Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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Self-closinci diaphra~~m valve
The invention relates to a self-closing diaphragm valve
with a slit diaphragm and a dome-like securing part
associated with a mounting region of the diaphragm.
A self-closing diaphragm valve of this type is known
from US patent specification 1,989,714 and comprises a
rubber plate. According to one embodiment, the latter
is clamped against the end surface of the neck of a
dispensing container by a cup-like cap part. An indent
of the cup base of the securing part, this base having
a window in the center, indents the diaphragm in a
gently curved manner counter to the dispensing
direction of the medium. Located in the vicinity of the
periphery of the cup-like securing part is a latching
bead, which projects on the neck side and engages in a
matching groove of the neck. The other versions
interact with a specific clamping ring which supports
the diaphragm on the periphery. The securing part, in
contrast, is formed directly by the neck, which has a
corresponding inwardly projecting section.
It is an object of the invention to develop the
mounting region for pre-assembly of the self-closing
diaphragm valve.
This object is achieved first and foremost in the case
of a self-closing diaphragm valve having the features
of Claim 1, this being based on the fact that the
securing part is connected in a positively locking or
integral manner to the diaphragm and is formed in order
to be secured in a closure part by latching or over-
engagement on the outer periphery of the circumference.
Such a configuration achieves a diaphragm valve which
can be pre-assembled ready for use. The relatively
flexible diaphragm is seated on the intrinsically more
stable securing part. The latter acts like a frame, the
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periphery of which has clippable elasticity, for
achieving the abovementioned securing action by over-
engagement or latching on a container-like object. Via
the dome-like mounting region of the securing part, the
curvature is distributed further over the entire
diaphragm. This may be strictly in the form of a
spherical cap. In this case, it is possible to achieve
a rotationally symmetrical arcuate profile in the same
direction, although it is also possible to have a
differing, e.g. more gentle, curved profile, for
example in the central region of the diaphragm.
Integral bonding involves the crosslinking of the
materials. It is likewise possible to use adhesive
bonding and ultrasound. The integral bonding preferably
does not comprise encapsulation of the diaphragm by
injection molding.
The subject matters of the rest of the claims are
explained hereinbelow with reference to the subject
matter of Claim 1, but may also be important in respect
of their independent wording. It is thus further
provided that the diaphragm rests at least centrally on
a plate part. The plate part, which functions as a
deflecting wall, supports the central slit region of
the diaphragm. Outside the center, the plate part rises
up and/or projects in a gap-forming manner. The
technical design in this respect even aids the
discharge of pellet-like bodies, in particular guidance
toward the pushing-out slit region of the diaphragm. It
is further advantageous here if the plate part is
formed to taper in the direction of the diaphragm,
possibly in a trumpet-like configuration. It is
likewise advantageous if the plate part tapers in a
step-like manner. A stepped cone is conceivable here.
This even has a loosening action in respect of the
material which is to be dispensed. It is advantageous,
furthermore, if the diaphragm rests with prestressing
on the plate part or vice versa. This requires a
deliberate discharging force, for example with the
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dispensing container used being handled like the
conventional squeeze bottle. The invention also relates
to the fact that the securing part is formed as an
annular flat part. The corresponding flat form provides
a relatively wide fastening zone or mounting region, in
particular in respect of the integral bonding.
Furthermore, it proves to be advantageous if the cross-
section of the securing part converges in the direction
of its center. This results in a certain resilience in
respect of. producing the securing action by over-
engagement or latching. Furthermore, it is proposed
that the securing part has an outer shape which
corresponds to a hollow section and on which the
diaphragm rests. The diaphragm is thus formed in a
bowl-like manner, a central region being exposed in the
upward direction. According to one version, it may be
advantageous if the securing part does not engage
around the diaphragm, in particular in the case of the
integral connection. From the point of view of positive
locking, however, an advantageous solution is one
according to which the securing part engages around the
diaphragm. The periphery of the diaphragm can thus, for
all practical purposes, be pushed into an annular
groove. It proves to be advantageous here if that
cross-sectional length of the diaphragm which does not
have the securing part engaging around it but coincides
therewith is greater than the length around which the
securing part engages. This results in a directing
surface for the introduction of the periphery of the
diaphragm, this directing surface being advantageous
for installation purposes and being disposed in front
of the said groove. Furthermore, an advantageous
positioning method appears to be one according to which
the diaphragm is connected integrally to the securing
part by means of an adhesion promoter. Thermoplastic
elastomers may be used here. Particularly cost-
effective production is correspondingly achieved in
that the diaphragm is connected to the securing part by
two-component injection molding. In respect of the
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diaphragm, it is possible to use material with fairly
thin walls. In this case, excellent stability to
curvature is provided if the radius of curvature of the
diaphragm is between the dimension of the diameter and
that of the radius, preferably four fifths of the
diameter. In the case of the present application, the
diameter is approximately 19 mm. The thickness of the
diaphragm, which preferably consists of silicone, is
approximately 0.5 mm. This is based on a Shore hardness
20 of 60. The diaphragm is also produced separately from
the securing part and, prior to connection to the
securing part, configured with a planar surface. The
dome shape which is forced from the original planar
shape compresses the periphery of such a disk. This can
range as far as macroscopically but non-detectable
peripheral undulation, with radial orientation of the
top of the peaks, and of the bottom of the trough, of
the undulation. This all results in characteristic
internal stress. The compression-based thickening of
the periphery of the diaphragm aids, for example, the
positively locking connection explained above, this
being on account of expansion clamping.
