WO2001055009A1

WO2001055009A1 - Spray dispenser

Info

Publication number: WO2001055009A1
Application number: PCT/IL2001/000068
Authority: WO
Inventors: Shimon Yahav
Original assignee: Gotit Ltd.
Priority date: 2000-01-25
Filing date: 2001-01-24
Publication date: 2001-08-02
Also published as: US20040155056A1; US20030205580A1; IL134219A0; EP1257484A1; AU2001228773A1; MXPA02007240A; JP2003520679A; CA2398179A1; EP1257484A4

Abstract

This invention is an apparatus (10) for spraying contents of a spray container (16), including a dispenser body (12) sealingly attachable to the container containing a fluid (18), a fluid outlet (20) formed in the dispenser body and a deformable element (56) generally freely (51) supported around a perimeter thereof in the dispenser body, the deformable element having a first orientation (Fig.1A) when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation (Fig.1B) when out of the reference temperature range, wherein in the first orientation the deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in the second orientation of the deformable element is operative to allow a passage of the fluid from the container. A method of dispensing a fluid from a container is also disclosed.

Description

SPRAY DISPENSER FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to the field of spray dispensers and particularly to a spray dispenser which operates by means of a novel deformable element.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Certain products such as insecticides and air fresheners are commonly supplied in pressurized containers. The contents of the container are usually dispensed to the atmosphere by pressing down on a valve at the top of the container. The contents of the container are consequently emitted through a channel in the valve.

In many cases it is desired that the contents of the container be automatically dispensed periodically. Many automatic dispensers are known in the art.

A first type of automatic dispenser includes dispensers with mechanical means, such as an arm, which periodically presses the valve of the container. Such dispensers are described, for example, in US Patents 4,184,612, 3,739,944, 3,543,122, 3,768,732, 5,038,972 and 3,018,056. However, these dispensers cannot accurately control the output of the container, since the valve and the contact of the dispenser with the valve are not accurately controlled by the dispenser. Also these dispensers are generally not portable and are fit for use only with containers of a specific size. The valves are also susceptible to failure because of valve sticking, resulting in complete discharge of the contents of the container within a short period.

Another type of automatic dispenser employs a solenoid, which is periodically energized in order to emit a burst of the contents of the container. Such dispensers are described, for example, in US Patents 4,415,797, 3,351,240 and 3,187,949. These dispensers require substantial electrical power, and are dependent on gravity and/or the fluid pressure in the container for successful operation.

A third type of automatic dispenser is described, for example, in US Patent

5,447,273. In this automatic dispenser the pneumatic pressure of the container is used to operate a timing device causing the contents of the container to be periodically dispensed. However, the ability to control the dispensation intervals is complicated and limited due to the pneumatic characteristic of the timing device. Other US Patents that

l describe pneumatic or spring-actuated dispensers include 2,719,432, 3,589,562, 3,658,209, 3,722,749, 4,077,542, 4,469,255, 5,025,962 and 5,364,028.

A fourth type of automatic dispenser is described in PCT patent application PCT/TJL98/00618, assigned to the present assignee, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. This type of automatic spray dispenser allows accurate control of the amount of discharged material, and allows flexibility in setting the frequency of dispensation. The dispenser has an open state in which fluid is discharged from a can or container, and a closed state in which the fluid is not emitted. A motor is provided which changes the state of the dispenser between the open and closed states. This is preferably accomplished by means of a flexible lever which is coupled to a threaded shaft which is attached to the motor. The lever is normally in a closed state. The motor rotates the shaft, thereby flexing the lever from the closed state to the open state and vice versa, depending on the direction of rotation.

A fifth type of automatic dispenser utilizes a bimetallic spring connected to a valve to control dispensing the contents of a spray container. In this dispenser, the bimetallic spring starts, for example, at room temperature, wherein the valve is open for dispensing the contents out of the container. As the contents of the container flow outwards, they thermally contact the bimetallic spring, thereby cooling the spring. Due to its lower temperature, the spring contracts and closes the valve, thereby stopping dispensing the contents from the container. Eventually the bimetallic spring is warmed by the environment back to a temperature sufficient for the spring to re-expand to its original position, thereby opening the valve and once again dispensing a portion of the contents.

