Actuator for a thermoplastic aerosol container

Abstract

An actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) for actuating a valve on a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance includes a body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F), a press portion (60, 60A, 60B, 600, 60D, 60E, 60F) that is movable relative to the body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F), and a shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 840, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) that extends axially below the body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) to cover a neck portion (31, 33) of the container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F). The shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) defines a gripping surface (88, 88A, 88B, 88C, 88D, 88E, 88F) at a location axially below the body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) to permit a user of the actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) to grip it at a location axially below the body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F).

Description

SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-1-ACTUATOR FOR A THERMOPLASTIC AEROSOL CONTAINERPRIORITY

[0001] This application claims priority of U. S. Provisional Patent Application No.63 / 749,523, filed January 25, 2025, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to hand-held dispensing packages for dispensing fluent material, typically in the form of a spray, from a container, which can be pressurized or non-pressurized. A finger-operable actuator is used in such dispensing packages to actuate a valve to dispense the fluent substance from the container interior. The invention more particularly relates to an actuator especially suitable for use with a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND TECHNICAL PROBLEMS POSED BY THE PRIOR ART

[0003] Finger-operable actuators are typically adapted to be incorporated in dispensing systems mounted on hand-held containers that are commonly used for fluent substances or products. Some actuators are designed for use with a valve assembly and have a suitable discharge structure to produce a foam or atomized spray. A dispensing system comprising such a valve assembly and cooperating actuator is typically used for dispensing household products, such as cleaning products, deodorizers, insecticide; and other fluent products, such as cosmetic products or otherSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-2-personal care products such as shaving cream or shaving foam, hair mousse, sun care products, etc., as well as other institutional and industrial products.

[0004] Dispensing systems comprising a valve assembly and cooperating actuator are typically mounted at the top or opening of a container, such as a metal can containing a pressurized product. The container, the product and any propellant in the container, the valve assembly, and the actuator all together make up a dispensing package. The actuator typically includes a component that is connected to the valve assembly external of the container and that provides a dispensing flow path or passage from the valve assembly and through which the product can be dispensed to a target area.

[0005] The dispensing system may be provided with rotating locking mechanisms or structures in the actuator in order to prevent or inhibit inadvertent actuation during shipping, handling, or use of the actuator. U. S. Patent No. 9,216,852 B2 shows some examples of such locking actuators and is incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

[0006] While current actuators may work well for their intended purpose of facilitating the movement of a fluent substance from a pressurized container in the form of a metal can, the inventor has found that such actuators may not be suitable for use when installed on a thermoplastic (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate “PET”) container. The inventor has found that the relatively taller necks of the thermoplastic containers make them aesthetically unattractive and more difficult to grip and handle (such as slippage or unintentional movement from the hand) as compared to actuator installation on a metal container.

[0007] There exists a need for a cost-effective solution for producing an actuator suitable for use with thermoplastic containers with improved ease of use.

[0008] The inventor of the present invention has discovered that, in at least some applications, it would be desirable to provide an actuator with a novel shroud orSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-3-neck ring that is robust and may be employed for a variety of actuators installed on a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance (e.g., aerosol).

[0009] The inventor of the present invention has further determined that, for at least some applications, it may be desirable to provide such an actuator that can be easily assembled, disassembled, and / or recycled.

[0010] The inventor of the present invention has also discovered that it would be desirable to provide, at least for some applications, an actuator that can be manufactured and / or assembled at a relatively low cost with few components, and can accommodate manufacture of the actuator by means of efficient, high-quality, large-volume techniques, and that can facilitate the minimization of plastic and part weight.

[0011] The inventor of the present invention has determined that, in at least some applications, it would be desirable to provide an actuator with a novel shroud or neck ring that enables improved branding and aesthetic appearance of the overall actuator when it is installed on a thermoplastic container, and that is particularly suitable for withstanding the forces and impacts of e-commerce shipping and storage.

[0012] The inventor of the present invention has discovered how to provide such an actuator that includes novel, advantageous features not heretofore taught or contemplated by the prior art, and which can accommodate designs having one or more of the above-discussed benefits or features.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] In accordance with one broad form of the present invention, an actuator is provided for actuating a valve on a container of a fluent substance. The actuator has a body for being located at an opening of the container. The actuator includes a press portion that is movable relative to the body and that has a dispensing flow path to direct a fluent substance from the container to an exterior of the actuator by way of an exitSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)orifice located at an end of the flow path. The actuator includes a shroud that extends axially below the body and is configured to cover a neck portion of the container on which the actuator is installed. The shroud defines a gripping surface at a location axially below the body to permit a user of the actuator to grip the actuator at a location axially below the body.

[0014] In one form of the present invention, the shroud and the body are separately molded articles. Alternatively, in a different form of the present invention, the shroud and the body are unitarily formed.