The invention then relates to a closure which is
produced by plastic injection molding and is intended
' for a dispensing container, for example a preferably
blow-molded bottle, the closure having a self-closing
diaphragm valve which interacts with a securing part,
and proposes, in order to achieve an advantageous
configuration, that the diaphragm, which is of dome-
like configuration even in the free-span region, is
connected in a positively locking or integral manner to
the securing part, the securing part being secured in
the closure by latching. It is advantageous in terms of
positioning here if the closure part, which encircles
the securing part on the outside, acts on the
diaphragm, at the same time, in the manner of a cutting
edge in the region of overlap with the securing part.
In order, furthermore, to avoid the situation where the
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medium penetrates too forcefully in the case of the
dispensing operation taking place with the container
upside down, the diaphragm has a deflecting holder of
the closure part, the deflecting holder having
apertures, positioned beneath it. The apertures act in
the manner of an air lock. That part of the diaphragm
which is located in the flow center is, as it were,
screened in that a crosspiece of the deflecting holder
is assigned to the opening slit of the diaphragm in
vertical projection. In order to achieve a supply
directly on the dispensing side, the deflecting holder
is positioned at a free distance beneath the diaphragm.
The main supply or the rest of the supply of medium
which is to be dispensed is, as it were, held back
behind the deflecting wall. The invention also relates
to a closure in the case of which the diaphragm rests
at least centrally on the plate part. It is provided
here that the plate part is formed to taper in the
direction of the diaphragm. Furthermore, this solution
is characterized in that the plate part tapers in a
step-like manner . A precaution is taken here such that
the diaphragm rests with prestressing on the plate part
or vice versa.
An advantageous development of the closure, moreover,
consists in that the closure has a closure lid, in that
a cup which is open at the bottom is integrally formed
on the closure lid in the region of overlap with the
diaphragm, and in that the free end periphery of the
cup, in the closed state, is seated in a sealing manner
on the diaphragm, and in that the plate part, which is
attached via resilient arms, bears beneath the
diaphragm. A further function is thus performed by the
valve diaphragm; it forms a sealing seat surface which
interacts with the closing member, in this case the
closure lid-. Compressive forces acting on the
dispensing container, heat-induced expansion of the
material which is to be dispensed, fermenting
processes, etc. do not give rise to passage beyond the
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discharging region. Rather, the pressure component even
has a sealing-enhancing action since the diaphragm is
forced even more firmly against the end periphery of
the cup. It is also the case, however, that the slit in
the diaphragm is kept closed on account of the plate
part. Since the latter is attached to resilient arms,
it is possible for it, within limits, to accompany the
movement, with the effect of a pushing-out action. This
pushing-out action, however, is effectively limited. It
takes place, as it were, counter to an "air cushion"
enclosed in the cup. Provision may also be made during
injection molding for the operation of integrally
forming a cup, even an end periphery coordinated with
the spherical configuration of the diaphragm. Even a
partial hernia-like compression of diaphragm material
in the discharging region is effectively prevented,
since the free outer periphery of the cup is directly
adjacent to the inner wall of the diaphragm in the
closed state. This can even go as far as achieving an
additional sealing location if, as is further proposed,
the outer periphery of the cup bears in a sealing
manner against the inner periphery of the securing
part. This second sealing location is further enhanced
in that the securing part, associated with the outer
periphery of the cup, has a sealing profiling. The
latter may be rotationally symmetrical, bead-like
ribbing. A number of ribs may be formed. It is then
provided that the outer periphery of the cup has
longitudinal ribs which are seated on the securing part
in the closed position of the closure. This aids the
peripheral anchoring of the securing part and also has
an advantageous effect in respect of the desired
sealing of the retained diaphragm. Furthermore, in one
possible configuration, slits of the diaphragm are
provided such that they project beyond the plate part
in the radially outward direction. This is because just
covering the slit center by the plate part, this giving
the effect of a deflecting wall, is usually sufficient.
Moreover, the slits themselves, since they run in a
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zone of curvature and the compressive forces run from
the vertex, are self-closing, that is until an
envisaged pressure threshold, beneath which the
diaphragm pushes out spontaneously, is exceeded, which
takes place when the material which is to be dispensed
is deliberately discharged.
Finally, the invention proposes a closure in which the
periphery of the closure lid has a latching button of
the closure passing through it, it being possible for
this latching button to be used for tamperproof
sealing, and the latching button having a surface which
is structured in a rib-like manner. Vertical ribs are
formed. The ribs replace a central latching-button
hollow, the latter nevertheless having been mistaken by
the user, in the past, for a dispensing opening. Since
the base of the blind-bore-like hollow is closed, there
have been previous cases of piercing being used in
order to open the supposed "dispensing nozzle". The
rib-like structure, in contrast, does not encourage the
abovedescribed handling.
To conclude, the invention relates to a process for
producing a self-closing diaphragm valve with a
diaphragm fitted in an annular securing part, the
diaphragm consisting of an elastomer, in particular a
silicone material. The developing feature steps here
are characterized in that, in the first instance, the
securing part is produced by plastic injection molding,
and in that the elastomer material is then added in a
fluid state to the securing part accommodated in a mold
and, with the aid of a counter-mold, the elastomer
material is distributed in order to form the diaphragm
as desired. The elastomer material may be added as a
sub-quantity, for example simply by being supplied in
droplet form. This results in both a weld-like
connection and a partially positively locking
connection in relation to the securing part. This is
utilized in order to achieve a new geometry, to be
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precise with the effect of providing integrally formed
curvature, which is correspondingly free of stressing.
