 |
Claims  |
|
|
The embodiments of an invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows.
1. A dispensing package for fluid products, comprising:
a container to retain a selected fluid product therein, having a discharge opening and flexible walls which collapse when fluid product is dispensed from said container; and
a dispensing valve for controlling the flow of the fluid product from said container, including a marginal valve portion sealing about the discharge opening of said container; a valve head portion having an orifice which opens to permit fluid
flow therethrough in response to a predetermined discharge pressure within said container, and closes to shut off fluid flow therethrough upon removal of the predetermined discharge pressure, wherein said valve head portion is shaped for shifting
generally centrally with respect to said marginal valve portion; and a connector sleeve portion having a resiliently flexible construction, with one end area thereof connected with said marginal valve portion, and an opposite end area thereof connected
with said valve head portion, wherein said connector sleeve portion has a configuration which applies an outwardly directed torque to said valve head portion when pressure within said container is raised above the predetermined discharge pressure to
assist in opening said orifice, and applies an inwardly directed torque to said valve head portion when the predetermined discharge pressure within said container is released to assist in closing said orifice.
2. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said connector sleeve portion has a sidewall shaped to double over and extend and retract rollingly.
3. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 2, wherein:
said valve head portion is generally disc-shaped.
4. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
said valve head portion includes a marginal area thereof adjacent which the other end area of said connector sleeve is connected.
5. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 4, wherein:
said sidewall of said connector sleeve portion flares outwardly from said valve head portion adjacent said marginal valve portion.
6. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 5, wherein:
said sidewall of said connector sleeve portion has a generally J-shaped longitudinal cross-sectional shape.
7. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 6, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an exterior surface thereof assumes a generally concave orientation as viewed from outside said container.
8. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 7, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an interior surface thereof assumes a generally convex orientation as viewed from inside said container.
9. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 8, wherein:
said exterior surface of said valve head portion is configured to protrude outwardly when said orifice is open.
10. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 9, wherein:
said container includes a collapsible bag.
11. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 10, wherein:
said bag includes a hanger.
12. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 11, wherein:
said dispensing valve is mounted adjacent a bottom portion of said bag.
13. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said valve head portion is generally disc-shaped.
14. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said valve head portion includes a marginal area thereof adjacent with the other end area of said connector sleeve is connected.
15. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said connector sleeve portion flares outwardly from said valve head portion adjacent said marginal valve portion.
16. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said connector sleeve portion has a generally J-shaped longitudinal cross-sectional shape.
17. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an exterior surface thereof assumes a generally concave orientation as viewed from outside said container.
18. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an interior surface thereof assumes a generally convex orientation as viewed from inside said container.
19. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said container includes a collapsible bag.
20. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said container includes a hanger.
21. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
said dispensing valve is mounted adjacent a bottom portion of said container.
22. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 1, including:
a valve stop selectively associated with said container, and including a portion positioned generally opposite said dispensing valve to positively retain said orifice in a fully closed position.
23. A dispensing valve for fluid product packaging of the type having a container with a discharge opening, comprising:
a marginal valve portion shaped to seal about the discharge opening of the container; a valve head portion having an orifice which opens to permit fluid flow therethrough in response to a predetermined discharge pressure within the container,
and closes to shut off fluid flow therethrough upon removal of the predetermined discharge pressure, wherein said valve head portion is shaped for shifting generally centrally with respect to said marginal valve portion; and a connector sleeve portion
having a resiliently flexible construction, with one end area thereof connected with said marginal valve portion, and an opposite end area thereof connected with said valve head portion, wherein said connector sleeve portion has a configuration which
applies an outwardly directed torque to said valve head portion when pressure within the container is raised above the predetermined discharge pressure to assist in opening said orifice, and applies an inwardly directed torque to said valve head portion
when the predetermined discharge pressure within said container is released to assist in closing said orifice.
24. A dispensing valve as set forth in claim 23, wherein:
said connector sleeve portion has a sidewall shaped to double over and extend and retract rollingly.
25. A dispensing valve as set forth in claim 23, wherein:
said valve head portion is generally disc-shaped.
26. A dispensing valve as set forth in claim 23, wherein:
said valve head portion includes a marginal area thereof adjacent which the other end area of said connector sleeve is connected.
27. A dispensing valve as set forth in claim 23, wherein:
said connector sleeve portion flares outwardly frown said valve head portion adjacent said marginal valve portion.
28. A dispensing valve as set forth in claim 23, wherein:
said connector sleeve portion has a generally J-shaped longitudinal cross-sectional shape.
