WO2004020315A1

WO2004020315A1 - Dispensing apparatus for use with a propellant container

Info

Publication number: WO2004020315A1
Application number: PCT/US2001/043850
Authority: WO
Inventors: Scott Edward Smith
Original assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
Priority date: 2001-11-23
Filing date: 2001-11-23
Publication date: 2004-03-11
Also published as: AU2002237672A1

Abstract

A dispensing apparatus including a product container defining an interior chamber adapted to receive a product to be dispensed. The dispensing apparatus also includes a discharge device adapted to discharge a product from the product container. The dispensing apparatus is adapted to selectively increase pressure on a product in the interior chamber by releasing pressurized propellant from a propellant container. The dispensing apparatus is also adapted to selectively decrease pressure on a product in the interior chamber without releasing any substantial additional product or propellant with the discharge device.

Description

DISPENSING APPARATUS FOR USE WITH A PROPELLANT CONTAINER

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to dispensing apparatus, and more particularly to dispensing apparatus adapted to selectively increase pressure on a product in the interior chamber by releasing pressurized propellant from a propellant container.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional dispensers often contain a product and propellant in a single cannister that is difficult to refill. Typically, the entire dispenser must be discarded once the product is exhausted, thereby creating excessive landfill waste that may contaminate the environment. Moreover, since additional product and propellant may not be added, a relatively large portion of the interior chamber must be reserved for the propellant, thereby limiting product capacity.

Existing dispensers are often filled with product and propellant prior to shipping to wholesale outlets for purchase by consumers. Once charged, the interior chamber containing the product remains under pressure until the entire supply of product and or propellant has been dispensed by the consumer. The inability to turn off or discharge the pressure within the interior chamber may increase the likelihood of inadvertent or undesirable discharge of product.

Many conventional devices also create excess volatile organic components that are released in the atmosphere, potentially causing an environmental concern. Liquid propellant is often mixed with the product in order to charge the interior chamber of the product container. Frequently, a substantial amount of liquid propellant never reaches the gaseous stage inside the product container but is dispensed along with the product. Accordingly, conventional devices require the product to be mixed with an excessive amount of liquid propellant since a certain portion of the propellant will never function to increase the pressure within the product container but will be dispensed with the product, thereafter evaporating into the atmosphere.

Conventional dispensers also generally comprise a pressurized metallic can. The cans are typically metal in order to meet certain global safety requirements. For instance, the Department of Transportation ("DOT") mandates approved metallic cans for containing certain pressurized products that enter the stream of commerce. Unfortunately, metal product containers are undesirable since they may be difficult to recycle and therefore contribute to excess landfill. Metal product containers also limit the types of products that may be dispensed due to corrosion concerns. Moreover, the metallic material can be expensive and may unnecessarily limit the shapes and designs available for product packaging.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,310,108 to Motoyama et al. discloses one exemplary design for a dispenser wherein the interior chamber of a product container may be pressurized with a propellant container filled with pressurized propellant. In use, pressure in the interior chamber allows product to be dispensed through a discharge device. In another example, U.S. Patent No. 4,147,283 to Mascia et al. discloses a dispensing apparatus including a propellant container disposed in the interior chamber of a product container. Once actuated, pressurized propellant flows out of the propellant container to pressurize the interior chamber of the product container. During activation, increased pressure in the interior chamber forces product to be dispensed through a discharge device. However, neither Motoyama et al. nor Mascia et al. disclose a dispensing apparatus which can decrease pressure on the product in the interior chamber without releasing any substantial additional product or propellant with the discharge device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to address and obviate problems and shortcomings of conventional dispensing apparatus. More particularly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a dispensing apparatus that is adapted to selectively increase pressure on a product in the interior chamber by releasing pressurized propellant from a propellant container.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a dispensing apparatus adapted to selectively decrease pressure on a product in the interior chamber without releasing any substantial additional product or propellant with the discharge device.

To achieve the foregoing and other objects in accordance with the present invention, dispensing apparatus are provided. Each dispensing apparatus is adapted to be used with a propellant container including pressurized propellant. The dispensing apparatus may comprise a product container defining an interior chamber adapted to receive a product to be dispensed, and a discharge device adapted to discharge a product from the product container. The dispensing apparatus are adapted to selectively decrease pressure on a product in the interior chamber without releasing any substantial additional product or propellant with the discharge device.

Still other advantages and objects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description wherein there are shown and described alternative exemplary embodiments of this invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different, obvious aspects, objects and embodiments, all without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings, objects and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative and exemplary in nature only, and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the present invention, it is believed the same will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an exemplary dispensing apparatus having an actuator with two modes of operation in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a partially broken away housing displaying the interior chamber of the product container;

FIG. 2 is a vertical sectional view of the dispensing apparatus of FIG. 1, shown generally in a charging position;

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary sectional view of FIG. 2, illustrating enlarged portions of the propellant container and housing in the charging position;

FIG. 4 is a vertical sectional view of the dispensing apparatus of FIG. 1, illustrated generally in a neutral position;

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary sectional view of FIG. 4, illustrating enlarged portions of the propellant container and housing in the neutral position;

FIG. 6 is a partially exploded perspective view of a dispensing apparatus of FIG. 1, illustrated with a partially broken away housing displaying the interior chamber of the product container;

FIG. 7 is a partially exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a dispensing apparatus including a removable closure and having an actuator with three modes of operation, in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a partially exploded vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a partially exploded vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus including a removable closure and having an actuator with three modes of operation, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus, wherein the product container includes a bladder adapted to receive propellant;

FIG. 11 is vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the product container includes a piston dividing the interior chamber into a pressure chamber for propellant and a lower chamber for product;

FIG. 12 is vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the product container includes a piston dividing the interior chamber into an upper chamber for product and a lower chamber for propellant;

FIG. 13 is vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the product container includes a bladder adapted to receive propellant;

FIG. 14 is vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the product container includes a bladder adapted to receive product; and

FIG. 15 is vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus comprising a water gun in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

DETATLED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Turning now to the drawing figures, wherein the same element numbers indicate the same or corresponding structures throughout the views, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary dispensing apparatus 20 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention comprising a product container 22 including a housing 24 shown partially broken away to reveal details within the interior chamber 26. The housings of the present invention may be fabricated from many different materials such as recyclable materials. For instance, the housing of the present invention may comprise paper products, metals, plastics, or composites. In one particular embodiment, the housing is fabricated from a thermoplastic material.

The dispensing apparatus of all of the embodiments of the present invention include a discharge device (e.g., 28, 828), such as a product dispensing nozzle, for dispensing a product 30. In certain embodiments, product 30 is delivered through a conduit 32, such as a tube or hose, to the discharge device. In other embodiments, product is dispensed directly through the discharge device without a conduit.

