Patent Description:
Systems for delivering volatile materials to the atmosphere are well known in the art, and include for example, insect repellants, air fresheners, malodor removal agents. Such systems function by evaporating a volatile material through a medium such as a permeable membrane into a space to deliver a variety of benefits such as air freshening or malodor removal or a combination thereof. Typically, the volatile composition is stored in a sealed container that is opened or punctured to release the volatile composition to the air.

<CIT> (hereinafter, "<CIT>") describes a disposable air freshener dispenser device having a push-button actuator which can be manually operated to initiate the dispensing of air freshener composition into the atmosphere. The device of <CIT> has an air freshener medium within a container, and a push button actuator which can be manually operated to rupture a foil covering the container for initiating the dispensing of the air freshener into the atmosphere. A problem associated with such devices is that it is difficult for a user (such as a consumer) to determine whether the air freshener device is activated until the consumer smells the air freshener composition. As a result, if the consumer does not smell the air freshener composition, the consumer may consider that the device is not activated or is malfunctioning and this leads to reduced consumer satisfaction. Another problem of the prior art device is it is not easily detected by other users (such as retail store owners) whether such devices have been tampered with or inadvertently activated during handling or transportation to the retail stores. This may result in defective air freshener devices being displayed for sale which inevitably lead to consumer complaints when consumers purchase a defective air freshener device.

<CIT> describes an air treating device having a liquid reservoir, a base positioned below the liquid reservoir supporting and surrounding a liquid absorbent material, and a mechanism for attaching the liquid reservoir to the base. A piercing pin extends upwardly from the base and absorbent material such that the pin is in direct alignment with an opening in the liquid reservoir. When the piercing pin is moved upwardly towards the opening in the liquid reservoir, it will penetrate the opening allowing liquid to escape from the liquid reservoir and onto the liquid absorbent material. Further, a liquid metering control mechanism is provided which surrounds the pin an is positioned between the opening in the reservoir and the absorbent material such that the liquid metering control mechanism is able to provide a rate of dispersion of the liquid from the reservoir which is substantially even over an extended period of time. Although setting such a dispersion rate is straightforward by inserting the pin into the opening of the liquid reservoir, the pin will however pierce through a membrane or the like positioned inside the opening. Due to the shape of the pin, it will not be possible to start with a high dispersion rate, and then later continue with a lower dispersion rate due to the fact that the pin created a certain sized hole in the opening of the liquid container. One is only able to set an even higher dispersion rate, rather than a lower one.

<CIT> discloses a device for dispensing volatile materials such as fragrances into the area surrounding such a device. Release of fragrances from a volatilization zone in such a device is promoted by the generation of heat via the non-combustive oxidation reaction of thermogenic materials held within a heating zone in the device. Both the volatilization zone and the heating zone are provided with hermetic sealing means which, prior to the activation of the device, keep the contents of the volatilization and heating zones separate from each other and from the surrounding atmosphere. Such sealing means can be ruptured to expose the thermogenic materials to the air to then initiate the heat generation and to expose the volatilization zone to the surrounding atmosphere to thereby release the fragrances therefrom. However, once the hermetic sealing is broken, intentionally or otherwise, the contents of the volatilization and heating zones are no longer separated and the heat generation is activated for the duration of the existence of the components. Once the reaction and thus the generation of heat has ended, the device will no longer emit the fragrances into the area surrounding the device, although there may still be fragrances inside the device.

<CIT> describes a device for dispensing aa active volatile liquid such as a fragrance into the surrounding space. The device comprises an liquid, a reservoir holding the liquid, a wick/emanator superstructure composed of a wick part and an emitting part, the latter having an evaporative surface to be directly exposed to the surrounding space when the device is activated and being housed in a moveable housing assembly. The activation of the device occurs without the need to remove the housing assembly and/or the wick and emanating part. However, when a user tries to activate the dispenser, the housing of the dispenser is deformed, which seems to indicate that the device is in use. However, this is not necessarily the case as the activation part is not necessarily inserted far enough, thus in fact not activating the dispenser, while the user, from the exterior of the device will assume it is activated.

Therefore, there exists a need for an apparatus for delivering a volatile material that can be manually operated and provides a signal to users indicating activation of the apparatus at the same time.