One example of such a bimetallic mechanism includes 4,361,013 to Skeele. Skeele is not a spray dispenser, but rather a box for cooling items stored therein. Skeele employs coil or leaf types of bimetallic springs.

A Japanese inventor, Taisho Iketani, patented a number of bimetallic spray devices. His earliest, US Patent 3,360,165, utilizes bimetallic springs similar to those of Skeele for spray-dispensing contents from a container. However, Iketani quickly discovered that such springs are not suitable for spray-dispensing, because they lack the requisite snap action for spraying contents from a container.

Iketani improved the bimetallic spray dispenser in US Patent 3,419,189, which utilizes a bimetallic disc, shaped like a Belleville washer, clamped around its periphery. However, while the disc does provide the requisite snap action for spraying the contents, nevertheless the bimetallic disc does not operate properly when clamped around its periphery. In his next patent, US Patent 3,596,800, Iketani describes the abovementioned problem in col. 3, lines 35-43: "The conventional mechanism for supporting a disc-shaped bimetal has been disadvantageous in that slight misalignment of the bimetal or small variation in its size may result in an accidental reversing movement of the bimetal depending upon the clamping forces exerted on its periphery and therefore it is almost impossible to obtain a uniform finished product. Such a problem becomes more serious because the valve mechanism of this type is extremely small." Iketani proposed to solve the problem by clamping not around the entire periphery but rather at a number of discrete points around the periphery.

In a divisional of 3,596,800, US Patent 3,685,693, Iketani utilized the same type of discrete clamping, and added a manual override for spraying without the bimetal disc.

In US Patent 3,684,133, Iketani added two more features to the bimetal mechanism. First, Iketani sandwiched the disc between portions of a spongy material inwards of the clamped periphery. The purpose of the spongy material is to absorb a volatile liquid, such as methyl alcohol, mixed with the pressurized contents of the spray container, so as to enhance cooling of the bimetallic disc and accelerate snapping of the disc. Second, Iketani attached an actuating rod to the bimetal disc. However, neither of these features provided reliable snapping action.

Thus, even with the discrete clamping of the bimetallic disc, these bimetallic spray dispensers have not had reliable performance and apparently have never had any commercial success.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide an automatic bimetallic spray dispenser with an extremely simple and inexpensive construction that significantly improves upon the prior art devices. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, in contradistinction to Iketani, a bimetallic disc is employed that is freely supported around its perimeter. This surprisingly solves the problem of the prior art, namely, the disc-shaped bimetal does not have the disadvantage of being sensitive to slight misalignments or variations in size, and does not accidentally reverse its movement.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, again in contradistinction to Iketani, a generally rectangular bimetallic element is employed that can either be freely supported, clamped all around its perimeter or clamped only at its short ends. This once again surprisingly solves the abovementioned problem of the prior art. Unlike the circular disc, the rectangular bimetallic element is not sensitive to slight misalignments or variations in size, and does not accidentally reverse its movement under the influence of all-around clamping.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel safety valve that prevents undesirable overspraying of the contents of a spray container.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a novel, internal feed tube for a spray container that enables spraying contents of the container without shaking the contents.

There is thus provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, including a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid, a fluid outlet formed in the dispenser body, and a deformable element generally freely supported around a perimeter thereof in the dispenser body, the deformable element having a first orientation when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation when out of the reference temperature range, wherein in the first orientation the deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in the second orientation the deformable element is operative to allow passage of the fluid from the container. The deformable element may be generally circular or rectangular.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the second position, the fluid flows towards and contacts the deformable element, wherein heat is transferred between the fluid and the deformable element so as to bring the deformable element into the reference temperature range, such that the deformable element deforms from the second orientation to the first orientation. The fluid may contact the deformable element either on a surface of the deformable element which faces the container, or which does not face the container, or both. Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a plunger is arranged for sliding motion in the dispenser body between a first position and a second position. The plunger is preferably attached to the deformable element.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the deformable element includes a bimetallic element. Alternatively, the deformable element may be a shape memory alloy element.

Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the dispenser body includes thermal insulation for thermally insulating the deformable element from an outside environment. Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the dispenser body is formed with an expansion chamber, and when the deformable element is in the second orientation, the fluid flows into the expansion chamber and expands therein. The expansion chamber may be positioned on one side or both sides of the deformable element. Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a safety spray valve is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet which is operative to substantially prevent flow of the fluid through the fluid outlet.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the safety spray valve includes a stopper slidingly disposed in a bore formed in the dispenser body, the bore allowing fluid to flow from a container to the fluid outlet, wherein the stopper is adapted to slide towards an end of the bore, and be substantially sealingly retained thereat, by a force of pressurized contents of the container.

Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the safety spray valve includes a one-way valve that substantially prevents matter from flowing in a direction from the deformable element back into the container.

Still further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the one-way valve includes a ball disposed in a bore formed in the dispenser body, the ball not interfering with flow of fluid from the container towards the deformable element, but substantially preventing flow of fluid backwards towards the container. Additionally in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the spray valve is in fluid communication with contents of a spray container, the contents including a first substance, and a second substance which includes at least one of a liquid portion and a gaseous portion, the spray valve further including a tube with a lower open end in fluid communication with the first substance, the tube being formed with at least one side aperture in fluid communication with the second substance.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the at least one side aperture is in fluid communication with the liquid portion. Alternatively, the at least one side aperture is in fluid communication with the gaseous portion.

Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention when the spray valve dispenses the contents, an internal pressure of the container forces the first substance into the open end, and as the first substance rises in the tube, the second substance can enter the at least one side aperture and mix with the first substance, prior to the contents being sprayed.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, including a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid, an expansion chamber formed in the dispenser body, a fluid outlet formed in the dispenser body, and a generally rectangular deformable element disposed in the expansion chamber, the deformable element having a first orientation when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation when out of the reference temperature range, wherein in the first orientation the deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in the second orientation the deformable element is operative to allow passage of the fluid from the container, and when the deformable element is in the second orientation, the fluid flows into the expansion chamber and expands therein.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the deformable element is generally freely supported in the expansion chamber in the first orientation, wherein as the deformable element snaps from the first orientation to the second orientation, ends of the deformable element move and abut against inner surfaces of the expansion chamber, the ends of the deformable element being separated by a gap from the inner surfaces of the expansion chamber and freely supported in the expansion chamber when the deformable element has snapped to the second orientation.

Alternatively, two ends of the deformable element are clamped in the expansion chamber. Still alternatively, the deformable element is clamped generally around its perimeter in the expansion chamber.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, including a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid, a fluid outlet formed in the dispenser body, a spray nozzle in fluid communication with the dispenser body operative to spray the fluid from the container, and a safety valve operative to substantially prevent flow of the fluid through the spray nozzle even if the spray nozzle malfunctions.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, the contents including a first substance, and a second substance which includes at least one of a liquid portion and a gaseous portion, the apparatus including a tube with a lower open end in fluid communication with the first substance, the tube being formed with at least one side aperture in fluid communication with the second substance. The first substance may be generally in a fluid or solid state in the container.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the tube is formed with a plurality of the side apertures, wherein one of the side apertures is in fluid communication with at least one of the liquid portion and the gaseous portion.

Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention one of the side apertures has a size different than another of the side apertures.

