Dose counter for a dispensing device, associated dispensing device and associated dispensing assembly

Abstract

The dose counter (100) for a device (20) for dispensing several doses of a product comprises a first graduated rotary element (110), a second graduated rotary element (120), and a transmission mechanism (130) between said rotary elements. The first rotary element comprises first and second reliefs (119A; 119B), which cooperate alternately with the transmission mechanism in order to rotate the second rotary element by one graduation each each time the first rotary element makes a complete rotation. The graduation of the second rotary element comprises at least two identical adjacent digits. A priming cover (150) is arranged so as to mask a window (302) for viewing the graduations as long as the second rotary element has not been rotated at least once.

Description

[0001] TITLE: Dose counter for a dispensing device, associated dispensing device and dispensing assembly

[0002] The present invention relates to a dose counter for a dispensing device, in particular a drug dispensing device, a dispensing device comprising such a dose counter, and a dispensing assembly comprising such a dispensing device.

[0003] Of particular interest here are dispensing assemblies comprising a container, which contains several doses of a product in liquid form, for example in suspension or entirely liquid form, or in solid form, for example in powder or tablet form, and a dispensing device comprising a dispensing member with an actuator, the actuator being operable by a user, so as to deliver a predetermined quantity of the product contained in the container, in other words to deliver a dose of the product. Particularly in the medical field, where the product contained in the container is a medicament, it is useful for the user to know how many doses are still available in the container or how many doses have already been delivered.To this end, the dispensing device also includes a dose counter, which is activated each time the user actuates the actuator to deliver a dose of product, for example by means of a mechanical return, i.e. a mechanical connection, between the actuator and the dose counter. More specifically, certain treatments require the patient to take a precise quantity of medication, an underdose being able to result in a lack of effect of the medication, or an overdose being able to result in more or less serious adverse effects for the patient. The presence of a dose counter allows the patient to have more certain information on the taking of the treatment and also to know whether the dispensing assembly contains enough doses of medication to ensure the treatment.

[0004] The dose counter generally comprises an indicator with numbers, so as to indicate to the user a numerical indication relating to the number of doses dispensed or remaining in the container. Since containers generally contain several dozen doses, it is known to produce counting devices with two graduated elements, generally in the form of rotating wheels or crowns, a first of the two graduated elements indicating the units digit of the number of doses dispensed or remaining, while a second of the two graduated elements indicates the tens digit of the number of doses dispensed or remaining or the tens and hundreds digit of the number of doses dispensed or remaining. Document FR-2 940 642-A1 describes an example of such a dose counter.

[0005] It is also known to provide a cover, which indicates to the user that all the intended doses have been used. WO-2009 / 103711-A1 describes, for example, a dose counter comprising two graduated rings. In this example, the tens ring comprises a cover, which extends above the units ring so as to mask the units digit when the dose counter reaches zero, in other words when the number of doses available in the container is estimated to be zero.

[0006] In many cases, particularly for liquid products, the dispensing assembly is provided with a dispensing device comprising a pump and an internal conduit opening through an outlet orifice. Actuation of the pump by the user, via the actuator, causes the product to be drawn into the internal conduit and expelled through the outlet orifice. During the manufacture of the pump and then when the dispensing device is assembled with the container to form the dispensing assembly, the pump is not loaded with product to be dispensed, and the user must, upon first use, follow a procedure for priming the pump, generally by actuating the dispensing device a predetermined number of times, until the internal conduit and the pump are filled with the product.Once the priming procedure is completed, the dispensing assembly is ready for use, i.e. the dispensing device delivers the expected dose each time the user operates the actuator.

[0007] The user must therefore read the instructions for the dispensing unit to determine the number of actuations required for the priming procedure, then operate the actuator the required number of times, which is a source of error. Indeed, if the user does not fully prime, there is a risk that the dose of product delivered during the next use will be insufficient. Conversely, carrying out a priming procedure by operating the actuator more times than required results in product waste.

[0008] Furthermore, the number of actuations required for the priming procedure is dependent on the technology and the dose that the pump is capable of delivering and can vary between four and ten actuations. Available dose counters having a priming indication are generally designed to be compatible with a fixed number of priming actuations and therefore dependent on a single pump technology. In other words, for a given dose counter, a change in the dose to be delivered or in the pump technology would make this counter incompatible without a complex change in its structure. It is these problems that the invention more particularly intends to address, by proposing a dose counter which makes it easier for the user to follow the priming procedure and which is compatible with a greater choice of number of actuations required for the priming procedure.

[0009] To this end, the invention relates to a dose counter for a device for dispensing several doses of a product, in particular a pharmaceutical product, the dose counter comprising a first rotary element having first graduations in the form of a first series of numbers distributed angularly on the first rotary element, the first rotary element comprising a first drive member and a second drive member, the first drive member being configured to cooperate with an actuator of the dispensing device so that the first rotary element is rotated each time the actuator is actuated, and the second drive member comprising first reliefs, the dose counter comprising a second rotary element, which has second graduations in the form of a second series of numbers distributed angularly on the second rotary element, and which comprises a third drive member,the dose counter comprising a transmission mechanism configured to cooperate jointly with the first reliefs of the second drive member once per revolution of the first rotary element and with the third drive member of the second rotary element, so as to rotate the second rotary element each time the first reliefs of the second drive member cooperate with the transmission mechanism, the first rotary element and the second rotary element cooperating to indicate together, by means of the first and second graduations, a numerical indication on a number of doses dispensed or remaining to be dispensed by the dispensing device, the first rotary element and the second rotary element being arranged so that the numerical indication is visible through a window of a housing of the dose counter. According to the invention, the second drive member comprises second reliefs,which are different from the first reliefs, the second reliefs being configured to cooperate with the transmission mechanism, once per revolution of the first rotating element, so as to rotate the second rotating element, and at least two adjacent digits of the second series of digits are identical, and the dose counter comprises a priming cover, which is arranged so as to mask the numerical indication in the window until the second rotating element has been rotated at least once.,

[0010] Thanks to the invention, the priming cover closes the viewing window until the user has actuated the actuator a predetermined number of times, in other words until the priming procedure is complete. The dose counter thus provides a visual indication to the user, without requiring the user to read a notice or count the number of activations required for the priming procedure. The priming procedure is thus facilitated, reducing the risks of incomplete priming or product waste.With such a construction, the second rotating element will be rotated twice per complete revolution of the first rotating element, a first time when one of the first or second reliefs cooperates with the transmission mechanism, with the consequence that the priming cover ceases to mask the numerical indication, then a second time when the other of the first or second reliefs cooperates with the transmission mechanism. Thus the number of activations which will cause the movement of the cover is directly dependent on the position of the first or second reliefs on the second rotating element. Consequently, to allow the dose counter to be compatible with several numbers of priming activations, it is sufficient to move the position of the first or second reliefs on the second rotating element, a simple operation for a person skilled in the art.Thus the dose counter according to the invention will be compatible with pumps of different technologies or different dosages.

[0011] According to advantageous but not mandatory aspects of the invention, such a dose counter may incorporate one or more of the following features taken in isolation or in any technically admissible combination.

[0012] Advantageously, the first rotary element rotates through a first predefined angle each time the first drive member cooperates with the actuator. Preferably, each digit of the first series of digits is angularly distributed according to the first predefined angle. Thus, throughout the use of the dose counter, the risks of misalignment of the first series of digits with the window are limited. Indeed, if the predefined angle corresponds to the angular difference between two successive digits, each digit arrives at the same position relative to the window after the rotation of the first rotary element. This improves the readability of the numerical indication for the user.

