects), such as odor removal, deodorization, insect repellent, and antibacterial effects, physical depletion of the composition is often the only way to indicate the end of product use.

[0010] The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser having a visual product life sign, and a method of providing a visual product life sign to a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition to an internal space. Specifically, the volatile composition dispenser includes a solid component that includes a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface. When the solid component is exposed to the ambient environment, the solid component can shrink from an initial size to a reduced size that is smaller than the initial size due to the vaporization of the volatile composition into the air in the internal space. The shrinkage in a direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component is more than 1% and less than 40%. The visual indicator is located proximal to the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component. The visual indicator is fixed, and its appearance and / or position do not change during the product life of the dispenser. Surprisingly, in order to provide a visual cue of the usage state of the dispenser, a dispenser having a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visible and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visible when the solid component shrinks from the initial size to the reduced size has been found to be able to incorporate a visual product life indicator into the design of the volatile composition dispenser.

[0011] In the following description, the dispenser described is a consumer product such as an air freshener for evaporating a volatile composition in a space, such as a room in a home and a commercial establishment, or a passenger compartment of a vehicle, in order to provide various effects such as air cooling, odor removal, or fragrance in the space. However, the dispenser may be configured to be used in various applications for supplying a volatile composition into the air, and the dispenser may include, for example, but is not limited to, consumer products such as air cooling products.

[0012] Prior to explaining the present invention in detail, the following terms are defined for clarity of the explanation. Terms that are not defined should be given the ordinary meaning understood by those skilled in the relevant technical field.

[0013] As used herein, "horizontal direction" refers to the position of the dispenser of the volatile composition according to the present invention, where the central evaporation surface is facing upward or downward and is in a position facing the surrounding environment.

[0014] As used herein, “solid component” refers to a chemically crosslinked gel composition that is molded into the form of a three-dimensional object having width, length, and thickness along the x, y, and z axes, respectively. The solid component is self-supporting and comprises at least two evaporation surfaces.

[0015] As used herein, “visual indicator” refers to any element that indicates a stage in the product life cycle of a volatile composition dispenser or the state of use of a volatile composition dispenser.

[0016] As used herein, “visually recognizable” means the ability to look at a visual indicator and to notice the information represented by the visual indicator.

[0017] As used herein, “vertical direction” refers to the position of the dispenser of the volatile composition according to the present invention, where the central evaporation surface faces the surrounding environment in a forward or backward position.

[0018] As used herein, “non-electric” means that the dispenser of the volatile composition is passive and does not require power from an external energy source. In particular, the dispenser of the volatile composition does not require power from a heat source, gas source, or electric source, and the volatile composition is not supplied by aerosol means. Furthermore, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the content clearly indicates otherwise.

[0019] As used herein, "top note" refers to a fragrance ingredient with high volatility.

[0020] As used herein, "bottom notes" refers to fragrance ingredients that are less volatile than top notes.

[0021] As used herein, “vapor” refers to the gaseous form of an organic or inorganic substance that coexists as a solid or liquid under ambient conditions including, but not limited to, temperature, humidity, and air pressure.

[0022] As used herein, “vapor-impermeable substrate” refers to a material configured to resist the diffusion of vapor from a dispenser prior to its intended use.

[0023] As used herein, "vapor release rate" refers to a measure of the passage of vapor through the substrate.

[0024] As used herein, “volatile composition” refers to a material that can volatilize at room temperature and atmospheric pressure without requiring an additional energy source. Volatile compositions can be formulated for a variety of uses, but are not limited to, air purifying, deodorizing, odor removal, odor neutralization, pest control, insect control, pest repellent, pharmaceuticals / medicines, disinfectants, sterilizers, mood enhancers, aromatherapy aids, scented compositions, unscented compositions, or any other use requiring a volatile composition that acts to adjust, modify, or otherwise alter the air or the surrounding environment. Furthermore, not all component materials of a volatile composition need to be volatile. Any amount or any form of suitable volatile composition, including liquids, solids, gels, or emulsions, may be used. Suitable materials for use herein may include non-volatile compounds such as carrier substances (e.g., water, solvents, etc.). When a volatile composition is described herein as “supplied,” “volatilized,” or “released,” this should be understood to refer to the volatilization of the volatile components of the volatile composition, and it is not necessary for the non-volatile components of the volatile composition to be volatilized.

[0025] For the purpose of illustrating the present invention in detail, the present invention is described below as a non-electric dispenser for volatile compositions. However, the dispenser for volatile compositions may be configured for use with an electric device, such as an electric heating device or a fan. The solid components described below are gel compositions containing fragrances as an example of volatile compositions. The gel compositions are polyester polyols crosslinked using a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates, and mixtures thereof. However, it will be understood that the solid components may be formed from any gel composition that can be molded into a three-dimensional object, and when cured, be self-supporting and have at least a peripheral evaporation surface and a central evaporation surface.

[0026] The solid components may be made up of various shapes and sizes to facilitate customization for the use of volatile composition dispensers, for example, in vehicles, residential interior spaces, commercial interior spaces, interior spaces of household furniture (e.g., cupboards or lockers), and as air fresheners in the interior spaces of household electrical appliances. Preferably, the household electrical appliances may be selected from the group consisting of refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and automatic dishwashers. The interior space may also be the interior environment of a portable consumer product, preferably a bag, luggage, etc.

[0027] Volatile composition dispenser The solid components of the present invention may be mounted using a volatile composition dispenser, such as a device for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space. It is conceivable that the device may be configured for use in a variety of applications for supplying volatile materials into the air and / or onto a surface, insofar as the volatile material evaporates from the device. For the purposes of this disclosure is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, but the device will be described as a non-energized device.

