Abstract
The invention intends to provide an aerosol container comprising a body (100) that includes an outer chamber (110a) having a first open end and a second open end, and an inner chamber (120a) positioned within the outer chamber (110a) and enclosing the first open end of the outer chamber (110a), the inner chamber (120a) having a divider (121) that separates it from the outer chamber (110a), and an opening, a puncture member (300) for rupturing the divider (121), a first aerosol valve assembly (2100) enclosing the opening of the inner chamber (120a) and including any one or a combination of a content-filling mechanism, gas-discharging mechanism, rupturing mechanism and a first content-dispensing mechanism, and a second aerosol valve assembly (2200) enclosing the second open end of the outer chamber (110a) having a second content-dispersing mechanism.
Claims
1.-26. (canceled)
27. An aerosol container, comprising: a body that includes: an outer chamber having a first open end and a second open end; and an inner chamber positioned within the outer chamber and enclosing the first open end of the outer chamber, the inner chamber having a divider that separates it from the outer chamber, and an opening; a puncture member for rupturing the divider; a first aerosol valve assembly enclosing the opening of the inner chamber and including any one or a combination of a content-filling mechanism, gas-discharging mechanism, rupturing mechanism and a first content-dispensing mechanism; and a second aerosol valve assembly enclosing the second open end of the outer chamber having a second content-dispersing mechanism; wherein, upon activation of the first aerosol valve assembly, the content-filling mechanism enables formation of a content-filling passage to allow external content to be added into the body, the gas-discharging mechanism enables formation of a gas-discharging passage to allow unwanted or excess gas to be released out of the body, the rupturing mechanism acts on the puncture member to rupture the divider so as to allow coalescing of content within the inner chamber and outer chamber to form a coalesced content, and the first content-dispensing mechanism enables formation of a first content-dispensing passage to dispense the content out of the body; and wherein, upon activation of the second aerosol valve assembly, the second content-dispensing mechanism enables formation of a second content-dispensing passage to dispense the content out of the body.
28. The aerosol container according to claim 27, wherein the first aerosol valve assembly comprises: a mounting cup mounted to the opening of the inner chamber and having an aperture; a valve housing positioned within the inner chamber and adjacent to the aperture of the mounting cup; and a valve core accommodated within the valve housing, having a cap portion, a valve shaft connected to the cap portion, and an inlet formed between the cap portion and the valve shaft where the valve shaft is movable within the valve core to expose or close the inlet.
29. The aerosol container according to claim 28, wherein the first aerosol valve assembly further comprises a detachable component inserted into the aperture of the mounting cup, being either: a content-filling device having a content-filling stem; a gas-discharging device having a discharge activation stem; a content-filling and gas-discharging device having a content-filling and a discharge activation stem; a rupturing device having a rupture activation stem; a first content-dispensing device having a content-dispensing activation stem; or any combination thereof.
30. The aerosol container according to claim 29, wherein the content-filling mechanism of the first aerosol valve assembly includes the valve shaft, and the valve core with the cap portion being configured to receive the content-filling stem therethrough for supplying the external content into the valve core while pushing the valve shaft to expose the inlet of the valve core for directing the external content through the valve core and into the inner chamber.
31. The aerosol container according to claim 30, wherein the content-filling passage includes the content-filling device, the valve core of the first aerosol valve assembly, a channel formed by a dip tube within the puncture member that is connected to the valve core of the first aerosol valve assembly, and the inner chamber.
32. The aerosol container according to claim 29, wherein the gas-discharging mechanism of the first aerosol valve assembly includes the valve shaft, and the valve core with the cap portion configured to receive the discharge activation stem for moving the valve core away from the aperture of the mounting cup to create a gap therebetween to allow exit of the unwanted or excess gas from the body of the aerosol container through the gas-discharging device.
33. The aerosol container according to claim 32, wherein the gas-discharging passage includes, either or both, a combination of the inner chamber, the valve housing of the first aerosol valve assembly and discharge conduits within the gas-discharging device, and a combination of the inner chamber, a passageway formed between the puncture member and the valve housing of the first aerosol valve assembly, the valve core of the first aerosol valve assembly, and the discharge conduits of the gas-discharging device.
34. The aerosol container according to claim 29, wherein the content-filling mechanism and gas-discharging mechanism of the first aerosol valve assembly are configured to operate simultaneously upon activation of the first aerosol valve assembly by the content-filling and discharge activation stem which allows the external content to be supplied from the stem through the cap portion while moving the valve shaft to expose the inlet of the valve core for directing the external content into the valve core, and moving the valve core away from the aperture of the mounting cup to create a gap therebetween to allow exit of the unwanted or excess gas from the body of the aerosol container through the content-filling and gas-discharging device.
35. The aerosol container according to claim 29, wherein the rupturing mechanism of the first aerosol valve assembly includes the valve core, and the valve housing which sits within a recess formed at one end of the puncture member that is slidable along the valve housing such that upon activation of the first aerosol valve assembly by the rupturing activation stem, its valve core is pushed to displace the puncture member towards the direction of the divider o rupture it.
