FR3019047A1 - DIFFUSER OF PERFUME AGENT AND / OR SANITIZER ACTIVATED BY RETURN. - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a diffuser of perfuming and / or purifying agent, comprising: - a first (1a) and a second (1b) granule storage area (2) impregnated with a perfuming and / or purifying agent, - a flow conduit (3) connecting the two storage zones (1a, 1b), which conduit opens into each of said zones so that the granules (2) pass from one storage area to the other by flipping the diffuser ( 1), - openings (3100) for diffusing the perfuming and / or purifying agent during the reversal of the diffuser (1), characterized in that the flow duct (3) comprises at least one flow channel ( 3a) having a helical slope, so that the granules (2) slide and / or roll on said helical slope to pass from one storage area to another.

Description

DIFFUSER OF PERFUME AGENT AND / OR SANITIZER ACTIVATED BY RETURNS Description Technical field of the invention.

The invention relates to a diffuser perfume agent and / or sanitizer activated by turning. It relates to the general technical field of diffusers for diffusing volatile volatile and / or sanitizing volatile substances into the air from solid granules. State of the art

No. 4,226,829 (MIKE) discloses a perfume diffuser comprising a first and a second scented granule storage zone impregnated with a perfuming agent. These two zones are adjacent and communicate with each other by a flow channel in the form of an orifice, so that the scented granules pass from one storage area to another by inverting the diffuser. The storage zones have at least one perforated opening covered by a porous membrane, so that during the reversal of the diffuser, the granules come into contact with the membrane, a portion of the perfuming agent being transferred to this membrane. The latter being in contact with the ambient air, this perfuming agent is volatilized or evaporated and diffuses into the air, perfuming the place where the diffuser is installed. This diffuser is not completely satisfactory because the diffusion of the perfume is very irregular. Indeed, during the first reversals of the diffuser, the porous membrane impregnates massively perfume agent, and the diffusion of the perfume can be excessive. Conversely, during the final reversals, the porous membrane is only very slightly impregnated, and the diffusion of the perfume almost nonexistent. Also, the scented granules get stuck regularly at the flow orifice. In addition, it is necessary to use a porous membrane relatively expensive and complex to install. The invention aims to remedy this state of affairs. In particular, an object of the invention is to provide a reversal-activated perfume diffuser allowing diffusion of perfume more regular than that obtained by the diffuser described in US Patent 4,226,829 (MIKE). Another object of the invention is to provide a reversal activated perfume diffuser whose operation is more reliable and more efficient than that described in US Patent 4,226,829 (MIKE). Yet another object of the invention is to provide an inversion-activated perfume diffuser whose design is simple and inexpensive and whose use is particularly playful.

Disclosure of the invention. The solution proposed by the invention is a scenting and / or purifying agent diffuser comprising: a first and a second storage area for granules impregnated with a perfuming and / or purifying agent; at least one flow conduit; connecting the two storage zones, which conduit opens into each of said zones so that the granules pass from one storage area to another by flipping the diffuser, - openings for diffusing the perfuming agent and / or sanitizer when the flipping of the diffuser. This diffuser is remarkable in that the flow conduit comprises at least one flow channel having a helical slope, so that the granules slide and / or roll on said helical slope to pass from a storage area to the other. It is now the displacement of the granules and their rotation on the helical slope of the flow channel, by simple gravity, which causes the diffusion of the perfuming agent and / or sanitizer. This movement of the granules is initiated by the user by returning the diffuser and is due solely to gravity, no additional energy source being necessary to activate the diffusion. This diffusion is carried out in a regular and almost constant manner with each reversal. In addition, it has been found that the use of such a helically inclined duct limits or even eliminates any phenomenon of entrapment of granules. Other advantageous features of the invention are listed below. Each of these features may be considered alone or in combination with the outstanding features defined above, which remarkable features are not necessarily indispensable as such for the resolution of technical problems that the following features propose to solve: - Preferentially: each storage area is divided into several independent compartments; each compartment of the first storage area is coupled to a compartment of the second storage area; the flow duct comprises a plurality of flow channels, each pair of compartments being associated with its own flow channel; each flow channel opens into each of the compartments of the pair of compartments with which it is associated; - Each flow channel has a helical slope, so that the granules pass from one compartment to another by sliding and / or rolling on said helical slope; - The flow channels are independent of each other so that the granules associated with a pair of compartments do not mix with the granules associated with another pair of compartments. - The flow channels can lead into the compartments at the flow ports, at least some of these orifices being closed partially or completely by means of a shutter movably mounted in at least one of the storage areas. The granules associated with each pair of compartments are advantageously impregnated with a perfuming and / or purifying agent having a scent and / or an active effect that is specific to it. - The flow conduit may comprise a cylindrical envelope within which is disposed a cylindrical core around which are fixed a plurality of parallel helical threads on which slide and / or roll the granules. - The flow conduit may comprise a cylindrical envelope within which is disposed a cylindrical core around which is fixed a single helical thread on which slide and / or roll the granules. The envelope may comprise perforations through which the perfume diffuses when the granules slide and / or roll on a helical thread. - The cylindrical core may be a tubular core whose side wall comprises perforations. - The cylindrical envelope is preferably transparent so that the granules are visible when they slide and / or roll on a helical thread. - The storage areas and the flow conduit are preferably delimited by a common cylindrical envelope. - The flow conduit may comprise a cylindrical envelope within which is disposed a helical thread screw on which slide and / or roll the granules, said screw being devoid of soul. - The flow conduit and the storage areas can be inserted into a sleeve formed of two parts, which parts are movably mounted between: - a closed position where they obscure the flow conduit and the storage areas; - An open position where they release at least the flow conduit. At least one of the storage zones may comprise one or more reclosable openings for filling the granules. The granules advantageously consist of a polymeric resin of the family of polyether ester amides, preferably bio-sourced, which resin is impregnated with a perfuming and / or purifying agent. - The surface of the helical slope on which the granules slide and / or roll, may be in the form of chute and / or have a rough texture and / or include recessed elements and relief. Description of the figures.

Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will appear better on reading the description of a preferred embodiment which follows, with reference to the accompanying drawings, made by way of indicative and non-limiting examples and in which: Figure 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a diffuser according to the invention according to a first embodiment, - Figure 2a is a longitudinal sectional view of a diffuser according to the invention according to a second embodiment. , said diffuser comprising a sleeve in the closed position, - Figure 2b shows the diffuser according to Figure 2a where the sleeve is in the open position, - Figure 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of a diffuser according to the invention according to a third embodiment, - Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of a diffuser according to the invention according to a fourth embodiment, shutters from closing the openings of é flow channel flow, - Figures 5a to 5c are sectional views along A-A of the device according to Figure 4, illustrating different positions of the shutters. FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of a diffuser according to the invention according to a fifth embodiment, FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of a diffuser according to the invention according to a sixth embodiment of FIG. FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view of a diffuser according to the invention according to a sixth embodiment, FIG. 9a is a sectional view along BB of FIG. 8, FIGS. 9b to 9d. are cross-sectional views along CC of FIG. 8, illustrating different positions of a first shutter, - FIGS. 9e to 9g are sectional views along DD of FIG. 8, illustrating different positions of a second shutter, Figure 10 shows a scale of adjustment for adjusting the position of the shutters. Preferred embodiments of the invention

Referring to Figure 1, the diffuser 1 object of the invention comprises a first storage area Ia and a second storage area 1b each intended to receive granules 2 impregnated with a perfuming agent and / or sanitizer.

The two zones 1a, 1b are connected by a flow conduit 3, which conduit opens into each of said zones so that the granules 2 - 7 - pass from one storage zone to another by inverting the diffuser 1 The latter is intended to be installed vertically, resting on one of the storage areas. The other area is in the air. It is the gravity that makes it possible to lower the pellets 2 from the upper storage area to the lower storage area.

In the appended figures, the diffuser 1 is in the form of a cylindrical tube whose surface of revolution is constant and whose ends correspond to the storage areas 1a, 1b. The total length of the diffuser 1 is for example between 10 cm and 30 cm and its diameter for example between 2 cm and 10 cm. The storage areas 1a and 1b are preferably identical but may be different, their diameter corresponding to that of the diffuser 1 and their length may vary from 2 cm to 10 cm. It is also possible to provide a diffuser 1 of much larger size, for example having a length of one or more meters in height and a diameter proportional to these dimensions. The storage areas 1 a, 1 b are each delimited by a cylindrical envelope which is in the extension of the cylindrical envelope delimiting the flow duct 3. To simplify the design, and as shown in the accompanying figures, an envelope cylindrical joint 310 delimits the storage areas 1a, 1b and the flow conduit 3. This envelope 310 is preferably made of transparent molded synthetic material such as polypropylene or bioplastic of plant origin (eg PLA), advantageously mono-material to promote its recycling. Other materials such as glass, metal, methacrylate type SMMA, cardboard, or other, however, can be considered. The thickness of the envelope 310 is for example between 1 mm and 5 mm.

The envelope 310 may be molded in one piece, and consist of two half-cylinders hinged together by a longitudinal hinge to allow the opening and closing of the diffuser 1. The other longitudinal edges are provided with rupture pins or other equivalent fasteners preventing disassembly of the diffuser 1. This type of design is described for example in the patent EP 2.022.510 (JEAN) and in particular illustrated in Figure 6, to which the skilled person will be able to relate. The casing of the casing 310 may be made by bi-injection to obtain a transparent piece at the duct 3 and opaque at the storage areas 1a, 1b. The envelope 310 may also be made of molded transparent polypropylene coated, at the level of the storage areas 1 a, 1 b, with a transfer film decor by means of the process known as "in-mold transfer". either with a continuous unwind in the mold, or with "IML" (abbreviation of the English term ln-Mold-Label) of an image in each impression of the mold.

In an alternative embodiment, separate cylindrical envelopes are used to delimit firstly the storage areas 1a, 1b and secondly the flow conduit 3. These envelopes do not necessarily have the same shape, neither the same diameter nor the same length, and can be made in different materials. The envelopes defining the storage areas 1a, 1b may for example be made of cardboard, and that defining the flow conduit 3 may be made of plastic or glass. The ends of the envelopes delimiting the storage areas 1a, 1b can be fitted on the ends of the envelope delimiting the flow duct 3. The storage areas 1a, 1b and the flow duct 3 are then attached to each other in a sealed manner, a seal capable of providing this seal. At least one of the storage zones comprises one or more reclosable openings 100a, 110a for filling the granules 2. These openings 100a, 110a are for example in the form of folding lids articulated around a hinge. It is also possible to provide a single opening closed by a fitted cover, made of aluminum or plastic. In the accompanying figures, the other storage area 1b is simply closed by a bottom wall 100b sealed but it could be provided with one or more resealable openings similar to the openings 100a, 110a.

