Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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FLUID DISPENSER
INTRODUCTION
[0001] This invention relates to containers for dispensing fluids, most
specifically
containers which are used for dispensing oil. Most particularly, the invention
relates to
containers which may be used to dispense oil into the engines of vehicles,
especially
motor vehicles.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Oil, such as that used in motor vehicles, is often supplied in large,
bulky
containers. A common preference for the motor industry is that oil is supplied
in containers
of capacity between 4 and 5 litres, corresponding to the capacity of a typical
oil sump for a
motor vehicle. When oil is added to the engine of a motor vehicle, the liquid
is often
dispensed from the container through an aperture located on the engine.
However, the
mass of such a container, combined with the oil stored within it, means that
handling the
container can be awkward leading to difficulties when performing the pouring
operation
and frequently results in spillage. This problem is further exacerbated by the
fact that in
modern motor vehicles the engine is housed lower in the chassis, thus making
it more
difficult to access and increasing the likelihood of spillage during the
pouring operation.
[0003] In addition, conventional oil containers suffer from further drawbacks.
As liquid is
discharged from a container, external air enters the container through the
liquid dispenser
to equalize the pressure difference created by discharge of the liquid.
However when large
amounts of liquid are poured, the air intake into the container is
insufficient or becomes
blocked altogether. As a consequence, a pressure difference is generated
between the
interior and exterior of the container. Due to this pressure difference, when
liquid is poured
the liquid flows sporadically in an alternating or "glugging" action.
Effectively maintaining
an appropriate position of incline when handling a conventional 5 litre oil
container to
overcome this phenomenon, especially when the container is near full capacity,
is
particularly difficult. If the degree of inclination of the container is too
shallow the flow rate
of liquid exiting the dispenser will be too low and oil will simply flow down
the external
container wall. If the degree of inclination is too steep, then the flow rate
may be too high
and liquid exiting the container may "overshoot" the aperture located on the
engine in
which the oil is intended to be poured. Given the complex external profile and
number of
ancillary aspects modern engines exhibit, spillage of oil in the engine
compartment may be
especially difficult to clean up and may lead to various damaging effects. In
addition, an
unpleasant smell and smoke resulting from burning oil can arise as the engine
heats up.
[0004] Due to the fact that oil is an increasingly rare and valuable commodity
and
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considering the above-mentioned problems with conventional oil containers,
numerous
efforts have been made to provide improved oil storage and dispensing means.
Simple
solutions involve the use of a funnel inserted into the engine aperture prior
to pouring.
However, use of a funnel may result in contamination from any material or
liquid residing
on the funnel surface. As such, a cleaning operation is required before
pouring can
commence.
[0005] Alternatively, other proposed solutions involve the modification of the
liquid
dispensing means or nozzle to incorporate an air intake portion which may be
separated
from the liquid discharge portion (see for example WO 94/07756 and GB
2438391).
Although such containers overcome the "glugging" phenomena to an extent,
containers of
this nature fail to provide additional means to control the rate of flow and
the accuracy with
which liquid is dispensed from the container.
[0006] An improved container for dispensing fluids is therefore needed which
overcomes
these problems. Specifically a container for a fluid dispenser is needed that
can overcome
the problem of "glugging" during the pouring operation and provide an improved
means to
control the rate of flow of fluid as it exits the container.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided
a container
comprising:
a fluid reservoir;
a first flow path for dispensing fluid;
a second flow path for permitting the entry of air into the container so that
air can
communicate with the fluid in the container;
wherein the first flow path and the second flow path are spatially separate;
and
a flow control assembly comprising a control means;
wherein the control means is moveable between a first position in which the
first flow path
and the second flow path are closed and a second position in which the first
flow path and
the second flow path are open.
[0008] The present invention provides two pathways, one pathway for fluid to
be
discharged from the container and another independent pathway for air to flow
into the
container. The provision of the two independent pathways ensures the problem
of
"glugging" during the pouring operation can be avoided. Furthermore, the
inclusion of a
flow control assembly provides the container with means operable to accurately
control the
rate of liquid dispensed during the pouring operation supplemental to that
which can be
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achieved by simply altering the angle of inclination of the container.
[0009] In typical embodiments of the invention, said flow control assembly
comprises an
air entry portion and a fluid dispensing portion.
[0010] In one preferred embodiment, fluid in said first flow path cannot
communicate
with air in said second flow path.
[0011] In an embodiment, the container further comprises a body and one or
more neck
portions wherein the one or more neck portions connect the flow control
assembly to the
body. In an embodiment, the flow control assembly is coupled to said one or
more neck
portions. In an embodiment, the one or more neck portions comprise a fluid
flow portion
for dispensing fluid from the first flow path and an air flow portion for the
passage of air via
the second flow path. In some preferred embodiments, the flow control assembly
is
configured to define a fluid flow portion from a first neck portion to the
fluid dispensing
portion for dispensing fluid via the first flow path and an air flow portion
from the air entry
portion to a second neck portion for the passage of air via the second flow
path when the
control means is moved to a second position. The inclusion of one or more neck
portions
comprising fluid flow and air flow portions advantageously ensures that the
respective air
and liquid flow paths maintain their independence.
[0012] In an embodiment, the container body is shaped so as to define a duct
extending
from the flow control assembly to the reservoir for the passage of air via the
second flow
path. Shaping of the container body to define a duct obviates the requirement
for
supplementary features (such as flexible tubing for example) to allow external
air to
communicate with liquid in the reservoir whilst maintaining separation between
the air and
fluid flow paths.
[0013] In further preferred embodiments, said flow control assembly comprises
a
housing. Preferably, the flow control assembly further comprises an inner
member
mounted in the housing. Preferably, the inner member is moveable in the
housing. In
further preferred embodiments, the inner member is rotatably mounted in the
housing.
Preferably, said inner member comprises an orifice adapted to align with an
orifice in said
housing when said control means is moved to a second position. In such
embodiments,
ingress of air into the reservoir of the container is facilitated when said
orifices are aligned.
[0014] In still further preferred embodiments, said housing comprises a first
orifice and a
second orifice and wherein fluid from the first flow path is dispensed via
said first orifice
and air from the second flow path flows through the housing via said second
orifice. In
preferred embodiments, the inner member comprises a first orifice and a second
orifice
and wherein said first orifice and said second orifice of the inner member are
adapted to
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align with said first orifice and said second orifice of the housing when the
control means
is moved to a second position.
[0015] In further preferred embodiments, the first orifice of the housing has
a cross-
sectional area greater than the second orifice. Preferably, the first orifice
and/or the
second orifice of the housing are circular or elliptical. In other embodiments
the first orifice
and/or the second orifice of the housing are diamond shaped. In preferred
embodiments
of the invention wherein said flow control assembly comprises a housing and an
inner
member, the first orifice of the inner member has a cross-sectional area
greater than the
second orifice of inner member. Preferably, the first orifice and/or the
second orifice of the
inner member are circular or elliptical. In other embodiments the first
orifice and/or the
second orifice of the inner member are diamond shaped.
[0016] The container of the present invention comprises control means. In some
embodiments the control means are in communication with the inner member.
Preferably,
the control means are connected to the inner member. In other embodiments, the
control
means are integral with the inner member.
[0017] Typically the control means of the present invention can be moved to a
plurality of
different positions. Advantageously, in such embodiments a user can "pre-
select" a
desired flow rate by moving the control means before commencing the pouring
operation.
