Patent Publication Number: US-2015083755-A1

Title: Dispensing System with Bracket

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     Not applicable 
     REFERENCE REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not applicable 
     SEQUENTIAL LISTING 
     Not applicable 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present disclosure relates generally to a dispensing system for a spray device, and more specifically, a dispensing system for discharging a product from an aerosol container. 
     2. Description of the Background of the Invention 
     Aerosol containers are commonly used to store and dispense a product such as air freshening agents, deodorants, insecticides, germicides, decongestants, perfumes, or any other known product suitable for dispersal in the form of particles or droplets suspended within a gas. The product is forced from the aerosol container through an aerosol valve by a hydrocarbon or non-hydrocarbon propellant, such as a compressed gas. Typical aerosol containers comprise a body with an opening at a top end thereof. The opening at the top end is in fluid communication with the aerosol valve, which is in a closed position during a resting or inoperative state and can be tilted or vertically depressed into an open position during an active or operative state for dispensing. 
     To facilitate their use in various circumstances, aerosol containers are often provided with a discharging apparatus, such as a dispensing system. The dispensing systems are configured to depress the valve stem of the aerosol container to release product, in some cases, to the surrounding environment. Depending upon the application, the dispensing systems can be automated, manual or both. Manual actuators include overcaps, buttons, levers, or triggers that, when depressed or otherwise activated, cause product to be dispensed from the aerosol container. For instance, an actuating cap may be attached to an aerosol container and configured to transfer a downward force to a valve stem when depressed, such that a volume of product is released through a valve assembly of the aerosol container. Alternatively, manual actuators can be provided on dispenser housings that contain the aerosol container therein. For example, the aerosol container may be partially or completely placed within the dispenser housing, which may be provided with an actuating button configured to open the aerosol valve assembly to release the product. These and various other manual-actuating mechanisms can be configured to dispense a volume of product into a room or environment containing the dispensing system. 
     Many conventional dispensing systems provide manual-actuating mechanisms that are only capable of being activated from one actuating position. Some dispensing systems are configured for handheld operation, for instance, by grasping a portion of the dispensing system in a user&#39;s hand and actuating with the same or different hand. Other common dispensing systems are configured for table-top operation, for instance, by resting the dispensing system on a flat surface and depressing a manual actuating button thereon. Still other common dispensing systems are configured for mounted operation, for instance, by fixing the dispensing system to another surface and dispensing product in the mounted position. In most applications, dispensing systems are capable of operating in one of the above positions, in which case the limited operating position may be a less ideal operating position and/or can quickly become tiresome or cumbersome to handle. Although dispensing systems configured for certain actuating systems may not preclude other actuating methods, for instance a table-top dispenser that can be picked up and activated in a handheld position, the user experience may be compromised. For instance, the common table-top dispensing system is not ergonomic, which leads to an uncomfortable user experience if used in the handheld position. Even further, other dispensing systems that are configured for more than one operating position typically appear utilitarian and lack aesthetics, which leads to diminished user satisfaction. In that case, the dispensing system has reduced efficacy since it may be hidden away and rarely used. Further, it is common for dispensing systems that allow for more than one operating position to not be easily interchangeable between operating positions, which may actually defeat the purpose of the multi-operable dispenser by deterring its operation. 
     Therefore, there is a need to provide a dispensing system that promotes user operation in a variety of settings by enabling easy usage from multiple operating positions. Further, there is a need to provide a dispensing system that allows easy maneuvering between the multiple operating positions, which may allow a user to easily grab the dispensing system for handheld operation or alternatively operate as a wall-mounted device. There is also a need to provide a dispensing system that is visually appealing to encourage placement of the system in a variety of settings, which encourages the user to leave the dispensing system in plain view for frequent use. 
     Therefore, there exists a need for an improved dispensing system. This invention is intended to address the above-noted needs and provide related advantages. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect of the present disclosure, a dispensing system includes a housing for receipt of a product to be dispensed and a discharge orifice for emission of the product. The housing includes at least one decorative recessed portion that does not extend completely through the housing and at least one decorative aperture that does extend completely through the housing. Further, one or more optional apertures are provided within the housing for receipt or viewing of a functional component of the system. 
     According to another aspect of the present disclosure a bracket for retaining a dispenser includes a plate adapted to be secured to a wall. The plate has at least two parallel ribs extending between a lower end and an upper end thereof. A shelf extends from the lower end of the plate and at least two prongs extend from the shelf. 
     According to a different aspect of the present disclosure, a kit for a dispensing system includes a dispenser having a multi-directional actuation mechanism with at least two actuators for hand-held use of the dispenser to spray a product. The kit also includes a container holding the product and a bracket for operatively holding the dispenser by one of the at least two actuators. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a top, front, and right side of a dispensing system having a front cover and a rear cover; 
         FIG. 2  is a right side elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a front elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a rear elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a front elevational view of an aerosol container for use in the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a bottom isometric view provided at an angle to illustrate an inner face of the rear cover of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a front elevational view of the inner face of the rear cover of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a front elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1  with the front cover removed; 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1  generally taken along line  9 - 9  thereof; 
         FIG. 10  is a front elevational view of an inner face of the front cover of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a bottom isometric view of the inner face of the front cover of  FIG. 10  taken at an angle; 
         FIG. 12  is identical to the view shown in  FIG. 11 , except for the addition of a nozzle; 
         FIG. 13  is a right-side cross-sectional view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1  generally taken along line  13 - 13  thereof, with the aerosol container and the nozzle removed; 
         FIG. 14  depicts the dispensing system of  FIG. 13  with the addition of a nozzle and aerosol container; 
         FIG. 15  is a top elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a bottom elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a bottom elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 16 , with the aerosol container and the nozzle removed; 
         FIG. 18A  is an isometric view of a top and side of the nozzle of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 18B  is a side elevational view of the nozzle of  FIG. 18A ; 
         FIG. 19A  is an isometric view of a top, front, and right side of a shroud for holding an aerosol container; 
         FIG. 19B  is a front elevational view of the shroud of  FIG. 19A ; 
         FIG. 19C  is a side elevational view of the shroud of  FIG. 19A ; 
         FIG. 20  is a front elevational view of an alternative rear cover of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1  with the shroud of  FIG. 19A  inserted therein; 
         FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional view of the alternative rear cover of  FIG. 20  with the shroud of  FIG. 19A , generally taken along the line  21 - 21  of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a bottom isometric view of an inner face of the rear cover of  FIG. 20  taken at an angle and without the shroud; 
         FIG. 23  is a front elevational view of an inner face of the rear cover of  FIG. 20   
         FIG. 24  is a bottom isometric view of an alternative front cover of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1  provided at an angle; 
         FIG. 25  is a right side elevational view of an alternative dispensing system having the shroud of  FIG. 19A , the rear cover of  FIG. 20 , and the front cover of  FIG. 24 ; 
         FIG. 26  is a cross-sectional view of the alternative dispensing system of  FIG. 25  generally taken along line  26 - 26  thereof of  FIG. 27 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a top elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a bottom elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a bottom elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 28 , with the shroud removed; 
         FIG. 30A  is an isometric view of a top, front, and right side of a mounting dock; 
         FIG. 30B  is an isometric view of a top, front, and right side of another embodiment of the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A ; 
         FIG. 31  is an isometric view of a top, front, and right side of the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A  deployed on the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 32  is a right side elevational view of the mounting dock and dispensing system of  FIG. 31 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a front elevational view of the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A ; 
         FIG. 34  is a right side view of the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A ; 
         FIG. 35  is a top elevational view of the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A ; 
         FIG. 36  is a bottom elevational view of the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A ; 
         FIG. 37  is a front elevational view of the rear cover of  FIG. 6  with the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A  deployed thereon; 
         FIG. 38  is a rear elevational view of the rear cover of  FIG. 6  with the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A  deployed thereon; 
         FIG. 39  is a top elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1  with the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A  deployed thereon; 
         FIG. 40  is a bottom elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1  with the mounting dock of  FIG. 30A  deployed thereon; 
         FIG. 41  is a front elevational view of the rear cover of  FIG. 20  with the mounting dock of  FIG. 30B  deployed thereon; 
         FIG. 42  is a right side elevational view of the mounting dock of  FIG. 30B  deployed on the dispensing system of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a top elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 25  with the mounting dock of  FIG. 30B  deployed thereon; 
         FIG. 44  is a bottom elevational view of the dispensing system of  FIG. 25  with the mounting dock of  FIG. 30B  deployed thereon; 
         FIG. 45  is a front elevational view of a pattern disposed on the front cover of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 46  is a rear elevational view of a pattern disposed on the rear cover of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 47  is a schematic diagram of a pattern on the front or rear cover of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 ; and 
         FIG. 48  is a schematic diagram of the dispensing system of  FIG. 1 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIGS. 1-18B  show a dispensing system  100  that comprises a dispenser  102  configured to receive a product container  104  therein. The dispenser  102  provides a curvilinear housing  106  that comprises a front cover  108  attached to a rear cover  110  at a pivot joint  112 . The front and rear covers  108 ,  110  define an internal cavity  114  therebetween, where the product container  104  containing the product to be dispensed is received. In the present embodiment, the front cover  108  comprises a curved front wall  116  and a curved top cover  118  that extends transversely from the front wall  116  toward the rear cover  110  at an upper end  120   a  of the housing  106 . The rear cover  110  comprises a curved rear wall  122  with a left wing  124   a  and a right wing  124   b  that extend toward the front cover  108 . In particular, the left and right wings  124   a,b  span opposing sides of the housing  106  from the upper end  120   a  to a lower end  120   b  thereof and function as sidewalls to cover at least a portion of the product container  104 . A front pattern  126   a  and a rear pattern  126   b  are disposed on the curved front and rear walls  116 ,  122 , respectively, whereby each of the patterns  126   a,b  includes a blind hole, a through-hole, or various combinations thereof, as described below. The dispensing system  100  is activated by squeezing the front and/or rear covers  108 ,  110  together to release product from the product container  104  and through the top cover  118  of the front cover  108 . 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 1-18B , the dispensing system  100  described herein is configured to release product from a plurality of operating positions. In particular, the dispensing system  100  provides at least three modes of operation for a user to actuate the dispenser  102 , including a handheld position, an upright position, and a mounted position. In the handheld position, the user can pick up the dispenser  102  and squeeze the front and/or rear covers  108 ,  110 , i.e., first and/or second actuators, together to cause a spray of the product. It is contemplated that the curvilinear housing  106  includes ergonomic features that facilitate handheld operation, for instance, by minimizing discomfort or undue strain during use. In particular,  FIGS. 3 and 4  show the front and rear walls  116 ,  122  flaring outwardly at the upper and lower ends  120   a,b  of the housing  106  with a gripping body  128  generally defined therebetween. The gripping body  128  tapers slightly inwardly into the housing  106  toward a central region thereof, which directs the user&#39;s grasp to the narrower circumferential portions of the housing  106  between the flared upper and lower ends  120   a,b . It is contemplated that the gripping body  128  is optimized for user comfort during grasping and actuation of the dispenser  102  in the handheld position. The length of the gripping body  128  may comprise about 40% to about 70% of the dispenser height H. In another embodiment, the gripping body  128  is about 50% of the dispenser height H and generally centered between the flared upper and lower ends  120   a,b.    