The granules 2 are preferably made of polymer resin of the family of polyether ester amides. This resin is impregnated with a perfuming and / or sanitizing agent, for example essential oils. This type of resin, known under the name PEBAX® and preferably the so-called Pebax®Rnew (biosourced thermoplastic elastomer, of plant origin), not only allows a regular and homogeneous distribution over time of the perfuming agent and / or sanitizer, but still ensures all of the volatile substances present without any separation phenomenon being observed. As an illustrative example, 60 g PEBAX® beads, representing a volume of about 100 ml, which volume corresponds to that of the storage areas 1 a, 1 b. More generally, any other type of granules suitable for being impregnated with an active agent intended to improve the comfort of the environment (perfume, deodorant, insecticide, bactericidal, relaxing, euphoric, etc.) can be used. ..). It is possible, for example, to use porous granules of plant fibers (eg corn cob), pumice, porous ceramic, clay, plastic or cellular rubber, which materials can gorge with a liquid active agent in which they can be used. are soaked.

In Figure 1, the flow conduit 3 has two flow channels 3a and 3b which connect the two storage areas 1a and 1b. These channels 3a, 3b open into each of the storage areas 1a, 1b so that the granules 2 circulate in the channels and pass from one storage area to another by inverting the diffuser 1, in the manner of a hourglass. To facilitate the flow of the granules 2, the latter are in the form of spherical balls, or substantially spherical, whose diameter may for example vary from 0.5 mm to 10 mm. This shape facilitates the rolling of the granules 2 in the flow channels 3a, 3b. The latter are dimensioned so as to allow the flow of the granules 2. For example, their section has dimensions between two and ten times those of the granules 2. Each storage area 1a, 1b is divided into two independent compartments, respectively 10a, 11a for the first zone la and 10b, 11b for the second zone 1b. These compartments 10a, 11a, 10b, 11b are preferably formed by installing a wall 12a, 12b inside the storage areas 1a, 1b. These walls 12a, 12b are advantageously arranged in such a way that the compartments 10a, 11a, 10b, 11b are identical in size and / or in dimensions.

As described later in the description, the compartments 10a, 11a, 10b, 11b may also be delimited by the helical threads 300a, 300b themselves, in place of the walls 12a, 12b. In FIGS. 1 to 4, each compartment 10a, 11a of the first storage area 1a is associated with a resealable opening 100a, 110a. It is thus possible to fill each compartment 10a, 1a independently with granules 2 of different color and / or fragrance. The compartments 10b, 11b of the second storage area 1b are permanently closed, but could equally well be provided with resealable openings similar to the openings 100a, 110a. Each compartment 10a, 1a of the first storage area 1a is coupled to a compartment 10b, 11b of the second storage area 1b. In FIG. 1 are coupled: on the one hand the compartments 10a-10b and on the other hand the compartments 11a-11b.

The compartments of each pair 10a-10b and 11a-11b are connected by their own flow channel, respectively 3a and 3b. These open into each of the compartments of the pair 10a-10b and 11a-11b with which they are associated, at the level of outlets 30a, 31a, 30b, 31b.

The channels 3a, 3b are thus independent of one another so that the granules associated with a pair of compartments, for example 10a-10b, do not mix with the granules 2 associated with another pair of compartments, for example 11a-11 b.

According to a preferred embodiment, the granules 2 are thus distributed homogeneously in each pair of compartments 10a-10b and 11a-11b. The size and / or the number of granules 2 is identical from one compartment to another. This ensures a substantially identical flow dynamics in the various channels 3a, 3b during the reversal of the diffuser 1.

The granules 2 associated with each pair of compartments 10a-10b and 11a-11b are advantageously impregnated with a perfuming and / or purifying agent having a scent and / or an active effect that is specific to it. For example, the first compartment pair 10a-10b may contain pellets having a "peach" scent and the second compartment pair 11a-11b may contain granules having a "vanilla" scent. The different flavors are preferably chosen according to their complementarity. The granules 2 may be of different colors so as to constitute color codes to identify visually and simply each fragrance (eg orange for the scent "peach" and yellow for the scent "vanilla"). It is also possible to associate the first pair of compartments 10a-10b with granules impregnated with a perfuming agent (eg a perfume extract), and to associate the second compartment pair 11a-11b with granules impregnated with A sanitizing agent (eg a mixture of essential oils). In FIG. 1, each channel 3a, 3b extends longitudinally between the two storage zones 1a, 1b and more particularly between the compartments of the couple. compartments 10a-10b, 11a-11b, with which it is associated. The channels 3a and 3b therefore have a certain length along the axis of revolution A of the diffuser 1. This length is for example between 2 cm and 15 cm. Each channel 3a, 3b has a helical slope, so that the granules 2 pass from one compartment to another by turning the diffuser 1, sliding and / or rolling on this slope. By turning the diffuser 1 over, the user can thus visualize the parallel and simultaneous flow of two series of granules 2 preferably having distinct colors and scents. The helical channels 3a, 3b have at least one portion of turn.

