Patent Application
20250206517
Not applicable
Not applicable
The present disclosure relates generally to dispensing systems including an actuator assembly for placement on a container, and in particular, a nozzle insert for a product dispensing system having an actuator.
Pressurized and non-pressurized containers are commonly used to store and dispense product that includes fluids and other materials, such as air fresheners, deodorants, insecticides, germicides, decongestants, perfumes, and the like. In some cases, materials can be stored in a pressurized and liquefied state within the container and can be forced from the container by a propellant (e.g., a hydrocarbon or non-hydrocarbon). In some cases, a release valve with an outwardly extending valve stem may be provided to facilitate the release of the volatile material from the container, whereby activation of the valve via the valve stem causes volatile material to flow from the container through the valve stem. The release valve may be activated by tilting, depressing, or otherwise displacing the valve stem.
In some cases, nozzle assemblies for containers (e.g., as included on a larger actuator assembly) can include a nozzle insert and a corresponding nozzle-insert cavity to form a combined nozzle assembly that can provide a desired flow characteristic (e.g., spray pattern, flow rate, metering effect, and so on). Due to different manufacturing tolerances and errors (e.g., error in pressures applied by assembly machines), as well as user interactions, the nozzle inserts and/or nozzle-insert cavities can sometimes be over-compressed during assembly or at other times. In some cases, this can result in degradation of the dispensing capabilities of the nozzle assembly as a whole.
The present disclosure relates generally to dispensing systems and, more specifically, to a product dispensing system having an actuator with a nozzle insert that addresses one or more aspects of prior art dispensing systems.
According to some aspects of the disclosure, a dispensing system contains a composition consisting of one or more of a deodorizing composition, a fragrancing composition, a cleaning composition, or a composition of the like. Further, the dispensing system includes a nozzle insert. The nozzle insert includes a body with a front portion and a rear portion, a rim, and a nozzle portion that includes an angled wall and an orifice wall. The angled wall extends radially inward and laterally forward from the rim, and the orifice wall intersects with the angled wall and defines a nozzle orifice. Further, the orifice wall extends both laterally forward and rearward from the intersection with the angled wall, and a cylindrical inner surface of the orifice wall defines a fluid passageway that terminates at a forward end at the nozzle orifice and at a rearward end spaced rearward of a forwardmost end of the angled wall.
In some embodiments, a dispensing system contains a composition consisting of one or more of a deodorizing composition, a fragrancing composition, a cleaning composition, or a composition of the like. Further, the dispensing system includes a nozzle insert, which includes a body comprising a front portion and a rear portion, a rim, and a nozzle portion that includes an angled wall and an orifice wall. The orifice wall intersects with the angled wall and defines a nozzle orifice. The orifice wall extends both laterally forward and rearward from the intersection with the angled wall, creating a gap between the angled wall and the orifice wall. Additionally, a cylindrical inner surface of the orifice wall defines a fluid passageway that terminates at a forward end at the nozzle orifice and at a rearward end spaced rearward of a forwardmost end of the angled wall.
In some embodiments, a dispensing system contains a composition consisting of one or more of a deodorizing composition, a fragrancing composition, a cleaning composition, or a composition of the like. Further, the dispensing system includes a nozzle insert. The nozzle insert includes a body comprising a front portion and a rear portion, a rim, a nozzle portion that includes an angled wall and an orifice wall, and a plurality of raised portions located on an interior surface of the rim. The orifice wall intersects with the angled wall, defines a nozzle orifice, and extends both laterally forward and rearward from the intersection with the angled wall. A cylindrical surface of the orifice wall defines a fluid passageway that terminates at a forward end at the nozzle orifice and at a rearward end spaced rearward of a forwardmost end of the angled wall.
In some embodiments, the nozzle insert is configured to fit over a post of an external actuator. Further, in some embodiments, an interior cavity of the nozzle insert is defined by an interior surface of the body, an interior surface of the rim, and an interior surface of the angled wall. The interior cavity and the outlet channel further define a fluid passageway and a central axis. The fluid passageway defines a flow path that is generally parallel with respect to the central axis. In some embodiments, the rim further comprises a rim front surface and a radially central wall. In some embodiments, the radially central wall extends laterally forward from the rim front surface. Some embodiments of the nozzle insert include a plurality of ribs that are located on the interior surface of the body and that extend axially toward an interior cavity of the nozzle insert. In some embodiments, the raised portions each include a stop portion that is defined as a flat upstream face extending radially inward from the interior surface of the rim. In some embodiments, the gap between the angled wall and the orifice wall acts as a swirl chamber and is generally frustoconical in shape. In some embodiments, the orifice wall extends laterally rearward from the forwardmost point of the gap. Some embodiments of the nozzle insert include a plurality of cavities that extend radially inward from an exterior surface of the angled wall. In some embodiments, the orifice wall is cylindrical in shape, and a forwardmost face of the orifice wall defines a flat front face of the nozzle insert. In some embodiments, the nozzle insert further includes a nozzle insert cavity that is defined in part by the body of the nozzle insert. In some embodiments, the nozzle insert is configured to attach to a container including a composition. In some embodiments, at a first time, the nozzle insert cavity is primarily filled with the composition in a gaseous or substantially gaseous state, and at a second time, the nozzle insert cavity is primarily filled with the composition in a liquid or substantially liquid state. In some embodiments, the first time occurs before the second time.
