Applicator for a pressure container containing a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam or adhesive

Abstract

The object of the invention is an applicator (1) for attaching to a pressure container (20) containing a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or another composition, comprising a body (2) adapted for being connected to a pressure container (20) equipped with a valve (21), where the body comprises a gripping surface (3) for contacting the user's hand, wherein the applicator (1) additionally comprises a first movable part (4) placed in the body (2) for coupling with the valve (21) of the pressure container (20), wherein the first movable part (4) comprises a surface (5) for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user and is adapted to push the stem of the valve (21) into the interior of the pressure container (20) to open the valve (21) of the pressure container (20) as a result of the movement of the movable part (4). The applicator is characterised in that it comprises a rotational and tiltable movable part (8) mounted in the body (2) for coupling with the movable part (4), wherein the movable part (8) comprises a surface (9) for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user, wherein the applicator (1) is configured so that the rotational and tilting movement of the rotational and tiltable movable part (8) causes movement of the first movable part (4) such that the stem of the valve (21) is pushed into the interior of the pressure container (20), resulting in the opening of the valve (21) of the pressure container (20).

Description

[0001] Applicator for a pressure container containing a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam or adhesive

[0002] Field of technology

[0003] The object of the invention is an applicator for a pressure container containing a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam or adhesive. The applicator is particularly useful for dosing / distributing high-viscosity compositions suitable for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam (PU), especially mounting foam, adhesive or other compositions. The applicator is designed to be used with pressure containers, especially those with a maletype valve.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] Compositions for forming sealing paste, polyurethane (PU) foam or adhesive are typically reactive or curable. They usually contain at least one active ingredient and are intended for forming, for example, a sealant (e.g., sealing paste), a filler (e.g., polyurethane foam) or an adhesive (e.g., single- or two-component adhesive). Such compositions are usually cured through contact with moisture or its evaporation.

[0006] Such compositions are typically dispensed using various types of applicators.

[0007] Hand-held applicators, usually disposable, screwable onto the stem of the valve of a pressure container, containing a tube / straw through which the composition is delivered to the target location are known in the state of art. Such applicators also typically comprise a tiltable lever to activate the flow of the composition. The container valves for such hand-held applicators comprise a threaded stem onto which the applicator is spined and are referred to as 'straw valves.' Such applicators operate on a valve mounted in the pressure container containing the composition, opening the flow of the composition through the straw valve as a result of tilting the lever.

[0008] Document EP2977333B1 discloses a foam dispensing applicator placed in a pressure container. The applicator is adapted for connecting with the stem of the valve of the pressurecontainer. The applicator comprises a tubular main body, a connecting part joining the stem with the body of the applicator, a straw extending from the connecting part, and a two-part lever consisting of a stationary element attached to the connecting part and a movable element movably connected to the stationary part. The movable part is adapted to connect with the straw and close it after the first use of the applicator to protect the applicator from the foam hardening inside the straw. The applicator can be operated with one hand. However, the disadvantage of this solution is the lack of ergonomics in dispensing mounting foam.

[0009] Document EP4405274A1 discloses a hand-held applicator for dispensing a composition contained in a pressure container, consisting of a tiltable body for attaching to the stem of a tiltable valve, wherein the said body has a lever surface for activation with the fingertip and is adapted to open the valve of the container by pressing the stem of the container valve into the container through a tilting motion relative to the axis of symmetry of the stem of the valve as a result of activation.

[0010] In turn, document EP4310121A1 discloses another mechanical applicator configured for using with a pressure container equipped with a straw valve. The applicator consists of a body containing a connector for being connected the valve assembly of the pressure container, an internal foam path connected to the valve connector, an outlet nozzle connected to the internal foam path, and an actuating element for controlling the valve assembly of the pressure container between a closed and an open position. And the nozzle contains a rod placed within it for precise control of the foam flow.