The granules 2 and move on a ramp whose length is extended by the helicoid (unlike a rectilinear channel and / or straight slope). The speed of movement of the granules 2 generates a flow of air - or a stirring of air between said granules and increasing the diffusion of the agent they are impregnated. The more the number of turns of the helical ramp increases, the more the path of the granules increases, and the better the diffusion. Increasing the inclination of the helical slope also has the effect of increasing the speed of movement of the granules 2 and thus the diffusion. The Applicant has obtained satisfactory results with a number of turns between 2 and 15, with a slope of between 20 ° and 40 ° and with a spacing between the turns of between 1 cm and 2 cm. This diffusion phenomenon is further accentuated by the friction of the granules 2 on the helical slope and / or by the friction of the granules 2 with each other during their displacement. To optimize this friction effect, the surface of the helical slope on which the granules 2 slide and / or roll advantageously has a rough texture and / or comprises hollow and raised elements. These elements form for example a grained texture. The helicoidal slope on which the granules 2 slide and / or roll can also be in the form of a chute or "left", that is to say whose all the points are not in the same plane, so as to constrain said granules to turn on themselves. It appears that this rotation further increases the diffusion of the perfuming and / or purifying agent and in the alternative allows any jamming phenomenon to be avoided.

The diffusion of the perfuming agent and / or sanitizer is finally activated by returning the diffuser 1. The user can therefore activate this broadcast when he wants or on demand, and not to undergo it permanently.

In Figures 1 to 4, the duct 3 is formed by a cylindrical casing 310 inside which is disposed an Archimedean screw, or worm, double revolution. More particularly, this screw comprises a core 30 of tubular shape delimited laterally by a surface of revolution, or lateral surface. The axis of the core 30 is coaxial with the axis of revolution A of the diffuser 1. Two helical threads 300a and 300b are fixed parallel around the core 30 and extend to the inner wall of the envelope cylindrical 310. The channels 3a and 3b are thus delimited longitudinally by the space separating these two threads 300a, 300b, and radially by the space separating the inner surface of the envelope 310 and the lateral surface of the core 30.

According to a particular embodiment, the threads 300a, 300b are attached to the core 30, for example by welding, or obtained directly during the molding or machining of the latter. According to this embodiment, joints can be provided on the radial surface of the threads 300a, 300b so as to ensure a seal with the inner wall of the casing 310. The piece formed by the core 30 and the helical threads 300a, 300b is then inserted inside the casing 310. Stoppers 330 are advantageously installed inside the casing 310 to maintain the position of this part. In an alternative embodiment, the envelope 310, the core 30 and the helical threads 300a, 300b are directly obtained by a plastic injection molding process so as to form a single piece. The threads 300a, 300b are parallel to each other and are each associated with a pair of compartments 10a-10b, 11a-11b, that is to say that their end opens at the openings 30a-30b for the thread 300a and at the level of orifices 31a-31b for the net 300b. The cylindrical envelope 310 is advantageously transparent so that the granules 2 are visible when they slide and / or roll on the threads 300a, 300b. In FIGS. 1, 2a and 2b, the cylindrical envelope 310 comprises openings or perforations 3100 through which the perfume diffuses when the granules 2 slide and / or roll on the helical threads 300a, 300b. These perforations 3100 traverse on both sides of the wall of the envelope 310 so as to communicate the channels 3a, 3b with the ambient ambient air. They are homogeneously distributed on the side wall of the envelope 310, at the level of the channels 3a, 3b, and may be in the form of circular bores or of straight or V-shaped slits. Their dimensions are smaller than those of the granules 2 so that they are always retained inside the diffuser 1, even after a significant decrease in their volume, and this to ensure child safety. Preferably, the storage areas 1a, 1b are devoid of any perforations or openings so that the agent can not - or may diffuse into the air when the diffuser 1 is not returned. In an alternative embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, the core 30 is a tubular core, that is to say hollow, whose ends 320a, 320b can lead to the open air. The tubular core 30 penetrates inside each storage zone 1a, 1b and passes through them. A first end 320a opens at the openings 100a, 110a and the second end 320b opens at the bottom wall 100b. The side wall of the tubular core 30 is provided with perforations 3100 through which the diffusion of the perfume out of the channels 3a, 3b occurs when the granules 2 slide and / or roll on the threads 300a, 300b. These perforations 3100 pass on both sides of the wall of the core 30 so as to communicate the channels 3a, 3b with the ambient air outside the diffuser 1, by the ends 320a, 320b. They are preferably homogeneously distributed on the side wall of the core 30 at the level of the channels 3a, 3b and may be in the form of circular bores or slits whose dimensions are smaller than those of the granules 2 so that the latter are always retained inside the diffuser 1. In Figure 3, the portions of the core 30 located in the storage areas 1a, 1b are devoid of any perforations or openings.