36. The aerosol container according to claim 35, wherein the puncture member further comprises a dip tube forming a channel inside the puncture member that moves along with the puncture member to reach the outer chamber upon rupturing the divider.
37. The aerosol container according to claim 36, wherein the first aerosol valve assembly has its valve core configured to substantially or fully return to its original position within the valve housing upon removal of the rupture activation stem, that disconnects the valve core and the channel of the puncture member, forming a cavity within the puncture member by having the recess covered by the valve housing.
38. The aerosol container according to claim 29, wherein the first content-dispensing mechanism of the first aerosol valve assembly includes the valve housing, and the valve core with the cap portion being configured to receive the content-dispensing activation stem that displaces the valve core away from the aperture of the mounting cup, leaving a gap therebetween to allow content to be dispensed out of the aerosol container through the first content-dispensing device.
39. The aerosol container according to claim 38, wherein the puncture member is formed with a recess at one end that is covered by the valve housing to create a cavity within the puncture member, and has a dip tube forming a channel inside the puncture member.
40. The aerosol container according to claim 39, wherein the first content-dispensing passage includes the body of the aerosol container, the channel within the puncture member, the cavity of the puncture member, the valve housing of the first aerosol valve assembly, conduits between the cap portion of the valve core of the first aerosol valve assembly and the content-dispensing activation stem of the first content-dispensing device, and the first content-dispensing device.
41. The aerosol container according to claim 40, wherein the content-dispensing activation stem of the first content-dispensing device is formed with a dimension to fix the position of the valve core of the first aerosol valve assembly during formation of the gap.
42. The aerosol container according to claim 41, wherein the second aerosol valve assembly comprises: a mounting cup mounted to the second open end of the outer chamber; a valve housing mounted to the second open end of the outer chamber through the support of the mounting cup; a valve core accommodated within the valve housing, having a valve stem that protrudes outwardly from the valve housing and the mounting cup; and a dip tube connected to the valve housing.
43. The aerosol container according to claim 42, wherein the second aerosol valve assembly further comprises a detachable component fitted over its mounting cup and its valve stem, being a second content-dispensing device having a content-dispensing activation stem.
44. The aerosol container according to claim 43, wherein the second content-dispensing mechanism of the second aerosol valve assembly includes the valve core with its valve stem being configured to receive the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing device that displaces the valve stem to allow content dispensed out of the aerosol container through the second content-dispensing device.
45. The aerosol container according to claim 44, wherein the second content-dispensing passage includes the body of the aerosol container, the dip tube, the valve housing and the valve stem of the second aerosol valve assembly, the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing device, and the second content-dispensing device.
46. The aerosol container according to claim 41, wherein the second aerosol valve assembly comprises: a mounting cup mounted to the second open end of the outer chamber and having an aperture; a valve housing positioned adjacent to the aperture of the mounting cup and supported by it; a valve core accommodated within the valve housing, having a cap portion, and a valve shaft connected to the cap portion; and a dip tube connected to the valve housing.
47. The aerosol container according to claim 46, wherein the second aerosol valve assembly further comprises a detachable component inserted into the aperture of its mounting cup, being a second content-dispensing device having a content-dispensing activation stem.
48. The aerosol container according to claim 47, wherein the second content-dispensing mechanism of the second aerosol valve assembly includes its valve housing, and its valve core being configured to receive the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing device that displaces the valve core away from the aperture of the mounting cup, leaving a gap therebetween to allow content to be dispensed out of the aerosol container through the second content-dispensing device.
49. The aerosol container according to claim 48, wherein the second content-dispensing passage includes the body of the aerosol container, the dip tube, the valve housing of the second aerosol valve assembly, conduits between the cap portion of the valve core of the second aerosol valve assembly and the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing device, and the second content-dispensing device.
50. The aerosol container according to claim 49, wherein the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing device is formed with a dimension to fix the position of the valve core of the second aerosol valve assembly during formation of the said gap.
51. The aerosol container according to claim 50, wherein the inner chamber further comprises a reinforcement structure for reinforcing structural integrity of the inner chamber.
52. The aerosol container according to claim 50, wherein it is refillable through the content-filling mechanism of the first aerosol valve assembly.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0042] To facilitate an understanding of the invention, there is illustrated in the accompanying drawing the preferred embodiments from an inspection of which when considered in connection with the following description, the invention, its construction and operation and many of its advantages would be readily understood and appreciated.
[0043] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional view of the aerosol container, and the first aerosol valve assembly in an inert state being sealed by a fastening device.
[0044] FIG. 2 is a zoomed-in diagram of FIG. 1 focusing on the first aerosol valve assembly on the aerosol container.
[0045] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional view of the aerosol container and the first aerosol valve assembly in an activated state that allows operation of the content-filling mechanism and gas-discharging mechanism.