When the pouring operation has been commenced, the control means can be moved
further when in the second or "open" position to adjust the rate of fluid flow
thereby
controlling the rate in which the fluid is dispensed. Preferably, the control
means
comprises a tap.
[0018] In preferred embodiments, the container of the present invention
comprises a
duct extending from the flow control assembly to the reservoir for the passage
of air via
the second flow path when the control means is moved to a second position.
Preferably
the duct terminates proximate the reservoir. The duct may be spatially
separate from the
reservoir. Advantageously, in such embodiments the duct does not extend into
the space
defined by the reservoir or the chamber of the reservoir. This ensures the
capacity of fluid
that can be stored in the reservoir is not adversely impacted.
[0019] In some embodiments of the invention wherein fluid in said first flow
path cannot
communicate with air in said second flow path, the container comprises a neck
portion
extending between the flow control assembly and the fluid reservoir, said neck
portion
comprising a fluid flow portion for dispensing fluid from the first flow path
and an air flow
portion for the passage of air via the second flow path.
[0020] In such embodiments wherein fluid in said first flow path cannot
communicate
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with air in said second flow path and said flow control assembly comprises a
housing and
an inner member, said inner member comprises an air entry portion and a fluid
dispensing
portion separated by a fixed member. Thus in such embodiments when the control
means
is moved to a second position, the air entry portion and the fluid dispensing
portion of the
5 -- inner member align respectively with the air flow portion and the fluid
flow portion of the
neck portion so as to allow for egress of fluid from and ingress of air into
the reservoir.
Preferably, said air entry portion and said fluid dispensing portion are
formed in said inner
member. Thus in such embodiments, the inner member is shaped, moulded or
otherwise
configured to direct the passage of air and fluid through the inner member.
-- [0021] In particularly preferred embodiments of the invention, the fluid
dispensing portion
comprises a fluid outlet and the air entry portion comprises an air inlet
wherein the cross-
sectional area of the fluid outlet is greater than the cross-sectional area of
the air inlet.
[0022] In some alternative embodiments of the invention, fluid in said first
flow path is
able to communicate with air in said second flow path. In such embodiments,
said flow
-- control assembly typically comprises an air entry portion and a fluid
dispensing portion
which are spaced apart but does not prevent communication between air and
fluid from
the respective flow paths. Typically (but not exclusively), in such
embodiments, said flow
control assembly is connected to the reservoir by means of multiple neck
portions, most
conveniently, two spaced apart neck portions, wherein a first neck portion
comprises an
-- air entry portion and a second neck portion comprises a fluid dispensing
portion. In said
embodiments, the container comprises at least two spaced apart neck portions,
including
a first neck portion for dispensing of fluid via the first flow path and a
second neck portion
comprising a duct for the passage of air via the second flow path when the
control means
is moved to a second position. Thus, in said embodiments, the fluid dispensing
portion
-- comprising the fluid outlet and the air entry portion comprising the air
inlet are typically
distant from each other and may be located at distant ends of said flow
control assembly.
Advantageously, the positioning of the fluid dispensing portion and the air
entry portion in
such embodiments ensures the fluid and air flow paths are spaced apart to such
an extent
that, although communication between air and fluid from the respective flow
paths is not
-- prevented, there is no significant interaction between fluid from the first
flow path and air
from the second flow path. Most conveniently, said fluid outlet is comprised
in a nozzle at
one end of said flow control assembly, whilst said air inlet is located at a
distant end of the
assembly.
[0023] In embodiments of the invention comprising a first neck portion for
dispensing of
-- fluid via the first flow path and a second neck portion comprising a duct
for the passage of
air via the second flow path when the control means is moved to a second
position and
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wherein said flow control assembly comprises a housing and an inner member
mounted in
said housing, said neck portions may be comprised in said housing and said
inner
member may comprise separate spaced apart orifices adapted to align with said
neck
portions such that egress of fluid from and ingress of air into said reservoir
is facilitated.
[0024] In further preferred embodiments of the invention, the flow control
assembly
comprises means to restrict the range of movement of the control means.
Optionally, the
control means comprises an abutment surface formed therein.
[0025] In embodiments wherein the flow control assembly comprises an inner
member,
preferably the inner member is inclined at an angle of from 5 to 15 degrees.
[0026] The container of the present invention preferably comprises at least
one handle
or gripping means. Preferably said handle or gripping means is hollow and
defines a
portion of said duct. As the handle or gripping means may define a portion of
the duct, the
construction of the container is simplified. Thus the duct can be integrated
within the
normal design constraints of a typical fluid dispenser without the dispenser
requiring
further structural modifications. In further embodiments, said at least one
gripping means
is juxtaposed to said flow control assembly.
[0027] The container of the present invention is particularly suitable for the
dispensing of
fluids. Preferably, the fluid is oil. The invention is not however to be
limited in this regard
and the container of the present invention could be used for dispensing other
fluids such
as, for example, antifreeze, de-icer, screenwash, fuel treatment fluids and
fuel additives.
[0028] Preferably, the container of the present invention comprises a
container which is
formed from a plastics material. Any plastics material having the required
degree of
resilience, dimensional stability and resistance to attack by the liquids
which are to be
placed in the container is suitable for this purpose. Preferably, the plastics
material
comprises commercially available high density polyethylene (HDPE). In some
embodiments, the body of the container is unitary.
[0029] Preferably the capacity of the container is from 3 to 7 litres.
Particularly, the
capacity of the container is from 4 to 6 litres. Most preferably, the capacity
of the container
is 5 litres.
[0030] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is
provided a
method of dispensing a fluid comprising the steps of:
providing a container according to the first aspect of the invention;
moving the control means to a second position; and
tilting the container to dispense the fluid.
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[0031] In a preferred embodiment, there is provided a method of dispensing a
fluid
according to the second aspect of the invention further comprising the step
of:
moving the control means during the dispensing operation to adjust the rate of
flow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] Embodiments of the invention are further described hereinafter with
reference to
the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a front elevation of the container according to a first embodiment
of
the present invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a neck of the container according to a first
embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the flow control assembly according to a
first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the inner member of the flow control
assembly according a first embodiment of to the present invention;
Figure 5 is a front view of the flow control assembly according to a first
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 6 is a front elevation of the container according to a second
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the flow control assembly according to a
second embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the inner member of the flow control
assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 is a front elevation of the container according to a third embodiment
of the present invention;
Figure 10 is A) a plan view and B) a side view of a neck of the container
according to a third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the flow control assembly according to
a
third embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 12 is an exploded view of the flow control assembly according to a
third
embodiment of the present invention;
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Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the flow control assembly according to
a
third embodiment of the present invention in A) a closed position and B) an
open
position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0033] Referring to Figure 1, there is a container (100) for dispensing fluids
which
comprises a reservoir (10) and a neck (11) for fluid to flow between the
reservoir (10) and
a dispensing nozzle (14) when the container is suitably tilted. The body (90)
of container
(100) comprises the reservoir (10). Situated on top of the container (100) is
a flow control
assembly (20) which is connected to the body (90) and reservoir (10) via neck
(11).
Alternatively, or in addition, the flow control assembly (20) may be connected
to the body
(90) and reservoir (10) by any suitable attachment means. Container (100) is
provided with
a gripping portion such as a handle (16) to assist with the fluid dispensing
operation.