[0015] According to one form of the present invention, the shroud extends from a top end of an outer wall of the body, and the shroud is configured to extend axially below the neck portion of the container.

[0016] According to yet another form of the invention, the shroud defines an upper end and a lower end, and the lower end flares radially outwardly beyond the upper end. Alternatively, in a different form of the present invention, the lower end and the upper end have substantially the same radial extent relative to a central vertical axis of the actuator.

[0017] In yet another form of the present invention, the gripping surface of the shroud includes a plurality of raised regions and / or recessed regions.

[0018] In yet another form of the present invention, the press portion is rotatable relative to the body and defines i) a locked configuration wherein movement of the press portion from an un-actuated position to an actuated position is inhibited, and ii) an unlocked configuration wherein movement of the press portion from the un-actuated position to the actuated position is permitted to actuate an aerosol valve at the opening of the container.

[0019] According to one feature of the present invention, the gripping surface of the shroud is convexly curved.SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-5-

[0020] In yet another form of the present invention, the shroud is connected to, and at least partially surrounds, the body.

[0021] According to one form of the present invention, the shroud is retained radially inwardly of the body and is configured to be located between the body and a neck portion of a container.

[0022] According to another form of the present invention, the shroud has an outer surface that is co-extensive with an outer surface of said body.

[0023] According to another feature of the invention, the actuator is assembled in combination with an aerosol valve installed at an opening of a container of a fluent substance in the form of a package for a consumer. Preferably, the container is a PET bottle. In another preferred form of the present invention, the aerosol valve is either an aerosol valve with a metal mounting cup, or a fully (or predominately) plastic aerosol valve.

[0024] According to one feature of the present invention, the shroud of the actuator is elongated and fully covers a neck portion of the container and covers a part of a main body portion of the container.

[0025] In accordance with another broad form of the present invention, a method of manufacturing a package for a consumer includes the step of obtaining a thermoplastic aerosol container having an opening to an interior of the container and a neck portion, the container being filled with a pressurized fluent substance and having an aerosol valve installed at the opening to retain the substance within the container. The method includes the step of obtaining an actuator. The actuator is of the type that includes a body for being located at the opening of the thermoplastic container and includes a press portion that is movable relative to the body and that has a dispensing flow path to direct a fluent substance from the container to an exterior of the actuator via an exit orifice at an end of the flow path. The actuator further includes a shroud that extends axially below the body to cover a neck portion of the container. The shroud hasSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-6-a gripping surface at a location axially below the body to permit a user of the actuator to grip the actuator at a location axially below the body. The method includes the step of installing the actuator with the container to locate the shroud to cover the neck portion of the thermoplastic container, thereby locating the gripping surface axially below the body to permit a user of the actuator to grip the actuator at a location axially below the body.

[0026] In accordance with another broad form of the present invention, a method of using a package includes the step of obtaining a package comprising a thermoplastic aerosol container containing a pressurized fluent substance, an aerosol valve installed at an opening of the container, and an actuator having a body installed at the opening of the thermoplastic container. The actuator has a press portion that is movable relative to the body, and the press portion has a dispensing flow path to direct the pressurized fluent substance from the container via the valve to an exterior of the actuator via an exit orifice located at an end of the flow path. The actuator further includes a shroud connected directly or indirectly to the body which extends axially below the body to cover the neck portion of the container. The shroud defines a gripping surface at a location axially below the body. The method includes the steps of gripping the actuator at the gripping surface at a location axially below the body and moving the press portion relative to the body to direct the pressurized fluent substance from the container to an exterior of the actuator.

[0027] Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from a review of the entire specification, including the appended claims and drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] FIG. 1 is an isometric view from above and the front of a first illustrated embodiment of a hand-held, finger-operable actuator according to the present inventionSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-7-shown in a locked, non-dispensing configuration, and shown installed on a fragmentary upper portion of a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance or product;

[0029] FIG. 2 is an enlarged isometric view from above and the front of the actuator and the fragmentary upper portion of the container of FIG. 1;

[0030] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator, simplified diagrammatic depiction of a plastic aerosol valve, and fragmentary upper portion of the container of FIG. 1, taken in a vertical cross-sectional plane extending through both the center of the spray orifice and the central vertical axis of the actuator;

[0031] FIG. 4 is a simplified, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a metal aerosol valve and fragmentary upper portion of a container for use with the actuator of the present invention, taken in a vertical cross-sectional plane extending through the center of the valve;

[0032] FIG. 5 is an isometric view from above and the front of another illustrated embodiment of a hand-held, finger-operable actuator according to the present invention shown in a locked, non-dispensing configuration, and shown installed on a fragmentary upper portion of a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance or product;

[0033] FIG. 6 is an isometric view from above and the front of still another illustrated embodiment of a hand-held, finger-operable actuator according to the present invention shown in a locked, non-dispensing configuration, and shown installed on a fragmentary upper portion of a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance or product;