The discharge devices (e.g., 28, 828) of all of the embodiments of this invention may include various alternative nozzles according to the particular application. In one exemplary embodiment, a nozzle may be selected that includes a vapor tap in the valve of the nozzle to allow mixture of propellant and product as the product is dispensed. The discharge devices may be selected from many different types of nozzles and may also be selected from a variety of other devices. For instance, the discharge devices are not limited to a nozzle but may be selected according to the particular application. Exemplary discharge devices include but are not limited to a scrubbing head, a shaving head, a cheese nozzle, a dispensing tube, devices with independent product/gas (air/gas assisted) designs, or the like. In another example, the discharge devices may take the form of a member defining a passage for the product 30. In still other examples, the discharge devices may comprise an end of the conduit or a passageway through the product container.

Each of the dispensing apparatus of the present invention may be provided with an optional level indicator for indicating a fluid level. As shown in FIG. 1, for example, the dispensing apparatus 20 may include an optional level indicator 34 for determining the level 30a of the product 30. For instance, the optional level indicator may be formed as a translucent or transparent strip of material such that the product level may be viewed directly through the otherwise opaque walls of the product container. Alternatively, the product container may be entirely, or at least partially, translucent or transparent such that the level of the product may be observed directly through the product container.

Each of the dispensing apparatus of the present invention may also be provided with an optional pressure indicator for measuring the pressure in the pressure chamber of the dispensing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 1, for example, a pressure indicator 36 may also be provided for measuring the pressure in the pressure chamber 25 of the product container 22. For instance, the pressure indicator 36 may be formed as a pressure gauge as shown in FIG. 1. It will be appreciated that other pressure indicators may also be provided. For instance, the product containers of the present invention may be provided with a pressure sensitive transducer or pressure sensitive material that changes color at different pressures.

The dispensing apparatus of the present invention are adapted to be used with a propellant container 40. The propellant container 40 houses a pressurized propellant 42 such as a pressurized gas. The propellant container 40 may also include another fluid 43 and/or solid that replenishes the propellant container 40 with pressurized propellant 42 as the propellant 42 is dispensed into the pressure chamber. For example, as pressurized propellant 42 is released from the container 40, portions of the fluid 43 may evaporate until the pressurized propellant within the interior chamber 26 reaches equilibrium conditions.

The pressurized propellant 42 used with all of the embodiments of the present invention may be neutral in nature. For example, a neutral propellant may be transparent and/or scentless such that it doesn't affect the color and/or scent of the product 30. Alternatively, the pressurized propellant of many of the embodiments may have a color and/or scent (e.g., inherent in the properties of the propellant) that affects the overall color/scent of the dispensed product. For instance, a the dispensing apparatus could include a nozzle having a vapor tap in the valve of the nozzle such that the propellant is mixed with the product as it is dispensed, thereby modifying the color/scent of the product. It is understood that other properties of the dispensed product could also be modified depending on the characteristics of the propellant. For instance, the propellant could have disinfectant properties to sanitize the product as it is dispensed. In other examples, the propellant may mix and/or react (e.g., chemically or otherwise) with the product as it is dispensed to affect the properties of the dispensed product.

As described above, the propellant may inherently have different properties (e.g., color, scent, etc.) to affect the dispensed product. Alternatively, the dispensing apparatus of all of the embodiments of the present invention may additionally and/or alternatively include a source of modifying additive to provide an additive to mix and/or react with the dispensed product, thereby achieving similar results. The source of modifying additive, for instance, may be located inside the propellant container. In one example, the additive is mixed with the propellant 42 in the propellant container 40. In another particular example, the modifying additive may be mixed with the liquid 43 of the propellant container 40, thereby providing a modified pressurized propellant. In still other embodiments, the source of modifying additive may be at least partially located outside the propellant container 40. For instance, the source of modifying additive could be located inside the interior chamber 26 or outside of the housing 24. The source of modifying additive may be adapted to introduce modifying additive to mix and/or react with the pressurized propellant in the pressure chamber 25 and/or the product 30 in the interior chamber 26. In still other embodiments, the source could introduce modifying additive at the discharge device (e.g., 28, 828) to be dispensed with the product 30. For instance, a source of modifying additive (e.g., a container containing the modifying additive) could be provided in fluid communication with the discharge device (e.g., 28, 828) and be discharged (e.g., by a venturi effect or otherwise) with the product 30. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the source includes an additive container removably attached to the product container 22 for fluid communication with the discharge device (e.g., 28, 828). Fluid communication may be achieved, for instance, with a conduit providing fluid communication between the discharge device and the additive container. The additive container may be replaced in order to provide additional additives or a different type of additive. Modifying additives may include perfumes, dyes, disinfectants, or other components to modify the dispensed product as desired.

In the example shown, the propellant container 40 includes a valve at one end. As seen in FIGS. 3 for example, the valve may include a valve stem 41 for controlling the release of the pressurized propellant 42 from the propellant container 40. As shown in FIG. 5, the valve stem 41 is biased in an upward position wherein pressurized propellant 42 is prevented from being released from the container 40. Once the valve stem 41 is displaced downward relative to the container 40 (e.g., as seen in FIG. 3 for example), the pressurized propellant 42 is capable of being released, e.g., through the valve stem 41, into the pressure chamber for charging the pressure chamber with pressurized propellant. A sealing member 66 may further be included to provide an air and/or liquid seal between the dispensing apparatus and the propellant container 40. The sealing member 66 may be provided separately, integrally formed, removably secured or otherwise attached to a portion of the dispensing apparatus and/or the propellant container 40.

The various embodiments of the dispensing apparatus of the present invention may also include one or more actuators to cause the propellant container to selectively increase the pressure on a product or to selectively decrease pressure on a product in the interior chamber. The actuators throughout the embodiments of the present invention may have similar and/or identical structure. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, the dispensing apparatus 20 may include an actuator 38 adapted to cause the pressure chamber 25 to selectively vent pressurized propellant and/or to cause a propellant container 40 to selectively charge the pressure chamber 25 with pressurized propellant 42.

In many of the embodiments of the present invention, the interior chamber (e.g., 26) comprises the pressure chamber (e.g., 25). For example, as best illustrated in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 2, 8, 9, and 15, the interior chamber comprises a pressure chamber that allows contact between the propellant in the pressure chamber and the product in the interior chamber. In another embodiment, the pressure chamber may be located within the interior chamber. For instance, FIG. 10 depicts a pressure chamber 325 in the form of a bladder 364 that is located entirely within the interior chamber 326. While not shown, it is contemplated that the pressure chamber may be oriented such that it only partially extends within the interior chamber. For instance, a bladder may be provided that only partially extends into the interior chamber when charged with pressurized propellant. In another example, the pressurized propellant may actuate a piston or other member that extends partially or entirely within the interior chamber to increase the pressure on a product in the interior chamber. In still another embodiment, a pressure chamber may be provided that is located entirely outside of the interior chamber for increasing the pressure on a product in the interior chamber. For example, an inflatable sleeve may be placed around the product container. Inflating the sleeve would compress the product container, thereby increasing the pressure on a product in the interior chamber. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the actuator 38 may comprise a compression member 52 having a base 54 provided with a plunger 56 for pressing a portion of the propellant container 40 against a portion of the product container 22. For example, the compression member 52 may include a screw plunger 56 engaging a threaded aperture 58 defined in a wall of the product container 22. The actuator 38 may be located adjacent any wall of the product container 22. For instance, as shown in FIG. 2, the actuator 38 may be located adjacent a bottom wall 60 of the product container 22 with the threaded aperture 58 defined in the bottom wall 60.