Handle (16) comprises a hollow interior and defines a portion of a duct (18)
which extends
from the flow control assembly (20) and through neck (11). Duct (18) may be
separated
from the reservoir (10) by a pinched section or dividing wall (19). Fluid
dispensing nozzle
(14) may include a threaded portion onto which a cap (15) can be screwed when
the
container (100) is not required for any dispensing operation. The fluid
dispensing nozzle
(14) and cap (15) may have additional safety features to ensure the cap (15)
cannot easily
be removed by children (such a cap and nozzle arrangement will be familiar to
those of
skill in the art). Container (100) may comprise other features to improve its
aesthetic
appearance. For example, container (100) may also comprise a member (21)
disposed
between the flow control assembly (20) and the reservoir (10). In an
embodiment, the
member (21) resides between a top portion of the body of container (100) above
reservoir
(10) and a portion of the flow control assembly (20) distal to the nozzle
(14). As the
member (21) is an aesthetic feature of the container (100) it performs no
functional
purpose.
[0034] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3, the flow control assembly (20) is
connected to
the body (90) and reservoir (10) by a neck portion (11). Neck portion (11) is
divided into a
fluid flow portion (12) comprising a first channel (12a) for flow of fluid and
an air flow
portion (13) comprising a second channel (13a) for passage of air. Fluid flow
portion (12)
and air flow portion (13) are linked by a fixed member (11a). Neck (11)
enables
connection of the flow control assembly (20) to the body (90) and reservoir
(10) by
engagement of respective threaded portions on the fluid flow portion and air
flow portion
(11b, 11c) with a corresponding threaded portion (29a) on the interior of a
collar (29)
disposed between the body (90) and reservoir (10) and the flow control
assembly (20).
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[0035] With reference to Figure 3, the flow control assembly (20) comprises a
housing
(22), inner member (30), control means (50), nozzle (14), air inlet (38) and a
fluid outlet
(40). Nozzle (14) may be integrally formed as part of the housing (22) or
connected to the
housing (22). The housing (22) may comprise a generally cylindrical tube
having a first
end proximate the nozzle (14) and a second end proximate the control means
(50). The
housing (22) may be constructed from any mouldable material with oil resistant
properties
such as plastic or metal. In an embodiment, housing (22) is constructed from a
plastic
material such as high-density polyethylene. Typically, the length of the
housing (22) is
from 100 mm to 120 mm with a diameter of from 30 mm to 40 mm. The housing (22)
further comprises a first orifice (24) and a second orifice (26) formed in
housing wall (22a).
It is preferred that the first and second orifices (24, 26) are formed in a
portion of the wall
(22a) nearest the reservoir (10). The first orifice (24) may be shaped so as
to be generally
circular or elliptical. Alternatively the first orifice (24) may be diamond
shaped. The second
orifice (26) may also be shaped so as to be generally circular or elliptical.
Alternatively, the
second orifice (26) may be diamond shaped. However, the skilled person will
appreciate
that the first orifice (24) and the second orifice (26) may adopt a variety of
shapes and that
the invention is not to be limited in this regard. The cross-sectional area of
the first orifice
(24) is sufficiently sized so that, in use, when the container (100) is
suitably tilted fluid can
be transferred effectively from the reservoir (10), through the first orifice
(24) and out
through the nozzle (14). The cross-sectional area of the first orifice (24) is
preferably
larger than the cross-sectional area of the second orifice (26). Typically,
the cross-
sectional area of the first orifice (24) will be at least twice that of the
second orifice (26). In
one embodiment the cross-sectional area of the first orifice (24) is three
times that of the
second orifice (26). In another embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the
first orifice (24)
is four times that of the second orifice (26). Flow control assembly (20)
further comprises a
fluid flow portion (27) and an air flow portion (28). Fluid flow portion (27)
and air flow
portion (28) extend from housing (22) and are respectively coincident with the
first orifice
(24) and the second orifice (26). Conveniently, fluid flow portion and air
flow portion (27,
28) may be formed out of the same material as the housing (22). Fluid flow
portion (27) is
defined by wall (27a) and air flow portion (28) by wall (28a). Fluid flow
portion (27) and air
flow portion (28) are separated in space by wall portion (22b) of the housing
(22).
Typically, fluid flow portion and air flow portion (27,28) of the flow control
assembly (20)
are aligned with the fluid flow portion and air flow portion (12,13) of the
neck portion (11)
of container (100).
[0036] In embodiments wherein the housing (22) comprises a generally
cylindrical tube,
the cross-sectional area of the housing (22) may be constant throughout the
length of the
tube. In other embodiments, the housing (22) may have a cross-sectional area
greater at
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one end. In one embodiment, the second end of the housing (22) proximate the
flow
control means (50) has a cross-sectional area greater than the first end of
the housing
(22) proximate the fluid dispensing means (14). In one embodiment the housing
(22) may
be outwardly tapered in the direction of the control means (50).
5 [0037] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the inner member (30) is adapted to
be mounted in
the housing (22). Accordingly, the outer profile of the inner member (30) is
shaped so as
to generally conform to the inner profile of the housing (22). Thus when the
housing (22) is
generally cylindrical, the outer profile of inner member (30) will also be
generally
cylindrical. Thus in one embodiment, the inner member (30) may comprise a
generally
10 cylindrical member with a tubular portion. Conveniently, inner member
(30) may have a
diameter which is slightly less than the housing (22) so that inner member
(30) can be
mounted in the housing (22) by a tight friction fit. However, the nature of
the fit is such that
the inner member (30) is moveable in the housing (22). In a preferred
embodiment, inner
member (30) is rotatably moveable in the housing (22). Typically, the length
of the inner
member (30) is from 100 mm to 120 mm with a diameter of 30 mm to 40 mm.
Suitably, in
embodiments wherein the inner member (30) is adapted to be mounted in housing
(22),
the length and diameter of the inner member (30) are less than the length and
diameter of
the housing (22).
[0038] The inner member (30) may be constructed from any mouldable material
with oil
resistant properties such as plastic or metal. In an embodiment, inner member
(30) is
constructed from a plastic material such as high-density polyethylene. The
inner member
(30) comprises a wall (30a), an air entry portion (38a), a fluid discharge
portion (40a), a
fixed member (39), a first orifice (34) and a second orifice (36). Suitably,
the inner
member (30) may be shaped so that fluid discharge portion (40a) and air entry
portion
(38a) are integrally formed therein. Fluid discharge portion (40a) extends
from fluid outlet
(40) and air entry portion (38a) extends from air inlet (38). Thus fluid
discharge portion
(40a) and air entry potion (38a) extend within the body of inner member (30).
As shown in
Figures 3 and 4, said air entry portion (38a) comprises a channel defined
between fixed
member (39) and wall (30a). Said channel extends within the inner member (30)
leading to
a chamber (35) with an internal space greater than the volume of the air entry
portion
(38a).
[0039] The first orifice (34) of the inner member (30) may be shaped so as to
be
generally circular or elliptical. Alternatively the first orifice (34) may be
diamond shaped.
Although the first orifice (34) may be formed in a variety of different
shapes, in a much
preferred embodiment the first orifice (34) of the inner member complements
the shape of
the first orifice (24) of the housing (22). The second orifice (36) of the
inner member (30)
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may also be shaped so as to be generally circular or elliptical.