The subject matters of the rest of the process claims
are explained hereinbelow in relation to the subject
matter of Claim 24, but may also be important in
respect of their independent wording. It is thus
proposed that the elastomer material, which cures
preferably by a crosslinking reaction, is connected in
an integral and/or positively locking manner to the
securing part, rear-engagement regions being formed in
respect of the positive locking. This results in a
version of a diaphragm valve which is extremely stable
in mechanical terms. The positively locking rear-
I5 engagement regions form, as it were, a peripheral
clamp. In a structurally straightforward manner, the
procedure is then such that the elastomer material is
prepared for application by means of an extruder, and
that, in a following processing step, a slit is formed
in order to provide a dispensing opening. It is also
the case that the slit, since it is produced in a state
in which it is relieved of stressing, is not subjected
to any deformation. This results in the diaphragm valve
closing itself in a reliable manner.
The invention ultimately relates to a self-closing
diaphragm valve which is accommodated in an annular
securing part, produced by plastic injection molding,
and has a diaphragm made of an elastomer material with
a slit for forming a dispensing opening when acted upon
by pressure, and proposes that the diaphragm, when
formed in a manner in which it is free of cut edges on
its circumferential periphery, is connected in a
positively locking and/or integral manner to the
securing part.
The subject matter of the invention is explained in
more detail hereinbelow with reference to an exemplary
embodiment illustrated in the drawing, in which:
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Fig. 1 shows the plan view of a material strip with
diaphragms which have been punched for
removal purposes and are provided on the
periphery with an adhesion promoter,
Fig. 2 shows, on an enlarged scale, a separated-out
diaphragm in cross-section,
Fig. 3 shows the diaphragm associated with a
securing part,
Fig. 4 shows a closure part which can be fitted with
the diaphragm valve, but has not yet been
fitted therewith,
Fig. 5 shows the same closure part, this time
provided with the self-closing diaphragm
valve,
Fig. 6 shows a variant of the diaphragm in a
sectional illustration like that of Fig. 2,
Fig. 7 shows the diaphragm completed with the
securing part, in an illustration like that
of Fig. 3, using a positively locking
connection between the two basic elements,
Fig. 8 shows, once again, a section through the
closure part fitted with this diaphragm
valve,
Fig. 9 shows a cross-section through the securing
part in a plug-in-channel profile which has
been modified in relation to Fig. 8,
Fig. 10 shows an illustration like that of Fig. 9,
showing a plug-in-channel profile which has,
once again, been modified,
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Fig. 11 shows a closure which has been fitted with
the diaphragm and has a plate part bearing
against the diaphragm, to be precise in a
bottom view with the closure swung open,
Fig. 12 shows the section along line XII-XII in Fig.
11,
Fig. 13 shows an enlargement XIII from Fig. 12,
Fig. 14 shows the closure in an illustration like
that of Fig. 12, but latched in the closed
position,
Fig. 15 shows an illustration like that of Fig. 14,
but with a tamperproof seal being broken,
Fig. 16 shows an enlargement XVI from Fig. 14,
Fig. 17 shows a perspective view, to be precise of
the hollowed side, of the diaphragm
accommodated in a securing part,
Fig. 18 shows the same, but with a view of the rear
side,
Fig. 19 shows an enlargement of that region of the
closure which has the tamperproof seal,
Fig. 20 shows a section, corresponding to Fig. 16,
with the diaphragm curved outward into the
discharging position,
Fig. 21 shows a cross-section through the securing
part with the hollow oriented downward,
Fig. 22 shows the securing part, which has been pre-
fabricated, accommodated in a mold, provided
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with a sub-quantity of elastomer material in
droplet form and in the fluid state,
Fig. 23 shows an illustration corresponding to Fig.
22, but with the counter-mold placed in a
mold-closing position,
Fig. 24 shows a plan view of the diaphragm valve
following production of a slit in order to
provide the dispensing opening,
Fig. 25 shows the section along line XXV-XXV in Fig.
24,
Fig. 26 shows a closure which has been fitted with
the diaphragm and has a modified plate part
bearing against the diaphragm, to be precise
in plan view with the closure swung open,
Fig. 27 shows an illustration like that of Figure 26,
but with the diaphragm valve not yet placed
in position,
Fig. 28 shows, on an enlarged scale, the section
along line XXVIII-XXVIII in Figure 26, and
Fig. 29 shows a modified configuration of the plate
part, shown as a magnified illustration.
The diaphragm valve, which is designated as a whole by
V, comprises a diaphragm or diaphragms 1 and a securing
part 2 which carries the same.
The circular, disk-like diaphragm 1 is punched out of a
band-like, planar material strip 3. Use is made of
plastic sheet material, preferably silicone. The
thickness is approximately 5 mm and the Shore hardness
is around 60.
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The punched patches, which are positioned in a space-
saving manner, are correspondingly closely adjacent to
one another. A diametrically running slit 4, which
forms a lip-like mouth, is also punched at the same
time. The slit 4 extends in a central area of the
diaphragm 1 and, in contrast to the illustration, may
also be realized as a cross-slit, so that, in this
case, there are four valve segments, forming a star-
shaped opening.
Small attachment crosspieces 5 may be provided for in
the periphery of the diaphragm l, so that the punched
patches are kept together with the surrounding punching
waste, this resulting in them being kept in stock in
the form of a reel or roll, or else in the form of a
stack, of a zigzag arrangement, etc.
