Patent Publication Number: US-2023132890-A1

Title: Passive emission fragrance diffuser for personal use

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a nonprovisional patent application which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/273,596, filed on Oct. 29, 2021, entitled “Non-spray Passive Fragrance Diffuser For Personal Use,” the contents of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
    
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to the art of passive fragrance diffusers, and more specifically to a non-spray passive emission fragrance diffuser with a unique simplified push activation mechanism for transitioning a fragrance carrier member between a sealed storage position and an aromatic position open to the surrounding airspace. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art. 
     Perfumes and fragrance dispensers of many kinds have historically been used to help mask or eliminate odors. Fragrance diffusers in the nature of wicking devices, ultrasonic aroma diffusers, air-vent clips, aerosol sprays, charcoal bags, scented candles and scent-emitting jewelry/rings, etc., are just some of the many devices that have been used for this purpose, and more. Indeed, adding a pleasant aroma to the surrounding environment has also been considered helpful in boosting one&#39;s self-confidence and body image, and enhancing mood, attractiveness, and health. Aromatherapy is often used in treatments for insomnia and headaches, and has long been widely considered an effective aphrodisiac. 
     The difficulty with many of the conventional fragrance diffuser devices, however, is that they are not designed to facilitate or allow for wide versatility and flexibility in use. Many of such aforementioned devices are designed for in-house mounting or stationary use only, i.e., to be set on a table; plugged into a wall socket; or clipped onto an air-vent (such as in a car). Many of these devices are unsightly, relatively large and/or just take up otherwise usable space and are prone to being knocked over and spilled. 
     Other aerosol and spray-type fragrance devices are also available, but these devices require an operator to specifically spray those areas for which an aroma is desired and require periodic reuse of the device to avoid the aerosol from dissipating into the surrounding environment. Such devices are not normally long-lasting, require frequent user interaction, and can be annoying to those in immediate surrounding areas. Even fragrance devices which are designed for more personal use as a jewelry pendant, finger-ring or the like are generally complicated in design and difficult to easily activate and deactivate, when desired. Such devices are generally not very user-friendly and are designed more as a decorative piece which has limited functionality in other environments. 
     It is evident, therefore, that there is a distinct need for an improved long-lasting passive fragrance diffuser which is compact in size and highly versatile for personal use in a multiplicity of circumstances and different environments, and which is simple in design to facilitate easy activation and deactivation, as desired. It is with these objectives in mind, and more, that we have developed our improved passive, non-spray fragrance diffuser, as will be described in more detail below. 
     SUMMARY 
     In furtherance of the foregoing objectives, the present invention is comprised of a new non-spray passive fragrance delivery mechanism/diffuser assembly which includes an outer tubular housing body which carries an inner movable piston and fragrance diffusion member for selectively dispensing a fragrance to ambient air outside the tubular housing upon axial movement of the piston within the tubular housing. More specifically, the inner movable piston is constructed to carry a fragrance carrier member, such as a section of silicone or other absorptive material impregnated with a fragrant oil. The piston is longer than the outer tubular body, so it always extends beyond the confines of the body through one of the open ends thereof. The piston is constructed with an interference fit with the housing body so as to seal the fragrance carrier member therein when not in use. 
     Upon pushing the piston in one axial direction, outlet passages formed in one exposed end of the piston permit the scent from the fragrance carrier to escape into the surrounding environment. Upon pushing the piston axially in the other direction, the piston seals against the outer housing body and prevents the fragrance of the carrier member from being dispersed into the surrounding environment. 
     The simplicity of this design permits the device to be constructed in small compass as an accessory piece which may be clipped to any piece of clothing or other personal article, such as a handbags, gym bags, and the like. Optionally, the fragrance diffuser assembly may also be designed either as a long-lasting throw-away device or as a device which is refillable by the user with any desired fragrance or essential oil. 
     The foregoing and additional features and advantages of the present invention will be more readily apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the description and specific examples herein are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. 