[0013] Advantageously, the second rotary element rotates through a second predefined angle each time the transmission mechanism cooperates with the third drive member. Preferably, each digit of the second series of digits is angularly distributed according to the second predefined angle. Thus, throughout the use of the dose counter, the risks of misalignment of the second series of digits with the window are limited. Indeed, if the predefined angle corresponds to the angular difference between two successive digits, each digit arrives at the same position relative to the window after the rotation of the second rotary element. This improves the readability of the numerical indication for the user. Advantageously, the second reliefs are angularly separated from the first reliefs by an angle equal to the product of the first predefined angle by a first predefined number, the first number being a non-zero positive integer.Preferably, the first predefined number is equal to the number of actuations required for the priming procedure. Such a construction allows the first rotation of the second rotating element to take place after a number of actuations corresponding to the number of actuations required for the priming procedure, and consequently the priming cover no longer masks the indication in the window once the number of actuations required for the priming procedure has been carried out.

[0014] Advantageously, an axis of rotation of the first rotary element and an axis of rotation of the second rotary element are parallel to each other, while the third drive member comprises a series of circumferential teeth forming a toothed wheel, and the transmission mechanism comprises a satellite wheel, which is toothed, which is rotatable about an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the first and second rotary elements and which is configured to engage the toothed wheel. Such an arrangement allows a simplified construction of the dose counter.

[0015] Advantageously, the first reliefs and the second reliefs each comprise two teeth configured to engage the satellite wheel. With such a construction, the drive of the satellite wheel by the first rotating element is improved.

[0016] Advantageously, the first series of digits represents a units digit of the numerical indication, and the second series of digits represents a tens digit of the numerical indication. Thus the numerical indication will be configured to indicate a number between 0 and 99.

[0017] Advantageously, the first rotating element and the second rotating element are coaxial. Such an arrangement allows a compact construction of the dose counter.

[0018] Advantageously, the direction of rotation of the first rotating element and the direction of rotation of the second rotating element are the same. Such an arrangement allows for simplified construction of the dose counter.

[0019] Advantageously, the dose counter comprises an end cover which is arranged so as to mask the numerical indication in the window when the second rotating element has been driven a second predefined number of times. The second predefined number is for example equal to the total number of doses of product intended to be dispensed received in the container. Thus, the user will be informed of the absence of product to be dispensed. Preferably, the second predefined number corresponds to the total quantity of doses of product present in the container from which five is subtracted. Such a construction makes it possible to consider variations in filling of the container. Advantageously, the housing comprises a cover and a base, the cover defining with the base an interior volume.

[0020] Advantageously, the first rotating element, the second rotating element and the transmission mechanism are carried by the housing, preferably by the base of the housing, and are housed in the interior volume of the housing.

[0021] Preferably, the lid includes the window. Preferably, the base includes a member for attachment to the mouth of the container.

[0022] Advantageously, the first rotating element and the second rotating element have a general disc shape. Such a construction makes it possible to make the dose counter more compact.

[0023] Advantageously, the second rotating element is transparent. This construction makes the dose counter more compact and improves the visibility of the numerical indication in the window.

[0024] Advantageously, the cover is carried by the second rotating element. Thus, the construction of the dose counter is simplified and avoids additional assembly and / or the addition of an additional mechanism.

[0025] Advantageously, the cover is carried by the second rotating element, while the second rotating element comprises an upper face and a lower face opposite the upper face, the lower face being in contact with the first rotating element, the second graduations being carried by the lower face. Such a construction makes it possible to make the dose counter more compact. Preferably, the cover is carried by the upper face. With such a construction, the production of the cover on the second rotating element is simplified.

[0026] Advantageously, the lower face of the second rotating element comprises an annular recess having a bottom, the bottom being located at a distance from the first rotating element, the second graduations being carried by the bottom of the annular recess. Thus the surface carrying the second graduations is not in direct contact with the first rotating element in order to avoid degradation of the second graduations during operation of the dose counter.

[0027] Advantageously, the first drive member comprises a first series of teeth configured to cooperate with an arm of the actuator. Such an arrangement allows the arm of the actuator to drive a tooth of the first series of teeth with each actuation. Preferably, the first series of teeth is arranged in the form of a ratchet wheel.

[0028] Advantageously, the dose counter comprises a non-return device configured to cooperate with the first drive member so as to allow rotation of the first rotary element only in a first direction of rotation. Such a construction makes it possible to limit rotations in an undesired direction of the first drive member which may cause rotation of the first rotary element independent of the actuation of the actuator, for example when the dispensing device provided with the dose counter is transported, and which may return erroneous information on the number of doses actually dispensed or remaining to be dispensed.

[0029] Advantageously, the first reliefs and second reliefs are positioned on the periphery of the first rotating element. Such a construction makes the dose counter simpler and more compact.

[0030] Advantageously, the third drive member comprises a series of teeth positioned on the periphery of the second rotating element. Preferably, the second rotating element is a toothed wheel. Such a construction makes the dose counter simpler and more compact.

[0031] Advantageously, a radial position of the first graduations on the first rotating element is different from a radial position of the second graduations on the second rotating element. Such an arrangement makes it easier to read the numerical indication.

[0032] Advantageously, a maximum radial distance of the first graduations on the first rotating element is less than a minimum radial distance of the second graduations on the second rotating element. Such an arrangement makes it easier to read the numerical indication.

[0033] Alternatively, the first rotating element and the second rotating element have a general shape of a hollow cylinder. Thus, the dose counter is arranged compactly.

[0034] Advantageously, the first drive member comprises a cam configured to cooperate with a pin of the actuator. Such a construction makes it possible to drive the first rotary element in rotation each time the actuator is actuation.

[0035] Advantageously, the first reliefs and second reliefs are positioned on an interior surface of the first rotary member.

[0036] Advantageously, the third drive member comprises a series of teeth positioned on an interior surface of the second rotary.

[0037] Advantageously, the transmission mechanism is located inside the first rotating element and the second rotating element.

[0038] Advantageously, the second rotating element comprises a transparent ring, which is integral with the second rotating element and which is configured to cover the first and second graduations, the priming cover being carried by the transparent ring.

[0039] Alternatively, the second rotatable member includes an axial protrusion configured to cover a digit of the first series of digits, the priming cover being carried by the axial protrusion.

[0040] The invention also relates to a dispensing device, which comprises: a dispensing member, comprising an actuator actuable by a user so as to deliver a predetermined dose of a product contained in a container, the dose counter as described previously, in which the numerical indication changes sequentially, each time the actuator is actuated.

[0041] Advantageously, the actuator is movable in translation along an actuation axis. Preferably, the actuator is locked in rotation along the actuation axis.

[0042] Advantageously, the coincident axes of the first rotary element and the second rotary element are orthogonal to the actuation axis. Alternatively, the coincident axes of the first rotary element and the second rotary element are parallel, preferably coaxial, to the actuation axis.

[0043] Advantageously, the dispensing member is a pump or a valve. A pump is understood to be a device capable of sucking and discharging a fluid. A valve is understood to be a device capable of selectively retaining and releasing a pressurized fluid. The valve is said to be "metering" if, during the action releasing the fluid, the quantity of fluid released is independent of the duration of actuation of the valve. The valve is said to be "continuous" if the quantity of fluid released depends on the duration of actuation of the valve.

[0044] Advantageously, the actuator is a mouthpiece, nasal piece or earpiece configured to deliver an aerosol, such as a spray, or a jet.

[0045] Alternatively, the actuator is a button.

[0046] The invention also relates to a dispensing assembly, which comprises: a container, which comprises a mouth and which contains a product, the dispensing device as defined previously, in which the dispensing device is secured to the mouth of the container, so as to dispense a predetermined dose of the product contained in the container each time the actuator is actuation.