     Further, the dispenser  102  is configured to be actuated in an upright, standalone position. For instance, the dispenser  102  can be placed upright on a flat surface, such as an end table in a living room, with the lower end  120   b  of the housing  106  resting against the flat surface. In this case, the user can squeeze the front and/or rear covers  108 ,  110  together and cause the product  102  to be sprayed. Alternatively, the user can simply pick up the dispenser  102  from the upright position for operation in the handheld position, as described above. It is contemplated that the dispenser  102  provides a 360 degree aesthetically pleasing profile so that the dispenser is “counter-worthy” and encourages placement opportunities in plain view, such as in the middle of the table. For instance, the curved silhouette of the housing  106  and the front and rear patterns  126   a,b  appear pleasing and may contribute to or blend in with the overall ambience of the room containing the dispenser  102 . 
     It is noted that in contrast to the dispenser  102  described herein, conventional dispensers are typically aesthetically designed for certain viewing angles and other angles are less preferable to be displayed by the user. For instance, conventional dispensers are utilitarian in appearance and commonly provide only one side that is decoratively appealing while other sides are flat or functional looking. Such conventional dispensers are typically placed against other objects or hidden in less exposed environments, which may decrease the frequency of its use or cause additional effort to be exerted to find the dispenser when not in the plain sight of the user. Quite differently, the dispenser  102  offers improved efficacy, since it can be placed in the open, which leads to more usage opportunities for the user. 
     Still with reference to  FIGS. 1-18B , in a third mode of operation the dispenser  102  can be actuated from a mounted position. In particular, the dispenser  102  can be removably secured on a dock that is mounted to a wall or other vertical surface, of which at least one example will be described in further detail hereinbelow. In this case, actuation of the dispenser  102  is initiated by depressing the front cover  108  toward the mounting wall. It is contemplated that docking the dispenser  102  allows for deployment on a variety of surfaces, such as sloped or vertical surfaces and ceilings. Further, the dock provides a base for storing the dispenser  102 , which minimizes the chances of the dispenser  102  being misplaced or lost by the user. Still further, the wall-mountable dispenser  102  can be easily removed from the dock for operation in other modes, such as the handheld and upright positions described above. Even further, the removable docking allows the dispenser  102  to be transported to other rooms which may need treatment by the product, such that the dispenser  102  is not constrained to just the immediate room that contains it. Yet another advantage to such a removable dispenser  102  is that it allows users to refill and clean the dispenser in a considerably easier manner than prior art devices. Further, the removability of the dispenser  102  also affords users the ability to switch the dispenser  102  for another dispenser having a different design, coloration, aesthetic look and/or functionality, which fits the same dock. 
     Therefore, the dispensing system  100  described herein meets a variety of user needs. The dispensing system  100  promotes user operation in a variety of settings by enabling easy usage from multiple operating positions, including handheld, upright, and mounted positions. A particular benefit of the dispensing system  100  is that it is optimized for all three operating positions, which encourages the user to select the best operational mode based on the specific treatment situation encountered by the user. The user can select the most preferable or appropriate operation without being inhibited by any structural or functional aspects of the dispensing system  100  itself. For instance, the dispensing system  100  described herein is visually appealing from all viewing angles to encourage placement of the system  100  in a variety of settings, which encourages the user to leave the dispensing system  100  in areas visible to the user. If the user desires to treat, for example, an odor in a different room, the user can easily grip the ergonomic dispensing system  100  and spray in a different room. Still further, the user may decide to have a docked dispensing system  100 , whereby the dispenser  102  can be actuated with a force applied on the front cover  108  only. For instance, the user can activate the dispenser  102  by pressing their elbow against the front cover  108  if their hands are occupied. Another benefit is that the dispensing system  100  allows the user to easily interchange between the multiple operating positions. For example, the ergonomics of the dispenser  102  allow easy gripping for handheld operation or alternatively the wall-mounting dock (described below) allows for quick and easy mounting of the dispenser  102 . In this manner, it is contemplated that the combination of features of the dispensing system  100  provides a versatile, three-in-one dispenser. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 5 , it is contemplated that the dispensing system  100  can hold different kinds of product containers  104  to accommodate different refill streams, including aerosols, pump-type sprayers, pressurized and non-pressurized containers, and the like. In the present embodiment, the product container  104  is an aerosolized container configured to dispense product using a propellant such as a hydrocarbon or non-hydrocarbon propellant. Non-hydrocarbon propellants may include, but are not limited to, compressed gasses, including, for example, compressed air, nitrogen, nitrous oxide, inert gases, carbon dioxide, etc., and mixtures thereof. The product container  104  may include any appropriate activation mechanism, such as valves, delivery tubes and/or nozzles, or combinations thereof. The valves may have various different configurations such as tilt valves, axial valves, and/or metered valve systems. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 5 , the product container  104  may comprise any size and volume known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the product container  104  comprise a small container, such as a mini-aerosol container sold by S. C. Johnson and Son, Inc., of Racine, Wis. However, it is contemplated that the dispensing system  100  can utilize other capacities of product containers, e.g., metered dose aerosol containers with an output volume of between about 50 μL to about 300 μL. Embodiments that use smaller product containers  104  allow for a more compact implementation of the dispensing system  100 . It is contemplated that a plurality of product containers  104  of the same or different sizes, aerosolized or non-aerosolized, can be provided for actuation in the dispensing system  100 . Further, in another embodiment it is contemplated that the dispensing system  100  can be fashioned to only be functional with a particular size of container  104 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , in one embodiment the product container  104  is an aerosol container having a container body  130  for storing the product therein and a mounting cup  132  crimped to a top end thereof. The mounting cup  132  is generally cylindrical in shape with a diameter that is about the same diameter as the container body  130  or smaller. Further, the mounting cup  132  is defined by a vertically-disposed cup wall  134  that extends circumferentially therearound and a horizontally-disposed platform  136 . Below the mounting cup  132 , a neck  138  of the product container  104  is angled inwardly with respect to the cup  132  and the remaining portion of the container body  130 . Above the mounting cup  132 , a pedestal  140  extends upwardly from a central portion of the horizontally-disposed platform  136  to support a valve stem  142  that protrudes centrally therefrom. A distal end  144  of the valve stem  142  includes a valve orifice  146 , while a proximal end of the valve stem  142  extends through the pedestal  140  to a valve assembly (not shown) that is disposed internally within the product container  104 . When the distal end  144  of the valve stem  142  is depressed, the valve assembly is in an open or operative state and a volume of the product stored in the product container  104  is discharged through the valve orifice  146 . The contents of the product container  104  may be discharged in a continuous or metered dose. Further, the discharging of the contents of the product container  104  can be effected in any number of ways, e.g., single or multiple continuous or metered discharges, through a partial opening of the valve assembly or valve stem  142 , through a lock and key structure, through a metering or sub-metering chamber, and the like. When the depressive force on the distal end  144  of the valve stem  142  is removed, the valve assembly returns to the closed or non-operative state whereby no discharge of product occurs. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 5 , the product container  104  may include a fragrance, air freshener, or odor eliminator, or any other product disposed within a carrier liquid, a deodorizing liquid, or the like. For example, the fluid may comprise OUST, an air and carpet sanitizer for household, commercial, and institutional use, or GLADE, a household deodorant, both sold by S. C. Johnson and Son, Inc., of Racine, Wis. The fluid may also comprise other actives, such as sanitizers, air and/or fabric fresheners, cleaners, odor eliminators, mold or mildew inhibitors, pest control actives such as insecticides or insect repellents, and the like, or that have aromatherapeutic properties. The fluid alternatively comprises any fluid known to those skilled in the art that can be dispensed from a container, such as those suitable for dispersal in the form of particles or droplets suspended within a gas. In other embodiments, the product container  104  may contain a solid product for dispersal in the form of a powder, pellets, particulates, etc. The dispensing system  100  is therefore adapted to dispense any number of different fluid or product formulations. 
     In certain embodiments, the product is an insecticide, an insect repellant, or an insect attractant. Alternatively, the product may be a disinfectant, sanitizer, air purifier, aromatherapy scent, antiseptic, air-freshener, and/or deodorizer containing certain terpenes. Other examples of products include fragrances (e.g., natural and synthetic oils), odor eliminators, such as triethyleneglycol and/or propylene glycol, antimicrobials, anti-bacterials, corrosion inhibitors, pH adjustors, preservatives, organic acids, various natural and artificial perfumes and the like, or any other active ingredient(s) that are usefully dispersed into the air. Non-limiting examples of these perfumes include animal-based and plant-based natural perfumes, and artificial perfumes such as alcohols, phenols, aldehydes, ketones, terpenes, and esters. 
     The fragrance according to this disclosure may comprise one or more fragrant materials or materials that provide chemically active vapors. In one embodiment, the fragrance can comprise and/or include volatile, fragrant compounds including, but not limited to natural botanic extracts, essences, fragrance oils, and so forth. As is known in the art, many essential oils and other natural plant derivatives contain large percentages of highly volatile scents. In this regard, numerous essential oils, essences, and scented concentrates are commonly available from companies in the fragrance and food businesses. Non-limiting examples of oils and extracts include those derived from the following plants: almond, amyris, anise, armoise, bergamot, cabreuva, calendula, canaga, cedar, chamomile, coconut, eucalyptus, fennel, jasmine, juniper, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, orange, palm, peppermint, quassia, rosemary, thyme, and so forth. 