In order to address the above-identified needs, the present invention provides a volatile composition dispenser comprising:.

By having the second protrusion on the button configured to engage and move past the first protrusion on the inner wall after activation of the button, the advantage is the second protrusion on the button cannot return to the first position. As a result, the button is retained in a depressed position, and the difference in positions of the button along the longitudinal axis or a vertical direction gives the user a visual signal that the dispenser is activated.

While the specification concludes with the claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:.

The present invention relates to a volatile composition dispenser for the delivery of a volatile material to the atmosphere. The dispenser is suitable for purposes of providing fragrances, air fresheners, deodorizers, odor eliminators, malodor counteractants, insecticides, insect repellants, medicinal substances, disinfectants, sanitizers, mood enhancers, aromatherapy aids, or for any other purpose using a volatile material or a volatile composition that acts to condition, modify, or otherwise change the atmosphere or the environment. For the purposes of illustrating the present invention in detail, but without intending to limit the scope of the invention, the invention will be described in a volatile composition dispenser for delivering a liquid composition containing perfume, perfume ingredients and or perfume raw materials.

<FIG> shows a front perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser <NUM>(hereinafter "dispenser") according to the present invention and <FIG> shows a rear perspective view of the dispenser <NUM>. The dispenser <NUM> comprises a housing <NUM> having a front cover <NUM> and a rear frame <NUM>, the front cover <NUM> and the rear frame <NUM> defining an interior space. The rear frame <NUM> is provided with a frame opening <NUM> (hereinafter "opening") located substantially in the centre of the rear frame <NUM>. A push button <NUM> (hereinafter "button") is disposed within the opening <NUM> and is movable with respect to the rear frame <NUM> for enabling a user to activate the dispenser <NUM>. A cartridge <NUM> containing a volatile composition <NUM> is located within the housing <NUM>.

<FIG> shows internal components of the dispenser <NUM>. The front cover <NUM> comprises a window <NUM> configured for displaying the cartridge <NUM>. The cartridge <NUM> comprises a container <NUM> having an orifice <NUM>, within which the volatile composition <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) is stored. A rupturable substrate <NUM> is sealably attached to and covers the orifice <NUM> defining a reservoir to prevent the volatile composition <NUM> from being released until the dispenser <NUM> is activated. The rupturable substrate <NUM> may be ruptured to release the volatile composition <NUM> by actuating a rupture mechanism <NUM> positioned adjacent to the rupturable substrate <NUM>. The rupture mechanism <NUM> comprises a movable member <NUM> movably attached to an outer frame <NUM> by a resilient member <NUM>. The resilient member <NUM> may be formed of one or more springs <NUM>. One or more rupture elements <NUM> are arranged within the rupture mechanism <NUM> to puncture holes in the rupturable substrate <NUM>. The rupture element <NUM> may be a pin. The cartridge <NUM> may comprise a membrane <NUM> located on the exterior of the cartridge <NUM>. The membrane <NUM> may be sealably attached to a flange <NUM> located at a periphery <NUM> of the container <NUM>. The membrane <NUM> encloses the container <NUM>, the volatile composition <NUM>, the rupturable substrate <NUM>, and the rupture mechanism <NUM>. The membrane <NUM> may be configured to flex when a pressure or an actuation force is applied on the membrane <NUM>.