[0047] Advantageously, the actuator is formed by the container. Preferably, the actuator is a pressurized container. The invention will be better understood, and other advantages thereof will appear more clearly in the light of the following description of an embodiment of a dose counter, a dispensing device and a dispensing assembly, in accordance with its principle, given solely by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0048] - [Fig 1] Figures 1a) and 1b) respectively represent a perspective and a partially exploded perspective of a dispensing assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, the dispensing assembly comprising a container, a cap and a dispensing device, also according to the invention.

[0049] - [Fig 2] Figure 2 is a perspective of the dispensing device, certain parts being hidden, the dispensing device comprising a dose counter according to the invention;

[0050] - [Fig 3] Figures 3a) and 3b) respectively represent an exploded perspective according to two opposite viewing angles, of the dose counter of Figure 2, the dose counter comprising two rotating elements;

[0051] - [Fig 4] Figures 4a), 4b) and 4c) represent the two rotating elements of Figure 2, shown in various configurations illustrating states of the dose counter during a priming phase;

[0052] - [Fig 5] Figures 5a), 5b) and 5c) represent the two rotating elements of Figure 2, shown in various configurations illustrating states of the dose counter during a phase of use;

[0053] - [Fig 6] Figures 6a) and 6b) represent the two rotating elements of Figure 2, shown in various configurations illustrating states of the dose counter during the use phase, and

[0054] - [Fig 7] Figures 7a) and 7b) represent the two rotating elements of Figure 2, shown in a final configuration of the dose counter.

[0055] - [Fig 8] Figures 8a) and 8b) respectively represent a perspective and a partially exploded perspective of a dispensing assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention, the dispensing assembly comprising a container and a dispensing device, also according to the invention.

[0056] - [Fig 9] Figures 9a) and 9b) respectively represent an exploded perspective according to two opposite viewing angles, of the distribution device of Figure 8, certain parts being hidden.

[0057] - [Fig 10] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a second rotating element according to an alternative to the second embodiment of the invention. A dispensing assembly 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 1. The dispensing assembly 10 comprises a container 12, here a bottle, which has a mouth 14. The container 12 is configured to be assembled to a dispensing device 20, the dispensing device 20 being secured to the mouth 14, for example by clipping, screwing or crimping. In Figure 1a), the dispensing assembly 10 is shown in an assembled configuration, while in Figure 1b), the dispensing assembly 10 is shown in partially exploded perspective, the dispensing device 20 being located at a distance from the container 12. The container 12 is configured to contain a product, in particular a liquid product, such as a solution or a suspension.The product contained in the container 12 is not shown. The product contained in the container 12 is advantageously a pharmaceutical product.

[0058] The products, in particular pharmaceutical products, which may be distributed by the distribution group are, for example, formulations containing at least one active ingredient such as peptides, proteins, hormones, active ingredients of biological origin such as, for example, inactivated live viruses, virus proteins, viral vectors and viral subunits, active ingredients based on nucleotides, such as, for example, DNA, RNA or oligonucleotides, active ingredients with a molecular weight up to 1500 Da, polysaccharides, vaccines, enzymes, antibodies, nutritional formulas or other active substances or their mixture.

[0059] The products, in particular pharmaceutical products, capable of being distributed by the distribution device 20 are, for example, formulations containing as active ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, midazolam, benzodiazepines, morphine, naloxone, sufentanil, fentanyl, epinephrine, adrenaline, ketamines including esketamine, norketamine, cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, decongestants, vasoconstrictors, nalmefene, salbutamol, ipratropium, montelukast, anesthetic agents, antihistamines, antiemetics, desmopressin, oxytocin, GnRH analogues, nafarelin, busurelin, calcitonin, insulin, sumatriptan, zolmitriptan, dihydroergotamine, metoclopramide, ondansetron, bevacizumab, zavegepant, nicotine, corticosteroids, steroids, sedatives, dexmedetomidine, ketorolac, lorazepam, lidocaine, azelastine, fluticasone,beclomethasone, butorphanol, ciclesonide, cocaine, cyanocobalamin, or xylocaine, diazepam, flunisolide, glucagon, metoclopramide, mometasone, olopatadine, oxymetazoline, tetracaine, testosterone, tetrahydrozoline, varenicline, budesonide, cromoglicic acid, triamcinolone, dexamethasone, lypressin, mupirocin, including their salts, hydrates, esters, isomers or any combination of these active ingredients.,

[0060] The dispensing device 20 comprises a dose counter 100, which is configured to give the user information, in particular a numerical indication, on a number of doses of the product dispensed or remaining to be dispensed by the dispensing device 20. The dose counter 100 comprises a housing 30, which is configured to be assembled to the container 12, more precisely to be secured to the mouth 14 of the container 12. In this example, the housing 30 comprises a base 32 and a cover 34, the base 32 and the cover 34 defining an interior volume. The housing 30, preferably the base 32, comprises a fixing member, not shown, to the mouth 14.

[0061] The dispensing device 20 comprises a dispensing member 22, which is here partially received in the housing 30 and which can be actuated by a user, so as to dispense a predetermined dose of the product contained in the container 12 each time the user actuates the dispensing member 22. In the example illustrated, the dispensing member 22 is a pump, which comprises an actuator 40 and a body 42. The dispensing device 20 is thus configured to dispense a predetermined dose of the product contained in the container 12 each time the actuator 40 is actuated by the user.

[0062] The actuator 40 is here a dispensing head, the body 42 being fixed to the housing 30, preferably by clipping, and protruding from the housing so as to extend into the container 12 when the dispensing device 20 is fixed to the container 12. In the illustrated example, the body 42 comprises a dip tube 43 by which the product to be dispensed is sucked into the dispensing member 22 from the container 12. The actuator 40 is movable relative to the rest of the pump, in particular relative to the body 42, so that a movement of the actuator 40 relative to the body 42 causes the dispensing of the product contained in the container 12. In the illustrated example, the body 42 is fixed to the housing 30, the actuator 40 protruding from the housing 30 so that a movement of the actuator 40 relative to the housing 30 causes the dispensing of the product. More precisely, the actuator 40 is movable in translation relative to the housing 30 along an actuation axis A40.The actuator 40 is here locked in rotation around the actuation axis A40 relative to the housing 30.

[0063] When the user does not press on the actuator 40, the actuator 40 is in a rest position relative to the body 42, and therefore relative to the housing 30. The dispensing device 22 generally comprises a return element, not visible in the figures, for example a spring, which tends to push the actuator 40 back towards its rest position. The return element is not shown. When the user actuates the actuator 40, generally by pressing along the actuation axis A40, the user moves the actuator 40 from its rest position to an activated position. Then, the user releases the actuator, which returns to its rest position by elastic return of the return element. Thus, each time the dispensing member 22 is activated, the actuator 40 performs an activation movement relative to the body 42, the activation movement being a back and forth between the rest position and the activated position along the actuation axis A40.The activation movement is represented here by a double arrow F40.

[0064] The actuator 40 here comprises a dispensing orifice 44, through which the dispensed product exits, in a general direction defining a dispensing axis A44.

[0065] The actuator 40 is here a push-button type tip, configured to deliver one or more doses of the product contained in the container 12 in the form of an aerosol, such as a spray, or a jet, for oral or cutaneous application. By aerosol, we mean a suspension in the air of droplets. A spray designates an aerosol sprayed around the dispensing axis A44 and having a substantially conical shape, with a relatively wide half-angle at the apex, that is to say typically between 20 degrees and 60 degrees. The expression “between... and... ” must be understood as including the limits of the interval thus defined.