         FIG.  1 A  is a perspective view of our new passive emission fragrance diffuser, showing the diffuser in its assembled closed position; 
         FIG.  1 B  is a vertical cross section view of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  1 A , shown in its open position; 
         FIG.  1 C  is a side elevation view of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  1 A , show in its open position; 
         FIG.  1 D  is a vertical cross-section view of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  1 A , shown in its closed position; 
         FIG.  1 E  is a side elevation view of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  1 A , shown in its closed position; 
         FIG.  2 A  is a side elevation view of the outer tubular body of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  2 B  is an end view of the tubular body shown in  FIG.  2 A , viewed from the left side thereof in the drawing; 
         FIG.  3 A  is a perspective view of the inner piston member which is received within the outer tubular body of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  3 B  is a vertical cross-section view of the inner piston member shown in  FIG.  3 A ; 
         FIG.  3 C  is an end view of the piston member shown in  FIG.  3 A , taken from the left side thereof as shown in the drawing; 
         FIG.  4 A  is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of our new passive emission fragrance diffuser, showing the diffuser in its assembled open position; 
         FIG.  4 B  is a front elevation view of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  4 A , shown in its open position; 
         FIG.  4 C  is a vertical section view of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  4 A , viewed in its open position from the left side thereof as shown in the drawing; 
         FIG.  4 D  is a vertical section of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  4 A , viewed in its open position from the front side thereof as shown in the drawing; 
         FIG.  4 E  is a detailed close-up view of one end of the fragrance diffuser in its open position, as shown and labeled in  FIG.  4 C ; 
         FIG.  4 F  is a close-up detailed view of the opposite end of the fragrance diffuser in its open position, as shown and labeled in  FIG.  4 C ; 
         FIG.  4 G  is a vertical section view of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  4 A , viewed from the front side thereof in its closed position; 
         FIG.  5 A  is a vertical section of the outer tubular body of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  4 A , viewed from the left side thereof as shown in the drawing; 
         FIG.  5 B  is a vertical section of the outer tubular body of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  4 A , viewed from the front side thereof as shown in the drawing; 
         FIG.  6 A  is a perspective view of the inner piston member which is received within the outer tubular body of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  4 A ; 
         FIG.  6 B  is a front elevation view of the inner piston member shown in  FIG.  6 A ; 
         FIG.  6 C  is a side elevation view of the inner piston member shown in  FIG.  6 A ; 
         FIG.  6 D  is a cross section view of the inner piston member shown in  FIG.  6 A , taken along lines  6 D- 6 D thereof; 
         FIG.  7    is a perspective view of the fragrance carrier/diffusion member which is impregnated with a fragrance oil and carried by the inner slidable piston member of the fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG.  4 A ; and 
         FIG.  8    is a perspective drawing depicting, without limitation, various different shapes of fragrance diffusers incorporating the principles of our invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features. 
     With reference now to  FIGS.  1 A- 1 E  of the drawings (hereinafter collectively “ FIG.  1   ”), an exemplary embodiment is shown of our new non-spray passive fragrance delivery mechanism/diffuser in its assembled state. The diffuser assembly is comprised generally of an outer tubular body member  1  with an inner telescopically slidable piston  2  which incorporates a fragrance carrier/diffusion member  3 . The outer tubular body member  1  has openings  4  and  5  within its opposite ends  6  and  7 , respectively, which communicate with a central body chamber  8  where the slidable piston  2  is carried. 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   , the piston  2  is longer than the outer tubular body  1  such that it always protrudes through at least one of the end openings  4  or  5  thereof, depending on how the slidable piston  2  is positioned within the outer body  1 . With this design, the inner piston  2  may be manually pushed in one direction ( FIGS.  1 B &amp;  1 C ) to activate/open the fragrance diffuser and permit fragrance to passively disperse into the surrounding environment, or be pushed in the opposite direction ( FIGS.  1 D- 1 E ) to deactivate/close the fragrance diffuser as a sealed, contained unit. A friction fit of the piston  2  to the outer tubular body  1  adjacent ends  6  and  7  thereof prevents leakage of the fragrance when not in use. The simplicity of this design permits the device to be constructed in small compass as an accessory piece which may be clipped via an attachment member  9  to any piece of clothing or other personal article. 
     For the aforementioned sealing to occur between the outer tubular body  1  and inner piston  2 , it is contemplated that the outer tubular body  1  of the diffuser be formed of a relatively rigid material, such as stainless steel, aluminum or other suitably rigid metal or plastic material. In due part, the inner piston  2 , or at least the sealing portions thereof, should be formed of a material having some capacity for conformance to be capable of providing the required sealing function against the outer body member  1 . Such materials may include, without limitation, Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLPE), Low Density Polyethylene (LPE), Perfluoroalkoxy alkanes (PFA), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Urethanes, Thermoplastic Urethanes (TPU) and rubber materials. Other suitable known sealing materials are also readily available. 
     Referring further to  FIGS.  1 B and  1 D  of the drawings, it can be seen that the terminal end  7  of the outer tubular member  1  has a slight outward radial taper  10  at opening  5 . As best seen in  FIG.  1 D , this taper  10  functions as a piston guide against which the inner piston  2  will bear to be guided into proper sealed relation with body  1  when the fragrance diffuser is deactivated and closed. It is contemplated that taper  10  may be approximately ten degrees (10°) relative to the inner surface of chamber  8  of body  1 , adjacent end  7 . However, it is certainly possible that other taper angles may also be sufficient for the stated purpose without departing from the invention herein. 