At the level of the duct 3 and the storage areas 1a, 1b, the envelope 310 is devoid of any perforation. However, it is also possible to perforate the envelope 310 as shown in FIG. 7. In this case, the perforations 3100 are distributed not only on the core 30 but also on the envelope 310. This double perforation system ensures circulation. optimal air in the channels 3a, 3b. In the case where the ends 320a, 320b of the core 30 are closed, the air flow will circulate between the perforations 3100 of said core. At least some of the outlets 30a and / or 30b and / or 31a and / or 31b are closed partially or totally. It is thus possible to adjust and / or slow the flow of the granules (2) in the manner of an hourglass. In FIG. 4, shutters 5a, 5b are movably mounted in the storage areas 1a, 1b. Each shutter 5a, 5b is in the form of a disk installed in the storage zone 1a, 1b, adjacent the flow orifices 30a-31a, 30b-31b.

These shutters 5a, 5b are movably mounted in the storage areas 1a, 1b. In Figures 4, 5a, 5b and 5c they are rotatably mounted about the axis A. To do this, the inner surface of the storage areas 1a, 1b is provided with a peripheral groove 51a, 51b in which the shutter 5a, 5b is mounted.

At least one of the shutters 5a is advantageously provided with a tongue 50a which projects outwardly from the diffuser 1, and makes it possible to maneuver it. By manipulating the tongue 50a, the shutter 5a is rotated to close or release the flow orifices 30a-31a. In practice, the envelope 310 comprises a radial slot 333 in which the tongue 50a is inserted. The length of this slot 333 defines the angular displacement of the shutter 5a, 5b about the axis A. The tongue 50a can be articulated around a hinge so as to be able to fold it against the external surface of the storage area the conduit 3.

In FIGS. 5a to 5c, the shutter 5a is hollowed out except at a solid portion 53a which is adapted to cover, and thus seal, all or part of the orifices 30a and / or 31a, as a function of the angular position of said shutter. The user can thus control and adjust the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in each of the channels 3a, 3b. In these figures 5a to 5c, the solid part 53a represents an angular sector capable of covering only part of the orifices 30a and 31a, the other part being left open. The solid portion 53a may for example cover 2/3 of the orifices 30a and 31a. Thus 1/3 of these orifices is constantly left free and through which the granules 2 can flow. In FIG. 5a, the shutter 5a is positioned so that the solid portion 53a closes off. / 3 of the orifice 30a and 1/3 of the orifice 31a: the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in each of the channels 3a, 3b is equal. This position can be considered a neutral position. In FIG. 5b, the shutter 5a is rotated so that the solid portion 53a closes 2/3 of the orifice 30a and leaves the orifice 31a completely free: the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in the channel 3a is minimal and the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in the channel 3b is maximum. This position can be considered a neutral position. In FIG. 5c, the shutter 5a is rotated so that the solid portion 53a leaves the orifice 30a and closure 2/3 of the orifice 31a completely free: the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in the channel 3a is maximum and the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in the channel 3b is minimal. The solid part 53a can obviously represent a larger angular sector, for example capable of covering or discovering all the orifices 30a and / or 31a. In this way, the user has the possibility of totally condemning one of the orifices 30a or 31a. It may be advantageous if the shutters 5a, 5b operate in a synchronized manner so as to maintain the same setting during successive turns of the diffuser 1. To do this, the shutters 5a, 5b are initially positioned symmetrically in each storage area 1 a, 1b, that is to say that for each channel 3a, 3b, the orifices 30a-30b on the one hand, and 31a-31b on the other hand, are closed - or discovered - identically. The shutters 5a, 5b are advantageously mechanically coupled so that they train each other. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the shutters 5a, 5b are connected at their axis of rotation by a coupling rod 54. This rod 54 is inserted inside the core 30 with a degree of freedom in rotation about the axis A. Thus, by manipulating the shutter 5a by means of the tongue 50a, the shutter 5b is also rotated. Whatever the storage area 1a or 1b, the position of the shutters 5a, 5b is identical, which allows to maintain the setting during the reversal of the diffuser 1. By adjusting the position of the shutters 5a, 5b, the user can choose at will one or the other of the perfumes and / or sanitizers that he wishes to distribute, in total free choice, to his will, according to his inspiration. More particularly, the user can choose to close more or less one of the channels 3a, 3b, so as to be able to diffuse one of the perfuming agents and / or sanitizers of his choice to the desired volume, or to mix in doses controlled the diffusion of several different perfuming and / or sanitizing agents to create a new fragrance different from the two initial scents.