[0066] A jet means an aerosol sprayed around the distribution axis A44 and having a substantially conical shape, with a relatively narrow half-angle at the apex, i.e. typically less than 20 degrees, or in a substantially linear direction.

[0067] In a variant not shown, the actuator 40 is a nasal nozzle configured to deliver an aerosol, such as a spray, or a jet into a nostril.

[0068] Typically, the container 12 comprises several doses of the product to be dispensed, depending on the size of the container, the type of product contained in the container, the dispensing member 22, etc. By way of illustration, in the illustrated example the container 12 is configured to contain 10 milliliters of product, while the dispensing member 22 is configured to dispense doses of 100 microliters. In other words the container 12 is here configured to contain up to 100 doses of the product to be dispensed.

[0069] In the example of Figure 1, only a display of the dose counter 100 is visible, through a viewing window 302 provided on the housing 30. In this example, the window is provided on the cover 34. In Figure 2, the dispensing device 20 is partially shown, the cover 34 being omitted to reveal the rest of the dispensing device 20, in particular to reveal certain elements of the dose counter 100 and the dispensing member 22 housed in the interior volume of the housing 30. In Figure 3, only the actuator 40, the base 32, and certain elements of the dose counter 100 are shown.

[0070] For example, the dose counter 100 indicates to the user a numerical indication which decreases sequentially each time the user actuates the dispensing member 22, that is to say indicating to the user the number of doses remaining in the container 12. Alternatively, the dose counter 100 gives the user a numerical indication, which increases sequentially each time the user actuates the dispensing member 22, indicating to the user the number of doses dispensed. More generally, the numerical indication given by the dose counter 100 evolves sequentially, each time the actuator 40 is actuated.

[0071] Advantageously, the dispensing assembly 10 comprises a cap 26. The cap 26 is removable and is attached to the housing 30 in a reversible manner, the cap 26 being configured to cover the actuator 40, so as to prevent involuntary actuation of the dispensing member 22. In the example illustrated, the cap 26 is attached by screwing to the housing 30, more precisely to the cover 34 of the housing 30. In variants not shown, the cap can be attached by clipping or by clamping on the housing 30.

[0072] The distribution device 20 is now detailed with reference to FIG. 3.

[0073] The dose counter 100 comprises a first rotating element 110, a second rotating element 120 and a transmission mechanism 130. In the illustrated example, the first rotating element 110, the second rotating element 120 and the transmission mechanism 130 are mounted on the base 32.

[0074] In the first embodiment, the first rotating element 110 has a general disc shape centered on a main axis A110. The first rotating element 110 comprises a front face 111 A, which is oriented towards the user when the user looks at the dose counter 100 through the viewing window 302, and a rear face 111 B, oriented away from the front face 111 A. The front face 111 A of the first rotating element 110 is visible in FIG. 3a), while the rear face 111 B is visible in FIG. 3b).

[0075] More generally, the front face 111A of the first rotary element 110 extends perpendicular to a front direction of the dose counter 100. By extension, the main axis A110 of the first rotary element 110 is also considered as the main axis A110 for the other elements of the dose counter 100.

[0076] The base 32 comprises a protrusion 141, which has a substantially planar shape and which extends generally in a plane orthogonal to the main axis A110. The protrusion 141 comprises a hub 142 defining an axis, which extends projecting relative to the protrusion 141, the main axis A110 being aligned with the axis of the hub 142. The first rotary element 110 has a central orifice which cooperates with the hub 142, in particular by complementarity of shapes, so that the first rotary element 110 is movable in rotation relative to the protrusion 141 around the main axis A110. The first rotary element 110 has first graduations 112. The first graduations 112 are here in the form of a first series of numbers which are distributed angularly, around the main axis A110, on the first rotary element 110, preferably on the front face 111A of the first rotary element 110.In particular, the first graduations 112 here consist of 10 digits from “0” to “9”, and are distributed regularly around the main axis A110, with an angular difference between two adjacent digits equal to 36 degrees, preferably substantially equal to 36 degrees.

[0077] In the illustrated example, the first rotary element 110 is made of an opaque material, preferably a thermoplastic polymer material, and obtained by an injection molding process. The first graduations 112 are for example inscribed in hollow, in other words engraved, on the front face 111A of the first rotary element 110 or else printed on the front face 111A of the first rotary element 110. In the illustrated example, the first graduations 112 are colored so as to be contrasted with the rest of the first rotary element 110.

[0078] The first rotary element 110 comprises a first drive member 116, which is configured to cooperate with the actuator 40 of the dispensing member 22, so that the first rotary element 110 rotates through a first predefined angle R110, around the main axis A110, each time the actuator 40 is actuated. In the illustrated example, the first drive member 116 comprises a first series of teeth, which are here arranged in the form of a ratchet wheel and which are here provided projecting from the rear face 111B of the first rotary element 110, the ratchet wheel being centered on the main axis A110 and being configured to cooperate with a free end of an arm 46 of the actuator 40. The arm 46 is in this example a flexible arm comprising a free end and an end attached to the rest of the actuator 40. In the example, the arm 46 extends mainly along the actuation axis A40.It is understood that the first predefined angle R110 is in particular a function of the number of teeth of the ratchet wheel. In the example illustrated, the ratchet wheel comprises as many teeth as the first graduations 112 comprise numbers, i.e. here 10 teeth. The first predefined angle R110 is therefore here equal to 36 degrees, preferably substantially equal to 36 degrees. Each tooth of the first series of teeth, i.e. of the ratchet wheel, comprises a stop surface configured to abut against the free end of the arm 46 so that when the actuator 40, and therefore the arm 46, passes from the rest position to the activated position according to a movement along the actuation axis A40, the arm 46 transmits a force via its free end to one of the teeth of the first series of teeth, thus driving the first rotary element 110 in rotation along the main axis A110.Each tooth of the first series of teeth also comprises a ramp configured so that the free end of the arm 46 slides on the ramp so that when the actuator 40, and therefore the arm 46, passes from the activated position to the rest position, the first element 110 is not rotated by the arm 46. During this step, the arm 46 deforms and the free end of the arm 46 is offset in a direction perpendicular to the actuation axis A40. In a variant not shown, the stop surface and the ramp of the first series of teeth are reversed, so that the arm 46 rotates the first rotary element when the actuator passes from the activated position to the rest position, and so that the free end of the arm 46 slides on the ramp when the actuator passes from the rest position to the activated position.

[0079] The base 32 advantageously comprises a groove 144 formed in the protrusion 141, the groove 144 here having a substantially rectilinear shape and receiving the free end of the arm 46 of the actuator 40, so as to guide the free end of the arm 46 during the activation movements F40 of the actuator 40. The groove 144 has a widened intermediate portion 145, which allows a movement of the free end of the arm 46 in a direction transverse to the groove 144, in particular when the free end of the arm 46 slides on one of the ramps of the teeth of the first series of teeth of the first drive member 116.

[0080] The base 32 advantageously comprises a non-return device 146, which is here carried by the protrusion 141 and which is here produced by a lug located at the end of an elastic tab, the non-return device 146 being configured to cooperate with the first drive member 116 so as to allow the rotation of the first rotary element 110 in a first direction of rotation R1 around the main axis A110, and to limit the rotation of the first rotary element 110 in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation.

[0081] Thus, each time the user actuates the actuator 40 and moves the actuator 40 from the rest position to the activated position, the free end of the arm 46 of the actuator 40 circulates in the groove 144 and cooperates with one of the teeth of the first drive member 116, rotating the first rotary element 110 in the first direction of rotation R 1 , by an angle equal to the angular distance between two consecutive teeth of the first series of teeth formed by the ratchet wheel.

