Patent Publication Number: US-8540121-B2

Title: Dispensing actuator with flip-open lid

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This invention relates to a dispensing actuator for dispensing a fluent substance or product. The invention is more particularly related to a dispensing actuator that is especially suitable for a hand-held container and that has a flip-open lid that can be opened and closed. Notably, the dispensing actuator includes an actuating element positioned beneath the flip-open lid of the dispensing actuator, which arrangement prevents inadvertent actuation, but permits one-handed operation for the convenience of the user. The actuating element can be operated by downward deflection to operate a dispensing valve of the container, to thereby dispense product from the container through a dispensing orifice of the dispensing actuator. In one form, the orifice directs product generally laterally of the dispensing actuator, while in further embodiments, the dispensing orifice can be provided in the actuating element itself, so that product is dispensed generally upwardly of the dispensing actuator. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND TECHNICAL PROBLEMS POSED BY THE PRIOR ART 
     Finger-operable dispensers are typically adapted to be incorporated in dispensing systems mounted on handheld containers that are commonly used for fluent substances or products. Some dispensers are designed for use with a valve assembly, and have a suitable discharge structure to produce a foam, mousse, or atomized spray. A dispensing system comprising such a valve assembly and cooperating dispenser is typically used for dispensing cosmetic products or other personal care products such as hairspray, deodorant or antiperspirant, body sprays, etc., as well as institutional, industrial, and household products. 
     Dispensing systems comprising a valve assembly and cooperating dispenser are typically mounted at the top of the associated container, such as a metal can containing a pressurized product. The dispenser typically includes an external actuating element that is operatively connected to the valve assembly, and that provides a dispensing orifice from which the product can be dispensed to a target area. 
     For some applications, it can be desirable to provide a dispensing actuator which facilitates push-button or like actuation of the valve assembly of the associated container. While convenient use is thus facilitated, at the same time, it is desirable to prevent inadvertent actuation and dispensing, and thus the provision of a removable lid or cover, to shield the push-button from inadvertent actuation, can be desirable. 
     To facilitate convenient use of dispensing actuators for use on associated containers, it is known to provide such dispensing actuator constructions with flip-open lids, typically provided as an integral portion of the dispensing actuator, such as by the provision of a unitary, living hinge or the like. Such arrangements desirably preclude the need for a separate lid or cover which can inadvertently be lost or otherwise separated from the remainder of the dispensing actuator structure. 
     More recently, efforts have been made to provide such flip-open lid dispensing actuators with push-button actuation, by which simple manipulation of a button on the dispensing actuator urges the flip-open lid from a closed position to an open position. Such arrangements can be particularly desirable, such as for hair care or other personal care products, since a container can be easily grasped in one hand, and the push-button of the dispensing actuator actuated to open the flip-open lid, and thus facilitate convenient dispensing of the contents of the container. 
     Notably, the present invention is directed to a dispensing actuator for use on a container having a dispensing valve assembly, with the present dispensing actuator desirably configured to permit push-button opening of a flip-open lid of the dispensing actuator, and subsequent actuation of the valve assembly of the container for convenient dispensing of the container&#39;s contents. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with the present invention, an improved dispensing actuator is provided for a container that has a dispensing valve (either a separate valve or a pump that defines, or functions as, a valve) through which the contents of the container can be conveniently dispensed by one-handed operation. The dispensing actuator includes a flip-open lid, a push-button opening element which can be manipulated to open the lid, and an inner actuating element which operates the dispensing valve of the container. After the lid is opened by manipulation of the opening element, the actuating element can be downwardly deflected to operate the valve and dispense product from the container. In certain disclosed embodiments, the actuating element is manipulated by finger pressure thereon to operate the dispensing valve, while in an alternate embodiment, the actuating element is configured for engagement by the opening element, so that continued pressure on the opening element after it opens the dispensing actuator lid results in downward deflection of the actuating element for dispensing product. 
     A dispensing actuator embodying the principles of the present invention is configured for use with an associated container having a dispensing valve for dispensing a fluent product. In accordance with the presently preferred embodiments, the dispensing valve includes an outwardly projecting, moveable, product-dispensing valve stem that is normally biased from an actuated, open dispensing position to a closed position. Valve stem movement to open the valve may be axially of the valve stem, generally inwardly of the container, or generally angular movement—depending on the valve type or design. 
     In a typical embodiment, the associated container includes an annular shoulder, and a mounting cup secured to the annular shoulder, with the dispensing valve mounted on the mounting cup. Typically, the contents of the container are pressurized, so that movement of the valve stem acts to dispense the pressurized contents of the container. 
     In accordance with the illustrated embodiments, the present dispensing actuator includes a dispensing actuator base for extending from the container at the dispensing valve thereof. A presently preferred form of the dispensing actuator base includes (1) a deck, and (2) a skirt depending from the deck. 
     The present dispensing actuator further includes a flip-open lid configured for movement between: (1) a closed position, and (2) an opened position to permit dispensing of the substance from the associated container. Preferably, the lid includes a hinge for connecting the lid to the dispensing actuator base. 