The originally planar diaphragm 1 is associated with
the securing part 2 in the form of a spherical cap.
Transferring to the correspondingly dome-like
configuration results in characteristic internal stress
in the corresponding mounting region 6 of the diaphragm
1, this internal stress continuing, as it were, in a
stabilizing manner in a stabilizing manner into the
non-connected central area of the diaphragm 1, which is
curved in a rotationally symmetrical manner. The
corresponding curvature is counter to the discharging
direction indicated by arrow x (see, for example,
Figure 5) .
The diaphragm valve V may be positioned on a closure
part 7.
The closure part 7 is realized on a closure 8. This is
located in the head region of a dispensing container 9,
for example a blow-molded bottle with at least
partially collapsible wall sections, this providing the
function of a squeeze bottle which can be compressed in
order for the contents of the dispensing container 9,
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for example a liquid to pasty medium, to be discharged
in a specific manner via the closure 8, with control
provided by the self-closing diaphragm valve V. As the
internal pressure decreases, the said valve V moves
back into the closed position again on account of the
inherent restoring force of the diaphragm 1. Air
equalization takes place by the opening of the slit 4
opening up in a lip-like manner counter to the
direction of arrow x on account of negative pressure.
The annular securing part 2 is connected in a positively
locking or integral manner to the diaphragm I.
It is thus possible for the frame-like element, which
encircles the central area of the diaphragm 1, to be
provided by encapsulation by injection molding.
If use is made of a diaphragm 1 made of silicone, an
adhesion promoter 10 is used. You are referred to
Figures 1 and 2. The adhesion promoter 10 is shown by
patterns of dots there, and is illustrated in Figure 2
as a Layer.
Adhesives may be used in other cases.
In the case of such diaphragm valves V, which are also
produced by two-component injection molding, it is
ensured that the diaphragm 1, in the mounting region 6,
fits snugly into the silhouette on the underside of the
securing part 2. As can be gathered, the outer side of
the dome-like diaphragm 1 continues flush into the
corresponding outer side of the securing part 2. The
narrowed periphery of the diaphragm 1 thus engages
against a step 11 and/or terminates thereon.
In outwardly directed extension, the securing part 2 is
is formed in order to be secured in the closure part 7
by latching or over-engagement on the outer periphery
of the circumference.
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The corresponding anchoring action is achieved by a
latching nose 13 which is integrally formed on the
outer periphery 12 of the securing part 2. This
latching nose engages beneath a horizontal latching
shoulder 14 of the closure part 7. As can be gathered,
the latching nose 13 projects into an open groove 15,
which is directed inwards toward the diaphragm 1.
Beneath the latching shoulder 14, the groove 15
continues into a correspondingly inwardly directed,
horizontal flank 16. The flank 16 is developed with the
effect of providing anchoring support and, in addition,
also performs a sealing action. This is embodied in
that the closure part 7, which encloses the securing
part 2 in a tire-like manner on the outside, acts on
the diaphragm l, at the same time, in the manner of a
cutting edge in the region of overlap with the securing
part 2. This is evident from Figure 5. The cutting edge
is designated 17. It penetrates into the elastic layer-
like body of the diaphragm 1. Of course, the cutting
edge 17, which is rotationally symmetrical all the way
round, is not profiled for cutting. It assists the
integral connection of the diaphragm 1 at the foot of
the diaphragm dome.
The variant according to Figure 8 is of identical
configuration in respect of the actual latching means.
The designations have been used analogously if
necessary for comprehension, in some cases without
being repeated in the text. In this case, however, as a
development, the nose 13 continues into a vertically
oriented annular crosspiece 18 of the securing part 2.
This is seated, axially, as seen in the container
direction, in a stop-defined manner on the flank 16,
and anchored in the opposite direction by the clip
means 13/14.
The annular crosspiece 16, which provides material
accumulation in the region of the step 21, is utilized
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in order to achieve the positively locking connection
between the diaphragm 1 and the securing part 2.
If, according to the basic version, the diaphragm 1
does not have the securing part 2 engaging all the way
around it there, the variant of Figure 8, in contrast,
provides for the securing part 2 to engage around the
periphery of the diaphragm 1 on both broad sides of the
latter. The engagement section provided by the material
of the annular crosspiece 16, however, is short, which,
as has been found, is also sufficient on account of the
internal stress explained above. The operation of
placing the periphery of the diaphragm 1 in position,
for all practical purposes plugging it in, may be
achieved via an annular push rod. That cross-sectional
length of the diaphragm 1 which does not have the
securing part 2 engaging around it here but coincides
therewith is thus greater than the length around which
the securing part engages on the underside. The plug-in
channel which accommodates the free end is designated
19. The dome-like mounting region 6 of this securing
part 2, in the direction of the upper flank of the
plug-in channel 19, provides a relatively long guide
surface for carrying out the installation.
In both cases, the upper section of the securing part
2, which is directed toward the concave side of the
diaphragm 1 and forms the mounting region 6, is
obviously formed as a flat part with an inwardly
directed, tapering lip arrangement 20. This terminates
at a fair distance before the end of the slit or slits
4. This means that there is also still sufficient room
for movement for the free-span curved region of the
diaphragm l, for the purpose of curving outwards in the
discharging direction indicated by arrow x, this taking
place via the dead-center line defined by 20. The
return curvature is brought about by the restoring
force of the diaphragm 1.