29. A dispensing valve as set forth in claim 23, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an exterior surface thereof assumes a generally concave orientation as viewed from outside the container.
30. A dispensing valve as set forth in claim 23, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an interior surface thereof assumes a generally convex orientation as viewed from inside the container.
31. A dispensing valve for fluid product packaging of the type having a container with a discharge opening; said dispensing valve comprising:
a marginal valve portion shaped to seal about the discharge opening of tile container; a connector sleeve portion having a resiliently flexible construction, with one end area thereof connected with said marginal valve portion; and a valve head
portion connected with an opposite end area of said connector sleeve portion, and having an orifice which opens to permit fluid flow therethrough in response to a predetermined discharge pressure within the container, and closes to shut off fluid flow
therethrough upon removal of the predetermined discharge pressure; said valve head portion having an outwardly flared crown shape, wherein a marginal edge of said valve head portion tapers radially inwardly toward said connector sleeve portion to
alleviate nesting during handling.
32. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 31, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an exterior surface thereof assumes a generally concave orientation as viewed from outside said container.
33. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 32, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an interior surface thereof assumes a generally convex orientation as viewed from inside said container.
34. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 33, wherein:
said valve head interior surface is sufficiently large with respect to the one end area of said connector sleeve portion to alleviate nesting with similar dispensing valves.
35. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 34, wherein:
said valve head portion has a thickness defined between said interior surface and said exterior surface which tapers inwardly to a thinnest area thereof adjacent said orifice to facilitate the suck back of air into the container.
36. A dispensing package for fluid products, comprising:
a container for retaining a selected fluid product therein, having a base shaped to support said container in an upright, freestanding orientation on a selected surface, and including a discharge opening therein through which fluid product is
dispensed from said container:
a dispensing valve for controlling the flow of the fluid product from said container, including a marginal valve portion sealing about the discharge opening of said container: a valve head portion having an orifice which opens to permit fluid
flow therethrough in response to a predetermined discharge pressure within said container, and closes to shut off fluid flow therethrough upon removal of the predetermined discharge pressure, wherein said valve head portion is shaped or shifting
generally centrally with respect to said marginal valve portion; and a connector sleeve portion having a resiliently flexible construction, with one end area thereof connected with said marginal valve portion, and an opposite end area thereof connected
with said valve head portion, wherein said dispensing valve is oriented in said container such that said predetermined threshold pressure is greater than the maximum hydraulic head pressure of the fluid product in said container when said discharge
opening is oriented downwardly to prevent inadvertent leakage of the liquid product from said dispensing package; and wherein
said discharge opening is positioned adjacent an edge area of said base to facilitate accurately dispensing the fluid product through said valve;
said base includes an interior wall which tapers downwardly to said edge area and said discharge opening from an opposite edge area thereof to insure complete emptying of fluid product from said dispensing package.
37. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 36, wherein:
said dispensing valve is oriented at an angle to the selected surface when said container is supported in an upright, freestanding orientation thereon.
38. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 37, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an exterior surface thereof assumes a generally concave orientation as viewed from outside said container.
39. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 38, wherein:
said valve head portion is configured such that when said orifice is closed, an interior surface thereof assumes a generally convex orientation as viewed from inside said container.
40. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 39, wherein:
said exterior surface of said valve head portion is configured to protrude outwardly when said orifice is open.
41. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 40, wherein;
said connector sleeve portion has a sidewall shaped to double over and extend and retract rollingly.
42. A dispensing package as set forth in claim 41, wherein:
said sidewall of said connector sleeve portion has a generally J-shaped longitudinal cross-sectional shape. |
|
 |
|
 |
Claims |
|
|
|
Description |
|
|
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to product packaging, and in particular to a self-sealing valve for fluid products, and the like.
Many different types of packages or containers are presently available for packaging non-solid products of the type which are capable of flowing, such as fluid or fluidized materials, including liquids, pastes, powders, and the like, which
substances are collectively and generically referred to herein as "fluids". Some such packages include a dispenser which permits a selected amount of fluid to be discharged from the package, and then reseals to close the package.
Self-sealing dispensing valves have been used in packaging for certain types of products, such as the container disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,728,006 to Drobish et al, which is designed for shampoos, conditioners, and the like. However, such
valves have been known to experience some types of sealing problems, and inconsistent dispensing characteristics, particularly when the packages are exposed to significant temperature variations.
Valves constructed from most conventional plastic materials cannot be used in at least certain types of packages, since they either react with or adulterate the product. For instance, in food packaging, care must be taken to avoid the use of
valve materials which might contain any type of toxin. Furthermore, active ingredients in products can cause the valve to either embrittle or soften, thereby ruining the designed flow rate and/or self-sealing characteristics of the valve.