There is also in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention a method of dispensing a fluid from a container, including providing a container containing a fluid, attaching a spray valve to the container, the spray valve including a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid, a fluid outlet formed in the dispenser body, a deformable element generally freely supported around a perimeter thereof in the dispenser body, the deformable element having a first orientation when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation when out of the reference temperature range, wherein in the first orientation the deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in the second orientation the deformable element is operative to allow passage of the fluid from the container, and placing the container with the spray valve attached thereto in an environment whose temperature is out of the reference temperature range, such that heat transfer between the deformable element and the environment brings the deformable element out of the reference temperature range after a period of time, whereupon the deformable element deforms to the second orientation, and the fluid flows from the container into the dispenser body and is dispensed out of the fluid outlet. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the method further includes transferring heat between the fluid and the deformable element when the deformable element is in the second orientation so as to bring the deformable element into the reference temperature range, such that the deformable element deforms from the second orientation to the first orientation, thereby preventing the fluid from exiting the dispenser body.

Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention the method includes controlling dispensing of the fluid by one of the following steps: selecting a desired size of the spray nozzle, selecting a desired size of the fluid outlet, constructing the deformable element of a bimetallic material with selected thermal properties and physical dimensions, directing the fluid to flow on a surface of the deformable element which faces the container, when the deformable element is in the second position, directing the fluid to flow on a surface of the deformable element which does not face the container, when the deformable element is in the second position, directing the fluid to flow both on a surface of the deformable element which faces the container and on a surface of the deformable element which does not face the container, when the deformable element is in the second position, selecting desired physical properties of the fluid, selecting desired thermal properties of the fluid, selecting desired a pressure of the fluid, or thermally insulating the dispenser body from an outside environment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the drawings in which:

Figs. 1A and IB are simplified pictorial illustrations of a spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed and open configurations, wherein a fluid flows against a lower surface of a deformable element and exits as a fluid spray from a side outlet;

Figs. 2A and 2B are simplified pictorial illustrations of a spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed and open configurations, wherein the fluid flows against an upper surface of the deformable element and exits as a fluid spray from a side outlet;

Figs. 3 A and 3B are simplified pictorial illustrations of a spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed and open configurations, wherein the fluid flows against an upper surface of the deformable element and exits as a fluid spray from an upper outlet;

Figs. 4A and 4B are simplified pictorial illustrations of a spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed and open configurations, wherein the fluid flows against both lower and upper surfaces of the deformable element and exits as a fluid spray from a side outlet;

Fig. 5 is a simplified sectional illustration of a safety spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 6A and 6B are simplified sectional and top-view illustrations, respectively, of a spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which employs a generally rectangular deformable element clamped around its perimeter; Figs. 6C and 6D are simplified sectional and top-view illustrations, respectively, of a spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which employs a generally rectangular deformable element clamped at its short ends;

Figs. 6E and 6F are simplified sectional illustrations of the spray valve of Figs. 6C and 6D, respectively during and after the deformable element reversing its position;

Figs. 7A, 7B and 7C are simplified pictorial illustrations of a spray valve constructed and operative in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective full, partially full and nearly empty configurations, wherein contents of a spray container can be sprayed without shaking the container; and Fig. 7D is a simplified illustration of the spray valve of Figs. 7A-7C, with an upper aperture formed in a feed tube, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Reference is now made to Figs. 1A and IB which illustrate a spray valve 10 constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Spray valve 10 preferably includes a dispenser body 12 with an expansion chamber 14 formed therein. Dispenser body 12 may be sealingly connected to a container 16 containing a fluid 18, such as by means of an elastic metal ring 24 which tightly fits into a groove 26 formed at a bottom end of dispenser body 12, in the same or similar manner as described in PCT patent application PCT/TL98/00618. Fluid 18 may be any kind of fluid, suitable for storing in container 16 (under pressure or not), such as, but not limited to, odorants, pesticides, fungicides, foodstuffs, paint, repellents, and the like. Container 16 may be any kind of pressurized or non-pressurized container used in any of the applications described in PCT patent application PCT/LL98/00618. Container has a nozzle 17 extending therefrom (Fig. 1A). Dispenser body 12 may include thermal insulation 19, such as a plastic liner

(single or multiple layers of insulation), or such as being constructed like a vacuum flask or with an insulating air pocket, for example.

