Texture material dispensing system including a foldable handle and trigger

Described herein is a texture material dispensing system that includes a foldable handle and trigger. The texture material dispensing system may be used for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface, such as a ceiling.

FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is directed to a texture material dispensing system that includes a foldable handle and trigger. The texture material dispensing system may be used for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface, such as a ceiling.

BACKGROUND

Liquid spray dispensers can be utilized in a variety of applications. For instance, spray dispensers may utilize aerosol to dispense coatings such as texture material, paint, or household cleaners. Handheld liquid spray dispensers generally utilize aerosol as a propellant to propel liquid through a nozzle, in response to actuation of a valve that results in pressurized liquid being propelled out of an attached spray can. For instance, a trigger or other mechanism may be used to actuate the valve, with liquid in the can being propelled through a nozzle and out of an orifice of the spray dispenser onto a surface.

While useful for a variety of applications, known spray dispensers may suffer from a lack of an ergonomic use for a variety of orientations, such as spraying onto a ceiling. Such known spray dispensers are unsuitable for long term use.

In addition, known spray dispensers may be designed for spraying onto a wall only and not for effective spraying onto a target surface directly above a user. In particular, known spray dispensers may be unsuitable for spraying different surfaces, such as a ceiling, without compromising the orientation of a texture material container connected to the dispenser. Such known spray dispensers are incapable of such spraying and attempts at such spraying may result in harm to the fluidics of the known spray dispensers, particularly for large differences in the orientation of a texture material container. In some examples, when known sprayers are used to spray a target surface, such as a ceiling directly above a user, the texture material container connected to the sprayer is not effectively actuated by the sprayer's trigger because of the angle the sprayer must be held at to access the target surface directly above. This leads to failure in actuating the valve of the texture material container properly which compromises the sprayer's effectiveness spraying onto ceilings or any target surface directly above the user.

These and other matters have presented challenges to the manufacture and implementation of liquid spray dispensers for a variety of applications. Further, these challenges are particularly relevant to texture material dispensers, which contain and dispense viscous and hardenable compositions. For at least these reasons, there is a need in the industry for a texture material dispensing system with a foldable handle and trigger for spraying target surfaces directly above the texture material dispensing system.

Described herein is a texture material dispensing system with a readily foldable handle and trigger. The texture material dispensing system includes a foldable handle and trigger that fold down to create an applicator for spraying a desired amount of texture material on ceilings ergonomically.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, provided herein is a texture material dispensing system including a container assembly, an actuator assembly, and an outlet assembly. The container assembly includes a container and a valve assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator housing, a trigger, and a handle. The actuator housing includes an actuator that is slidably supported relative to the actuator housing by at least one rail portion. The trigger is pivotably attached to the actuator. The handle is pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing. The outlet assembly includes an outlet opening. Depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator. Pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator causes linear movement of the actuator relative to the actuator housing. The linear movement of the actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, provided herein is a method of using a texture material dispensing system including a container assembly, an actuator assembly, and an outlet assembly. The container assembly includes a container and a valve assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator housing, a trigger, and a handle. The actuator housing includes an actuator that is slidably supported relative to the actuator housing by at least one rail portion. The trigger is pivotably attached to the actuator. The handle is pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing. The outlet assembly includes an outlet opening. Depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator. Pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator causes linear movement of the actuator relative to the actuator housing. The linear movement of the actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The method includes using the texture material dispensing system for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure, provided herein is a texture material dispensing system including a container assembly, an actuator assembly, and an outlet assembly. The container assembly includes a container and a valve assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator housing, a trigger, and a handle. The actuator housing includes a pivoting actuator. The trigger is pivotably attached to the pivoting actuator. The handle is pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing. The outlet assembly includes an outlet opening. Depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator. Pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the pivoting actuator causes pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator relative to the actuator housing. The pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, provided herein is a method of using a texture material dispensing system including a container assembly, an actuator assembly, and an outlet assembly. The container assembly includes a container and a valve assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator housing, a trigger, and a handle. The actuator housing includes a pivoting actuator. The trigger is pivotably attached to the pivoting actuator. The handle is pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing. The outlet assembly includes an outlet opening. Depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator. Pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the pivoting actuator causes pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator relative to the actuator housing. The pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The method includes using the texture material dispensing system for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein is a texture material dispensing system. The texture material dispensing system may be used for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface. The texture material dispensing system includes an improved actuator, for example on a can of aerosol spray texture, in which the handle and trigger fold down to create an ergonomic applicator for spraying onto ceiling surfaces.

