DISPENSER FOR TREATING A TEXTILE

Abstract

A dispenser for treating a textile is disclosed. The dispenser includes a dispenser body defining an interior cavity for storage of a composition and an applicator assembly coupleable to the dispenser body in an assembled configuration. The applicator assembly includes an applicator body defining an outer surface with a central orifice extending therethrough and a plurality of projections extending from and arranged on at least a first portion and a second portion of the outer surface of the applicator body, the plurality of projections arranged on the first portion differing from the plurality of projections arranged on the second portion, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the dispenser body is orientable into a first orientation or a second orientation to dispense the composition and massage the textile with the plurality of projections of the first portion or second portion.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for treating textiles, particularly fabrics, and more particularly to a dispenser for dispensing and massaging a composition onto textiles, as well as a method of manufacturing the same.

BACKGROUND

Compositions exist for pre-treating stains, odors, spills and the like on textiles such as carpets, clothing and other fabrics prior to further cleaning. However, problems arise in the relation to the application of these compositions in that simply spraying the composition onto the textile and then rubbing the composition into the area to be treated with existing applicators such as a cloth, bristle brush, or foam sponge, does not give consistent results and does not make for best use of the compositions provided. Additionally, delicate textiles may be too fragile to be scrubbed with these applicators as they may tear the textile.

It would therefore be beneficial to provide a dispenser for treating a textile with a composition, where the dispenser dispenses and massages the composition onto the textile with a multipurpose applicator that is capable of treating both delicate and sturdy textiles, as well as a variety of stain types.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure provides a dispenser for a composition that treats a stained area on a textile. In particular, orienting the dispenser in a specific orientation relative to the stained area allows the user to selectively massage various projections of specific sizes and shapes on the stained area to pre-treat the stained area either with or without the composition. The characteristics of the various projections allow for use of the dispenser on a variety of different fabric and stain types.

The present disclosure includes, without limitation, the following example embodiments.

In one example embodiment, a dispenser for treating a textile, the dispenser comprising: a dispenser body comprising a body wall extending along a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an open end and defining an interior cavity for storage of a composition; an applicator assembly coupleable to the open end of the dispenser body in an assembled configuration, the applicator assembly comprising: an applicator body defining an outer surface with a central orifice extending therethrough and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the dispenser body, and a plurality of projections extending from and arranged on at least a first portion and a second portion of the outer surface of the applicator body, the plurality of projections arranged on the first portion having one or both of a size and shape that differs from one or both of a size and shape of the plurality of projections arranged on the second portion, wherein, when the applicator assembly and the dispenser body are in the assembled configuration, the dispenser body is orientable into a first orientation such that the composition is flowable from the open end through the central orifice and capable of being massaged onto the textile using the plurality of projections on the first portion or orientable into a second orientation for massaging the textile using the plurality of projections on the second portion, is provided.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the outer surface of the applicator body is convex, with the first portion defining a substantially planar surface through which the central orifice extends and oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in the assembled configuration, and the second portion defining first and second angled surfaces oriented adjacent to and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the plurality of projections comprise: a first plurality of projections radially spaced around the central orifice on the planar surface, a second plurality of projections arranged on the first angled surface, and a third plurality of projections arranged on the second angled surface, wherein one or both of the size and shape of the first plurality of projections differs from one or both of the size and shape of the second plurality of projections and the third plurality of projections.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the first and second angled surfaces are angled at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the longitudinal axis and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion, and wherein the dispenser body is orientable into approximately a 90 degree angle relative to the textile in the first orientation and orientable into approximately a 45 degree relative to the textile in the second orientation.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the third plurality of projections define a hemispherical shape of a first size, the first plurality of projections define a hemispherical shape of a second size being four times the first size, and the second plurality of projections define an elongated hemispherical shape of a third size.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the first plurality of projections further define a hemispherical shape of a fourth size, the fourth size being two times the first size.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the plurality of projections are a thermoplastic elastomer overmolded onto the applicator body.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the dispenser body comprises a non-rigid and depressible gripping region that upon application of pressure thereto, allows for flow of the composition through the central orifice.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the applicator assembly is permanently coupled to or removable from the dispenser body in the assembled configuration.