In some embodiments, the raised portions comprise a plurality of sloped portions and a level portion. The level portion is disposed between the plurality of sloped portions. Further, in some embodiments an opening is disposed between the raised portions, and the opening may further define the fluid passageway to the outlet channel or to the gap between the angled wall and the orifice wall.
The present disclosure provides for a nozzle insert for an actuator assembly, which can be used with a product dispensing system to dispense a product from a container through the actuator assembly. Some embodiments can include an actuator and a nozzle insert configured to be inserted into the actuator during assembly, with the actuator including a stop portion arranged to interact with the nozzle insert. While the embodiments disclosed herein depict a push-button actuator, any type of known actuator is contemplated, including trigger-type actuators, i.e., for trigger sprayers. The use herein of the terms “downstream” and “upstream” generally indicate direction relative to the flow of a fluid. In this regard, the term “downstream” corresponds to the direction of a relevant fluid flow, while the term “upstream” refers to the direction opposite or against the direction of the relevant fluid flow.
The use herein of the term “axial” and variations thereof refer to a direction that extends generally along an axis of symmetry, a central axis, or an elongate direction of a particular component or system. For example, axially extending features of a component may be features that extend generally along a direction that is parallel to an axis of symmetry or an elongate direction of that component. Similarly, the use herein of the term “radial” and variations thereof refers to directions that are generally perpendicular to a corresponding axial direction. For example, a radially extending structure of a component may generally extend at least partly along a direction that is perpendicular to a longitudinal or central axis of that component. While the methods and systems disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms, several specific embodiments are discussed herein with the understanding that the embodiments described in the present disclosure are to be considered only exemplifications of the principles described herein, and the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments illustrated. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” mean plus or minus 5% of the number or value that each term precedes.
The term “substantially,” as used herein, may mean at least about 80%, preferably at least about 90%, more preferably at least about 99%, for example at least about 99.9%. In some embodiments, the term “substantially” can mean completely, or about 100%.
The term “weight percent”, “wt. %”, “wt. %,” “percent by weight”, “% by weight”, and variations thereof, as used herein, refer to the concentration of a substance as the weight of that substance divided by the total weight of the composition and multiplied by 100. It is understood that, as used here, “percent”, “%”, and the like may be synonymous with “weight percent”, “wt. %”, etc.
As used herein, “pests” can mean any organism whose existence it can be desirable to control. Pests can include, for example, bacteria, cestodes, fungi, insects, nematodes, parasites, plants, and the like. In addition, as used herein, “pesticidal” can mean, for example, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, herbicidal, insecticidal, and the like.
More so, for purposes of simplicity, the term “insect” is used in this application. However, it should be understood that the term “insect” refers, not only to insects, but may also refer to mites, spiders, and other arachnids, larvae, and like invertebrates. As used herein, the term “insect” refers to and includes but is not limited to insects or arachnids capable of acting as vectors for disease to humans, animals, birds, fish, plants or plant parts, or capable of irritating or causing economic damage thereto. Examples include but are not limited to nematodes, biting insects (such as mosquitoes, gnats, horse flies, ticks, tsetse flies, blowflies, screw flies, bed bugs, fleas, lice and sea lice), sap-sucking insects (such as aphids and thrips), and further include arachnids, ticks, termites, silverfish, ants, cockroaches, locusts, fruit flies, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, scorpions, chiggers, and mites (such as dust mites).
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In general, the product to be dispensed may be any solid, liquid, or gas (or a combination thereof) that is known to those skilled in the art as being capable of being dispensed from a container. In some embodiments, for example, the container 42 may contain any type of pressurized or non-pressurized product, such as compressed gas that may be liquified, non-liquified, or dissolved, including carbon dioxide, helium, hydrogen, neon, oxygen, xenon, nitrous oxide, or nitrogen. In some embodiments, the container 42 contains any type of hydrocarbon gas, including acetylene, methane, propane, butane, isobutene, halogenated hydrocarbons, ethers, mixtures of butane and propane, otherwise known as liquid petroleum gas or LPG, and/or mixtures thereof. In some cases, the product discharged may be a fragrance or insecticide disposed within a carrier liquid, a deodorizing liquid, or the like. In some cases, the product may also include other actives, such as sanitizers, air fresheners, cleaners, odor eliminators, mold or mildew inhibitors, insect repellents, and/or the like, and/or may have aromatherapeutic properties. The product dispensing system 40 is therefore adapted to dispense any number of different products.