Particularly described herein is a texture material dispensing system including a container assembly, an actuator assembly, and an outlet assembly. The container assembly includes a container and a valve assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator housing, a trigger, and a handle. The actuator housing includes an actuator that is slidably supported relative to the actuator housing by at least one rail portion. The trigger is pivotably attached to the actuator. The handle is pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing. The outlet assembly includes an outlet opening. Depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator. Pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator causes linear movement of the actuator relative to the actuator housing. The linear movement of the actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

Also particularly described herein is a texture material dispensing system including a container assembly, an actuator assembly, and an outlet assembly. The container assembly includes a container and a valve assembly. The actuator assembly includes an actuator housing, a trigger, and a handle. The actuator housing includes a pivoting actuator. The trigger is pivotably attached to the pivoting actuator. The handle is pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing. The outlet assembly includes an outlet opening. Depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator. Pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the pivoting actuator causes pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator relative to the actuator housing. The pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

Also particularly described herein is a method of using the texture material dispensing system in accordance with the present disclosure. The method includes dispensing a texture onto a target surface. The target surface is preferably a ceiling.

In many embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured for dispensing an aerosol including a texture material. In some embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface.

In many embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured to dispense a texture material when a user holds the handle and depresses the trigger member. In some embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured to dispense a texture material when a user simultaneously holds the handle and depresses the trigger member with a single hand. In some embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured to dispense a texture material when a user holds the handle and depresses the trigger member with different hands.

In general, a foldable trigger controls actuation of the dispenser. In some embodiments, depression of the foldable trigger causes the foldable trigger to engage the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a non-use configuration to a use configuration. When the dispenser is in a use configuration, texture material is able to flow through the dispenser. In some embodiments, the foldable trigger comprises a spring to assist the foldable trigger in returning to a non-use position after depression of the foldable trigger. In some embodiments, the foldable trigger does not comprise a spring.

The foldable trigger and handle pivoting allow a user to use the dispenser for a variety of purposes while ergonomically spraying onto a surface, such as a ceiling, as required by an application. For example, this allows a user to easily spray a texture material onto a surface directly above a user.

The foldable handle provides a number of benefits. Non-limiting examples of these benefits include providing a familiar gripping surface and an orthogonal grip when oriented in a use position and providing benefits to shipping and storage logistics when oriented in a non-use position.

In some embodiments, the trigger is foldable between a non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to the container assembly axis and a use position that is aligned substantially non-parallel to the container assembly axis. In some embodiments, the handle is foldable between a non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis and a use position that is aligned substantially non-parallel to a container assembly axis.

As used herein, the non-use position may comprise a stowed position. When the foldable handle is in a stowed position, the foldable trigger rests in a position that is aligned substantially parallel to the container assembly axis, such as a vertical position. This position provides for protection from inadvertent actuation without the need of a dedicated trigger lock mechanism. It also provides for a compact envelope for shipping, sales displays, and storage by an end user. The handle may also serve as a protector (e.g. cover) to prevent accidental actuation of the trigger. In some embodiments, the handle prevents accidental actuation of the trigger when it is folded in the non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis.

In some embodiments, the non-use position comprises a trigger lock-out mechanism in the stowed position. As used herein, a trigger lock-out mechanism is a feature on the trigger that rests on top of, or nests into, the housing or trigger in order to prevent the trigger from actuating the valve. In some embodiments, the trigger lock-out mechanism comprises a detent feature. In these embodiments, the detent figure aids in assembly of the actuator. In these embodiments, the actuator has an interference fit to the housing before first use in order to have the actuator sit proud of the valve for assembly. After first use, the actuator pushes from the detent, thereby allowing it to actuate the valve.

In some embodiments, the foldable trigger and handle are pivotable along one axis. In some embodiments, the foldable trigger and handle are pivotable along two axes. In some embodiments, the foldable trigger and handle are pivotable along three axes.

In many embodiments, the foldable trigger and handle are fully pivotable along at least one axis. In this regard, fully pivotable is understood to mean that the foldable trigger and handle can be pivoted between positions having opposite angles that are each parallel to the container assembly axis.

In some embodiments, the foldable trigger and handle are partially pivotable along at least one axis. In this regard, partially pivotable is understood to mean that the pivoting of the foldable trigger and handle are restricted such that full pivotability is not present. In some embodiments, the foldable trigger and handle are pivotable along at least one axis between an angle of 0° and 90° relative to the container assembly axis.

In many embodiments, the foldable trigger and handle are pivotable between a position that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis and a position that is aligned substantially non-parallel to a container assembly axis. In some embodiments, the foldable trigger and handle are pivotable along one axis between an angle of 0° and 90° relative to the container assembly axis.