[0046] FIG. 4 is a zoomed-in diagram of FIG. 3 focusing on the first aerosol valve assembly on the aerosol container for illustrating the content-filling path and the gas-discharge path.
[0047] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional view of the aerosol container and the first aerosol valve assembly in a non-activated state, with the rupturing mechanism yet to be operated.
[0048] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional view of the aerosol container and the first aerosol valve assembly in an activated state that allows operation of the rupturing mechanism.
[0049] FIG. 7 is a zoomed-in diagram of FIG. 6 focusing on the first aerosol valve assembly on the aerosol container for illustrating the positions of the components after the rupturing mechanism is activated.
[0050] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional view of the aerosol container and the first aerosol valve assembly in an activated state that allows operation of the first content-dispensing mechanism.
[0051] FIG. 9 is a zoomed-in diagram of FIG. 8 focusing on the first aerosol valve assembly on the aerosol container for illustrating the first content-dispensing path.
[0052] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional view of the aerosol container which includes the first aerosol valve assembly and a second aerosol valve assembly of the male-type.
[0053] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional view of the aerosol container which includes the first aerosol valve assembly and a second aerosol valve assembly that bears similarities with the first aerosol valve assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0054] The present invention relates to an aerosol container comprising more than one aerosol valve assembly. More particularly, the invention relates to a first aerosol valve assembly that can support filling of content, degassing of air from the aerosol container, coalescing of content and dispensing of content, as well as a second aerosol valve assembly that provides a second content-dispensing passage to dispense content. This invention is to be compatible with an aerosol container having a single-component payload or multi-component payload. The invention may also be presented in a number of different embodiments with common elements.
[0055] According to the concept of the invention, the aerosol container is preferably configured to accommodate a single-component payload or multi-component payload, with a body with an outer chamber having a first open end and a second open end, and an inner chamber positioned within the outer chamber and enclosing the first open end of the outer chamber. The aerosol container further has a first aerosol valve assembly that encloses the opening of the inner chamber and is configured to receive a detachable component that shall allow the first aerosol valve assembly to activate a content-filling mechanism for filling content, a gas-discharging mechanism for degassing the aerosol container, a rupturing mechanism for coalescing the content, a first content-dispensing mechanism for dispensing content, or any combination thereof, as well as a second aerosol valve assembly that encloses the second open end of the outer chamber, having a second content-dispensing mechanism.
[0056] From hereon, in the context of the present invention, it shall be understood that the term content may refer to aqueous or gaseous fluids, which may include the payload and the propellant. The payload may be multi-component having one or more paints, or any kind of pigmented liquids or fluids, mastic compositions, polyurethane enamels, or any kind of chemical compounds related to colouring applications.
[0057] In a first use case, the aerosol container has a single-component payload, or a payload with a single component. This single component may be any kind of pigmented liquids or fluids, mastic compositions, polyurethane enamels, or any kind of chemical compound related to colouring applications. Preferably, this single-component payload is stored in an inner chamber of the aerosol container. As for the propellant, it may be, but shall not be limited to pressurized air, hydrocarbons, organic compounds or the like, and is to be stored in the outer chamber.
[0058] In a second use case, the aerosol container has a multi-component payload, or a payload with multiple components. More specifically, the multi-component payload has two components, preferably being a resin component and a hardener component. Preferably, the resin component is stored in an outer chamber of the aerosol container and the hardener component is stored in an inner chamber of the aerosol container. As for the propellant, it may be, but shall not be limited to pressurized air, hydrocarbons, organic compounds or the like, and is to be stored in the outer chamber together with the resin component.
[0059] From hereon, it will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention.
[0060] From hereon as well, spatially relative terms, such as upper, lower, and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the assembly in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the assembly in the figures is turned over, elements described as upper other elements or features would then be oriented below the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term upper can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented and the spatially relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly.
[0061] The invention will now be described in greater detail, by way of example, with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that these figures illustrate longitudinal cross-sections of the aerosol container, which are symmetrical. As such, components of the aerosol container and processes that occur within that are labelled shall also be mirrored and applied to their unlabelled counterparts.
[0062] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the aerosol container, comprising the body 100 and the first aerosol valve assembly 2100. Whereas FIG. 2 is an illustration that specifically focuses on the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 and its related components.
[0063] From FIG. 1 as well, the body 100 is preferably cylindrical, having a hollow outer compartment 110, and the inner walls of the outer compartment 110 make up an outer chamber 110a. Preferably, the outer compartment 110 is of metallic material that is strong enough to withstand the pressure exerted by the propellant. The upper portion of outer compartment 110 is tapered and further comprises an opening that allows the accommodation of a hollow inner compartment 120, with the aperture of the inner compartment 120 supported by the rims of the opening. Preferably, before the inner compartment 120 is accommodated within the outer compartment 110, it is pre-filled with content, particularly a payload being a resin component, and the propellant. Alternatively, it may be just be pre-filled with content, being the propellant only. The inner compartment 120 is substantially smaller in diameter and volume compared to the outer compartment 110, and the inner walls of the inner compartment 120 make up the inner chamber 120a. The bottom-end portion of the inner compartment 120 is a divider 121 that is preferably made of thin or soft material that is easily punctured or perforated. This may be, but shall not be limited to rubber, polyethene terephthalate
[0064] (PETE) or the like.