To activate the dispenser <NUM>, a user depresses the button <NUM> until it makes contact with the rupture mechanism <NUM> (through the membrane <NUM>), and the pins <NUM> on the rupture mechanism <NUM> pierce the rupturable substrate <NUM>. Once the rupturable substrate <NUM> is pierced, the volatile composition <NUM> flows out of the container <NUM>, wets the membrane <NUM> and is then delivered to the atmosphere surroundings through evaporation from the membrane <NUM>.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the button <NUM> and the rear frame <NUM> are configured to enable efficient and controlled rupturing of the rupturable substrate <NUM> in the cartridge <NUM> while additionally providing a tactile and intuitive user experience to the user for activating the dispenser <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a side section view A-A of the rear frame <NUM>. An inner wall <NUM> is provided at a periphery <NUM> of the opening <NUM> and extends into the housing <NUM> from the interior of the rear frame <NUM>. The inner wall <NUM> has a proximal end <NUM> flush with the periphery <NUM> of the opening <NUM>, and a distal end <NUM> protruding into the housing <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the inner wall <NUM> is solid and tubular in shape. However, the inner wall <NUM> may take some other shape such as for example a square cross section or a rectangular cross section. The inner wall <NUM> may be substantially cylindrical and comprise a continuous wall, or a segmented wall such as for example, a lattice structure or multiple elongate struts connected to one another. The inner wall <NUM> may define an extension of the opening <NUM> into the housing <NUM> with a central longitudinal axis <NUM> running through the centre of the opening <NUM> and along which the button <NUM> can be depressed. Alternatively, the inner wall <NUM> may protrude out of the housing <NUM> such that the inner wall <NUM> defines an extension of the opening <NUM> out of the housing <NUM>. Accordingly, the distal end <NUM> may be flush with the periphery <NUM> of the opening <NUM> and the proximal end <NUM> may protrude out of the housing <NUM>.

<FIG> is a front section view of the button <NUM> configured to fit and to move within the opening <NUM> of the rear frame <NUM>. The button <NUM> comprises a top <NUM> and a button body <NUM> extending from the top <NUM> into the housing <NUM>. In an embodiment, the top <NUM> is located in line with the periphery <NUM> of the opening <NUM> when the button <NUM> is in an "at rest" position (see for example <FIG>). Alternatively, the top <NUM> of the button <NUM> may protrude out of the opening <NUM> when "at rest" (see for example. The button body <NUM> extends substantially in parallel to the inner wall <NUM>. Therefore the button body <NUM> may also have a tubular shape. One or more protrusions <NUM> extend from the button body <NUM> to define snap fits for assembling the button <NUM> to the inner wall <NUM>.

Further, the dispenser <NUM> comprises an interlocking mechanism for preventing motion of the button <NUM> with respect to the rear frame <NUM> after activation of the dispenser <NUM>. For example, the interlocking mechanism may comprise a snap-fit or interlocking joint. In embodiments, the interlocking mechanism may comprise structural features integral with the button <NUM> or the inner wall <NUM> such as hooks or protrusions on the button <NUM> which, after depression of the button, engage with corresponding undercuts, detents, protrusions, or openings in the inner wall <NUM> to lock the button <NUM> to the inner wall <NUM>. In this way, the button <NUM> may not be released from the post-activation position without forced failure of the interlocking mechanism or the joint.

The interlocking mechanism may comprise at least one protrusion <NUM>, <NUM> located on each of the inner wall <NUM> and the button body <NUM>, aligned with one another such that they make contact as the button <NUM> is depressed. As shown in <FIG>, the first protrusion <NUM> may be located at the distal end <NUM> of the inner wall <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, a second protrusion <NUM> may be located proximate a distal end <NUM> of the button body <NUM>. The first protrusion <NUM> and the second protrusion <NUM> may be generally elongate and extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the opening <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic drawing of the button <NUM> mounted within the rear frame <NUM> wherein the button <NUM> is in a "at rest" position. <FIG> are schematic drawings depicting the movement of the button <NUM> between the "at rest" position to a post-activation position. The button <NUM> is configured to move linearly with respect to the rear frame <NUM>, i.e. a straight push button that moves in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the frame opening <NUM> upon depression of the button <NUM>. Only the inner wall <NUM> and the button body <NUM> are shown to better illustrate the arrangement and movement of the button <NUM> relative to the inner wall <NUM>.

The first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged within a gap <NUM> between the button body <NUM> and the inner wall <NUM> and are aligned to engage with one another in the plane generally parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the frame opening <NUM>. The size of the gap <NUM> may be uniform and constant along the longitudinal direction (length) of the button body <NUM>. The gap <NUM> may comprise a first gap width (W1) between respective bases <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM>. Specifically, W1 is less than a sum of a depth (D1) of the first protrusion <NUM> relative to the inner wall <NUM> and a depth (D2) of the second protrusion <NUM> relative to the button body <NUM>, and may be represented by the following formula: <MAT>.