In many embodiments, when the foldable handle is in its use position, a foldable trigger folds down. This allows the user to grip the foldable handle and activate the foldable trigger for application onto ceiling surfaces. In many embodiments, the foldable trigger is attached to an actuator through any suitable attachment means known in the art. In some embodiments, the foldable trigger is attached to an actuator with an attachment means selected from the group consisting of a snap feature, a slot, a living hinge, and combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the foldable trigger is attached to an actuator through means of a snap feature. In these embodiments, the trigger can rotate about the actuator through a snap interface. The actuator is linearly guided in the housing and attaches to the valve. When the foldable trigger is pressed by the user at one end, it rotates about the actuator, and reacts against an actuator housing at the other end. When the foldable trigger is pressed, the slidable attachment to the actuator housing allows the actuator to move linearly along its guide ribs in the actuator housing. This provides for linear actuation of the valve via the rotating foldable trigger without having both the foldable trigger and actuator grounded to the actuator housing.

In many embodiments, when the foldable handle is in its non-use and/or stowed position, the foldable trigger rests in a vertical position. In operation, when the foldable trigger is rotated down and pressed, the valve on a container assembly is depressed, allowing material to flow into the actuator then out of the outlet assembly.

In some embodiments, the handle is hollow. In some embodiments, the handle is at least partially hollow. In some embodiments, the handle is solid.

In some embodiments, the handle is pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing. In some embodiments, the handle is pivotably attached to an exterior portion of the actuator housing. In some embodiments, the handle is pivotably attached to an interior portion of the actuator housing.

In some embodiments, the handle includes a spring portion along a left exterior edge and a spring portion along a right exterior edge. In some embodiments, an exterior portion of the actuator housing includes at least one push button, wherein the handle pivots about the at least one push button. In some embodiments, an exterior portion of the actuator housing includes a hinge portion including a left hinge portion, a central hinge portion, and/or a right hinge portion. In these embodiments, the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually comprise at least two slots that are each individually configured to engage with the spring portion along a left exterior edge of the handle and the spring portion along a right exterior edge of the handle. In some embodiments, the handle snaps into the central hinge portion of the exterior portion of the actuator housing.

In some embodiments, the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually comprise a button, wherein depression of both buttons allows the handle to rotate. In some embodiments, the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually include a non-use slot that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis and a use slot that is aligned substantially non-parallel to a container assembly axis.

In some embodiments, depression of the trigger causes a portion of the trigger within the actuator housing to press against an interior surface of the actuator housing, wherein force resulting from the portion of the trigger within the actuator housing pressing against the interior surface of the actuator housing causes the linear movement of the actuator relative to the actuator housing.

The mechanism for actuation described herein is advantageous. This mechanism uses contact between the trigger and the housing to create a force balance that renders the force on the valve from the actuator substantially parallel to the can axis. This force balance improves actuation and decreases deterioration of the actuator over time associated with unbalanced forces.

In many embodiments, the actuator assembly is embodied by an actuator housing. The actuator housing provides a snap feature which allows the foldable handle to attach to it by means of a snap. After assembly to the housing, the foldable trigger and handle can rotate about the housing between two discrete positions. The two discrete positions are the non-use position and the use position. Two spring actuation features on the handle, one on each side, keep the handle in its discrete positions. The spring actuation features act as push buttons on the handle. When left alone, the spring actuation features push against mating geometry in the housing, keeping the foldable handle in place. Pushing the spring actuation features allows the mating geometry on the foldable handle to come out of contact with the mating geometry on the housing. Once the mating geometries are out of contact, the user can rotate the foldable handle from its non-use and/or stowed position to its use position, and vice versa.

In many embodiments, the actuator assembly may be connected to the container assembly through attachment mechanisms known in the art. Example attachment mechanisms include physical couplings, adhesives, overmolding, snap connections, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the actuator assembly snaps onto the container assembly. In some embodiments, the actuator assembly snaps onto the container assembly via a plurality of snap features. In some embodiments, the actuator assembly snaps onto the container assembly via a plurality of snap features and locating posts.

In some embodiments, the actuator is directly fluidically connected to the outlet opening. In some embodiments, the actuator assembly comprises a tube that fluidically connects the actuator and the outlet opening. Any suitable tube known in the art may be used. In some embodiments, the tube is composed of a plastic material. The tube can be made of known inflexible or flexible materials. Tubing made of flexible materials permits adjustment of the angle of the outlet with respect to the valve angle. In some embodiments, the tube is made of a material selected from the group consisting of fluoropolymers, polyolefins, silicones, rubbers, ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) rubber, perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), vinyl polymers, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and combinations thereof. The tube maintains fluidic connection between the actuator and the outlet opening.