[0082] When the user releases the actuator 40 and allows the actuator 40 to return to the rest position, the non-return device 146 prevents the first rotary element 110 from rotating in the second direction of rotation. During the return movement of the actuator 40, the arm 46 elastically deforms when the free end slides on the ramp and moves in the widened portion 145 of the groove 144. The first rotary element 110 also comprises a second drive member 118, which is configured to cooperate with the transmission mechanism 130. In the first embodiment, the transmission mechanism 130 comprises a planetary wheel 132, which is toothed and which is rotatably mounted on the base 32, about an axis parallel to the main axis A110. More precisely, the planetary wheel 132 is rotatably mounted on the protrusion 141 of the base 32.

[0083] The second drive member 118 comprises first reliefs 119A. Preferably, the first reliefs 119A are teeth, in particular the first reliefs here consist of two teeth separated by a notch. The first reliefs 119A are here provided on a periphery of the first rotary element 110 and are configured to engage the transmission mechanism 130, more precisely to engage the teeth of the satellite wheel 132. Each time the first rotary element 110 makes a complete revolution, that is to say a rotation of 360 degrees, the first reliefs 119A of the second drive member 118 cooperate with the transmission mechanism 130, driving the transmission mechanism 130 in rotation by an angle equal to a predefined transmission angle R130.

[0084] The second drive member 118 also comprises second reliefs 119B. The second reliefs 119B are different from the first reliefs 119A. The second reliefs 119B are arranged on the periphery of the first rotary element 110 and are configured to engage the transmission mechanism 130, more precisely to engage the teeth of the satellite wheel 132. The second reliefs 119B are here teeth, in particular the second reliefs 119B are here constituted by two teeth separated by a notch. The second reliefs 119B preferably have a shape similar to, or even identical to, the first reliefs 119A. Each time the first rotating element 110 makes a complete revolution, i.e. 360 degrees, the second reliefs 119B of the second drive member 118 cooperate with the transmission mechanism 130, driving the transmission mechanism 130 to rotate through an angle equal to the predefined transmission angle R130.In the example shown, the transmission angle R130 is equal to 90 degrees.

[0085] It is thus understood that during each complete revolution of the first rotary element 110, the second drive member 118 cooperates twice with the transmission mechanism 130, via the first reliefs 119A and via the second reliefs 119B.

[0086] The second reliefs 119B are angularly separated from the first reliefs 119A by an angular difference equal to the product of the first predefined angle R110 by a first predefined number N1, the first number N1 being a positive and non-zero integer. In other words, the angular difference between the first reliefs 119A and the second reliefs 119B is directly a function of the first number N1. In the example illustrated, the first number N1 is equal to 4.

[0087] Preferably, the second drive member 118 is configured so that the transmission mechanism 130 is driven in rotation only when passing the first reliefs 119A and second reliefs 119B. The first rotary element 110 advantageously comprises a blocking relief 119C, which blocks the transmission mechanism 130 when the first reliefs 119A and second reliefs 119B do not cooperate with the transmission mechanism 130. This reduces the risks of the numerical indication of the dose counter changing unexpectedly, for example the distribution assembly 10 is subjected to vibrations while the actuator 40 is not being used. The dose counter 100 is thus secure and reliable.

[0088] In the illustrated example, the locking relief 119C is formed by a crown, which is located behind the first reliefs 119A and second reliefs 119B and which comprises two notches 119D, which are angularly aligned with the notches of the first reliefs 119A and second reliefs 119B. Each of the first reliefs 119A and second reliefs 119B is thus associated with a corresponding notch 119D. When the first reliefs 119A or second reliefs 119B cooperate with the teeth of the satellite wheel 132, the teeth of the satellite wheel 132 are received in the corresponding notch 119D at the locking relief 119C, the rotation of the satellite wheel 132 then not being prevented by the locking relief 119C. When the first reliefs 119A or second reliefs 119B do not cooperate with the teeth of the satellite wheel 132, the rotation of the satellite wheel 132 is prevented by the crown forming the blocking relief 119C.

[0089] In the first embodiment, the second rotary element 120 has a general disc shape centered on the main axis A110. The second rotary element 120 has a central orifice which cooperates with the hub 142, in particular by complementarity of shapes, so that the second rotary element 120 is movable in rotation relative to the protrusion 141 around the main axis A110. Thus, as in the illustrated example, the first rotary element 110 and the second rotary element 120 are advantageously stacked on the hub 142, in other words are coaxial, the dose counter 100 thus being more compact. According to a variant not shown, the hub 142 advantageously comprises a retaining element, which is configured to hold together the stack of the first rotary element 110 and the second rotary element 120.

[0090] In another variant not shown, the second rotary element 120 is centered on an axis which is parallel to the main axis A110 and located at a distance from the main axis A110.

[0091] The second rotary element 120 is arranged opposite the front face 111A of the first rotary element 110. More specifically, the second rotary element 120 comprises an upper face 121A, which is oriented towards the user when the user looks at the dose counter 100 through the viewing window 302 when the dispensing device 20 is assembled, and a lower face 121B, oriented opposite the upper face 121A. The upper face 121A of the second rotary element 120 is visible in FIG. 3a), while the lower face 121B is visible in FIG. 3b). Thus the lower face 121 B of the second rotary element 120 is oriented towards the front face 111 A of the first rotary element 110, that is to say towards the rear of the dose counter 100. In the example illustrated, the lower face 121 B of the second rotary element 120 is in contact with the front face 111 A of the first rotary element 110.

[0092] In the illustrated example, the second rotary element 120 is located, relative to the user observing the window 302 when the dispensing device 20 is assembled, in front of the first rotary element 110. The second rotary element 120 is advantageously transparent, so that the user can see the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 through the second rotary element 120. In this example, the second rotary element 120 is made of a transparent material, preferably a thermoplastic polymer material, for example from the polystyrene or polycarbonate family, by an injection molding process.

[0093] The second rotary element 120 has second graduations 122. The second graduations 122 are here in the form of a second series of numbers which are distributed angularly, around the main axis A110, on the second rotary element 120.

[0094] The first rotary element 110 and the second rotary element 120 cooperate to indicate together, by means of the first graduations 112 and the second graduations 122, a numerical indication on a number of doses dispensed or remaining to be dispensed by the dispensing device 20, the first rotary element 110 and the second rotary element 120 being arranged so that the numerical indication is visible through the viewing window 302 of the housing 30. In the example illustrated, the numerical indication indicates the number of doses remaining to be dispensed by the dispensing device 20.

[0095] Preferably, a radial position of the first graduations 112 on the first rotary element 110 is different from a radial position of the second graduations 122 on the second rotary element 120, so that the first graduations 112 and second graduations 122 are not superimposed along the main axis A110, thus facilitating the reading of the numerical indication.

[0096] Preferably, the maximum radial distance of the first graduations 112 on the first rotary element 110 is less than the minimum radial distance of the second graduations 122 on the second rotary element 120. In Figures 4 to 7a), the first rotary element 110 and the second rotary element

[0097] 120 are shown side by side, to facilitate reading of the drawings, an outline of the viewing window 302 being drawn superimposed on each of the first rotating element 110 and second rotating element 120.

[0098] Thus, for example with reference to Figure 5a), a graduation of the second graduations 122, here the number “8”, is located on the left of the display window 302, while a graduation of the first graduations 112, here the number “5”, is located on the right of the display window 302. It is understood that the first graduations 112 form a units digit of the numerical indication of the dose counter 100, while the second graduations 122 form a tens digit of the numerical indication. In other words, the first series of digits represents the units digit of the number of doses and the second series of digits represents the tens digit of the number of doses. In the example of Figure 5a), the numerical indication is therefore “85”. Since the priming has not yet been carried out in the step corresponding to this figure, the numerical indication is hidden from the user.