[0065] From FIG. 1 as well, it can be seen that the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 further comprises a mounting cup 2101 and a valve housing 2110. The mounting cup 2101 seals the opening of the inner compartment 120 through a crimping process, thus creating a leak-proof space in the inner chamber 120a and outer chamber 110a. Directly below the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 is a puncture member 300. When coalescing, by means of mixing, of the content of the inner chamber 120a and outer chamber 110a is desired, the puncture member 300 shall rupture the divider 121 of the inner compartment 120 so that the content of the inner chamber 120a shall flow into the outer chamber 110a and coalesce. One or more agitator balls 111 may be included within the outer compartment 110 to aid in this process.
[0066] From FIG. 1, it can be seen that the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 is seated on a recess 310 formed at an upper portion of the puncture member 300. Preferably, the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 is slidable along the walls of the recess 310, with its conduit connected to a channel 320 of the puncture member 300 that may be formed by a dip tube 321. Alternatively, the dip tube 321 may not be present, and the channel 320 is integrated to be part of the puncture member 300. The lower-end portion of the puncture member 300 further contains one or more projections 330 that would allow the puncture member 300 to rupture the divider 121 of the inner compartment 120 when coalescing of content, which are payload components, is required.
[0067] From FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, with the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 in full view, it can be seen that the mounting cup 2101 has another aperture 2101a. Adjacent to said aperture 2101a and within the inner compartment 120 there is a valve housing 2110 that is conjoined to the aperture 2101a with a first gasket seal 2102 in-between. The valve housing 2110 has a hollow cylindrical body that houses the principle components of the valve of the aerosol container, and within it, there is a tubular valve core 2120 that is sleeved within a first resilient member 2111, which may be a spring or any form of elastic device. Such a configuration shall allow a vertical displacement of the valve core 2120 within the confines of the valve housing 2110. The valve housing 2110 is formed with an annular base protruding inwardly at its lower-end portion, where the first resilient member 2111 rests thereon with a third gasket seal 2112 in-between. Furthermore, disposed around the middle portion of the valve housing 2110 and slightly above the recess 310 is a side hole 2113.
[0068] From FIG. 2, the valve core 2120 itself has a hollow cylindrical body, but it has different diameters at each of its upper-end and lower-end portions to assume a shape similar to a reducing socket. The valve core 2120 further comprises cap portion 2121 and a valve shaft 2122 disposed within, with a second gasket seal 2123 in-between the cap portion 2121 and the valve shaft 2122. The valve shaft 2122 is tubular and is sleeved within a second resilient member 2124 within the valve core 2120. The second resilient member 2124 is similar to the first resilient member 2111, being a spring as well. Such a configuration allows a vertical displacement of the valve shaft 2122 within the confines of the valve core 2120. As the valve shaft 2122 is displaced vertically downwards, an inlet is formed between the valve shaft 2122 and the second gasket seal 2123 that allows an inflow of external content, preferably a payload being a hardener component, into the body 100. Furthermore, the cap portion 2121 is configured to be able to influence the displacement of the entire valve core 2120 or just the valve shaft 2122 in the valve core 2120. This is because the cap portion 2121 is formed with an annular base protruding inwardly from its bottom-end portion. Finally, near the bottom-end portion of the valve core 2120 with a smaller diameter, there are areas on the external walls of the valve core 2120 that are formed with indented portions 2125.
[0069] From FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, it is shown that the aerosol container is in an inert state suitable for storage after being manufactured. To configure the aerosol container to be in such a state, it is required that a fastening device 500 is rested on the top of the aerosol container, in particular, on top of the mounting cup 2101 of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100. The fastening device 500 does not have any stem of sorts that would cause a positional change in the entire valve core 2120 or just the valve shaft 2122 in the valve core 2120. As the resilient members 2111, 2124 of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 actively push the components of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 against the gasket seals 2102, 2123, there is no leakage of the content from the aerosol container. The fastening device 500 also protects the aperture 2101a of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 from any foreign objects, especially rod-like objects, which may cause accidental displacement of the components of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100.