In many embodiments, the container assembly comprises a container. In some embodiments, the container stores a texture material and a propellant material. The texture material and propellant material may be present separately or in a mixture. In some embodiments, the container stores a composition comprising a texture material and a propellant material.

In some embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured to deliver suitable texture materials while the container is in a position that is between an upright position and a decline angle of 60° relative to the upright position. In some embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured to deliver suitable texture materials while the container is in a position that is between an upright position and a decline angle of 30° relative to the upright position.

In many embodiments, the dispenser may be in the form of any suitable dispenser known in the art. In some embodiments, the dispenser is in a form selected from the group consisting of cans, canisters, bottles, containers, applicators, mechanical applicators, electric applicators, and pneumatic applicators. In some embodiments, the dispenser is a canister.

Generally, the texture material dispensing system is configured to deliver suitable texture materials known in the art. In many embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured for dispensing an aerosol comprising a texture material. In some embodiments, the aerosol comprises a texture material and a propellant.

Generally, any suitable texture material known in the art may be used in the texture dispensing system. Suitable texture materials known in the art are capable of delivering a variety of textures. In some embodiments, the texture material comprises a texture selected from the group consisting of a knockdown texture, an orange peel texture, a popcorn texture, and combinations thereof. In some particular embodiments, the texture material comprises a popcorn texture.

Generally, any suitable propellant known in the art may be used in the texture dispensing system. Suitable propellants known in the art are capable of delivering a variety of materials, including texture materials. In some embodiments, the propellant comprises a propellant selected from the group consisting of hydrocarbon propellants, A-85 propellant, ether propellants, dimethyl ether (DME) propellant, chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) propellants, hydroolefin (HFO) propellants, hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) propellants, and combinations thereof.

Generally, the texture material dispensing system is configured to deliver suitable texture materials to surfaces known in the art. In many embodiments, the texture material dispensing system is configured for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface. In some embodiments, the target surface is selected from the group consisting of a horizontal surface, a vertical surface, an angled surface, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the target surface is selected from the group consisting of a ceiling, a floor, a wall, an interior wall, an exterior wall, a construction surface, and combinations thereof.

In some particular embodiments, the target surface is a horizontal surface. In some embodiments, the target surface is a ceiling. In some embodiments, the surface is smooth. In some embodiments, the surface is rough. In some embodiments, the surface is pre-textured. In some embodiments, the surface has a texture consisting of a popcorn texture.

Aspects of the present disclosure are applicable to a variety of different types of assemblies, systems and methods involving dispensing of texture materials via aerosols from pressurized containers. Various embodiments are directed to a texture material dispensing system having a foldable trigger and handle which move to allow spraying of a spray texture material onto horizontal surfaces while maintaining the can in an upright or substantially upright position to create an ergonomic applicator. Such a system is readily adaptable to a variety of applications, uses, and environments.

Turning now to the figures,FIG.1AandFIG.1Bshow full views of an exemplary embodiment of a texture material dispensing system100.FIG.2A,FIG.2B,FIG.2C, andFIG.2Dshow partial views of the texture material dispensing system100shown inFIG.1AandFIG.1B.FIG.3A,FIG.3B, andFIG.3Cshow cross-sectional views of the texture material dispensing system100shown inFIG.1AandFIG.1B.FIG.4A,FIG.4B,FIG.4C, andFIG.4Dshow cross-sectional views of a second texture material dispensing system200.FIG.5A,FIG.5B,FIG.5C, andFIG.5Dshow cross-sectional views of a second texture material dispensing system300.FIG.6A,FIG.6B,FIG.6C, andFIG.6Dshow cross-sectional views of a third texture material dispensing system400.FIG.7A,FIG.7B,FIG.7C, andFIG.7Dshow various views of a fourth texture material dispensing system500.

Referring now toFIG.1AandFIG.1B, a texture material dispensing system100is shown. The texture material dispensing system100includes a container assembly102, an actuator assembly104, and an outlet assembly106. The container assembly102includes a container108and a valve assembly (not shown) that store a texture material and a propellant material. The actuator assembly104includes an actuator housing110that houses an actuator122, a foldable trigger112pivotably attached to the actuator122, and a foldable handle114pivotably attached to an exterior portion of the actuator housing110. The foldable handle shown here is hollow with a supporting beam dividing the foldable handle into equal internal halves. The outlet assembly106includes an outlet opening116that dispenses an aerosol including a texture material through an outlet tube118and onto a target surface, such as a ceiling, when the foldable trigger112is depressed. The texture may be a popcorn texture once dispensed onto the target surface. The tube118fluidically connects the actuator122and the outlet opening116. When the foldable trigger is depressed, a pivoting movement of the foldable trigger112occurs relative to the actuator122.