Liquid silicone rubber valves have recently been used in some types of packaging, and have proven particularly advantageous since the material is inherently quite inert, and will therefore not either adulterate or react with the packaged product. Examples of such packaging are provided in applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 5,033,655 to Brown. Although liquid silicone rubber possesses many attributes for use in packaging, it also has other characteristics which render such applications problematic. For
example, the surfaces of liquid silicone rubber parts are extremely tacky or sticky, having a very high coefficient of friction. As a result, in attempting to attach a dispensing valve to a container by a conventional threaded collar arrangement, the
surfaces of the valve flange will stick tightly to the adjacent surfaces of the container and collar before the collar can be tightened securely enough to create a leak-resistant seal. Tightening of the collar often causes the valve flange, as well as
the entire valve to distort from its designed shape, thereby preventing the formation of a secure seal, and/or changing the intended dispensing and sealing characteristics of the valve.
Another drawback associated with the use of liquid silicone rubber in dispensing valves for product packaging is that there is presently no available adhesive capable of connecting the valve to a container in a manner that will withstand the
operating pressures to which the valve and container are repeatedly subjected. The unique imperforate nature of the surfaces of the liquid silicone rubber valve precludes the use of conventional adhesives. Hence, the attachment of the liquid silicone
rubber valve to a container in a manner that will not leak, and will withstand repeated pressurization and depressurization of the dispensing package is an important consideration.
Another problem experienced with prior dispensing packages relates to achieving a proper design balance between the package container, valve, and fluid product, so that the product can be repeatedly dispensed without requiring excess force, and
will neatly discharge only that amount of product which is desired by the user, particularly in keeping with the type of product involved. For instance, when dispensing highly concentrated fluid products, such as hand soaps, and the like, the user will
typically require only a small amount or dollop of soap per application to achieve satisfactory results. In contrast, when using other types of fluid products, such as skin moisturizers, tanning formulas, and the like, larger quantities of product are
typically required by the user for each application. The ability of the valve to quickly and readily open in response to moderate pressure on the container is important, as is the ability of the valve to quickly and securely close when the pressure has
been released. Also important is the amount of pressure which must be maintained on the container to sustain fluid through the valve once the valve is opened. The ability to quickly and accurately achieve a proper balance between all of these factors
is very desirable in designing dispensing packages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
One aspect of the present invention is a dispensing package for fluid products and the like, comprising a container having a dispensing valve mounted therein. The dispensing valve includes a marginal flange which seals about a discharge opening
of the container, and a valve head with an orifice therethrough which opens and closes in response to the application and release of a predetermined discharge pressure to control fluid flow therethrough. The valve includes a connector sleeve having one
end connected with the valve flange, and an opposite end connected with the valve head adjacent a marginal edge thereof. The connector sleeve has a resiliently flexible construction, whereby when pressure within the containers raised above the
predetermined discharge pressure, the valve head shifts outwardly in a manner which causes the connector sleeve to double over and then extend rollingly, and thereby apply a torque to the valve head which assists in opening the orifice.
Another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing valve for fluid product packaging and the like, having a marginal valve flange shaped to seal about a discharge opening of the container. The valve includes a valve head having a marginal
edge, interior and exterior sides, and an orifice extending therebetween which opens to permit fluid flow therethrough in response to communication with a predetermined discharge pressure, and closes to shut off fluid flow therethrough upon removal of
the predetermined discharge pressure. A connector sleeve with a resiliently flexible construction, has one end connected with the valve flange, and the opposite end connected with the valve head adjacent to the marginal edge thereof, whereby when
pressure in excess of the predetermined discharge pressure is applied to the interior side of the valve head, the valve head shifts outwardly in a manner which causes the connector sleeve to double over and then extend rollingly, and thereby apply a
torque to the valve head which assists in opening the orifice.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing package for fluid products and the like, comprising a container having a dispensing valve mounted therein for controlling the flow of fluid product from the container. The dispensing
valve includes a marginal valve flange, a valve head with an orifice which permits fluid flow therethrough, and a connector sleeve having one end connected with the valve flange, and an opposite end connected with the valve head adjacent a marginal edge
thereof, such that the dispensing valve assumes a generally hat-shaped, side elevational configuration which normally projects inwardly toward the interior of the container. The connector sleeve has a resiliently flexible construction which permits the
valve head to shift outwardly through the valve flange by doubling over the connector sleeve, which then extends rollingly outwardly.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing valve, comprising a marginal valve flange, and a valve head with an orifice therethrough which selectively opens to permit fluid flow in response to communication with a predetermined