In some example embodiments of the dispenser of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the dispenser further comprises a cap engageable with the applicator assembly in the assembled configuration, the cap defining a central projection that aligns with and covers the central orifice in the assembled configuration so as to prevent flow of the composition through the central orifice.

In another example embodiment, a method of manufacturing a dispenser for treating a textile, the method comprising: forming a dispenser body comprising a body wall extending along a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an open end and defining an interior cavity for storage of a composition; forming an applicator assembly comprising an applicator body defining an outer surface with a central orifice extending therethrough and a plurality of projections extending from and arranged on at least a first portion and a second portion of the outer surface of the applicator body, the plurality of projections arranged on the first portion having one or both of a size and shape that differs from one or both of a size and shape of the plurality of projections arranged on the second portion; and coupling the applicator assembly to the open end of the dispenser body to form an assembled configuration of the dispenser, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the dispenser body is orientable into a first orientation such that the composition is flowable from the open end through the central orifice and capable of being massaged onto the textile using the plurality of projections on the first portion or orientable into a second orientation for massaging the textile using the plurality of projections on the second portion, is provided.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the outer surface of the applicator body is convex, and wherein forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the first portion defining a substantially planar surface through which the central orifice extends and oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in the assembled configuration, and forming the second portion defining first and second angled surfaces oriented adjacent to and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the method comprises forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the plurality of projections comprising a first plurality of projections radially spaced around the central orifice on the planar surface, a second plurality of projections arranged on the first angled surface, and a third plurality of projections arranged on the second angled surface, wherein one or both of the size and shape of the first plurality of projections differs from one or both of the size and shape of the second plurality of projections and the third plurality of projections.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the method comprises forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the first and second angled surfaces at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the longitudinal axis and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion, wherein the dispenser body is orientable into approximately a 90 degree angle relative to the textile in the first orientation and orientable into approximately a 45 degree relative to the textile in the second orientation.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the method comprises forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the third plurality of projections defining a hemispherical shape of a first size, the first plurality of projections defining a hemispherical shape of a second size being four times the first size, and the second plurality of projections defining an elongated hemispherical shape of a third size.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the method comprises forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the first plurality of projections further defining a hemispherical shape of a fourth size, the fourth size being two times the first size.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the method comprises forming the applicator assembly comprises overmolding the plurality of projections onto the applicator body, the plurality of projections being a thermoplastic elastomer.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the method comprises forming a non-rigid and depressible gripping region on the dispenser body that upon application of pressure thereto, allows for flow of the composition from the open end through the central orifice.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the method comprises coupling applicator assembly comprises permanently coupling the applicator assembly to or removably coupling the applicator assembly from the dispenser body to form the assembled configuration.

In some example embodiments of the method of any preceding example embodiment, or any combination of any preceding example embodiments, the method comprises engaging a cap with the applicator assembly, the cap defining a central projection that aligns with and covers the central orifice so as to prevent flow of the composition from the open end through the central orifice.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description together with the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The present disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four, or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure or recited in any one or more of the claims, regardless of whether such features or elements are expressly combined or otherwise recited in a specific embodiment description or claim herein. This disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any separable features or elements of the disclosure, in any of its aspects and embodiments, should be viewed as intended to be combinable, unless the context of the disclosure clearly dictates otherwise.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate external views of a dispenser for a composition according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of an applicator assembly for a dispenser for a composition according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the applicator assembly of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 illustrates a detailed view of the applicator assembly of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5A illustrates an external view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 in a first orientation according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B illustrates an external view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 in a second orientation according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5C illustrates an external view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 in a third orientation according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates an external view of a cap for a dispenser for a composition according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 7 illustrates a method flow diagram of a method for manufacturing a dispenser according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. The disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. As used in this specification and the claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The present disclosure relates to dispensers, wherein the dispensers are adapted to or configured to treat textiles. In particular, in some examples, the disclosed dispensers are capable of dispensing and massaging a composition onto a textile. The composition, within the meaning of this disclosure, is any substance such as, a cleaning liquid, gel, foam, slurry, particulate, or the like. Such compositions may comprise a viscous liquid including other components such as oils, gels, paste-like forms, particulates, binders, and the like. For example, the composition may comprise Water, Undeceth-7, Cocamidopropyl betaine, Modified acrylic copolymer, Sodium laurimino dipropionate, Glycerin, Sodium borate, Xanthan gum, Citric acid, Fragrance, Benzisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Calcium chloride dihydrate, Amylase, Protease, and various dyes, similar to the ingredients in OXICLEAN™ MAX FORCE™ GEL STAIN REMOVER STICK. In other instances, the composition is a shampoo, a dye, a conditioner or any other hair products, or substances for use in arts and crafts, such as glue. The composition may also be materials for use in an office environment, shoe polish, soap, cosmetics, lotions, sealing agents, medicaments, or any substance suitable for dispensing and massaging the composition onto textiles as described herein.