The first gap width, W1 is configured to enable the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> to be engaged while enabling free movement of the button <NUM> prior to locking of the button <NUM> within the rear frame <NUM>. The protrusion depth, D1 of the first protrusion <NUM> may be in the range of <NUM>% to <NUM>% of a width, W2 of the inner wall <NUM>. The protrusion depth D2 of the second protrusion <NUM> may be in the range of <NUM>% to <NUM>% of a width, W3 of the button body <NUM>. An advantage of the above ranges of the protrusion depth D1 of the first protrusion <NUM> and the protrusion depth D2 of the second protrusion <NUM> is to enable the user to receive a tactile feedback which provides a perception to the user that the dispenser is activated.

Referring to <FIG>, at least one of the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> may be asymmetrical along its length, with a first surface <NUM>, <NUM> facing the other of the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> (when in a rest position) and a second surface <NUM>, <NUM> facing away from the other of the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM>. In an embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, a tip <NUM> is positioned between the first surface <NUM> and the second surface <NUM> of the first protrusion <NUM>. The second protrusion <NUM> may have a symmetrical, or substantially symmetrical, form with, for example, a tip <NUM> for engaging the first surface <NUM> of the first protrusion <NUM>.

In the at rest position (<FIG>), the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> are spaced apart such as for example, the distal end <NUM> of the button body <NUM> may be proximal to the distal end <NUM> of the inner wall <NUM>. Upon activation of the dispenser <NUM> through a force F applied on the button <NUM>, the button <NUM> is depressed and, as the button <NUM> moves relative to the inner wall <NUM>, the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> make contact (as shown in <FIG>) through engagement of the tip <NUM> of the second protrusion <NUM> with the first surface <NUM> of the first protrusion <NUM>. The first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> move past one another until the second protrusion <NUM> (on the button body <NUM>) is proximal to the distal end <NUM> of the inner wall <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). The second protrusion <NUM> is below the first protrusion <NUM> in a vertical direction parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM>. Alternatively, the second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> may be adjacent to each other in the post activation position.

<FIG> are schematic drawings showing variations in the geometry of the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> for locking the button <NUM> to the rear frame <NUM> upon depression of the button <NUM>. An angle <NUM>, <NUM> of the first surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> and an angle <NUM>, <NUM> of the second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> relative to respectively the inner wall <NUM> or button body <NUM> may be different.

Further, for example as shown in <FIG>, the angle <NUM> of the first surface <NUM> relative to the inner wall <NUM> may be greater than the angle <NUM> of the second surface <NUM> relative to the inner wall <NUM>. The angle <NUM>, <NUM> of the first surface <NUM>, <NUM> of one or both of the first or second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°, whereas the angle <NUM>, <NUM> of the second surface <NUM>, <NUM> of one or both of the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> is between <NUM>°and <NUM>°.

By providing an obtuse angle for the angle <NUM>, <NUM> of the first surface <NUM>, <NUM>, it is easier for the two protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> to pass one another during activation, whereas the more acute angle for the angle <NUM>, <NUM> of the second surface <NUM>, <NUM> makes it difficult for the protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> to pass after activation. Therefore, once the button <NUM> has been depressed and the protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> move past one another, the button <NUM> is prevented from returning to its original position.

Alternatively, as shown in <FIG>, only one of the protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> has an assymetrical form, whereas the other protrusion <NUM>, <NUM> may have a symmetrical, or substantially symmetrical, form with, for example, a rounded tip.

Further, referring to <FIG>, at least the second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of both the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> may have corresponding angles relative respectively to the inner wall <NUM> and button body <NUM> such that following activation, the protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> lock together. For example, the angle <NUM>, <NUM> of the second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of both the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°.

The different angles of the first surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, and second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> result in the button body <NUM> flexing and snapping into place after the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> have moved past one another thereby providing the user with a clear intuitive signal (and preferably an audible click).