In the embodiment of Figures 2a and 2b, the conduit 3 and the storage areas 1a, 1b are inserted into a sleeve 4 formed of two parts 4a and 4b. The latter are symmetrical and are in the form of cylinders covering the casing 310. They each comprise a cylindrical radial wall 40a, 40b closed at one end by a bottom wall 41a, 41b. The other end 42a, 42b is left free. The walls 40a, 40b have a diameter slightly greater, for example from 1 mm to 5 mm, than that of the casing 310 so as to slide along the latter. Their length corresponds to half the distance separating the ends of the two storage areas 1a, 1b. The parts 4a, 4b are thus mounted movably between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position illustrated in Figure 2a, the parts 4a, 4b obscure the flow conduit 3 and the storage areas 1a, 1b. The bottom wall 41a of the part 4a is adjacent to the openings 100a, 110b and the bottom wall 41b of the part 4b is adjacent to the bottom wall 100b of the second storage area 1b. The cylindrical radial walls 40a, 40b extend along the envelope 310 so that their free ends 42a, 42b are in contact with one another. An attachment device may be provided to hold the parts 4a, 4b in the closed position. In FIGS. 2a and 2b, this attachment device is formed by a rib 420b made on the free end 42b of part 4b, which rib is inserted into a complementary groove 420a made on the free end 42a of part 4a. . When they are nested one inside the other, the groove 420a and the rib 420b cooperate to block the parts 4a and 4b in position. In this closed position, the sleeve 4 completely encloses the flow duct 3 and the storage areas 1a, 1b. In the open position illustrated in FIG. 2b, the parts 4a, 4b are drawn longitudinally in opposite directions, so as to discover at least the flow duct 3 so that the circulation of the granules in the channels 3a, 3b can to be visible. The storage areas 1a, 1b may remain covered by a portion of the cylindrical radial walls 40a, 40b. Stops 332a, 332b are advantageously provided on the outer surface of the casing 310, to block the sliding portions 4a, 4b. These stops 332a, 332b can cooperate with complementary lips installed at the free ends 42a, 42b: when the stops penetrate into these lips, the parts 4a, 4b are held in the open position. Guiding means of the parts 4a, 4b are advantageously provided.

These guide means are for example in the form of a groove formed in the outer wall of the casing 310, complementary lugs disposed on the inner surface of the radial walls 40a, 40b being slidably mounted in said groove. The sleeve 4, and its parts 4a, 4b, are preferably made of opaque cardboard, perforated or not. Other materials such as glass or plastic, however, can be considered.

In the embodiment of Figure 8, the granules 2 are initially distributed in the compartments 10a, 11a of the first storage area 1a. The second storage area lb is compartmentalized but initially empty. The first storage area 1a is entirely covered with a fixed sheath 4a 'intended to remain permanently in this position, even during the use of the diffuser 1. This fixed sheath 4a' is advantageously made of cardboard and is in the form of the shape of a "box groove" possibly decorated. The sheath 4a 'is devoid of any perforation.

The conduit 3 and the second storage area 1b are inserted in a sleeve 4b ', also advantageously made of cardboard, which is removable and which is intended to be removed before the use of the diffuser 1. The core 30 is tubular. It penetrates inside each storage area 1a, 1b. Its ends are closed so that the granules 2 can not penetrate inside said core. The side wall of the tubular core 30 is provided with perforations 3100. The portion of the core 30 located in the storage area 1a is also perforated. The portion of the core 30 located in the storage area 1b can also be perforated At the storage areas 1a, 1b, the envelope 310 is devoid of any perforation. On the other hand, at the level of the duct 3, the envelope 310 comprises perforations 3100.

The outlets 30b and 31b are permanently reduced, and may be in a form similar to that described below with reference to FIG. 9a. The flow orifices 30a and 31a are closed off by shutters 5a1 and 5a2, respectively. These shutters 5a1 and 5a2 are superimposed one above the other.

As described previously with reference to FIGS. 4, 5a, 5b and 5c, the shutters 5a1, 5a2 are movably mounted in the storage zone 1a in which the granules 2 are initially stored. Each shutter 5a, 5b is in the form of a disk installed adjacent the flow ports 30a and 31a, respectively. These shutters 5a1, 5a2 are rotatably mounted about the axis A. To do this, the inner surface of the storage area 1a is provided with a double peripheral groove in which are mounted the shutters 5a1, 5a2. Each shutter 5a1, 5a2 is provided with a tongue 50a1, 50a2 which projects outside the diffuser 1, and makes it possible to maneuver it. By manipulating the tongue 50a1, the shutter 5a1 is turned to close or release the flow orifice 30a. And by manipulating the tab 50a2, the shutter 5a2 is turned to close or release the flow orifice 31a. In practice, the envelope 310 comprises two radial slots 3331, 3332 which are parallel but offset, and in which the tabs 50a1, 50a2 are inserted. The length of these slots 3331, 3332 defines the angular displacement of the shutters 5a1, 5a2 about the axis A. In FIG. 9a, it can be seen that the flow orifices 30a and 31a are symmetrical, and each have a shaped aperture angular sector, which openings each open directly into one of the channels 3a, 3b. These openings in the form of angular sector are separated by solid portions 30a ', 31a' which are also in the form of angular sector of the same dimensions. In FIGS. 9b to 9d, the shutter 5a1 is hollowed out except at the a solid portion 53a1 which is adapted to cover, and thus completely close the flow orifice 30a, depending on the angular position of said shutter. Similarly, in FIGS. 9e to 9g, the shutter 5a2 is hollowed out except at a solid portion 53a2 which is adapted to cover, and thus completely close, the flow orifice 31a, as a function of the angular position of said shutter. In FIG. 9b, the shutter 5a1 is positioned so that the solid portion 53a1 completely closes the orifice 30a: the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in the channel 3a is zero. The granules remain stored in compartment 10a. In FIG. 9b, the shutter 5a1 is turned so that the solid part 53a1 leaves the orifice 30a completely free: the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in the channel 3a is maximum. In this position, the solid portion 53a1 is superimposed on the solid portion 30a '. Between these two positions, and as shown in Figure 9d, the shutter 5a1 can be positioned so as to cover only partially the orifice 30a: the granules 2 then flow more or less quickly, in the manner of an hourglass, in the canal 3a. In FIG. 9e, the shutter 5a2 is positioned so that the solid portion 53a2 completely closes the orifice 31a: the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in the channel 3b is zero. The granules remain stored in compartment 11a. In FIG. 9f, the shutter 5a2 is rotated so that the solid portion 53a2 leaves the orifice 31a completely free: the flow rate of the granules 2 flowing in the channel 3b is maximum. In this position, the solid part 53a2 is superimposed on the solid portion 31a '. Between these two positions, and as shown in Figure 9g, the shutter 5a2 can be positioned so as to cover only partially the orifice 31a: the granules 2 then flow more or less quickly, in the manner of an hourglass, in canal 3b.