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In general, the shape and profile defined by the post 86 and by the nozzle-insert cavity 88 are configured to conform generally to one or more portions of the nozzle insert 50, to facilitate receipt and retention of the nozzle insert 50 within the nozzle-insert cavity 88. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the post 86 and the nozzle-insert cavity 88 define generally cylindrical shapes configured to engage corresponding cylindrical (or other) features on the nozzle insert 50.
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In some embodiments, multiple outlet orifice walls may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the first nozzle portion 152 extends laterally forward from the rim front surface 132. The angled wall 146 extends radially inward and laterally forward from the first nozzle portion 152. The angled wall 146 intersects with the orifice wall 150. The orifice wall 150 extends laterally forward from the angled wall 146. Additionally, the orifice wall 150 extends laterally rearward from the intersection with the angled wall 146 toward the interior cavity 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the orifice wall 150 extends laterally rearward, past the rearmost point of the angled wall 146 but ends before the rearmost point of the rim 116. In some embodiments, the orifice wall 150 may extend rearward, past the rearmost point of the rim 116. In some embodiments, the orifice wall may extend past the intersection of the angled wall 146 and the orifice wall 150, but not past the forwardmost point of the rim 116. With the orifice wall 150 extending laterally rearward from the angled wall 146, a gap 198 is created. The gap 198 further defines a section of the fluid passageway 176.
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Next, as will be discussed herein, the compositions or formulations of the present disclosure provide a pest control or insecticidal composition with reduced levels of VOC (e.g., less than 8 wt. % VOC). Further, to achieve these low levels of VOCs, the compositions employ a combination of effective non-VOC solvents, optimal propellant formulations and concentrations, and beneficial amounts of emulsifiers. Each of these aspects, along with the other components of the compositions, will now be discussed in detail.
Active agent. The active agent imparts insecticidal and/or insect repellent properties to the low-VOC pest composition. In some embodiments, the active agent of the pest control compositions of the present disclosure can include one or more pyrethrins, pyrethroids, and combinations thereof. In specific embodiments, the active agent or agents of the low-VOC pest control composition includes one or more of imiprothrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the active of the low-VOC pest control composition includes cypermethrin. In other embodiments, the active of the low-VOC pest control composition includes imiprothrin. In other embodiments, the active of the low-VOC pest control composition includes deltamethrin. In other embodiments, the active of the low-VOC pest control composition includes cypermethrin and imiprothrin. In other embodiments, the active of the low-VOC pest control composition includes imiprothrin and deltamethrin.
The one or more active agents may be included in a range between about 0.01 wt. % and about 5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 2 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 1 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.25 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.2 wt. %. Further, in particular embodiments, the one or more active agents may be included in a concentration of about 0.22 wt. %.
Cypermethrin (CAS No. 52315-07-8) is a synthetic pyrethroid that behaves as a fast-acting neurotoxin in insects. Cypermethrin has the IUPAC name [cyano-(3-phenoxyphenyl)methyl] 3-(2,2-dichloroethenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-1-carboxylate. Cypermethrin can be included in the composition in at least 0.005 wt. % or at least 0.01 wt. % and up to about 0.02 wt. %, up to about 0.03 wt. %, up to about 0.04 wt. %, up to about 0.05 wt. %, up to about 0.06 wt. %, up to about 0.07 wt. %, up to about 0.08 wt. %, up to about 0.09 wt. %, up to about 0.1 wt. %, up to about 0.1034 wt. %, up to about 0.11 wt. %, up to about 0.12 wt. %, or up to about 0.15 wt. %. In other embodiments, cypermethrin may be included in a range between about 0.01 wt. % and about 5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 2 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 1 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.2 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.15 wt. %. Further, in particular embodiments, the cypermethrin may be included in a concentration of about 0.1 wt. %.