Depending on an elastic property of either one of the first protrusion <NUM> or the second protrusion <NUM>, one of the first protrusion <NUM> and the second protrusion <NUM> may be configured to deflect to enable the second protrusion <NUM> to move past the first protrusion <NUM> into a second position as shown in <FIG>. Further, the second protrusion <NUM> of the button <NUM> may be configured to be rigid to transmit the force exerted by the user on the button <NUM> to rupture the rupturable substrate <NUM> in the cartridge <NUM>. Still further, the second protrusion <NUM> may be configured to be resilient to generate a clicking sound when the second protrusion <NUM> contacts the first protrusion <NUM> after it moves past the first protrusion <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the button body <NUM> may be formed of a plurality of flexible wall sections <NUM> wherein the second protrusion <NUM> is disposed on a flexible wall section <NUM>. The flexible wall sections <NUM> are configured to flex by forming channels <NUM> in the button body <NUM> adjacent to the second protrusions <NUM>. Each channel <NUM> may comprise a length L1 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM> and configured to make the wall section <NUM> flexible for ease of activation. At least one channel <NUM> may define a substantially U-shape. Another advantage of having the second protrusions <NUM> disposed on the flexible wall sections <NUM> is that to avoid plastic deformations on the first protrusions <NUM> and the second protrusions <NUM>. Further, upon activation of the button <NUM>, the flexing of the flexible wall sections <NUM> to contact the inner wall <NUM> generates a click sound and a tactile feeling is provided to the user thereby providing audible and tactile signals at the same time indicating that the dispenser <NUM> is activated.

Referring to <FIG>, the first protrusion <NUM> may be a continuous lip extending circumferentially around the inner wall <NUM> wherein the second protrusion <NUM> of the button <NUM> is aligned for engaging and moving past the first protrusion <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> are configured for a straight push button within a rear frame. However, it will be appreciated that alternative designs and arrangements of the first protrusion <NUM> and the second protrusion <NUM> to enable a lockable button may be configured depending on a desired actuation of a button <NUM> within a rear frame <NUM>. Such alternative designs will be described later in the following description with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the rear frame <NUM> of <FIG> (partially shown), <FIG> is a perspective view of the button <NUM> and <FIG> is a bottom view of the button <NUM>. The first protrusion <NUM> or the second protrusion <NUM> may be generally elongate and extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the frame opening <NUM>. Each of the second protrusions <NUM> may comprise a length, L2 and each of the first protrusions <NUM> may comprise a length, L3. Each of the lengths L2 and L3 may be in the range of <NUM>% to <NUM>% of a length (L4) of the button <NUM>.

One or more second protrusions <NUM> may be disposed on a cam guide <NUM> for engaging the one or more first protrusions <NUM> during rotation of the button <NUM>. The first protrusions <NUM> are disposed at the distal end <NUM> of the inner wall <NUM> wherein the first protrusion <NUM> is aligned for engaging the cam guide <NUM> of the button body <NUM>. The cam guide <NUM> may comprise a plurality of first cam tracks <NUM> formed on the button body <NUM>. The first cam tracks <NUM> are radially spaced apart on the button body <NUM> for engaging the first protrusions <NUM> on the distal end <NUM> of the inner wall <NUM>. The cam guide <NUM> may further comprise a plurality of second cam tracks <NUM> intermediate the first cam tracks <NUM>.

A cam angle α of the cam guide <NUM> may be configured to obtain a desired button stroke S (mm) and a rotation angle β of the button <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> and/or the cylindrical axis <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The desired button stroke may be a distance to be travelled by the button <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the opening <NUM> in order to cause the rupture elements <NUM> of the rupture mechanism <NUM> to puncture the substrate <NUM>.

By having the cam guide <NUM> and the first protrusion <NUM> cooperating to move the button <NUM> axially along and rotate about the longitudinal axis <NUM> in a clockwise or an anti-clockwise direction, the top <NUM> of the button <NUM> may have different orientations with respect to the rear frame <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

Specifically, the second cam tracks <NUM> extend radially outward from and spaced circumferentially on the button body <NUM> and arranged to engage mating cam track <NUM> formed on the inner wall <NUM> upon insertion of the button <NUM> in the inner wall <NUM>. In an embodiment, each second cam track <NUM> and a mating cam track <NUM> may be configured to correspond in shape or profile to the first step <NUM> so as to define a continuous cam profile for rotation of the button <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> and axial movement of the button <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM>.