“Textile(s)” or “textile material(s)” may be any type of fiber-based materials, including fibers, yarns, filaments, threads, different fabric types, etc., and may refer to woven or non-woven fabrics forming clothing or furnishings. The “textile(s)” or “textile material(s)” may be natural, synthetic, or both and may include dyeing, printing, embroidery or any additional decorative element. Where the composition is for treating a stained area on a textile, the stained area may be caused by any type of soiling of the textile such as staining, spilling, etc., and may or may not have an attendant odor. Such stained areas may be caused by blood, food, grease, grass, ice cream, organic matter, dirt, ink, oil, or any combination thereof that soils the textile such that cleaning is necessary.

One example of a dispenser capable of cleaning such a variety of stains and textiles is illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, which provide exterior views of a dispenser 100 showing exterior features thereof. As seen therein, the dispenser 100 can include a dispenser body 102 comprising a body wall 104 extending along a longitudinal axis from a closed end 106 to an open end 108 (FIG. 3). The open end 108 may comprise a neck 110 comprising one or more locking mechanisms 112 that interlock with locking mechanisms 116 (see FIG. 3). The body wall 104 can be in any shape or size. A distance that the body wall 104 extends between the closed end 106 and the open end 108 defines a height or length of the dispenser body 102. The closed end 106 may be formed so that the dispenser body 102 may stand upright on the closed end when not in use. For example, the closed end 106 may be a planar surface. As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the body wall 104 is of a substantially cylindrical shape with a central region narrower in diameter than a diameter of the closed end 106 and the open end 108; although the body wall 104 may be any type of shape such as, for example, quadrilateral, conical, spherical, and the like.

The body wall 104 may define an interior cavity 114 (FIG. 3) for storage of a composition. The interior cavity 114 may extend an entirety of the length of the dispenser body 102 or only a portion thereof. For example, the interior cavity 114 may extend from the closed end 106 to the open end 108. The body wall 104 of the dispenser body 102 may be non-rigid and depressible upon application of pressure thereto, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B. More particularly, the body wall 104 may be flexible, such that the body wall 104 may be laterally compressible by a user about the central region so as to push air and the composition out of the interior cavity 114. Laterally compressing the body wall 104 while the dispenser body 102 is inverted utilizes gravity to urge the composition to flow from the closed end 106 where it settles towards the open end 108. A non-rigid and depressible gripping region 118 may be formed about the body wall in the central region such that upon application of pressure thereto, flow of the composition is allowed through the open end 108 and a central orifice (described in more detail below). The gripping region may comprise one or more gripping members that provide a non-slip and easily graspable portion of the dispenser body 102.

The body wall 104 and/or the gripping region 118 may be comprised of a polymer, such as, for example, high density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), or low density Polyethylene (LDPE), to enable compressibility thereof, or any other material that allows for deformation of the body wall 104. Notably, HDPE is recyclable and widely available such that it may be desirably used as the material for the body wall 104, although any recyclable and compressible material could be used. Thus, in light of the deformability of the dispenser body 102 due in part to its material, the dispenser 100 may not require any additional components to create pressure or suspend the composition prior to use. However, the dispenser 100 may utilize a pressurized propellant, squeeze bulb, or other additional components to generate additional pressure.

The dispenser 100 may also comprise an applicator assembly 120 coupleable to the open end 108 of the dispenser body 102 in an assembled configuration. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the applicator assembly may comprise at least an applicator body 122 defining an outer surface with a central orifice 124 extending therethrough and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the dispenser body 102, the composition being flowable from the open end 108 through the central orifice 124. The central orifice 124 may define a diameter smaller than a diameter of the open end 108 of the dispenser body 102. The applicator body 122 may be comprised of a polymer, such as, for example but not limited to, HDPE, PP, or LDPE.