A fluid outlet 20 is preferably formed in dispenser body 12 and is in fluid communication with expansion chamber 14. In the embodiment of Figs. 1 A and IB, fluid outlet 20 is located on a side of dispenser body 12.

A plunger 22 is preferably arranged for sliding motion in dispenser body 12 between a first position (the position shown in Fig. 1A) and a second position (the position shown in Fig. IB). Plunger 22 can be brought into fluid communication with the fluid 18 contained in container 16 in a variety of manners. In the illustrated embodiment, an adapter 28 is provided formed with a lower aperture 29 which snugly fits over nozzle 17 of container 16. Different adapters 28 with differently sized apertures 29 may be provided for connection with any size nozzle 17. An O-ring 30 may be provided for sealing the fluid connection between adapter 28 and container nozzle 17. Adapter 28 is formed with a longitudinal bore 31. Adapter 28 fits in a bore 32 formed in dispenser body 12. Another O-ring 34 may be provided for fluidly sealing adapter 28 with respect to bore 32. An upper portion 36 of adapter 28 abuts against a guide member 38. Preferably a third O-ring 40 is provided to seal the fluid connection between adapter 28 and guide member 38. Guide member 38 is formed with a bore 42 in which slides plunger 22. A lower portion of guide member 38 is formed with a counterbore 44 which extends from bore 42.

In accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention, plunger 22 is constructed as a hollow needle with a hole 46 formed in a lower portion thereof and a hole 48 formed at an upper end thereof (the hollow being shown in dashed lines in Fig. 1A). Alternatively, plunger 22 may be formed as a non-hollow needle. A stop 50 may be affixed to the upper end of plunger 22 which limits the downward travel (in the sense of Fig. 1A) of plunger 22. In the case of a hollow-needle plunger 22, an O-ring 52 and O-ring cover 54 may be provided for fluidly sealing the upper end of plunger 22 with guide member 38 and stop 50. In the case of a non-hollow plunger 22, stop 50, O-ring 52 and O-ring cover 54 are preferably omitted.

The skilled artisan will appreciate that the foregoing description of plunger 22 and the various seals is just one example of countless other configurations of constructing and sealing plunger 22, and that any configuration of plunger 22 is within the scope of the present invention.

A deformable element 56 is preferably mounted just above expansion chamber 14 in dispenser body 12. Deformable element 56 may have any shape, such as circular, rectangular or square, for example. In the case of a circular, disc-shaped element, deformable element 56 is not clamped around its periphery, as in the Iketani devices described in the background. Instead, deformable element 56 is preferably freely supported around its periphery. In the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 1 A and IB, a plug 53 preferably snugly fits in dispenser body 12 and is preferably fastened thereto with a retaining ring 47. The periphery of deformable element 56 is placed, but not clamped, between a lower extension 43 of plug 53 and an O-ring 58. As deformable element 56 bends downwards or upwards (in the sense of Fig. 1A), deformable element 56 merely rests on or slightly squeezes O-ring 58, but there is generally no clamping force on deformable element 56. The purpose of O-ring 58 is to seal the expansion chamber 14 which is situated below deformable element 56 in the embodiment of Figs. 1A and IB. (In another embodiment, shown in Fig. 5, the expansion chamber is on both sides of the deformable element, and there is no need for an O-ring.) Thus deformable element 56 is free to snap from one position to another without any clamping forces. Unlike the prior art, namely, deformable element 56 does not have the disadvantage of being sensitive to slight misalignments or variations in size, and does not accidentally reverse its movement.