     At the opposite end  6  of the body member  1 , a radially inward protruding annular terminal shoulder  11  is formed which diametrically constricts the end opening  4  relative to the interior dimensions of chamber  8 . As will be discussed hereafter, shoulder  11  creates a stop for piston  2  within chamber  8 . This helps to facilitate proper sealed positioning of piston  2  when the fragrance diffuser is closed, and also prevents potential damage of piston  2  as a result of overtravel within body member  1 . 
     With reference now being had to  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  of the drawings (hereinafter collectively “ FIG.  3   ”), the construction of piston  2  is shown in greater detail. As seen, piston  2  is an elongated member having opposite end portions  15  and  16 . Notably, for most effective and efficient operation of the present fragrance diffuser, it is contemplated that piston  2  be greater in length than the outer tubular body  1  within which it is carried. If so, as best seen in  FIG.  1   , at least one of the end portions  15  and  16  of the slidable piston  2  will be visibly exposed and readily accessible at all times to the user. Thus, the user may easily activate and deactivate the fragrance diffuser, and adjust the positioning of piston  2  within the tubular outer body  1 , by merely pushing the piston  2  in one direction or the other with one&#39;s fingers. 
     To explain further, in the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   , it can be seen that end portion  15  of piston  2  is constructed with a cross-sectional shape and dimensions closely approximating, but slightly less than, that of opening  4  in the outer tubular body member  1 . Accordingly, end portion  15  of piston  2 , which is aligned with opening  4  in tubular body member  1 , is permitted to move freely through opening  4  of body  1  upon axial pressure being applied to one of the opposite end portions  15  or  16  of piston  2 . As further shown, the opposite end portion  16  of piston  2  is compliantly sized to slide in and out of the opening  5  formed in the opposite end  7  of the outer body  1 . The cross-sectional or diametrical dimensions of end portion  16  of piston  2  are sized just slightly less than that of the inner wall surface of chamber  8  of body  1 , such that end portion  16  of piston  2  is permitted to move freely through opening  5  of body  1  upon axial pressure being applied to one of the opposite end portions  15  or  16  of piston  2 . 
     As further shown in  FIGS.  1  and  3   , to perfect a seal of piston  2  against the inner wall surface of chamber  8  and control movement thereof within the outer body  1 , piston  2  is formed adjacent one end with a radially outward protruding piston ring  12 . Although piston ring  12  is shown as being preferably molded integrally and homogenously with the remainder of the piston  2 , it is contemplated that it may be formed as a separately engineered component without departing from the invention herein. In the present embodiment, piston ring  12  is located axially inward from the distal end  14  of piston  2  and is correspondingly sized to seal circumferentially against the interior wall surface of chamber  8 . As shown, piston ring  12  includes at least one annular lobe  13  extending about its periphery which functions to bear against the interior wall surface of chamber  8  and help effect a proper seal thereagainst. 
     The opposite end portion  16  of piston  2  is also constructed with at least one annular sealing lobe  17  extending about its periphery. As best shown in  FIG.  1 D , upon closure of the fragrance diffuser, end portion  16  of piston  2  is guided within opening  5  of tubular body  1  by the tapered edge  10  thereof. Once seated, sealing lobe  17  bears firmly in sealing relation against the inner wall surface of chamber  8  of body  1 , and thus seals the opposite end  16  of the fragrance diffuser. Consequently, by pressing the end portion  16  of piston  2  axially inward within the confines of the outer body  1 , both end portions  15  and  16  of piston  2  are caused to seal against the inner wall surface of chamber  8 , thus sealing the entire intermediate section  18  of piston  2  from exposure to the ambient air or outer atmosphere of the surrounding environment. 
     As best shown in  FIGS.  1  and  3   , the intermediate section  18  of piston  2  is smaller in diameter than the adjoining end portions  15  and  16  thereof. Intermediate section  18  is adapted to carry the fragrance carrier member  3  (see  FIGS.  1 B &amp;  1 D ), which is tubular in configuration. Fragrance carrier member  3  can be constructed of any material capable of absorbing and passively emitting the fragrance of an essential oil or other scented oil/liquid with which it is impregnated. Such known materials may include, without limitation, silicone, cotton, paper, wood, stone, ceramic, etc., or combinations thereof. 