     Convenient manipulation of the lid of the dispensing actuator is facilitated by the provision of an opening element mounted on the dispensing actuator base for generally lateral movement with respect thereto from a closed position to an opened position. The opening element is engageable with the lid of the dispensing actuator, so that generally lateral movement of the opening element from its closed position to the opened position moves the lid from the closed position thereof to the opened position thereof. 
     In accordance with the present invention, the present dispensing actuator further includes an actuating element mounted on, or otherwise connected with, the dispensing actuator base. If the actuator base has a deck, the actuating element may be disposed generally adjacent to the deck. The actuating element is accessible when the lid of the dispensing actuator is in its opened position. The actuating element is preferably formed unitarily, as one-piece, with the dispensing actuator base, but is resiliently movable or deflectable for effecting operation of the dispensing valve of the associated container. In particular, the actuating element is configured to be downwardly deflectable, with such downward deflecting movement of the actuating element operating the dispensing valve for opening the valve, to thereby permit dispensing of the fluent substance within the container through a dispensing orifice defined by the dispensing actuator. 
     In accordance with the illustrated embodiments, the opening element of the present dispensing actuator includes a proximal, button portion configured for manipulation to urge the opening element from the closed position toward the opened position thereof. The opening element includes at least one distal, pusher portion generally opposite the proximal portion of the opening element. The distal pusher portion is preferably engageable with the lid hinge of the dispensing actuator as the opening element moves from its closed position to its opened position, to thereby move the lid from its closed position to the opened position thereof. The opening element is preferably positioned generally beneath the deck of the dispensing actuator base. 
     In the illustrated embodiments, the actuating element of the dispensing actuator is mounted on the dispensing actuator base by a hinge region which provides deflectable, generally hinging movement of the actuating element about in axis which is generally parallel to the hinging axis of the lid of the dispensing actuator. 
     In one illustrated embodiment, the dispensing actuator base defines an internal passageway that communicates with the dispensing orifice of the dispensing actuator, and that can be joined in fluid communication with the stem of the dispensing valve. By this arrangement, actuation of the dispensing valve by deflection of the actuating element permits the pressurized fluent product within the container to flow through the valve stem, and into the passageway for dispensing out of the dispensing orifice. 
     In this embodiment, the passageway extends generally at a right angle to an axis defined by the product-dispensing stem of the dispensing valve, such that product is dispensed generally laterally of the dispensing actuator. To this end, the hinge for the dispensing actuator lid includes a pair of spaced-apart hinge elements, with the dispensing orifice being positioned on the dispensing actuator base to direct the substance being dispensed generally between the hinge elements. In this embodiment, the opening element of the dispensing actuator has a generally bifurcated configuration, extending generally along opposite sides of the internal passageway, with a pair of distal pusher portions respectively engageable with the pair of spaced-apart hinge elements. 
     In alternate illustrated embodiments, the actuating element of the dispensing actuator includes the dispensing orifice, with the actuating element defining a valve stem pocket communicating with the dispensing orifice. The product-dispensing valve stem is positionable in the pocket when the dispensing actuator is fitted to the associated container, so that downward deflection of the actuating element acts to move the valve stem, and thereby dispense the fluent product within the container through the actuating element. In these embodiments, the substance is dispensed generally upwardly of the dispensing actuator. 
     In one embodiment, the actuating element defines a finger pad for manipulation to downwardly deflect the actuating element for dispensing the product. In an alternate embodiment, the actuating element defines a cam surface engageable by the opening element of the dispensing actuator as the opening element is moved from its closed position toward the opened position thereof. By this action, the opening element cooperates with the actuating element to downwardly deflect the actuating element, and thereby dispense product, again, generally upwardly through the actuating element. Thus, opening of the dispensing actuator lid, and dispensing of product, can be effected without the user repositioning their finger from the opening element to the actuating element. 
     The dispensing actuator components can be designed for easily accommodating the assembly of the components during manufacture of the dispensing actuator. 
     The dispensing actuator can be provided with a design that accommodates efficient, high quality, large volume manufacturing techniques with a reduced product reject rate. 
     The dispensing actuator can optionally be designed to accommodate its use with a variety of conventional or special containers having a variety of conventional or special container finishes, including conventional threaded, or snap-fit, attachment configurations. 
     Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention, from the claims, and from the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the accompanying drawings forming part of the specification, in which like numerals are employed to designate like parts throughout the same, 
         FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a dispensing actuator embodying the principles of the present invention, with a flip-open lid of the dispensing actuator shown in an opened position; 
         FIG. 2  is a further isometric view of the present dispensing actuator, shown from the opposite side thereof, with the flip-open lid of the dispensing actuator shown in a closed position; 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded, isometric view of the present dispensing actuator, shown in association with a dispensing valve and the mounting cup of an associated container (not illustrated); 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view of the present dispensing actuator, shown with the dispensing valve and mounting cup of  FIG. 3  in position on an associated container; 
         FIG. 4A  is a top plan view of the present dispensing actuator, showing the lid thereof in a closed position; 
         FIG. 4B  is a cross-sectional view of the present dispensing actuator taken along line B-B of  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 4C  is a top plan view of the present dispensing actuator similar to  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 4D  is a cross-sectional view of the present dispensing actuator taken along line D-D of  FIG. 4C ; 
         FIG. 4E  is a relatively enlarged, fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the region  4 E- 4 E in  FIG. 4D ; 
         FIG. 5  is an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, with a flip-open lid thereof shown in an opened position; 
         FIG. 6  is a further isometric view of this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, shown from the opposite side thereof; 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded, isometric view of this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator shown in association with a dispensing valve and mounting cup of an associated container (not illustrated); 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view of this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, with the flip-open lid thereof shown in a closed position prior to installation of the dispensing actuator on the dispensing valve and mounting cup of a container; 
         FIG. 9  is an isometric view of a further alternate embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, shown with a flip-open lid thereof in an opened position; 
         FIG. 10  is an isometric view of this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, shown from an opposite side thereof; 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded, isometric view of this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator shown in association with a dispensing valve and mounting cup of an associated container (not illustrated); and 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view of this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, showing the flip-open lid thereof in a closed position prior to installation of the dispensing actuator on the dispensing valve and mounting cup of a container. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, this specification and the accompanying drawings disclose specific forms as examples of the invention. The invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments so described, however. The scope of the invention is pointed out in the appended claims. 
     For ease of description, many of the figures illustrating the invention show the dispensing actuator as including a separate, removable, dispensing actuator in the typical orientation that the dispensing actuator would have at the top of a container when the container is stored upright on its base, and terms such as upper, lower, horizontal, etc., are used with reference to this position. It will be understood, however, that the dispensing actuator of this invention may be manufactured, stored, transported, used, and sold in an orientation other than the orientations described. 
     The dispensing actuator of this invention is suitable for use with a variety of conventional or special fluent product dispensing systems, including packages, articles, and other dispensing equipment or apparatus, the details of which, although not fully illustrated or described, would be apparent to those having skill in the art and an understanding of such fluent product dispensing systems. Such a fluent product dispensing system, or portion thereof, with which the inventive dispensing actuator cooperates is hereinafter simply referred to as a “container.” The particular container, per se, that is illustrated and described herein forms no part of, and therefore is not intended to limit, the present invention. It will also be understood by those of ordinary skill that novel and non-obvious inventive aspects are embodied in the described exemplary dispensing actuator system alone. 
     While the present dispensing actuator has been disclosed in association with a dispensing valve of a container having pressurized contents, it will be understood that the present actuator can readily be configured for operation of a valve stem of an associated dispensing pump. For such an application, the present actuator can be configured to provide sufficient, downwardly deflectable movement of an actuating element of the dispensing actuator to permit dispensing actuation of the associated pump. Thus, reference herein to an outwardly projecting, movable, product-dispensing stem of a dispensing valve will be understood to include reference to the product-dispensing stem of a dispensing pump, which may incorporate a valve. 
     The Dispensing Actuator on a Container 
     A first embodiment of a dispensing actuator of the present invention is illustrated in the figures and is designated generally therein by reference number  20  in  FIG. 1 . In the embodiment illustrated, the dispensing actuator  20  is provided in the form of a separate dispensing actuator  20  which is adapted to be mounted or installed on a container  22  that would typically contain a fluent substance or product (see  FIG. 4 ). 
     With particular reference to  FIG. 4 , the container  22  for which the present dispensing actuator is particular configured, includes a typically metallic side wall  23  which terminates in a rolled annular shoulder  25 . The container further includes a mounting cup  27  fitted to the shoulder  25  with an aerosol dispensing valve  29  provided in the mounting cup  27 . 
     The aerosol dispensing valve  29  may be of any suitable conventional or special type, with or without an associated dip tube (not shown) extending downwardly into the container. One conventional type of valve  29  is the vertical style, wherein the valve opens when the upper part of the valve is pushed inwardly (e.g., downwardly in  FIG. 4 ) in accordance with the illustrated embodiment. Another conventional type of valve opens when an upper part of the valve is pushed so as to tilt the upper part of the valve relative to the mounting cup. The present invention can be adapted to function with either type of dispensing valve. 
     As illustrated, the dispensing valve  29  includes a valve body  31  that defines an interior chamber which has a bottom end that is open through a passage in the body  31  to the pressurized contents of the container  22 . The container  22  typically holds a liquid product, or other fluent substance or product, which is pressurized by a propellant gas. 
     A compression coil spring  31 B is disposed in the valve body  31 , with an upwardly extending, product-dispensing valve stem  33  normally biased upwardly to the top of the valve body chamber by the spring. The valve body  31  defines suitable flow passages which extend from the bottom portion of the valve body and alongside the lower part of the valve stem  33 . A gasket  31 A is retained by the mounting cup  27  at the upper end of the valve body  31 . The valve stem  33  includes a lateral inlet that is normally sealed closed by the gasket  31 A and that communicates with a vertical internal outlet passage. 