The actuator 38 in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention may also include a shroud 62. The shroud 62 can assist in aligning the actuator 38 relative to the wall (e.g., bottom wall 60) of the dispensing apparatus 20. As shown in FIG. 2, the optional shroud 62, if provided, may be formed separately from the base 54 and then glued, melted, mechanically fastened, connected by mechanical interference, or otherwise attached to the base 54. Alternatively, the optional shroud 62 may be formed integrally with the base 54 (e.g., by an injection molding process or the like). The actuator 38 can also be formed without a shroud for various reasons (e.g., to simplify the design and/or reduce material costs).

The actuator 38 may also include, or be provided with a sealing member 64 that may provide an air and/or liquid seal between the actuator 38 and the product container 22. It will be appreciated that a plurality or all of the components of the actuator 38 (e.g., the base 54, plunger 56, shroud 62, sealing member 64, etc.) may be removably connected, integrally connected or otherwise formed as one or more pieces, to reduce the number of parts.

It should also be emphasized that other actuators can be substituted in lieu of the actuator 38 illustrated in the figures. For instance, the actuator can be formed as a slide valve, a push-button valve or a spring loaded actuator to position the dispensing apparatus in a "charged" position, a "vented" position, and/or a "neutral" position. A series of locating grooves can also be provided, in place of the screw threads, as an alternative structure for orienting the compression member 52 relative to the housing 24. The dispensing apparatus of the present invention may also include a propellant receiving port for selective fluid communication between the propellant container 40 and the pressure chamber. For instance, as shown in FIG. 2, the dispensing apparatus 20 may include a propellant receiving port 46 for selective fluid communication between the propellant container 40 and the pressure chamber 25. "Selective fluid communication" is used herein to connote the ability to modify the extent (if any) of fluid communication between one location and another location.

The propellant receiving port of the present invention may take many forms. For instance, as shown in FIG. 2, the propellant receiving port 46 may include a housing 48 defining an interior area 50 for receiving the propellant container 40. In some applications, the housing 48 may be at least partially located within the interior chamber 26 of the product container 22. In one particular embodiment, the housing 48 is located substantially entirely within the interior chamber 26, as shown in FIG. 2.

The housing 48 may alternatively be at least partially or entirely located outside the interior chamber 26 (not shown). Locating the housing 48 at least partially or entirely outside the interior chamber may provide a limited or significant savings in interior chamber space that may otherwise be used to contain additional product and/or pressurized propellant. The housing 48 may also be located at least partially or entirely outside the interior chamber^' 26 for aesthetic reasons or to simplify production of the dispensing apparatus. In one example, a propellant container 40 may simply be adapted to press against a portion of the product container 22 without being received by the interior chamber 26. A user could change the chamber 25 by simply pressing the propellant container 40 against the product container 22 at an appropriate location (e.g., a propellant receiving port located on and or within the outside surface of the housing 24 of the product container 22). The propellant container could also be removably or permanently fastened to the product container 22. For example, the propellant container could be snapped, screwed, or otherwise mechanically connected to the bottom or other portion of the product container. In other examples, an actuator may be included to connect the propellant container to the product container and or cause or assist in charging the pressure chamber 25 with pressurized propellant. The propellant receiving port 46 can also define a seat 47 for the stem 41 of the propellant container 40. The seat 47, if provided, may be adapted to receive the stem 41 such that a portion of the propellant container 40 (e.g., an end portion of the stem 41) may press against a portion of the housing 22 (e.g., an end surface of the seat 47).

The propellant receiving port 46 may also be in selective fluid communication with the pressure chamber 25. For instance, the propellant receiving port 46 may be provided with a regulating device 53 adapted to function as a one-way valve for selective charging. As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the regulating device 53 might comprise a one-way valve and/or membrane adapted to at least substantially allow one-way passage of gas; permitting propellant gas 42 to charge the pressure chamber 25 while preventing the pressurized gas from venting out of the pressure chamber 25. In addition, the valve and/or membrane might be impermeable to liquids, thereby preventing liquid product 30 from exiting the interior chamber 26 through the propellant receiving port 46 and might also prevent passage of liquid propellant 43 from the container 40 to the pressure chamber 25 of the product container 22.

The dispensing apparatus 20 of FIG. 1 may also have a venting valve 44, such as a conventional push button or sliding valve. The valve 44 allows a user to disable the dispensing apparatus by selectively venting pressurized propellant material from the pressure chamber 25 without dispensing substantial additional product 30 from the interior chamber. Moreover, disabling the dispensing apparatus by venting the pressure chamber 25 is possible without releasing any substantial additional product or propellant with the discharge device 28. Disabling the dispensing apparatus may prevent inadvertent discharge of material and might be regarded as a safety feature as discussed more fully below. Although not shown, the venting valve may be provided in many of the embodiments of the present invention and may be located in various positions to vent propellant material. For instance, the venting valve may be located on the upper portion of the dispensing apparatus in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-9, 11, 14 and 15 or on the lower portion of the dispensing apparatus of FIGS. 12 or 14 for example. The product containers of the present invention may also be adapted to fill and/or recharge the dispensing apparatus 20 with product 30. For example, the product container 22 may be provided with a valve, closure, or other device adapted to allow the interior chamber to be filled with additional product. For instance, a valve or nipple may be provided that is adapted to provide fluid communication with the interior chamber. In another embodiment, a removable or non-removable closure is provided that allows the interior chamber to be refilled with additional product. As shown in FIG. 1, for instance, a refill port 68 is provided that comprises a removable cap to fill or replenish the product container 22 with an initial amount of product 30, an additional amount of product 30, or a different type of product. In addition, or alternatively, a portion of the container may be temporarily removed for refilling the container 22 with product 30. For instance, as shown in FIG. 7, the container may be formed with a closure 170 (e.g., an upper portion, a top, lid or the like), having exterior screw threads 172 for engaging interior screw threads 174 of a lower portion of the product container. After filling the interior chamber 26 with product, the two portions may be screwed together to form the product container 22 having an air-tight and liquid-tight interior chamber 26. Although not shown, it will be appreciated that the closure 170 may alternatively be provided with interior threads for engaging exterior threads formed on the lower portion of the product container. It is understood that the closure 170 could alternatively be attached by a snapping connection or other fastening arrangement. It will also be appreciated that one or more of the above valve, closures and/or devices may be provided alone or in combination with each of the embodiments of the present invention. Moreover, the positioning of the valve, closures, and/or devices may vary throughout the various embodiments of the present invention.