[0028] Figure 1 is a front view of a volatile composition dispenser 1, comprising a solid component 2 containing a volatile composition, according to the present invention. The solid component 2 is configured to contain a solid-phase volatile composition and comprises a plurality of evaporation surfaces on which the solid-phase volatile composition can evaporate. The volatile composition may be selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorizers, disinfectants, insecticides, odor reducers, and mixtures thereof. The concentration of the volatile composition may be 3% to 85% by weight, 15% to 75% by weight, 20% to 60% by weight, or different combinations of the above upper and lower limit percentages, or any combination of integers within the ranges listed above, relative to the weight of the solid component.

[0029] Referring to Figure 1, the solid component 2 comprises at least one central evaporation surface 4 and a peripheral evaporation surface 5 surrounding the at least one central evaporation surface 4. The peripheral evaporation surface 5 has at least one edge 6 defining a portion of the outer circumference of the solid component 2. The volatile composition dispenser 1 comprises a housing 3 for housing the solid component 2. The housing 3 may have a housing opening 7 configured to allow at least one central evaporation surface 4 and / or peripheral evaporation surface 5 to fluidly communicate with the internal space. A visual indicator 8 is positioned behind the solid component 2 within the housing 7.

[0030] Figure 2 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser 1 of Figure 1 in a second configuration in which a visual indicator 8 is visible when the solid component 2 shrinks from its initial size to a reduced size, in order to provide a visual cue of the dispenser 1's usage status. The visual indicator 8 is located on the inner surface of the housing 3 and may be positioned anywhere within the housing as long as it is close to the peripheral evaporation surface 5.

[0031] The visual indicator 8 can indicate the dispenser's status, selected from a group consisting of the end of the dispenser's lifespan, a quantitative status indicating the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof. As shown in Figure 2, the visual indicator 8 may be in the form of letters that explicitly display the English word "END" indicating the end of the dispenser's lifespan. Alternatively, the visual indicator 8 may be a set of letters or graphic symbols indicating the dispenser's status.

[0032] The aforementioned volatile composition dispenser 1 may be configured in any direction, such as the vertical direction during use, as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0033] The entire surface area of ​​the central evaporation surface 4 may include surface finishes as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The technical benefit of surface finishing the entire surface area of ​​the central evaporation surface 4 is to facilitate the manufacture of the solid deodorant and / or to conceal the details inside the housing 3. However, it will be understood that the visual indicator 8 can also be concealed by texture only the area of ​​the central evaporation surface 4 adjacent to the visual indicator 8, with the rest of the central evaporation surface 4 being covered by textures as described below.

[0034] method To explain how the solid component and the visual indicator function to provide a visual product life indicator according to the present invention, it is useful to understand how the visual indicator is obscured in the first configuration and how the reduction of the solid component 2 exposes the visual indicator in the second configuration. A method according to the present invention for providing a visual product life sign for a volatile composition dispenser 10 for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space will be explained with reference to Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C.

[0035] Specifically, the present invention relates to a method for providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space, the method being: To provide a volatile composition dispenser comprising a volatile composition and a solid component having a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size when exposed to the surrounding environment within the internal space, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface. To provide a visual indicator located proximal to the peripheral evaporation surface of a solid component, This includes exposing solid components to vaporize a volatile composition in order to exert an effect on the internal space, The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when a solid component shrinks from its initial size to a reduced size in order to indicate the usage status of the dispenser.

[0036] However, the solid component, the visual indicator, and the housing for receiving the solid component may be provided separately in the kit and assembled together to form a volatile composition dispenser. Thus, according to an alternative embodiment, the present invention also relates to a method for providing a visual product life sign for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into its internal space, the method being: To provide a volatile composition and a solid component having a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size when exposed to the surrounding environment within its internal space, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface. To provide a visual indicator located proximal to the peripheral evaporation surface of a solid component, To form a volatile composition dispenser for supplying volatile compositions, solid components and visual indicators are placed inside the container, This includes exposing solid components to vaporize a volatile composition in order to exert an effect on the internal space, The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when a solid component shrinks from its initial size to a reduced size in order to indicate the usage status of the dispenser.

[0037] Referring to Figure 3A, the volatile composition dispenser 10 has substantially the same components as the volatile composition dispenser 1 of Figure 1, differing in that a visual indicator 16 is located at the bottom inside the housing. The volatile composition dispenser 10 comprises a housing 14 for housing a solid component 12, the solid component 12 containing the volatile composition. The volatile composition dispenser 10 is substantially vertical. The solid component 12 has a length L, width W, and thickness D that define the three-dimensional self-supporting structure of the solid component 12. The visual indicator 16 is located inside 15 of the housing 14, behind the central evaporation surface 18 of the solid component 12 and close to the peripheral evaporation surface 19 surrounding the peripheral evaporation surface 18. The volatile composition may be described as a fragrance comprising a mixture of fragrance compounds configured to evaporate from the central evaporation surface 18 and / or the peripheral evaporation surface 19. However, it will be understood that any volatile composition that can vaporize from the solid phase (i.e., inside the solid component 12) into the gas phase may be used. The solid component 12 is positioned within the housing 14 such that a gap 17 exists between the inner surface of the housing and at least a portion of the peripheral evaporation surface 19 adjacent to the visual indicator 16. The gap 17 may be configured to facilitate airflow within the dispenser so that the peripheral evaporation surface is in fluid communication with the air within the housing, allowing the volatile composition to evaporate from the peripheral evaporation surface 19. Specifically, the gap 17 may be configured to allow contraction along the first dimension of the solid component at a faster rate than contraction along the second dimension of the solid component. The first dimension may be one of the length, width, and thickness of the solid component, and the second dimension may be one of the other of the length, width, and thickness of the solid component.

[0038] The central evaporation surface 18 is characterized by a central evaporation surface area that is larger than the peripheral evaporation surface area of ​​the peripheral evaporation surface 19.