[0011] Specialised dispensing guns are also known for dispensing the afore-mentioned compositions. Such guns are usually connected to the pressure container either by snapping into place or by spinning the gun onto the thread of an adapter attached to the valve of the pressure container. Pressure containers designed for use with dispensing guns are equipped with gun valves. Dispensing guns typically comprise a needle valve located at the end of the gun barrel, allowing precise dispensing of the composition. The use of a needle valve also enables the composition flow to be sealed, limiting its exposure to the external environment (external atmosphere), ensuring that the composition in the gun barrel remains liquid, thereby extending the usability of the composition after first use. In the case of a solution usinga dispensing gun, opening the valve of the pressure container occurs as a result of connecting the gun to the container. Dispensing the composition itself is done by regulating its flow with the needle valve of the dispensing gun. The desire to use this solution requires users who perform finishing work on their own, such as 'do-it-yourself,' to purchase the gun itself, which involves additional costs. There is also a risk that the purchased gun may not fit the pressure containers with the composition, preventing their proper connection and, consequently, the opening of the pressure container valve.

[0012] Applicators mounted directly on valves placed in pressure containers, which are equipped with a tube or straw similar to the aforementioned hand-held applicators, are also known. Such products are ready for use without the need to spin the applicator onto the valve or connect it in any other way.

[0013] Document EP3173151B1 discloses a hand-held applicator suitable for containers with a gun valve. The hand-held applicator is adapted for applying the contents of a pressure container and comprises a stationary part intended for attaching to the pressure container containing a composition suitable for forming silicone paste, polyurethane (PU) foam or adhesive. The stationary part comprises a gripping surface designed for contacting the hand and provides a handle for the applicator. The hand-held applicator also comprises an integrated movable part that provides an operating surface enabling actions to be performed by at least one finger of the same hand. The movable part, through its movement, ensures engagement with the valve of the container and opens the container valve under the action of pushing the stem of the valve down into the container's contents. Additionally, the hand-held applicator contains a cavity for placing an accessory item and a security seal in the form of a cover to close the cavity for the accessory item. The security seal is broken before the first use of the applicator. Document EP3173151B1 also discloses that the hand-held applicator comprises a straw for dispensing foam, which can be equipped with a closing element for sealing the open end of the conduit or straw. The securing element can be placed on the straw after the first use of the applicator, allowing the applicator to be reused up to 48 hours after its initial use. The drawback of this solution is the inability to change the orientation of the dispensingcontainer, which can be inconvenient when applying the composition in hard-to-reach areas, as well as the regulation of flow by adjusting the pressure applied to the button.

[0014] Similarly, document EP4015411A1 discloses an applicator for a pressure container equipped with a gun valve. The applicator comprises a cap for mounting onto the pressure container above the container valve, wherein the cap features an opening for inserting a nozzle and a body positioned around the opening on the first side of the cap. The applicator also comprises a handle for the user, which comprises a first and a second handle part connected to the cap and extending from the opening to the other side of the cap. The handle parts are spaced apart and located on opposite sides of the opening on the other side of the cap. The first handle part is movably connected to the cap for operating the container valve, while the second handle part has a substantially fixed position relative to the cap. Between the first and second handle parts, there is a lock connected to at least one handle part and extending through the space between the handle parts to prevent the first handle part from moving towards the second handle part. The lock is detachable from the first handle part and / or the second handle part to enable movement of the first handle part for operating the container valve during use.

[0015] The described solutions address the issue of providing ergonomic application of compositions from a pressure container containing a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam or adhesive, however, they do not offer a comprehensive solution ensuring ergonomic operation both when the applicator is used with the valve facing downward and upward. Consequently, there is a need for an applicator for pressure containers with a valve that provides improved ergonomics.