[0034] FIG. 7 is an isometric view from above and the front of another illustrated embodiment of a hand-held, finger-operable actuator according to the present invention shown in an unlocked, dispensing configuration, and shown installed on a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance or product;

[0035] FIG. 8 is an isometric view from above and the front of still another illustrated embodiment of a hand-held, finger-operable actuator according to the presentSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-8-invention shown installed on a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance or product;

[0036] FIG. 9 is an isometric view from above and the front of another illustrated embodiment of a hand-held, finger-operable actuator according to the present invention shown in an unlocked, dispensing configuration, and shown installed on a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance or product;

[0037] FIG. 10 is an isometric view from above and the front of another illustrated embodiment of a hand-held, finger-operable actuator according to the present invention shown in a locked, dispensing configuration, and shown installed on a fragmentary upper portion of a thermoplastic container of a pressurized fluent substance or product;

[0038] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator, simplified diagrammatic depiction of a plastic aerosol valve, and fragmentary upper portion of the container of FIG. 10, taken in a vertical cross-sectional plane extending through both the center of the spray orifice and the central vertical axis of the actuator;

[0039] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional, fragmentary view of another embodiment of an actuator according to the present invention installed on a fragmentary upper portion of a container, and FIG. 12 shows the actuator having a shroud with ribs in comparison to the profile of the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator;

[0040] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional, fragmentary view of yet another embodiment of an actuator according to the present invention installed on a fragmentary upper portion of a container, and FIG. 13 shows the actuator having a shroud with reverseflare profile in comparison to the ribbed profile of the illustrated embodiment of the actuator in FIG. 12;

[0041] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional, fragmentary view of still another embodiment of an actuator according to the present invention installed on a fragmentary upper portion of a container, and FIG. 14 shows the actuator having an enlarged annular shroud for engagement of the transfer ring on the neck portion of the container; andSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-9-

[0042] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an actuator according to the present invention installed on a fragmentary upper portion of a container, and FIG. 15 shows the actuator having a shroud with an inverted bell shape for engagement of the transfer ring on the neck portion of the container.DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0043] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, this specification and the accompanying drawings disclose only some specific forms as examples of the invention. The invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments so described, however. The scope of the invention is pointed out in the appended claims.

[0044] For ease of description, the components of this invention are described in a typical (upright) position, and terms such as upper, lower, radial, axial, above, below, etc., are used with reference to this position that the actuator would have when installed upon an upright container of a fluent product. It will be understood, however, that the components embodying this invention may be manufactured, stored, transported, used, and sold in an orientation other than the position described.

[0045] Some figures illustrating the components of this invention omit or simplify portions of the valve and the container, which are conventional mechanical elements that are known and that will be recognized by one skilled in the art. The detailed descriptions of such cooperating elements are not necessary to an understanding of the invention, and accordingly, are herein presented only to the degree necessary to facilitate an understanding of the novel features of the present invention.

[0046] As will be further described in greater detail below, the present invention is directed to an actuator for dispensing a fluent substance or product (and is especially suitable for dispensing an aerosol) from a thermoplastic (e.g., PET) container in the form of a bottle. The inventive actuator can dispense types of fluent materials orSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-10-substances in an efficient manner that enhances ease of use for the user and enhanced aesthetic appeal, recyclability, and / or provides a robust solution for e-commerce shipping or handling.

[0047] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a first embodiment of an actuator 20 according to the present invention, and such an actuator 20 is suitable for use in a hand-held dispensing package including a thermoplastic container 24 containing a pressurized fluent substance (e.g., aerosol), and a dispensing valve in the form of an aerosol dispensing valve (e.g., a plastic aerosol valve 28 in FIG. 3, or a metal aerosol valve 29 with a mounting cup for a different type of thermoplastic container 30 in FIG. 4) or other conventional or special valve.

[0048] It should be understood that the containers 24, 30 and the valves 28, 29 can be of any conventional, known construction, and accordingly will only be briefly described herein. With reference to FIG. 3, the container 24 is especially suitable for use with a fully plastic aerosol valve 28 (which is shown simplified in a diagrammatic cross-section) and is preferably formed as a PET bottle having an upper or neck portion 31 defining an opening to the interior of the container 24 and a larger diameter main body portion 32 extending radially outwardly beyond the neck portion 31. Referring now to FIG. 4, the alternative thermoplastic container 30 is especially suitable for use with a metal aerosol valve 29 with a metal mounting cup, and the container 30 is typically formed as a PET bottle having an upper or neck portion 33 defining an opening to the interior of the container and a larger diameter main body portion 34 extending radially outwardly beyond the neck portion 33. The container 24, 30 could be a metal or composite material or materials in non-preferred forms of the present invention. The container 24, 30 is adapted to hold the fluent product (e.g., a liquid) and pressurized gas below the aerosol valve 28, 29.