Further, the second cam tracks <NUM> and the mating cam tracks <NUM> may be configured to allow the button <NUM> to be arranged within the frame <NUM> at a height relative to the distal end <NUM> of the inner wall <NUM>. The height may be varied so that upon assembly, the button <NUM> may be either flush with the periphery <NUM> of the opening <NUM> in the first position (as shown in <FIG>) or extending above the periphery <NUM> of the opening <NUM> in the first position (as shown in <FIG>).

In embodiments, such as shown in <FIG>, indicia <NUM> may be disposed on the top <NUM> of the button <NUM> to provide a signal to a user of the dispenser <NUM>. For example, referring to <FIG>, the indicia <NUM> may include a graphical representation like hands of a clock to show the button <NUM> in one orientation relative to the periphery of the opening in the first position and in a different orientation in the second position. Alternatively, referring to <FIG>, the indicia <NUM> may be a graphical symbol indicating a position for actuating the button <NUM> or activating the dispenser <NUM>.

<FIG> is a partial perspective view of the button <NUM> mounted within the rear frame <NUM> wherein the button <NUM> is in a "at rest" position. <FIG> are cross-sectional views depicting the movement of the button <NUM> between the "at rest" position to a post-activation position.

In <FIG>, as no force is being applied to the button <NUM>, the button <NUM> is in the rest position ("first position"). In the first position, a first protrusion <NUM> (shown in broken lines) engages the cam guide <NUM> (broken lines on the button body <NUM>) and is aligned with the distal end <NUM> of the button <NUM>. Upon activation of the dispenser, the button <NUM> is moved into the housing (<NUM>) and, as the first protrusion <NUM> and the cam guide <NUM> engage throughout the movement of the button <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), the button <NUM> rotates and moves axially along the longitudinal axis <NUM> until the distal end <NUM> of the button <NUM> extends into the housing <NUM> of <FIG> and is spaced apart from and below the distal end <NUM> of the inner wall <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). In an embodiment, the distal end <NUM> of the button <NUM> may be below the first protrusion <NUM> in a vertical direction parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM>. To ensure that the button <NUM> is maintained in the post-activation position of <FIG>, L2 is greater than L3. Still further, L3 may be in the range of <NUM>% to <NUM>% of L2.

<FIG> is an interior section view of the first protrusions <NUM> and the second protrusions <NUM> when the button <NUM> is in the rest position before activation and corresponds to <FIG>. <FIG> is a detailed view of <FIG> show the first protrusions <NUM> and the second protrusions <NUM> when the button <NUM> is in the post-activation position after activation. As the button <NUM> is configured to be axially movable along the longitudinal axis <NUM> and rotatable about the longitudinal axis <NUM> with respect to the rear frame <NUM>, the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> may be radially and axially spaced apart about the longitudinal axis <NUM> and arranged within the gap <NUM> between the button body <NUM> and the inner wall <NUM> to allow for locking of the button <NUM> upon activation.

As shown in <FIG>, the button body <NUM> comprises a stepped outer surface <NUM> configured to mate with a stepped inner surface <NUM> of the inner wall <NUM> for slidable movement of the button <NUM> within the rear frame opening <NUM> and arranged to form variable gap widths including the first gap width W1 and a second gap width W4 within the gap <NUM>. In the first position as shown in <FIG>, the second protrusion <NUM> is radially spaced apart from the first protrusion <NUM> and is aligned to engage with and move past the first protrusion <NUM> in a radial direction <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM>.

The number of first protrusions <NUM> on the inner wall <NUM> and the number of second protrusions <NUM> on the button <NUM> may be equivalent and varied according to a diameter or width of the button body <NUM>. In an example, such as shown in <FIG>, three first protrusions <NUM> are disposed on and spaced circumferentially on the inner wall <NUM> and a corresponding number of second protrusions <NUM> are disposed on and spaced circumferentially on the button body <NUM>. In an embodiment, the dispenser <NUM> may further comprise a third protrusion <NUM> disposed within the gap <NUM> for preventing free movement of the button <NUM> in the at rest position. The third protrusion <NUM> may be integral with the first protrusion <NUM> as shown in FIG.