[0039] Figure 3A shows the volatile composition dispenser 10 in a first configuration, and Figure 3B is a schematic side cross-section of Figure 3A, illustrating how the visual indicator 16 may be obscured in the first configuration of the volatile composition dispenser 10. Referring to Figures 3A and 3B, the central evaporation surface 18 may include at least one region 18A characterized by optical properties selected from the group consisting of a haze measurement of at least 50%, a total transmittance of less than 30%, and combinations thereof. The optical properties may be determined in the first or second configuration according to the measurement methods described herein in this embodiment. Specifically, in the first configuration before the solid component 12 is exposed to air, the visual indicator 16 is obscured by the solid component 12, for example, behind at least one region 18A of the central evaporation surface 18 of the solid component 12. In the case of a transparent, translucent, or see-through solid component, at least a portion of the solid component may be characterized by a haze measurement of at least 50%. The surface finish may be a matte finish, a three-dimensional surface texture, or a combination of a matte finish and a three-dimensional surface texture. The three-dimensional surface texture may be defined by a plurality of peaks 181 and valleys 182 on at least one region 18A of the central evaporation surface 18.

[0040] Referring to Figure 3B, the technical effect of texturing is to create a ridged surface on at least one region 18A of the central evaporation surface 18. Having a ridged surface causes light rays to strike and reflect towards the user's eye in various directions, thereby distorting the light and rendering the visual indicator unperceptible to the human eye.

[0041] Referring to Figure 3A, the solid component 12 has an initial length L1, and the dispenser 10 is in a first configuration in which the visual indicator 16 is not visible.

[0042] Referring to Figure 3C, when the solid component 12 is exposed to the surrounding environment, the solid component 12 exhibits contraction in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface 19, characterized by a reduced length L2. The contraction is determined based on calculating the difference between L1 and L2 of the solid component 12, where L1 is defined as the length from the peripheral evaporation surface 19 to the opposite side 21 of the peripheral evaporation surface 19.

[0043] The technical advantage of a solid component having a shrinkage rate of more than 1% but less than 40% is that the remaining portion of the solid component 12 has a structure sufficient to be a self-supporting structure, meaning the solid component 12 does not require a container to support the solid component on the installation surface. Furthermore, it also provides a sufficient surface area for ease of removal by the user. The installation surface may be an interior surface, a fixture, furniture, or other location within an interior space where the product is installed.

[0044] The solid component 12 may be made from any known material that provides a self-supporting structure and can have a mixture of evaporable and non-evaporable components, provided that the amounts of evaporable and non-evaporable components are configured to result in a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40%. Examples of evaporable components include volatile compositions and water. Examples of non-evaporable components include, but are not limited to, gelling materials, elastomers, and polyurethanes, as long as they are suitable for forming the solid component.

[0045] Table 1 shows examples of aqueous gel compositions according to the present invention.

[0046] [Table 1]

[0047] The solid components may be non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% by weight of water, and more preferably substantially water-free.

[0048] The solid components may include materials selected from the group consisting of ethylcellulose polymers, chemically crosslinked polyols or their derivatives, and mixtures thereof.

[0049] Table 2 shows examples of non-aqueous gel compositions containing ethylcellulose polymers that can have a shrinkage of 1% to 40%.

[0050] [Table 2]

[0051] The solid component may be a chemically crosslinked polyol, and the polyol or its derivative is selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably, the polyester polyol is selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates, and mixtures thereof, and is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent.

[0052] The solid components can also be molded from a moldable material (for example, one of the non-aqueous gel compositions described below).

[0053] Non-aqueous gel compositions: Gel compositions are formed using crosslinking agents that create mechanically and thermally stable covalent bonds, and are therefore difficult to break once formed. In contrast, physical crosslinking relies on changes in microstructure to achieve stability, such as in crystalline regions or highly entangled regions.

[0054] Physical gels can also hold high concentrations of hydrophobic materials such as fragrances, but their handling is more delicate because they are more easily destroyed during operation. In addition, these physical gels typically exhibit a greater volume reduction and a length reduction of 50% to 90% compared to the crosslinked gels of the present invention as the hydrophobic material evaporates. In contrast, the crosslinked gels of the present invention exhibit less shrinkage as the hydrophobic material is released, typically at the end of a period of 1 to 75 days, preferably 1 to 60 days, more preferably 1 to 45 days, to concentrations of about 1% to 40%, preferably 3% to 30%, more preferably 4% to 20%, or different combinations of the above upper and lower limit percentages, or any integer combination within the ranges listed above.

[0055] The gel composition may have an elastic modulus G' greater than 0.1 kPa, preferably greater than 1 kPa, more preferably greater than 2 kPa, and less than 100 kPa.

[0056] The gel may be a chemically crosslinked polyol or a derivative thereof. Suitable polyols or derivatives can be selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols, and mixtures thereof. Polyols, polyester polyols, and polyglycerols contain multiple hydroxyl groups and are suitable for forming gels with a compact network. In addition, the resulting gel has a higher affinity for less hydrophobic materials.

[0057] Suitable polyols or their derivatives may have molecular weights of 60 Da to 10,000 Da, preferably 150 Da to 3,000 Da, more preferably 500 Da to 2,000 Da, and even more preferably 600 Da to 1,300 Da. Longer polyols and their derivatives result in greater flexibility of the gel.

[0058] Suitable polyols and their derivatives do not contain terminal hydroxyl groups. Secondary alcohols are particularly preferred. Primary alcohols having terminal hydroxyl groups typically result in more linear and more compact networks. Combinations of primary and secondary alcohols are preferred because they yield a more desirable correlation length.

[0059] When secondary alcohols are used, gels with more optimal pore sizes can be obtained. Lightly branched polyols and their derivatives, such as poly(diethylene glycol adipate), result in more flexible gels. Preferred polyols and their derivatives have at least two hydroxyl groups per molecule, more preferably at least three hydroxyl groups per molecule.