[0049] The dispensing valve 28, 29 may be of any suitable conventional or special type. The dispensing valve will typically include a body, and the valve body contains the working components of the valve, with the bottom end of the body beingSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-11-attached to a conventional dip tube (not visible) that directs the fluent product from the container 24, 30 and into the valve body to be dispensed from the container. The upper end of the valve body typically has a valve stem that projects above the top of the container to be actuated from a closed position (wherein fluent product is not dispensed through the valve) to an open position (wherein the fluent product is dispensed through the valve via the valve stem). Typically, the valve stem is biased to the closed position, such as by a spring (not visible) contained in the valve body, so that the valve is normally closed unless forced to the open position by the actuator as it is actuated by a user. After the dispensing valve is actuated to dispense product, such as an atomized spray or a foaming liquid, the user terminates the actuation operation so that the valve stem is returned by the spring to the closed position condition wherein the valve is closed.

[0050] The dispensing valve 28, 29 may be mounted to the container 24, 30 by any suitable means, such as friction fit, crimping, adhesives, welding, etc. U. S. Patent Nos. 8,100,298; 7,249,692; and 7,861,894 each show and describe in further detail other suitable forms of dispensing valves and retention means that can be employed in connection with the present invention.

[0051] It should further be understood that while the preferred embodiments of the actuator of the present invention are shown herein in connection with an aerosol valve, in some applications it may be desirable to utilize an actuator according to the invention with other types of dispensing devices, such as a hand-powered or finger-operated pump or other dispensing systems or devices.

[0052] As best seen in FIG. 3, the actuator 20 includes a base or body 56 that receives a locking member 58 that is rotatably mounted or retained therein. The locking member 58 defines a movable or deflectable actuator button or press portion 60. The locking member 58 is rotatable relative to the body 56 between a locked configuration or position preventing the press portion 60 from being pressed downward along the central vertical axis 61 of the actuator 20 and container 24 by a user, and an unlockedSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-12-configuration or position permitting the press portion 60 to be pressed downward aiong the centra! vertical axis 61 by a user to actuate the valve 28 to dispense a fluent substance through the actuator 20. The body 56 includes an outer wall 63 with a top end 64 and a lower end 65 having a laterally inwardly extending bead that cooperates with the container neck 31 to secure the actuator 20 atop the container 24. It should be appreciated that there are many possible forms for the body 56 and the locking member 58 depending on the intended application of the actuator 20. For example, the locking member 58 may be omitted entirely if locking functionality is not required for the application. In this alternative form, the press portion 60 is cantilevered and flexibly connected to the body 56.

[0053] Still referring to FIG. 3, the actuator 20 further includes a neck ring or shroud 84 connected to the body 56. The shroud 84 is preferably a separately molded component that is assembled around the body 56. However, it will be understood that in some broad aspects of the present invention the shroud 84 may be unitarily molded as a part of the body 56. The shroud 84 may be friction fit, crimped, welded, adhered, bi-injection molded, or any other means to securely affix it with the body 56 of the actuator 20. The shroud 84 preferably surrounds (i.e., at least partly) and extends axially below the body 56 (i.e., in the direction downwardly along the central vertical axis 61) to cover the neck portion 31 of the container 24. It will be understood that the shroud 84 may be retained on the neck portion 31 directly, or held between the body 56 and the container 24 in alternative constructions. The shroud 84 defines a gripping surface 88 to permit a user of the actuator 20, when installed on the container 24 in the form of a package, to grip the actuator 20 at a location axially below the body 56 to enhance operation of the locking, unlocking, and / or actuation functionality of the actuator 20. The shroud 84 is relatively elongate in the axial direction, as compared to the other components of the actuator 20, and extends from the top end 64 of the outer wall 63 to extend axially below, to fully cover, the neck portion 31 and to cover part of the main body portion 32 (i.e., the larger diameter portion) of the container 24.SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-13-

[0054] Referring next to FIG. 2, the shroud 84 has an upper end 92 and a lower end 96 that flares radially outwardly beyond the upper end 92. The shroud 84 can be seen to have a concavely curved exterior surface when viewed from the exterior of the actuator 20 by a user. The gripping surface 88 may be provided with a plurality of raised regions 100 and / or recessed regions 104. The first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20 includes a plurality of diamond-shaped raised regions 100 with linear intersecting recessed regions 104 extending therebetween to provide an enhanced gripping surface for the user.

[0055] With reference to FIG. 3, the press portion 60 is cantilevered laterally rearwardly from the stem of the valve 28 and is deflectable or movable between (i) a neutral, non-actuating position so as not to actuate the valve 28, and (ii) an actuating position wherein the valve 28 is actuated to dispense a fluent product. The press portion 60 is biased to the neutral position.