The various exemplary embodiments of this invention may include dispensing apparatus with mechanical elements adapted to selectively vent pressurized propellant from the pressure chamber 25 while substantially preventing additional release of pressurized propellant 42 from the propellant container 40. Alternatively, or in addition, the various embodiments of this invention may include dispensing apparatus with mechanical elements adapted to selectively charge the interior chamber with pressurized propellant. Throughout this application, "selective venting" is intended to mean substantially releasing the pressurized propellant, or alternatively, as continuously or incrementally releasing selective amounts of pressurized propellant from the pressure chamber to reduce the pressure within the pressure chamber to a predetermined minimum (e.g., atmospheric pressure) when not in use. With one example of selective venting, the dispensing apparatus is designed to allow relatively slow venting while permitting the pressure of the pressure chamber to reach substantially atmospheric pressure depending upon the solubility of the propellant in the product 30 in certain embodiments of the invention. Thus, "selective venting" may allow for a relatively slow discharge of pressurized propellant from the pressure chamber to prevent substantial loss of pressure over a short period of time. A slow pressure discharge may be desirable when changing pressurized propellant containers or when the user begins to vent the pressure chamber but then quickly decides to repressurize the pressure chamber without substantial pressure loss.

Similarly, "selective charging" throughout this application is intended to connote substantially charging the pressure chamber with pressurized propellant 42, or alternatively, as continuously or incrementally charging the pressure chamber with selective amounts of pressurized propellant 42 to raise the pressure within the pressure chamber to a certain level desired for dispensing of the product 30. In one particular application, the propellant and the product act together to charge the pressure chamber. For instance, in certain embodiments of the present invention, the vapor pressure of the product 30 in the interior chamber may contribute to the pressure within the pressure chamber while the pressurized propellant 42 provides the additional pressure desired to dispense the product 30.

FIG. 6 illustrates a partially exploded view of a dispensing apparatus 20 and propellant container 40 also illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. The dispensing apparatus 20 has two modes of operation (i.e., wherein the actuator 38 is in a "neutral" position or a "charge" position). As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6, the "neutral" and "charge" positions may be marked, for instance with indicia, on the outer surface of the dispensing apparatus 20. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the charge position is achieved after sufficient rotation of the actuator such that a portion of the plunger 56 engages the propellant container to ram the propellant container in a charging position. The dispensing apparatus may be designed such that different charging rotational positions cause the pressure chamber to charge at different rates. For instance, maximal rotation of the actuator 38 may maximize the rate at which the pressure chamber is charged, thereby quickly charging the pressure chamber to its maximum pressure. Alternatively, a smaller degree of rotation may cause the pressure chamber to charge at a slower rate. Charging at a slower rate would allow the user to control and monitor the pressure in the pressure chamber (e.g., with the pressure indicator 36) to achieve a desired pressure that is less than the maximum pressure. Once the desired pressure is obtained, the user may rotate the actuator 38 in the opposite direction to the neutral position. Accordingly, the dispensing apparatus 20 allows for selectively charging which may enhance the fluid stream characteristics of the product as it is dispensed with the discharge device.

The dispensing apparatus 20 is initially in the first mode of operation until the actuator 38 moves from the neutral position to the charged position wherein the dispensing apparatus 20 enters the second mode of operation. In the neutral position, the propellant container 40 and propellant receiving port 46 are arranged to prevent charging of the interior chamber 26 with pressurized propellant 42. Moreover, the one-way valve regulating device 53 prevents product 30 or any propellant from exiting the interior chamber 26 through the propellant receiving port 46.

In use, the dispensing apparatus 20 is first provided. The actuator 38 is removed from the product container 22. The sealer 66, if provided, is either already attached to the product container 22 or propellant container 40, or is inserted over the stem 41 of the propellant container 40. The propellant container 40, together with any sealer 66, are inserted into the interior area 50 of the housing 48. The regulator 38 together with a sealer 64, if provided, are then inserted such that the plunger 56 begins to enter the aperture 58 defined in the wall 60 of the housing 22 until the exterior threads of the plunger 56 are engaged with the interior threads of the aperture 58.

The actuator 38 is then rotated until the dispensing apparatus 20 reaches the second mode of operation wherein the actuator 38 reaches a "charged" position as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. As the actuator 38 reaches the charged position, the plunger 56 forces the stem 41 of the propellant container 40 against the seat 47 defined by the housing 48. Once seated, the stem 41 is displaced downwardly relative to the propellant container 40 and thereafter dispenses pressurized propellant 42 through the regulator 53 and then into the pressure chamber 25 of the product container 22. Pressurized propellant 42 continues to enter the pressure chamber 25 until the pressure is equalized between the product container 22 and propellant container 40.

With the actuator 38 located in the charged position, product 30 may be dispensed through the discharge device 28. As the product 30 is dispensed from the interior chamber 26, the pressure chamber 25 is re-charged by the propellant container 40. In order to discontinue charging, the actuator 38 may be rotated to a "neutral" position wherein the plunger 56 retreats from the aperture 58 such that the stem 41 of the product container is again biased outward. With the stem 41 biased outward, no additional propellant 42 is distributed from the propellant container 40.

In the neutral position, pressurized propellant remains trapped within the pressure chamber 25 by the regulator 53 of the propellant receiving port 46. At this time, additional product 30 may be dispensed through the discharge device 28 with the pressure stored in the pressure chamber 25 until the pressure within the pressure chamber 25 is sufficiently depleted. The propellant container 40 may also be replaced or removed without losing pressure stored within the pressure chamber 25 of the product container 22. For instance, a new propellant container having a different pressure, color, and/or fragrance, for example, may be installed to give the product 30 different characteristics. Alternatively, the pressure within the pressure chamber 25 may be dispensed through the venting valve 44 to prevent any subsequent dispensing of product through the discharge device 28 until the pressure chamber 25 is re-charged with propellant 42 from the propellant container 40.

FIGS. 7-8 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a dispensing apparatus 120 including a removable closure or upper portion 170 and an actuator 138 with three modes of operation (i.e., a "charge" position, a "neutral" position, and a "vent" position). As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the closure or upper portion 170 is removable to allow initial insertion of product 30, insertion of additional product 30, or insertion of another type of product. The closer or upper portion 170 may include exterior threads 172 that are adapted to engage interior threads 174 formed in an inner portion of the product container 122. Although not shown, it is understood that the upper portion 170 may alternatively be formed with interior threads that mount on exterior threads formed on an outer surface of the product container 122. The upper portion 170, therefore, may be mounted to form an air-tight and fluid-tight product container 122 for delivery of a product 30 through a discharge device 28. It is understood that the refill port 68, as illustrated in FIG. 1, or other devices described above, may be used in combination or as an alternative to the removable upper portion 170 described herein and that all embodiments of this invention may incorporate either one or all mechanisms in order to allow access to the interior chamber of the product container.

As also shown in FIG. 8, the product container 122 allows the actuator 138 to vent, as well as charge and maintain the dispensing apparatus 120 in a neutral mode of operation. Allowing selection of all three modes by a single actuator 138 simplifies the operation of the dispensing apparatus 120.