Imiprothrin (CAS No. 72963-72-5) is a synthetic pyrethroid that behaves as a fast-acting neurotoxin in insects. Imiprothrin has the IUPAC name [2,5-Dioxo-3-(prop-2-yn-1-yl) imidazolidin-1-yl]methyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylprop-1-en-1-yl) cyclopropane-1-carboxylate. Imiprothrin can be included in the composition in at least 0.005 wt. % or at least 0.01 wt. % and up to about 0.02 wt. %, up to about 0.03 wt. %, up to about 0.04 wt. %, up to about 0.05 wt. %, up to about 0.06 wt. %, up to about 0.07 wt. %, up to about 0.08 wt. %, up to about 0.09 wt. %, up to about 0.1 wt. %, up to about 0.11 wt. %, up to about 0.1188 wt. %, up to about 0.12 wt. %, or up to about 0.15 wt. %. In other embodiments, imiprothrin may be included in a range between about 0.01 wt. % and about 5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 2 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 1 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.2 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.15 wt. %. Further, in particular embodiments, the imiprothrin may be included in a concentration of about 0.12 wt. %.
Deltamethrin (CAS No. 52918-63-5) is a synthetic pyrethroid that behaves as a fast-acting neurotoxin in insects. Deltamethrin has the IUPAC name [(S)-cyano-(3-phenoxyphenyl)methyl] (1R,3R)-3-(2,2-dibromoethenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-1-carboxylate. Deltamethrin can be included in the composition in at least 0.01 wt. % or at least 0.05 wt. % or at least 0.1 wt. % and up to about 0.15 wt. %, up to about 0.2 wt. %, up to about 0.25 wt. %, up to about 0.3 wt. %, up to about 0.35 wt. %, up to about 0.4 wt. %, up to about 0.45 wt. %, or up to about 0.5 wt. %. In other embodiments, deltamethrin may be included in a range between about 0.01 wt. % and about 5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 2 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 1 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.2 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 0.15 wt. %. Further, in particular embodiments, deltamethrin may be included in a concentration of about 0.3 wt. %.
The composition of the present disclosure may also include a solvent, for example to dissolve certain components, to enhance functionality of the components, or for textural and sensorial attributes. In some embodiments, the solvent includes at least one of citric acid esters, cyclohexanone, glycol ethers, C14-C16 saturated alkanes, C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons, and combinations thereof. In further embodiments, the solvent may additionally or alternatively include ethanol and acetone. The concentration of these non-VOC solvents is important for product performance because they dictate the rate at which the emulsion breaks. If the emulsion breaks too quickly, the composition dispenses as a continuous stream, rather than an aerosolized spray.
In certain embodiments, the composition includes a solvent. In these embodiments, the solvent may include at least one of citric acid esters, cyclohexanone, glycol ethers, C14-C16 saturated alkanes, C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons, and combinations thereof. These C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons may have no lingering chemical odors. In particular embodiments, the composition includes a hydrocarbon solvent and a non-VOC solvent. In these embodiments, the non-VOC solvent may be a citric acid ester, a glycol ether, or a combination thereof. Further, in these embodiments, the non-VOC solvents may assist with solubilizing the active agents, including cypermethrin, which has limited solubility in many solvents. Even further, the non-VOC solvent may solubilize with alkanes, C14-C16 linear hydrocarbon solvents, or other hydrocarbon solvents.
The concentration of the non-VOC solvent may also be critical to the functioning of the composition and may determine many parameters of the composition, such as how fast the emulsion breaks. For example, if the emulsion breaks too fast, the spray from the can may come out as a continuous stream and not an aerosolized spray, which is undesirable. Further, sometimes small variations in solvent amount may cause an emulsion to break too quickly and/or not form in the can when shaken. As such, one skilled in the art would understand the complexities with creating compositions with such solvents and the difficulty in creating optimal aerosol compositions having non-VOC solvents.
In some embodiments, the composition includes about 1 wt. % to about 55 wt. % of the solvent, and in some other embodiments, the composition includes about 1 wt. % to about 35 wt. % of the solvent, based on the total weight of the composition. In further embodiments, the composition includes about 25 wt. % to about 52 wt. % of the solvent based on the total weight of the composition. In further embodiments, the composition includes about 20 wt. % to about 35 wt. % of the solvent based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the composition includes a solvent present in about 28 wt. % to about 34 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition, or between about 29 wt. % to about 34 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In another embodiment, the solvent is present between about 28 wt. % to about 29 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In another embodiment, the solvent is present between about 29 wt. % to about 30 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In another embodiment, the solvent is present between about 30 wt. % to about 31 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In yet another embodiment, the solvent is present between about 32 wt. % to about 33 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In yet another embodiment, the solvent is present between about 33 wt. % to about 34 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the one or more solvents may be individually present in an amount ranging from about 0.01 wt. % and about 10 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 7 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 4.5 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 3 wt. %, or between about 0.01 wt. % and about 2.5 wt. %. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of solvent may vary to suit different applications. The concentration ranges of solvents will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, including, but not limited to, the cypermethrin, deltamethrin, imiprothrin, emulsifier, propellant, corrosion inhibitor, and carrier.