Alternatively, the second
orifice (36) may be diamond shaped. As with the first orifice, it is preferred
that the second
orifice (36) of the inner member (30) complements the shape of the second
orifice (26) of
the housing (22). Typically, the diameters of the first and second orifices
(34, 36) of the
inner member (30) will be the same as the respective first and second orifices
(24, 26) of
the housing (22).
[0040] The inner member (30) has a first end proximate the nozzle (14) and a
second
end proximate the flow control means (50). A fixed member (39) or dividing
wall separates
fluid discharge portion (40a) and air entry portion (38a). The fixed member
(39) extends
upwardly from a portion of the wall (30b) of the inner member (30) located
between the
first orifice (34) and the second orifice (36) and terminates at the first end
proximate the
nozzle (14). The fixed member (39) may be curved in the region immediately
above the
first orifice (34). Advantageously, the curvature of the fixed member (39) in
this region
facilitates the smooth movement of fluid towards the fluid outlet (40) after
exiting the first
orifice (34) when the container (100) is tilted steeply. As depicted in Figure
5, the cross-
sectional area of the fluid outlet (40) is preferably greater than the cross-
sectional area of
the air inlet (38). Typically, the cross-sectional area of fluid outlet (40)
is at least twice that
of the air inlet (38). In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the
fluid outlet (40) is
three times the cross-sectional area of the air inlet (38). In another
embodiment, the cross-
sectional area of the fluid outlet (40) is four times the cross-sectional area
of the air inlet
(38). Furthermore, the internal space comprised in the fluid discharge portion
(40a) is
preferably greater than that of the air entry portion (38a). As such, the
greater internal
space of the fluid discharge portion (40a) achieved by the shaping of the
inner member
(30) ensures that the volume of fluid that can be discharged is minimally
impacted by the
division of the nozzle region (14) of the container into a separate fluid
discharge portion
(40a) and air entry portion (38a).
[0041] The control means (50) of the flow control assembly (20) is preferably
located at
an end distal to the nozzle (14). The control means may include engagement
means such
as an arm, a lever or turning means. In a preferred case, the control means
(50)
conveniently comprises a tap (51). The tap (51) may comprise equidistantly
displaced
ridges (51a) to aid gripping and rotation. Control means (50) may be formed
integrally with
the inner member (30) or may be a separate component which communicates with
the
inner member (30). In the arrangement whereby the control means (50)
communicates
with the inner member (30), control means (50) may be connected or attached to
the inner
member (30) by any suitable means. In some embodiments, projections or ribs
formed on
the interior of the control means (50) may engage corresponding crevices or
slots in the
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exterior of the inner member (30) to enable rotation thereof. In other
embodiments, the
inner member (30) comprises projections or fins which may engage corresponding
slots
formed in the control means (50) to enable rotation thereof. In further
embodiments, the
control means (50) may be slidably engageable with the inner member (30). Thus
the
control means (50) may be moveable by sliding between a forward and backward
position.
When the control means (50) is in the forward position and engaged with the
inner
member (30), the control means (50) may be rotatably moveable to effect a
rotational
movement of both the control means (50) and the inner member (30).
Alternatively, the
control means (50) may be adapted so that a portion fits within the inner
member (30). In
this embodiment, the control means (50) may comprise a cylindrical portion
(52) with a
diameter less than that of inner member (30) so that the cylindrical portion
(52) can fit
inside the tube of inner member (30). Alternatively, or in addition, the inner
member (30)
may be adapted for the insertion of the control means (50). For example, the
inner
member (30) may be outwardly tapered or a linear section of the tube of the
inner member
(30) may have a larger cross-sectional area to accommodate the control means
(50). In all
embodiments, the control means (50) is moveable with respect to the housing
(22) and in
preferred embodiments, the control means is rotatably moveable with respect to
the
housing (22).
[0042] The control means (50) is moveable by engagement of a lever, arm or a
turning
means. In the preferred case wherein the control means (50) comprises a tap
(51), it is
moveable by rotation thereof. In embodiments wherein the control means (50)
communicates with the inner member (30), movement of the control means (50)
causes a
consequent movement of the inner member (30). A portion of the control means
(50) may
be adapted to be mounted in the housing (22) using the same means by which the
inner
member (30) is mounted in the housing (22). For example, the housing (22) may
be
outwardly tapered or a linear section of the tube of the housing (22) may have
a larger
cross-sectional area to accommodate the control means (50). The control means
(50) is
moveable through a range of different positions including at least one closed
position and
at least one open position. Suitable markings or indicia may be provided on an
appropriate
part of the control means (50), flow control assembly (20) and/or container
(100) to
indicate the respective open and closed positions (or any intermediate
positions). When
the control means (50) includes a turning means or tap (51), it may be rotated
through
360 . As such, the flow control assembly (20) can adopt a number of different
"open"
positions which can be used to control the flow rate of fluid when it is
dispensed from the
container (100). Control means (50) may further comprise additional features
to limit the
maximum flow rate. For example, control means (50) may comprise a projection
or
abutment surface formed therein which, once moved beyond a certain position,
abuts a
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13
corresponding projection or abutment surface to prevent any further movement
of the
control means (50). The control means (50) may therefore include a pip that
abuts a
corresponding pip formed on the internal wall of the inner member (30) or the
housing (22)
to prevent further rotation. In another embodiment, the pip or abutment
surface may be
dimensioned so that further movement or rotation of the control means (50) is
merely
restricted and not prevented entirely. If therefore the user applies
additional torque or
force to the tap or turning means then the resistance may be overcome and
further
movement will be permitted. In addition, the container (100) may comprise one
or more
features to prevent movement of the control means (50) when fluid is not to be
dispensed
from the container (100). For example, the control means (50) may be moveable
between
a forward position and a backward position. In such embodiments, the first and
second
flow paths may only be opened by an additional movement of the control means
(for
example, by rotation thereof) when the control means (50) has been placed in a
forward
position. Thus, when the control means is in a backward position rotation of
the control
means is prevented and the first and second flow paths cannot be opened. The
control
means may be slidably moveable between forward and backward positions.
[0043] In some alternative embodiments, the container of the present invention
may
comprise more than one neck connecting the flow control assembly to the
reservoir. With
reference to Figure 6, container (100A) comprises a first neck portion (12A)
and a second
neck portion (12B). Flow control assembly (20A) is connected to the reservoir
(10A) via
first and second spaced apart neck portions (12A, 12B). Alternatively, or in
addition, the
flow control assembly (20A) may be connected to the reservoir (10A) by any
suitable
attachment means. Container (100A) is provided with a gripping portion such as
a handle
(18A), optionally situated between the reservoir (10A) and the flow control
assembly (20A),
to assist with the fluid dispensing operation. Container (100A) also comprises
tubular
member (16B) extending from second neck portion (12B). Tubular member (16B)
may
also serve as a gripping portion so that a user may conduct the pouring
operation by
gripping the container (100A) at its side as well as from above. Tubular
member (16B) is
connected to reservoir (10A) by lower joining portion (16Aa) and upper joining
portion
(16Ab). The container (100A) further comprises a fluid dispensing nozzle (14A)
which may
be formed integrally with the flow control assembly (20A). Alternatively,
fluid dispensing
nozzle (14A) may be a separate component adapted to be inserted into a portion
of the
flow control assembly (20A) or may be attached to the flow control assembly
(20A) by any
suitable means. Fluid dispensing nozzle (14A) may include a threaded portion
onto which
a cap (15A) can be screwed when the container (100A) is not required for any
pouring
operation.