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The annular flat part or securing part 2 converges in
the direction of the center of the diaphragm 1. It is
thus possible for residual quantities of medium which
have not been discharged, that is to say they have not
freed from the lip mouth, and are collected in front of
the slit 4, to be sucked back into the dispensing
container 9 again, via the slit 4, by negative
pressure. The correspondingly plate-like hollow, which
forms something of a collecting basin, is designated
21.
In respect of the geometry of the diaphragm l, it
should also be noted that the radius of curvature R of
the diaphragm 1 both of the basic version and that of
the variant is between the dimension of the diameter D
and that of the radius of the diaphragm l, preferably
four fifths of the diameter D. The diameter D is 19 mm.
The free-span region takes up about half the diameter
D. The thickness of the diaphragm valve V throughout is
approximately a quarter of the diameter D.
Even in the case of geometries which tend toward a
shorter radius value, the diaphragm 1, prior to
connection to the securing part 2, has a planar
surface.
The closure 8 is produced by plastic injection molding.
It is also possible here to provide for further
functional elements, for example a closure lid 22. This
is positioned above the discharging region 23 such that
it can be moved out of the dispensing path. In its
basic position, that is to say in its protective
position, the closure lid 22, which is realized as a
swing lid, disappears into a head-side transverse shaft
24 in the top 25 of the closure 8.
Likewise extending from the top 25, counter to the
discharging direction indicated by arrow x, are
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attachment means 26 for connecting the closure 8 with
anchoring means on the neck of the dispensing container 9.
Furthermore, the closure 8 provides for a deflecting
holder 27 of the closure part 7, this deflecting holder
being disposed in front of the convex side of the dome-
like diaphragm 1. The flow-restraining part of the
deflecting holder 27 is positioned at a free vertical
distance y beneath the diaphragm 1. The region of the
slit 4 here is specifically protected. As can be
gathered, a crosspiece 28 is associated with the slit 4
of the diaphragm 1 in vertical projection. The
crosspiece 28 may be a wall-like base section of the
holder 27. The through-passages for the medium which is
to be discharged are only located on the periphery of
this crosspiece 28, which forms a shield or a
deflecting wall. The apertures in this respect are
designated 29. They release the path to an antechamber
30 of the closure 8, this antechamber being based on
the free distance y.
The variants of plug-in-channel profiles which are
illustrated in Figs 9 and 10 constitute a development
of the positively locking solution which has been
described in relation to Fig. 8. The designations are
used analogously, in some cases without being repeated
in the text. The under-engaging part of the plug-in
channel 19 thus starts at the outwardly directed end of
the mounting region 6. The base of the plug-in channel
follows the slightly conical or frustoconical
peripheral profile of the diaphragm 1. The
corresponding slight tapering results from the
curvature of the diaphragm 1. The flank 31 of the plug-
in channel 19, this flank being directed toward the
underside of the diaphragm 1, projects from said
underside and leaves an annular gap 32. The outlet of
the gap is rounded convexly on the flank 31 and merges
into the annular crosspiece 18 on the outside via an
oppositely directed slope. The transition to the base
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of the plug-in channel 19 is also rounded, to be
precise, concavely.
This configuration aids the plug-in positioning. It is
also possible, however, to provide such an annular gap
32 for integral connection utilizing the mounting region
6.
The variant of Figure 10 is realized as has been
described above apart from a single detail, the base of
the plug-in channel 19 running strictly in the
direction of the radius R. The conical periphery of the
diaphragm 1 thus rises up from the base of the plug-in
channel 19 in a wedge-shaped manner in accordance with
the said frustoconical profile and only starts at an
annular rib 33 on or above the base of the annular gap
33 disposed in front.
The securing part 2, which in this case is more or less
V-shaped in cross-section, expediently has the gate
mark in the vertex of the V, that is to say on the
upper edge of the outer periphery 12.
The radius R is only produced by the integrally molded
securing-part ring. In this case, the inner side of the
s
concave body forms the compression fiber and the
convex, outer side forms the fiber under tension, this
resulting in the narrow periphery of the diaphragm 1.
being oriented in a frustoconical manner.
The closure 8 according to the development in Figures
11 to 20 is basically of the same construction. The
designations have been used analogously if necessary
for understanding, in some cases without being repeated
in the text. It is thus also the case here that a
cutting edge-17 extends from the flank 16, the cutting
edge encircling the discharging region 23 of the
closure 8 in the form of an annular sealing bead. The
cutting-edge-like crest of this annular sealing bead,
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however, in this case is positioned more in the central
region of the abutment-forming mounting region 6.
There is then a change in respect of the deflecting
holder 27 which has been described. It is replaced by a
plate part 34. This extends beneath the diaphragm l,
that is to say it is directed toward the product 35
which is to be dispensed. It is thus not possible for
the liquid product 35, which comes up against the head
of the closure 8 of the dispenser, for example, if the
dispensing container 9 is positioned upside down, to
escape. Proper dispensing of a quantity of product 35
is normally only possible by the wall of the dispensing
container 9 being squeezed deliberately (see Fig. 20).
The plate part 34, for all practical purposes, bears
against the outer wall 36 of the diaphragm 1. It is
thus configured with concave curvature matching the
convex profile of the diaphragm valve V. If need be,
there is a small gap between the two curved parts.
The plate part 34 is of the same thickness throughout.
Consequently, the surface which is directed away from
the diaphragm 1 thus also has matching convex
curvature. This produces a laterally deflecting flow
component when the product 35 strikes against it. The
corresponding flow-distributing function in the
radially outward direction all the way round can also
be enhanced further by providing, for example, the
abovementioned parts with a more intense curved
profile.