In some example embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3, for example, the outer surface of the applicator body 122 is convex, with a first portion 126 defining a substantially planar surface through which the central orifice 124 extends and oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in the assembled configuration. The substantially planar surface 126 may define a disc-shape, an oval shape, a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, and the like. A second portion of the outer surface may define first and second angled surfaces 128, 130 oriented adjacent to and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion 126. The first and second angled surfaces 128, 130 may each define a shape that is complementary to the shape of the first portion 126. As shown in FIG. 4, for example, the first portion 126 is a disc-shaped planar surface with the first and second angled surfaces 128, 130 being half-moon shapes arranged adjacent thereto. In this example, the first and second angled surfaces 128, 130 are angled at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the longitudinal axis and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion 126. However, other orientations and/or angles of the first and second portions of the outer surface of the applicator body 102 are also contemplated, such as where the first and second portions 128, 130 form a dome.

The applicator assembly 120 may further comprise a plurality of projections 132 extending from and arranged on at least a first portion 126 and a second portion 128, 130 of the outer surface of the applicator body 102. In some example embodiments, the plurality of projections arranged on the first portion 126 may have one or both of a size and shape that differs from one or both of a size and shape of the plurality of projections arranged on the second portion 128, 130. The plurality of projections 132 may be comprised of a soft and flexible polymer, such as, for example but not limited to, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). A more detailed view and discussion of the plurality of projections is illustrated in FIG. 4.

Notably, though shown as different elements in FIGS. 2 and 3, the applicator body 122 and the plurality of projections 132 may be integrally joined together so as to form the applicator assembly 120. For example, the plurality of projections are a TPE overmolded onto the outer surface of the applicator body 122 thus forming an integral applicator assembly component. Otherwise, the applicator body 122 and the plurality of projections 132 may be separable components attachable to one another via locking mechanisms such as, for example, a threaded mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, a press-fit mechanism, an adhesive, and the like.

The applicator assembly 120 may be permanently coupled (i.e., irremovably attached with or difficult to remove by a user) or removable (i.e., coupled to but able to be removed by a user) to the dispenser body 102 in the assembled configuration. Where the applicator assembly 120 is permanently coupled to the dispenser body 102, the dispenser 100 may be discarded after no composition remains in the interior cavity 114. By comparison, where the applicator assembly 120 is removable from the dispenser body 102, the dispenser 100 may be refillable by removing the applicator assembly 120 from the dispenser body 102 and filling the interior cavity 114 with additional composition. In some example embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the applicator body 122 and the dispenser body 102 are coupled to one another via snap-fit engagement, where locking mechanisms 112 on the neck 110 of the open end 108 interface with complementary locking mechanisms 116 on the applicator body 122. Otherwise, the applicator body 122 and the dispenser body 102 may be separable components attachable to one another via locking mechanisms such as, for example, a threaded mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, a press-fit mechanism, an adhesive, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a detailed illustration and description of the plurality of projections 132 is provided. In some example embodiments, the plurality of projections 132 may comprise different groupings to enable a user to treat a variety of types of stains and fabrics. The different groupings may differ from one another based off of one or more different characteristics, such as size, shape, texture, material, quantity, and the like. For example, the plurality of projections 132 may comprise a first plurality of projections 132A radially spaced around the central orifice 124 on the planar surface 126, a second plurality of projections 132B arranged on the first angled surface 128, and a third plurality of projections 132C arranged on the second angled surface 130, wherein one or both of the size and shape of the first plurality of projections 132A differs from one or both of the size and shape of the second plurality of projections 132B and the third plurality of projections 132C.