[0016] The objective of the invention is to solve the technical problem of providing an ergonomic and ready-to-use applicatorfor pressure containers, particularly those containing mounting foams or silicone pastes, enabling the dispensing of compressed liquids at any angle and in any position.Essence of the invention

[0017] The object of the invention is an applicator attached to a pressure container containing a composition for forming sealing pastes, polyurethane foams, adhesives and other compositions, comprising a body adapted for being connected to a pressure container equipped with a valve, wherein the body comprises a gripping surface for contacting the user's hand, wherein the applicator additionally comprises a first movable part placed in the body for coupling with the valve of the pressure container, wherein the first movable part comprises a surface for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user and is adapted to push a stem of the valve into the interior of the pressure containerto open the container valve as a result of the movement of the movable part.

[0018] The essence of the invention lies in that the applicator comprises a rotational and tiltable movable part mounted in the body for coupling with the first movable part, wherein the rotational and tiltable movable part comprises a surface for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user, wherein the applicator is configured such that movement of the rotational and tiltable movable part causes movement of the first movable part, thereby pushing the stem of the valve down into the interior of the pressure container, resulting in the opening of the pressure container valve.

[0019] Preferably, the first movable part comprises a nozzle for dispensing the composition from the pressure container.

[0020] Preferably, the first movable part is connected to the body in a rotational and tiltable manner, preferably via a joint.

[0021] Preferably, the rotational and tiltable movable part comprises arms for coupling with the first movable part, and the first movable part comprises support elements for supporting the arms of the rotationally-tiltable movable part.

[0022] Preferably, the applicator comprises a straw for dispensing the composition from the pressure container.Preferably, the surface for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user on the first movable part is essentially located at the upper part of the applicator.

[0023] Preferably, the surface for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user on the rotational and tiltable movable part is essentially located opposite the gripping surface of the body intended for contacting the user's hand.

[0024] Preferably, the applicator comprises a lock preventing accidental opening of the valve, wherein preferably, the lock preferably takes the form of a breakable element connected to the first movable part and basing on the body.

[0025] Preferably, the body comprises a centring sleeve for seating on the rim of the pressure container.

[0026] The invention also relates to a pressure container containing a composition for forming a sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or other composition, comprising a valve and an applicator according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0027] Preferably, the pressure container is equipped with a male-type valve.

[0028] Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of an applicator according to the first aspect of the invention or a pressure container according to the second aspect of the invention for manually dispensing a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or other composition from a pressure container. The applicator is suitable for manually dispensing the composition, for example, to fill cavities and cracks, bond materials, create seals, provide thermal and / or acoustic insulation, and / or assemble objects or similar tasks.

[0029] Advantages of the solution

[0030] By using two movable parts, the applicator according to the invention ensures high and previously unattained ergonomics during use in various positions, particularly when the applicator operates with the valve positioned downwards or upwards. Depending on the user's preference, it is possible to dispense foam using either the first movable part or the rotational and tiltable movable part.The placement of the surface for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user, located on the first movable part at the upper portion of the applicator, is especially important when the applicator operates with the valve positioned upwards, which enables easy and precise application of foams, pastes, adhesives or other compositions, for example, under ceilings.

[0031] When the applicator is permanently connected to the valve and the pressure container, the product is ready for use without the need to spin on the applicator or connect it to the valve in any other way. At the same time, the permanent connection of the applicator to the valve further enhances the sealing effect of the product.

[0032] The invention is presented in embodiments and in the drawing, in which:

[0033] Fig. 1 - illustrates the applicator according to the first embodiment of the invention in a side view;

[0034] Fig. 2a - illustrates the applicator according to the first embodiment of the invention in cross-section;

[0035] Fig. 2b - illustrates the applicator according to the first embodiment of the invention in cross-section;

[0036] Fig. 3 - illustrates the applicator according to the second embodiment of the invention in a side view;

[0037] Fig. 4 - illustrates the applicator according to the second embodiment of the invention in cross-section.

[0038] Detailed description of the invention

[0039] First embodiment

[0040] The applicator 1 is designed for attaching to a pressure container 20 containing a composition for forming sealing pastes, polyurethane foams, adhesives or other compositions.

[0041] The applicator 1 comprises a body 2, which is adapted for being connected to a pressure container 20 equipped with a gun valve 21, wherein the body 2 preferably comprisesa centring sleeve 13 for seating on the rim of the pressure container 21. The body 2 comprises a gripping surface 3 for contacting the user's hand, in particular with the inner part of the hand.