The plate part 34, furthermore, is attached to the
closure part 7 via resilient arms 37. The resilient
arms 37 function as pressure-absorbing springs. A total
of three resilient arms 37, each distributed at equal
angles, are realized in the region of an annular
through-passage 38. You are referred to Fig. 11.
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
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As can be gathered, the resilient arms 37 are of Z-
shaped configuration. A Z-crosspiece 39 follows the
central region of the annular through-passage 38, to be
precise concentrically. Radially oriented attachment
crosspieces 40 start in the end regions of the Z-cross-
piece 39. The attachment crosspieces form, as it were,
the Z-legs. An inwardly directed attachment crosspiece
40 is rooted in the periphery of the plate part 34; an
outwardly oriented attachment crosspiece 40 of the same
resilient arm 37 starts at that periphery of a sunken
base 41 of the top 25 of the closure part 7 which
bounds the through-passage 38 in the outward direction.
An integral connection to the closure 8 and, if
appropriate, also to the dispensing container 9 is
formed here. For further details, you are referred to
German patent application 102 18 363. The disclosure
contents of this application are included in full, also
for the purpose of incorporating features of these
documents in claims of the present application.
With the closure lid 22 closed, the diaphragm l, which
is curved in the direction of the product 35, is
supported in the latched, closed position by this lid.
This takes place, in accordance with the abovementioned
forerunner, using a holding-down means which is
integrally formed on the closure lid 22 in accordance
with the profile of the slits 4. In the case of an
individual slit, the holding-down means is in the form
of a crosspiece; in the case of a cross-slit, it is a
matching cross-shaped spike. In the closed state, the
holding-down means thus interacts with the diaphragm in
a position-securing manner. Good transporting
protection is thus provided. The entire arrangement is
also supported from the inside by the plate
partlresilient arms 34/37 unit, which functions as a
pressure-absorbing spring.
The abovedescribed holding-down means is used, in a
development of the closure 8, for product-protecting
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
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sealing purposes. For this purpose, the closure lid 22
of the closure 8 has a cup 42. This extends from the
inner side of the closure lid 22, which is realized, as
has been said, as a swing lid, and opens downwards,
i.e. in the direction of the diaphragm 1.
The cup 42, which is integrally formed in the region of
overlap with the diaphragm 1 and, for all practical
purposes, is cylindrical, engages in a sealing manner,
by way of its free end periphery 43, in the closed
state of the closure 8 against the corresponding inner
wall 44 of the hollow 21 of the diaphragm 1. The plate
part 34/resilient arms 37 unit provides an effective
resilient abutment. It is possible for the material of
the diaphragm 1 to yield elastically, within limits, in
this respect, in which case, conversely, positive
pressure produced in the interior of the dispensing
container 9 further enhances the sealing closure and/or
the sealing seating of the cup 42 as it approaches in
the inverted state.
As can be gathered from Fig. 16, the end periphery 43
is configured to follow the contour of the diaphragm 1,
more precisely the inner wall 44, that is to say such
_ 25 that it slopes down in the outward direction in a
slightly frustoconical manner here.
As far as the congruent seating of the cup 42 in
respect of the aperture 45 of the diaphragm l, the
aperture being encircled by the lip arrangement 20, is
concerned, this also has centering action in relation
to the securing part 2.
However, this also makes it possible at the same time
to achieve a second sealing action between the parts 2
and 42, whioh is embodied in that the free outer
periphery 46 of the cup 42 is directly adjacent to the
inner wall 44 of the diaphragm 1 in the closed state,
in which case, in addition to the correct orientation
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
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being achieved, the situation where the outer periphery
46 of the cup 42 bears in a sealing manner against the
inner periphery 47 of the aperture 45 of the securing
part 2 is also achieved. The material has a
correspondingly elastomeric character.
To increase the sealing action, the securing part 2,
associated with the outer periphery 46 of the cup 42,
has a sealing profiling 48. This achieves threefold
sealing via the diaphragm valve V, namely via the
cutting edge 17, which presses into the diaphragm l,
via the end periphery 43, which positions itself in a
sealing manner on the diaphragm 1 in the opposite
direction, and via the centering location between the
outer wall 46 of the cup 42, this interacting in a
sealing manner with the inner wall 47 of the securing
part 2, which forms part of the diaphragm valve V.
The expansion action which has been mentioned, however
caused, results in the diaphragm 1 pushing out on the
cup side, to be precise counter to the resistance of
the air enclosed in the cup 42. The corresponding "air
cushion" acts in a compliant, but nevertheless an
increasingly expansion-inhibiting, manner. There are no
losses of product 35 from leakage, even when the slit 4
of the diaphragm 1 is provided such that it projects
beyond the plate part 34 in the radially outward
direction. Rather, in the expansion stage described,
pressure acting on the outer wall 36 of the diaphragm 1
has a slit-closing tendency, this slit 4 only opening
when actuating pressure which is necessary for
operation is applied.
Tr~e closure lid 22 is retained in the closed position
on the closure part 7 by common latching means. The
attachment takes place via a peripheral film hinge 50.
The closure 8 can be connected to the neck of the
dispensing container 9, to provide sealing closure, via
threaded engagement.