In one embodiment, a propellant receiving port 146 may be in selective fluid communication with the pressure chamber 125. For instance, the propellant receiving port 146 may be provided with a modified regulating device 153. The regulating device 153 allows passage of pressurized propellant 42 into the pressure chamber 125 to charge the product container 122 and also allows pressurized propellant to vent through the propellant receiving port 146 to vent the pressure chamber 125. The regulating device 153 may prevent passage of product, such as product 30 from exiting through the regulating device 153 while liquid propellant 43 may also be prevented from entering the interior chamber 126 through the regulating device 153. The regulating device 153 may take the form of a valve or membrane for example. In another example, the regulating device 153 could be designed to allow propellant to pass at different rates depending on the flow direction of the propellant. For example, the regulating device 153 could have a relatively low resistance to propellant passing through the regulating device 153 while changing the pressure chamber 125 while having a relatively high resistance to propellant flow that is venting from the pressure chamber 125. Such an arrangement would allow the pressure chamber 125 to quickly charge with propellant while allowing discharge at a slower rate. It is understood that the regulating device 153 could also be designed to allow slow charging of the pressure chamber 125 and allow quick discharge of the propellant.

The housing 148 is arranged to elevate the regulating device 153. While the upper portion of the housing 148 is illustrated as approximately level with an upper end 123 of the housing 124, it is understood that the housing 148 may be arranged at any height depending on the particular application. In one embodiment, the height of the housing 148 is selected to be higher than the highest level 30a of product 30 within the interior chamber 126 of the housing 124 in order to permit venting of the pressurized propellant within the pressure chamber 125 through the regulating device 153 without interference from the product 30.

In use, the interior chamber 126 is filled with an appropriate amount and type of product 30. The upper portion 170 is attached (e.g. screwed together) with the lower portion to form an air-tight and liquid-tight product container 122. The actuator 138 is then rotated to the charge position wherein the pressure chamber 125 of the product container 122 is charged such that the product 30 is capable of being dispensed in a manner similar to the embodiment described in FIGS. 1-6 above.

The actuator 138 may also be rotated back to a neutral position wherein additional pressurized propellent 42 is prevented from entering the pressure chamber 125 while the pressurized propellant within the pressure chamber 125 is prevented from escaping through the propellant receiving port 146. Preventing propellant discharge from the pressure chamber 125 may occur, for example, due to an air-tight fit between the stem 41 and the seat 47. Alternatively, or in addition, the seal 66 may provide an airtight fit between the dispensing apparatus 120 and the propellant container 40, thereby preventing leakage of pressurized propellant from the pressure chamber 125 through the propellant receiving port 146 when the actuator 138 is in the charge or neutral positions. The actuator 138 may also be rotated to a vent position wherein the pressure chamber 125 is discharged. After rotating the actuator to the vent position, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the seal 66 and stem 41 allow passage of propellant material through the regulating device 153, the interior area 150 of the housing 148, a lower space 176 between a bottom wall 160 and a sealing member 164, and the opening 178 until the pressure within the pressure chamber 125 reaches atmospheric pressure.

As with the embodiment of FIG. 1, the dispensing apparatus 120 may be designed such that different charging rotational positions of the actuator 138 cause the pressure chamber 125 to charge at different rates. As illustrated in FIG. 7, different length markings may be provided to indicate the charge rate based on the rotational position of the actuator. In addition, the dispensing apparatus 120 may be designed such that different rotational positions of the actuator 138 cause varying venting rates of pressurized propellant from the pressure chamber 125. As shown in FIG. 7, for example, the actuator is located in a maximum venting position wherein the pressure chamber 125 is vented in a relatively quick manner. The actuator 138 may also be rotated to a position where the interior chamber 125 vents in a relatively slow manner such that the user may monitor the pressure indicator 136 as the propellant is released from the pressure chamber. Once the desired pressure is achieved, the actuator 138 may again be rotated to a neutral position.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded vertical sectional view of a dispensing apparatus 220 including a removable upper portion and having an actuator 238 with three modes of operation. The product container 222 includes an interior chamber 226 and contains a housing 248 defining an interior area 250 similar to the housing 148 and interior area 150 of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 and described above. The embodiment of FIG. 9 also includes a propellant receiving port 246 and regulation device 253 similar to the propellant receiving portion 146 and regulation device 153 of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 and described above.

The actuator 238 may be rotated between a charging and neutral position in a similar manner as describe in the embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8 above. However, the pressure chamber 225 of the product container 222 is not vented until a channel 261 defined by the bottom wall 260 at least partially aligns with an aperture or channel 263 defined by the sealing member 264 and a channel 255 defined in the base 254 of the compression member 252. The sealing member 264 provides an air tight seal, preventing any pressurized propellant in the interior area 250 from escaping between the bottom wall 260 and the actuator 238 when the actuator 238 is in the neutral and charged positions.

As with the embodiments described above, the dispensing apparatus 220 may be designed such that different charging rotational positions of the actuator 238 cause the pressure chamber 225 to charge at different rates. In addition, the dispensing apparatus 220 may be designed such that different rotational positions (i.e., wherein the channel 261 at least partially aligns with the aperture or channel 263 and the channel 255) cause varying venting rates of pressurized propellant from the pressure chamber 225. For instance, if the venting passages 261, 263, 255 are sufficiently sized (e.g., oblong cross- section or sufficiently larger circular cross-section), a slower venting rate may be achieved by only partially aligning the venting passages 261, 263, 255 while maximum venting can be achieved by rotating the actuator 238 such that all of the venting passages 261, 263, 255 are at least substantially aligned. Accordingly, a user may control the charging and venting of the interior chamber 225 while monitoring a pressure indicator (not shown) provided on the dispensing apparatus 220. Once the pressure chamber 225 reaches the desired pressure, the actuator 238 may be rotated back to the neutral position.

The embodiments of FIGS. 1-9 and 15 describe exemplary embodiments of dispensing apparatus wherein the pressurized propellant in the interior chamber is in direct contact with the product 30. Direct contact may result in a portion of the propellant material dissolving in the product, thereby possibly modifying the characteristics of the product. Situations wherein the product 30 is modified by the pressurized propellant may be desirable. For instance, the fragrance, color, composition, or other properties of the product may be modified. However, in certain instances, it is necessary to isolate the product from the propellant to prevent any mixing, thereby avoiding any undesirable changes in the product. FIGS. 10-14 illustrate several alternative exemplary embodiments for at least partially separating and/or isolating the propellant from the product. All of these embodiments may incorporate features of the dispensing apparatus of FIGS. 1-9 or 15.