[0099] In Figure 7b), the first rotating element 110 and the second rotating element 120 are shown in an assembled state in the dispensing device 20, i.e. the second rotating element 120 is located in front of the first rotating element 120, the upper face 121A being oriented towards the user.

[0100] Preferably, the second graduations 122 are carried by the lower surface

[0101] 121 B, so that the second graduations 122 are substantially located in the same plane as the first graduations 112, which facilitates the visual accommodation of the user and thus the visibility of the numerical indication.

[0102] Preferably, the lower face 121 B of the second rotary element 120 comprises an annular recess having a bottom 124, the second graduations 122 being carried by the bottom 124 of the annular recess as visible in FIG. 3b). This arrangement limits the direct friction of the second graduations on the front face 111A of the first rotary element 110 and thus avoids potential degradation of the second graduations during use of the dose counter 100.

[0103] The second rotary element 120 also comprises a third drive member 128. The transmission mechanism 130, here the satellite wheel 132, is configured to cooperate with the third drive member 128 so as to rotate the second rotary element 120 by a second predefined angle R120 each time the transmission mechanism 130 is driven by the second drive member 118. More precisely, at each rotation of the satellite wheel 132, induced by the first reliefs 119A or the second reliefs 119B of the second drive member 118, the second rotary element 120 is rotated by the second predefined angle R120.

[0104] The third drive member 128 is advantageously configured so that the transmission mechanism 130 is in continuous engagement with the second rotary element 120. In other words, when the transmission mechanism 130 is stationary relative to the protrusion 141, then the second rotary element 120 is blocked in rotation because the transmission mechanism 130 is also blocked in rotation, whereas when the transmission mechanism 130 pivots relative to the protrusion 141, for example when the transmission mechanism 130 is rotated by the first reliefs 119A or the second reliefs 119B of the first rotary element 110, then the second rotary element 120 is rotated by means of the transmission mechanism 130, here the satellite wheel 132.

[0105] In the illustrated example, the third drive member 128 is formed by a series of circumferential teeth, which are arranged on the periphery of the second rotary element 120. In other words, the second rotary element 120 here forms a toothed wheel, the transmission mechanism 130, here the satellite wheel 132, being configured to drive the toothed wheel formed by the second rotary element 120. In the first embodiment of the invention, the ends of the teeth of the third drive member 128 are oriented opposite the main axis A110. Advantageously, the diameters of the pitch circles of the toothed wheel forming the second rotary element 120 and of the toothed wheel forming the satellite wheel 132 are arranged so that the second predefined angle R120 is equal to half of the first predefined angle R110, that is, in the example illustrated, so that the second predefined angle R120 is equal to 18 degrees, preferably substantially equal to 18 degrees.In other words, in the illustrated example, a reduction ratio between the satellite wheel 132 and the second rotating element 120 is equal to 18 degrees divided by 90 degrees, or 0.2.

[0106] The teeth of the third drive member 128 advantageously have a shape similar, preferably identical, to the teeth of the second drive members 118 of the first rotary element 110.

[0107] As mentioned previously, during each complete revolution of the first rotary element 110, the second drive member 118 cooperates twice with the transmission mechanism 130, via the first reliefs 119A and via the second reliefs 119B. However, the number of tens displayed on the numerical indication must only change once per revolution of the first rotary element. Thus, certain digits of the second graduation 122 are entered twice, that is to say duplicated. In other words, at least two adjacent digits of the second series of digits of the second graduation 122 are identical.

[0108] Advantageously, the third drive member 128 also comprises a stop 129, which is here produced by filling a space between two consecutive teeth of the third drive member. The stop 129 is arranged so as to block the transmission mechanism 130 when the dose counter 100, and by extension the dispensing device 20 and the dispensing assembly 10, are in a terminal configuration, in which all of the planned doses have already been dispensed.

[0109] Before the first use of the dispensing assembly 10, the user receives the assembled dispensing assembly 10. The dispensing member 20 is empty, in a so-called initial configuration. The dose counter 100 is also in an initial configuration.

[0110] The user must then follow a procedure for priming the dispensing member 22, which consists of actuating the actuator 40 a predefined number of times, in other words a number of times equal to a second predefined number N2, until the dispensing member 22 is in a primed configuration, in which each subsequent actuation of the actuator 40 will make it possible to deliver the expected dose of the product, in the situation where there is still product in the container 12. The second number N2 depends in particular on the type and size of the dispensing member 22. The second number N2 is a non-zero positive integer. In the example illustrated, the second number N2 is between 1 and 10, preferably between 4 and 6.

[0111] The second rotary element 120 comprises a priming cover 150. The priming cover 150 is here an opaque surface, which is arranged on the second rotary element 120. The priming cover 150 here has a trapezoidal shape. The priming cover 150 is arranged so as to mask the numerical indication in the window 302 when the dispensing device 20 is in the initial configuration, and as long as the user has not completed the priming procedure, that is to say before the second predefined number N2 of actuation of the actuator 40.

[0112] In other words, the boot cache 150 is arranged to mask the numerical indication in the window 302 as long as the first rotating element 110 rotates by the first predefined angle R110 a predefined number of times. In the example illustrated, the predefined number of times is equal to the first number N1.

[0113] Advantageously, the boot cover 150 has a solid color, for example green or yellow, which allows the user to understand that he must carry out the boot procedure. Optionally, the boot cover 150 has a pattern. The second number N2 is less than or equal to the first number N1, in other words, the number of actuations necessary for the boot procedure is less than or equal to the first number N1. Preferably, the second number N2 is equal to the first number N1.

[0114] The priming cover 150 is preferably carried by the upper face 121 A of the second rotary element 120, so as to be as close as possible to the viewing window 302 when the dispensing device is assembled, promoting the masking of the numerical indication. In a variant not shown, the priming cover 150 is carried by the lower face 121 B of the second rotary element 120. The priming cover is for example produced by screen printing or pad printing. Alternatively or in addition, the priming cover is produced by a more granular surface state locally reducing the transparency of the second rotary element 120.

[0115] The second rotary element 120 advantageously comprises an end cover 152. The end cover 152 is here an opaque surface, which is provided on the second rotary element 120. The end cover 152 is here arranged so as to partially block the viewing window 302 when there are between 1 and 9 usable doses remaining in the dispensing assembly 10, only the first graduations 112 remaining visible. The end cover 152 is also arranged so as to completely, or almost completely, block the viewing window 302, to indicate to the user that the number of doses dispensed is close to the capacity of the container 12, or that the number of doses remaining to be dispensed is close to 0.

[0116] The terminal cover 152 is here an opaque surface, which is arranged on the second rotary element 120, preferably on the upper face 121A of the second rotary element 120. Advantageously, the terminal cover 152 has a solid color, for example red, which allows the user to understand that the distribution assembly 10 is no longer usable. Advantageously, the terminal cover 152 is arranged on the same surface as the priming cover 150.

[0117] The operation of the dose counter 100 will now be described with reference to Figures 4 to 7.

[0118] In Figure 4a), the dose counter 100 is in the initial configuration. Preferably, the initial configuration corresponds to a configuration of the dose counter 100 once assembled. The priming cover 150 covers most of the viewing window 302 and therefore masks the numerical indication. The number “9” of the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 is aligned with the viewing window 302, but this number “9” is not visible, because it is masked by the priming cover 150. The blocking relief 119C of the first rotary element 110 blocks the transmission mechanism 130, and thus blocks the second rotary element 120.