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
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The periphery of the closure lid 22 has a latching
button 51 of the closure 8 passing through it. The
latching button 51 is used, at the same time, for
tamperproof sealing. In respect of such measures, you
are referred, once again, to the abovementioned German
patent application. In one development, said latching
button 51, then, is of rib-like formation on the
visible side. The ribs of such a surface are designated
52. They improve the grip and prevent the initially
described manipulations in respect of supposedly
creating a dispensing path.
The latching button 51 is mounted in the manner of a
tilting lever at the top of the closure part 7 via a
tongue. This articulation location is designated 54.
The latching button 51 is retained at the bottom of the
closure part 7 via a predetermined breaking point 55.
The latching button 51 projects, for actuating access,
through the eye of a loop 56 of the closure lid 22.
Once moved out of the latched position, the tamperproof
seal 53 is broken. The latching button 51 is then
usually anchored such that it cannot be pulled out.
First-time use of the container is thus obvious.
The securing part 2 illustrated in the drawing from
Fig. 21 onward corresponds, in terms of shape and
construction, to that according to Figs. 3 and 7,
regardless of whether a rear-engagement region 57 is
desired or not. The latter runs arcuately parallel to
the mounting region 6 and forms, as a plug-in channel
19, the contour of the circumferential periphery 58 of
the diaphragm 1 which is to be formed.
The rear-engagement region 57, as a rotationally
symmetrical flank of the plug-in channel 19, is
considerably shorter than the arcuately parallel
mounting region 6.
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
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According to the specification for Fig. 21 onward, the
diaphragm 1 is integrally formed utilizing the plug-in
channel 19, in this case involved in the molding
operation.
The diaphragm 1 consists of an elastomer, in particular
a silicone material, referred to throughout as
elastomer material 59.
The securing part 2, which is produced by plastic
injection molding, is accommodated in a mold 60. This
has a mold cavity 61 with a contour corresponding to
> the associated side of the securing part 2. As can be
gathered, the mold cavity allows for the profile of the
flank 16 of the annular crosspiece 18 and also for the
profile of the latching nose 13 in the region of the
outer periphery 12 of the securing part 2.
Following the mold cavity 61, the central region of the
mold 60 follows, in terms of cross-section, an arcuate
line 62. The radius of curvature corresponds
substantially to that which has been explained above,
although in this case it is designated R'. R extends
through the central fiber of the diaphragm, while R' is
identical to the inner fiber.
The arcuate line 62 and the mounting regions 6, which
slope down to the periphery, are completely flush on
the upper side.
The elastomer material 59 is then fed, to be precise in
the fluid state, to the securing part 2 accommodated in
the mold 60. This suitably takes place at the vertex of
the spherical region of the mold 60. The corresponding
addition is illustrated as a material accumulation in
droplet form a
The mold 60 set up in this way is then provided with a
counter-mold 63, which completes the mold cavity 61.
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
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This counter-mold, upon. closure, distributes the
elastomer material 59 in order to form the diaphragm as
desired. The closed mold arrangement, which is
comparable to the waffle-iron principle, can be
gathered from Fig. 23. It operates without injection
points.
Any air enclosed passes out of the mold arrangement in
the region of the plug-in channel 19, which is finally
completely filled, the air passing out, for example,
via axial transverse channels 64 which are incorporated
in the annular crosspiece 18 and adjoin vent holes 65
of the mold 60, which are open at the bottom.
The congruent arrangement of the air-discharging
elements may be ensured by following relevant markings
(not illustrated).
The elastomer material 59, which cures preferably by a
crosslinking reaction, is connected at least integrally
to the contact surfaces of the securing part. This
would correspond to an attachment contour as can be
gathered from Fig. 3. If, in contrast, a positively
locking securing action is desired at the same time,
then this is brought about via the abovedescribed rear-
engagement regions 57, which provide for an engagement
over three adjacent sides.
The mating spherical arcuate line of the internally
concave counter-mold 63 is designated 66. You are
referred to Fig. 23.
The elastomer material 59 is supplied and apportioned
by means of an extruder (not illustrated). The quantity
used up can be precisely established, so that excess
discharge is avoided. Any additional quantities,
moreover, can also move out into the transverse
channels 64. They perform a stopper function there, it
also being the case that passage beyond the sheet
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
- 26 -
material forming the diaphragm l, in combination with
the crosslinking achieved, is intrinsically ruled out
for all practical purposes.
Added to this is the fact that the circumferential
periphery 58 of the diaphragm l, in contrast to a
punched-out diaphragm 1, is formed without any cut
edges. Rather, the circumferential periphery 58 is
formed in a close-fitting manner, that is to say it
adapts very well to tolerance deviations. It is
generally the case that depositing a droplet-like
quantity of elastomer material 59 at the center of the
highest point of the concavely curved mold 60 is
excellent for providing good distribution. The same
distributing conditions are present in the radially
outward direction. These are further enhanced by the
profile of the contour determined by the arcuate line
62, this profile sloping downward in a rotationally
symmetrical manner.
Overall, the invention provides a self-closing
diaphragm valve V which is accommodated in an annular
securing part 2, produced plastic injection molding,
and has a diaphragm 1 made of an elastomer material 59
with a slit 4 for forming a dispensing opening, the
latter responding when the collapsible wall of the
dispensing container 9 is acted upon by pressure, and,
when formed in a manner in which it is free of cut
edges on its circumferential periphery 58, the
diaphragm 1 is connected in a positively locking and/or
integral manner to the securing part 2.
The variant of Figure 26 onwards corresponds, in terms
of basic construction, to the basic version which has
been illustrated in detail, in particular to the
configuration. according to Figure 16. The designations
are used analogously, in some cases without being
repeated in the text.