     When the valve stem  33  is moved downwardly by operation of the associated dispensing actuator  20 , as will be further described in detail, the valve stem  33  moves away from the gasket  31 A, which becomes disengaged from its seated sealing relationship with the valve stem, and the pressurized fluent product can flow from the interior of the container  22  through the above-described passages of the valve body and valve stem. When the valve stem  33  is allowed to return to its elevated, closed position, under the influence of the biasing spring  31 B, the flow passages are occluded by the gasket  31 A, and the flow stops. As will be appreciated, the particular dispensing valve  29  (with or without a dip tube or suction tube, not shown) may be of any suitable design for dispensing a product from the container  22  and out through the valve stem  33 . Thus, it will be understood that the dispensing actuator of the present invention is particularly configured for use with a dispensing valve having an outwardly projecting, moveable, product-dispensing valve stem that is normally biased from an actuated, opened dispensing position to a closed position. 
     While the illustrated dispensing valve is configured for operation by generally vertical, downward movements of the valve stem, generally inwardly toward the container  22  it will be understood that a dispensing actuator embodying the principles of the present invention can be readily configured for use with a container having a dispensing valve which operates by generally pivotal, angular movement of the valve stem, as known in the art. 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 1 to 4E , features of the present dispensing actuator  20  will now be described. 
     The General Arrangement of the Dispensing Actuator Components 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 4 , the presently most preferred form of the dispensing actuator  20  includes four basic components: (1) a unitary molded dispensing actuator body or base  30 ; (2) a lid  32 , having a hinge  34  connecting the lid  32  to the base  30 ; (3) an opening element  36  that is slidable in the base  30 ; and (4) a movable or deflectable actuating element  38  unitarily mounted on, or connected with, the base  30 . The opening element  36  may also be described as a “button,” or a “sliding body” or a “slider.” 
     In the preferred form of the embodiment of the invention, the lid  32  is provided to be closed over, and cover, the upper part of the dispensing actuator base  30 , and to cover and enclose the actuating element  38  to prevent inadvertent actuation. The lid  32  can be moved to expose the actuating element  38  for dispensing. The lid  32  is movable between (1) a closed position over the base  30  and actuating element (as shown in FIGS.  2  and  4 A- 4 D), and (2) an open position permitting access to the actuating element  38  (as show in  FIGS. 1 ,  3 , and  4 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the lid  32  is hinged to the base  30  so as to accommodate pivoting movement of the lid  32  between the closed position and the open position. 
     The Structure and Operation of the Components 
     In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the lid  32  may be characterized as including the hinge  34  which is connected to the dispensing actuator base  30 . The hinge  34  is of the conventional snap-action type that may be conveniently molded from a suitable thermoplastic material to include two spaced-apart hinge portions  34 A in the form of offset connecting spring links, and a film hinge  34 B provided on the lid  32 . One end of each link  34 A is connected to the remaining portion of the lid  32  via a reduced thickness film hinge, and the other end is connected to the dispensing actuator base  30  via a reduced thickness film hinge. 
     The above-described snap-action hinge structure permits the lid  32  to be moved between the opened and closed positions because the links  34 A deform elastically through a dead center position at which the links  34 A are maximally deformed. On either side of the dead center position, the deformation of the links  34 A is at least partly reduced, and the lid  32  is thus urged to a stable position at the end of its travel range on that side of the dead center position. Thus, when the lid  32  is in the closed position ( FIG. 2 ), it is self-maintained in the closed position. On the other hand, when the lid  32  is open ( FIGS. 1 ,  3 , and  4 ), it is self-maintained in that position to accommodate dispensing of the contents without having to use one&#39;s fingers to hold the lid  32  out of the way. As will be noted, the lid  32  is arranged to move from a generally horizontal, closed position, to a generally vertical, opened position. Thus, the opened lid does not interfere with product being dispensed from the dispensing actuator generally between spring links  34 A, as will be described. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the base  30  includes a generally annular deck having a pair of spaced-apart, deck portions  40  ( FIG. 3 ). A skirt  42  extends downwardly on the dispensing actuator base  30  depending from the deck as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 3 . As can be seen in  FIG. 4 , an internal collar or internal skirt  44  is located within the skirt  42 , and the collar  44  extends downwardly for engaging the container shoulder  25  when the dispensing actuator base  30  is mounted on the container  22  as shown in  FIG. 4 . The interior of the internal collar  44 , is configured for snap-fit retention of the dispensing actuator on the shoulder  25  of container  22 . Alternatively, the dispensing actuator base internal collar  44  could be provided with some other container connecting means, or could instead be permanently attached to the container  22  by suitable means. 