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[0044] With reference to Figure 7, the flow control assembly (20A) in such
embodiments
comprises a housing (22A), inner member (32A), control means (50A), fluid
outlet (40A),
fluid discharge portion (40Aa), air entry portion (33A) and an air inlet
(38A). Fluid outlet
(40A) and air inlet (38A) are typically located at distant ends of said flow
control assembly
(20A). Fluid outlet (40A) is comprised in dispensing nozzle (14A) at a first
end of flow
control assembly (20A). Housing (22A) has a first end proximate the dispensing
nozzle
(14A) and a second end proximate the control means (50A). The housing (22A)
may be
constructed from any mouldable material with oil resistant properties such as
plastic or
metal. In an embodiment, housing (22A) is constructed from a plastic material
such as
high-density polyethylene. Typically, the length of the housing (22A) is from
100 mm to
120 mm with a diameter of from 30 mm to 40 mm. The housing (22A) may be an
elongate generally cylindrical tube. The housing (22A) further comprises a
first orifice
(24A) and a second orifice (26A) formed in housing wall (22Aa). It is
preferred that the first
and second orifices (24A, 26A) are formed in a portion of the wall (22Aa)
nearest the
reservoir (10A). The first orifice (24A) may be shaped so as to be generally
circular or
elliptical. Alternatively the first orifice (24A) may be diamond shaped. The
second orifice
(26A) may also be shaped so as to be generally circular or elliptical.
Alternatively, the
second orifice (26A) may be diamond shaped. However, the skilled person will
appreciate
that the first orifice (24A) and second orifice (26A) may adopt a variety of
shapes and that
the invention is not to be limited in this regard. The cross-sectional area of
the first orifice
(24A) is preferably larger than the cross-sectional area of the second orifice
(26A).Typically, the cross-sectional area of the first orifice (24A) will be
at least twice that
of the second orifice (26A). In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of
the first orifice
(24A) is three times that of the second orifice (26A). In another embodiment,
the cross-
sectional area of the first orifice (24A) is four times that of the second
orifice (26A).
[0045] In one example of such embodiments, the wall of the housing (22Aa) is
linear.
Hence, the cross-sectional area of the housing (22A) may be constant
throughout the
length of the tube. In other embodiments, the housing (22A) may have a cross-
sectional
area greater at one end. In a preferred case, a second end of the housing
(22A) proximate
the flow control means (50A) has a cross-sectional area greater than the first
end of the
housing (22A) proximate the fluid dispensing means (14A). In one embodiment
the
housing (22A) may be outwardly tapered in the direction of the control means
(50A). In a
particularly preferred embodiment, the second end of the housing (22A)
proximate the
control means (50A) comprises a shoulder portion (23A). The shoulder portion
(23A) is
formed from a section of the housing wall (22Aa) which, instead of adopting a
continuous
linear path, curves outwardly before resuming a linear path to create a
"bulge" in the
region of the second end of the housing proximate the control means (50A). In
a
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preferred aspect of this embodiment, the shoulder portion (23A) is formed in a
portion of
the housing wall (22Aa) distanced furthest from the reservoir (10A).
[0046] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the inner member (32A) of flow control
assembly
(20A) is adapted to be mounted in housing (22A). Conveniently, inner member
(32A) may
5 have a diameter which is slightly less than housing (22A) so that inner
member (32A) can
be mounted in the housing (22A) by a tight friction fit. However, the nature
of the fit is such
that the inner member (32A) is moveable in the housing (22A). As such, inner
member
(32A) is shaped so as to generally conform to the inner profile of the housing
(22A). Thus
when housing (22A) is generally cylindrical, inner member (32A) will also be
cylindrical. In
10 a preferred case, inner member (32A) is rotatably moveable in the
housing (22A).
Typically, the length of the inner member (32A) is from 100 mm to 120 mm with
a
diameter of 30 mm to 40 mm. Suitably, in embodiments wherein the inner member
(32A)
is adapted to be mounted in housing (22A), the length and diameter of the
inner member
(32A) are less than the length and diameter of the housing (22A).
15 [0047] The inner member (32A) may be constructed from any mouldable
material with oil
resistant properties such as plastic or metal. In an embodiment, inner member
(32A) is
constructed from a plastic material such as high-density polyethylene. Inner
member
(32A) has a first end proximate the dispensing nozzle (14A) and a second end
proximate
the control means (50A). Preferably inner member (32A) is tubular. The cross-
sectional
area of inner member (32A) may be constant throughout the length of the tube.
Alternatively, the inner member (32A) may have a cross-sectional area that is
greater at
one end. In one embodiment the end of the inner member (32A) with greater
cross-
sectional area is outwardly tapered to facilitate insertion of the control
means (50A). In
another embodiment, a linear section of the tube may have a larger cross-
sectional area
to accommodate the control means (50A). The inner member (32A) further
comprises a
first orifice (34A) and a second orifice (36A). The first orifice (34A) of the
inner member
(32A) may be shaped so as to be generally circular or elliptical.
Alternatively the first
orifice (34A) may be diamond shaped. Although the first orifice (34A) may be
formed in a
variety of different shapes, in a much preferred embodiment the first orifice
(34A) of the
inner member (32A) will compliment the shape of the first orifice (24A) of
housing (22A).
The second orifice (36A) of the inner member (32A) may also be shaped so as to
be
generally circular or elliptical. Alternatively, the second orifice (36A) may
be diamond
shaped. As with the first orifice, it is preferred that the second orifice
(36A) of the inner
member (32A) compliments the shape of the second orifice (26A) of housing
(22A).
Typically, the diameters of the first and second orifices (34A, 36A) of the
inner member
(32A) will be the same as the respective first and second orifices (24A, 26A)
of the
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housing (22A). Inner member (32A) may further comprise an air inlet (38A)
formed in a
portion of the wall (32Aa). In a preferred case, the air inlet (38A) is formed
in a portion of
the wall of the inner member (32A) at the second end proximate the control
means (50A).
In a further preferred aspect of this embodiment, the air inlet (38A) is
formed in a portion
of the wall (32Aa) opposed to the second orifice (36A).
[0048] The flow control assembly (20A) further comprises control means (50A)
which
includes engagement means such as an arm, a lever or turning means. In a
preferred
embodiment, the control means (50A) conveniently comprises a tap (51A). In
such
embodiments, control means (50A) and tap (51A) may comprise substantially the
same
features as in the first embodiment of the invention as hereinbefore described
with
reference to Figures 1 to 5. Thus, control means (50A) may be formed
integrally with the
inner member (32A) or may be a separate component which communicates with the
inner
member (32A). In the arrangement whereby the control means (50A) communicates
with
the inner member (32A), control means (50A) may be connected or attached to
the inner
member (32A) by any suitable means. Alternatively, control means (50A) may be
adapted
so that a portion fits within the inner member (32A). In this embodiment, the
control means
(50A) may comprise a cylindrical portion (52A) with a diameter less than that
of inner
member (32A) so that the cylindrical portion (52A) can fit inside the tube of
inner member
(32A). Alternatively, or in addition, the inner member (32A) may be adapted
for the
insertion of the control means (50A). For example, the inner member (32A) may
be
outwardly tapered or a linear section of the tube of the inner member (32A)
may have a
larger cross-sectional area to accommodate the control means (50A). In all
embodiments,
the control means (50A) is moveable with respect to the housing (22A) and in
preferred
embodiments, the control means is rotatably moveable with respect to the
housing (22A).