There is preferably a gap 51 that extends radially between the peripheral edge of deformable element 56 and the inner perimeter of expansion chamber 14. Gap 51 ensures that there are no radially-directed stresses acting upon deformable element 56. In the case of a non-hollow plunger 22 that is attached to deformable element 56, gap 51 enables plunger 22 to self-center relative to stop 50 and O-ring 52 without any radially-directed forces acting upon deformable element 56. The presence of gap 51 relaxes manufacturing tolerances and thus brings down the cost of manufacturing spray valve 10.

Deformable element 56 may be formed with one or more holes in its central portion or any other portion thereof. The upper end of plunger 22 preferably abuts against a surface 59 of deformable element 56. Alternatively, in the case of plunger 22 being constructed as a non-hollow needle, plunger 22 is preferably attached to deformable element 56, such as by means of spot welding, for example.

In a most preferred embodiment, deformable element 56 is constructed of a bimetallic material, i.e., two dissimilar metals welded or otherwise joined together, the two metals having different temperature coefficients of expansion. Due to the different thermal properties of the two metals, deformable element 56 has a first orientation when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforms to a second orientation when out of the reference temperature range.

For example, in the illustrated embodiment, deformable element 56 is in the first orientation shown in Fig. 1A. In this first orientation, surface 59 of deformable element 56 has a generally convex shape when viewed from the upper tip of plunger 22. Deformable element 56 applies a force against plunger 22 generally in the direction of an arrow 57 so as to prevent plunger 22 from sliding from the first position of Fig. 1 A to the second position of Fig. IB. In the first position, fluid 18 can flow from container 16 into longitudinal bore 31 of adapter 28, but O-ring 40 substantially prevents fluid 18 from flowing into counterbore 44 of guide member 38. Thus, in the first orientation, deformable element 56 prevents fluid 18 from being dispensed through outlet 20. Deformable element 56 remains in the first orientation as long as it is in the reference temperature range. For example, as long as deformable element 56 is below -20°C, it will remain in the first orientation. (As is well known in the art, commercially available bimetallic elements can be supplied for any desired temperature range.)

If deformable element 56 is out of the reference temperature range, then deformable element 56 deforms to the second orientation shown in Fig. IB. In this second orientation, surface 59 of deformable element 56 has a generally concave shape when viewed from the upper tip of plunger 22. The deformation of deformable element 56 permits plunger 22 to slide generally in the direction of an aπow 55 (opposite to the direction of aπow 57 shown in Fig. 1A) to the second position shown in Fig. IB. In the second position, fluid 18 flows into counterbore 44 of guide member 38. In the case of a hollow plunger 22, fluid 18 then flows into hole 46 through plunger 22 and out of upper hole 48 into expansion chamber 14. In the case of a non-hollow plunger 22, fluid 18 flows from counterbore 44 into the space between plunger 22 and bore 42 up into expansion chamber 14. Fluid 18 then expands in expansion chamber 14 and exits outlet 20 as a spray. Deformable element 56 remains in the second orientation as long as it is out of the reference temperature range. For example, as long as deformable element 56 is at a temperature equal to or greater than -20°C, it will remain in the second orientation, and fluid 18 will continue to be dispensed from outlet 20.

The temperature of deformable element 56 is determined by heat transfer between fluid 18 and deformable element 56 and by heat transfer between deformable element 56 and the environment outside of dispenser body 12, as is now described.

Operation of spray valve 10 commences by placing container 16 with spray valve 10 attached thereto in an environment whose temperature is out of the reference temperature range. For example, container 16 is placed in a room whose ambient temperature is greater than -20°C. Heat transfer (by conduction through the walls of dispenser body 12, and convection and radiation to the room environment) between deformable element 56 and the environment eventually brings deformable element 56 out of the reference temperature range after a period of time. In other words, in the above example, the heat transfer eventually warms deformable element 56 from a temperature below -20°C to a temperature greater than or equal to -20°C, whereupon deformable element 56 deforms to the second orientation, plunger 22 slides to the second position, fluid 18 flows from container 16 to expansion chamber 14 and expands to a fluid spray that exits from fluid outlet 20, as described hereinabove.