[0119] Between the initial configuration of figure 4a) and the configuration of figure 4b), the user actuates the actuator 40 once, which results in the rotation of the first rotary element 110 by an angle equal to once the first predefined angle R110, here 36 degrees. However, none of the first reliefs 119A or second reliefs 119B has yet cooperated with the transmission mechanism 130, which has therefore remained stationary. Conversely, the blocking relief 119C of the first rotary element 110 still blocks the transmission mechanism 130, and thus blocks the second rotary element 120. The priming cover 150 still covers most of the viewing window 302.

[0120] In the example illustrated, the dose counter 100 is a retrograde counter, which indicates, once the priming procedure is complete and the numerical indication is visible, the number of doses remaining to be dispensed in the container 12. The number of the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 aligned with the viewing window 302, previously equal to “9”, is now equal to “8”, but this number “8” is not visible, because it is still masked by the priming cover 150.

[0121] Between the configuration of figure 4b) and the configuration of figure 4c), the user actuates the actuator 40 twice, which results in the rotation of the first rotary element 110 by an angle equal to twice the first predefined angle R110, the reference R110 being represented twice.

[0122] As previously, during the two activations by the user, none of the first reliefs 119A or second reliefs 119B cooperated with the transmission mechanism 130, which remained stationary. Conversely, the blocking relief 119C of the first rotary element 110 still blocks the transmission mechanism 130, and thus blocks the second rotary element 120. The priming cover 150 still covers most of the viewing window 302. The number of the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 aligned with the viewing window 302, previously equal to “8”, is now equal to “6”, but this number “6” is still not visible, because it is masked by the priming cover 150.

[0123] Between the configuration of Figure 4c) and the configuration of Figure 5a), the user actuates the actuator 40 once, which results in the rotation of the first rotary element 110 by an angle equal to once the first predefined angle R110. The number of the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 aligned with the viewing window 132, equal to “6” previously, is now equal to “5”. During this activation by the user, the second reliefs 119B of the second drive member 118 cooperate with the transmission mechanism 130, which cooperates with the third drive member 128 of the second rotary element 120, so as to rotate the second rotary element 120 by an angle equal to the second predefined angle R120, here 18 degrees. After this rotation, the boot cache 150 is no longer aligned with the window 302.Whereas previously the boot cover 150 was aligned with the viewing window 302, now the number "8" of the second graduations 122 of the second rotary 120, aligned with the viewing window 302, is visible.

[0124] In other words, the viewing window 302 is no longer masked by the priming cover 150, and the user can see on the viewing window 302 the numerical indication, here the number “85”, which indicates to the user both that the priming procedure is complete, and that there are 85 doses remaining to be dispensed by the dispensing assembly 10.

[0125] In the example illustrated, between the initial configuration of figure 4a) and the configuration of figure 5a), the user has actuated the actuator 40 a number of times equal to the second number N2, which here is equal to 4.

[0126] The number of actuations required for priming is less than or equal to the first number N1. As a corollary, it is understood that the number of actuations required for priming is adjustable, on the dose counter 100, by changing the first number N1, in other words by changing the angular distance between the first reliefs 119A and the second reliefs 119B.

[0127] Between the configuration of Figure 5a) and the configuration of Figure 5b), the user actuates the actuator 40 five times. The number of the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 aligned with the viewing window 302, equal to “5” in Figure 5a), is equal to “0” in Figure 5b). Since none of the first reliefs 119A or second reliefs 119B have cooperated with the transmission mechanism 130, the transmission mechanism 130 as well as the second rotary element 120 have remained stationary. The number of the second graduations 122 aligned with the viewing window 302 is therefore always “8”, the numerical indication visible on the viewing window 302 is therefore “80”.

[0128] Between the configuration of Figure 5b) and the configuration of Figure 5c), the user actuates the actuator 40 once. The number of the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 aligned with the viewing window 302, equal to “0” in Figure 5b), is equal to “9” in Figure 5c). During this activation by the user, the first reliefs 119A of the second drive member 118 cooperate with the transmission mechanism 130, which cooperates with the third drive member 128 of the second rotary element 120, so as to rotate the second rotary element 120 by an angle equal to the second predefined angle R120. As a result, the number of the second graduations 122 of the second rotary element 120 aligned with the viewing window 302 is the number “7”. In other words, the numerical indication visible on the viewing window 302 is “79”.

[0129] Between the configuration of Figure 5c) and the configuration of Figure 6a), the user actuates the actuator 40 three times. The number of the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 aligned with the viewing window 302, equal to “9” in Figure 5c), is equal to “6” in Figure 6a). Since none of the first reliefs 119A or second reliefs 119B have cooperated with the transmission mechanism 130, the transmission mechanism 130 as well as the second rotary element 120 have remained stationary. As illustrated in Figure 6a), the number of the second graduations 122 aligned with the viewing window 302 is always “7”, the numerical indication visible on the viewing window 302 being “76”.

[0130] Between the configuration of figure 6a) and the configuration of figure 6b), the user actuates the actuator 40 once. The number of the first graduations 112 of the first rotary element 110 aligned with the viewing window 302, equal to “6” in figure 6a), is equal to “5” in figure 6b).

[0131] During this activation by the user, the second reliefs 119B of the second drive member 118 cooperate with the transmission mechanism 130, which cooperates with the third drive member 128 of the second rotary element 120, so as to rotate the second rotary element 120 by an angle equal to the second predefined angle R120.

[0132] Now the number “7” of the second graduations 122 of the second rotary 120 is duplicated. In Figure 6a), the first of the two “7”s is aligned with the viewing window 302, while in Figure 6b), the second of the two “7”s is aligned with the window 302. As a result, the numerical indication visible in Figure 6b) is “75”.

[0133] As the user continues to operate the actuator 40, the numerical indication visible through the viewing window 302 continues to evolve sequentially.

[0134] Each time the user has actuated the actuator 40 ten times, the first rotary element 110 makes a complete revolution, and each of the first reliefs 119A and second reliefs 119B cooperates with the transmission mechanism, each time driving the second rotary element 120 by an angle equal to the second predefined angle R120. In other words, each time the first rotary element 110 makes a complete revolution, the second rotary element 120 is driven twice by an angle equal to the second predefined angle R120. In the example illustrated, all the digits of the second series of digits of the second graduations 122 between "1" and "7" are advantageously duplicated. More generally, all the digits of the second series of digits of the second graduations 122, lower than the digit of the second series of digits when the priming procedure is finished, here the "8", are advantageously duplicated.

[0135] In Figures 7a) and 7b), the dose counter 100 is in the terminal configuration. The terminal cover 152 closes the viewing window 302, no numerical indication then being visible. In addition, the stop 129 blocks the transmission mechanism 130. In doing so, any further actuation according to the movement F40 of the actuator 40 by the user is prevented, the first reliefs 119A being prevented from cooperating with the transmission mechanism 130. The first rotary element 110 is thus blocked, in turn blocking the free end of the arm 46.

[0136] In a variant not shown, the arm cooperating with the first drive member is carried by a transmission element, different from the actuator.

[0137] A distribution assembly 11 according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 8 and 9. In the second embodiment, elements similar to those of the first embodiment bear the same references and operate in the same way. In the following, the differences between the first and second embodiments are mainly described.

[0138] In this embodiment, the dispensing device 20 comprises an actuator 400, a dose counter 200 with a first rotary element 210 and a second rotary element 220 of generally hollow cylinder shape. The remainder of the dose counter mechanism is advantageously housed inside the first rotary element 210 and the second rotary element 220. Thus, the dose counter 200 is particularly compact.

[0139] The first rotary element 210 and the second rotary element 220 are coaxial along a main axis A210 and mounted around a hub 242 carried by the base 32. In this embodiment, the main axis A210 is parallel, preferably coincident with the actuation axis A40.