[0056] The body 56 and the locking member 58 possess internal abutting structures (visible in FIG. 3) to inhibit movement of the press portion 60 to actuate the valve 28 in the non-dispensing, locked configuration (FIGS. 1-3) of the actuator 20. The internal abutting structures are rotated apart in the unlocked configuration (not illustrated) permitting downward movement of the press portion 60 to actuate the valve 28 to dispense a fluent substance through the dispensing flow path 76.

[0057] The inventor has discovered that the actuator 20 having the shroud 84 functions to permit enhanced user operation (e.g., better control of spray and handling of the container 24), particularly for the aerosol container 24 formed from a thermoplastic material as compared to a standard metal can with a rolled edge at the open end. The actuator 20 is especially suitable for improving user operability of locking type, rotating actuators, but need not be limited to locking actuators. The shroud 84 may further provide a low cost solution that enables the use of existing actuator designs on thermoplastic aerosol containers of various sizes, diameters, and configurations. Additionally, the shroud 84 may provide for an improved aesthetic appeal ofSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-14-thermoplastic aerosol containers that have tall neck structures, providing an improved cosmetic transition from the actuator 20 to the container 24. The elongate nature of the shroud 84 may further provide a surface for branding and other indicia not feasible to prior art actuators for metal aerosol cans.

[0058] The arrangement and location of the gripping surface 88 relative to the press portion 60 and body 56 permits a user to easily unlock, relock, and actuate the actuator 20 to prevent inadvertent actuation after use. The arrangement is intuitive, and further does not require any special or unexpected manipulation by the user to move the actuator 20 between locked and unlocked configurations. The actuator 20 may advantageously be unlocked, actuated to dispense a fluent substance, and re-locked with a one-handed or two-handed operation. The shroud 88 is configured to be robust to withstand the common forces, accelerations, and / or temperatures experienced during shipping, handling, and storage, and is suitable for e-commerce distribution.

[0059] It will be understood that the body 56 may be provided with one or more flow passages 76 and exit orifices 80 depending on the desired spray pattern or profile and need not be limited to a sole flow passage and sole exit orifice.

[0060] Methods of manufacturing the actuator 20 of the present invention will now be discussed. Initially, the body 56, the locking member 58, and the shroud 84 of the actuator 20 are each molded as separate structures of a thermoplastic polymer. In some forms, the shroud 84 is unitarily molded as an extension or part of the body 56 and therefore would not require separate assembly as discussed herein. Subsequently, in a preferred process, the manufacturer drives the locking member 58 axially together with the body 56 to form a subassembly in the locked, non-dispensing configuration or condition. In this configuration, the actuator 20 is locked such that downward forces on the press portion 60 are unable to move the stem pocket 72 downward. The shroud 84 may then be fixedly secured around the body 56 to form an assembly for shipping to a filler. At the filler, the valve 28 may be installed on the container 24 and filled with a fluent, pressurized substance with the valve 28 in its open condition. The actuator 20SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-15-may then be mated with the spray valve 28 such that the valve stem is received within the pocket 72. The retention bead on the bottom end 65 of the wall 31 will engage the neck 31 of the container 24 to retain the actuator 20 atop the valve 28 to locate the gripping surface 88 to cover the neck 31, axially below the body 56. The assembled actuator 20, valve 28, and container 24 filled with the pressurized fluent substance would have the form of a package for being sold to a consumer or end user.

[0061] As previously discussed, the locking member 58 may be omitted entirely if locking functionality is not required for the end-use or application. In this case, there is no intermediate step of assembling any locking member 58 within or around the body 56, and the body 56 is mated atop the container 24 and the aerosol valve 28, 29. The shroud 84 is then mated over, under, and / or around the body 56 in such a way as to be retained with the package.

[0062] The actuator 20 of the present invention, when assembled on a container 24 of a fluent substance in the form of a package, may be operated by a user engaging the gripping surface 88 at a location below the body 56 of the actuator 20. The user may then rotate the locking member 58 relative to body 56 and shroud 84 to move the abutting structures within the actuator 20 out of engagement. The finger of the user may then depress the push portion 60 downward into the interior of the body 56 of the actuator 20 permitting dispensing through the flow passage 76 and through the orifice 80. While continuing to grip the gripping surface 88, the user may then rotate the locking member 58 relative to body 56 and shroud 84 to move the abutting structures within the actuator 20 back into confrontation to re-lock the actuator 20. In this locked configuration, the press portion 60 cannot be inadvertently depressed to dispense a fluent substance under normal conditions in shipping, handling, or storage.