[0060] Polyols are compounds containing multiple hydroxyl groups. Diol polyols with two hydroxyl functional groups result from crosslinking in linear polymers or in more open networks with larger pore sizes. In contrast, hydroxyl-functional monomers with more than two functional groups form more compact gels with smaller pore sizes. Suitable polyols include ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, pentaerythritol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, 4,6-di-tert-butylbenzene-1,2,3-triol, propanetriol (glycerol), 1,2,5-hexanetriol, 1,2,4-cyclohexanetriol, 2,5-dimethylhexane-1,2,6-triol, 3-hydroxymethylpentane-1,2,5-triol, 1,3,6-hexanetriol, 1,1,5,5-pentanetretraol, 1,2,5,6-hexanetretraol, 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexanehexol (sorbitol), and mixtures thereof.

[0061] Polyester polyols are hydroxyl-containing esters. Suitable polyester polyols can be selected from the group consisting of aliphatic polyester polyols, aromatic polyester polyols, organic oil-based polyester polyols, and mixtures thereof. Organic oil-based polyester polyols are preferred. Preferred organic oils are vegetable oils, as they typically contain a high concentration of unsaturated (C=C) bonds and naturally contain hydroxyl groups. Suitable polyester polyols include hexanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-,1,1',1''-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester; pentanoic acid, 5-amino-4-hydroxy-,1,1',1''-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester; polycaprolactone triols; castor oil, hydroxysunflower oil (HSO), and mixtures thereof.

[0062] Castor oil is particularly suitable. Castor oil (Ricinus communis) is a pale yellow, viscous liquid extracted from the beans (Ricinus communis) of the castor plant. Castor oil is mainly composed of fatty acid triglycerides containing 87-90% ricinoleic acid (cis-12-hydroxyoctadeca-9-enoic acid) and can be obtained in high purity grades. Castor oil and its derivatives have been used as polyols for polyurethanes and adhesives. Castor oil can be partially hydrogenated. Castor oil has been found to be particularly suitable for providing chemically crosslinked gels with pore sizes that result in the slow release of hydrophobic materials, especially when the hydrophobic material is a fragrance. In addition, chemically crosslinked gels derived from castor oil show less extrusion of hydrophobic material from the gel.

[0063] Polyglycerols are hydroxyl-containing ethers. Polyglycerols are typically obtained by polymerization of alkylene oxides (such as epoxides). Suitable alkylene oxides include ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, butylene oxide, and mixtures thereof, using chain initiators such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,4-butanediol, neopentyl glycol, pentaerythritol, hexanetriol, sorbitol, glycerol, and mixtures thereof. Suitable polyglycerols can be selected from the group consisting of α,α-diglycerol, α,β-diglycerol, hyperbranched polyglycerol, dendritic polyglycerol, and mixtures thereof. Hyperbranched polyglycerols are aliphatic polyethers having multiple hydroxyl-terminated groups, obtained from the asymmetric polyaddition of glycidol to glycerol, resulting in a spherical branch-on-branch structure that provides special internal flexibility. Dendritic polyglycerols are hyperbranched polyglycerols having a clearly defined, symmetrical, spherical three-dimensional structure around a core. Apart from improved gel elasticity, the dendritic structure of hyperbranched polyglycerols, with its exceptionally large number of functional groups and sterically shielded core, produces a flexible gel with relatively small pore sizes. This increases the lifetime of the final composition by reducing the diffusion rate as a result of improved H-bonding and van der Waals interactions, in addition to physically encapsulating the hydrophobic material. Such polyglycerols can be purchased from Nanopartica GmbH (Germany) and Sigma-Aldrich. Suitable polyglycerols include polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, poly(diethylene glycol), poly(dipropylene glycol), poly(1,4-butanediol), poly(neopentyl glycol), poly(1,6-hexanediol), and mixtures thereof. The polyglycerols preferably have 2 to 50, preferably 4 to 30, repeating units.

[0064] Any suitable crosslinking agent may be used, but a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyanates, and mixtures thereof is preferred. The crosslinking agent may be linear, branched, or cyclic isocyanates, and mixtures thereof. Cyclic isocyanates and mixtures thereof are preferred. Suitable cyclic isocyanates include heterocyclic isocyanates such as 1,3,5-tris(5-isocyanatopentyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione.

[0065] Suitable crosslinking agents include 1,4-butane diisocyanate (BDI), 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), L-lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI), 4,4'-methylenebis(cyclohexyl isocyanate) (H12MDI), glycolide-ethylene glycol-glycolide isocyanate (Bezwada, LLC), 4,4'-methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) (MDI), 2,4'-methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) (MDI), 2,2'-methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) (MDI), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and 2,4-toluene diisocyanate (2,4-TDI). The crosslinking agents can be selected from the group consisting of 2,6-toluene diisocyanate (2,6-TDI), poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate) (PDI), 1,3-bis(2-isocyanatopropan-2-yl)benzene, poly(pentamethylene diisocyanate), and mixtures thereof, preferably 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), L-lysine ethyl ester diisocyanate (LDI), poly(pentamethylene diisocyanate), poly(hexamethylene diisocyanate) (PDI), 1,3,5-tris(5-isocyanatopentyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione, and mixtures thereof. Such crosslinking agents are available from Sigma-Aldrich and Covestro under the trademark name Desmodur® eco N 7300.

[0066] The crosslinking agent may have a viscosity of less than 2,500 mPa·s at 25°C and an isocyanate equivalent of 15% to 40%, preferably 18% to 30%. Such crosslinking agents blend more readily with polyols. As a result, a more uniform gel can be obtained.

[0067] The gel preferably contains essentially no unreacted isocyanates and / or isothiocyanates.