     As seen best in  FIG.  1   , the fragrance carrier member  3  preferably has an interior diameter which corresponds to the outer diameter of the intermediate section  18 , and an outer diameter which is adapted to be telescopically received in slidable relation within the inner confines of the body member  1 . In fact, as shown in  FIGS.  1 B &amp;  1 D , the fragrance carrier  3  is constructed with an outside diameter which is just slightly less than the inside diameter of chamber  8  of the body member  1 . This creates a minor clearance between fragrance carrier  3  and tube  1  which accommodates for possible swelling of the fragrance carrier  3  when impregnated with a scent oil. Therefore, fragrance carrier  3  is designed to slide freely with piston  2  inside of tubular body  1  at all times without any significant interference with the inner wall of tubular member  1 . 
     Accordingly, the fragrance carrier member  3  is contained in an area  19  extending radially between the intermediate section  18  of piston  2  and the inner wall surface of chamber  8  of outer body member  1 . Axially, the fragrance carrier member  3  is held in place by end portion  16  and piston ring  12  of piston  2 . As such, the fragrance carrier member  3  is retained in the area  19  between opposing sealing lobes  13  and  17  formed in piston ring  12  and end portion  16 , respectively. Thus, when the fragrance diffuser is closed, the fragrance carrier member  3  is sealed atmospherically inside body member  1  from the outside environment. 
     As shown best in  FIG.  3   , axially inward from sealing lobe  17  and at the juncture between end portion  16  and intermediate section  18  of piston  2 , at least a portion of the circumference of end portion  16  is fluted with a plurality of axially extending open channels  20  which extend toward the open area  19  that surrounds the intermediate section  18  of piston  2 . As seen best in  FIG.  1   , when the fragrance diffuser is assembled, these channels  20  fluidly communicate with the open area  19  within which the fragrance carrier member  3  is contained and carried by the intermediate section  18  of piston  2 . 
     Accordingly, from a closed, deactivated position ( FIG.  1 E ), activating the fragrance diffuser may be accomplished by simply applying inward axial pressure upon end  14  of piston  2  thus causing piston  2  to slide axially within outer body  1 . Such movement has the effect of breaking the seal between end portion  16  of piston  2  and the outer tubular body  1 . When such seal is broken, the fragrance from the fragrance diffuser is permitted to flow from the contained space  19  within outer body  1 , through channels  20  formed in end portion  16  of piston  2 , and out to the surrounding atmosphere. Depending on how far inward end portion  15  of piston  2  is moved dictates how much of the axially extending channels  20  will be exposed to the atmosphere, and consequently how much fragrance is emitted to the surrounding environment. Thus, the amount and strength of the scent emitted by the fragrance diffuser may be effectively controlled through adjustment of the positioning of piston  2  within the outer body  1 . When the end  14  of piston  2  is pressed axially inward to a position substantially flush with the end  6  of outer body  1  ( FIG.  1 C ), the fragrance diffuser is constructed to be near or fully open with channels  20  having maximum exposure to the surrounding atmosphere. 
     The fluted section of end portion  16  with channels  20  also creates a barrier between the fragrance carrier material  3  and the outside environment. Therefore, there is no direct contact between the fragrance carrier material  3  and the skin/clothing of the person wearing the fragrance diffuser, or other article to which the fragrance diffuser is clipped. One can safely open and close the diffuser without concern of coming in direct contact with the fragrant oil. This allows the fragrance diffuser to be clipped virtually anywhere desired, either visibly on the exterior of a clothing article or on the inside, out of sight. By securing the fragrance diffuser to the inside on a person&#39;s clothing article, the body temperature of an individual can actually help heat the silicone/material of the fragrance carrier  3  and increase emission/evaporation of the scented oil, thus enhancing the release of fragrance. 
     It is noteworthy that the foregoing discussion describes the fragrance carrier member  3  as being carried by the piston  2  in movable relation to the outer body  1  of the fragrance diffuser. However, it is certainly conceivable that the fragrance carrier member  3  could be retained by the outer body member  1  in a stationary position relative to the sliding tubular member  2 , without departing from the scope of the invention herein. In either case, movement of the slidable piston  2  in one direction or the other will effectively open or close the sealed ends of the diffuser, thereby allowing emission of the fragrance through channels  20  to the surrounding atmosphere or sealing the same therefrom. 
     The fragrance carrier material  3  can be either pre-scented and used as a throwaway item, if desired, or it is contemplated that additional fragrant oil can be added to the fragrance carrier material  3  through the vented channel openings  20  formed on the end  16  of piston  2 . It may also be possible to form the fragrance carrier  3  as a replaceable item, such that the fragrance diffuser is reusable. Still further, the fragrance carrier  3  could be sold separately from the fragrance oil, thus allowing the user to self-infuse the fragrance carrier  3  prior to use with any of a variety of different fragrance oils, as desired. 