[0063] A second embodiment of an actuator 20A according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 5. Like elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20 and the second illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20A are designated with the same numeral (the first embodiment having no suffix and theSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-16-second embodiment having an “A” suffix). The second illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20A has the same basic elements as the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20, and also includes a base or body 56A with a rotatable locking member 58A having a press portion 60A retained therewith. The actuator 20A functions in the same manner as described above and is configured to actuate an aerosol valve (concealed in FIG. 5) and is installed on a thermoplastic container 24A in the form of a PET bottle. The actuator 20A includes an elongate shroud 84A that surrounds and extends axially below the body 56A, and that defines a gripping surface 88A. The second illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20A differs from the first illustrated embodiment 20 in that gripping surface 88A includes a plurality of oval-shaped, circumferentially-extending recessed regions 104A with raised regions 100A therebetween for improved operation and handling compared to prior art actuators when used with a thermoplastic container.

[0064] A third embodiment of an actuator 20B according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 6. Like elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20 and the third illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20B are designated with the same numeral (the first embodiment having no suffix and the third embodiment having an “B” suffix). The third illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20B has the same basic elements as the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20, and also includes a base or body 56B with a rotatable locking member 58B and press portion 60B retained therewith. The actuator 20B functions in the same manner as described above and is configured to actuate an aerosol valve (concealed in FIG. 6) and is installed on a thermoplastic container 24B in the form of a PET bottle. The actuator 20B includes an elongate shroud 84B that surrounds and extends axially below the body 56B, and that defines a gripping surface 88B.

[0065] The third illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20B differs from the first illustrated embodiment 20 in that the elongate shroud 84B is substantially cylindrical in shape, whereby the top end 92B and the bottom end 96B have the same radial extent relative to the central vertical axis 61 B of the actuator 20B and container 24B.SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-17-Furthermore, the gripping surface 88B differs in that it includes a plurality of circumferentially-extending chevron-shaped recessed regions 104B with raised regions 100B therebetween for improved handling compared to prior art actuators when used with a thermoplastic container.

[0066] A fourth embodiment of an actuator 20C according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 7. Like elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20 and the fourth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20C are designated with the same numeral (the first embodiment having no suffix and the fourth embodiment having an “C” suffix). The fourth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20C has the same basic elements as the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20, and also includes a base or body 56C with a rotatable locking member 58C and press portion 60C retained therewith. The actuator 20C functions in the same manner as described above and is configured to actuate an aerosol valve (concealed in FIG. 7) and is installed on a thermoplastic container 24C in the form of a PET bottle. The actuator 20C includes an elongate shroud 84C that surrounds and extends axially below the body 56C, and that defines a gripping surface 880. The fourth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20C differs from the first illustrated embodiment 20 in that the gripping surface 88C is knurled and includes a plurality of discrete raised regions 100C and recessed regions 104C therebetween for improved operation compared to prior art actuators when used with a thermoplastic container.

[0067] A fifth embodiment of an actuator 20D according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 8 only. Like elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20 and the fifth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20D are designated with the same numeral (the first embodiment having no suffix and the fifth embodiment having an “D” suffix). The fifth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20D differs in that it does not have any locking functionality, and has only a base or body 56D with a flexible press portion 60D and with an elongate shroud 84D that surrounds and extends axially below the body 56D, and that defines a gripping surface 88D. The actuator 20DSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-18-functions in somewhat of the same manner as described above and is configured to depress to actuate an aerosol valve (concealed in FIG. 8) and is installed on a thermoplastic container 24D. The fifth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20D further differs from the first illustrated embodiment 20 in that the gripping surface 88D includes a plurality of V-shaped recessed regions 104D and raised regions 100D therebetween for improved operation compared to prior art actuators when used with a thermoplastic container.

[0068] A sixth embodiment of an actuator 20E according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 9 only. Like elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20 and the sixth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20E are designated with the same numeral (the first embodiment having no suffix and the sixth embodiment having an “E” suffix). The sixth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20E has the same basic elements as the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20, and also includes a base or body 56E with a rotatable locking member 58E with a press portion 60E retained therewith. The actuator 20E functions in the same manner as described above and is configured to actuate an aerosol valve (concealed in FIG. 9) and is installed on a thermoplastic container 24E in the form of a PET bottle. The actuator 20E includes an elongate, bell-shaped shroud 84E that surrounds and extends axially below the body 56E, and that defines a gripping surface 88E. The sixth illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20E differs from the first illustrated embodiment 20 in that the gripping surface 88E includes a plurality of discrete semi-circular recessed regions 104E extending circumferentially around the shroud 84E and raised regions 100E therebetween for improved operation compared to prior art actuators when used with a thermoplastic container.

[0069] A seventh embodiment of an actuator 20F according to the present invention is illustrated in FIGS 10 and 11. Like elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20 and the seventh illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20F are designated with the same numeral (the first embodiment having no suffix andSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-19-the seventh embodiment having an “F” suffix). The seventh illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20E has the same basic elements as the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20, and also includes a base or body 56F with a rotatable locking member 58F with a press portion 60F retained therewith. The actuator 20F functions in the same manner as described above and is configured to actuate an aerosol valve (concealed in FIG. 0) and is installed on a thermoplastic container 24F in the form of a PET bottle. The actuator 20F differs in that it has an elongate, bell-shaped shroud 84F that coextensively extends axially below the body 56F, and that defines a gripping surface 88F. As can be seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, the outer surfaces of the body 56F and the shroud 84F are co-extensive, and these two components may be molded as a unitary construction, connected by way of adhesion, welded, bi-injection molding, or connected by other means.