[0049] The flow control assembly (20A) further comprises at least one air
inlet (38A) so
that external air can communicate with the fluid in the container (100A). In a
preferred
case, air is only permitted to enter the air inlet (38A) when the control
means (50A) is
moved to an open position. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the air
inlet (38A) is
formed in the wall (32Aa) of the inner member (32Aa) or the wall (50Aa) of the
cylindrical
portion of the control means (50A). In this preferred arrangement, the second
end of the
housing (22A) proximate the control means (50A) has a greater cross sectional
area than
the first end of the housing proximate the fluid dispensing means (14A). As
such, a portion
of the wall of the housing (22A) near the second end is shaped so that the
wall of the inner
member (32A) or the wall of the cylindrical portion of the control means (52A)
is not in
contact with the wall of the housing (22A) in this region. An air entry
portion (33A) created
by a recess or gap is thus present between the wall of the housing (22A) and
the wall of
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the inner member (32A) or the wall of the cylindrical portion of the control
means (52A).
The air inlet (38A) formed in the inner member (32A) or the control means
(50A) is
coincident with the recess or gap of the air entry portion (33A) when the
control means
(50A) is moved to an open position. In a particular preferred aspect of this
embodiment
the second end of the housing (22A) proximate the control means (50A)
comprising the air
entry portion (33A) is formed by shoulder portion (23A).
[0050] In another alternative embodiment wherein air is only permitted to
enter the air
inlet (38A) when the control means (50A) is moved to an open position, the air
inlet (38A)
may be formed in the wall of inner member (32Aa) or the wall of the
cylindrical portion of
the control means (50Aa) and an additional air inlet may be formed in the
housing (22A).
When the control means (50A) is moved to an open position, the further air
inlet in the
housing (22A) has at least a portion which overlaps with the air inlet (38A)
formed in the
inner member (32A) or the control means (50A) such that air can enter and
communicate
with the internal space of the inner member (32A).
[0051] In other arrangements, an air inlet (not shown in the Figures) may be
formed in a
portion of the control means (50A) which is not enclosed by the housing (22A)
or inner
member (32A). In these particular embodiments, air can enter through said air
inlet and
communicate with the internal space of the inner member (32A) when the control
means
(50A) is in any position (i.e. closed or open).
[0052] Further embodiments of the container of the invention are shown in
Figures 9 to
13. Referring to Figure 9, there is a container (100B) for dispensing fluids
which comprises
a body (90B), a reservoir (10B) and a neck (11A) for fluid to flow between the
reservoir
(10B) and a fluid dispensing nozzle (14B). Fluid dispensing nozzle (14B) may
include a
threaded portion onto which a cap (15B) can be screwed when the container
(100B) is not
required for any pouring operation. The container (100B) includes a flow
control assembly
(20B) which is connected to the body (90B) via neck (11A). Container (100B) is
provided
with one or more gripping means such as handles (16B and 16C) to assist with
the fluid
dispensing operation. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, a first gripping
means (16C)
is located at an upper section of the container adjacent to the flow control
assembly (20B)
and a second gripping means (16B) is located at a mid-section of the container
adjacent
to and spaced apart from the reservoir (10B). At least one portion of the one
or more
gripping means (16B) comprises a hollow interior and defines a portion of a
duct (18B)
which extends from the flow control assembly (20B), through neck (11A) and
terminates at
reservoir (10B). Duct (18B) may be separated from the reservoir (10B) by a
pinched
section or dividing wall (19B). Duct (18B) comprises a first section that
extends through
the flow control assembly (20B) and a second section that extends through neck
(11A).
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The container (100B) further comprises a communicating member (12E) linking
the neck
(11A) and handle 16(B). The communicating member (12E) defines a connecting
channel
which comprises a middle section (18Ba) of the duct (18B). The connecting
channel may
be integrally formed as part of body (90B). Thus the body (90B) may be shaped
or
moulded to include the duct (18B). The hollow portion of gripping means or
handle (16B)
defines the end section (18Bb) of the duct (18B). Handle 16B is connected to
the reservoir
(10B) by a joining portion (16Ba). In certain embodiments, the duct (18B) may
not extend
into the reservoir (10B) and may terminate at a position coincident with the
joining portion
(16Ba).
[0053] With reference to Figure 9 and Figure 10A) and B), the neck (11A)
comprises a
first neck portion (120) and a second neck portion (12D). The first and second
neck
portions (120, 12D) are linked and spaced apart by a fixed member (11Ba) and
protrude
upwardly from container body (90B). The first neck portion (120) comprises a
fluid flow
portion (12Ca) defining a first channel for flow of fluid. The second neck
portion (12D)
comprises an air flow portion (12Da) defining a second channel for passage of
air.
[0054] Referring now to Figure 11, the flow control assembly (20B) in
accordance with
the third embodiment of the invention is depicted. In many respects, the flow
control
assembly (20B) of the third embodiment of the invention is similar to the flow
control
assembly of the first embodiment of the invention as hereinbefore described
with
reference to Figures 1 to 5. The flow control assembly (20B) thus comprises a
housing
(22B), inner member (30B), flow control means (50B), nozzle (14B), air inlet
(38) and a
fluid outlet (40). The features of the nozzle (14B) and the housing (22B)
equate to those
described in relation to the first embodiment of the invention. The housing
(22B) further
comprises a first orifice (24B) and a second orifice (26B) formed in housing
wall (22Ba)
with features similar to those described with respect to the first embodiment
of the
invention. Flow control assembly (20B) further comprises a fluid flow portion
(27B) and an
air flow portion (28B). Fluid flow portion (27B) and air flow portion (28B)
extend from
housing (22B) and are respectively coincident with the first orifice (24B) and
the second
orifice (26B). Conveniently, fluid flow portion and air flow portion (27B,
28B) may be
formed out of the same material as the housing (22B). Fluid flow portion (27B)
is defined
by wall (27Ba) and air flow portion (28B) by wall (28Ba). Fluid flow portion
(27B) and air
flow portion (28B) are separated in space by wall portion (22Bb) of the
housing (22B).
Typically, fluid flow portion and air flow portion (27B, 28B) of the flow
control assembly
(20B) are aligned with the first neck portion (120) and second neck portion
(12D) of the
container (100B).
[0055] The housing (22B), and therefore the flow control assembly (20B), may
be
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attached to neck (11A) and the body (90B) of the container (100B) by coupling
means. For
example, housing (22B) may contain coupling members (270 and 280) to enable
attachment to the first and second neck portions (120, 12D). As shown in
Figure 12,
washers (13A and 13B) may be included between the coupling members and the
first and
second neck portions. The coupling means allow the housing (22B), and thus the
flow
control assembly (20B), to be clipped or "snap fitted" to the body (90B) of
the container.