     While dispensing actuator base  30  has been illustrated as including a skirt  42 , it will be understood that the provision of such a skirt can be optional, for decorative purposes. Thus, the dispensing actuator base can be configured without a skirt, per se, but with some other suitable mounting structure to facilitate fitment to an associated container. 
     The dispensing actuator base collar  44  may have any suitable configuration for accommodating the upwardly projecting shoulder  25  of the container  22  or for accommodating any other portion of a container received within the particular configuration of the dispensing actuator base internal collar  44 —even if a container does not have a shoulder, per se. The main part of the container  22  may have a different cross-sectional shape than the container shoulder and dispensing actuator base internal collar  44 . The dispensing actuator base internal collar  44  may be adapted for mounting to other types of fluent substance handling container systems (e.g., including dispensing apparatus, machines, or equipment). In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the container neck receiving passage in the dispensing actuator base internal collar  44  has a generally cylindrical configuration, but includes an inwardly projecting bead  44 A ( FIG. 4 ) for snap-fit retention of the container  22 . 
     As noted, convenient manipulation of lid  32  from its closed position to its opened position is effected by sliding, push-button movement of opening element  36  generally laterally of dispensing actuator base  30 . In this embodiment, as best illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the opening element  36  has a generally bifurcated configuration, and includes a proximal, button portion  37 , and a pair of distal pusher portions  37 A generally opposite the proximal portion  37 . The pusher portions  37 A are respectively engageable with the spaced-apart hinge portions (i.e., spring links)  34 A of lid  32 . Thus, when the slider element  36  is in its first, closed position the hinged lid  32  can be positioned in its downward position, covering actuating element  38 . When the opening element  36  is pushed generally inwardly of the dispensing actuator base  30  (to the left, referring to the orientation of  FIGS. 4 and 4B ), the pusher portions  37 A respectively engage the hinge portions  34 A thereby urging the lid  32  from its closed position to its opened position, with the action of the spring links urging the lid to its fully opened position as it goes “over center”. Lid  32  is preferably provided with a pair of hook-like retention elements  32 A, which are respectively engageable beneath the deck portions  40 , acting to maintain the lid in a fully closed position (see  FIGS. 4D and 4E ). The lid  32  can be manipulated to this fully closed position, from its generally closed position, by downward finger pressure on the exterior of the lid. 
     The opening element  36  is positioned generally between the deck portions  40  of the dispensing actuator base  30  and extends inwardly of skirt  42  for lateral, sliding movement with respect thereto. The opening element  36  is retained in position within the dispensing actuator base  30  generally by the disposition of proximal portion  37 , and distal pusher portions  37 A, on generally upwardly facing surfaces  39 ,  39 A of the dispensing actuator base  30  (see  FIG. 4B ). After molding of the separate components, the components can be readily assembled so that the opening element  36  is retained in operative association with the dispensing actuator base  30 , and the assembly applied to an associated container. 
     While in the illustrated embodiment opening element  36  has been configured for generally linear, lateral movement, a dispensing actuator embodying the principles disclosed herein can be configured to include an opening element for otherwise effecting opening of the associated hinged lid, such as by linear, angular, twisting, or vertical movement of the opening element, as well as by combinations thereof. 
     In accordance with the present invention, selective actuation of the dispensing valve  29 , for dispensing the fluent product within the associated contained  22 , is effected by downward, resilient movement or deflection of the actuating element  38  with respect to the container  22 , thereby moving valve stem  33  downwardly for actuation of the valve assembly, and dispensing a product. To this end, the actuating element  38  functions generally in the nature of a cantilevered beam, and is joined to the skirt  42  of the dispensing actuator base by a hinge region provided generally at that portion of the dispensing actuator base at which spring links  34 A and hinge  34 B are joined to the base. By this construction, the actuating element  38  is formed unitarily, i.e., as one piece, with the dispensing actuator base and thus its actuation is effected by generally flexing or deformation of the dispensing actuator base in the region of the hinge  34 . The actuating element  38  is thus mounted for deflectable, generally hinging movement about an axis which is generally parallel to the hinging axis of the lid  32  of the dispensing actuator. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the actuating element  38  defines a valve stem pocket  50  for receiving the valve stem  33  of dispensing valve  29  in substantially fluid-type sealing engagement therewith. As illustrated, the actuating element  38  of the dispensing actuator base further defines an internal passageway  52  that communicates with the valve stem pocket  50 , and that can be joined in communication with the valve stem  33  in the valve stem pocket  50 , so that upon actuation of the dispensing valve by deflection of the actuating element, the fluent product from with container  22  flows through the valve stem  33 , and into the passageway  52  for dispensing of the product. 
     The product is dispensed from dispensing actuator  20  through a dispensing orifice  54  of the dispensing actuator. In this embodiment, the dispensing orifice  54  is provided in the form of a conventional mechanical break-up unit (MBU), which is fitted to the dispensing actuator base so that the dispensing orifice is joined in fluid communication with the passageway  52 . Notably, the MBU is specially configured so that flow into the unit is by way of an annular passage, joined with passageway  52 , with the MBU including suitable mechanical features to induce swirling, atomized spray of the fluent product being dispensed by the dispensing actuator. The MBU may be of any suitable conventional or special design, the details of which form no part of the present invention. 