discharge pressure. The valve head is configured such that it assumes an outwardly protruding orientation when the orifice is open. The dispensing valve also includes a connector sleeve, which has a resiliently flexible construction, with one end
connected with the valve flange, and an opposite end connected with the valve head adjacent the marginal edge thereof, whereby when pressure in excess of the predetermined discharge pressure is applied to the interior side of the valve head, the valve
head shifts outwardly in a manner which causes the connector sleeve to double over and then extend rollingly, and thereby apply a torque to the valve head which resiliently snaps the valve head into its outwardly protruding orientation to quickly and
fully open the orifice.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a self-sealing dispensing valve for fluid product packaging and the like, comprising a marginal valve flange, and a valve head with an orifice therein which selectively permits fluid flow through the
valve. The interior side of the valve head has an outwardly curving arcuate side elevational shape defined by a first radius, while the exterior side of the valve head has an outwardly curving arcuate side elevational shape defined by a second radius,
which is less than the first radius. A connector sleeve is provided with a resiliently flexible construction, and has one end connected with the valve flange, and the opposite end connected with the valve head.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a self-sealing dispensing valve for fluid product packaging and the like, comprising a marginal valve flange, and a valve head having a discharge opening therein to selectively permit fluid flow.
The valve head includes an exterior side having an outwardly curving arcuate side elevational shape defined by a first radius, and an interior side with a center portion having a generally flat side elevational shape, and a marginal portion having an
outwardly curving arcuate side elevational shape defined by a second radius, which is greater than the first radius. The discharge orifice extends from the center portion of the exterior surface to the interior surface of the valve head to achieve easy
and complete opening of the discharge orifice when the predetermined discharge pressure is applied thereto, and secure and complete closing of the discharge opening when the predetermined discharge pressure is released.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing valve for fluid product packaging, comprising a marginal valve flange, and a valve head having an orifice therein which opens to permit fluid flow therethrough in response to a
predetermined discharge pressure, and closes to shut off fluid flow therethrough upon removal of the predetermined discharge pressure. The dispensing valve includes a substantially imperforate rolling diaphragm positioned between and interconnecting the
valve flange and the valve head, which has a flexible construction which permits the valve head to shift between a retracted position on an interior side of the marginal flange for storage, and an extended position on an exterior side of the marginal
flange for dispensing. When pressure in excess of the discharge pressure is applied to the container, the valve head first shifts to the extended position, and then opens the orifice to discharge the fluid product therethrough. Upon release of the
pressure, the orifice first closes to shut off the flow of fluid product therethrough, and the valve head then shifts to the retracted position for storage.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a valve, comprising a marginal valve flange, and a valve head having a marginal edge, interior and exterior sides, and an orifice extending therebetween which in response to communication with a
predetermined discharge pressure, shifts to a fully open position to permit fluid flow therethrough. A connector sleeve is provided, having a resiliently flexible construction, with one end connected with the valve flange, and an opposite end connected
with the valve head adjacent the marginal edge thereof, which permits the valve head to shift with respect to the marginal valve flange in a manner which causes the connector sleeve to double over and then extend rollingly, and thereby apply an outwardly
directed torque to the valve head which tends to open the orifice. The valve head is configured with a plan shape which expands or dilates as the orifice is shifted to the fully open position, which expansion is resisted by the connector sleeve, so as
to inwardly compress the valve head, which inward compression and torque applied to the valve head by the connector sleeve combine to resiliently maintain the orifice in the fully open position, whereby that pressure required to maintain fluid flow
through the orifice is substantially less than the predetermined threshold pressure, so as to provide greater ease of dispensing and flow control.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing valve for containers of the type having walls which collapse when fluid product is dispensed therefrom. The dispensing valve includes a marginal valve portion, a valve head portion with
an orifice which permits fluid flow therethrough, and a connector sleeve portion having one end area thereof connected with the marginal valve portion, and the opposite end area thereof connected with the valve head portion. The valve head portion is
shaped for shifting generally centrally with respect to the marginal valve portion, and a connector sleeve portion has a configuration which applies an outwardly directed torque to the valve head portion when pressure within the container is raised above
a predetermined discharge pressure to assist in opening the orifice, and applies an inwardly directed torque to the valve head portion when the predetermined discharge pressure within the container is released to assist in closing the orifice.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing valve for fluid product packaging and the like, having an improved flange design. The dispensing valve includes a valve head portion having an orifice which permits fluid flow