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
- 27 -
A structural modification in relation to Figure 16,
then, consists in the diaphragm 1 resting at least
centrally on the plate part 34 positioned beneath it.
This results in central support with slight indentation
in the core of the cross-slit region. The slit 4 may
also be configured differently.
It is the outer wall 36 of the diaphragm 1 which is
involved here. The plate part 34 tapers centrally to a
stub 67 in the form of a flat disk. The upper surface
of this stub is of planar configuration. In the case of
a dispenser version with a closure 8 of the magnitude
which can be gathered from Figure 26, the surface of
the stub measures approximately 1 to 2 mm.
The tapering may be of trumpet-like configuration, as
can be gathered from Figure 29, that is to say a
protuberance extending in the direction of the
dispensing container 9, or else in the manner of a
stepped cone 68 (see Figure 28).
The latter has a base corresponding to a number of
times the diameter of the cylindrical stub 67. Said
base, which is itself configured in the form of a disk,
is rooted in the upper side of the plate part 34, the
latter likewise being in the form of a disk; from which
the resilient arms 37 extend in the manner described.
The steps, which are all provided in an interspace
between the diaphragm 1 and the plate part 34, are
designated 69. They run concentrically in relation to
one another. The periphery of the plate part 34, at the
same time, forms a step 69.
The region outside the center, which is located around
the central support, is an enlarged annular gap 70. The
latter aids the discharge, for example, of pellet-like
bodies, in particular guidance toward the pushing-out
slit region of the diaphragm 1.
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
- 28 -
The stubs 69, which are located in the manner of
chicanes in the flow region, help to loosen the
substance which is to be discharged.
The plate part 34, which subjects the diaphragm 1 to a
gap-enlarging forcing action and has a protrusion in
the center, may be subjected to prestressing in the
dispensing direction. This can be achieved extremely
well during the injection-molding operation via the
connecting bridges, in the form of resilient arms 37,
in the direction of the base 41. In addition, or
instead of this, it is also possible for the diaphragm
1 to have support-enhancing prestressing.
When the material which is to be dispensed is
discharged, the diaphragm 1 pushes outwards in the
manner which is shown in Figure 20, in which case, at
the same time, the annular gap 70 visibly widens beyond
the antechamber size achieved. The through-passage of
the closure 8 is also designated 38 here. It is made up
of all the free surroundings of the resilient arms 37.
It is nevertheless also possible here for the
dispensing substance to be in liquid form.
It is then also one development in respect of the cup
42. This structural modification provides that the
outer periphery 46 of the cup 42 has longitudinal ribs
71 which are seated on the securing part 2 in the
closed position of the closure 8. These longitudinal
ribs extend virtually over the entire height of the
lateral wall of the cylindrical cup 42. The radially
outwardly projecting longitudinal ribs 71 are rooted
both in the said lateral wall and in the top of the
swing lid 23 of the closure 8.
The distribution of the longitudinal ribs 71 can be
seen from a glance, for example, at Figure 26. Two
extend along the diameter of the cup 42, to be precise
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
- 29 -
parallel to the film hinge 50, which forms a swing
axis. A third longitudinal rib located at the angle
is
bisector , to be precise on that side of the cup
42
which is directed away from the film hinge 50. Figure
28 uses chain-dotted lines to w a solution which
sho in
use is also arrangement.
made of
a diametrical
The end surface 72 of the longitudinal ribs 71, this
end surface being directed towards the securing part 2,
is cut in a sloping manner to follow the indented
profile of the lip arrangement 20 of the securing part
2. The end surfaces 72 converge in the direction of the
diaphragm 1. The sloping profile is located
approximately at an angle of 30° to 40° in relation to
a horizontal.
The end surfaces 72 still just extend in projection of
the cutting edge 17. The downwardly forcing action of
the longitudinal ribs 71, with utilization of the
elastic material of the diaphragm l, results in an
excellent sealing closure.
According to the basic version, the cup 42 itself
performs the said holding-down function by way of its
end periphery 43. In the variant according to Figure
28, the corresponding end periphery 73 is provided by
an inner chamfer. This can go as far as rotationally
symmetrical, wedge-like tapering, which provides the
periphery of the cup 42, in the region of the outer
periphery 46, with adaptive elasticity in relation to
the inner periphery 47 of the lip arrangement 20. The
positive pressure which occurs in the cup interior
results in the reduced-material periphery of the cup 42
fitting closely in a sealing manner, which enhances the
desired sealing closure in relation to the inner
periphery 47..
In the region of the film hinge 50, the closure 8 in
question has a latching protrusion 74. The latter
CA 02495137 2005-02-09
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interacts with a corresponding mating catch 75 of the
swing lid 22. This devices takes effect when the swing
lid 22 has been pivoted to a sufficient extent into its
open position. It thus cannot cross the path of the
product which is to be dispensed; it is also the case
that the view of the target location is not impaired.
The latching protrusion 74 and mating catch 75 are
located in the region of a window-like cutout 76 of the
film hinge 50.
lI1 front of the cutout 76 on the lid side, the lid 22
has a strip 77. This forms a screen. Since the strip is
free-standing, liquid which is still located in the
dispensing region can run out/dry via the window-like
cutout.
All features disclosed are (in themselves) pertinent to
the invention. The disclosure contents of the
associated/attached priority documents (copy of the
prior application) are hereby also included in full in
the disclosure of the application, also for the purpose
of incorporating features of these documents in claims
of the present application.