[0070] With reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the content-filling mechanism (I) and gas-discharging mechanism (II) involving the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 and a content-filling-and-gas-discharging device 410 shall now be described in detail. FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the aerosol container and the first aerosol valve assembly 2100, activated by the attached content-filling-and-gas-discharging device 410. FIG. 4 illustrates a zoomed-in view of FIG. 3 that shows the flow of external content, preferably a payload being a hardener component, entering the aerosol container and excess gas exiting the aerosol container when said device 410 activates the first aerosol valve assembly 2100. While the content-filling mechanism (I) and gas-discharging mechanism (II) are to be described to operate simultaneously, it is not limited to such an embodiment. In an alternative embodiment, the content-filling mechanism (I) and gas-discharging mechanism (II) may operate independently from each other through the use of a content-filling device or a gas-discharging device separately.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 3, the content-filling-and-gas-discharging device 410, having a content-filling-and-discharge activation stem 411, is shown. This device 410 allows for the simultaneous operation of the content-filling mechanism (I) and gas-discharging mechanism (II). Preferably, the content-filling-and-gas-discharging device 410 is part of a filling tank T. The aerosol container may be in the aerosol container manufacturing line where a component (such as the hardener component) is to be filled into the inner chamber 120a. Preferably, before activation, the content-filling-and-discharge activation stem 411 is to be directly positioned to be above the aperture 2101a of the mounting cup 2101 of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 that leads to the valve housing 2110 within the aerosol container.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 3, the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 is activated when the aperture 2101a of the mounting cup 2101 is penetrated by the activation stem 411 of the content-filling-and-gas-discharging device 410. This allows content-filling mechanism (I) and gas-discharging mechanism (II) to operate. Preferably, the activation stem 411 is tapered, or extends telescopically, for its body has varying diameters to allow it to vertically displace both the valve core 2120 and the valve shaft 2122 in the valve core 2120.
[0073] Referring to FIG. 4, the thinner portion of the activation stem 411 vertically displaces the valve shaft 2122 of the valve core 2120, forming a gap between the valve shaft 2122 and the second gasket seal 2123. With this, the content-filling-and-gas-discharging device 410 provides an inflow of external content, preferably a payload being a hardener component or a single component payload, into the aerosol container as per the content-filling mechanism (I).
[0074] Referring to FIG. 4 as well, the thicker portion of the activation stem 411 vertically displaces the valve core 2120 itself until its bottom-end portion slightly extrudes outwardly from the valve housing 2110, leaving behind a gap between the first gasket seal 2102 and the upper-end portion of the cap portion 2121 of the valve core 2120. The length of the activation stem 411 is configured so that it does not vertically displace the valve core 2120 until it displaces the puncture member 300 to cause the divider 121 to rupture. Moreover, as the activation stem 411 vertically displaced the valve core 2120, its indented portions 2125 slightly protrudes out from the valve housing. With this, the content-filling-and-gas-discharging device 410 provides degassing of the aerosol container as per the gas-discharging mechanism (II).
[0075] FIG. 4 further illustrated the flow passages that are formed. In particular, there are two flow passages shown in FIG. 4: a content-filling passage (the path shown in the .fwdarw. arrows) and a gas-discharge passage (the path shown in the ![custom-character]()
arrows). The components involved in the content-filling passage form the content-filling mechanism (I), while the components involved in the gas-discharge passage form the gas-discharging mechanism (II).
[0076] Regarding the content-filling passage shown in FIG. 4, it is the passage where the external content from the tank L undertakes to fill the inner chamber 120a. The path of the content-filling passage begins at the gap is formed between the valve shaft 2122 and the second gasket seal 2123. Next, the external content flows through the internal walls of the valve core 2120 (since the valve core 2120 is hollow) and reaches the bottom-end portion of the valve core 2120. Finally, the external content flows through the channel 320 of the puncture member 300 so that it fills the vicinity of the inner chamber 120a. With this, the description of the content-filling mechanism (I) is complete.
[0077] Regarding the gas-discharge passage shown in FIG. 4, it is the passage where excess gas, which may be present in the inner chamber 120a, exits the aerosol container. This creates a pseudo-vacuum environment within the inner chamber 120a with little to no gas that may cause oxidation of the external content filled in the inner chamber 120a. The path of the gas-discharge passage begins at the gap formations between the mounting cup 2101 and the puncture member 300 whereby the excess gas enters therein. Next, the excess gas travels through the walls of the recess 310 of the puncture member 300 and the external walls of the valve housing 2110. Following this, the excess gas enters the valve housing 2110 through the indented portions 2125 of the valve core (since the indented portions 2125 have protruded out as well). After this, the excess gas travels within the valve housing 2110 of the aerosol container, through the internal walls of the valve housing 2110 and the external walls of the valve core 2120. Also, the presence of the side hole 2113 may serve to further enhance the gas-discharging mechanism (II) by allowing the discharge of the excess gas through the provision of a direct path for the excess gas to enter the valve housing 2110. Then, the excess gas travels upwards until it reaches the gap between the first gasket seal 2102 and the upper-end portion of the cap portion 2121 of the valve core 2120. Once the excess gas reaches this area, it exits the aerosol container through a discharge conduit 412 incorporated with the activation stem 411. Finally, this discharge conduit 412 leads the excess gas out into the environment where it shall be discharged. With this, the description of the gas-discharging mechanism (II) is complete.
[0078] With reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 7, the rupturing mechanism (III) involving the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 and a rupturing device 420 shall now be described. FIG.