FIG.1Ashows the configuration of the texture dispensing system100in a use position. In the use position, a user holds the handle114and depresses the trigger112to cause texture material to be dispensed through the outlet assembly106onto the target surface. In the use position the foldable handle114and foldable trigger112are aligned substantially non-parallel, or orthogonal, to a container assembly axis124.

FIG.1Bshows the configuration of the texture material dispensing system100in a non-use position. In the non-use position the foldable handle114and foldable trigger112are aligned substantially parallel to the container assembly axis124. In the non-use position, the texture dispensing system100cannot be used by a user. To move the foldable handle114between the use and non-use position, a pair of buttons120are provided that the user squeezes in order to move the foldable handle114between the use position and the non-use position. The buttons120are connected to the foldable handle114after assembly of the foldable handle114to the actuator housing110. The buttons may be connected to the foldable handle by a variety of means known in the art, including snapping into the foldable handle, glue, screws, ultrasonic welding, and combinations thereof.

Referring now toFIG.2A,FIG.2B,FIG.2C, andFIG.2D, the exterior aspects of the actuator assembly104and the outlet assembly106of the texture material dispensing system100fromFIG.1AandFIG.1Bare shown in greater detail. The foldable handle114of the actuator assembly104has a first spring214along a left exterior edge of the foldable handle114and a second spring216along the right exterior edge of the foldable handle114. The exterior portion of the actuator housing110includes a left hinge portion218and a right hinge portion222. The left hinge portion218includes a left hinge first slot224and a left hinge second slot226. The right hinge portion218includes a right hinge first slot228and a right hinge second slot230. The first spring214and the second spring216of the foldable handle114mate with the slots on the housing110to act as detents for the foldable handle114positions of use and non-use. In other words, all the slots224,226,228,230are each individually configured to engage with the springs214,216along the left and right exterior edges of foldable handle114.FIG.2BandFIG.2Cshow the use position for the texture material dispensing system100where the first spring214and the second spring216of the foldable handle114mate with the left hinge first slot224and the right hinge first slot228of the actuator housing110, respectively. In other words, the left hinge first slot224and the right hinge first slot228may be use slots that are aligned substantially non-parallel or orthogonal to the container assembly axis124shown inFIG.1AandFIG.1B. Similarly, the left hinge second slot226and the right hinge second slot230may be non-use slots that are aligned substantially parallel to the container assembly axis124shown inFIG.1AandFIG.1B.FIG.2Dshows the non-use position for the texture material dispensing system100. All the springs214,216are pre-loaded into the actuator housing110to provide for a rigid connection. In some embodiments, the non-use position is the stowed position for shipping the texture material dispensing system100. In the use position, the rigid connection of the springs214,216loaded into the actuator housing110provides a rigid connection for an ergonomic position for dispensing texture onto a target surface, such as a ceiling. The left hinge portion218and the right hinge portion222both include the buttons120, wherein depression of both buttons120simultaneously allows the foldable handle114to rotate from a use position shown inFIG.2A,FIG.2B, andFIG.2Cto a non-use position shown inFIG.2D. RegardingFIG.2CandFIG.2D, the actuator assembly104is shown here without the buttons120.FIG.2Ashows the foldable trigger112whileFIG.2B,FIG.2C, andFIG.2Ddo not show the foldable trigger112.

Referring now toFIG.3A,FIG.3B, andFIG.3C, the interior aspects of the actuator assembly104and the outlet assembly106of the texture material dispensing system100fromFIG.1AandFIG.1Bare shown in greater detail. The actuator122is slidably supported relative to the actuator housing110. This is accomplished via mating ribs322sliding linearly along rail portions324in the interior portion of the actuator housing110. The rail portions324include hard-stops that interface with the mating ribs322to prevent the actuator from moving out of the housing.