[0068] The gel may further contain a hydroxyl-containing polymer, a hydroxyl-containing oligomer, or a mixture thereof. The hydroxyl-containing polymer and / or oligomer can be used to alter the elasticity of the gel composition and therefore the fragrance release life (a higher modulus of elasticity G' slows down the release of the fragrance).

[0069] Suitable hydroxyl-containing polymers can be selected from the group consisting of poloxamers, gelatin, carrageenan, chitin, chitosan, and mixtures thereof.

[0070] Poloxamers are nonionic triblock copolymers composed of a central hydrophobic chain of polyoxypropylene (poly(propylene oxide)) adjacent to two hydrophilic chains of polyoxyethylene (poly(ethylene oxide)). Preferred poloxamers have a weight-average molecular weight of 1500 g / mol to 15000 g / mol and a weight percentage of 10% to 80%, preferably 50% to 80%, of poly(ethylene oxide). Preferred poloxamers are commercially available from BASF under the trademark name Pluronic®.

[0071] Gelatin is typically translucent, colorless, and is usually obtained from collagen from various animal body parts. It is commonly used as a gelling agent in the food, pharmaceutical, vitamin capsule, photographic, and cosmetic manufacturing industries. Suitable gelatin may have a bloom grade of 90–300. Bloom is a test to measure the strength of a gel or gelatin and is measured according to the method outlined in U.S. Patent No. 1540979 by Bloom. The test measures the weight in grams required to press the surface of a 4 mm gel without breaking it at a temperature of 25°C using a plunger with a diameter of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm). This result is expressed in bloom (grade) units, which is typically 30–300 bloom. To perform the bloom test on gelatin, a 6.67 wt% gelatin solution is held at 10°C for 17–18 hours prior to the test.

[0072] Carrageenans are sulfated polysaccharides derived from red algae, such as the Irish moss. They are typically composed primarily of α-D-galactopyranose-4-sulfate units and 3,6-anhydro-α-D-galactopyranose units. At least three forms are known, designated as "iota," "kappa," and "lambda" carrageenans, which differ in the ratio of the two galactopyranose units and therefore their sulfate ester content.

[0073] Kappa-carrageenan is the main component in aqueous extracts from Chondrus crispus and Gigartina stellata. It has a lower sulfate ester content than iota and lambda-carrageenan.

[0074] Chitosan is typically obtained by deacetylating chitin, the second most abundant biopolymer in nature after cellulose, under alkaline conditions. Chitin can be found as an important component of the exoskeletons of animals, particularly crustaceans, mollusks, and insects, and is also the major polymer in the cell walls of certain fungi. Chitin and chitosan are linear polysaccharides consisting of randomly distributed β-(1-4) linked D-glucosamine (deacetylation units) and N-acetyl-glucosamine (acetylation units). Chitosan has two graftable reactive groups: a free amine group on the deacetylation unit and hydroxyl groups on the C3 and C6 carbons of the acetylated or deacetylation unit.

[0075] The chitosan of the present invention may have a molecular weight of 10,000 g / mol to 4,000,000 g / mol, preferably 70,000 g / mol to 1,600,000 g / mol. A suitable chitosan may have a degree of deacetylation of at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, and even more preferably at least 75%.

[0076] The gel composition may be transparent or translucent. The gel composition may have any preferred shape, such as star-shaped, circular, or pyramidal. The gel composition may be colored by adding dyes. The gel composition of the present invention may be molded into a desired shape, or even 3D printed.

[0077] The gel composition may be any suitable shape or size, as both its shape and size define the evaporation surface area of ​​the gel composition. It is known that the shape and size of the gel composition can affect the release and lifespan of the hydrophobic material. For example, a thin sheet will release faster and have a shorter lifespan compared to a sphere of the same mass of gel composition. A suitable gel composition is 150 cm². 2 Less than 3.0 to 100 cm 2 , more preferably 6.0~60cm 2 It may have an evaporation surface area.

[0078] The evaporation surface area can be measured by creating a 3D model of the gel composition using CAD software and calculating the surface area using CAD software. Any suitable CAD software, such as AutoCAD® 2013, can be used.

[0079] Figure 4 is a front perspective view of the solid component 20 for the volatile composition dispenser according to the present invention.

[0080] Specifically, the solid component 20 has the same features as the solid component 1 in Figure 1, and comprises a central evaporation surface 21 and peripheral evaporation surfaces 22 surrounding the central evaporation surface 21. The central evaporation surface 21 includes a three-dimensional pattern 23 defining a undulating surface that extends across the entire central evaporation surface 21. The solid component 20 may be characterized by a haze measurement of at least 50% in order to obscure a visual indicator in the first configuration of the volatile composition dispenser.

[0081] Figure 5 is a front perspective view of a different design of solid component 30 having a similar size and shape to solid component 20 in Figure 3, but without a textured surface. Solid component 30 has substantially the same characteristics as solid component 20 in Figure 3, except that solid component 30 substantially does not include a textured surface. In order to obscure the visual indicator in the first configuration, solid component 30 may be characterized by a total transmittance of less than 30%. A total transmittance of less than 30% for solid component 30 can be achieved by adding a coloring dye during the fabrication of solid component 30. The technique for adding the coloring dye depends on the structural material used to fabricate solid component 30. The structural material contains components for fabricating the aforementioned gel composition.

[0082] Figure 6 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser 50 comprising a housing 51 with a solid component 52 according to the present invention. In Figure 6, the solid component 52 is of initial size and has a visual indicator 58 in a first configuration in which the visual indicator 58 is not visually recognizable by the present invention.

[0083] Figure 7 is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser 50 of Figure 6 in a second configuration in which the visual indicator 58 is visually recognizable. Specifically, the housing 51 further comprises an inner surface 53, and the visual indicator 58 is disposed on the inner surface 53.