FIG. 10 illustrates one exemplary embodiment wherein a dispensing apparatus 320 is adapted for more positively separating, or isolating, the pressurized propellant 42 from the product 30. The actuator assembly 338 may have features and function in substantially the same manner as any of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-9. As described above and/or illustrated in the drawings, the embodiments of FIGS. 1-9 disclose a dispensing apparatus wherein the interior chamber comprises the pressure chamber. In contrast, FIG. 10 discloses a pressure chamber 325 comprising a bladder 364 that are located entirely within the interior chamber 326. While not shown, pressure chamber 325, such as bladder 364, may be partially rather than entirely located within the interior chamber 326. The pressurized propellant 42 in the dispensing apparatus 320 is released from the propellant container 40 into a bladder 364 that isolates the propellant 42 from the product 30.

The bladder 364 may be situated within the product container 322 in a number of ways. For instance, the bladder 364 may be attached to a protrusion 319 of the housing 348 with a fastener 366. Moreover, the interior chamber 326 may be formed as one chamber similar to the interior chamber 26 of the product container 22. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 10, the interior chamber 326 may be formed with an upper interior chamber 327a and a lower interior chamber 327b, separated by a partition wall 315. The lower interior chamber 327b may accommodate the bladder 364 while reducing the maximum volume of the bladder 364, thereby conserving propellant 42. If formed with a partition wall 315, an aperture 313 may be formed therethrough to allow passage of a dispensing conduit 32, such as a tube. The aperture 313 may be formed at any location on the partition wall 315. For instance, the aperture 313 may be formed at a peripheral edge of the partition wall 315 to allow the bladder 364 to form around the dispensing conduit 32 located adjacent the housing 324. Moreover, the aperture 313 may be provided with a grommet (not shown), such as a metal or plastic grommet, to minimize wear on the conduit 32. It will be understood that the conduit 32 may have sufficient rigidity in order to resist collapsing due to the pressure exerted by the bladder 364 when pressurized.

FIG. 11 illustrates another exemplary dispensing apparatus 420 for use where it might be desirable to separate the pressurized propellant 42 from the product 30 without any need for a bladder. Indeed, the interior chamber 426 comprises the pressure chamber 425, wherein a piston 468 isolates the propellant in the pressure chamber 425 from the product 30 in the interior chamber 426. The actuator 438 of the dispensing apparatus 420 may have features and function in substantially the same manner as any of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-9.

The piston 468 is adapted to reciprocate vertically within the interior chamber 426 of the product container 422 substantially along the housing 424 in the directions indicated by the double sided arrows in FIG. 11. A dispensing conduit 32, such as a tube, may be attached to the piston 468 by engaging a protrusion 470 having an interior channel 471. The end of the conduit 32 may be press fit (as shown in FIG. 11), adhered, mechanically connected, or otherwise attached to the protrusion 470. For clarity, a portion of the end of the conduit 32 is shown broken away in FIG. 11 to illustrate an exemplary press fit connection between the conduit 32 and the protrusion 470 such that the conduit 32 is in fluid communication with the channel 471. The housing 448 may also be provided with an optional extension 419 to extend the travel path of the piston 468. The extension 419 may be hollow (as shown in FIG. 11) to reduce the weight and reduce the material costs of the dispensing apparatus 420. Alternatively, the extension 419 may be solid (not shown) with a through channel for selective fluid communication between the pressure chamber 425 and the propellant container 40.

FIG. 12 illustrates another exemplary dispensing apparatus 520 including an actuator 538 that may have features and function in substantially the same manner as any of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-9. The interior chamber 526 comprises the pressure chamber 525 as illustrated in FIG. 12. The dispensing apparatus 520 includes a piston 568 separating the product 30 stored in the upper portion of the interior chamber 526 from the propellant stored in the pressure chamber 525 of the interior chamber 526. The piston 568 is adapted to reciprocate vertically within the product container 522 substantially along the housing 524. The discharge device 28 may be provided with a conduit similar to conduit 32. However, as shown in FIG. 12, a conduit is not necessary since the discharge device 28 is always in direct contact with the product 30 located adjacent the discharge device 28. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the upper surface 569 of the piston 568 may be contoured to the shape of the upper surface of the interior chamber 526, thereby maximizing the amount of stored product that may be dispensed. Similarly, the piston 568 defines a lower housing receiving cavity 567 adapted to fit about the housing 548.

FIG. 13 illustrates yet another exemplary dispensing apparatus 620 including an actuator 638 that may have features and function in substantially the same manner as any of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-9. The dispensing apparatus 620 includes a pressure chamber 625 comprising a bladder 664 that are located entirely within the interior chamber 626. While not shown, the bladder 664 may be partially, rather than entirely located within the interior chamber 626. As shown in FIG. 13, the bladder 664 is attached to the housing 648. In one embodiment, the bladder 664 may be attached to the housing 648 in a manner similar to the attachment of the bladder 364 to the housing 348 described above. The bladder 664 is placed at least partially within the interior chamber 626 of the housing 624 and is adapted to receive pressurized propellant 42 from the propellant container 40. As with the embodiment of FIG. 12, the discharge device 28 is not required to have a conduit since the product 30 is in direct communication with the discharge device 28. However, a conduit may be desired in order to access trapped portions of product (e.g., trapped product located in lower portions of the interior chamber 626 of the product container 622). In such an application, the conduit may be made with sufficient rigidity to avoid being collapsed by the bladder. Gravity may also encourage the product to drop to the lower portions of the interior chamber 626 for recovery by the optional conduit.

In use, the actuator 638 may be oriented in a charging position or condition such that the bladder 664 is filled with pressurized propellant. The inflated bladder 664 increases the pressure of the product 30 located in the interior chamber 626. The discharge device 28 may then be used to dispense the product 30.

FIG. 14 illustrates a dispensing apparatus 720 including an actuator 738 that may have features and function in substantially the same manner as any of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1-9. The interior chamber 726 of the product container 722 comprises the pressure chamber 725 wherein a bladder 764 isolates the product from the propellant. The bladder 764 is located within interior chamber 726 of the housing 724. The bladder 764 is in direct fluid communication with the discharge device 28 such that pressure within the interior chamber 726 may force the product 30 to be dispensed through the discharge device 28 when activated. The bladder 764 may be shaped to encourage efficient dispensing of product. For instance, the upper portions of the bladder may be fabricated to conform to the interior surface of the upper portion of the housing 724 to maximize the amount of product dispensed.

FIG. 15 illustrates a dispensing apparatus 820 in the form of a water gun or squirt gun for discharging product 30 such as water. The dispensing apparatus 820 similarly includes an actuator 838 for charging the pressure chamber 825 of the housing 824 of the product container 822. The actuator may have features and function in substantially the same manner as any of the exemplary embodiments described in FIGS. 1-9. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the interior chamber 826 comprises the pressure chamber 825 wherein the propellent is illustrated in direct contact with the product 30 similar to the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1-9. The internal structure and function of the dispensing apparatus 820 may have features and function in substantially the same way as dispensing apparatus of FIGS. 1-9. It is also understood that the propellent may alternatively be separated or isolated from the product 30 by incorporating features such as bladders, pistons, membranes or the like, as described with respect to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 10-14, for example.