In FIG. 4, the third plurality of projections 132C define a hemispherical shape of a first size, the first plurality of projections define a hemispherical shape of a second size being four times the first size, and the second plurality of projections define an elongated hemispherical shape of a third size. Additionally, there may be differently sized projections within each grouping. For example, the first plurality of projections may further define a hemispherical shape of a fourth size, the fourth size being two times the first size, such that the first plurality of projections 132A includes projections of two different sizes—the second size and the fourth size. In this example, while the first plurality of projections 132A of the second and fourth size and the third plurality of projections 132C of the first size are all proportionally sized relative to one another, the third size of the second plurality of projections may be the same in size of one of or different than the first size, second size, or fourth size. As shown in FIG. 4, the third plurality of projections are sized to be the same in scale as the first size, albeit with a different shape. As such, the three different groupings of projections may differ in both size and shape, though they may also differ in other characteristics as well, such as quantity, material, and the like.

The different characteristics of the groupings of the plurality of projections may enable use on a variety of different textiles and stain types. Different methods of using the dispenser 100 are illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5C and show that when the applicator assembly 120 and the dispenser body 102 are in the assembled configuration, the dispenser body is orientable into one or more orientations such that the composition is flowable from the open end 108 through the central orifice 124 and capable of being massaged onto the textile using the plurality of projections 132 on one or both of the first portion 126 and the second portion 128, 130.

For example, in FIG. 5A, the dispenser body 102 is oriented in a first orientation such that composition is flowable from the open end 108 through the central orifice 124 and capable of being massaged onto the textile using the first plurality of projections 132A on the first portion 126. More particularly, in the first orientation, the dispenser body 102 is oriented into approximately a 90 degree angle relative to the textile so that the applicator assembly 120 is facing downward relative to the textile and the first plurality of projections 132A are in contact with the textile. The dispenser body 102 may then be squeezed in the first orientation so that gravity allows the composition to be flowable from the open end 108 through the central orifice and dispensable to the textile. The first plurality of projections including the projections of a second size and a fourth size may then be massaged on the textile back and forth in a linear motion in an x-y plane and/or in an orbital motion in the x-y plane. These sized and shaped projections may be useful for initial deposition of the composition on the textile, as well as for treating larger areas and/or stains that have not yet solidified.

In another example, FIG. 5B illustrates the dispenser body 102 oriented in a second orientation such that composition is capable of being massaged onto the textile using the second plurality of projections 132B on the first angled portion 128. More particularly, in the second orientation the dispenser body 102 is oriented into approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the textile so that the applicator assembly 120 is angled downward relative to the textile and the second plurality of projections 132B are in contact with the textile. The angle at which the dispenser body 102 and thus the applicator assembly 120 are relative to the textile may be between about 30-60 degrees, which may depend on the angle at which the first angled portion 128 is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis of the dispenser body 102. While in the second orientation, any composition squeezed through the central orifice 124 may not be transferred to the textile. In order to do so, the user may first dispense the composition onto the area to be treated while the dispenser 100 is in the first orientation, and then orient the dispenser 100 into the second orientation to treat the stain with the second plurality of projections 132B. The second plurality of projections 132B including the projections of the third size may then be massaged on the textile back and forth in the linear motion in the x-y plane. These sized and shaped projections may be useful for breaking up solidified stains, similar to the ridges or corrugations on a typical washboard. Alternatively, the second plurality of projections 132B may be used to treat the textile without any composition.

In another example, FIG. 5C illustrates the dispenser body 102 oriented in a third orientation such that composition is capable of being massaged onto the textile using the third plurality of projections 132C on the second angled portion 130. More particularly, in the third orientation the dispenser body 102 is oriented into approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the textile so that the applicator assembly 120 is angled downward relative to the textile and the third plurality of projections 132C are in contact with the textile. The angle at which the dispenser body 102 and thus the applicator assembly 120 are relative to the textile may be between about 30-60 degrees, which may depend on the angle at which the second angled portion 130 is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis of the dispenser body 102. While in the third orientation, any composition squeezed through the central orifice 124 may not be transferred to the textile. In order to do so, the user may first dispense the composition onto the area to be treated while the dispenser 100 is in the first orientation, and then orient the dispenser 100 into the third orientation to treat the stain with the third plurality of projections 132C. The third plurality of projections 132C including the projections of a first size may then be massaged on the textile back and forth in the orbital motion in the x-y plane. These sized and shaped projections may be useful for delicate fabrics due to their small size relative to the first plurality of projections 132A. Alternatively, the third plurality of projections 132C may be used to treat the textile without any composition.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 6, a cap 134 may be engageable with the applicator assembly 120 in the assembled configuration. The cap 134 may comprise a cap wall 136 and a closed end 138, which may be formed on a surface substantially surrounded by the cap wall 136. The closed end 138 may define a substantially planar surface so that the dispenser 100 can rest on the closed end 138 when not in use. The cap wall 136 may be arranged to interface with and couple to one of the dispenser body 102 and the applicator assembly 120 such that the cap 134 is coupleable to one of the dispenser body 102 and the applicator assembly 120. In this way, and as illustrated in FIG. 2, the applicator assembly 120 is positioned between the open end 108 of the dispenser body 102 and the closed end 138 of the cap 134. The cap 134 may define a central projection 140 that aligns with and covers the central orifice 124 in the assembled configuration so as to prevent flow of the composition through the central orifice 124. The central projection 140 may comprise a diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the central orifice 124 so as to substantially cover the central orifice 124 when the cap 134 is in the assembled configuration.