     Further, a wide variety of volatile fragrances may be used that may optionally also have insect control attributes. In one embodiment, the product contains an active ingredient that is an insecticide and/or insect repellent, an organic phosphorous insecticide, a lipidamide insecticide, a natural repellent such as citronella oil, a natural pyrethrin, a pyrethrum extract, or a synthetic pyrethroids. Suitable synthetic pyrethroids are acrinathrin, allethrin as D-allethrin, Pynamin®, benfluthrin, bifenthrin, bioallethrin as Pynamin Forte®, S-bioallethrin, esbiothrin, esbiol, bisoresmethrin, cycloprothrin, cyfluthrin, beta-cyfluthrin, cyhalothrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, cypermethrin, alpha-cypermethrin, beta-cypermethrin, cyphenothrin, deltamethrin, empenthrin, esfenvalerate, fenpropathrin, fenvalerate, flucythrinate, taufluvalinate, kadethrin, permethrin, phenothrin, prallethrin as Etoc®, resmethrin, tefluthrin, tetramethrin, tralomethrin, metofluthrin, transfluthrin, and/or combinations thereof. In alternative versions, the volatile insecticide is selected from the group consisting of transfluthrin, metofluthrin, vapothrin, permethrin, prallethrin, tefluthrin, and esbiothrin. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 6-9 , the rear cover  110  is shown to include the curved rear wall  122  with left and right wings  124   a,b  extending from left and right sides thereof, respectively. An inner face  150  of the curved rear wall  122  includes a collar  152  to assist in retaining the product container  104 , as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . With reference again to  FIGS. 6-9 , the collar  152  comprises a collar platform  154  that extends from the inner face  150 . A semi-circular cutout  156  is provided within the platform  154  to engage and support the product container  104  at a neck thereof, and more preferably, at a narrow portion  158  below the mounting cup  132 . The product container  104  rests on the collar  152  such that a lower surface  160  of the mounting cup  132  abuts an upper side  162  of the collar platform  154 . In other embodiments the mounting cup  132  of the product container  104  is adjacent to the collar platform, but need not touch or abut same. In the present embodiment, the collar  152  secures the product container  104  by a snap-fit connection, whereby a pair of collar tips  164   a,b  extending from each endpoint of the collar platform  154  defining the semi-circular cutout  156  provide a distance therebetween that is slightly less than the diameter of the neck  138  and/or narrow portion  158  of the container  104 . In this embodiment, the collar tips  164   a,b  and/or additional portions of the collar  152  and/or rear wall  122  temporarily resiliently deform during the insertion or removal of the product container  104 . 
     As further shown in  FIG. 6 , an underside  165  of the collar  152  is provided with a set of collar support ribs  166   a - d  that permanently join the collar  152  to the inner face  150 . It is contemplated that the collar  152  is also permanently joined to the inner face  150  and the collar support ribs  166   a - d  provide additional structural integrity, particularly over frequent insertions and removals of the product container  104  therefrom, over continuous actuation of the container  104  during dispensing, and/or for holding the weight of the product container  104 . In the present embodiment, four longitudinally-disposed collar support ribs  166   a - d  are evenly spaced about the underside  165  of the collar  152 , with the two outermost ribs  166   a,d  slightly larger in size than the two innermost ribs  166   b,c . It is noted that any number, size, shape, or configuration of collar support ribs  166   a - d  can be provided. In this particular embodiment, each collar support rib  166   a - d  defines a sloped edge  168  that slopes from the collar  152  downwardly and inwardly toward the inner face  150 . The sloped edge  168  may be in conformity with the geometry of the product container  104  and minimize material required for construction. It is contemplated that the collar  152 , collar support ribs  166   a - d , and curved rear wall  122  are integrally formed, such as by injection molding, or may be made from separate components that are fitted or attached to one another in a permanent or removable manner. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the collar  152  is disposed generally within an upper half of the curved rear wall  122  such that the product container  104  is held entirely within the bounds of the curved rear wall  122  without any portions protruding beyond the upper or lower ends  120   a,b . Turning to  FIG. 14 , it may be seen that the collar  152  is adapted to position the product container  104  at an angle A away from the curved rear wall  122  so that the valve orifice  146  points away from the rear wall  122  as well. More specifically, structure internal to the dispenser  102 , including the collar  152  and/or other portions of the housing  106 , e.g. portions defining the lower end  102   b , cause a longitudinal axis of the container or valve (see axis B) to be angled or not parallel to an axis defined by a flat support surface such as a wall (see axis C) or an axis (see axis D) defined by a section of a surface of the housing  106  adjacent the support surface. In one particular embodiment, the axis C and D are parallel with one another. In another aspect, the product container may be generally referred to as being angled away from a support surface, which indicates that the product ejected from the valve orifice is initially directed away from the support surface. It is contemplated that the angle A is between about 4 degrees to about 10 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle A is between about 5.5 degrees to about 8.5 degrees. In one particular embodiment, the angle A is about 6 degrees to about 8 degrees. With reference again to  FIG. 14 , it may be seen that the collar  152  is angled downwardly from the curved rear wall  122  toward the lower end  120   b . The collar support ribs  166   a - d  are also angled downwardly to tilt the product container  104  forward. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 6-8 , a hinge  170  is provided at the upper end  120   a  of the curved rear wall  122  to form a portion of the pivot joint  112 . The hinge  170  comprises a pair of fins  172   a,b  that are U-shaped and horizontally spaced apart by a fin support  174  disposed therebetween. The fin support  174  is a horizontal surface that is permanently affixed to adjacent faces  176   a,b  of the fins  172   a, b , respectively, and to the inner face  150  of the curved rear wall  122  to provide structural integrity. Outer faces  178   a,b  of the fins  172   a, b  are provided with posts  180   a,b , respectively, that are generally cylindrical structures adapted to be received in corresponding structures of the front cover  108  to form the pivot joint  112 . Cutouts  182   a,b  are provided on the curved rear wall  122  behind the posts  180   a,b  to facilitate operation of the pivot joint  112 . In particular instances, the rotational movement of the front cover  108  at various angles may cause portions of the front cover  108  to project through the cutouts  182   a,b.    
     Referring to  FIGS. 6-9 , a tongue  184  is disposed at the lower end  120   b  of the curved rear wall  122  and is adapted to extend beneath the product container  104 . The tongue  184  comprises a generally U-shaped rib  186  with a tab  188  extending centrally therefrom. The tab  188  is a rectangular protrusion having a top side  190  provided with a pair of ridges  192   a, b  and a bottom side  194  that is generally flat (see  FIG. 6 ). It is contemplated that the tab  188  protects at least a portion of the bottom of the product container  104 , prevents accidental slippage of the container  104  from the dispensing system  100 , and/or guides the insertion of the container  104 . The tongue  184  also facilitates certain operational modes of the dispensing system  100 , such as the mounted position, as described further hereinbelow. Further, the tongue  184  may be angled downwardly from the curved rear wall  122  in a similar manner as the collar  152  described above. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  6  and  13 , the rear curved wall  122  is attached to the left and right wings  124   a,b  that extend forwardly toward the front cover  108 . The wings  124   a,b  may be partially covered by edges of the front cover  108  as shown in  FIG. 2 . The wings  124   a,b  are shaped to taper downwardly from the upper end  120   a  of the dispenser  102  to the lower end  120   b  thereof. It is contemplated that the wings  124   a,b  conceal at least a portion of the product container  104  and the internal contents of the dispenser  102  that appear functional, such as the general area of the mounting cup  132 , the valve stem  142 , and the collar  152 . Lower portions of the product container  104  are partly revealed by the tapered form of the left and right wings  124   a,b  to provide visual indication to the user that the product container  104  is inserted within the dispenser  102  and/or to permit the user to identify the type of container  104  being dispensed. In the present embodiment, the left and right wings  124   a,b  are slightly offset from the left and right edges of the curved rear wall  122  so that they appear recessed behind the front cover  108  and the rear cover  110 , as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . Turning to  FIGS. 6 and 13 , a plurality of pillars  196   a - f  are integrally formed with the left and right wings  124   a,b  and the inner face  150  of the curved rear wall  122 . The pillars  196   a - f  are spaced apart on the left and right wings  124   a,b  to provide further structural integrity thereto and may be different lengths to correspond to the tapering of the wings  124   a,b . For instance, pillars  196   a,d  are disposed at the widest portion of the left and right wings  124   a,b , respectively, and have the longest lengths; pillars  196   c,f  disposed at the narrowest portion of the wings  124   a,b , respectively, have the shortest lengths; and pillars  196   b,e  disposed at middle portions of the wings  142   a,b  have intermediate lengths. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 13 , the front cover  108  comprises the curved front wall  116  and the top cover  118  that extends generally transversely from the upper end  120   a  of the wall  116  toward the curved rear wall  122 . It is contemplated that the curved front wall  116  and the top cover  118  are permanently affixed together or integrally formed from a single injection mold, such that an angle B between the front wall  116  and the top cover  118  is fixed and approximately 90 degrees, as shown in  FIG. 13 . Further, as shown in  FIG. 3 , the curved front wall  108  is generally greater in width than the curved rear wall  122 , so that the rear wall  122  is not visible from the front view of the dispenser  102 . In this case, the greater width of the curved front wall  108  allows the left and right wings  124   a, b  to extend behind the edges of the wall  108 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9 ,  10 ,  13  and  15 , the top cover  118  comprises a concave surface  198  that slopes upwardly from the curved front wall  108  to the curved rear wall  110 , whereby the top  118  integrally extends to a flat, inclined edge  200  that protrudes toward the pivot joint  112 . As shown in  FIG. 15 , it may be generally stated that the concave surface  198  defines a curved surface that curves inwardly from its left and right rounded edges  202   a,b  and a front rounded edge  202   c  that is joined to the curved front wall  108 . With reference again to  FIG. 13 , the top cover  118  is recessed within the dispenser  102 , such that the curved front and rear walls  108 ,  110  continue to extend above the inclined edge  200  and the rounded edges  202   a,b,c . A discharge sink  204  surrounding a discharge orifice  206  is provided on the top cover  118  for releasing the product therethrough. In particular, the discharge sink  204  is defined by a downwardly sloped, circular, oval or oblong-shaped well on the top cover  118  that terminates with the discharge orifice  206 . It is contemplated that the discharge sink  204  facilitates in concealing certain functional aspects of the dispenser  102 , such as a nozzle  208  (see  FIGS. 14 and 15 ) that is received therethrough. In the present embodiment, the discharge sink  204  and discharge orifice  206  are provided off-centered on the top cover  118 , and more particularly off-centered on the concave surface  198  toward the inclined edge  200 . In other embodiments, the discharge sink  204  and the discharge orifice  206  may be centered or otherwise positioned elsewhere. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , an inner surface  210  of the top cover  118  is shown that includes a plurality of structural ribs  212   a - d  and a plurality of hinging ribs  214   a - c . The structural ribs  212   a - d  extend from the front rounded edge  202   c  of the top cover  118  toward the opposing end thereof, i.e., toward the inclined edge  200  or curved rear wall  122 , and are integrally formed with an inner face  216  of the curved front wall  108 . The structural ribs  212   a - d  may vary in number, shape and/or size and provide additional structural integrity to the permanent connection between the top cover  118  and the curved front wall  108 . In the present embodiment, the inner-disposed structural ribs  212   b,c  are shorter in length than the outer-disposed structural ribs  212   a,d  so as not to occlude the discharge orifice  206 . For instance, the inner-disposed structural ribs  212   b,c  terminate prior to reaching the discharge orifice  206 , while the outer-disposed structural ribs  212   a,d  continue beyond the orifice  206  contained therebetween and terminate near the inclined edge  200 . The structural ribs  212   a - d  may be similar in shape as the collar support ribs  166   a - d  and may also have rounded or sloped edges  168  as previously described. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , the plurality of hinging ribs  214   a - c  are located between the outer-disposed structural ribs  212   a,d  on the inner surface  210 . In particular, outer-disposed hinging ribs  214   a,c  are spaced apart to encompass a portion of the inner-disposed structural ribs  212   b,c , the discharge orifice  206 , and an intermediate hinging rib  214   b  provided therebetween. The intermediate hinging rib  214   b  is shorter in length than the outer-disposed hinging ribs  214   a,c  and generally spans from a discharge sink underside  218  toward the inclined edge  200 . Therefore, the intermediate hinging rib  214   b  is not visible from a top view of the top cover  118 . In contrast, the outer-disposed hinging ribs  214   a,c  extend beyond the inclined edge  200  and are thus visible from the top view. In particular, each of the outer-disposed hinging ribs  214   a,c  includes a post orifice  220   a,b , respectively, configured to receive the posts  180   a,b  provided on the curved rear wall  110 . It is contemplated that the front cover  108  can be snapped onto the rear cover  110  by snappingly-engaging the post orifices  220   a,b  with the posts  180   a,b  to form the pivot joint  112  that permits the front cover  108  to rotate about the rear cover  110 . Therefore, the outer-disposed hinging ribs  214   a,c  are adapted to temporarily resiliently deform during the snapping-on or snapping-off of the front cover  108 . It is also contemplated that this resilient deformation of the hinging ribs  214   a,c  may be in combination with, or in lieu of, any resilient deformation of the hinge  170  and components thereof on the rear cover  110 . It is further contemplated that the curved front wall  116 , the top cover  118 , the structural ribs  214   a - d  and the hinging ribs  214   a - c  are preferably integrally formed with one another. However, in a different embodiment the aforementioned structure is affixed to one another in a preferably permanent or otherwise secure manner. 
     Referring yet again to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , a ledge  222  is provided that spans across portions of the inner face  216  of the curved front wall  108  at the lower end  120   b  thereof. It is contemplated that the ledge  222  provides additional structural integrity to the curved front wall  108  over frequent dispensing operations that require the front wall  108  to be depressed against the curved rear wall  122 . It is noted that the shape and structural integrity of the components of the front cover  108  are configured to translate an actuation force onto the valve stem  142  of the product container  104  to result in a discharge of the product. Further, it is noted that the nozzle  208  is optionally provided and may be snap-fit into the discharge orifice  206 , integrated with the discharge orifice  206 , or provided in combination with the product container  104 . As shown in the bottom views of  FIGS. 16 and 17 , the dispensing system  100  provides a hole or open base  224  at the lower end  120   b  to allow viewing of functional components therein and to allow visibility of the product container  104 . In one embodiment, the product container  104  includes a date code (not shown) printed on the bottom surface  226  of the container  104  and/or other information pertaining to the container  104 , which may be useful for the user to know in order to properly operate the dispensing system  100 . Further, the open base  224  of the dispensing system  100  allows the user to see if there is a product container  104  secured therein, including the type of product or container  104 , the number of containers  104 , the size of the container  104 , and/or a level of product within the container  104 . In the present embodiment, the open base  224  is a hole that is defined between the front cover  108  and the rear cover  110  at the lower end  120   b  of the housing  106 . In some embodiments, the open base  224  is defined between the ledge  222  of the front cover  108  and the tongue  184  at the lower end of  120   b  of the housing  106 . Further, it is contemplated that the open base  224  is defined by a wall with an aperture or opening provided therein, so that the opening permits the user to view various internally-disposed functional components of the dispensing system  100 , such as portions of the product container  104 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 17 , it is similarly contemplated that a pair of left and right side gaps  228   a,b , respectively, allow viewing of functional components of the dispensing system  100 . The left and right side gaps  228   a,b  are holes disposed on left and right sides  230   a,b , respectively, of the dispensing system  100 . In the present embodiment, the left and right side gaps  228   a,b  are defined between the left and right wings  124   a,b  and the left and right portions of the front cover  108 . As described previously, the tapered form of the left and right wings  124   a,b  exposes the internal cavity  114  of the housing  106 , which allows the user to check if the product container  104  is inserted, if it is inserted properly, to identify the type of container  104  and product being dispensed, and/or other internally-disposed components of the dispensing system  100 . Therefore, in the present embodiment, the left and right sides  230   a,b  minimize the visibility of certain functional components by way of the left and right wings  124   a, b , which conceal some functional aspects including the mounting cup  132 , and also permit visibility of other functional components such as the product container  104 . It is contemplated that other configurations can be provided about the left and right sides  230   a,b  of the housing  106 , including a plurality of holes of various shapes and sizes on the left and right sides that allow the user to view functional components therein. Further, it is contemplated that the various holes can be connected. For instance, the left and right side gaps  228   a, b  can be connected to the open base  224  and altogether considered as a single hole, as shown in  FIG. 17 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 9 , the nozzle  208  is adapted to connect the valve stem  142  of the product container  104  to the discharge orifice  206 . In particular, as shown in  FIGS. 18A  and B, the nozzle  208  comprises a first receptacle  232  and a second receptacle  234  disposed thereabove, whereby the receptacles  232 ,  234  are integrally formed and stacked along a longitudinal axis N. The first receptacle  232  comprises a first cylindrical wall  236  that extends upwardly from a bottom end  238  to an abutment surface  240 . The bottom end  238  faces the product container  104  and includes an aperture  239  for receipt of the valve stem  142  therein (see  FIGS. 9 ,  12 , and  14 ). The abutment surface  240  opposite the bottom end  238  is a horizontally-disposed platform that engages various portions of the housing  106 , such as a portion of the housing  106  that surrounds the discharge orifice  206 . In one embodiment, the abutment surface  240  is in flush contact with the top cover  118 . In another embodiment, the abutment surface  240  engages one or more of the structural ribs  212   a - d  and/or hinging ribs  214   a - c , such as the outer-disposed hinging ribs  214   a,c  as shown in  FIG. 12 . It is contemplated that the abutment surface  240  transfers an actuating force onto the valve stem  142  when such force is applied on the front cover  108  and/or rear cover  110 . In the present embodiment, the abutment surface  240  is further provided with a plurality of cavities  242  (see  FIG. 18A ), which may reduce the weight and material comprising the nozzle  208 . 