[0070] Further embodiments of an actuator according to the present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 12-15, and are designated with the numerals 20G, 20H, 201, 20 J. Like elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the actuator 20 and these further illustrated embodiments of the actuator 20G, 20H, 201, 20J are designated with the same numeral (the first embodiment having no suffix and the further embodiments having “G-J” suffixes as appropriate). It will be noted that the remaining portions of the actuators 20G, 20H, 201, 20J are omitted for this sake of simplification.

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 12, the actuator 20G differs aesthetically and functionally from the prior embodiments in that it has a shroud 84G with a plurality of ribs having different radial extents to define the gripping surface below the actuator body and to improve the appearance of the actuator 20G.

[0072] With reference now to FIG. 13, the actuator 20H differs aesthetically and functionally from the prior embodiments in that it has a shroud 84H with an inverted flaring profile (i.e., having its greatest radial extent located axially above the remainder of the shroud 84H). This contour may improve the user’s grip on the gripping surface below the actuator body and may improve the appearance of the actuator 20H.SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-20-

[0073] Referring now to FIG. 14, the actuator 201 differs aesthetically and functionally from the prior embodiments in that it has a shroud 841 with an enlarged radial flange configured to engage the transfer ring on the neck portion of the thermoplastic container, which defines the gripping surface below the actuator body, and which can improve the appearance of the actuator 201.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 15, the actuator 20J differs aesthetically and functionally from the prior embodiments in that it has a shroud 84J with an inverted bell shape which is also configured to engage the transfer ring on the neck portion of the thermoplastic container, which defines the gripping surface below the actuator body, and which can improve the appearance of the actuator 20J.

[0075] It should be understood that while some preferred embodiments are shown or discussed, these embodiments are illustrative of the concepts of the invention and that there are many possible forms for the actuator, post, flow channels, and exit orifice that are within the scope of the invention. For example, the size of flow channel and the exit orifice can be modified from those illustrated to achieve different fan spray patterns and / or to accommodate different fluent products and / or different dispensing pressures. As a further example, while many of the features have annular or cylindrical geometries, other geometries may be desirable depending upon the particular requirements of each application.

[0076] It will further be understood that while the shroud is shown surrounding or co-extensively extending with the body of the actuator in the illustrated embodiments, the present invention is not to be limited only to these constructions. The shroud may be retained, connected, or positioned radially inwardly (i.e., under or beneath) the body such as by friction fit, snap-fit, molding, adhesive, welding, etc. Furthermore, the shroud may be installed and connected with the neck portion of the container and is not connected to the remaining components of the actuator. However, it will be understood that the connection of the shroud with the remaining components of the actuator enables a simple installation by the filler, whereby the actuator may be shipped as aSEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-21-completed subassembly (e.g., with the shroud connected or integral with the actuator) to the filler.

[0077] As yet a further example, while much of the flow path extends transverse to a long axis of the container, any other orientation is possible within the scope of the invention and other orientations may be more desirable depending upon the requirements of each application. As an even further example, while the flow channels and orifices in the illustrated embodiments are shown centered on the longitudinal axis, it may be desirable in some applications for the flow channel and / or orifice to be angled or offset relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0078] Various modifications and alterations to this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this invention. Illustrative embodiments and examples are provided as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

Claims

SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-22-WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) for use with a container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) of a fluent substance, the actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) comprising:a body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) for being located at an opening of the container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F);a press portion (60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 60E, 60F) that is movable relative to said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) and that has a dispensing flow path (76) to direct a fluent substance from the container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) to an exterior of said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) via an exit orifice (80) located at an end of said flow path (76); anda shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) extending axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) and being configured to cover a neck portion (31, 33) of the container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F), and said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) defining a gripping surface (88, 88A, 88B, 88C, 88D, 88E, 88F) at a location axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56 F) to permit a user of the actuator to grip said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 200, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) at a location axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F).

2. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) according to claim 1 wherein said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) and said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) are separately molded articles.SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-23-3. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) according to claim 1 wherein said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) and said body (56, 56A, 56B, 560, 56D, 56E, 56F) are unitarily formed.

4. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 200, 20D, 20E) according to any of preceding claims 1-3 wherein said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 840, 84D, 84 E) extends from a top end (64) of an outer wall (63) of said body (56, 56A, 56B, 560, 56D, 56E) and is configured to extend axially below the neck portion (31, 33) of the container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 240, 24D, 24E).