therethrough, and a marginal flange portion having a first surface oriented to face generally toward the valve head portion, and a second surface oriented to face generally away from the valve head portion. One of the two flange surfaces is shaped for
sealing abutment with a valve seat in the container. The second flange surface has a support edge area projecting outwardly away from the valve head portion to a location exteriormost of the valve, and is configured to abut a conveying surface, and
support the valve thereon in a predetermined upright orientation. During handling of the valve, such as for assembly in an associated container, the valve is positioned on the conveying surface in the upright orientation with the support edge area in
abutment with the conveying surface, which establishes minimum contact therebetween to facilitate reliably translating the valve along the conveying surface while retaining the valve in its upright orientation.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing valve for fluid product packaging and the like, having a crown shaped valve head design. The dispensing valve includes a marginal valve portion, a connector sleeve portion having a
resiliently flexible construction, with one end area thereof connected with the marginal valve portion, and a valve head portion connected with an opposite end area of the connector sleeve portion. The valve head portion has an orifice which selectively
permits fluid flow therethrough, and includes an outwardly flared crown shape which alleviates nesting, and improves air suck back without sacrificing desirable closing characteristics.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing package for fluid products and the like, having an improved bottom dispense design. A container is provided having a base shaped to support the same in an upright, freestanding
orientation on a selected surface, and including a dispensing valve mounted in a base portion thereof for bottom dispensing. The dispensing valve includes a marginal valve portion, a valve head portion having an orifice therein which selectively permits
fluid flow therethrough, and a connector sleeve portion having a resiliently flexible construction, with one end area thereof connected with the marginal valve portion, and an opposite end area thereof connected with the valve head portion. The
dispensing valve is configured such that the predetermined threshold pressure necessary to open the valve is greater than the maximum hydraulic head pressure of the fluid product in the container when the discharge opening is oriented downwardly, so as
to prevent inadvertent leakage of the liquid product from the dispensing package.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a dispensing package for fluid products and the like, having a leak resistant valve stop. A container is provided having a dispensing valve mounted about a discharge opening therein. The dispensing
valve includes a marginal valve portion, a valve head portion having an orifice which selectively permits fluid flow therethrough, and a connector sleeve portion having a resiliently flexible construction, with one end area thereof connected with the
valve marginal portion, and an opposite end area thereof connected with the valve head portion. The connector sleeve portion has a sidewall configuration which extends to shift the valve head portion. outwardly when pressure within the container is
raised above a predetermined discharge pressure. A valve stop is provided which is selectively connected with the container generally opposite the dispensing valve, and includes an inwardly projecting protuberance positioned to positively retain the
orifice in its fully closed position.
The principle objects of the present invention are to provide a dispensing package which is capable of easily and neatly dispensing a wide variety of different types of fluid products. The dispensing package includes a self-sealing valve which
is matched with both the container and the type of fluid product to be dispensed, so as to quickly and securely seal, yet readily and fully open when the user applies modest pressure to the container. The valve includes a resiliently flexible connector
sleeve which is configured to double over and then extend rollingly, so as to apply a torque to the valve head which assists in opening the orifice. The connector sleeve has sufficient flexibility that pressure increases in the interior of the
container, such as those caused by thermal expansion, are offset by shifting the valve head on the connector sleeve, so as to alleviate excess pressure on the orifice. The connector sleeve is also configured to provide sufficient flexibility that any
misalignment and/or distortion of the valve flange when attached to the associated container are not transmitted to the valve head, thereby permitting unhindered opening and closing of the orifice. The connector sleeve is also configured to provide
sufficient flexibility that shock impact forces, and the like applied to the container are absorbed by shifting the valve head on the connector sleeve, so as to avoid inadvertent opening of the valve orifice. The valve is configured to provide a
generally constant flow rate therethrough, even when exposed to a relatively wide range of container pressures. For those products wherein a substantial amount of material is typically dispensed per application, the valve is configured such that once
the orifice is shifted open, the amount of pressure required to maintain fluid flow through the orifice is reduced, so as to provide greater ease of operation, without sacrificing secure sealing of the valve. The dispensing package is extremely
versatile, and particularly adapted for use in conjunction with bottom dispensing containers, and other similar packaging. The valve is very durable, while having reduced manufacturing costs, and an uncomplicated design. The overall package is
efficient in use, economical to manufacture, capable of a long operating life, and particularly well adapted for many different proposed uses.