[0042] The said applicator 1 additionally contains a first movable part 4 located in the body 2, designed to couple with the valve 21 of the pressure container 20. The first movable part 4 comprises a surface 5 for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user, preferably with their thumb. In this embodiment, the surface 5 is located on the upper part of the applicator. In other embodiments, the applicator 1 may be positioned in a different part of the device provided that the functionality of the first moving part 4 is maintained.

[0043] The first moving part 4 contains a nozzle 6 for dispensing the composition from the pressure container 20.

[0044] The applicator 1 also comprises a rotational and tiltable movable part 8 mounted in the body 2, designed to be coupled with the first movable part 4. The rotational and tiltable movable part 8 comprises the surface 9 for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user, preferably the index finger, middle finger, ring finger and / or little finger. The surface 9 for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user is essentially located opposite the gripping surface 3 of the body 2, for contacting the user's hand. In other embodiments, it can be placed in a different part of the applicator 1, provided that the functionality of the rotational and tilting movable part 8 is maintained.

[0045] To couple the rotational and tiltable movable part 8 with the first movable part 4, the rotational and tiltable movable part 8 contains arms 10a to base on the support elements 11a of the first movable part 4 and arms 10b to base on the support elements lib of the first movable part 4. Preferably, the arms 10a, 10b and the support elements 11a, lib are arranged in such a way that the nozzle 6 for dispensing the composition from the pressure container 20 is located between them. This ensures an even pressure of the arms 10a, 10b on the support elements 11a, lib.

[0046] In other embodiments of the invention, there may only be the arms 10a with the support elements 11a, or only the arms 10b with the support elements lib.The rotational and tiltable movable part 8 is connected to the body 2 by means of a rotational and tiltable joint, for instance in the form of two coaxial pins 15 of the second movable part 8 mounted in the body 2. In another embodiment, the first movable part 4 may also be connected to the body 2 by means of a rotational and tiltable joint. In yet other embodiments, there may be a perforation, ribbed structure, thinned section or flexible material between the movable parts 4 and 8 and the body 2.

[0047] After attaching the applicator 1 to the pressure container 20 containing a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or another composition, equipped with a valve 21, preferably a male-type valve, the first movable part 4 is coupled with the stem of the valve 21.

[0048] The applicator 1 also comprises a straw 12 for dispensing the composition from the pressure container 20, attached to the nozzle 6 in the first movable part 4.

[0049] To apply foam through the straw 12 connected to the nozzle 6, the user holds the applicator 1 with the pressure container 20 in such a way that the inner part of the hand contacts the gripping surface 3 of the body 2 of the applicator 1, the thumb rests on the surface 5 of the first movable part 4, and at least one of the remaining fingers of the same hand is placed on the surface 9 of the rotational and tiltable movable part 8. Then, to dispense the composition from the pressure container, the user must act on the first and / or the rotational and tiltable movable part.

[0050] When acting on the first movable part 4, pressing it with the thumb at the surface 5 causes the movement of the first movable part 4, which in turn pushes the stem of the valve 21 into the interior of the pressure container 20, thereby opening the valve 21 of the pressure container 20 and dispensing the composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or another composition from the pressure container 20.

[0051] In contrast, when acting on the rotational and tiltable movable part 8 by pressing it with at least one of the other fingers on the surface 9 of the rotational and tiltable movable part 8, the rotational and tiltable movable part 8 tilts relative to the body 2 so that its arms 10a, 10brest and press respectively on the support elements 11a, lib of the first movable part, causing the first movable part 4 to move. As a result of the induced movement of the first movable part 4, the stem of the valve 21 is pushed into the interior of the pressure container 20, opening the valve 21 of the pressure container 20 and dispensing the composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or another composition from the pressure container 20.