[0079] 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the aerosol container and the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 in a non-activated state, but ready to be attached with the rupturing device 420. FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the aerosol container and the aerosol valve assembly 200 in an activated state, attached with the rupturing device 420. FIG. 7 illustrates a zoomed-in view of FIG. 6 that shows the positions of the components of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 when in the said activated state. Referring to FIG. 5, the rupturing device 420, having a rupture activation stem 421, is shown. This device 420 allows for the operation of rupturing mechanism (III). Preferably, before activation as shown in FIG. 5, the rupture activation stem 421 is directly positioned to be above the aperture 2101a of the mounting cup 2101 of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 that leads to the valve housing 2110 within the aerosol container.
[0080] Referring to FIG. 6, the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 is activated when the aperture 2101a of the mounting cup 2101 is penetrated by the activation stem 421 of the rupturing device 420. This allows rupturing mechanism (III) to operate. Preferably, the activation stem 421 is not tapered and has a constant diameter. The diameter of the activation stem 421 is large enough such that it at least slightly encompasses the annular base of the cap portion 2121 of the valve core 2120. This shall allow the activation stem 421 to only vertically displace the valve core 2120.
[0081] Referring to FIG. 7, the rupture activation stem 421 shall force the entirety of the valve core 2120 to displace downwards. The length of the activation stem 421 is long enough to enable the valve core 2120 to protrude out from the valve housing 2110 and provide a vertical displacement to the puncture member 300 (since the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 rests within the recess 310). This causes the projections 330 to rupture the divider 121 of the inner compartment 120 so that content of the inner chamber 120a coalesces, or mixes, with content of the outer chamber 110a. In particular, the hardener component in the inner chamber 120a, and the resin component and propellant in the outer chamber 110a, coalesce or mix. Alternatively, the single-component payload in the inner chamber 120a and the propellant in the outer chamber 110a, coalesce or mix. This forms a coalesced content. When the puncture member 300 punctures the divider 121, the dip tube 321 reaches the base of the outer compartment 110. With this, the description of the puncture mechanism (III) is complete.
[0082] As the rupturing device 420 is taken off from the aerosol container (not shown), the valve core 2110 retracts back into its valve housing due to the first resilient member 2111 and re-assumes a position similar to FIG. 2. However, there will be a permanent positional change for the puncture member 300 within the aerosol container. Unlike FIG. 2, the valve housing 2110 of the aerosol container will not be rested on the recess 310 of the puncture member 300 anymore. As the puncture member 300 has been displaced downwardly in a permanent manner, the recess 310 forms a cavity 310a.
[0083] With reference to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the first content-dispensing mechanism (IV) involving the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 and a first content-dispensing device 430a shall now be described. FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the aerosol container and the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 in an activated state, attached with the first content-dispensing device 430a. FIG. 9 illustrates a zoomed-in view of FIG. 8 that shows the flow of content exiting the aerosol container when the said device 430a is in the activated state.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 8, the first content-dispensing device 430a, having a content-dispensing activation stem 431a, is shown. This device 430a allows for the operation of the first content-dispensing mechanism (IV). Preferably, the first content-dispensing device 430a is similar to a conventional aerosol container spray head, configured for a female-type aerosol valve assembly, and further includes a nozzle and conduits leading to the nozzle. Preferably, before activation, the activation stem 431a is to be directly positioned to be above the aperture 2101a of the mounting cup 2101 of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 that leads to the valve housing 2110 within the aerosol container.
[0085] Referring to FIG. 9, the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 is activated when the aperture 2101a of the mounting cup 2101 is penetrated by the activation stem 431a of the first content-dispensing device 430a. This allows the first content-dispensing mechanism (IV) to operate. Preferably, the activation stem 431a is not tapered and has a constant diameter. The diameter of the activation stem 431a is large enough such that it at least slightly encompasses the annular base of the cap portion 2121 of the valve core 2120. This allows the activation stem 431a to only vertically displace the valve core 2120.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 9 as well, the first content-dispensing activation stem 431a in particular vertically displaces the valve core 2120 itself until its bottom-end portion extrudes outwardly from the valve housing 2110 with the indented portions 2125 of the valve core 2120 is exposed as well. The activation stem 431a also leaves behind a gap between the first gasket seal 2102 and the upper-end portion of the cap portion 2121 of the valve core 2120. With this, the first content-dispensing device 430a provides degassing of the aerosol container as per the first content-dispensing mechanism (IV).
[0087] FIG. 9 further illustrates flow passages that are formed. In particular, there is one flow passage shown in FIG. 9, which is a first content-dispensing passage (the path shown in the .fwdarw. arrows). The components involved in the first content-dispensing passage forms the first content-dispensing mechanism (IV).