5. The actuator (20, 20A, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F) according to any of preceding claims 1-4 wherein said shroud (84, 84A, 840, 84D, 84E, 84F) defines an upper end (92) and a lower end (96), said lower end (96) flaring radially outwardly beyond said upper end (92).

6. The actuator (20B) according to any of preceding claims 1-4 wherein said shroud (84B) defines an upper end (92B) and a lower end (96B), said lower end (96B) having substantially the same radial extent relative to a central vertical axis of said actuator (20B).

7. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) according to any of preceding claims 1-6 wherein said gripping surface (88, 88A, 88B, 880, 88D, 88E) of said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 840, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) includes a plurality of raised regions (100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E) and / or recessed regions (104, 104A, 104B, 104C, 104D, 104E).

8. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) according to any of preceding claims 1-7 wherein said press portion (60, 60A, 60B, 600,SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-24-60D, 60E, 60F) is rotatable relative to said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56E, 56F) and defines i) a locked configuration wherein movement of said press portion (60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 60E, 60F) from an un-actuated position to an actuated position is inhibited, and ii) an unlocked configuration wherein movement of said press portion (60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 60E, 60F) from the un-actuated position to the actuated position is permitted to actuate an aerosol valve (28, 29) at the opening of the container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F).

9. The actuator (20, 20D, 20E, 20F) according to any of preceding claims 1-8 wherein said gripping surface (88, 88D, 88E, 88F) is convexly curved.

10. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) according to any of preceding claims 1-9 wherein said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) is connected to, and at least partially surrounds, said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E).

11. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 200, 20D, 20E, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) according to any of preceding claims 1-9 wherein said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) is retained radially inwardly of said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E) and is configured to be located between said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E) and a neck portion (31, 33) of a container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E).

12. The actuator (20F) according to any of preceding claims 1-9 wherein said shroud (84F) has an outer surface that is co-extensive with an outer surface of said body (56F).

13. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) according to any of preceding claims 1-12 in combination with an aerosol valve (28, 29)SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-25-installed at an opening of a container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) of a fluent substance - the actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J), the aerosol valve (28, 29), and the container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) of a fluent substance altogether in the form of a package.

14. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) combination in accordance with claim 13 wherein said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) is a PET bottle.

15. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) combination in accordance with any of preceding claims 9-13 wherein said aerosol valve (28, 29) is one of: an aerosol valve (29) having a metal mounting cup; or a plastic aerosol valve (28).

16. The actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) in accordance with any of preceding claims 9-15 wherein said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) of said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) is elongate and fully covers a neck portion (31, 33) of said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) and covers a part of a main body portion (32, 34) of said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F).

17. A method of manufacturing a package, the method comprising the steps of:obtaining a thermoplastic aerosol container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) containing a pressurized fluent substance and an aerosol valve (28, 29) installed at an opening of said thermoplastic aerosol container proximate to a neck portion (31,SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-26-obtaining an actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) having a body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) for being located at an opening of said thermoplastic container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F), said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F) having a press portion (60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 60E, 60F) that is movable relative to said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) and that has a dispensing flow path (76) to direct a fluent substance from said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) to an exterior of said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) via an exit orifice (80) located at an end of said flow path (76), said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F) having a shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 840, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) extending axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) and being configured to cover said neck portion (31, 33) of said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F), said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) defining a gripping surface (88, 88A, 88B, 88C, 88D, 88E, 88F) at a location axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) to permit a user of said actuator to grip said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) at a location axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F);installing said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) with said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) to locate said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) to cover said neck portion (31, 33) of said thermoplastic container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) and to locate said gripping surface (88, 88A, 88B, 88C, 88D, 88E, 88F) axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) to permit a user of said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) to grip said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) at a location axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F).SEA04401P00281PC (CRY-034)-27-18. A method of using a package of a fluent substance, the method comprising the steps of:obtaining a package comprising a thermoplastic aerosol container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) containing a fluent substance, an aerosol valve (28, 29), and an actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) having a body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) located at an opening of said thermoplastic container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F), said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) having a press portion (60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 60E, 60F) that is movable relative to said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) and that has a dispensing flow path (76) to direct said fluent substance from said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) to an exterior of said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) via an exit orifice (80) located at an end of said flow path (76), said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) having a shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) extending axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) and covering a neck portion (31, 33) of said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F), said shroud (84, 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, 84G, 84H, 841, 84J) defining a gripping surface (88, 88A, 88B, 88C, 88D, 88E, 88F) at a location axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F);gripping said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J) at said gripping surface (88, 88A, 88B, 88C, 88D, 88E, 88F) at a location axially below said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F);moving said press portion (60, 60A, 60B, 600, 60D, 60E, 60F) relative to said body (56, 56A, 56B, 56C, 56D, 56E, 56F) to direct said fluent substance from said container (24, 30, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F) to an exterior of said actuator (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20G, 20H, 201, 20J).

Images