As with the above embodiments, the dispensing apparatus 820 may include a valve, closure, or other device adapted to allow the interior chamber to be filled with additional product. For example, one or more refill ports 868 may be provided to allow the apparatus 820 to be refilled with additional product 30. Such a refill port 868 may also be used to attach a supplemental storage tank to supply additional product. For example, a supplemental tank may be filled with product 30 and then attached to the refill port 868 such that the interior of the supplemental storage tank is in fluid communication with the interior chamber 826 of the housing 824.

A propellant container 40 containing pressurized propellant 42 is inserted within a housing 848. A conduit 832 or other tube may be included for delivering product 30 to be dispensed through the discharge device 828. A switching device or valve 880 may be actuated by a trigger 882 or lever, in order to permit the flow of product 30 through the conduit 832 when the pressure chamber 825 is charged with pressurized propellant. The switching device and trigger, for example, may be of the type disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 5,074,437 to D'Andrade et al., issued December 24, 1991, the entire disclosure herein incorporated by reference.

Although not illustrated, the dispensing apparatus 820 may also include a level indicator and/or pressure indicator similar to the level indicator 34 and the pressure indicator 36 of the dispensing apparatus 20.

In use, the actuator 838 of the water gun 820 is first removed and a propellant container 40 is inserted in the housing 848. The actuator 838 is manipulated to cause the product container 40 to charge the pressure chamber 825 with pressurized propellant. The trigger 882 may then be activated, thereafter causing the switching device or valve 880 to allow the product 30 to travel through the conduit 832 to be dispensed through the discharge device 828. While FIG. 15 illustrates a conduit 832, it is understood that a trigger and/or switching device could actuate the discharge device 828 directly, without an intermediate conduit, to dispense the product.

It will be appreciated that the dispensing apparatus of the present invention contributes to the maintenance of the natural elements. The dispensing apparatus may reduce the volume of volatile organic components released into the air, water and/or soil. For example, the present invention does not pre-mix liquid propellant with the product. Rather, pressurized propellant is released by a separate propellant container to charge the interior chamber. Thus, the present invention reduces the amount of propellant that may contain volatile organic compounds released into the atmosphere since liquid propellant is not dispensed along with the product.

The dispensing apparatus of the present invention also reduces the volume of landfill waste. The product container is capable of being used multiple times. Once the charge is exhausted, the old propellant container may be removed and replaced to discharge the remaining product. Moreover, if the product is exhausted, many exemplary embodiments of the invention permit refilling the container with additional product. Hence, water and/or soil of the environment is preserved since waste due to the product container is minimized.

In addition, the product container may be formed from plastics or other materials that are inexpensive and/or capable of being recycled rather than discarded. For instance, the product container may be formed from high density polyethylene or other recyclable material. Thus, rather than potentially polluting the soil and/or water, the product container may be recycled to produce other useful products.

The removable propellant container can also reduce product waste. For instance, if a propellant container loses its charging potential, or becomes "spent" for whatever reason, the old propellant container may be switched with a new propellant container to allow the product to be completely exhausted from the product container. This feature would allow a larger or more desirable initial relative volume of product for use in the product container without risking the waste of unused portions of product, and without requiring close matching of pre-dosed propellant to the product volume and dispensing characteristics. This would allow for modular or standardized propellant containers with a wide variety of dispensing arrangements.

Similarly, disposable and or refillable product containers may be provided for fluid communication with the pressure chamber to recharge the pressure chamber with additional product. Isolating the propellant from the product prior to use is also particularly useful for dispensing products having a limited shelf life. The dispensing apparatus of the present invention allows injection of an active or unstable ingredient just prior to use. Accordingly, the effective shelf life "fuse" of the product may be extended or delayed to begin only upon the first use of the product by the consumer, rather than immediately after packaging at the manufacturing facility.

If a different product is desired, it may be necessary or advantageous to provide the dispensing apparatus with a separate cleansing propellant container to remove any residual product before the new product is added. For instance, a product container having one color product may use a cleaning propellant container to remove any residual product before the addition of a product having a different color. Using the cleansing propellant, in this instance, would prevent the color of the new product from being compromised by any previous product. Similarly, a cleansing propellant container may be used in other applications such as product containers that dispense perfume and/or cologne. If a different perfume/cologne is desired, the cleansing propellant container may be applied to the product container to remove any residual perfume/cologne that would affect the fragrance of the new product.

As also shown and described, the propellant container may be formed such that it is removable and/or replaceable from the product container. This feature would allow replacement of an empty propellant container with a new container, and hence, would allow a larger initial proportion of product, relative to propellant, to be stored in the interior chamber.

Adapting the dispensing apparatus to receive removable and/or replaceable product containers also allows the interior pressure to be varied by switching propellant containers, thereby increasing the versatility of the dispensing apparatus. For instance, the pressures of the interior chamber may be altered to modify how the product is dispensed. The propellant pressure in the interior chamber may be modified by selecting an alternate pressure container, having the desired pressure. In one application, a low pressure propellant container may be selected to reduce the pressure of the propellant in the pressure chamber, thereby increasing the aerosol droplet size/holding capacity of a hair spray. In contrast, a high pressure propellant container may be selected to increase the pressure of the propellant in the pressure chamber, and thereby reduce the aerosol droplet size. Reducing the aerosol droplet size may be desired in hair spray applications requiring a light holding mist of hair spray.

As discussed above, the propellant container having the desired propellant pressure may be selected to obtain the desired pressure in the pressure chamber. Alternatively, the dispensing apparatus may directly regulate the pressure of the pressure chamber. For example, a regulating valve may be provided to limit the amount of propellant delivered to the pressure chamber. The regulator valve may be automatic to achieve the desired pressure and alternatively may be manually adjusted to accommodate the desired pressure in the pressure chamber.

The properties of the propellant may also be designed to selectively alter the nature of the dispensed product. Examples of such scenarios might include where the propellant, contained in the propellant container, is selected to dissolve in the product, and in some circumstances, change the nature and characteristics of the product. For instance, the propellant may change the color of the product upon "activation" and/or may add fragrance to or modify the fragrance of the product. The propellant might further be selected to provide or enhance an anti-microbial agent to prevent contaminants from spoiling the product. A soluble propellant may also be used to allow or enhance foaming or tactile presentation of the product after being dispensed.

The propellant container may also be formed as a non-removable integral part of the dispensing apparatus. This exemplary embodiment may be useful in applications where only one type of propellant container is intended for use with the dispensing apparatus and it is desirable to prevent separation of the propellant container from the dispensing apparatus. Either of the removable or non-removable embodiments described herein may further be provided with a propellant container that may be renewable. In such an embodiment, an exhausted propellant container may be recycled by simply filling the propellant container via a valve (e.g., the valve near stem, or a separate valve), thereby increasing the life of the dispensing apparatus.