In the embodiments shown, the inner wall <NUM>, the first protrusion <NUM> and the frame <NUM> may be molded and form a unitary unit and may comprise plastic for ease of manufacturing. Similarly, the second protrusion <NUM>, the cam guide <NUM> and the button <NUM> may also be molded and form a unitary plastic component. Alternatively, the button <NUM>, and the frame <NUM> and the first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise sheet metal, such as spring steel, and may be stamped or milled to form a unitary metal component.

The volatile composition dispenser <NUM> may comprise a small form factor such as a form factor similar to a computer mouse so as for ergonomic fit in the hand of the user and ease of use. In embodiments, physical specifications of the inner wall <NUM>, the button <NUM>, the first and second protrusion <NUM>, and the cam guide <NUM> may be configured based on a specified button stroke S (millimeters) and/or a specified rotation angle β (degrees) of the button <NUM> relative to the longitudinal axis <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, Table <NUM> sets out physical specifications of the inner wall <NUM>, the button <NUM>, the protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> and the cam guide <NUM> based on a button stroke S of <NUM> and a rotation angle β of <NUM> degrees. A correlation between a button stroke S and a rotation angle β, S/β may be <NUM>/degree. Therefore, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the arts that the present invention is not limited to the physical specifications of Table <NUM>. Specifically, the physical specifications may be modified based on a desired button stroke or button rotation angle using the correlation of S/β = <NUM>/degree. Further, the physical specifications may be modified by using a ratio of the cam angle, α to the button rotation angle, β being <NUM>.

The internal components of the cartridge <NUM> as shown in <FIG> may be characterized as follows. For example, dimensions of the container <NUM> may be configured to hold about <NUM> to about <NUM> of a liquid volatile composition. Alternatively, the reservoir <NUM> may hold about <NUM> to about <NUM>, alternatively about <NUM> to about <NUM>, alternatively about <NUM> to about <NUM>, alternatively about <NUM> to about <NUM>, alternatively about <NUM>, alternatively about <NUM> of a liquid volatile composition. Further, a shape of the container <NUM> may be configured to correspond to a shape of the opening <NUM> of the front cover <NUM>. For example, the container <NUM> may define a substantially elliptical or oval shape and its width to length ratio may be about <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>.

The rupturable substrate <NUM> can be made of any material that ruptures with applied force, with or without the presence of an element to aid in such rupture. Because the rupturable substrate <NUM> is intended to contain a volatile material while in storage, it may be made from any barrier material that prevents evaporation of the volatile material prior to its intended use. Such materials may be impermeable to vapors and liquids. Suitable barrier materials for the rupturable substrate <NUM> include a flexible film, such as a polymeric film, a flexible foil, or a composite material such as foil/polymeric film laminate. Suitable flexible foils include a metal foil such as a foil comprised of a nitrocellulose protective lacquer, a <NUM> micron aluminum foil, a polyurethane primer, and <NUM>/m2 polyethylene coating (Lidfoil <NUM>-<NUM>), available from Alcan Packaging. Suitable polymeric films include polyethylene terephtalate (PET) films, acrylonitrile copolymer barrier films such as those sold under the tradename Barex® by INOES, ethylene vinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof. It is also contemplated that coated barrier films may be utilized as a rupturable substrate <NUM>. Such coated barrier films include metallized PET, metalized polypropylene, silica or alumina coated film may be used. Any barrier material, whether coated or uncoated, may be used alone and or in combination with other barrier materials.

The rupture element <NUM> can be injection, compression, or pressure molded using a polyolefin, such as polyethylene or polypropylene; polyester; or other plastics known to be suitable for molding. The rupture element <NUM> could also be made by thermoforming with a discrete cutting step to remove parts not wanted.

The membrane <NUM> may have an average pore size of about <NUM> to about <NUM> microns, alternatively from about <NUM> to about <NUM> microns, alternatively about <NUM> to about <NUM> microns, alternatively about <NUM> to about <NUM> microns, alternatively about <NUM> to about <NUM> microns, alternatively about <NUM> microns. Further, the membrane <NUM> may be filled with any suitable filler and plasticizer known in the art. Fillers may include finely divided silica, clays, zeolites, carbonates, charcoals, and mixtures thereof. The microporous membrane <NUM> may be filled with about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, by total weight, of silica, alternatively about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, alternatively about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, alternatively about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%. A thickness of the membrane <NUM> may be about <NUM> to about <NUM>, alternatively between about <NUM> to <NUM>, alternatively about <NUM> to about <NUM>, alternatively about <NUM>.