     To close and deactivate the fragrance diffuser, axial pressure may simply be applied to end  21  of piston  2 , thus causing movement of piston  2  from its open position shown in  FIG.  1 C  toward its closed position shown in  FIG.  1 E . As piston  2  progresses in this direction, channels  20  formed in end portion  16  of piston  2  become less exposed to the surrounding environment, and the fragrance begins to dissipate. Upon reaching full closure, as shown in  FIG.  1 E , both seal  13  on piston ring  12  and seal  17  on end portion  16  of piston  2  are perfected, thus closing off all fragrance from the surrounding environment. 
     As is evident from the drawings, the location of piston ring  12  upon piston  2  is instrumental in ensuring proper function and effective sealing of the fragrance diffuser upon closure. As seen best in  FIGS.  1 B &amp;  1 D , piston ring  12  is diametrically larger than the opening  4  in the outer body  1  of the fragrance diffuser. As shown, outer body  1  is formed at its end  6  with an inward protruding shoulder  11  which creates a travel-stop for piston ring  12 . As piston ring  12  approaches end  6  of the outer body  1 , it catches on shoulder  11  and is restricted from passing thereby. Shoulder  11  thus stops axial movement of piston ring  12 , and consequently piston  2 , precisely at the appropriate position to effect a proper seal against outer tubular body  1 . Additionally, restriction of movement of piston  2  by shoulder  11  helps prevent possible over-travel of piston  2  within body  1 , and consequent damage thereto. Accordingly, the location of piston ring  12  is determined and preset by design such that, upon closure of the fragrance diffuser ( FIG.  1 E ), both end portions  15  and  16  of piston  2  are sealed against the out tubular body  1  and over-travel of the piston  2  is prevented. This prevents the fragrance carrier member  3  contained within body  1  from emitting any gases into the surrounding environment upon closure of the device. 
     With reference now to  FIGS.  4 A- 4 G  of the drawings (hereinafter collectively “ FIG.  4   ”), an alternative embodiment of our new non-spray passive fragrance diffuser assembly is disclosed. The diffuser assembly  100  shown in the present embodiment is comprised of a generally rectangular or oval-shaped outer tubular body member  101  with inner telescopically slidable piston  102  which incorporates a fragrance carrier/diffusion member  103 . Similar to the embodiment of  FIGS.  1 - 3   , the outer tubular body member  101  has openings  104  and  105  formed in its opposite ends  106  and  107 , respectively, which communicate with a central body chamber  108  where the slidable piston  102  is carried. 
     As shown in  FIG.  4   , the piston  102  is longer than the outer tubular body  101  such that it always protrudes through at least one of the end openings  104  or  105  thereof, depending on how the slidable piston  102  is positioned within the outer body  101 . With this design, the inner piston  102  may be manually pushed in one direction (as shown in  FIGS.  4 C &amp;  4 D ) to activate/open the fragrance diffuser and permit fragrance to passively disperse into the surrounding environment. As shown in  FIG.  4 G  and described in further detail hereafter, pushing piston  102  in the opposite direction will cause the diffuser  100  to close as a sealed, contained unit. A friction fit of the piston  102  to the outer tubular body  101  adjacent ends  106  and  107  thereof prevents leakage of the fragrance when not in use. The simplicity of this design permits the device to be constructed in small compass as an accessory piece which may be clipped via an attachment member  109  to any piece of clothing or other personal article. 
     Similar to the previous embodiment, for sealing to occur between the outer tubular body  101  and inner piston  102 , the outer tubular body  101  of the diffuser  100  is formed of a relatively rigid material, such as stainless steel, aluminum or other suitably rigid metal or plastic material. In due part, the inner piston  102 , or at least the sealing portions thereof, should be formed of a material having some capacity for conformance to be capable of providing the required sealing function against the outer body member  101 . As previously discussed, such materials may include, without limitation, Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLPE), Low Density Polyethylene (LPE), Perfluoroalkoxy alkanes (PFA), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Urethanes, Thermoplastic Urethanes (TPU) and rubber materials. Other suitable known sealing materials are also readily available. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B , in the present embodiment, it can be seen that a gradual thickening of the walls of the outer tubular body  101  causes the inner chamber or passageway  108  extending therethrough to constrict or taper diametrically in size slightly from open end  107  to the opposite open end  106 . This can be seen in both  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B , where the wall thickness of body  101  is seen to be slightly greater adjacent open end  106  than open end  107 , thus causing the transverse dimensions of passageway  108  to constrict slightly as it progresses through tubular body  101 . 
     As further shown in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , the wall thickness of tubular member  101  immediately adjacent open end  107  is also thinner than the remaining section of the wall, thus creating a radially inward protruding shoulder  111 . As will be discussed hereafter and shown in  FIG.  4 G , shoulder  111  creates a stop for piston  102  within chamber  108 , which helps to facilitate proper sealed positioning of piston  102  when the fragrance diffuser is closed, and also prevents potential damage of piston  102  as a result of overtravel within body member  101 . 