[0056] With reference to Figures 11 and 12, the third embodiment of the
invention may
comprise a flow control assembly (20B) containing an inner member (30B) with
the same
features as those described with respect to the first embodiment of the
invention. Thus the
inner member (30B) has a first end proximate the nozzle (14) and a second end
proximate
the flow control means (50B). The inner member (30B) comprises a fluid
discharge portion
(40Ba) and an air entry portion (38Ba). The inner member (30B) also comprises
a first
orifice (34B) and a second orifice (36B). The inner member (30B) may further
comprise a
chamber (35B). The fluid discharge portion (40Ba) is separated from air entry
portion
(38Ba) by a fixed member or dividing wall (39B). The fixed member (39B)
extends
upwardly from a portion of the wall (30Bb) of the inner member (30B) located
between the
first orifice (34B) and the second orifice (36B) and terminates at the first
end proximate the
nozzle (14B). The fixed member (39B) may be curved in the region above the
first orifice
(34B) as described in relation to the first embodiment of the invention.
Alternatively, the
fixed member (39B) may be substantially linear in the region above the first
orifice (34B)
and instead comprise two intersecting linear walls such as is shown in Figure
11.
[0057] In other embodiments of the inner member (30B), the region depicted as
the
chamber (35B) in Figure 11 may alternatively comprise a vertically extending
channel
which projects upwardly from the second orifice (36B) and intersects with the
air entry
portion (38Ba). Thus in some embodiments the inner member (30B) may comprise a
longitudinal channel and a vertical channel formed therein. The region
depicted as
chamber (35B) may therefore be substantially solid aside from said
longitudinal channel
and said vertical channel. When the control means (50B) is moved to an open
position
the vertical channel defines a pathway through the air flow portion of the
flow control
assembly (28B) and the second neck portion (12D).
[0058] In further embodiments, the inner member (30B) may comprise a first
orifice
(34B) and a second orifice (36B) wherein the circumference or perimeter each
respectively defining the first orifice (34B) and/or the second orifice (36B)
comprises at
least one curved edge and at least one straight edge. In certain embodiments,
the
circumference or perimeter defining the first orifice (34B) comprises at least
one curved
edge and two straight edges. In such embodiments, a portion of the first
orifice (34B) may
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be substantially V-shaped. Such a configuration enables enhanced control of
fluid flow as
the inner member (30B) moves with the control means (50B) to an open position.
In
further embodiments, the second orifice (36B) is elongated such that it
comprises a slot.
[0059] The third embodiment of the invention may comprise a control means
(50B) with
5 the same features as described in relation to the first embodiment of the
invention. With
reference to Figure 13, the container (100B) in accordance with the third
embodiment of
the invention is shown with the flow control assembly (20B) in a closed
position (see
Figure 13A)) and in an open position (see Figure 13B)). Furthermore, the
container (100B)
may comprise supplementary features proximate the control means (50B). For
example,
10 the region of the handle 160 adjacent to the control means (50B) may
comprise a stump
21B such as that depicted in Figure 12. Handle 160 may be proximate or
juxtaposed to
the control means (50B) and flow control assembly (20B). The positioning of
the handle
160 and inclusion of the stump (21B) may provide further structural
reinforcement and
stability to the flow control assembly (20B).When the container (100B)
includes a stump
15 (21B), the interior of the handle 160 may be hollow or solid.
[0060] In all embodiments of the invention, the reservoir (10, 10A, 10B) of
the container
(100, 100A, 100B) comprises a chamber (10a, 10Aa, 10Ba) for the storage of
fluids,
preferably oil. In a preferred case, the capacity of the container (100, 100A,
100B) is 5
litres. However, the capacity of the container (100, 100A, 100B) is not to be
limited in this
20 regard and the reservoir (10, 10A, 10Ba) could be adapted such that the
capacity of the
container is, for example, 2L, 3L, 4L, 6L, 7L or, alternatively, a container
of any given
capacity which is designed to be handled by a user and has a sufficient volume
to
exacerbate the "glugging" phenomenon resulting from the ingress of air as
fluid leaves the
container during the pouring operation. The body (90, 90A, 90B) and reservoir
(10, 10A,
10Ba) of container (100, 100A, 100B) is formed from a plastics material. Any
plastics
material having the required degree of resilience, dimensional stability and
resistance to
attack by the fluids to be placed in the container (100, 100A, 100B) are
suitable for this
purpose. Suitable plastic materials include, for example, high-density
polyethylene.
Typically, the body (90,90A, 90B) and reservoir (10, 10A, 10B) is manufactured
by blow
moulding. In some embodiments, the body (90, 90A, 90B) of the container may be
unitary.
Additionally, the container of the invention may include one or more tamper
evident
features. For example, the control means (50, 50A, 50B) may incorporate a
tamper
evident tab.
[0061] In embodiments of the invention comprising more than one neck
connecting the
flow control assembly (20A) to the reservoir (10A), such as described in
relation to the
second embodiment of the invention with reference to Figures 6 to 8, tubular
member
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(16B) defines a portion of a duct (17A), along which both air and fluid can
flow (See Figure
6). The duct (17A) is connected to the reservoir (10A) by lower joining
portion (16Aa) and
upper joining portion (16Ab). Lower and upper joining portions (16Aa and 16Ab)
may
respectively comprise a hollow portion so that fluid can flow between the
reservoir (10A)
and the duct (17A). The hollow portion within the joining portions (16Aa and
16Ab) also
permits air to flow from the duct (17A), through the joining portions and to
the reservoir
(10A). In one embodiment, only the lower joining portion (16Aa) comprises a
hollow
portion. In another aspect of this embodiment, the upper joining portion
(16Ab) is crimped.
[0062] The container (100, 100A, 100B) in accordance with the invention
provides an
improved means for controlling the flow of fluid dispensed. In the first and
third
embodiments of the invention, operation of the device is commenced by first
unscrewing
the cap (15, 15B) and rotating the tap (51, 51B) of the control means (50,
50B) to an open
position. Movement of the control means (50, 50B) to an open position causes a
simultaneous movement of the inner member (30, 30B) so that a portion of the
respective
first and second orifices (34, 34B and 36, 36B) of the inner member (30, 30B)
overlap with
a portion of the respective first and second orifices (24, 24B and 26, 26B) of
the housing
(22, 22B). External air flows through the air inlet (38) and along the channel
defined by the
air entry portion (38a) into the internal space defined by chamber (35, 35B)
of the inner
member (30, 30B). In some embodiments, air flows through a longitudinal
channel and a
vertical channel formed in the inner member (30, 30B). Air then flows through
a through-
hole (46, 46B) created by the overlap of the second orifice (36, 36B) of the
inner member
(30, 30B) and the second orifice (26, 26B) of the housing (22, 22B) and
through the
respective air flow portions (28, 28B and 13, 12D) of flow control assembly
(20, 20B) and
neck (11, 11A) via channel (13a, 12Da) which defines a portion of the duct
(18, 18B). In
some embodiments, the air flows along connecting member (12E) via the mid-
section
(18Ba) of duct (18B) within the body of the container before entering the
hollow portion of
the handle (16, 16B). Air continues to flow along duct (18, 18B), through the
hollow portion
of the handle (16, 16B) and into the reservoir (10, 10B). A portion of the air
flow path from
the external atmosphere, to the reservoir (10, 10B) is thus shown in Figures 3
and 11 by
arrow A.