     In this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, the product is dispensed generally laterally of the dispensing actuator. To this end, the dispensing actuator preferably includes a hinge  34  configured to accommodate such lateral dispensing. In particular, the dispensing orifice  54  is positioned on the dispensing actuator base to direct the product being dispensed generally between the spaced-apart hinge elements i.e., spring links  34 A. As will be appreciated, the bifurcated configuration of the opening element  36 , including a pair of distal pusher portions  37 A, accommodates this disposition and orientation of the dispensing orifice  54 . The passageway  52  extends generally at a right angle to an axis defined by the product-dispensing stem  33 , with downward, deflecting movement of the actuating element  38  thereby dispensing product generally at a right angle to, and laterally of, such downward movement, with the pusher portions  37 A of opening element  36  generally positioned on respective opposite sides of the passageway  52 . 
     From the foregoing description, operation of the dispensing actuator  20  will be readily appreciated. When fitted on the associated container  22 , the dispensing actuator  20  receives the valve stem  33  within the valve stem pocket  50  in sealing relationship therewith. The dispensing actuator is securely retained in position on the container by the snap-fit of internal collar  44  on shoulder  25 . 
     Lid  32  of the dispensing actuator is maintained in its closed position by engagement of retention elements  32 A with the deck portions  40  of the dispensing actuator base  30 . In this position of the lid, the actuating element  38  is shielded from inadvertent actuation, and thus the dispensing actuator container can be conveniently stored, handled, and shipped without inadvertent dispensing of the contents of the container. 
     Dispensing of the container&#39;s contents can be effected by grasping the container, and laterally pressing the proximal, button portion  37  of the opening element  36 , urging the opening element laterally from its closed position toward its open position. Attendant to the sliding movement, the proximal, pusher portions  37 A respectively act against the spring links  34 A of the dispensing actuator hinge  34  thus urging the lid  32  towards its open position, in opposition to the spring links. By this action, the retention elements  32 A are disengaged from the deck portions  40 , and the lid is urged through its over-center position to its fully open position, such as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     The actuating element  38  of the dispensing actuator  20  is now exposed for convenient manipulation, and dispensing of the contents of the container. By downward deflection of the actuating element, the valve stem  33  is urged downwardly in opposition to the biasing spring  31 B of the dispensing valve  29 , and under the influence of the propellant within the container, the container&#39;s contents move upwardly through the dispensing valve body  31 , and the valve stem  33 . The fluent product thus flows into the dispensing actuator passageway  52 , and is forcefully expelled through the dispensing orifice  54  defined by the mechanical break-up unit, with the dispensed product thus directed between the spring links  34 A of the dispensing actuator hinge. As will be observed, the lid  32  is mounted in a fashion so that the lid does not interfere with the spray pattern of the dispensed product. As will be appreciated, manipulation of the dispensing actuator, including manipulation of the opening element  36 , and depression of the actuating element  38 , can be readily effected with one hand, as the container is grasped by a user. 
     After the desired quantity of product has been dispensed, the actuating element  38  is released, with its resilient nature resulting in generally upward movement of the actuating element. Such upward movement is further effected by the biasing spring  31 B within the valve body  31  acting against the valve stem  33 . Flow from within the container  22  is discontinued. The user can then conveniently move the lid  32  from its opened position to its closed position, whereupon retention elements  32 A again respectively engage deck portions  40  to releaseably maintain the lid  32  in its closed position, and thus shield the actuating element  38  against inadvertent actuation. 
     Movement of lid  32  from its opened position to its closed position acts to move opening element  36  from its opened position back to its initial closed position as spring links  34 A act against pusher portions  37 A. As will be appreciated, the present dispensing actuator  20  can be opened, actuated, and subsequently closed, all by one-handed operation. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 5 to 8 , therein is illustrated an alternate embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, designated  120 , with elements like those in the previously-described embodiment identified by like reference numerals in the one-hundred series. 
     As in the previously described embodiment, dispensing actuator  120  can be configured for snap-fit securement to an associated container, such as container  22 , for dispensing the pressurized contents of the container. As in the previous embodiment, dispensing actuator  120  includes a lid which is selectively moveable between opened and closed positions, and an actuating element which is accessible for actuation and dispensing of the container&#39;s contents when the lid is in an opened position. Push-button actuation of the lid facilitates convenient use by consumers. In distinction from the previous embodiment, wherein the contents of the container are dispensed generally laterally of the dispensing actuator, in this embodiment, the container&#39;s contents are dispensed generally upwardly, through a dispensing orifice provided in the dispensing actuator actuating element. Depending upon the specific application, this embodiment can be used when it is desirable to permit dispensing by inverting the dispensing actuator and container, and dispensing a product in a downward direction, such as for dispensing a hair care product. 