     The second receptacle  234  comprises a second cylindrical wall  244  that is circumferentially spaced about a discharge tube  246  to protect the narrow, thin tube  246  from being disturbed. The discharge tube  246  provides an internal conduit  248  (see  FIGS. 9 and 14 ) and an outlet  250  that are aligned with the longitudinal axis N and provide a path for a flow of the product stream. It may be seen in the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 9  that the longitudinal axis N is coincident with the longitudinal axis B of the product container  104 . When the front cover  108  and/or the rear cover  110  are depressed inwardly and downwardly toward the product container  104 , i.e., rotated about the hinge  170 , the top cover  118  moves the nozzle  208  toward the product container  104  by contact with the abutment surface  240 . Subsequently, internal surfaces defining the aperture  285  that the valve stem  142  is seated within contact same to open and release the product contained within the container  104 . It is contemplated that the nozzle  208  can be used in conjunction with a variety of different product containers  104 . Further, the first and/or second receptacles  232 ,  234 , and the aperture  239  may have a conical, frusto-conical, cylindrical, or annular shape that is configured to receive various valve orifices  146  of a variety of valve stems  142 . Still other nozzles known in the art can be used and may have a variety of nebulizing and/or misting effects to distribute the product from the housing  106 . It is further noted that the nozzle  208  may be integrally molded with the housing  106 , such as the top cover  118  of the housing, or the nozzle  208  may be snap-fitted into portions defining the discharge orifice  206  of the top cover  118 . As such, it is envisioned that the dispenser  102  can be used with multiple types of product containers  104  and/or nozzles  208 , each of which may have a variety of different geometries. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 19A-C , an alternative nozzle-type structure comprises a shroud  260  that can accommodate product containers  104  having a multiplicity of widths and lengths. The shroud  260  includes a body portion  262  attached to an actuator socket  264 . The actuator socket  264  includes a cylindrical receptacle  266  and a bulbous end  268  with a flow passage  270  extending therethrough (see  FIGS. 19A and 21 ). The actuator socket  264  is attached to the body portion  262  by a plurality of flexible members  272  that allow one or both of the actuator socket  264  and the body portion  262  to be displaced toward one another. A lower end of the body portion  262  includes a left shoulder  274   a  and a right shoulder  274   b  extending from an exterior surface  276  thereof. Each shoulder  270   a,b  includes a pair of slits  278  that define a flexible arm  280  therebetween. Each flexible arm  280  has a pair of tapered protrusions  282  extending outwardly therefrom. It is contemplated that the tapered protrusions  280  are adapted to allow the shroud  260  to be interchangeably used in other dispensing systems, such as the dispensing system of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/138,768. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 20 and 21 , the shroud  260  is adapted to receive the product container  104  into an internal cavity  283  of the body portion  262  through an aperture  285  in a bottom end  290  thereof. Upon insertion of the container  104 , the valve stem  142  is disposed within the actuator socket  264  (see  FIG. 21 ). In the present embodiment, the shroud  260  includes a plurality of flexible upper internal shoulders  284  that snap over the mounting cup  132  of the product container  104  and a plurality of flexible lower internal shoulders  286  that snap underneath the mounting cup  132 . In use, the upper and lower internal shoulders  284 ,  286  fixedly hold the product container  104  with respect to the body portion  262  of the shroud  260 . As shown in  FIG. 21 , an inlet  288  of the actuator socket  264  is sized to accommodate the valve stem  142  of the product container  104 . With the product container  104  thus installed within the shroud  260 , the valve stem  142  is in contact with the actuator socket  264 . However, in the present resting state the valve stem  142  is not depressed by the actuator socket  264 , or depressed to a sufficient degree, to open the valve assembly within the product container  104 . Preferably, the degree of pressure in the resting state should be sufficient to ensure that at all times a seal is maintained between the actuator socket  264  and the valve stem  142 . Thus, the product container  104  is held axially within the shroud  260 . Unwanted downward movement is prevented by the lower internal shoulders  286  and unwanted upward movement is prevented by the spring loading within the valve stem  142  and the upper internal shoulders  284 . As the product container  104  is supported only at its mounting cup  132 , containers  104  of different lengths can readily be accommodated in the same shroud  260 . In the present embodiment, the shroud  260  is longer than the product container  104  inserted therein to illustrate that other, longer or shorter containers  104  can be placed within the shroud  260 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 25 and 26 , the shroud  260  is utilized in an alternative dispensing system  300  that comprises a dispenser  302  configured to receive the product container  104  therein. It is contemplated that the alternative dispensing system  300  is similar to the dispensing system  100  described above, except for the differences noted herein. In one embodiment, the alternative dispensing system  300  is taller and wider than the previously described dispensing system  100  to fit variously sized product containers  104 . The dispenser  302  provides a curvilinear housing  306  that comprises a front cover  308  attached to a rear cover  310  at a pivot joint  312  (see  FIG. 26 ). The front and rear covers  308 ,  310  define an internal cavity  314  therebetween where the shroud  260  is received. In the present embodiment, the front cover  308  comprises a curved front wall  316  and a top cover  318  that extends transversely from the front wall  316  toward the rear cover  310  at an upper end  320   a  of the housing  306 . The rear cover  310  comprises a curved rear wall  322  with a left wing  324   a  and a right wing  324   b  that extend toward the front cover  308  (see also  FIG. 22 ). Turning again to  FIG. 25 , a front pattern  326   a  and a rear pattern  326   b  are disposed on the front and rear walls  316 ,  322 , respectively, whereby each of the patterns  326   a,b  includes a blind hole, a through-hole, or various combinations thereof, as described below. The dispensing system  300  is activated by squeezing or rotating the front and/or rear covers  308 ,  310  together to depress the actuator socket  264  and the valve stem  142  of the product container  104  to release product from the container  104  through the top cover  318  of the front cover  308 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 20-23 , an inner face  330  of the curved rear wall  322  is adapted to receive the shroud  260  at a collar  332 . The collar  332  includes a collar platform  334  that extends from the inner face  330  and includes portions defining a semi-circular cutout  336  (see  FIGS. 22 and 23 ). The semi-circular cutout  336  is adapted to receive the shroud  260  about the exterior surface  276  of the cylindrical-shaped body portion  262  above the left and right shoulders  274   a,b . The collar  332  secures and/or supports the shroud  260  by a snap-fit connection and may also provide structural integrity to the rear wall  334 . Specifically, a pair of collar tips  338   a,b  (see  FIGS. 20 ,  22  and  23 ) extend from distal portions of the collar platform  334  that define the semi-circular cutout  336  and provide a distance therebetween that is slightly less than the diameter of the body portion  262 . In this case, the collar tips  338   a,b  and/or additional portions of the collar  332  or curved rear wall  322  temporarily resiliently deform during the insertion or removal of the shroud  260 . 
     As further shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23 , an underside  340  of the collar  332  is provided with a pair of collar support ribs  342   a,b  that permanently join the collar  332  to the inner face  330 . The width of the collar support ribs  342   a,b  may be shaped narrowly so as not to interfere with the left and right shoulders  274   a,b  of the shroud  260 . It is noted that any number, size, shape, or configuration of collar support ribs  342   a,b  can be provided. In the present embodiment, the collar  332  is generally disposed within a lower half of the curved rear wall  322  and angled upwardly from the wall  322  to tilt the shroud  260  forwardly. As shown in  FIG. 26 , the collar  332  is adapted to facilitate in the positioning of the shroud  260  at an angle R away from the curved rear wall  322  and/or a support surface such as a wall so that the valve orifice  146  is also directed away from the rear wall  322  and/or support surface. It is contemplated that the angle R is similar to the angle A defined previously and may be generally characterized as not parallel to an axis defined by a support surface (generally referred to by axis C) or an axis defined by the rear wall  322  (see axis D). For instance, in some embodiments, the angle R is about 6 degrees to about 8 degrees. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 22 and 23 , a standoff rib  344  projects from a portion of the inner face  330  with a pair of standoff supports  346   a,b  disposed therebelow to provide structural integrity to the rear wall  322 . The standoff rib  344  is disposed above the collar  332  within an upper half of the rear wall  322  to also facilitate in the positioning of the shroud  260  away from the rear wall  332 . In particular, as shown in  FIG. 26 , the standoff rib  344  extends farther into the internal cavity  314  than portions of the collar  332  projecting underneath it. In this manner, a forward edge  348  of the standoff rib  344  abuts the exterior surface  276  of the shroud  260 . The standoff rib  344  is also angled upwardly from the axis D defined by the rear wall  322  in a similar fashion to the collar  332  and further spaces the shroud  260  from the rear wall  322 . 
     With reference again to  FIGS. 22 and 23 , a hinge  350  is provided at the upper end  320   a  of the curved rear wall  322  to form a portion of the pivot joint  312  shown in  FIGS. 26 and 27 . It is contemplated that the pivot joint  312 , and thus the hinge  350 , is similar to the pivot joint  112  and the hinge  170  described previously. Particularly, the hinge  350  comprises a pair of fins  352   a,b  that are horizontally spaced apart by a fin support  354  disposed therebetween. Outer faces  356   a,b  of the fins  352   a,b  are provided with posts  358   a,b , respectively, that are generally cylindrical structures adapted to be received in corresponding structures of the front cover  308  to form the pivot joint  312 . Cutouts  360   a,b  are provided on the rear wall  322  behind the posts  358   a,b  to facilitate operation of the pivot joint  312 . 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 22 and 23 , a tongue  362  disposed at the lower end  320   b  of the rear wall  322  is adapted to extend beneath the shroud  260 . The tongue  362  comprises a tab  364  extending centrally from the lower end  320   b  of the rear wall  322 . The tab  364  is a generally rectangular portion having a top side  366  provided with a pair of ridges  368   a,b  and a bottom side  370  that is generally flat. It is contemplated that the tab  364  guides the insertion of the shroud  260  and provides support in maintaining the upright position of the dispensing system  100  when placed on a support surface such a table. The tongue  362  also facilitates in other operational modes of the dispensing system  100 , such as the mounted position, as described further below. Further, the tongue  362  is disposed between a pair of ridged ribs  372   a,b , which are further disposed between a pair of support posts  374   a,b . Each of the ridged ribs  372   a,b  provides a ridge  376   a,b , as shown in  FIG. 26 , which is shaped to accommodate the angled deployment of the shroud  260  that results in the bottom end  290  of the shroud  260  projecting toward the curved rear wall  322 . The ridged ribs  372   a,b  abut the bottom end  290  to provide support and prevent lateral and/or longitudinal movement of the shroud  260 . Further, each of the support posts  374   a,b  operate as a support surface that the bottom end  290  of the shroud  260  rests upon. In the present embodiment, the support post  374   a  is spaced apart from the ridged rib  372   a  to define a channel  378   a , and the support post  374   b  is spaced apart from the ridged rib  372   b  to define a channel  378   b.    
     Turning now to  FIGS. 24 and 25 , the front cover  308  comprises the front wall  316  and the top cover  318 , which extends generally transversely from the upper end  320   a  of the wall  316  toward the rear curved wall  310 . The top cover  318  provides a discharge sink  380  surrounding a discharge orifice  382  for releasing the product therethrough (see  FIGS. 26 and 27 ). It is noted that the front cover  308  is similar to the front cover  108  described above. 