     With reference now being had to  FIGS.  6 A- 6 D  of the drawings (hereinafter collectively “ FIG.  6   ”), the construction for piston  102  is shown in greater detail. As seen, piston  102  is an elongated member having opposite end portions  115  and  116 . As with the initial embodiment of  FIGS.  1 - 3   , for most effective and efficient operation of the present fragrance diffuser  100 , it is contemplated that piston  102  be greater in length than the outer tubular body  101  within which it is carried. If so, at least one of the end portions  115  and  116  of the slidable piston  102  will be visibly exposed and readily accessible at all times to the user. Thus, the user may easily activate and deactivate the fragrance diffuser  100 , and adjust the positioning of piston  102  within the tubular outer body  101 , by merely pushing the piston  102  in one direction or the other with one&#39;s fingers. 
     As shown further in  FIGS.  4  and  6   , end portion  115  of piston  102  is constructed with a generally rectangular or oval cross-sectional shape and dimensions closely approximating, but slightly less than, that of opening  104  in the outer tubular body member  101 . Accordingly, end portion  115  of piston  102 , which is aligned during assembly with opening  104  in tubular body member  101 , is permitted to move freely through opening  104  of body  101  upon axial pressure being applied to one of the opposite end portions  115  or  116  of piston  102 . 
     The opposite end portion  116  of piston  102  is also compliantly sized and shaped to slide in and out of the opening  105  formed in end  107  of outer body  101 . Since the opening  105  at end  107  of the tubular body  101  is slightly larger than the opening  104  at the opposite end opening  106 , the terminal end portion  116  of piston  102  is also slightly larger than end portion  115 . This helps to ensure that the piston member  102  is properly assembled and not inadvertently inserted backwards within the outer tubular body  101 . Here again, the cross-sectional or diametrical dimensions of end portion  116  of piston  102  are sized just slightly less than that of the inner wall surface of passageway  108  adjacent open end  107 , such that end portion  116  of piston  102  is permitted to move freely through opening  105  of body  101  upon axial pressure being applied to one of the opposite end portions  115  or  116  of piston  102 . 
     Importantly, as shown in  FIG.  6   , piston  102  constricts diametrically slightly at a point axially inward from the distal end  114  thereof, thus forming opposing lips  117 . Once assembled, lips  117  function as a stop or catch mechanism which engage shoulder  111  of the outer body  101  when the piston  102  is fully inserted to a closed position therein. As seen in  FIG.  4 G , when the fragrance diffuser is fully closed, shoulder  111  formed on the interior of tubular member  101  functions as a travel-stop limit for piston  102  to ensure that the piston is properly positioned in sealed relation to the outer tubular body  101 . Shoulder  111  also helps to prevent damage to the piston  102  and possibly to the tubular body  101  due to overtravel of one member relative to the other. 
     As further shown in  FIGS.  4  and  6   , to perfect a seal of piston  102  against the inner wall surface of chamber  108  and control movement thereof within the outer body  101 , the opposite end portions  115  and  116  of piston  102  are formed with radially outward protruding peripheral sealing members  112  and  113 , respectively. In the present embodiment, as seen in  FIG.  4 E , sealing member  112  is located just axially inward from the distal end  114  of the piston  102  and is correspondingly sized to seal circumferentially against the interior wall surface of chamber  108  near opening  105 . More specifically, sealing member  112  is comprised of at least one annular sealing lobe which extends circumferentially around the periphery of end portion  116 , where it functions to bear against the interior wall surface of chamber  108  and help effect a proper seal thereagainst when the diffuser  100  is deactivated and closed. 
     Similarly, at least one sealing member  113  in the form of an annular sealing lobe extends about the periphery of the opposite end portion  115  of piston  102 . As best shown in  FIG.  4 F , sealing member  113  is located axially inward from the distal end  123  of piston  102  a distance sufficient to ensure that end portion  115  of piston  102  remains sealed at all times through full movement of piston  102  within tubular body  101 . Therefore, as piston  102  moves between an open/activated position with end portion  116  pulled outward from within tubular body  101  ( FIG.  4 D ) and a fully closed/deactivated position with lips  117  of piston  2  engaging shoulder  111  of tubular body  101  ( FIG.  4 G ), end portion  115  of piston  102  will always remain sealed against the inner surface of chamber  108 . 