In addition to those advantages noted hereinabove, the present self-sealing valve can be used in conjunction with containers that have a resilient squeeze type of sidewall construction, as well as containers which have a collapsible sidewall
construction. The configuration of the dispensing valve, particularly with respect to the resilient flexible connector sleeve, and associated valve head configuration, are such that the valve will shift to its fully closed position without requiring a
negative pressure within the container. The valve may be provided with a uniquely shaped marginal flange, which has an outwardly projecting support edge area that facilitates conveying the valve, such as during assembly operations. Also, the dispensing
valve may include a crown shaped valve head, which alleviates nesting during handling, and provides improved air suck back, without sacrificing desirable closing characteristics. The dispensing valve may also be used in conjunction with an improved
bottom dispensing container, and may be provided with a valve stop having an inwardly projecting protuberance to positively retain the orifice in its fully closed position.
These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing package embodying the present invention, wherein a portion thereof has been broken away to reveal a self-sealing valve mounted in a bottom portion of an associated container.
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the dispensing package, wherein a portion thereof has been broken away to reveal the valve, which is shown in a fully retracted and fully closed position.
FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the dispensing package, wherein a portion thereof has been broken away to reveal the valve, which is shown in a fully extended and fully open position.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged, fragmentary top view of the valve.
FIG. 5 is an enlarged, side elevational view of the valve.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve.
FIG. 7 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in the fully closed and fully retracted position.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully closed, and partially retracted position.
FIG. 9 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully closed and partially extended position.
FIG. 10 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully closed and fully extended position.
FIG. 11 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully closed and fully extended position, wherein a valve head portion thereof is shown beginning to snap outwardly.
FIG. 12 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully closed, and fully extended position, wherein the valve head portion is shown continuing to snap outwardly.
FIG. 13 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully extended position, wherein the valve head portion is shown snapped fully outwardly and fully open.
FIG. 14 is an enlarged, bottom plan view of the valve shown in the position illustrated in FIG. 13.
FIG. 15 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully closed, and partially extended position abutting a container closure.
FIG. 16 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the valve installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully closed and fully extended position abutting an alternative container closure.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present dispensing package, wherein a portion thereof has been broken away to reveal a self-sealing valve mounted in a bottom portion of a collapsible wall container.
FIG. 18 is a vertical cross-sectional view of yet another dispensing package embodying the present invention, wherein a self-sealing valve is mounted in a bottom portion of a squeeze type container having an interior collapsible bag liner.
FIG. 19 is an enlarged, fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of another dispensing package embodying the present invention, shown in a disassembled condition, and including a valve with an asymmetrically configured flange.
FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the valve shown in FIG. 19.
FIG. 21 is an enlarged, vertical cross-sectional view of a flange portion of the valve shown in FIGS. 19-20.
FIG. 22 is an enlarged, fragmentary, vertical, cross-sectional view of the dispensing package shown in FIG. 19, shown in an assembled condition.
FIG. 23 is an enlarged, partially schematic, top plan view of a plurality of the valves illustrated in FIGS. 19-22, shown on a conveyor for translation to an assembly station or the like.
FIG. 24 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the valves and conveyor shown in FIG. 23, taken along the line XXIV--XXIV, FIG. 23.
FIG. 25 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the valves and conveyor shown in FIG. 23, taken along the line XXV--XXV, FIG. 23.
FIG. 26 is an enlarged, fragmentary vertical cross-sectional view of yet another dispensing package embodying the present invention, shown in a disassembled condition, and including a valve with a crown shaped valve head.
FIG. 27 is an enlarged, fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of a left hand portion of the valve illustrated in FIGS. 19-25.
FIG. 28 is an enlarged, fragmentary, vertical cross-sectional view of a right hand portion of the crown shaped valve illustrated in FIG. 26.
FIG. 29 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the crown shaped valve shown in FIGS. 26 and 28 installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully closed, and fully extended position.
FIG. 30 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the crown shaped valve shown in FIGS. 26 and 28-29 installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully extended position, wherein the valve head portion is shown snapped fully
outwardly and fully open.
FIG. 31 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the crown shaped valve shown in FIGS. 26 and 28-30, installed in an associated container, with the valve shown in a fully retracted position, sucking air back into the container.
FIG. 32 is a partially schematic, cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the present dispensing package, wherein the valve is mounted in a sloped base portion of an associated container.
FIG. 33 is a partially schematic, cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the present dispensing package, wherein the valve is mounted at an angle in a sloped base portion of an associated container.