     The front cover  308  is configured to be snapped to the rear cover  310  at the pivot joint  312 , such that the dispensing system  300  operates in the same manner as the dispensing system  100 . With reference to  FIG. 26 , it is contemplated that the actuator socket  264  is engaged to the discharge orifice  382  by abutment of the cylindrical receptacle  266  against surfaces defining the orifice  382  so that the bulbous end  268  extends through the discharge sink  380 , either partially or fully. As shown in  FIG. 24 , the front cover  308  provides a pair of post orifices  384   a,b  that project from the top cover  318  for engaging the hinge  350  of the rear wall  322  (see  FIG. 23 ). During an activation operation, the front and/or rear covers  308 ,  310  are squeezed or rotated together to cause the top cover  318  and/or the rear cover  310  to be forced downwardly and inwardly onto the actuator socket  264 . In turn, the actuator socket  264  moves toward the product container  104  by way of the flexible members  272  to open the valve stem  142  and release the product. In another embodiment, for instance when the dispensing system  300  is wall-mounted, activation occurs by depressing the front cover  308  toward the rear cover  310 , which provides an opposing force from a mounting wall behind it. Thus, the dispensing system  300  provides a triple-use dispenser  302  similar to the dispensing system  100  described previously, i.e., a variety of operating modes, including handheld, upright, and mounted position are possible. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 25-29 , the variety of operating modes will be further elaborated upon in connection with the dispensing system  300 . It is contemplated that the user initially sets up the dispensing system  300  prior to operational deployment by slidingly inserting the product container  104  through the aperture  285  in the bottom end  290  of the body portion  262  of the shroud  260 . The user stops the insertion of the container  104  when a snapping noise and/or force is perceived, which occurs when the mounting cup  132  is snapped between the upper and lower internal shoulders  284 ,  286  of the shroud  260 . With the product container  104  secured therein, the shroud  260  is snapped into the collar  332  of the rear cover  310  and positioned such that the left and right shoulders  274   a,b  of the shroud  260  are disposed beneath the collar  332  and the bottom end  290  of the shroud  260  rests on the support posts  274   a,b . With the shroud  260  thus secured to the rear cover  310 , the front cover  308  can be snapped onto the rear cover  310  by connecting the post orifice  384   a  to the post  358   b  and the post orifice  384   b  to the post  358   a , which together define the pivot joint  312 . Alternatively, the front cover  308  can be snapped onto the rear cover  310  prior to insertion of the shroud  260  or it may preferably be already secured before a user must interact with it. Thereafter, the front cover  308  can be rotated upwardly about the pivot joint  312  to expose the inner face  330  of the rear cover  310  for insertion of the shroud  260 . With the shroud  260  and the front cover  308  secured to the rear cover  310 , the front cover  308  is rotated downwardly to a pre-operative position or rest state, whereby the discharge orifice  382  of the front cover  308  rests atop the actuator socket  264  of the shroud  260 . In the present embodiment, the bulbous end  268  protrudes through the discharge orifice  382  and is circumnavigated by the orifice  382  and the discharge sink  380  of the front cover  308 . In some embodiments, the actuator socket  264  is snapped into surfaces defining the discharge orifice  382  when the front cover  308  is rotated downwardly. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 9 and 14 , it is noted that the dispensing system  100  is assembled in a similar fashion to the dispensing system  300 , except that the mounting cup  132  of the product container  104  is snap-fit directly onto the collar  152  of the rear cover  110 . In this case, the valve stem  142  can be inserted into the nozzle  208  before or after snapping the product container  104  into the collar  152 . It is noted that the nozzle  208  may be provided integral with the front cover  108  and/or press-fit or otherwise secured to surfaces defining the discharge orifice  206 . In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the nozzle  208  is snap-fitted into the discharge orifice  206 , the front cover  108  is hingedly retained to the rear cover  110 , the product container  104  is snap-fitted to the collar  152  of the rear cover  110 , and then a downward rotational movement of the front cover  108  about the rear cover  110  aligns the nozzle  208  with the valve stem  142  to place the system in a rest or non-operative state. Preferably, a user must only hingedly rotate the front cover  108  about the rear cover  110  to allow for insertion of the product container  104  into the dispensing system  100  and its subsequent placement into a rest state when the front cover is rotated into a pre-operative position. 
     Turning back to  FIGS. 25-29 , upon assembly of the dispensing system  300 , the dispensing system can be deployed in the upright position by engaging the lower end  320   b  against a flat surface, such as setting the system  300  on a table-top. The outwardly-flared lower end  320   b  of the curvilinear housing  306  provides a stable footprint for the standalone, upright positioning of the dispensing system  300 . Further, in the present embodiment, the tongue  362 , particularly the flat bottom side  370  of the tab  364 , abuts the resting surface and contributes to overall stability (not shown). During the upright dispensing mode, the user squeezes the front and/or rear covers  308 ,  310  together to discharge the product from the product container  104 . Upon activation, a plume of product is discharged at an angle upward and away from the rear cover  310 , the angle of emission being dependent on the angle R that the shroud is offset from the rear cover  310 , or the axis D defined by the rear cover  310 , as shown in  FIG. 26 . Similarly, for the dispensing system  100  as shown in  FIG. 14 , the angle of emission is dependent on the angle A that the product container  104  is offset from the rear cover  110 , which also defines the axis D. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 25-29 , the user can grasp the dispensing system  300  for handheld operation. In particular, the dispensing system  300  is ergonomically designed similar to the dispensing system  100  described above to facilitate handheld use. It is contemplated that the dispensing systems  100 ,  300  are lightweight so as not to cause strain on the user&#39;s anatomy, e.g., their hand or wrist, when lifting and actuating the systems  100 ,  300 . In the handheld position, the user applies a squeezing or rotational force to the front and/or rear covers  308 ,  310  to cause a spray of the product to occur. It is contemplated that front cover  308  is held facing away from the user, such that the angled plume of product does not project directly at the user. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 30A-44 , in a third mode of operation, the user can attach the dispensing systems  100 ,  300  to a mounting bracket  400  for storage and for actuating the dispensing system  100 ,  300  from a vertical surface. As shown in  FIG. 30A , the mounting bracket  400  can comprise a plate, or elongate portion  402 , that is adapted to be secured to a wall. The elongate portion  402  is flared upwardly toward a securing end  404  and narrows and straightens as it extends toward a resting end  406 . The securing end  404  comprises a forwardly bent flap  408  having a snap element  410  that protrudes forwardly therefrom to snap over the upper end  120   a  of the rear cover  110  of the dispensing system  100 . A mounting hole  412  is provided proximate the snap element  410  for hookingly receiving a nail, screw, hook, or other projection from the vertical surface (not shown) to engage the mounting bracket  400  thereto. In fact, any attachment means may be used to secure the mounting bracket to a surface, e.g., an adhesive or any other connection means as known to one of skill in the art. In the present embodiment, the mounting hole  412  is provided beneath the snap element  410  so that when the dispensing system  100  is deployed on the bracket  400 , the functionality of the hole  412  and its engagement to the vertical surface is hidden behind the dispensing system  100  for aesthetic purposes. It is contemplated that the elongate portion  402  is a straight and flat structure that defines a plane W, which is parallel to the vertical mounting surface such that the elongate portion  402  is configured to flushly align against the vertical surface. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 30A , a front surface  414  of the elongate portion  402  is provided with a curved standoff rib  416  that interfaces with the rear cover  110 . The curved standoff rib  416  is preferably complementary to the curvature of the rear cover  110  and facilitates in the snap-in assembly thereof by defining a longitudinal gap  418  between the rear cover  110  and the elongate portion  402  (see  FIG. 32 ). The longitudinal gap  418  also facilitates the operation of the mounting hole  412  whereby a nail, screw, hook or other projection may extend through the hole  412  toward the rear cover  110 . Further, the curved standoff rib  416  brings the front surface  414  into geometric conformity with the curvature of the curved rear wall  122 , which is flared at the upper and lower ends  120   a,b . Even further, the curved standoff rib  416  contributes to side-to-side stability of the dispenser  102  when mounted thereon. With reference to  FIGS. 30A and 30B , the curved standoff rib  416  is disposed on the flared upper half  420  of the elongate portion  402  proximate the forwardly bent flap  408 . The front surface  414  of the elongate portion  402  can further be provided with surface treatments  422 , such as decorative and/or informative indicia, shapes, insignias, logos, and the like, that are imprinted, indented, painted on or cut through the portion  402 . 
     The resting end  406  comprises a horizontally-disposed shelf  424  with a left prong  426   a  and a right prong  426   b  extending upwardly from the left and right sides of the shelf  424 . The left and right prongs  426   a,b  are positioned distal to the elongate portion  402  to define a slot  428  therebetween. The slot  428  is adapted to guide and receive the rear cover  110  into a resting position on the shelf  424 . The shelf  424  is further provided with a plurality of parallel ribs, such as tapered spacer ribs  430   a - c , which in the present embodiment include portions within the slot  428 . The spacer ribs  430   a,b,c  facilitate in guiding and positioning the rear cover  110  onto the shelf  424  by bringing the geometry of the slot  428  into conformity with the curvature of the curved rear wall  122 . In particular, the spacer ribs  430   a,b,c  interface with the lower end  120   b  of the curved rear wall  122  that rests on the shelf  424 . As shown in  FIG. 34 , the slot  428  decreases in width Z in an insertion direction I moving downwardly toward the shelf  424 , due in part to the tapered geometry of the spacer ribs  430   a,b,c . It is noted that although three spacer ribs  430   a,b,c , are shown, any number of ribs can be utilized. In one embodiment, at least two parallel ribs or spacer ribs extend between a lower end  431  and an upper end  433  of the elongate portion  402 . In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the snap element  410  is provided adjacent the upper end  433  of the elongate portion  402  and above the spacer ribs  430   a,b,c  and the standoff rib  416 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 31 ,  32 ,  37 , and  38 , the mounting bracket  400  is shown deployed on the dispensing system  100 . In one embodiment, the lower end  120   b  of the rear cover  110  is inserted into the slot  428  and restingly engages the shelf  424  and the upper end  120   b  of the cover  110  is snap-fit to the mounting bracket  400  by the snap element  410 . As such, the snap-fit connection at the upper end  120   b  retains the dispenser  102  on the mounting bracket  400  while the lower end  120   b  rests on the shelf  424 . It is contemplated that the snap element  410  and/or forwardly bent flap  408  temporarily resiliently deform over the top end  120   a  of the rear cover  110  during the snap-on or snap-off thereof. The snap-in mechanism further provides a user indication, such as a click noise, that the dispenser  102  is fully secured to the mounting bracket  400 . In one embodiment, to facilitate the connection of the mounting bracket  400 , the rear cover  110  is less curved or flared than the front cover  108  to further provide a secure, tight fit when placed on the mounting bracket  400 . In another embodiment, it is contemplated that the dispensing system  100  is integrally formed with one or more mounting holes (not shown) on the rear cover  110 , such as a nail or screw hole that allow for securement to a vertical surface. In other embodiments, other securement mechanisms known to one of skill in the art may be employed to hold the dispensing systems  100 ,  300  onto a support surface. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 37 ,  39  and  40 , the mounting bracket  400  is shown engaging the rear curved wall  122 . The snap element  410  snaps over the upper end  120   a  of the rear curved wall  122  at the securing end  404 . The shelf  424  and the prongs  426   a,b  extend about the lower end  120   b  of the rear curved wall  122  at the resting end  406 . In particular, the prongs  426   a,b  are disposed adjacent (either in abutment or near to) outer sides  432   a,b , respectively, of the U-shaped rib  186  (see  FIG. 37 ). Further, the prongs  426   a,b  are also disposed adjacent (either in abutment or near to) the inner face  150  of the rear curved wall  122 . The prongs  426   a,b  prevent, or significantly prevent, lateral and forward movement of the dispenser  102 . It is contemplated that at least two prongs are provided on the shelf  424 . In one embodiment, the tongue  184  of the rear curved wall  122 , and particularly the bottom side  194  of the tab  188 , rests on the shelf  424  and provides additional stability. It is noted that even with the mounting bracket  400  deployed on the dispenser  102 , the dispensing system  100  can be placed in the upright position on a flat surface. As shown in  FIG. 32 , the rear cover  110  is elevated above a flat resting surface F due to the thickness of the shelf  424 , such that the dispenser  102  may tilt forwardly. Similarly, the dispenser  102  is angled slightly forwardly when the mounting bracket  400  is positioned flushly against the vertical surface of a support wall that defines the axis C. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 38 , a back surface  434  of the elongate portion  402  is shown, with the dispensing system  100  mounted to the opposing front surface  414  (not visible). It is contemplated that the back surface  434  is smooth and flat to so that it rests against a vertical mounting surface. In another embodiment, the back surface  434  has at least one inset  436  that is an indented portion to facilitate application of adhesives, such as double-sided tape, or other mounting means. 