By adjusting and acting on the position of the shutters 5a1, 5a2, the user can choose at will any of the perfumes and / or sanitizers that he wishes -23- broadcast, in total free choice, his will, according to his inspiration. More particularly, the user can choose to close more or less one of the channels 3a, 3b, so as to be able to diffuse one of the perfuming agents and / or sanitizers of his choice to the desired volume, or to mix in doses controlled the diffusion of several different perfuming and / or sanitizing agents to create a new fragrance different from the two initial scents. To facilitate the adjustment of the shutters 5a, 5b, there is provided at the slots 3331, 3332, an adjustment scale of the type illustrated in Figure 10. The position No. 1 corresponds to a "zero" position where the shutters 5a, 5b completely close the orifices 30a, 31a (FIGS. 9b, 9e). Position No. 2 corresponds to an "hourglass" position where the shutters 5a, 5b partially block the orifices 30a, 31a (FIGS. 9d, 9g). Position No. 3 corresponds to a "total" position where the shutters 5a, 5b completely discover the orifices 30a, 31a (FIGS. 9c, 9f).

In any case, initially, the shutters 5a1 and 5a2 are positioned to completely close the orifices 30a and 31a ("zero" position). The granules therefore remain stored in their respective compartments 10a, 11a, which compartments are loaded with perfume and / or sanitizing agent vapors. When the user will remove the sheath 4b ', the sliding of this sheath against the casing 310 will create a suction inside the channels 3a, 3b, which suction causes an air flow inside the channels 3a , 3b: the air contained in the storage zone 1a and charged with perfuming and / or purifying agent, enters the channels 3a, 3b by the perforations 3100 made in the core 30. This air flow is then released outside the diffuser 1, through the perforations 3100 which are made in the envelope 310. Thus create a first vaque perfume and / or air purification by simply removing the sleeve 4b ' . The user can then adjust the angular position of the shutters 5a1 and 5a2 to initiate the circulation of the granules 2 in the channel 3a and / or 3b.30. In the variant embodiment of FIG. 6, the flow conduit 3 comprises a cylindrical envelope 310 inside which is disposed a cylindrical core 30 around which is fixed a single helical thread 300a on which slide and / or roll the granules 2. The latter therefore pass from a storage area 1a to the other 1b circulating through a single flow channel 3a. In another variant embodiment, it is possible to place inside the cylindrical casing 310 a screw with a helical thread on which slide and / or roll the granules 2, said screw being devoid of a core. This type of screw is commonly called: screw without a soul.

The embodiment variant illustrated in FIG. 7 combines the embodiments of FIGS. 2a, 2b and 3. Perforations 3100 are distributed not only on the tubular core 30 but also on the envelope 310. The ends 320a, 320b of the tubular core 30 open into the parts 4a, 4b. By moving the portions 4a, 4b from the closed position to the open position, said portions act as pistons. An aspiration is created inside the parts 4a, 4b, which suction causes air circulation (shown schematically by the arrows) inside the channels 3a, 3b. The air outside the diffuser 1 enters the channels 3a, 3b through the perforations 3100 made in the envelope 310. This flow of air then passes inside the core 30 by the perforations 3100 associated therewith, then leaves said soul by the ends 320a, 320b. This circulation of air amplifies the phenomenon of diffusion. The flow of air flows in the opposite direction by moving the parts 4a, 4b from the open position to the closed position.

The arrangement of the various elements and / or means of the invention, in the embodiments described above, should not be understood as requiring such an arrangement in all implementations. In any case, it will be understood that various modifications can be made to these elements and / or means without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In particular: Diffuser 1 does not necessarily have a cylindrical shape and / or a circular section. It may have an oval, rectangular or square section. Storage areas 1a and 1b are not necessarily delimited by a cylindrical envelope. They can have a cubic, pyramidal or conical shape (for example of the type illustrated in US Pat. No. 4,612,223 or US Pat. No. 4,226,829). Each storage area 1 a, 1 b can be divided into more than two compartments, for example into three or four compartments, each compartment of the first storage area remaining coupled to a compartment of the second storage area, and the compartments of each pair of compartments remaining connected by their own flow channel. In other words, there are as many flow channels as pairs of compartments. - More than two helical threads (for example three or four) can be fixed parallel around the core 30. There are as many helical threads as flow channels and couples of compartments. The compartments 10a, 11a, 10b, 11b do not necessarily have the same size and / or the same dimensions. - The size and / or the number of granules 2 may vary from one compartment to another. The granules 2 associated with each pair of compartments may be impregnated with the same perfuming and / or sanitizing agent and / or be of the same color. - The conduit 3 may be opaque. - The conduit 3 and / or the core 30 and the helical threads 300a, 300b may be made of a material other than plastic, for example steel, glass or cardboard. - The core 30 and / or the helical thread (s) 300a (300b) can extend in at least one of the storage areas 1a, 1b, over all or part of the length of this last. For example, to simplify the design and overcome the separation wall 12b, the core 30 and the helical threads 300a, 300b can extend to the bottom wall 100b of the second storage area 1b . Same for the first storage area 1a. - The sleeve 4 may be transparent. - The shutters 5a, 5b can only be used to partially or completely close some of the flow orifices, for example 30a and 30b, the other orifices 21a and 31b remaining constantly open. - The shutters 5a and 5b can be provided with their own handling tab and / or can be handled independently. - One can install a shutter 5a or 5b only at one of two storage areas 1a or 1b. - The shutters 5a, 5b can be mounted movable in translation in the storage areas 1a or 1b, and operate in the manner of a hatch. The shutters 5a, 5b can operate out of synchronization.