     In further reference to  FIGS. 5 to 8 , the dispensing actuator  120  illustrated therein includes a dispensing actuator base  130 , a hingedly movable dispensing actuator lid  132 , including a hinge  134 , and a laterally moveable opening element  136  positioned generally within the dispensing actuator base  130 . As in the previous embodiment, push-button actuation of the opening element  136 , from a closed position to an opened position, acts to move lid  132  from its closed position to its opened position, with an over-center hinging movement. 
     The hinge  134  of dispensing actuator  120  differs from the previous embodiments, in that in this embodiment, a single spring link  134 A is provided, operatively positioned between a pair of spaced-apart film hinges  134 B. The lid may be provided with one or more hook-like retention elements  132 A for cooperation with the actuating element  138  for releaseably retaining the lid  132  in its closed position. In the preferred embodiment, the opening element  136  defines a cam surface  137 B engageable with the lid  132  in the closed position thereof, when the opening element  136  is moved from the closed position thereof toward the open position thereof. 
     Selective opening of the lid  132  is effected by lateral, sliding movement of opening element of  136 . In distinction from the previous embodiment, opening element  136  has a generally ringed-shaped configuration (see  FIG. 7 ), and includes a proximal, button portion  137  configured for manipulation to urge the opening element from its closed position towards its opened position. As illustrated, the opening element  136  includes a distal, pusher portion  137 A, generally opposite the proximal portion  137 , with the pusher portion engageable with the spring link  134 A of hinge  134  as the opening element moves from its closed position to its opened position, to thereby move the lid  132  from its closed position toward the opened position thereof. By the provision of the cam surface  137 B, the cam surface acts to urge the lid  132  from the closed position toward the opened position thereof prior to engagement of the pusher portion  136 A with the lid  132 . This initial movement of the lid by the cam surface  137 B acts to unsnap and disengage the hook-like retention element  132 A. 
     The dispensing actuator base  130  includes a deck including a pair of deck portions  140 , with a skirt  142  depending downwardly from the deck. The dispensing actuator  120  may optionally include an internal collar for snap-fit securement of the dispensing actuator  120  to an associated container such as including the illustrated mounting cup  27  having a dispensing valve including a valve stem  33 . 
     In accordance with the present invention, the dispensing actuator  120  includes a resiliently moveable, downwardly deflectable actuating element  138  provided on the dispensing actuator base  130  generally adjacent to the deck thereof. The actuating element  138  is accessible when the lid  132  is in its opened position, with the actuating element being resiliently deflectable, so that downward, deflecting movement of the actuating element operates the valve stem  33  of the dispensing valve to thereby permit dispensing of the fluent product within the associated container. 
     As in the previous embodiment, the actuating element  138  is generally configured in the nature of a cantilevered beam, for deflecting or hinging movement at a hinge region that can be provided by a thinned portion  138 B ( FIG. 8 ), generally adjacent hinge  134  of the dispensing actuator. The actuating element is thus moveable about an axis which is generally parallel to a hinging axis of the lid  132  provided by hinge  134 . 
     In order to permit dispensing of the pressurized product from the associated container, the actuating element  138  defines a valve stem pocket  150  for receiving the valve stem  33  of the associated dispensing valve. Notably, in distinction from the previous embodiment, the dispensing orifice of this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator is provided in the actuating element itself, that is, the dispensing orifice  154  is provided in the actuating element  138 , so that the contents of the associated container are dispensed generally upwardly (rather than generally laterally) of the dispensing actuator and container. Although not illustrated, a mechanical break-up unit (MBU) such as the MBU  54  shown in the previous embodiment, can be provided on actuating element  138  to define the desired dispensing orifice. 
     Thus, the valve stem pocket  150  is in communication with the dispensing orifice  154 , as illustrated in  FIG. 8 , so that downward, deflecting movement of the actuating element  138  acts to open the dispensing valve, and permit the flow of pressurized product from within the container and through the dispensing orifice. 