The container assembly102includes the container108of texture material and a container valve308. When the texture dispensing system100is in use, texture material flows from the container108, through the container valve308, into the actuator122, through the outlet tube118, and finally out of the outlet opening116of the outlet assembly106onto the target surface, such as a ceiling. In other embodiments, the actuator122is directly fluidically connected to the outlet opening116that avoids utilizing the outlet tube118. The actuator housing110snaps directly to the container108of the container assembly102. The actuator122and the outlet tube118in this embodiment are one piece and the actuator122extends to replace the tubing that was removed. As shown inFIG.3C, the foldable trigger112snaps to the actuator122. The foldable trigger112is pivotably attached to the actuator122and folds into use and non-use positions. When the foldable trigger112is pressed or depressed at a first trigger location312the foldable trigger112can slide at a second trigger location314which forces the actuator122down along the mating ribs322. This depresses the container valve308, thus allowing for texture material to flow through the texture dispensing system100to the outlet opening116onto a target surface, such as a ceiling. In other words, pivoting movement of the foldable trigger112relative to the actuator122causes linear movement of the actuator122relative to the actuator housing110. The linear movement of the actuator122engages the container valve308to alter the container valve308from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In other words, depression of the foldable trigger112causes a portion of the foldable trigger112in the actuator housing110to press against an interior surface of the actuator housing110. Force resulting from the portion of the foldable trigger112within the actuator housing110pressing against the interior surface of the actuator housing110causes the linear movement of the actuator122relative to the actuator housing110.

Referring now toFIG.4A,FIG.4B,FIG.4C, andFIG.4D, an embodiment of a texture material dispensing system200is shown. The texture material dispensing system200includes a stop402attached to the outlet tube118. Pivoting movement of the foldable trigger112relative to the actuator122causes linear movement of the actuator122relative to the actuator housing110and the linear movement of the actuator122engages the container valve308to alter the container valve308from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In this embodiment, the force resulting from the portion of the foldable trigger112pressing against the stop402causes the linear movement of the actuator122relative to the actuator housing110. This is unlike the system100where the foldable trigger112presses against the interior surface of the actuator housing110. In other words, the foldable trigger112does not interact with the housing110and interacts solely with the actuator122via the stop402attached to the outlet tube118in the actuator assembly104.

Referring now toFIG.5A,FIG.5B,FIG.5C, andFIG.5D, an embodiment of a texture material dispensing system300is shown. The texture material dispensing system300includes the stop402attached to the outlet tube118part of the actuator assembly104so the foldable trigger does not interact with the housing110. Additionally, the texture material dispensing system300further includes a pivoting portion522of the actuator122that pivots or moves annularly when depression of the foldable trigger112causes a portion of the foldable trigger112in the actuator housing110to press against the stop402. Instead of a linear movement, a pivoting or annular movement occurs, thereby causing the pivoting portion522to pivot or move annularly in relation to the container108. The pivoting movement of the pivoting portion522engages the container valve308to alter the container valve308from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In this embodiment, the actuator assembly104functions as a pivoting actuator. In this embodiment, the foldable trigger112does not interact with the housing110and interacts solely via the stop402attached to the outlet tube118in the actuator assembly104.

Referring now toFIG.6A,FIG.6B,FIG.6C, andFIG.6D, an embodiment of a texture material dispensing system400is shown. In this embodiment, depression of the foldable trigger112causes a portion of the foldable trigger112in the actuator housing110to press against an interior surface of the actuator housing110. Force resulting from the portion of the foldable trigger112within the actuator housing110pressing against the interior surface of the actuator housing110causes pivoting or annular movement of a pivoting portion522relative to the actuator housing110. The pivoting movement of the pivoting portion522engages the container valve308to alter the container valve308from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In this embodiment, the actuator assembly104functions as a pivoting actuator.

Referring now toFIG.7A,FIG.7B,FIG.7C, andFIG.7D, an embodiment of a texture material dispensing system500is shown. In this embodiment, the texture material dispensing system500has a foldable handle506and foldable trigger504. This embodiment relates to the configuration of the foldable handle506and the foldable trigger504and does not limit the actuation mechanism. The foldable handle506has an ergonomic grip508and a mechanism510(e.g. a push button) that is depressed to release the foldable handle506from the actuator housing502. The actuator housing502is connected to the container108.FIG.7Ashows that the foldable handle506and the foldable trigger504fold out of the actuator housing502.FIG.7Bshows the texture material dispensing system500in between a use position and a non-use position. When folded in a non-use position, the foldable trigger504fits into a slot512in the foldable handle506, and the foldable handle506folds against, and connects with, the actuator housing502.FIG.7Cshows a cross-sectional view of the texture material dispensing system500in a non-use position. The foldable trigger504is contained within the foldable handle506that is folded against the actuator housing502. A partial view of the non-use position is shown inFIG.7D. Depression of the mechanism510allows the foldable handle506to pivot on a hinge514.