     Referring to FIGS.  30 B and  41 - 44 , another embodiment of a mounting bracket  400 B having a different size than the mounting bracket  400  is shown. In particular, the mounting bracket  400 B is sized according to the dispensing system it accommodates, such that the elongate portion  402  is shortened or lengthened to conform with the height of the dispenser secured thereto. It is noted that the mounting bracket  400 B is provided to illustrate that the mounting bracket  400  can be scaled up or down in size. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 41-44 , the mounting bracket  400 B is mounted onto the dispensing system  300 . It is contemplated that the dispensing system  300  is larger in size than the dispensing system  100  and that the mounting bracket  400 B is an enlarged version of the mounting bracket  400  with similar reference numerals provided for similar structure. As such, it is contemplated that the mounting bracket  400 B receives the dispensing system  300  in a similar fashion as that of the mounting bracket  400 , except for the differences noted herein. In particular, the prongs  426   a,b  are positioned within the channels  378   a,b  at the lower end  320   b  of the rear curved wall  322  (see  FIG. 41 ). It is contemplated that the ridged ribs  372   a,b  and the support posts  374   a,b  that together define the channels  378   a,b  guide the insertion of the curved rear wall  322  onto the shelf  424 . Further, the supports posts  374   a,b  and ridged ribs  372   a,b  that define the channels  378   a,b  also provide side-to-side and forward-to-backward stability of the dispenser  102  by restraining lateral movement of the curved rear wall  122  completely or within predefined margins of movement. Further, the bottom side  370  of the tab  364  that extends outwardly from the rear curved wall  322  rests atop the shelf  424  to provide additional stability during actuation in the vertical position. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 45-48 , it is contemplated that aesthetics are an important aspect in maximizing user benefit of the dispensing systems  100 ,  300 . The aesthetics will hereinafter be described in relation to the dispensing system  100 , which is further representational of the dispensing system  300 . As shown in  FIGS. 45 and 46 , the front and rear covers  108 ,  110  of the housing  106  are provided with the front and rear patterns  126   a,b , respectively. In particular, the curved front wall  116  and the curved rear wall  122  are provided with the front and rear patterns  126   a,b , respectively, although any portion of the housing  106  can have patterns disposed thereon. 
     Each of the front and rear patterns  126   a,b  comprises at least one decorative recessed portion, hereinafter referred to as a decorative recession  500   a,b , respectively, within the front and rear patterns  126   a,b  that does not extend entirely through the respective wall  116 ,  122 . Further, each of the front and rear patterns  126   a,b  comprises at least one decorative aperture, hereinafter referred to as a decorative aperture or an aperture  502   a,b , respectively, within the front and rear patterns  126   a,b  that does extend completely through the wall  116 ,  122 . Therefore, each decorative recession  500   a,b  is a blind hole that does not extend completely through the housing  106  while each aperture  502   a,b  extends through the housing  106  to the internal cavity  114 . Both the decorative recessions and the apertures  502   a,b  may be broadly characterized as interruptions within the surface of the housing and, more particularly, the front and rear walls  116 ,  122 . It is contemplated that the combination of the front decorative recessions  500   a  and the front apertures  502   a  add depth and color contrast to the front cover  108 . Similarly, the combination of the rear decorative recessions  500   b  and the rear apertures  502   b  add depth and color contrast to the rear cover  110 . In particular, the placement and configuration of the front and rear apertures  502   a,b , which may be positioned about the front and rear decorative recessions  500   a,b , respectively, create a pronounced and visible lighting contrast between the through-hole apertures and the blind hole recesses, as well as between interrupted and uninterrupted portions of the housing  106 . Thus, such a visible contrast within the housing  106  may be alterable with the configuration of the front and rear patterns  126   a,b.    
     As shown in  FIG. 45 , for example, a plurality of decorative recessions  500   a  and a plurality of apertures  502   a  are positioned about the curved front wall  116 . In the present embodiment, the front decorative recessions  500   a  and the front apertures  502   a  appear similar in shape and size, but different in orientation. It is noted that the depth of each front decorative recession  500   a  can vary within each recession  500   a  or compared to other recessions that are blind holes. The plurality of front decorative recessions  500   a  are leaf-shaped and provided within an outer surface  504   a  of the front cover  108 . Further, the plurality of front decorative recessions  500   a  are dispersed among the plurality of front apertures  502   b  to achieve variations in the light contrast from the housing  106 . For instance, it is contemplated that the front apertures  502   a  appear darkest, because photons of light traveling through the apertures  502   a  enter the internal cavity  114  and do not bounce back sufficiently to be perceived. On the other hand, the uninterrupted portions of the front outer surface  504   a  appear the lightest, since photons hitting the surface  504   a  are reflected back toward the user. Finally, the front decorative recessions  500   a  appear intermediate in lightness due to the depth of the recessions that cast shadows and occlude some photon reflection. In one embodiment, the front outer surface  504   a  is visually perceived as white colored, the front decorative recessions  500   a  appear gray, and the front apertures  502   a  appear black. However, any number of light and color gradations are possible based on the materials used to make the housing  106  as well as the coloration or finish of the housing. 
     In a different embodiment, the perceived surface texture or finish of the front outer surface  504   a  can be visually altered. For instance, the front outer surface  504   a  may be provided black, but given the high reflectivity of light from the surface  504   a , the outer surface  504   a  appears shiny. In contrast, the front apertures  502   a  appear matte black due to its lack of surface reflection. Further, the front decorative recessions  500   a , which may also be provided in black, appear intermediate between shiny and matte, when viewed in conjunction with the surrounding front decorative recessions  500   a  and the front outer surface  504   a.    
     Therefore, it is contemplated that a color contrast or perceived texture or finish of the housing  106  are alterable by the provision of the combination of front decorative recessions  500   a , front apertures  502   a , and portions of the outer surface  504   a  that are uninterrupted. It is contemplated that the effect can be further altered by varying the depth of the front decorative recessions  500   a  to change the shades of gray perceived therein and/or the shiny or matte quality of the front cover  108 . For instance, a shallower recession may appear shinier and/or lighter in color than a deeper recession due to its higher reflectance of photons. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 45 and 46 , it is noted that the rear decorative recessions  500   b , the rear apertures  502   b , and the rear outer surface  504   b  of  FIG. 46  can be described in a similar fashion as those of the front in  FIG. 45 . 
     The front and rear patterns  126   a,b  therefore contribute in many ways to the 360 degree all-around aesthetic qualities of the dispensing system  100  by creating a more visually interesting dispenser  102  having a variety of different discernible colorations and perceived textures and finishes, which naturally encourages the user to pick up the dispenser  102  to use it. It is noted that the front and rear patterns  126   a,b  shown in  FIGS. 45 and 46  are non-limiting, and the patterns  126   a,b  can be non-mirrored or mirrored and similar or different in design. Further, other portions of the housing  106  can be provided with patterns, e.g., the left and right sides and the top and bottom of the housing  106 . In one embodiment, the housing  106  includes at least one decorative recession  500  and/or at least one decorative aperture  502  on one or more of the housing  106  or the front and rear covers  108 ,  110  or the front and rear walls  116 ,  122 . In another embodiment, one or more of the housing  106  or the front and rear covers  108 ,  110  or the front and rear walls  116 ,  122  includes a plurality of decorative recessions  500  and/or a plurality of decorative apertures  502 . 
     Referring yet again to  FIGS. 45 and 46 , it is contemplated that although seemingly infinite configurations of the front and rear patterns  126   a,b  can be provided, in operation the quantity of front and rear apertures  502   a,b  must be balanced with the structural integrity of the dispenser  102 . For instance, too many interruptions disposed on the front cover  108 , whether blind holes, recessions, apertures or combinations thereof, can compromise the structural integrity of the front cover  108 . In this case, the front cover  108  may wear out and break under normal bending forces. As such, it is contemplated that a surface of the housing  106  is not disposed entirely with recessions and apertures, and further, the size and placement of such interruptions may optimized to best maintain the structural integrity of the housing  106  while still providing aesthetically pleasing qualities. As shown in  FIG. 45 , in one embodiment the curved front wall  116  comprises a majority of non-interrupted surface area NI forming the front outer surface  504   a . The total interrupted surface area I, consisting of both the front decorative recessions  500   a  and the front apertures  502   a , comprises about 5% to about 40% of the curved front wall  116 . In another embodiment, the total interrupted surface area I comprises about 10% to about 30% of the curved front wall  116 . In yet another embodiment, the total interrupted surface area I comprises about 25% of the curved front wall  116 . Further, a ratio R of the total interrupted area I to the non-interrupted surface area NI of the curved front wall  116 , R=I/NI, is about 1:4 to about 2:5. In another aspect, the ratio R is about 1:3. It is noted that the ratio R does not exceed 1. 