     Thus, upon full closure of the fragrance diffuser  100  ( FIG.  4 G ), end portion  116  of piston  102  is guided within opening  105  of tubular body  101  to a position where the lips  117  of piston  102  are in engagement with the shoulder  111  of the outer tubular body  101 . Once seated, sealing lobe  112  will bear firmly in sealing relation against the inner wall surface of chamber  108  of body  101 . Consequently, by pressing the end portion  116  of piston  102  axially inward within the confines of the outer body  101 , both end portions  115  and  116  of piston  102  are caused to seal against the inner wall surface of chamber  108 , thus sealing the entire intermediate section  118  of piston  102  from exposure to the outer atmosphere of the surrounding environment. 
     As best shown in  FIGS.  4  and  6   , the intermediate section  118  of piston  102  is adapted to hold and support the fragrance carrier member  103 . In the present embodiment, the intermediate section  118  of piston  102  includes an open pocket  119  formed by a framework of sides  120  and  121  extending between opposite end portions  115  and  116  of piston  102 . The fragrance carrier  103  is shown in the drawings in the form of a small pad or wafer ( FIG.  7   ), but many different configurations are conceivable without departing from the scope of the invention herein. Accordingly, the manner of retaining the fragrance carrier  103  within the confines of piston  102  may also vary without departing from the scope of the invention herein. Fragrance carrier member  103  can be constructed of any material capable of absorbing and passively emitting the fragrance of an essential oil or other scented oil/liquid with which it is impregnated. As noted previously, such known materials may include, without limitation, silicone, cotton, paper, wood, stone, ceramic, etc., or combinations thereof. 
     As seen best in  FIGS.  4  and  7   , the fragrance carrier member  103  is configured with dimensions corresponding to the interior pocket  119  of piston  102 , such that the fragrance carrier  103  is held in place by the surrounding framework, i.e., sides ( 120 , 121 ) and end portions ( 115 , 116 ). As shown best in  FIG.  4 C , fragrance carrier  103  is designed with a thickness corresponding to the surrounding framework of piston  102 , and just slightly less than the corresponding cross-sectional dimension of chamber  108  in body member  101 . This creates a minor clearance between fragrance carrier  103  and the inner wall surface of chamber  108  which accommodates for possible swelling of the fragrance carrier  103  when impregnated with a scent oil. Therefore, fragrance carrier  103  is designed to slide freely with piston  102  inside of tubular body  1  at all times without interference with the inner wall of tubular member  1 . 
     Accordingly, the fragrance carrier member  103  is contained laterally between the intermediate section  118  of piston  102  and the inner wall surface of chamber  108  of outer body member  101 . Axially, the fragrance carrier member  103  is held in place by end portions  115  and  116  of piston  102 . As such, the fragrance carrier member  103  is effectively retained between opposing sealing members  112  and  113  formed in piston  102  and the outer body  101  of the diffuser  100 . Thus, when the fragrance diffuser is closed, the fragrance carrier member  103  is sealed atmospherically inside body member  101  from the outside environment. 
     As shown best in  FIG.  6   , at the juncture between end portion  116  and intermediate section  118  of piston  102 , at least a portion of the circumference of end portion  116  includes a plurality of axially extending open channels  122  which extend toward the open pocket area  119  that is formed by the intermediate section  118  of piston  102 . As seen best in  FIG.  4   , when the fragrance diffuser  100  is assembled, these channels  122  fluidly communicate with the open area  119  within which the fragrance carrier member  103  is contained and carried by the intermediate section  118  of piston  102 . 
     Accordingly, as shown in  FIG.  4 B , activation of the fragrance diffuser may be accomplished by simply applying inward axial pressure upon end  123  of piston  102 , thus causing piston  102  to slide axially (upward in drawing) within outer body  101 . Such movement has the effect of breaking the seal (at member  112 ) between end portion  116  of piston  102  and the outer tubular body  101 . When such seal is broken, the fragrance from the diffuser  100  is permitted to flow passively from the contained space  119  within outer body  101 , through channels  122  formed in end portion  116  of piston  102 , and out to the surrounding atmosphere. Depending on how far inward end portion  115  of piston  102  is moved dictates how much of the axially extending channels  122  will be exposed to the atmosphere, and consequently how much fragrance is emitted to the surrounding environment. Thus, the amount and strength of the scent emitted by the fragrance diffuser may be effectively controlled through adjustment of the positioning of piston  102  within the outer body  101 . When the end  115  of piston  102  is pressed axially inward to a position substantially flush with the end  106  of outer body  101  ( FIGS.  4 A- 4 D ), the fragrance diffuser is constructed to be near or fully open with channels  122  having maximum exposure to the surrounding atmosphere. 