FIG. 34 is a partially schematic, cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the present dispensing package, wherein a cap is provided with a protuberance which positively prevents the valve from leaking.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF
THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical" "horizontal" and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIGS. 1-3. However, it is to be understood that the
invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the
following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as
limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.
The reference numeral 1 (FIG. 1) generally designates a dispensing package embodying the present invention. Dispensing package 1 is particularly adapted for dispensing fluid products, such as liquid soaps, household cleaners, polishes,
moisturizing creams, foodstuffs, and the like, and includes a container 2 with a unique self-sealing dispensing valve 3 mounted therein. Valve 3 includes a marginal flange portion 4, a valve head portion 5 with a discharge orifice 6 therein, and a
connector sleeve portion 7, having one end area connected with valve flange portion 4, and the opposite end area connected with valve head portion 5 adjacent a marginal area thereof. Connector sleeve portion 7 has a resiliently flexible construction,
such that when pressure within container 2 is raised above a predetermined amount, valve head portion 5 shifts outwardly (FIGS. 8-15) in a manner which causes connector sleeve portion 7 to double over and then extend rollingly.
The illustrated container 2 (FIGS. 1-3) is particularly designed for bottom dispensing, and includes a generally flexible, oblong container body 12 supported on a substantially rigid base 13. Container body 12 is preferably integrally molded
from an appropriate synthetic resin material or the like, so as to create a one-piece construction that includes oppositely oriented sidewalls 14 and 15, a top 16 and a bottom 17. The container sidewalls 14 and 15 are laterally flexible to pressurize
and depressurize the interior of container 2, and preferably have sufficient resilience or stiffness that they automatically return to their original shape upon release of any external forces which are applied to container 2 to dispense a fluid product
18 therefrom.
The illustrated container bottom 17 (FIGS. 2 & 3) includes a downwardly opening neck 20, which defines a discharge opening 21 about which the marginal flange 4 of valve 3 is positioned. As best illustrated in FIG. 7 and 8, the free end of neck
20 includes an annularly shaped groove 22 having a general L-shaped longitudinal cross-sectional configuration, which is shaped to closely receive the marginal flange 4 of valve 3 therein. Container base 13 includes a valve retainer ring 23 positioned
adjacent groove 22, and attached to container body 12 by a snap lock arrangement 24. Container base 13 (FIGS. 2 & 3) has a substantially flat bottom 25 adapted to abuttingly support dispensing package 1 on an associated surface, such as a countertop,
sink, worksurface, or the like. Neck groove 22 is located inwardly of the bottom 25 of container base 13, so as to position valve 3 in a generally recessed condition within dispensing package 1, as explained in greater detail hereinafter. Container top
16 may be rounded or tapered to insure that container 2 is positioned in its upright orientation, as shown in FIGS. 1-3.
With reference to FIGS. 4-6, the illustrated self-sealing dispensing valve 3 has an integrally formed, one-piece construction. Valve 3 has an interior side which interfaces with the fluid produce 18 in container 2, and an oppositely oriented
exterior side which interfaces with ambient environment. Valve 3 is preferably molded from a resiliently flexible material, and in the illustrated example comprises a silicone rubber which is substantially inert so as to avoid reaction with and/or
adulteration of the fluid product being packaged. In one working embodiment of the present invention, valve 3 is produced at relatively high speeds through the molding of liquid silicone rubber.
The illustrated marginal flange portion 4 (FIGS. 4-6) of valve 3 has an annular plan shape, and a substantially L-shaped cross-sectional configuration, comprising an inner edge 30, an outer edge 31, a bottom 32, and a top 33 with an outer rim 34
upstanding therefrom. Marginal valve flange 4 has substantial thickness between the bottom 32 and top 33 which is resiliently compressed upon attachment of retainer ring 23 to form a secure leak-resistant seal therebetween. The rim portion 34 of valve
flange 4 positively locks valve 3 in neck groove 22 to prevent any radial movement therebetween.
The illustrated head portion 5 (FIGS. 4-6) of valve 3 has a circular plan shape, and a generally tapered construction which is thicker at the radially outside portion of valve head 5, and thinner at the radially inside portion thereof. This
tapered construction assists in achieving the snap open/snap close action of valve 3, as described below. More specifically, in the illustrated example, valve head 5 has an exterior side or surface 38, which has an arcuately shaped side elevational
configuration which opens or curves outwardly, toward the exterior of dispensing package 1, and is defined by a first, predetermined radius. Valve head exterior surface 38 extends continuously between the interior sidewalls of connector sleeve 7. Valve
head 5 also includes an interior side or surface 39, which has a marginal portion 40 with an arcuately shaped side elevational configuration which opens or curved outwardly, toward the exterior of dispensing package 1, and is defined by a second
predetermined radius. The radius of marginal portion 40 on interior surface 39 is larger than that of exterior surface 38, such that the two surfaces converge toward the center of valve head 5, and provide the above-noted inwardly tapered construction
of valve head 5. The interior surface 39 of valve head 5 also includes a center portion 41, which has a circular plan shape, with a substantially planar or flat side elevational configuration, oriented generally perpendicularly to discharge orifice 6.