Additionally, according to one embodiment, the solvent includes at least one of citric acid esters, cyclohexanone, glycol ethers, C14-C16 saturated alkanes, C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons, and/or combinations thereof. For example, in an embodiment, the solvent includes at least one of C14-C16 saturated alkanes, glycol ethers, and/or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the solvent includes at least one of C14-C16 saturated alkanes, citric acid esters, and/or combinations thereof. In an even further embodiment, the solvent is selected from the group consisting of citric acid esters, cyclohexanone, glycol ethers, C14-C16 saturated alkanes, C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons, and/or combinations thereof.
Further, according to one embodiment, the solvent includes C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons. Here, the solvent may be an isoparaffin or isoparaffinic hydrocarbon, including synthesized mixtures of hydrocarbons. For example, some exemplary embodiments may include one or more of the following solvents: Ketrul® D100 (TotalEnergies SE, La Défense 6, France), Isopar® M (Exxon Mobil Corporation, Irving, TX), Isopar™ L (Exxon Mobil Corporation, Irving, TX), SMD 100 by Sinopec, SMD 95 by Sinopic, ShellSol TD, and combinations thereof. In these embodiments, the composition includes about 25 wt. % to about 44 wt. % of C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons, based on the total weight of the composition. In further embodiments, the composition includes about 28 wt. % to about 35 wt. % of C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons, based on the total weight of the composition, or about 28.20 wt. % to about 34.50 wt. %. In even further embodiments, the composition includes about 30.7 wt. % to about 30.8 wt. % of C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, however, the composition is substantially free of C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons may vary to suit different applications. The concentration ranges of C11-C16 aliphatic hydrocarbons, for example, will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, such as the active agents, the propellant, and the carrier.
In another embodiment, the solvent includes C14-C16 saturated alkanes. Here, the solvent may include a solvent of alkane mixtures. For example, some exemplary embodiments may include one or more of the following solvents: Ketrul® D100 (TotalEnergies SE, La Défense 6, France); gas-to-liquid (GTL) solvents, such as GS1927; Linpar® 1416 (Sasol Italy S.P.A., Milano, Italy), Ketrul® D80 (TotalEnergies SE, La Défense 6, France), SMD 80 by Sinopec, and/or Exxsol™ D80 (Exxon Mobil Corporation, Irving, TX). In these embodiments, the composition includes about 25 wt. % to about 44 wt. % of C14-C16 saturated alkanes, based on the total weight of the composition. In further embodiments, the composition includes about 28 wt. % to about 35 wt. % of C14-C16 saturated alkanes, based on the total weight of the composition. In even further embodiments, the composition includes about 28.2 wt. % to about 34.5 wt. % of C14-C16 saturated alkanes, based on the total weight of the composition. In still further embodiments, the composition includes about 32.64 wt. % of C14-C16 saturated alkanes, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, however, the composition is substantially free of C14-C16 saturated alkanes. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of C14-C16 saturated alkanes may vary to suit different applications. The concentration ranges of C14-C16 saturated alkanes, for example, will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, such as the active agents, the propellant, and the carrier.
In yet another embodiment, the solvent includes glycol ethers. For example, some exemplary embodiments may include one or more of the following solvents: Butyl CARBITOL™ Solvent (Dow Chemical Co., Midland, MI), DOWANOL® DPnP Glycol Ether (Dow Chemical Co., Midland, MI), Hexyl CARBITOL™ Solvent (Dow Chemical Co., Midland, MI), Hexyl CELLOSOLVE™ (Dow Chemical Co., Midland, MI), DOWANOL® PPh Glycol Ether (Dow Chemical Co., Midland, MI), and/or glycol ether solvents offered by LyondellBasell® (LyondellBasell Industries Holdings BV (besloten vennootschap (b.v.); NETHERLANDS)), including glycol ether DB and glycol ether DE, for example. In these embodiments, the composition includes about 0.1 wt. % to about 10 wt. % of glycol ethers, based on the total weight of the composition. In further embodiments, the composition includes about 0.15 wt. % to about 5 wt. % of glycol ethers, based on the total weight of the composition. In even further embodiments, the composition includes about 0.2 wt. % to about 2.5 wt. % of glycol ethers, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the composition includes about 0.2 wt. % to about 1.5 wt. %, or about 0.2 wt. % to about 1.3 wt. % of glycol ethers, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, however, the composition is substantially free of glycol ethers. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of glycol ethers may vary to suit different applications. The concentration ranges of glycol ethers, for example, will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, such as the active agents, the propellant, and the carrier.