[0088] Regarding the first content-dispensing passage shown in FIG. 9, it is the passage where the coalesced content within the aerosol container undertakes to be dispensed out into the environment through the nozzle 432a. In the activated state as per FIG. 8, a differential pressure is created between the environment and the pressurized interior of the aerosol container due to the presence of the propellant. As such, the path of the first content-dispensing passage begins at the bottom-end portion of the dip tube 321 that is now located at the base of the inner compartment 120 where the coalesced content is drawn thereto. Next, the coalesced content travels upwards along the channel 320 of the dip tube 321 to reach the cavity 310a. Following this, the coalesced content enters the valve housing 2110 through the indented portions 2125 of the valve core 2120. Then, the coalesced content travels through the internal walls of the valve housing 2110 and the external walls of the valve core 2120. While it does so, propellant may enter into the valve housing through the side hole 2113 to be further mixed, or undergo secondary mixing, with the coalesced content.
[0089] Once the coalesced content reaches the gap formed between the first gasket seal 2102 and the upper-end portion of the cap portion 2121 of the valve core 2120, the coalesced content then squeezes through conduits formed between the external walls of the content-dispensing activation stem 431a and the walls of the cap portion 2121 to reach an inlet of the activation stem 431a. Finally, the coalesced content goes through the conduit of the first content-dispensing device 430a to reach the nozzle 432a for it to be dispensed out into the environment. The further mixing, or secondary mixing between the coalesced content and the propellant that had entered through the side hole 2113 may provide a uniform dispensation of the coalesced content for a better spray effect. With this, the description of the first content-dispensing mechanism (IV) is complete.
[0090] The first aerosol valve assembly 2100 of the aerosol container of the present invention may allow the aerosol container to be re-filled in the future after its content have been used up. However, by the time the rupturing mechanism (III) is activated, the positional configuration of components within the aerosol container undergoes an irreversible change, and as such the aerosol container may only be re-filled with content such as a payload being single-component paint.
[0091] FIG. 10 illustrates the cross-sectional view of an aerosol container, which includes the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 and a second aerosol valve assembly 2200. The body 100 of this aerosol container has an outer compartment 110 defined with an outer chamber 110a having two open ends. Preferably, the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 is located at the upper-end portion of the aerosol container, in the vicinity of a first open end of the outer chamber 110a. Preferably, the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 is located at the bottom-end portion of the aerosol container, in the vicinity of a second open end of the outer chamber 110a.
[0092] Preferably, the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 is substantially connected and within an inner chamber 120a of an inner compartment 120, and also connected to a puncture member 300. It is configurationally and functionally similar to the aerosol valve assembly as previously described based on FIGS. 1 to 9. Additionally, the inner chamber 120a may further include a reinforcement structure 122 for reinforcing the structural integrity of the inner chamber 120a. This is to enable the inner chamber 120a to sustain internal pressure within itself and withstand compression forces that may occur during the operation of the content-filling mechanism (I). Preferably, this reinforcement structure 122 is sleeved into the inner compartment 120. Preferably as well, the reinforcement structure 122 allows the inner chamber 120a to withstand at least 50N of force. With this, deformation of the inner chamber 120a may be avoided.
[0093] Whereas, the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 is of a male type, and it comprises a mounting cup 2201, a valve housing 2210 with a valve core 2220 therewithin, and a dip tube 2230. Preferably, the mounting cup 2201 is mounted to the second open end of the outer chamber 110a. Preferably, the valve housing 2210 is supported onto the outer chamber 110a through the mounting cup 2201 with a gasket seal 2202 disposed therebetween. Within the valve housing 2210, the valve core 2220 is sleeved within a resilient member 2211. Not only that, the valve core 2220 further includes a valve stem 2221, having a channel 2221a therewithin, which protrudes outwardly from the valve housing 2210 and mounting cup 2201. Preferably, the dip tube 2230 is connected to the bottom-end portion of the valve housing 2210 and its bottom-end portion leads to the bottom-end portion of the aerosol container.
[0094] With reference to FIG. 10, the second content-dispensing mechanism (V) involving the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 shall now be described. Preferably, the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 shall receive a content-dispensing activation stem of a second content-dispensing device (not shown) that shall allow the operation of the second content-dispensing mechanism (V). The second content-dispensing device is preferably similar to a conventional aerosol spray head configured for a male-type aerosol valve assembly, and further includes a nozzle and conduits leading to the nozzle. Preferably, before activation, the activation stem of the second content-dispensing device is to be directly positioned to be above the mounting cup 2201 of the second aerosol valve assembly 2200, with the valve stem 2221 of the valve core 2220 tightly fitted into or over the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing device.
[0095] The second aerosol valve assembly 2200 is activated when the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing device causes a downward displacement of the valve stem 2221. This will then cause the valve core 2220 to have a downward displacement as well. Consequently, a gap shall be formed between the mounting cup 2201 and the gasket seal 2202, which leads to the channel 2221a of the valve stem 2221. This shall allow the dispensing of content from the outer chamber 110a, which may be the originally uncoalesced content of the outer chamber 110a, or coalesced content should the divider 121 had been punctured.