[0052] After the foam dispensing is completed, the user releases the first or rotational and tiltable movable part, causing the stem of the valve 21 to return to its initial position, which results in the closing of the valve 21.

[0053] The described solution according to the invention increases the comfort and ergonomics of using the applicator and allows foam application with the valve positioned upwards and the valve positioned downwards.

[0054] It is also possible to apply simultaneous pressure on both movable parts, which facilitates foam dispensing in cases where pressing one of the movable parts is difficult for the user, for example, due to insufficient finger strength or smaller hand size.

[0055] Second embodiment

[0056] The applicator 1 is as in the previous embodiments, with the difference that it comprises a lock preventing accidental opening of the valve 21. The lock preventing accidental opening of the valve 21 takes the form of a breakable element 14 connected to the first movable part 4 and basing on the body 2. The breakable element 14, basing on the body 2, blocks the movement of the first movable part 4 and the rotationally and tiltable movable part 8 relative to the body 2, thereby preventing the valve 21 from opening. The breakable element 14 is broken prior to the first use of the applicator 1.

[0057] Third embodiment

[0058] The pressure container 20, as exemplary shown in Fig. 4 and 5, contains a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or another composition and comprises a valve 21 and an applicator 1 according to any of the previous embodiments.

Claims

Patent claims1. An applicator (1) for attaching to a pressure container (20) containing a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or another composition, comprising a body (2) adapted for being connected to a pressure container (20) equipped with a valve (21), wherein the body (2) comprises a gripping surface (3) for contacting the user's hand, wherein the applicator (1) additionally comprises a first movable part (4) placed in the body (2) for coupling with the valve (21) of the pressure container (20), wherein the first movable part (4) comprises a surface (5) for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user and is adapted to push a stem of the valve (21) into the interior of the pressure container (20) to open the valve (21) of the pressure container (20) as a result of the movement of the movable part (4)characterised in thatthe applicator (1) comprises a rotational and tiltable movable part (8) mounted in the body (2) for coupling with the first movable part (4), wherein the rotational and tiltable movable part (8) comprises a surface (9) for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user,wherein the applicator (1) is configured such that rotational movement of the rotational and tiltable movable part (8) causes movement of the first movable part (4) in such a way that the stem of the valve (21) is pushed into the interior of the pressure container (20), thereby opening the valve (21) of the pressure container (20).

2. The applicator according to claim 1, characterised in that the first movable part (4) comprises a nozzle (6) for dispensing the composition from the pressure container (20).

3. The applicator according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the first movable part (4) is connected to the body (2) in a rotational and tiltable manner (7).

4. The applicator according to claim 3, characterised in that the first movable part (4) is connected to the body (2) by means of a tiltable joint.

5. The applicator according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the rotational and tiltable movable part (8) comprises arms (10a) and / or arms (10b) for coupling to the first movable part (4), wherein the first movable part comprises supportelements (11a) for supporting the arms (10a) of the rotational and tiltable movable part (8) and / or support elements (lib) for supporting the arms (10b) of the rotational and tiltable movable part (8).

6. The applicator according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises a straw (12) for dispensing the composition from the pressure container (20).

7. The applicator according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the surface (5) for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user is substantially located in the upper part of the applicator (1).

8. The applicator according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the surface (9) for contacting at least one finger of the same hand of the user is substantially located opposite the gripping surface (3) for contacting the user's hand.

9. The applicator according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises a lock preventing accidental opening of the valve (21).

10. The applicator according to claim 9, characterised in that the lock preventing accidental opening of the valve (21) takes the form of a breakable element (14) connected to the first movable part (4) and basing on the body (2).

11. The applicator according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the body (2) comprises a centring sleeve (13).

12. A pressure container (20) comprising a composition for forming sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive or another composition, including a valve (21) and the applicator (1) according to any of claims 1 to 11.

13. Use of the applicator (1) according to any of claims 1 to 11 or the pressure container (20) according to claim 12 for manually dispensing a composition for forming a sealing paste, polyurethane foam, adhesive, or another composition from the pressure container (20).

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