Still further, in some embodiments, the solvent includes citric acid esters. For example, some exemplary embodiments may include one or more of the following solvents: a triethyl citrate (e.g., Citroflex® C-2 Aurorium Holdings LLC, Indianapolis, IN), acetyltriethyl citrate (e.g., Citroflex® A-2), tri-n-butyl citrate (e.g., Citroflex® C-4), acetyltri-n-butyl citrate (Citroflex® A-4), acetyltri-n-hexyl citrate (Citroflex® A-6), n-Butyryltri-n-hexyl citrate (Citroflex® B-6), and combinations thereof. Citroflex® solvents are biodegradable and non-toxic, and Citroflex® A-4, also called acetyl-tri-n-butyl citrate, is phthalate-free. In these embodiments, the composition includes about 0.1 wt. % to about 10 wt. % of citric acid esters, based on the total weight of the composition. In further embodiments, the composition includes about 0.15 wt. % to about 8 wt. % of citric acid esters, based on the total weight of the composition. In even further embodiments, the composition includes about 0.2 wt. % to about 2.5 wt. % of citric acid esters, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the composition includes about 0.2 wt. % to about 1.3 wt. % of citric acid esters, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, however, the composition is substantially free of citric acid esters. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of citric acid esters may vary to suit different applications. The concentration ranges of glycol ethers, for example, will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, such as the active agents, the propellant, and the carrier.
The composition of the present disclosure may also include an emulsifier, for example, to keep the active ingredient emulsified in the composition. The concentration of emulsifier is also important for product performance. A composition having too low a concentration of emulsifier exhibits inferior spray due to incomplete emulsion formation, while a composition having too high a concentration of emulsifier exhibits a thick, foamy spray which impacts insecticide performance. In some embodiments, the composition includes an emulsifier. In some embodiments, the emulsifier includes at least one of lecithin, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium oleate, potassium oleate, sodium ricinolate, Quillaja saponin, polyglyceryl oleate, glyceryl monooleate, sorbitan monooleate, and any combinations thereof.
In certain embodiments, the emulsifier is present in about 0.01 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In an embodiment, the emulsifier is present from about 0.01 wt. % to about 4 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the composition includes about 0.01 wt. % to about 3 wt. % emulsifier, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition includes about 0.01 wt. % to about 2 wt. % emulsifier, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 0.01 wt. % to about 1 wt. % emulsifier, based on the total weight of the composition. In an embodiment, the emulsifier is present from about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.5 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In an embodiment, the emulsifier is present from about 0.05 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In even further embodiments, however, the composition is substantially free of an emulsifier. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of emulsifier may vary to suit different applications and product formulations (e.g., foaming aerosol vs. fast breaking emulsion aerosol). The concentration ranges of emulsifier will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, including, but not limited to, the solvent, the carrier, corrosion inhibitor, propellant, and the active agents.
Further, according to one embodiment, the emulsifier includes sorbitan monooleate. In this embodiment, the sorbitan monooleate is present from about 0.01 wt. % to about 4 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the composition includes about 0.01 wt. % to about 3 wt. % sorbitan monooleate, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition includes about 0.01 wt. % to about 2 wt. % sorbitan monooleate, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 0.01 wt. % to about 1 wt. % sorbitan monooleate, based on the total weight of the composition. In an embodiment, the sorbitan monooleate is present from about 0.05 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In further embodiments, the sorbitan monooleate is present at about 0.115 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In even further embodiments, however, the composition is substantially free of sorbitan monooleate. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of sorbitan monooleate may vary to suit different applications. The concentration ranges of sorbitan monooleate will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, including, but not limited to, the solvent, the carrier, corrosion inhibitor, propellant, and the active agents.
The composition of the present disclosure may also include a carrier, for example, to help aid in the delivery of the active agents, diluent, and flow aid. The carrier may improve content uniformity and facilitates reproducibility of the applied dose. The carrier, among other ingredients, allows the pesticide to be dispersed effectively. The term “carrier” as used herein means a material, which can be inorganic or organic and of synthetic or natural origin, with which the active agent is mixed or formulated to facilitate its application to the host, area, or other object to be treated, or to facilitate its storage, transport, and/or handling. In general, any of the materials customarily employed in formulating repellents, pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides, are suitable.