Claims (16)

REVENDICATIONS1. Fragrance and / or purifying agent diffuser, comprising: - a first (1a) and a second (1b) storage zone for granules (2) impregnated with a perfuming and / or sanitizing agent, - a flow conduit ( 3) connecting the two storage zones (1a, 1b), which conduit opens into each of said zones so that the granules (2) pass from one storage area to another by inverting the diffuser (1), - openings (3100) for diffusing the perfuming and / or purifying agent during the reversal of the diffuser (1), characterized in that the flow conduit (3) comprises at least one flow channel (3a) having a slope helically, so that the granules (2) slide and / or roll on said helical slope to move from one storage area to another. 2. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein: - each storage area (1a, 1b) is divided into several compartments (10a, 11a, 10b, 11b) independent, - each compartment (10a, 11a) of the first storage area (1a) is coupled to a compartment (10b, 11b) of the second storage area (1b), - the flow channel (3) comprises a plurality of flow channels (3a, 3b), each pair of compartments (10a-10b; 11a-11b) being associated with its own flow channel (3a, 3b), - each flow channel (3a, 3b) opens into each compartment of the pair of compartments ( 10a-10b; 11a-11b) with which it is associated, - each flow channel (3a, 3b) has a helical slope, so that the granules (2) pass from one compartment to another by sliding and / or rolling on said helical slope, the flow channels (3a, 3b) are independent of one another so that the pellets (2) associated with a pair of co mparments (10a-11a) do not mix with the pellets (2) associated with another pair of compartments (10b-11b). 3. Diffuser according to claim 2, wherein: - the flow channels (30a, 30b) open into the compartments (10a, 11a, 10b, 11b) at the level of outlets (30a, 31a, 30b, 31b), at least some of these outlets (30a, 31a, 30b, 31b) are closed partially or completely by means of a shutter (5a, 5b) movably mounted in at least one of the storage areas (1a). , 1 b). 4. Diffuser according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the granules (2) associated with each pair of compartments (10a-11a, 10b-11b) are impregnated with a scent and / or purifying agent having a scent and / or an active effect of its own. 5. Diffuser according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the flow duct (3) comprises a cylindrical casing (310) inside which is disposed a cylindrical core (30) around which are fixed several helical threads (300a, 300b) parallel on which slide and / or roll the granules (2). 6. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the flow duct (3) comprises a cylindrical casing (310) inside which is disposed a cylindrical core (30) around which is fixed a single helical thread (300a ) on which slide and / or roll the granules (2). 7. Diffuser according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the cylindrical casing (310) comprises perforations (3100) by which the perfume diffuses when the granules (2) slide and / or roll on a helical thread (300a, 300b). 8. Diffuser according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the cylindrical core (30) is a tubular core whose side wall comprises perforations (3100). 9. Diffuser according to one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the cylindrical casing (310) is transparent so that the granules (2) are visible when they slide and / or roll on a helical thread (300a, 300b ). 10. Diffuser according to one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the storage areas (1a, 1b) and the flow duct (3) are delimited by a common cylindrical envelope (310). 11. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the flow conduit (3) comprises a cylindrical casing (310) inside which is disposed a helical thread screw on which slide and / or roll the granules (2). said screw being devoid of soul. 12. Diffuser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow duct (3) and the storage areas (1a, 1b) are inserted in a sleeve formed of two parts (4a, 4b), which parts are mounted movably between: - a closed position where they conceal the flow duct (3) and the storage areas (1a, 1b), - an open position where they release at least the flow duct (3 ). 13. Diffuser according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: -30- - the first storage area (1a) is completely covered with a fixed sleeve (4a '), - the flow conduit (3) and the second storage area (1b) is inserted into a sleeve which is removable and which is intended to be removed prior to use of said diffuser. 14. Diffuser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the storage areas (1a) comprises one or more openings (100a, 110a) reclosable for filling granules (2). 15. Diffuser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the granules (2) consist of polymeric resin of the family of polyether ester amides, preferably bio-sourced, which resin is impregnated with a perfuming agent and / or sanitizer. 16. Diffuser according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the helical slope on which slide and / or roll the granules (2) is chute-shaped and / or has a rough texture and / or comprises hollow elements and relief. 15 20