In this embodiment, the foldable handle506connects (e.g. snaps) directly onto the actuator housing502via posts on the foldable handle506(not shown). The handle posts mate with holes in the housing514which allow the handle to rotate about the actuator housing502. The handle has mechanism510molded into it. The mechanism510acts a spring. When the mechanism510is depressed, it allows the foldable handle506to move freely between non-use and use positions. The actuator housing502has grooves cut in it (not shown). When the foldable handle506is pulled into the use position, the mechanism510engages with the groove and locks into place for use. The same groove may be present for locking the foldable handle506in the non-use position. When the foldable handle506is folded down from the non-use position into the use position, a rib (not shown) on the foldable handle506engages the foldable trigger504and pulls the foldable trigger504down into its use position. When the foldable handle506is folded up from the use position into the non-use position, a second rib (not shown) on the foldable handle506engages the foldable trigger504and pushes it back into its non-use position. In this way, a user only has to engage the foldable handle506and never has to fold the foldable trigger504up or down.

The embodiments of this disclosure include:

Embodiment 1. A texture material dispensing system comprising:

a container assembly comprising a container and a valve assembly;

an actuator assembly comprising:an actuator housing comprising an actuator that is slidably supported relative to the actuator housing by at least one rail portion;a trigger pivotably attached to the actuator; anda handle pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing; and

an outlet assembly comprising an outlet opening;

wherein depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator;

wherein the pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator causes linear movement of the actuator relative to the actuator housing; and

wherein the linear movement of the actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

Embodiment 2. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the texture material dispensing system is configured for dispensing an aerosol comprising a texture material.

Embodiment 3. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the texture material dispensing system is configured for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface.

Embodiment 4. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the texture material dispensing system is configured to dispense a texture material when a user holds the handle and depresses the trigger member.

Embodiment 5. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the texture material dispensing system is configured to dispense a texture material when a user simultaneously holds the handle and depresses the trigger member with a single hand.

Embodiment 6. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the trigger is foldable between a non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to the container assembly axis and a use position that is aligned substantially non-parallel to the container assembly axis.

Embodiment 7. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the handle is foldable between a non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis and a use position that is aligned substantially non-parallel to a container assembly axis.

Embodiment 8. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 7, wherein the handle prevents accidental actuation of the trigger when it is folded in the non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis.

Embodiment 9. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the handle is hollow.

Embodiment 10. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the handle comprises a spring portion along a left exterior edge and a spring portion along a right exterior edge.

Embodiment 11. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 10, wherein the portion of the actuator housing is an exterior portion of the actuator housing.

Embodiment 12. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 11, wherein the exterior portion of the actuator housing comprises a hinge portion comprising a left hinge portion and a right hinge portion; wherein the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually comprise at least two slots that are each individually configured to engage with the spring portion along a left exterior edge of the handle and the spring portion along a right exterior edge of the handle.

Embodiment 13. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 12, wherein the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually comprise a button, wherein depression of both buttons allows the handle to rotate.

Embodiment 14. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 12, wherein the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually comprise a non-use slot that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis and a use slot that is aligned substantially non-parallel to a container assembly axis.

Embodiment 15. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the depression of the trigger causes a portion of the trigger within the actuator housing to press against an interior surface of the actuator housing, wherein force resulting from the portion of the trigger within the actuator housing pressing against the interior surface of the actuator housing causes the linear movement of the actuator relative to the actuator housing.

Embodiment 16. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the actuator assembly comprises a tube that fluidically connects the actuator and the outlet opening.

Embodiment 17. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the actuator is directly fluidically connected to the outlet opening.

Embodiment 18. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 1, wherein the container stores a texture material and a propellant material.

Embodiment 19. A method of using a texture material dispensing system comprising:

a container assembly comprising a container and a valve assembly;

an actuator assembly comprising:an actuator housing comprising an actuator that is slidably supported relative to the actuator housing by at least one rail portion;a trigger pivotably attached to the actuator; anda handle pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing; and

an outlet assembly comprising an outlet opening;

wherein depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator;

wherein the pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the actuator causes linear movement of the actuator relative to the actuator housing; and

wherein the linear movement of the actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration, the method comprising using the texture material dispensing system for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface.

Embodiment 20. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the target surface is a ceiling.

Embodiment 21. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the method dispenses a popcorn texture onto the target surface.

Embodiment 22. A texture material dispensing system comprising:

a container assembly comprising a container and a valve assembly;

an actuator assembly comprising:an actuator housing comprising a pivoting actuator;a trigger pivotably attached to the pivoting actuator; anda handle pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing; and

an outlet assembly comprising an outlet opening;

wherein depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the pivoting actuator;

wherein the pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the pivoting actuator causes pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator relative to the actuator housing; and

wherein the pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

Embodiment 23. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the texture material dispensing system is configured for dispensing an aerosol comprising a texture material.

Embodiment 24. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the texture material dispensing system is configured for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface.