In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 5 wt. % to about 95 wt. % of a carrier, or about 5 wt. % and about 90 wt. %, or about 5 wt. % to about 85 wt. %, or about 5 wt. % to about 80 wt. %, or between about 5 wt. % to about 75 wt. %, or between 5 wt. % to about 70 wt. %, or about 5 wt. % to about 65 wt. %. In further embodiments, the formulation includes about 50 wt. % to about 70 wt. % carrier, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 55.5 wt. % to about 62.5 wt. % carrier, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the composition includes about 55 wt. % to about 63 wt. % carrier, based on the total weight of the composition. In still further embodiments, the composition includes about 57 wt. % to about 60 wt. % carrier, based on the total weight of the composition. In still further embodiments, the composition includes about 58 wt. % carrier or about 59 wt. % carrier, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the carrier includes purified water. In other embodiments, the carrier is purified water. In further embodiments, the carrier is an oil, such as mineral oil. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the amount of carrier may vary to suit different applications. The amount ranges of carrier will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, such as the active agents, solvent, corrosion inhibitor, and emulsifier.
The composition of the present disclosure may also include a corrosion inhibitor, for example, to help prevent degradation of a metal container that is used to store and/or dispense the composition. The pest control formulation as disclosed herein can be provided to the user in a metal container. Preventing the corrosion of the container is important to avoid spilling and wasting the contents if the container is stored for an extended period of time between uses. Therefore, a corrosion inhibitor can be added to the formulation to increase shelf life. Corrosion inhibitors can include inorganic compounds as well as aliphatic or aromatic amines, and nitrogen heterocyclic compounds. In specific embodiments herein, the organic salt ammonium benzoate is used as a corrosion inhibitor. In some embodiments, ammonium benzoate is included at about 0.05 wt. % to about 2 wt. %, or about 0.05 wt. % to about 1 wt. %, or about 0.05 wt. % to about 0.5 wt. %, or about 0.05 wt. % to about 0.2 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, ammonium benzoate is included at about 0.075 wt. % to about 0.15 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In a particular embodiment, ammonium benzoate can be included at about 0.08 wt. % to about 0.11 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In a particular embodiment, ammonium benzoate can be included at about 0.090 wt. % or 0.105 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In even further embodiments, however, the composition is substantially free of a corrosion inhibitor. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of corrosion inhibitor may vary to suit different applications. The concentration ranges of corrosion inhibitor will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, including, but not limited to, the solvent, the carrier, emulsifier, propellant, and the active agents.
In certain embodiments, the composition includes a propellant, for example, to provide a force to expel the formulation from the container. In certain embodiments, the propellant is selected from the group comprising methane, ethane, propane, pentane, isobutene, n-butane, isobutane, dimethyl ether, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, air, liquified petroleum gas, and any combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the propellant is selected from the group consisting of methane, ethane, propane, pentane, isobutene, n-butane, isobutane, dimethyl ether, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, air, and any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the propellant can be pressurized in the can to about 50 psi, about 60 psi, about 70 psi, about 80 psi, about 90 psi, or about 100 psi. In other embodiments, the propellant pressure is between about 70 psi and about 100 psi, or between about 80 psi and about 96 psi. In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 1 wt. % to about 10 wt. % of the propellant, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 5 wt. % to about 8 wt. % of the propellant, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 6.5 wt. % to about 8 wt. % of the propellant, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 7 wt. % to about 8 wt. % of the propellant, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition includes about 7.5 wt. % of the propellant, based on the total weight of the composition. In specific embodiments, the composition includes a propellant at a weight percentage below 10 wt. %, below 9 wt. %, or below 8 wt. %.
Further, in some embodiments, the propellant is at least partially a part of the composition and dissolves in the active or organic phase of the formulation. As a result, the propellant helps with the formation of the emulsion system. While specific values chosen for this embodiment are recited, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the disclosure, the concentration of propellant may vary to suit different applications. The concentration ranges of propellant will vary based on the additional components of the pest control composition, including, but not limited to, the solvent, the carrier, surfactant, corrosion inhibitor, and the active agents.
In certain embodiments, the propellant includes at least one of isobutane, propane, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the propellant includes a combination of isobutane and propane with an isobutane to propane weight ratio of about 20:80 to about 45:55. In a further embodiment, the propellant includes a combination of isobutane and propane with an isobutane to propane weight ratio of about 30:70. In a further embodiment, the propellant is an A-90 propellant, including a combination of isobutane and propane with an isobutane to propane weight ratio of about 30.16:69.84. In a further embodiment, the propellant is an A-70 propellant, including a combination of isobutane and propane with an isobutane to propane weight ratio of about 57.11:42.89. If the weight ratio of isobutane to propane exceeds 21.27:78.73, it was found that the propellant pressure produces a fine mist, with particle sizes which are ill-suited to targeting crawling insects. When particle sizes are too small, they form fine droplets which allow the active agents or carrier agents to quickly evaporate, which then hinders the delivery of actives through the insect's cuticles. By balancing the isobutane to propane ratio, a stable emulsion which produces the proper energy when leaving the actuator was produced. In particular, a correct balance of the isobutane to propane ratio helped to solubilize with the composition and create an emulsion, while still having enough propane to give the energy needed for flash vaporization in the nozzle. This contrasts with other mainstream aerosols that have much higher propellant pressure, producing fine particles and a wide spray diameter. Once in the air, the propellent in the formula helps break up the formulation into the correct diameter of particles, allowing the composition to hit and coat the target insect. This demonstrates the importance of having the correct propellant ratio in the formula. By optimizing the propellant composition, a formulation which allows for flexibility and interchangeability between actuators and valves was produced.