[0084] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the components within the volatile composition dispenser 50 of Figure 6. The housing 51 may include a front cover 54 and a rear frame 56, which, when assembled, define the interior of the housing for receiving the solid component 52. A component holder 60 may be disposed between the front cover 54 and the rear cover 56, and the component holder 60 is configured to hold the solid component 52 in a predetermined position within the housing. Each of the front cover 54 and the rear frame 56 is provided with a plurality of openings 403 (hereinafter referred to as "openings") for vaporizing the volatile composition in the solid component 52 into the internal space. The component holder 60 includes an anchor 62 for removably attaching the solid component 52 to the component holder 60, and a central opening 64 configured to surround the solid component 52. The solid component 52 may have an opening 64 that is sized and shaped to fit with the anchor 62. Specifically, the opening 64 extends through the end 66 of the solid component 52.

[0085] Figure 9 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a volatile composition dispenser 70 having a component holder 72 and a solid component 74 according to the present invention. Specifically, the dispenser 70 has substantially the same features as the dispenser 50 of Figure 8, but differs from the dispenser 50 in that it lacks a housing. The component holder 72 includes an anchor 76 for supporting the solid component 74 in a suspended configuration above the surface of the internal space, and the solid component 74 is detachably attached to the anchor 76. The central evaporation surface 75 of the solid component 74 faces forward, and a visual indicator (not shown) may be provided on the opposite side of the central evaporation surface 75.

[0086] Figure 10 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a component holder 80 for a dispenser of volatile compositions according to the present invention. The component holder 80 comprises a bottom surface 82 and side walls 83 extending from the bottom surface 82 and defining an internal cavity for receiving solid components. An anchor 84 is disposed on the bottom surface 83 for removably attaching solid components to the component holder 80. The anchor 84 may include a projection extending from the bottom surface 83. The anchor 84 comprises an anchor top 85 and anchor sides 86 surrounding the anchor top 85.

[0087] Figure 11 is a front perspective view of the component holder 80 of Figure 10 with a solid component 90 according to the present invention. The solid component 90 includes an anchor receiving opening 92 for removable attachment to an anchor 84. The anchor receiving opening 92 may include a first opening portion 93 having a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the anchor 84. The anchor receiving opening 92 may further include a second opening portion 94 extending from the first opening portion 93 through the outer circumference of the solid component 90.

[0088] The housing, front cover, rear cover, and component holder may be made from plastic, paper, or any material that is chemically compatible with the solid components.

[0089] The following embodiments are intended to illustrate the present invention more fully and should not be construed as limiting, as many variations thereof are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. All proportions, percentages and ratios herein are expressed as weight percentages unless otherwise specified. [Examples]

[0090] Data is provided demonstrating the volatile composition dispenser of the present invention, which has an improved visible indicator for providing consumers with a sign of product lifespan. The solid components according to the present invention are prepared based on the compositional details described in Table 1 below and evaluated for shrinkage (the results are shown in Table 2).

[0091] [Table 3]

[0092] The solid component samples of the present invention are prepared according to the procedure described below, with the compositional details described in Table 1.

[0093] Instructions for making: A polyol or its derivative is mixed with a volatile composition, and a hydroxyl-containing polymer is optionally added. Subsequently, a crosslinking agent is added at a temperature of 5°C to 35°C, preferably 15°C to 30°C, and further mixing is performed to obtain a homogeneous mixture. The mixture is poured into a mold of the desired shape and cured at a curing temperature of preferably 20°C to 30°C. These temperatures limit the evaporation of volatile components of the hydrophobic material. Alternatively, the mixture may be kept below 5°C to avoid curing. Curing then begins only when the temperature rises to the curing temperature.

[0094] The polyol or its derivative may be mixed with a crosslinking agent and optionally a hydroxyl-containing polymer at a temperature of preferably 20°C to 85°C, more preferably 30°C to 75°C, for 10 minutes to 10 hours, preferably 15 minutes to 2 hours. The mixture may be cooled, and a hydrophobic material may be added at a temperature of preferably 10°C to 40°C, more preferably 15°C to 30°C, and mixed further for, for example, 15 to 120 minutes. The mixture may be poured into a desired mold and cured at a temperature of preferably 20°C to 30°C.

[0095] Alternatively, all the components of the gel composition may be blended at a low temperature, such as 5°C or below, before the temperature rises to the curing temperature.

[0096] result The shrinkage results for samples 1 to 6 of the present invention shown in Table 1 are shown in Table 2 below. Specifically, the shrinkage is determined based on the following equation (1). Shrinkage rate = (Initial length - Shrinkage length) / Initial length × 100% During the ceremony, Initial length = length or diameter of the solid part before use Reduced length = the length or diameter of a solid part after a specified period of use.

[0097] [Table 4]

[0098] All of the above samples 1-6 of the present invention have a shrinkage of 6.3% to 12.5%, or less than 40%. As a result, each sample at the end of its lifespan is a single, solid piece of sufficient size to be easily removed, thereby reducing contamination. In contrast, conventional gels leave behind a gelling polymer after the water and fragrance have evaporated, and this remaining gelling polymer causes stickiness within the gel. Furthermore, the remaining gel also sticks to the container, is easily torn, and produces a dirty residue.

[0099] The solid component according to the present invention is prepared according to the procedure described above, based on the compositional details described in Table 3 below. The solid component is evaluated for the visual recognizability of the visual indicator in the first configuration (the results are shown in Table 4).

[0100] [Table 5]

[0101] [Table 6]

[0102] Using a PerkinElmer Lambda 950 UV / VIS / NIR spectrophotometer (with a 150 mm integrating sphere), the total transmittance, diffuse transmittance, and haze measurements were measured for each of the comparative sample and the sample of the present invention, according to the ASTM 01003-13 test method for haze. Low haze measurements correspond to the transparency of the solid component.