The center portion 41 of valve head 5 assists in improving the opening and closing characteristic of valve 3, as set forth below. The outer perimeter of valve head 5 is defined by a circular marginal edge 42, which begins at the outer edge 43 of
marginal portion 40, and extends outwardly therefrom with a slight outward taper, ultimately merging into connector sleeve 7. The intersection of the marginal portion 40 and the center portion 41 of valve head 5 defines a circular edge 44. The outside
diameter of valve head 5, as measured along marginal edge 42 is substantially smaller than the inside diameter of marginal flange 4, as measured along inner edge 30. As explained in greater detail below, this spacing between valve head 5 and marginal
flange 4 permits valve head 5 to shift freely in an axial direction through the center of marginal flange 4.
The illustrated connector sleeve portion 7 (FIGS. 4-6) of valve head 5 is in the form of a rolling diaphragm, having a hollow circular plan configuration, and a generally J-shaped longitudinal cross-sectional shape, comprising a cylindrical
sidewall portion 45, and a radially outwardly extending base portion 46. Connector sleeve 7 has interior and exterior surfaces 47 and 48 respectively, which are spaced equidistantly apart along the length thereof, such that connector sleeve 7 has a
substantially uniform thickness. One end portion 49 of connector sleeve 7 is connected with the exterior surface 38 of valve head 5 adjacent the marginal edge 42 thereof, and the opposite end portion 50 of connector sleeve 7 is connected with the inner
edge 30 of marginal valve flange 4. The interior surface 47 of connector sleeve 7 adjacent end 49 is positioned substantially coplanar and contiguous with the marginal edge 42 of valve head 5, while the opposite end 50 of connector sleeve 7 is connected
with marginal valve flange 7 at a medial portion of inner edge 30, such that the base portion 46 of connector sleeve 7 flares in a radially inwardly direction from marginal valve flange 46, and also protrudes outwardly toward the exterior of dispensing
package 1 at an arcuate portion 51 of connector sleeve 7. The arcuately flared shape of connector sleeve portion 51 assists connector sleeve 7 in first doubling over, and then rollingly extending as valve head 5 shifts outwardly in the manner described
in greater detail below. The marginal attachment point of end 49 of connector sleeve 7 to valve head 5, as well as its associated geometry, increases the effectiveness of torque forces which assist in snapping valve 3 open, as discussed hereinafter.
The exterior surface 48 of sleeve side wall 45 at end 49 of connector sleeve 7 intersects the exterior surface 38 of valve head 5 at an angle which defines a circular edge 52. In the illustrated example, the exteriormost area of sleeve arcuate portion
51 is disposed substantially in-line with or slightly interior of the bottom 32 of marginal flange 4, so as to facilitate fabrication. The length of connector sleeve 7 is preferably selected sufficiently short to prevent the same from folding in behind
valve head 5 when valve head 5 is in the fully extended position (FIGS. 10-14), thereby avoiding interference with the retraction of valve head 5, which is explained in detail below.
The illustrated one-piece valve 3 has a hat-shaped side elevational configuration in its original, normal condition, wherein valve head 5 assumes a generally concave shape. The resilient flexibility of connector sleeve 7 permits the same to
double over and then extend rollingly in the manner described hereinafter. Connector sleeve 7 acts as a rolling diaphragm with valve head 5 mounted at the center thereof in a manner which permits valve head 5 to shift or float freely inwardly and
outwardly in an axial direction with respect to the opening 21 in container neck 20.
In the illustrated example, discharge orifice 6 (FIGS. 4-6) has a cross-slit construction which includes two, intersecting linear slits 55 and 56 that extend through the opposite sides 38 and 39 of center portion 41. The illustrated slits 55 and
56 are oriented in a mutually perpendicular relationship, and have their opposite ends 55a and 55b positioned slightly inwardly from the outer edge 44 of center portion 41. Orifice slits 55 and 56 define four flaps or pedals 57 which flex inwardly and
outwardly to selectively permit the flow of fluid product through valve 3. Slits 55 and 56 are preferably formed by slicing through the cent | | |