     As shown in  FIG. 46 , the curved rear wall  122  and the pattern  126   b  disposed thereon can be described in a similar fashion to the curved front wall  116  of  FIG. 45 . As such, the curved rear wall  122  shows an alternative distribution of interrupted and non-interrupted surface areas that may be applicable to the curved front wall  116  as well. It is contemplated that none of the configurations of patterns  126   a,b  illustrated herein are intended to be limiting. In one embodiment, the curved rear wall  122  comprises a majority of non-interrupted surface area NI on the rear outer surface  504   b . The total interrupted surface area I, consisting of both the rear decorative recessions  500   b  and the rear apertures  502   b , comprises about 5% to about 20% of the curved rear wall  122 . In another embodiment, the total interrupted surface area I comprises about 10% to about 15% of the curved rear wall  122 . In yet another embodiment, the total interrupted surface area I comprises about 10% of the curved rear wall  122 . Further, a ratio R of the total interrupted surface area I to the non-interrupted surface area NI of the curved rear wall  116 , R=I/NI, is about 3:20. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 47 , it is contemplated that the recessions and apertures disposed on the housing  106 , such as the front and rear decorative recessions  500   a,b  and the front and rear apertures  502   a,b , can have a plurality of geometric shapes and designs. Similarly, it is contemplated that the front and rear patterns  126   a,b  can be formed in various patterns as well. For instance, recessions, apertures, and patterns can be shaped as a plurality of horizontal grills, curved lines, or other geometries. It is contemplated that various patterns such as soft curves, radii, blossom patterns, and other natural shapes may be formed to improve the feel and tone delivered in viewing the dispenser  102 . Further, it is contemplated that the front cover  108  and the rear cover  110  can provide different themes of designs in order to provide different looks and feels for the user to selectively display. Merely by way of example, the front cover  108  can have aesthetic designs of summer motifs while the rear cover  110  provides an autumnal theme, such that the user can select different display themes that transition through the seasons. As shown in the schematic diagram of  FIG. 47 , a plurality of shapes and designs can be contemplated for the front and rear decorative recessions  500   a,b , the front and rear apertures  502   a,b , the front and rear patterns  126   a,b , and/or any other recessions and apertures disposed on the housing  106 . In the non-limiting example of  FIG. 47 , the dispensing system  100  can have various aesthetic elements in form of rectangular shapes, trapezoids, diamonds, horizontal and vertical grills, triangles, stars, donut-shapes, hearts, circles and ovals, smiley faces, moons and lightening, and the like, which can be selected depending on the demographics of the targeted users. 
     Turning now to the schematic diagram of  FIG. 48 , it is contemplated that the dispensing system  100  comprises at least one functional aperture  506   a - 1 , also known as optional apertures, disposed within the housing  106 , e.g., on the front and/or rear covers  108 ,  110 . In particular, the term functional aperture is herein defined as an aperture that is provided for allowing either mechanical or electrical input or output from, into, or through the aperture to effect a functional activity of the dispensing system  100  in one or more of the three modes of operation disclosed herein. In contrast, non-functional apertures are herein defined as apertures that do not effect the operational aspects of the dispensing system  100 . For example, a non-functional aperture  508  can be a front or back aperture  502   a,b  that is provided in conjunction with the front and/or back pattern  126   a,b  for aesthetic purposes only. On the other hand, an aperture that extends through the front or back covers  108 ,  110  is a functional aperture  506  if it serves a functional activity in operating the dispensing system  100  as noted above, even though it may also contribute to the aesthetics of the device. 
     As shown in  FIG. 48 , various functional apertures  506   a - 1  are provided, although the list of functional apertures  506   a - 1  is not intended to be limiting. In one embodiment, the functional aperture  506   a  is an aperture or hole that facilitates operation of a sensor, such as a sensor port, that detects environmental conditions and/or objects or people. The sensor may be able to detect the stimuli or environmental condition as it passes through the functional aperture  506   a  or by the sensor extending wholly or partially therethrough. Sensors may be used to trigger a particular mode of the dispensing system  100 , e.g., an actuation mode, or any other functional aspect of the dispensing system  100 , which may be manual and/or automatic. The sensor may comprise any type of sensor as known to those of skill in the art, of which a non-exclusive list of sensors includes light sensing elements, such as photodetectors, photodiode light detectors, photoresistors, photodiodes, or phototransistors; passive infrared sensors; motion sensors; acoustic sensors; humidity sensors; temperature sensors; pressure sensors or contact switches; vibration sensors; accelerometers; chemical or scent sensors; ultrasonic motion sensors; a radio or microwave radio motion sensor; or audio sensors. Further, the sensor can be replaced or used in combination with any other type of sensor known to those skilled in the art. 
     In another embodiment, the functional aperture  506   b  is provided on the housing  106  for a switch to extend wholly or partially therethrough. In other embodiments, the aperture  506   b  may allow a user or other means to extend through the aperture to activate the switch. For example, the switch may turn the dispensing system  100  on or off or change an operating parameter of the dispensing system  100 . Similarly, the functional aperture  506   c  may expose a button, which may be used to effect any number of functional undertakings, such as manual spraying or a locking or unlocking of an actuation mechanism or the housing  106 . The functional aperture  506   d  may provide access to a trigger and/or other functional elements of the dispensing system  100  to actuate the dispensing system  100 . The functional aperture  506   e  may further provide a path of egress for a discharged product. Further, it is noted that the functional apertures  506   a - 1  need not extend toward the inner cavity  114  of the housing  106 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 48 , in yet another embodiment, the functional aperture  506   f  is provided as an opening for a positioning element of the dispensing system  100  that aids in the deployment thereof. Similarly, the functional aperture  506   g  may expose a mounting element of the dispensing system  100 . In another embodiment, the functional aperture  506   h  facilitates the operation of a movable joint or other structural component of the dispensing system  100 . For instance, in some embodiments, the cutouts  182   a,b  are considered functional apertures  506   g  since they facilitate the operation of the pivot joint  112  and the snapping on or off of the front cover  108  from the hinge  170  at the rear cover  110 . It is contemplated that the cutouts  182   a,b  permit temporary deflection and bending of the hinge  170  area, such that the fins  172   a,b  can diffuse bending forces during the snapping instead of absorbing such forces that may cause the fins  172   a,b  to bend and break. Indeed, in some embodiments holes or apertures for receipt of structural components of a hinge or bending element may also be considered to be a functional aperture  506   h.    
     In yet another embodiment, the dispensing system  100  comprises a functional aperture  506   i  that provides access to a user interface and/or a functional aperture  506   j  that provides access to a control panel. In such cases, the functional aperture  506   j  is an opening that allows user interaction or viewing of a state or condition of the dispensing system  100 . For instance, the user can alter settings on the control panel and/or user interface to adjust various operational parameters, such as a dispensing parameter, a timing parameter, a sensor parameter, etc. Indeed, such functional apertures  506   i ,  506   j  may broadly encompass any display whether interactive with a user or not. In fact, such apertures may be said to encompass any electrical component. Indeed, another functional aperture  506   k  may be provided for receipt or viewing of a light. For instance, the functional aperture  506   k  may allow a light to be emitted from an LED or other lighting means and/or to allow a light emitting structure to extend wholly or partially therethrough. 
     Still further, the dispensing system  100  can comprise a functional aperture  5061  that provides functional access to the product container  104  inserted within the dispensing system  100 . Specifically, such access allows the user to insert and/or remove the product container  104  from the dispensing system  100 . 
     Further, it is contemplated that a kit can be provided for the dispensing systems  100 ,  300 . For instance, the kit can include the dispenser  102 , the product container  104 , and the mounting bracket  400 . Preferably, the dispenser  102  may be characterized as a multi-directional actuation mechanism having at least two actuators, such as the front cover  108  and rear cover  110 , and/or any portions thereof such as the top cover  118 . It is contemplated that the at least two actuators permit hand-held use of the dispenser to spray the product that is contained in the product container  104 . Further, the mounting bracket  400  operatively holds the dispenser  102  by one of the at least two actuators. 
     In another embodiment, the kit includes use instructions on operation of the dispenser  102  in the handheld position, in the upright position on a support surface, and in the mounted position on a wall. For instance, the instructions may include directions to hold the dispenser  102  in the user&#39;s hand and squeeze or rotate the front cover  108  and/or the rear cover  110  together. For operation in the upright position, the instructions may include directions to squeeze or rotate the front and/or rear covers  108 ,  110  together while the dispenser  102  rests on a flat resting surface, such as a table top. Further, mounting instructions can be included for docking the dispenser  102  and operating it therefrom. For instance, the mounting instructions may instruct the user to hang the mounting bracket  400  on a nail or other protrusion that is received through the mounting hole  412 , such that back surface  434  of the bracket  400  is flush against the wall. Alternatively, the instructions can instruct the user to provide or apply an adhesive on the back surface  434  of the mounting bracket  400 . With the mounting bracket  400  deployed, the instructions can further indicate that the rear cover  110  should be slid onto the bracket  400  such that the lower end  120   b  of the cover  110  is received in the slot  428  defined behind the prongs  426   a,b . The instructions may also include directions on how to actuate the front cover  108  from its mounted position on a wall to emit a spray. Further, instructions may be included for replacing the product container  104  with another refill product container by lifting up the hingedly-attached front cover  108 , removing the used-up product container, and inserting a new product container by snapping the mounting cup immediately above the collar  152 . If the kit includes the shroud  260 , the instructions can include directions on inserting the shroud  260  into the collar  332  of the dispensing system  300 . Further, instructions may be provided directing that the user position the shroud  260  such that the left and right shoulders  274   a,b  of the shroud  260  are disposed beneath the collar  332 . 
     Any of the embodiments provided herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in connection with different embodiments. All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are, in relevant part, entirely incorporated herein by reference; the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present invention. 
     INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY 
     Numerous modifications to the present invention 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 the invention and to teach the best mode of carrying out same. The exclusive rights to all modifications which come within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.