Embodiment 25. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the texture material dispensing system is configured to dispense a texture material when a user holds the handle and depresses the trigger member.

Embodiment 26. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the texture material dispensing system is configured to dispense a texture material when a user simultaneously holds the handle and depresses the trigger member with a single hand.

Embodiment 27. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the trigger is foldable between a non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to the container assembly axis and a use position that is aligned substantially non-parallel to the container assembly axis.

Embodiment 28. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the handle is foldable between a non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis and a use position that is aligned substantially non-parallel to a container assembly axis.

Embodiment 29. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 28, wherein the handle prevents accidental actuation of the trigger when it is folded in the non-use position that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis.

Embodiment 30. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the handle is hollow.

Embodiment 31. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the handle comprises a spring portion along a left exterior edge and a spring portion along a right exterior edge.

Embodiment 32. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 31, wherein the portion of the actuator housing is an exterior portion of the actuator housing.

Embodiment 33. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 32, wherein the exterior portion of the actuator housing comprises a hinge portion comprising a left hinge portion and a right hinge portion; wherein the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually comprise at least two slots that are each individually configured to engage with the spring portion along a left exterior edge of the handle and the spring portion along a right exterior edge of the handle.

Embodiment 34. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 33, wherein the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually comprise a button, wherein depression of both buttons allows the handle to rotate.

Embodiment 35. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 33, wherein the left hinge portion and the right hinge portion each individually comprise a non-use slot that is aligned substantially parallel to a container assembly axis and a use slot that is aligned substantially non-parallel to a container assembly axis.

Embodiment 36. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the depression of the trigger causes a portion of the trigger within the actuator housing to press against an interior surface of the actuator housing, wherein force resulting from the portion of the trigger within the actuator housing pressing against the interior surface of the actuator housing causes the pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator relative to the actuator housing.

Embodiment 37. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the actuator assembly comprises a tube that fluidically connects the pivoting actuator and the outlet opening.

Embodiment 38. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the pivoting actuator is directly fluidically connected to the outlet opening.

Embodiment 39. The texture material dispensing system of embodiment 22, wherein the container stores a texture material and a propellant material.

Embodiment 40. A method of using a texture material dispensing system comprising:

a container assembly comprising a container and a valve assembly;

an actuator assembly comprising:an actuator housing comprising a pivoting actuator;a trigger pivotably attached to the pivoting actuator; anda handle pivotably attached to a portion of the actuator housing; and

an outlet assembly comprising an outlet opening;

wherein depression of the trigger causes pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the pivoting actuator;

wherein the pivoting movement of the trigger relative to the pivoting actuator causes pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator relative to the actuator housing; and

wherein the pivoting movement of the pivoting actuator engages the valve assembly to alter the valve assembly from a closed configuration to an open configuration, the method comprising using the texture material dispensing system for dispensing a texture material onto a target surface.

Embodiment 41. The method of embodiment 40, wherein the target surface is a ceiling.

Embodiment 42. The method of embodiment 40, wherein the method dispenses a popcorn texture onto the target surface.

Based upon the above discussion and illustrations, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various modifications and changes may be made to the various embodiments without strictly following the exemplary embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein. For example, the trigger, adjustable orifice, and actuator may be utilized for a multitude of different types of dispensers and dispensing approaches, for a variety of materials. Further, the embodiments noted herein may be combined, and further embodiments may be separated. Other shapes, such as an oblong shape, and other forms of rotation such as a truncated arc, may be utilized as well, with locking approaches as noted herein. Such modifications do not depart from the scope of various aspects of the invention, including aspects set forth in the claims.

As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having,” “contains”, “containing,” “characterized by” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, subject to any limitation explicitly indicated. For example, a composition, mixture, process or method that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such composition, mixture, process or method.

The transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” is used to define a composition or method that includes materials, steps, features, components, or elements, in addition to those literally disclosed, provided that these additional materials, steps, features, components, or elements do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed disclosure. The term “consisting essentially of” occupies a middle ground between “comprising” and “consisting of”.

Where a disclosure or a portion thereof is defined with an open-ended term such as “comprising,” it should be readily understood that (unless otherwise stated) the description should be interpreted to also describe such a disclosure using the terms “consisting essentially of” or “consisting of.”

Also, the indefinite articles “a” and “an” preceding an element or component of the disclosure are intended to be nonrestrictive regarding the number of instances (i.e. occurrences) of the element or component. Therefore “a” or “an” should be read to include one or at least one, and the singular word form of the element or component also includes the plural unless the number is obviously meant to be singular.

As used herein, the term “about” means plus or minus 10% of the value.