The cap 134 may be coupled to one of the dispenser body 102 and the applicator assembly 120 via, for example, a threaded mechanism, a snap-fit mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, a press-fit mechanism, an adhesive, and the like. The cap 134 may be composed of a similar or different material than that of the dispenser body 102 and/or the applicator assembly 120. In some example embodiments, the cap 134 is transparent or translucent, or has some degree of opacity.

A method of manufacturing a dispenser for treating a textile, generally designated 200, is illustrated in FIG. 7. The method includes forming a dispenser body comprising a body wall extending along a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an open end and defining an interior cavity for storage of a composition, step 202. The method also includes forming an applicator assembly comprising an applicator body defining an outer surface with a central orifice extending therethrough and a plurality of projections extending from and arranged on at least a first portion and a second portion of the outer surface of the applicator body, the plurality of projections arranged on the first portion having one or both of a size and shape that differs from one or both of a size and shape of the plurality of projections arranged on the second portion, step 204. The method further includes coupling the applicator assembly to the open end of the dispenser body to form an assembled configuration of the dispenser, step 206. In the assembled configuration, the dispenser body is orientable into a first orientation such that the composition is flowable from the open end through the central orifice and capable of being massaged onto the textile using the plurality of projections on the first portion or orientable into a second orientation for massaging the textile using the plurality of projections on the second portion.

The words “about” or “substantially” as used herein can indicate that certain recited values or conditions are intended to be read as encompassing the expressly recited value or condition and also values or conditions that are relatively close thereto such as to vary by only a minor amount that may be accounted for as manufacturing variances or the like. For example, a value of “about” or “substantially” a certain number can indicate the specific number as well as values that vary therefrom (+ or −) by 5% or less, 4% or less, 3% or less, 2% or less, or 1% or less. In some embodiments, the values may be defined as being express and, as such, the term “about” (and thus the noted variances) may be excluded from the express value. Similarly, a statement that a condition “substantially” exists can indicate the exact condition or a variance from the exact condition of, for example, (+ or −) by 5% or less, 4% or less, 3% or less, 2% or less, or 1% or less.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description; and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variations and modifications of the present disclosure can be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A dispenser for treating a textile, the dispenser comprising: a dispenser body comprising a body wall extending along a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an open end and defining an interior cavity for storage of a composition;an applicator assembly coupleable to the open end of the dispenser body in an assembled configuration, the applicator assembly comprising: an applicator body defining an outer surface with a central orifice extending therethrough and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the dispenser body, anda plurality of projections extending from and arranged on at least a first portion and a second portion of the outer surface of the applicator body, the plurality of projections arranged on the first portion having one or both of a size and shape that differs from one or both of a size and shape of the plurality of projections arranged on the second portion,wherein, when the applicator assembly and the dispenser body are in the assembled configuration, the dispenser body is orientable into a first orientation such that the composition is flowable from the open end through the central orifice and capable of being massaged onto the textile using the plurality of projections on the first portion or orientable into a second orientation for massaging the textile using the plurality of projections on the second portion.

2. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the applicator body is convex, with the first portion defining a substantially planar surface through which the central orifice extends and oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in the assembled configuration, and the second portion defining first and second angled surfaces oriented adjacent to and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion.