Providing a removable, replaceable and/or renewable propellant container enhances the versatility and utility of the dispensing apparatus. For example, the propellant containers may be formed in a universal manner wherein they may be used in many different applications, such as to dispense a product in an aerosol application. The universal propellant container may also be used in other dispensing applications such as foam, perfume, shaving cream, whipped cream, cheese dispensers, etc. The propellant containers may be sold separately from the product container, and there might be several different propellant container alternatives to choose from, offering, for example, different volumes, pressures, additives, sizes and/or package shapes, thereby permitting a purchaser to select the appropriate propellant container for the particular desired application and/or affect. Such propellant containers might conveniently be color coded or otherwise named, packaged (e.g., different shapes, sizes, etc), or marked to indicate the corresponding pressure and/or propellant characteristics to provide information to the consumer.

It will also be appreciated that selective charging and venting allows increased flexibility in product packaging design. Many global rules and regulations may require canisters to be formed from metal if they contain large quantities of propellant. For instance, the United States DOT often requires flammable propellant containers, particularly containers having a large quantity of propellant, to be fabricated from metal if the containers are to be pressurized during shipment. The dispensing apparatus of the present invention may be formed from non-metallic material since selective venting and charging permits the product container to be shipped in a decompressed state and then later charged to a compressed state for dispensing after reaching the final destination. Indeed, once the decompressed product container is delivered to a user, a separate propellant container containing pressurized propellant may be used to pressurize the product container for distribution of product. The pressurized propellant container may be provided with the product container and/or may be provided separately from the product container. Accordingly, a product container is provided that is capable of being vented to a minimum pressure in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the product container may be completely vented to ambient atmospheric pressure to avoid inadvertent discharge for example.

Accordingly, the unique venting and charging capability of the dispensing apparatus permits formation of the product container from a polymeric or other non- metallic material that may be formed and/or manipulated into unique product packages having a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, surface textures and other features that otherwise would not be possible or would be prohibitively expensive with metallic material (e.g., wherein the product container is formed from a metallic container). The container may be a tube, can, or the like. In addition, the product container may be formed of a transparent or translucent plastic to allow selective viewing of the product, product level and/or the color or current state of the product. For instance, the propellant may change the color of the product (e.g. hair coloring) which may be viewed through the product container. In another application, the dispensing apparatus is in the form of a fire extinguisher wherein the current level of extinguishing product may be viewed through the product container.

Moreover, additional product types may be stored in such a non-metallic dispensing apparatus that would otherwise be corrosive and or have limited shelf-life if stored in a metal product container. Such a corrosive product may be stored in a non- metallic dispensing apparatus without the use of an intermediate, protective liner. In one application, a product comprising an aqueous solution may be stored in a polymeric product container, while the same product may cause corrosion if stored in a ferrous, metallic product container without a protective liner. In addition, the non-metallic materials may better protect the product by acting as an insulator, or prevent diffusion of metallic materials into the product.

The dispensing apparatus may also be useful to prevent inadvertent discharge of product. For instance, the apparatus may be vented to prevent inadvertent discharge of material during shipment of the product to the retail outlet store. Moreover, the consumer may vent the apparatus prior to storage. For example, when traveling, the user may turn off the apparatus prior to packing the apparatus in luggage to prevent other items (e.g., clothing, etc.) from being contaminated with the product while maintaining the pressure and product source in its desired location.

A dispensing apparatus having discharge capabilities may also be used as a safety device. For example, dangerous household cleaning chemicals, insecticides, herbicides, etc. may be stored in the discharge apparatus of the present invention as a safety precaution to prevent children from discharging poisonous or otherwise harmful fluids. In this regard, the propellant container may be removed entirely from the discharge apparatus and stored by an adult in an undisclosed location when the product is not in use. Alternatively, the discharge apparatus may be provided with a locking mechanism or child proof mechanism to discourage or prevent charging of the interior chamber by young children.

The dispensing apparatus of the present invention are capable of dispensing a large variety of products including beverages (e.g., water, soft drinks, alcohols), foods (e.g., cheeses, sauces, cooking oils), personal hygiene products (e.g., liquid soaps, shampoos, toothpastes, hair sprays, styling jells, hair colorings, shaving creams, deodorants, mouthwashes, perfumes, colognes), household products (e.g., cleaning chemicals such as soaps, detergents, bleaches, ammonia, oven cleaners, gas cleaners; paints, stains, glues, foam insulations, insecticides, herbicides, fire extinguishing materials, caulkings), medical products (inhalers, liquid medicines, disinfectants), entertaining products (e.g., extruded confetti such as silly string, water or other fluids for squirt guns or water guns), etc.

The foregoing description of the various embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications and variations that have been discussed herein, and others that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS

1. A dispensing apparatus adapted to be used with a propellant container including pressurized propellant, the dispensing apparatus characterized by: a) a product container defining an interior chamber adapted to receive a product to be dispensed; and b) a discharge device adapted to discharge a product from the product container, characterized in that the dispensing apparatus is adapted to selectively increase pressure on a product in the interior chamber by releasing pressurized propellant from a propellant container, and further characterized in that the dispensing apparatus is adapted to selectively decrease pressure on a product in the interior chamber without releasing any substantial additional product or propellant with the discharge device.

2. The dispensing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the dispensing apparatus is further adapted to selectively decrease pressure on a product in the interior chamber while substantially preventing additional release of pressurized propellant from a propellant container

3. The dispensing apparatus of claim 1, further characterized by a pressure chamber adapted to receive propellant from a propellant container.

4. The dispensing apparatus of claim 3, wherein the pressure chamber comprises a bladder.

5. ^ι The dispensing apparatus of claim 3, wherein the pressure chamber is located at least partially within the interior chamber.

6. The dispensing apparatus of claim 5, wherein the pressure chamber is located entirely within the interior chamber.

7. The dispensing apparatus of claim 3, wherein the interior chamber comprises the pressure chamber.

8. The dispensing apparatus of claim 3, further characterized by a pressure indicator adapted to indicate a propellant pressure in the pressure chamber.

9. A dispenser for dispensing a product, the dispenser characterized by: a) a propellant container including pressurized propellant; and b) a dispensing apparatus characterized by a product container defining an interior chamber adapted to receive a product to be dispensed, the dispensing apparatus further characterized by a discharge device adapted to discharge a product from the product container, characterized in that the dispensing apparatus is adapted to selectively increase pressure on a product in the interior chamber by releasing pressurized propellant from the propellant container, and further characterized in that the dispensing apparatus is adapted to selectively decrease pressure on a product in the interior chamber without substantially releasing additional product or propellant with the discharge device.

10. A dispenser for dispensing a product, the dispenser characterized by: a) a dispensing apparatus including a product container defining an interior chamber adapted to receive a product to be dispensed, the dispensing apparatus further including a discharge device adapted to discharge a product from the product container; and b) a propellant container including pressurized propellant, the propellant container being removably attached to the dispensing apparatus, characterized in that the dispensing apparatus is adapted to pressurize the interior chamber with propellant released from the propellant container, and to selectively vent pressurized propellant from the interior chamber while substantially preventing release of additional pressurized propellant or product with the discharge device.