[0103] Specifically, Hayes is determined by the following formula: Haze = Diffuse transmittance / (Total transmittance (reflection transmittance and diffuse transmittance)) × 100%

[0104] Referring to Table 4, comparative sample 7 has a total transmittance much greater than 30% and a haze measurement much less than 50%. Therefore, the visual indicator is still visually perceptible for samples 8 and 9 of the present invention.

[0105] One example is as follows: A. A volatile composition dispenser, A solid component comprising a volatile composition and a surrounding evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the surrounding environment within its internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size relative to the surrounding evaporation surface, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the surrounding evaporation surface. A visual indicator located near the evaporation surface surrounding the solid component, A dispenser having a first configuration in which a visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which, in order to indicate the usage state of the dispenser, the visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when at least a portion of a solid part shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size. B. The dispenser according to item A, wherein the contraction is 3% to 30%, preferably 4% to 20%, at the end of a period of 1 to 75 days, preferably 1 to 60 days, more preferably 1 to 45 days. C. The dispenser according to item A or B, further comprising a housing configured to receive a solid component, and a gap between the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component and the inner surface of the housing, wherein the gap is configured to allow the solid component to shrink along a first dimension at a faster rate than the shrinkage along a second dimension of the solid component. The dispenser according to item C, further comprising anchors located within the housing, wherein solid components are removably attached to the anchors to provide a gap. E. The dispenser according to any one of items A to D, wherein the solid component has a central evaporation surface and a visual indicator is positioned behind the central evaporation surface. F. A dispenser according to any one of items A to E, wherein a visual indicator indicates a dispenser state selected from the group consisting of the end of the dispenser's life, a quantitative state indicating the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof, preferably the visual indicator is a set of letters or graphic symbols indicating the dispenser state, and more preferably the visual indicator is a single word or graphic symbol indicating the end of the dispenser's life. G. The dispenser according to any one of items A to F, wherein the volatile composition is selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorizers, disinfectants, insecticides, odor reducers, and mixtures thereof, and preferably the volatile composition is present in a concentration of 3% to 85% by weight, preferably 15% to 75% by weight, and more preferably 20% to 60% by weight of the solid component. H. The dispenser according to any one of items A to G, wherein the solid components are non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% by weight of water, and more preferably substantially water-free. I. A dispenser according to any one of claims A to H, wherein the solid component comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of ethylcellulose polymer, chemically crosslinked polyol or derivative thereof, and mixtures thereof. J. The dispenser according to item I, wherein the solid component comprises a chemically crosslinked polyol, the polyol or its derivative being selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative being a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol being crosslinked using a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyans and mixtures thereof. K. A dispenser according to any one of clauses A to J, wherein at least a portion of the solid component is characterized by optical properties selected from the group consisting of a haze measurement of at least 40%, a total transmittance of less than 30%, and combinations thereof. A dispenser according to any one of items D through K, wherein the L. anchor is included within the component holder. The dispenser according to item L, wherein the parts holder has a central opening configured to receive a solid part. N. A solid component for a volatile composition dispenser, wherein the solid component is A volatile composition comprises at least one central evaporation surface and a peripheral evaporation surface surrounding the central evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the surrounding environment within the internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface, characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface, and the central evaporation surface is 150 cm 2 Less than 3.0 to 100 cm 2 , more preferably 6.0~60cm 2 A solid component characterized by its central evaporation surface area. O. A method for providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space, wherein the method is: To provide a volatile composition dispenser comprising a volatile composition and a solid component having a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the ambient environment within the internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size, and the shrinkage of the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface. To provide a visual indicator located proximal to the peripheral evaporation surface of a solid component, This includes exposing solid components to vaporize a volatile composition in order to exert an effect on the internal space, A method comprising a dispenser having a first configuration in which a visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which a visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when a solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate the usage state of the dispenser. P. A method for providing a visual product life sign for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space, wherein the method is: To provide a volatile composition and a solid component having a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the ambient environment within its internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface. To provide a visual indicator located proximal to the peripheral evaporation surface of a solid component, To form a volatile composition dispenser for supplying volatile compositions, solid components and visual indicators are placed inside the container, This includes exposing solid components to vaporize a volatile composition in order to exert an effect on the internal space, A method comprising a dispenser having a first configuration in which a visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which a visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when a solid component shrinks from an initial size to a reduced size to indicate the usage state of the dispenser.

[0106] All documents referenced herein, including any patents or patent applications that are cross-referenced or related, and any patent applications or patents on which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety unless explicitly stated to be excluded or limited. No reference to any document shall be deemed prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, nor shall it be deemed to teach, suggest or disclose any such invention, either alone or in combination with any other reference(s). Furthermore, if 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 the term in this document shall prevail.