In certain embodiments, the composition includes a fragrance, for example, to improve the scent of the composition. A fragrance suitable for use as an active agent may be any suitable natural or synthetic fragrance, based on a single component or blend of components. Fragrances are available commercially from fragrance manufacturers such as Takasago, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc., Quest, Firmenich, Givaudan, Symrise and the like.
In certain embodiments, the fragrance is present in about 0.01 wt. % to about 1 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In an embodiment, the fragrance is present from about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.5 wt. %, based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the composition includes about 0.1 wt. % to about 0.3 wt. % fragrance, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition includes about 0.2 wt. % to about 0.25 wt. % fragrance, based on the total weight of the composition. In even further embodiments, however, the composition is substantially free of a fragrance.
Further, the propellant and the concentration thereof may assist with creating optimal spray characteristics for the composition. In particular, in some embodiments, the composition may have a discharge rate between about 1 g/s and about 6.0 g/s, or between about 1.5 g/s and about 4.0 g/s, or between about 2.0 g/s and about 3.5 g/s, or between about 2.2 g/s and about 3.4 g/s, or between about 2.5 g/s and about 3.5 g/s, or between about 2.6 g/s and about 3.2 g/s. In particular embodiments, the composition may have a discharge rate of about 2.9 g/s.
The composition may also have an optimal particle size, such as an optimal Dv(50) value. In some embodiments, the composition may have a Dv(50) value between about 100 μm and about 300 μm, or between about 100 μm and about 250 μm, or between about 130 μm and about 210 μm, or between about 150 μm and about 200 μm, or between about 165 μm and about 195 μm. In particular embodiments, the composition includes a Dv(50) particle size of about 180 μm.
The composition may also have an optimal pattern diameter. In these embodiments, the pattern diameter may be between about 1 inch and about 8 inches, or between about 3 inches and about 5 inches, or between about 3.5 inches and about 4 inches.
The composition may also have an optimal spray distance. In these embodiments, the spray distance may be between about 6 inches and about 30 inches, or between about 15 inches and about 20 inches. In particular embodiments, the spray distance may be about 18 inches.
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Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a nozzle insert for a product dispensing system. In some embodiments, the improved nozzle insert can provide improved manufacturability and reduce defects arising during assembly (or use) from over-compression of a nozzle insert. For example, some embodiments of the invention provide a nozzle insert, and a corresponding nozzle-insert cavity in an actuator of an actuator assembly that can mitigate the effects of over-compression of the nozzle insert. This can, for example, correspondingly reduce (e.g., eliminate) the probability of forming defects in the actuator assembly during assembly. In some cases, nozzle assemblies for containers (e.g., as included on a larger actuator assembly) can provide a desired flow characteristic (e.g., spray pattern, flow rate, metering effect, and so on).
In alternative embodiments, the composition may include an insecticide disposed within a carrier liquid, a deodorizing liquid, or the like. The composition may also comprise other actives, such as sanitizers, mold or mildew inhibitors, insect repellents, and/or the like. In alternative embodiments, it is contemplated that the container 42 may contain any type of pressurized product and/or mixtures thereof; thus, the product dispensing system 40 may be adapted to dispense any number of different products. In some embodiments, the container 42 may contain liquefied, non-liquefied, or dissolved compressed gas, which may include one or more of the compressed gases listed above. In some embodiments, the container 42 may contain one or more of a hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon derivative, including acetylene, methane, propane, butane, isobutene, halogenated hydrocarbons, ethers, mixtures of butane and propane, otherwise known as liquid petroleum gas or LPG, and/or mixtures thereof.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while the invention has been described above in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached hereto.
While the methods and systems disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms, several specific embodiments are discussed herein with the understanding that the embodiments described in the present disclosure are to be considered only exemplifications of the principles described herein, and the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments illustrated.
Any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in connection with different embodiments. Further, the present disclosure is not limited to aerosol containers of the type specifically shown. Still further, the overcaps of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified to work with any type of aerosol or non-aerosol container.
Numerous modifications to the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the disclosure. The exclusive rights to all modifications which come within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/395,221, filed on Dec. 22, 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 18395221 | Dec 2023 | US |
| Child | 18665259 | US |