[0140] The first drive member 116, the second drive member 118 carried by the first rotary element 210 are carried by an inner surface of the hollow cylinder formed by the first rotary element 210.

[0141] In this embodiment, the transmission mechanism 130 is formed by a toothed wheel 230 located inside the first rotating element 210 and second rotating element 220.

[0142] The third drive member 128 is carried by an inner surface of the hollow cylinder formed by the second rotary element 220. In other words, in the second embodiment of the invention, the third drive member 128 comprises a series of circumferential teeth, which forms a toothed wheel, the ends of the teeth being oriented towards the main axis A110.

[0143] The first drive member 116 here comprises a cam provided with two paths, while the actuator 400 here comprises pins 402, the cam being configured to cooperate with each pin 402 of the actuator 400 so that when the pins 402 slide in the paths of the cam, the first rotary element 210 is rotated by the first predefined angle R110. The number of pins 402 is not limiting. In a variant not shown, the actuator 400 comprises only a single pin 402, the configuration with several pins being preferred however because it reduces the risks of blocking the dose counter 200. The pins 402 are preferably regularly distributed around the actuation axis A40.

[0144] In a variant not shown, the pin(s) 402 cooperating with the first drive member 116 are carried by a transmission element different from the actuator 400.

[0145] In this embodiment of the invention, the dose counter 200 comprises a ring 249, which is a separate part from the second rotary element 220. In the example illustrated, the ring 249 is advantageously made of a transparent material and which comprises an opaque portion, forming a priming cover 250. The opaque portion is for example manufactured by applying an opaque coating to the transparent ring 249, by screen printing or pad printing. The ring 249 is secured to the second rotary element 220, here by clipping, so as to form the priming cover 250.

[0146] In the alternative to the second embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, a priming cover 350 formed by an axial protrusion 352 formed on a second rotating element 320 and configured to mask the first graduations 112 of the first rotating element 210. In this example, a surface exterior to the protrusion 352 is colored. In this alternative, the dose counter does not include a ring.

[0147] In the illustrated embodiments, the dose counter 100 or 200 is decreasing, that is to say that once the priming procedure has been carried out, the dose counter indicates to the user the number of doses remaining to be dispensed by the dispensing assembly 10 or 11.

[0148] The principles of the invention can of course be implemented for an increasing dose counter, in which the dose counter indicates zero once the priming procedure has been carried out, the dose counter indicating to the user the number of doses delivered after the priming procedure.

[0149] The embodiments and variations mentioned above can be combined with each other to generate new embodiments of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Dose counter (100; 200) for a device (20) for dispensing several doses of a product, in particular a pharmaceutical product, the dose counter comprising a first rotary element (110; 210) having first graduations (112) in the form of a first series of numbers distributed angularly on the first rotary element (110; 210), the first rotary element (110; 210) comprising a first drive member (116) and a second drive member (118), the first drive member (116) being configured to cooperate with an actuator (40; 400) of the dispensing device (20) so that the first rotary element (110; 210) is driven in rotation each time the actuator (40; 400) is actuation, and the second drive member (118) comprising first reliefs (119A), the dose counter (100; 200) comprising a second rotary element (120; 220;320), which has second graduations (122) in the form of a second series of numbers distributed angularly on the second rotary element (120; 220; 320), and which comprises a third drive member (128), the dose counter comprising a transmission mechanism (130) configured to cooperate jointly with the first reliefs (119A) of the second drive member (118) once per revolution of the first rotary element (110; 210) and with the third drive member (128) of the second rotary element (120; 220; 320), so as to rotate the second rotary element (120; 220; 320) each time the first reliefs (119A) of the second drive member (118) cooperate with the transmission mechanism (130), the first rotary element (110; 210) and the second rotating element (120; 220;320) cooperating to indicate together, by means of the first and second graduations (112, 122), a numerical indication on a number of doses dispensed or remaining to be dispensed by the dispensing device (20), the first rotary element (110; 210) and the second rotary element (120; 220; 320) being arranged so that the numerical indication is visible through a window (302) of a housing (30) of the dose counter (100, 200), the dose counter (100; 200) being characterized in that the second drive member (118) comprises second reliefs (119B), which are different from the first reliefs (119A), the second reliefs (119B) being configured to cooperate with the transmission mechanism (130), once per revolution of the first rotary element (110; 210), so as to rotate the second rotary element (120; 220); in that at least two adjacent digits of the second series of digits are identical, and in that the dose counter (100; 200) comprises a priming cover (150; 250, 350), which is arranged so as to mask the numerical indication in the window (302) as long as the second rotating element (120; 220; 320) has not been rotated at least once.

2. Dose counter (100; 200) according to claim 1, wherein an axis of rotation (A110; A210) of the first rotary element (110, 210) and an axis of rotation of the second rotary element (120, 220; 320) are parallel to each other, wherein the third drive member (128) comprises a series of circumferential teeth forming a toothed wheel, and wherein the transmission mechanism (130) comprises a toothed planet wheel (132; 230) rotating about an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the first and second rotary elements and configured to engage the toothed wheel.

3. Dose counter (100; 200) according to claim 2, in which the first reliefs (119A) and the second reliefs (119B) each comprise two teeth configured to engage the satellite wheel (132; 230).

4. Dose counter (100; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5. 3, wherein the first series of digits of the first graduations (112) represents a units digit of the numerical indication, and the second series of digits of the second graduations (122) represents a tens digit of the numerical indication.

5. Dose counter (100; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5. 4, wherein the first rotating element (110; 210) and the second rotating element (120; 220) are coaxial.

6. Dose counter (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first rotating element (110) and the second rotating element (120) have a general disc shape.

7. Dose counter (100) according to claim 6, wherein the second rotating element (120) is transparent.

8. Dose counter (100) according to claim 7, wherein the cover (150, 350) is carried by the second rotary element (120; 320), the second rotary element (120) comprising an upper face (121 A) and a lower face (121 B) opposite the face upper, the lower face being in contact with the first rotating element (110), the second graduations (122) being carried by the lower face (121 B).

9. Dose counter (100) according to claim 8, wherein the lower face (121 B) of the second rotary element (120) comprises an annular recess having a bottom, the bottom being located at a distance from the first rotary element, the second graduations (122) being carried by the bottom of the annular recess.

10. Dose counter (100) according to any one of claims 6 to 9 wherein the first drive member (116) comprises a first series of teeth configured to cooperate with an arm (46) of the actuator (40).

11. Dose counter (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first rotating element (210) and the second rotating element (220; 320) have a general shape of a hollow cylinder.

12. Dose counter (200) according to claim 11, wherein the first drive member (116) comprises a cam configured to cooperate with a pin (402) of the actuator (400).

13. Dose counter (200) according to any one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the second rotating element (210) comprises a transparent ring (249), which is integral with the second rotating element (210) and which is configured to cover the first and second graduations (112, 122), the priming cover (250) being carried by the transparent ring.

14. Dose counter (200) according to any one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the cover (350) is carried by the second rotating element (320).

15. Dispensing device (20), comprising: a dispensing member (22), comprising an actuator (40; 400) actuable by a user so as to deliver a predetermined dose of a product contained in a container (12), the dose counter (100; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, in which: the numerical indication evolves sequentially, each time the actuator (40; 400) is activated.

16. Dispensing assembly (10; 11), comprising: a container (12), which comprises a mouth and which contains a product, the dispensing device (20) according to claim 15, in which the dispensing device (20) is secured to the mouth (14) of the container (12), so as to dispense a predetermined dose of the product contained in the container (12) at each actuation of the actuator (40; 400).

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