[0096] FIG. 10 further illustrates flow passages that may be formed. In particular, there is one flow passage shown in FIG. 10, which is a second content-dispensing passage (the path shown in the .fwdarw. arrows). The components involved in this second content-dispensing passage forms the second content-dispensing mechanism (V).
[0097] Regarding the second content-dispensing passage shown in FIG. 10, it is the passage where content within the aerosol container undertakes to be dispensed out into the environment through a nozzle. As the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 assumes an activated state due to the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing device, a differential pressure is created between the environment and the pressurized interior of the aerosol container due to the presence of the propellant. As such, a path of the second content-dispensing passage begins at the bottom-end portion of the dip tube 2230 located within the bottom-end portion of the aerosol container, where the content is drawn thereto. Next, the content travels along a channel 2230a of the dip tube 2230 to reach the valve housing 2210.
[0098] Once the content reaches the valve housing 2210, the content shall proceed to the gap formed between the mounting cup 2201 and the gasket seal 2202 so that it reaches the channel 2221a of the valve stem 2221.
[0099] After that, while not shown, the content will exit the valve stem 2221 and enter the content-dispensing activation stem of the second content-dispensing activation device. The content may then go through conduits of the second content-dispensing device to reach its nozzle, for the content to then be dispensed out into the environment. With this, the description of the second content-dispensing mechanism (V) of the embodiment of the aerosol container as illustrated in FIG. 10 is complete.
[0100] It is noted that the embodiment of the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 illustrated in FIG. 10 and its descriptions thereof may also apply if it is of the female type as well, which is illustrated in FIG. 11.
[0101] In the embodiment of the aerosol container as illustrated in FIG. 11, the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 may be similar to the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 as previously described based on FIGS. 1 to 9, but its valve housing slightly modified to have a longer length compared to before to accommodate the displacement of the valve core when the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 is activated, and also, its valve housing is directly connected to a dip tube 2230 instead of the puncture member 300 and its components. In this embodiment as well, the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 may be activated by another content-filling-and-gas-discharging device, which may be similar to the content-filling-and-gas-discharging device 410, similarly as previously described for FIGS. 3 and 4. This another content-filling-and-gas-discharging device shall allow the operation of another content-filling mechanism (VI) so that content, such as payload or propellant, is filled into the aerosol container.
[0102] In this embodiment as well, the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 may be activated by a second content-dispensing device, which may be similar to the first content-dispensing device 430a, similarly as previously described for FIGS. 8 and 9. This second content-dispensing device shall allow the operation of a second content-dispensing mechanism (V) so that content is dispensed out into the environment.
[0103] FIG. 11 further illustrates flow passages that may be formed. In particular, there is one flow passage shown in FIG. 11, which is the second content-dispensing passage (the path shown in the .fwdarw. arrows). The components involved in this second content-dispensing passage form the second content-dispensing mechanism (V) of the embodiment of the aerosol container as illustrated in FIG. 11.
[0104] Since the operation of the second content-dispensing mechanism (V) of the aerosol container as illustrated in FIG. 11 is similar to the operation of the first content-dispensing mechanism (IV) as described previously based on FIGS. 8 and 9, it may be regarded that the description of the second content-dispensing mechanism (V) of the embodiment of the aerosol container as illustrated in FIG. 11 is sufficiently supported.
[0105] It should be noted that either one or both of the content-filling mechanism (I) of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100, and the another content-filling mechanism (VI) of the second aerosol valve assembly 2200 (when it is of the embodiment of FIG. 11), allows for content, which includes payload and propellant, to be re-filled into the aerosol container. The content-filling mechanism (I) of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100 may allow re-filling of content after the rupturing of the divider (121). This shall reduce the generation of environmental waste as the aerosol container can be reused multiple times. The content-filling mechanisms, when allowing for the refilling of content, are not to impede the operation of the gas-discharging mechanism (II).
[0106] Ultimately, the present invention has provided an aerosol container, which is compatible to have a single-component payload or multi-component payload, being able to support filling of content, degassing of air from the aerosol container, coalescing of content and dispensing of content using the same first aerosol valve assembly 2100. Said first aerosol valve assembly 2100 provides means to activate a content-filling mechanism, a gas-discharging mechanism, a rupturing mechanism, a first content-dispensing mechanism, or any combination thereof.
[0107] Ultimately as well, the present invention has also provided an aerosol container, which is compatible to have a single-component payload or multi-component payload, being able to support dispensing of content using the second aerosol valve assembly 2200. Said second aerosol valve assembly 2200 provides means to activate a second content-dispensing mechanism, enabling the content within the aerosol container to be dispensed. Moreover, the presence of the first aerosol valve assembly 2100, having a content-filling mechanism (I), allows for refilling of content, which includes payload or propellent, into the aerosol container, thereby making the aerosol container reusable.
[0108] The present disclosure includes as contained in the appended claims, as well as that of the foregoing description. Although this invention has been described in its preferred form with a degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure of the preferred form has been made only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction and the combination and arrangements of parts may be resorted to without departing from the scope of the invention.