     The section of end portion  116  with channels  122  also creates a barrier between the fragrance carrier material  103  and the outside environment. Therefore, there is no direct contact between the fragrance carrier material  103  and the skin/clothing of the person wearing the fragrance diffuser  100 , or other article to which the fragrance diffuser  100  is clipped. One can safely open and close the diffuser  100  without concern of coming in direct contact with the fragrant oil. This allows the fragrance diffuser  100  to be clipped virtually anywhere desired, either visibly on the exterior of a clothing article or on the inside, out of sight. By securing the fragrance diffuser to the inside on a person&#39;s clothing article, the body temperature of an individual can actually help heat the silicone/material of the fragrance carrier  103  and increase emission/evaporation of the scented oil, thus enhancing the release of fragrance. 
     It is noteworthy that the foregoing discussion describes the fragrance carrier member  103  as being carried by the piston  102  in movable relation to the outer body  101  of the fragrance diffuser  100 . However, it is certainly conceivable that the fragrance carrier member  103  could be retained by the outer body member  101  in a stationary position relative to the sliding tubular member  102 , without departing from the scope of the invention herein. In either case, movement of the slidable piston  102  in one direction or the other will effectively open or close the sealed ends of diffuser  100 , thereby allowing emission of the fragrance through channels  122  to the surrounding atmosphere or sealing the same therefrom. 
     The fragrance carrier material  103  can be either pre-scented and used as a throwaway item, if desired, or it is contemplated that additional fragrant oil can be added to the fragrance carrier material  103  through the vented channel openings  122  formed on the end portion  116  of piston  102 . Since piston  102  is readily removable from the outer body  101  of the diffuser  100 , it is also possible to form the fragrance carrier  103  as a replaceable item, such that the fragrance diffuser  100  is reusable. Still further, the fragrance carrier  103  could be sold separately from the fragrance oil, thus allowing the user to self-infuse the fragrance carrier  103  prior to use with any of a variety of different fragrance oils, as desired. 
     To close and deactivate the fragrance diffuser, axial pressure may simply be applied to end  114  of piston  102 , thus causing movement of piston  102  back toward its closed position, shown in  FIG.  4 G . As piston  102  progresses in this direction, channels  122  formed in end portion  116  of piston  102  become less exposed to the ambient air of the surrounding environment, and the fragrance begins to dissipate. Upon reaching full closure, i.e., where lips  117  of piston  102  seat against shoulder  111  of tubular body  101 , both end seals  112  and  113  of piston  102  are perfected, thus closing off all fragrance from the surrounding environment. 
     Accordingly, the location of lips  117  on piston  102  and the shoulder  111  of tubular body  101  are determined and preset by design such that, upon closure of the fragrance diffuser, both end portions  115  and  116  of piston  102  are sealed against the out tubular body  101  and over-travel of the piston  102  is prevented. This prevents the fragrance carrier member  103  contained within body  101  from emitting any gases into the surrounding environment upon closure of the device. 
     With reference now being made to  FIG.  8   , it can be seen that a number of potential design configurations incorporating the principles of our invention are possible. Without limiting the scope of the invention herein, it can be seen that, in addition to a fragrance diffuser having a circular or rectangular/oval cross section configuration, as discussed above, diffusers with generally triangular and square cross sections are also conceivable. 
     Given the simplicity of the foregoing fragrance diffuser design, it is contemplated that the diffuser assembly may be constructed as a slow-emitting, low-cost, throw-away device which can be disposed of after the fragrance carrier member ( 3 , 103 ) becomes fully dissipated and ceases to emit the desired aroma. On the other hand, it is also readily conceivable the compartment or area ( 19 , 119 ) defined by the intermediate section ( 18 , 118 ) of piston ( 2 , 102 ) could be made accessible for insertion of a new replacement fragrance carrier member ( 3 , 103 ), or be constructed as a re-fillable chamber capable of being refilled with any desired fragrance oil or essential oil of the user&#39;s choice. Still further, the fragrance carrier ( 3 , 103 ) could be sold separately from the fragrance oil, thus allowing the user to self-infuse the fragrance carrier ( 3 , 103 ) prior to use with any of a variety of different fragrance oils, as desired. Regardless of the manner in which the above fragrance diffuser is used, the simplicity and compact nature of its design renders the device suitable for use as a long-lasting, passive, fragrance diffuser which is highly versatile for personal use in a multiplicity of circumstances and different environments, and which may be readily activated and deactivated with ease, as desired. 
     Certain terminology is used herein for purposes of reference only, and thus is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “above”, “below”, “top”, “bottom”, “upward”, “downward”, “rearward”, and “forward” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “bottom” and “side”, describe the orientation of portions of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the component under discussion. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second” and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. 
     When introducing elements or features and the exemplary embodiments, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of such elements or features. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements or features other than those specifically noted. It is further to be understood that the method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed. 
     The disclosure herein is intended to be merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, which comprises the matter shown and described herein, and set forth in the appended claims.