Still further, an evaporative surface area of the microporous membrane <NUM> may be about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM> to about <NUM><NUM>, alternatively about <NUM><NUM>. Accordingly, the rear frame <NUM> may be sized and shaped to fit the evaporative surface area of the membrane <NUM>.

Suitable microporous membranes for the present invention include a microporous, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) optionally filled with silica as described in <CIT>. Such UHMWPE microporous membranes include Daramic™ V5, available from Daramic, Solupor®, available from DSM (Netherlands), and Teslin™, available from PPG Industries, and combinations thereof.

A volatile material or composition suitable for use in the cartridge <NUM> for a volatile composition dispenser <NUM> may be configured to condition, modify, or otherwise change the atmosphere and may include compositions suitable for the purposes of providing fragrances, air fresheners, deodorizers, odor eliminators, malodor counteractants, insecticides, insect repellants, medicinal substances, disinfectants, sanitizers, mood enhancers, and aromatherapy aids. A list of the suitable volatile materials is shown in Table <NUM> below.

The composition may be formulated such that the composition comprises a volatile material mixture comprising about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, by total weight, of volatile materials that each having a VP at <NUM> of less than about <NUM> torr; alternatively about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, by total weight, of volatile materials each having a VP at <NUM> of less than about <NUM> torr; alternatively about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, by total weight, of volatile materials each having a VP at <NUM> of less than about <NUM> torr; alternatively about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, by total weight, of volatile materials each having a VP at <NUM> of less than about <NUM> torr. The volatile material mixture may include <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, by total weight, of volatile materials each having a VP at <NUM> of about <NUM> torr to about <NUM> torr; and <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, by total weight, of volatile materials each having a VP at <NUM> of about <NUM> torr to about <NUM> torr; and about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, by total weight, of volatile materials each having a VP at <NUM> of about <NUM> torr to about <NUM> torr. One source for obtaining the saturation vapor pressure of a volatile material is EPI Suite™, version <NUM>, available from U. Environmental Protection Agency.

Claim 1:
A volatile composition dispenser (<NUM>) comprising:
a) a housing (<NUM>) comprising a rear frame (<NUM>) wherein the rear frame (<NUM>) comprises a frame opening (<NUM>) having a longitudinal axis (<NUM>);
b) an inner wall (<NUM>) in the opening (<NUM>), the inner wall (<NUM>) comprising a proximal end (<NUM>) at a periphery (<NUM>) of the opening (<NUM>) and a distal end (<NUM>);
c) a push button (<NUM>) configured to be movable within the frame opening (<NUM>) from a first position to a second position relative to the distal end (<NUM>) of the inner wall (<NUM>), wherein the push button (<NUM>) comprises a button body (<NUM>);
d) at least one first protrusion (<NUM>) located at the distal end (<NUM>) of the inner wall (<NUM>);
e) at least one second protrusion (<NUM>) disposed on the button body (<NUM>) wherein the second protrusion (<NUM>) is aligned to engage with and move past the first protrusion (<NUM>) as the button (<NUM>) is moved from the first position to the second position wherein the second protrusion (<NUM>) is below the first protrusion (<NUM>) relative to the distal end (<NUM>) of the inner wall (<NUM>) in a vertical direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (<NUM>) to prevent return of the button (<NUM>) to the first position; and
f) a volatile composition cartridge (<NUM>) disposed within the housing (<NUM>) adjacent the push button (<NUM>), the cartridge (<NUM>) comprising a container (<NUM>) having an orifice (<NUM>), within which the volatile composition (<NUM>) is stored, a rupturable substrate (<NUM>) sealably attached to and covering the orifice (<NUM>), a rupture mechanism (<NUM>) positioned adjacent to the rupturable substrate (<NUM>), and one or more rupture elements (<NUM>) arranged within the rupture mechanism (<NUM>);
wherein button (<NUM>) is depressed until it makes contact with the rupture mechanism (<NUM>); and the one or more rupture elements (<NUM>) on the rupture mechanism (<NUM>) pierce the rupturable substrate (<NUM>).