[0063] When a pouring operation is commenced, fluid from the reservoir (10,
10B), flows
along the respective fluid flow portions (27, 27B and 12, 12Ca) of flow
control assembly
(20, 20B) and neck (11, 11A), through a through-hole (44, 44B) created by the
overlap of
the first orifice (34, 34B) of the inner member (30, 30B) and the first
orifice (24, 24B) of the
housing (22, 22B). Fluid then flows along the fluid dispensing portion (40a,
40Ba) and out
through the fluid outlet (40). In some embodiments, if the tilting of
container (100) is
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sufficiently steep, the fluid will flow against the curved portion of dividing
wall (39) before
being directed along the fluid dispensing portion (40a) and out through the
fluid outlet (40).
A portion of the fluid flow path from the reservoir (10, 10B) is shown in
Figure 3 and Figure
11 by arrow B.
[0064] In embodiments of the invention comprising more than one neck
connecting the
flow control assembly (20A) to the reservoir (10A) such as those described
with reference
to Figures 6 to 8, operation of the device is commenced by first unscrewing
the cap (15A)
and rotating the tap (51A) of the control means (50A) to an open position.
Movement of
the control means (50A) to an open position causes a simultaneous movement of
the
inner member (32A) so that a portion of the respective first and second
orifices (34A, 36A)
of the inner member (32A) overlap with a portion of the respective first and
second orifices
(24A, 26A) of the housing (22A). In preferred embodiments wherein air is only
permitted to
enter the air inlet (38A) when the control means (50A) is in an open position,
external air
flows through the air inlet (38A) and into the internal space of the tubular
inner member
(32A). In one preferred embodiment as shown in Figure 7, air enters through
the air inlet
(38A) via recess (33A) formed in the gap between the shoulder portion (23A) of
the
housing (22A) and the wall of the inner member (32A) or the cylindrical
portion of the
control means (52A). Air then flows through a through-hole (46A) created by
the overlap
of the second orifice of the inner member (32A) and the second orifice of the
housing
(22A), through second neck portion (12B) and along the conduit or passage
defined by the
duct (17A). Once air has entered the duct (17A), air can communicate with the
reservoir
(10A) via lower and upper joining portions (16Aa, 16Ab). In a preferred
embodiment, air
can only communicate with the reservoir (10A) via lower joining portion
(16Aa). The air
flow path from the external atmosphere, to the reservoir (10A) is thus shown
in Figure 6 by
arrow A. When a pouring operation is commenced, fluid from the reservoir
(10A), flows
along first neck portion (12A), through a through-hole (44A) created by the
overlap of the
first orifice (34A) of the inner member (32A) and the first orifice (24A) of
the housing
(22A), along fluid discharge portion (40Aa) and out of nozzle dispensing means
(14A).
The fluid flow path from the reservoir (10A) via first neck portion (12A) is
shown by arrow
B. As fluid is discharged from the container (100A) along pathway B, external
air enters
the container through the air inlet (38A) and travels along pathway A, to
equalize the
pressure difference created by the discharge of the fluid.
[0065] In all embodiments, the container (100, 100A, 100B) of the present
invention
provides two independent pathways, one pathway for fluid to be discharged from
the
container and a second pathway exclusively for air to flow into the container.
As fluid is
discharged from the container (100, 100A, 100B) along a first pathway,
external air enters
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the container through the air inlet (38, 38A) and travels along a second
pathway to
equalize the pressure difference created by the discharge of the fluid. This
ensures that
the fluid can be poured in a smooth, even fashion and avoids the alternating
or sporadic
"glugging" action experienced with containers of the prior art. In addition,
the inner
member (30, 32A, 32B) and the housing (22, 22A, 22B) are arranged so that they
are
inclined and slope downwardly towards the control means (50, 50A. 50B) to
allow fluid to
flow naturally back along the fluid discharge portion (40a, 40Aa, 40Ba) and
through the
first orifice (24, 24A, 24B) to re-enter the reservoir (10, 10A, 10B) once the
pouring
operation is completed. This ensures that fluid does not collect in the nozzle
area (14,
14A, 14B) and thus reduces the risk of leakage. Typically, the angle of
inclination may be
from 5 to 15 degrees.
[0066] The container (100, 100A, 100B) of the present invention also provides
an
effective means of controlling the flow of fluid discharged from the nozzle
(14, 14A, 14B)
by allowing the extent of overlap of the respective first and second orifices
of the housing
(22, 22A, 22B) and the first and second orifices of the inner member (30, 32A,
30B) to be
adjusted. When the tap (51, 51A, 51B) of the control means (50, 50A, 50B) is
rotated so
that there is only a small degree of overlap between the first and second
orifices of the
housing (22, 22A, 22B) and the first and second orifices of the inner member
(30, 32A,
30B), the cross-sectional area of the respective through-holes is also small.
Consequently,
the flow rate of fluid dispensed from the container (100, 100A, 100B) is
comparatively
lower than when the degree of overlap between the first and second orifices of
the
housing (22, 22A, 22B) and the first and second orifices of the inner member
(30, 32A,
30B) is large. A maximum flow rate of fluid can thus be achieved when the
first and
second orifices of the housing (22, 22A, 22B) and the first and second
orifices of the inner
member (30, 32A, 30B) are in registry with each other (i.e. completely
overlapping). The
flow control assembly (20, 20A, 20B) of the invention therefore allows a
multitude of
different flow rates to be pre-set by adjusting the position of the control
means (50, 50A,
50B) before commencing the pouring operation. Furthermore, the control means
(50, 50A,
50B) can be adjusted incrementally during the pouring operation at the user's
convenience
to either increase or decrease the flow rate. The container of the present
invention thus
enables active control of the fluid flow. Alternatively, the user may
optionally rotate the tap
(51, 51A, 51B) of the control means (50, 50A, 50B) such that the first orifice
of the housing
(24, 24A, 24B) is in partial overlap with the first orifice of the inner
member (34, 34A, 34B)
but no overlap exists between the second orifice of the housing (26, 26A, 26B)
and the
second orifice of the inner member (36, 36A, 36B). In this configuration the
container will
operate as a conventional fluid dispenser.
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[0067] The inclusions of supplementary safety features on the container (100,
100A,
100B) ensure the user cannot inadvertently adjust the control means (50, 50A,
50B) to
allow a flow rate which is too high. This is achieved by incorporating a pip
or abutment
surface on the control means (50, 50A, 50B) which abuts a corresponding pip
formed on
the internal wall of the inner member (30, 32A, 30B) or the housing (22, 22A,
22B) once
the tap or turning means (51, 51A, 51B) has been rotated beyond a certain
point. The user
may then only continue to turn the tap or turning means (51, 51A, 51B) by
applying
additional torque or force to overcome the resistance and permit further
movement (to
allow movement to a position where the orifices on the inner member (30, 32A,
30B) and
housing (22, 22A, 22B) are fully overlapped for example).
[0068] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words
"comprise"
and "contain" and variations of them mean "including but not limited to", and
they are not
intended to (and do not) exclude other moieties, additives, components,
integers or steps.
Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular
encompasses the
plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the
indefinite article is
used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well
as singularity,
unless the context requires otherwise.
[0069] Features, integers, characteristics, compounds, chemical moieties or
groups
described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of
the invention
are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or
example
described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed
in this
specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings),
and/or all of the
steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any
combination,
except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are
mutually
exclusive. The invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing
embodiments.
The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the
features
disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract
and drawings),
or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or
process so
disclosed.
[0070] The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which
are filed
concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this
application and
which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents
of all such
papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.