[0107] 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. [combination] The various aspects of this disclosure are summarized below as an appendix. (Note 1) A volatile composition dispenser, A solid component comprising a volatile composition and a surrounding evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the surrounding environment within its internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size relative to the surrounding evaporation surface, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the surrounding evaporation surface. The solid component comprises a visual indicator located near the peripheral evaporation surface, A dispenser having a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when at least a portion of the solid component shrinks from the initial size to the reduced size in order to indicate the state of use of the dispenser. (Note 2) The dispenser according to Appendix 1, wherein the contraction is 3% to 30%, preferably 4% to 20%, at the end of a period of 1 to 75 days, preferably 1 to 60 days, more preferably 1 to 45 days. (Note 3) The dispenser according to Appendix 1 or 2, further comprising a housing configured to receive the solid component, and a gap between the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component and the inner surface of the housing, wherein the gap is configured to allow the solid component to shrink along a first dimension at a faster rate than the solid component shrinks along a second dimension. (Note 4) The dispenser according to Appendix 3, further comprising an anchor located within the housing, wherein the solid component is removably attached to the anchor so as to provide the gap. (Note 5) The dispenser according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, wherein the solid component has a central evaporation surface, and the visual indicator is disposed behind the central evaporation surface. (Note 6) The dispenser according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, wherein the visual indicator indicates a state of the dispenser selected from the group consisting of the end of the dispenser's life, a quantitative state indicating the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof, preferably the visual indicator is a set of letters or graphic symbols indicating the state of the dispenser, and more preferably the visual indicator is a single word or graphic symbol indicating the end of the dispenser's life. (Note 7) The dispenser according to any one of the appendices 1 to 6, wherein the volatile composition is selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorizers, disinfectants, insecticides, odor reducers, and mixtures thereof, and preferably the volatile composition is present in a concentration of 3% to 85% by weight, preferably 15% to 75% by weight, and more preferably 20% to 60% by weight of the solid component. (Note 8) The dispenser according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, wherein the solid component is non-aqueous, preferably containing less than 1% by weight of water, and more preferably substantially water-free. (Note 9) The dispenser according to any one of the appendices 1 to 8, wherein the solid component comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of an ethylcellulose polymer, a chemically crosslinked polyol or derivative thereof, and mixtures thereof. (Note 10) The dispenser according to Appendix 9, wherein the solid component comprises a chemically crosslinked polyol, the polyol or its derivative is selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols and mixtures thereof, preferably the polyol derivative is a polyester polyol, more preferably castor oil, and even more preferably the polyester polyol is crosslinked using a crosslinking agent selected from the group consisting of isocyanates, isothiocyans and mixtures thereof. (Note 11) The dispenser according to any one of the appendices 1 to 10, wherein at least a portion of the solid component is characterized by optical properties selected from the group consisting of a haze measurement of at least 40%, a total transmittance of less than 30%, and combinations thereof. (Note 12) The dispenser according to any one of the appendices 4 to 11, wherein the aforementioned anchor is included within the component holder. (Note 13) The dispenser according to Appendix 12, wherein the component holder has a central opening configured to receive the solid component. (Note 14) A solid component for a volatile composition dispenser, wherein the solid component is A volatile composition comprises a volatile composition, at least one central evaporation surface, and a peripheral evaporation surface surrounding the central evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the surrounding environment within the internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size relative to the peripheral evaporation surface, the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface, and the central evaporation surface is 150 cm 2 Less than 3.0 to 100 cm 2 , more preferably 6.0~60cm 2 A solid component characterized by its central evaporation surface area. (Note 15) A method for providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space, wherein the method is: To provide a solid component having a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the surrounding environment within the internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface. To provide a visual indicator located near the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component, To form a volatile composition dispenser for supplying the volatile composition, the solid component and the visual indicator are placed inside the container, This includes exposing the solid component to vaporize the volatile composition in order to exert an effect on the internal space, A method wherein the dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which the visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when the solid component shrinks from the initial size to the reduced size in order to indicate the usage state of the dispenser.

Claims

1. A volatile composition dispenser, A solid component comprising a volatile composition and a surrounding evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the surrounding environment within its internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size relative to the surrounding evaporation surface, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the surrounding evaporation surface. The solid component comprises a visual indicator located near the peripheral evaporation surface, The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which, in order to indicate the usage state of the dispenser, the visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when at least a portion of the solid component shrinks from the initial size to the reduced size. A dispenser in which the solid component has a central evaporation surface, and the visual indicator is disposed behind the central evaporation surface.

2. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the contraction is 3% to 30% at the end of the period of 1 to 75 days.

3. The dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a housing configured to receive the solid component, and a gap between the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component and the inner surface of the housing, wherein the gap is configured to allow the solid component to shrink along a first dimension at a faster rate than the solid component shrinks along a second dimension.

4. The dispenser according to claim 3, further comprising an anchor disposed within the housing, wherein the solid component is removably attached to the anchor so as to provide the gap.

5. The dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the visual indicator indicates a state of the dispenser selected from the group consisting of the end of the dispenser's lifespan, a quantitative state indicating the number of days the dispenser has been used, and combinations thereof.

6. The dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the volatile composition is selected from the group consisting of fragrances, deodorizers, disinfectants, insecticides, odor reducers, and mixtures thereof.

7. The dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the solid component is non-aqueous.

8. The dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the solid component comprises a gel composition selected from the group consisting of an ethylcellulose polymer, a chemically crosslinked polyol or its derivative, and mixtures thereof.

9. The dispenser according to claim 8, wherein the solid component comprises a chemically crosslinked polyol, and the polyol or its derivative is selected from the group consisting of polyols, polyester polyols, polyglycerols, and mixtures thereof.

10. The dispenser according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the solid component is characterized by optical properties selected from the group consisting of a haze measurement of at least 40%, a total transmittance of less than 30%, and combinations thereof.

11. The dispenser according to claim 4, wherein the anchor is included in the component holder.

12. The dispenser according to claim 11, wherein the component holder has a central opening configured to receive the solid component.

13. A method for providing a visual product life indicator for a volatile composition dispenser for supplying a volatile composition into an internal space, wherein the method is: To provide a solid component having a volatile composition and a peripheral evaporation surface, wherein when the solid component is exposed to the surrounding environment within the internal space, the solid component can shrink from its initial size to a smaller size, and the solid component is characterized by a shrinkage of more than 1% to less than 40% in the direction away from the peripheral evaporation surface. To provide a visual indicator located near the peripheral evaporation surface of the solid component, To form a volatile composition dispenser for supplying the volatile composition, the solid component and the visual indicator are placed inside the container, This includes exposing the solid component to vaporize the volatile composition in order to exert an effect on the internal space, The dispenser has a first configuration in which the visual indicator is not visually recognizable, and a second configuration in which, in order to indicate the usage state of the dispenser, the visual indicator becomes visually recognizable when the solid component shrinks from the initial size to the reduced size. A method wherein the solid component has a central evaporation surface, and the visual indicator is disposed behind the central evaporation surface.

Images