3. The dispenser of claim 2, wherein the plurality of projections comprise: a first plurality of projections radially spaced around the central orifice on the planar surface,a second plurality of projections arranged on the first angled surface, anda third plurality of projections arranged on the second angled surface,wherein one or both of the size and shape of the first plurality of projections differs from one or both of the size and shape of the second plurality of projections and the third plurality of projections.

4. The dispenser of claim 3, wherein the first and second angled surfaces are angled at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the longitudinal axis and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion, and wherein the dispenser body is orientable into approximately a 90 degree angle relative to the textile in the first orientation and orientable into approximately a 45 degree relative to the textile in the second orientation.

5. The dispenser of claim 3, wherein the third plurality of projections define a hemispherical shape of a first size, the first plurality of projections define a hemispherical shape of a second size being four times the first size, and the second plurality of projections define an elongated hemispherical shape of a third size.

6. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the first plurality of projections further define a hemispherical shape of a fourth size, the fourth size being two times the first size.

7. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the plurality of projections are a thermoplastic elastomer overmolded onto the applicator body.

8. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the dispenser body comprises a non-rigid and depressible gripping region that upon application of pressure thereto, allows for flow of the composition through the central orifice.

9. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the applicator assembly is permanently coupled to or removable from the dispenser body in the assembled configuration.

10. The dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a cap engageable with the applicator assembly in the assembled configuration, the cap defining a central projection that aligns with and covers the central orifice in the assembled configuration so as to prevent flow of the composition through the central orifice.

11. A method of manufacturing a dispenser for treating a textile, the method comprising: forming a dispenser body comprising a body wall extending along a longitudinal axis from a closed end to an open end and defining an interior cavity for storage of a composition;forming an applicator assembly comprising an applicator body defining an outer surface with a central orifice extending therethrough and a plurality of projections extending from and arranged on at least a first portion and a second portion of the outer surface of the applicator body, the plurality of projections arranged on the first portion having one or both of a size and shape that differs from one or both of a size and shape of the plurality of projections arranged on the second portion; andcoupling the applicator assembly to the open end of the dispenser body to form an assembled configuration of the dispenser,wherein, in the assembled configuration, the dispenser body is orientable into a first orientation such that the composition is flowable from the open end through the central orifice and capable of being massaged onto the textile using the plurality of projections on the first portion or orientable into a second orientation for massaging the textile using the plurality of projections on the second portion.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the outer surface of the applicator body is convex, and wherein forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the first portion defining a substantially planar surface through which the central orifice extends and oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in the assembled configuration, and forming the second portion defining first and second angled surfaces oriented adjacent to and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the plurality of projections comprising a first plurality of projections radially spaced around the central orifice on the planar surface, a second plurality of projections arranged on the first angled surface, and a third plurality of projections arranged on the second angled surface, wherein one or both of the size and shape of the first plurality of projections differs from one or both of the size and shape of the second plurality of projections and the third plurality of projections.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the first and second angled surfaces at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the longitudinal axis and converging toward the planar surface of the first portion, wherein the dispenser body is orientable into approximately a 90 degree angle relative to the textile in the first orientation and orientable into approximately a 45 degree relative to the textile in the second orientation.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the third plurality of projections defining a hemispherical shape of a first size, the first plurality of projections defining a hemispherical shape of a second size being four times the first size, and the second plurality of projections defining an elongated hemispherical shape of a third size.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein forming the applicator assembly comprises forming the first plurality of projections further defining a hemispherical shape of a fourth size, the fourth size being two times the first size.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein forming the applicator assembly comprises overmolding the plurality of projections onto the applicator body, the plurality of projections being a thermoplastic elastomer.

18. The method of claim 11, further comprising forming a non-rigid and depressible gripping region on the dispenser body that upon application of pressure thereto, allows for flow of the composition from the open end through the central orifice.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein coupling applicator assembly comprises permanently coupling the applicator assembly to or removably coupling the applicator assembly from the dispenser body to form the assembled configuration.

20. The method of claim 11, further comprising engaging a cap with the applicator assembly, the cap defining a central projection that aligns with and covers the central orifice so as to prevent flow of the composition from the open end through the central orifice.