     Operation of this embodiment of the present invention is generally like that of the previously described embodiment. By selective manipulation of the opening element  136  from its closed position toward its opened position, the lid  132  is hingedly moved relative to the dispensing actuator base from its closed position to its over-center opened position. The actuating element  138  is thus uncovered, with the actuating element including a figure pad  138 A ( FIG. 5 ), generally between orifice  154  and the free end of the actuating element, which facilitates finger activation and manipulation of the actuating element to downwardly deflect the actuating element for dispensing the associated product. When dispensing is complete, the lid of the dispensing actuator can be moved back to its closed position, which movement acts against the opening element  136  to move it to its initial, closed position. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 9 to 12 , therein is illustrated a further, alternate embodiment of the dispensing actuator of the present invention, designated  220 . Elements of this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator that generally correspond to those elements of the previous embodiments are designated by like reference numerals in the two-hundred series. Like the previous embodiment, this embodiment of the present dispensing actuator is configured to dispense the pressurized contents of an associated container generally upwardly of the dispensing actuator, and to this end an actuating element of the dispensing actuator includes a dispensing orifice through which the contents are dispensed. In distinction from the previous embodiment, the actuating element of this embodiment includes a cam surface engageable by a opening element of the dispensing actuator assembly, which thus permits downward deflection of the actuating element to be effected by continued finger pressure on the opening element, after the opening element is initially moved to open the lid of the dispensing actuator. The dispensing actuator thus functions with a sequential opening/dispensing action 
     The dispensing actuator  220  includes a dispensing actuator base  230 , which can be configured for snap-fit securement to an associated container, such as including a mounting cup  27  and a valve stem  33  of an associated dispensing valve. The dispensing actuator  220  further includes a hingedly moveable lid  232 , hingedly joined to the dispensing actuator base  230  by a hinge  234  of the lid. In this embodiment, the hinge  234  includes a single spring link  234 A and a pair of spaced-apart hinged elements  234 B. For releasably retaining the lid in its closed position, the lid  232  can include at least one retention element  232 A which cooperates with the actuating element  238 . In the preferred form, the opening element  236  defines a cam surface  237 B engageable with the lid  232  in the closed position thereof for initially moving the lid out of its closed position. 
     Operation of the dispensing actuator is effected by the provision of a generally laterally moveable opening element  236 , which in this embodiment has a generally ring-shaped configuration (see  FIG. 11 ). The opening element  236  includes a proximal, button portion  237 , and a distal, pusher portion  237 A, positioned generally opposite the proximal portion  237 . The pusher portion  237 A is engageable with the spring link  234 A of the hinge  234 , whereby lateral sliding movement of the opening element  236  from its closed position toward its open position acts to move the lid  232  from its closed position to its over-center opened position. By the action of cam surface  237 B on the lid  232 , the cam surface acts to initially move the lid from its fully closed position, and disengage the retention element  232 A from the actuating element  238 , prior to pusher portion  237 A acting on spring link  234 A to open the lid. As will be appreciated, there can be some engagement of the opening element with the cam surface  238 C as the pusher portion  237 A acts to open the lid, but such downward movement of the actuating element is not sufficient to actuate the associated dispensing valve. 
     The dispensing actuator base  230  includes a deck including deck portions  240  and a depending annular skirt  242  depending from the deck of the dispensing actuator base. The opening element  236  is positioned generally within the dispensing actuator base beneath the deck thereof. 
     With reference to  FIG. 12 , the actuating element  238  functions generally in the nature of a cantilevered beam, and is generally hingedly moveable about a hinge region that can be provided by a thinned portion  238 B ( FIG. 12 ), generally adjacent hinge  234  of the dispensing actuator, so that the actuating element is hingedly moveable about an axis which is generally parallel to the axis about which lid  232  moves relative to dispensing actuator base  230 . 
     The actuating element  238  defines a valve stem pocket  250  which receives the valve stem  33  of the valve of the associated container. The actuating element  238  further includes a dispensing orifice  254  which communicates with the valve stem pocket  250 . Downward deflection of the actuating element acts against the valve stem to open the associated dispensing valve, whereby the contents of the associated container are dispensed generally upwardly through the actuating element, out of the a dispensing orifice  254 . If desired, a mechanical break-up unit (MBU) can be provided on the actuating element to define the dispensing orifice. 
     Downward deflection of the actuating element  238  is effected by the provision of a cam surface  238 C which extends generally from the deflectable, free end of the actuating element  238 . The cam surface  238 C is engageable by the inside surface of the proximal portion  237  of the opening element  236 , as the opening element is moved from its closed position into its opened position. By this lateral sliding movement, the lid  232  is first moved from its closed position to its opened position, with continued pressure on proximal portion  237  urging the opening element  236  laterally, whereby engagement with actuating element cam surface  238 C is effected, to thereby move and deflect the actuating element  238  downwardly for operation of the associated dispensing valve. As in the previous embodiment, the contents of the container are thus dispensed generally upwardly of the dispensing actuator, through the dispensing orifice  254 . 
     While the present dispensing actuator has been shown in a configuration for operative connection with an outwardly projecting valve stem of an associated dispensing valve, the present actuator can be configured, such as by the provision of a downwardly deflectable conduit, for operation of a female dispensing valve, which has no outwardly extending valve stem. 
     In one illustrated embodiment of the present dispensing actuator, the dispensing orifice of the actuator is uncovered, even before the lid of the actuator is opened for subsequent dispensing of the contents of the associated container. In alternate embodiments, the dispensing orifice of the actuator is covered by the lid of the actuator until the lid is opened, and the actuator operated for dispensing the container&#39;s contents. It will thus be appreciated that a dispensing orifice of the dispensing actuator embodying the principles of the present invention can be either uncovered or covered, prior to opening and use of the actuator. 
     It will be readily observed from the foregoing detailed description of the invention and from the illustrated embodiments thereof that numerous other variations and modifications may be effected without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concepts or principles of this invention.