While plunger 22 is in the second position, fluid 18 contacts deformable element 56 and thereby eventually brings deformable element 56 back into the reference temperature range. In other words, in the above example, heat transfer between fluid 18 and deformable element 56 cools deformable element 56 from a temperature greater than or equal to -20°C to a temperature below -20°C, such that deformable element 56 deforms from the second orientation back to the first orientation and plunger 22 slides back to the first position, thereby preventing fluid 18 from exiting dispenser body 12.

Eventually heat transfer between deformable element 56 and the environment once again brings deformable element 56 out of the reference temperature range, and the operating cycle repeats itself.

Thus spray valve 10 cyclically dispenses fluid 18 from container 16. Various factors affect the frequency and time duration of dispensation, amount of fluid dispensed, the operative reference temperature range, and time for deformable element 56 to deform between the two orientations. These factors include, inter alia. a. Size of plunger 22 and any holes thereof (46, 48) through which fluid 18 flows. b. Size of outlet 20. c. Type of bimetallic material (or shape memory alloy, as described below) from which deformable element 56 is constructed, as well as the size and thickness of deformable element 56. The type of material affects the time for deformable element 56 to deform between the two orientations, temperature behavior of deformable element 56, and force applied against plunger 22. d. Whether fluid 18 flows on surface 59 of deformable element 56 or on an opposite surface thereof (as is described hereinbelow). If fluid 18 flows on surface 59, then the fluid pressure of fluid 18 retards the deformation of deformable element 56 from the second to the first orientation. Conversely, if fluid 18 flows on a side opposite to surface 59, then the fluid pressure of fluid 18 aids in pushing deformable element 56 from the second to the first orientation. e. The physical and thermal properties of fluid 18, as well as its pressure. f. More than one deformable element 56 may be used. For example, two or more deformable elements 56 may be stacked together and used as one composite deformable element. The number of deformable elements 56 governs the force that the deformable elements apply against plunger 22. An assortment of deformable elements 56 may be provided with different thermal characteristics, mechanical properties or physical dimensions, in order to cover a wide range of applications, g. Size of expansion chamber 14. h. Thermal properties of thermal insulation 19.

It is noted that in the above example, deformable element 56 is warmed by the environment in order to dispense fluid 18, and is cooled by fluid 18 in order to stop dispensing fluid 18. It is appreciated that the present invention can also be carried out for dispensing fluids which are hotter than the environment. In such a case, deformable element 56 is cooled by the environment in order to dispense fluid 18, and is warmed by fluid 18 in order to stop dispensing fluid 18.

An alternative material for constructing deformable element 56 is a shape memory alloy, such as a nickel titanium alloy. Shape memory alloys have the ability to return to a predetermined shape upon heating via a phase transformation between austenitic and martensitic structures.

Reference is now made to Figs. 2A and 2B which illustrate a spray valve 60 constructed and operative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed and open configurations. Spray valve 60 is substantially constructed the same as spray valve 10, with like elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 60 differs from spray valve 10 in that spray valve 60 includes a channel 62 which directs flow of fluid 18 against a surface 64 of deformable element 56 opposite surface 59. Fluid 18 still exits as a fluid spray from side outlet 20. As mentioned above, since fluid 18 flows on surface 64 opposite to surface 59, the fluid pressure of fluid 18 aids in pushing deformable element 56 from the second to the first orientation.

Reference is now made to Figs. 3 A and 3B which illustrate a spray valve 70 constructed and operative in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed and open configurations. Spray valve 70 is substantially constructed the same as spray valve 60, with like elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 70 differs from spray valve 60 in that spray valve 70 includes a channel 72 which directs flow of fluid 18 from surface 64 of deformable element 56 to an upper outlet 74, from which fluid 18 exits as a spray. Reference is now made to Figs. 4A and 4B which illustrate a spray valve 80 constructed and operative in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in respective closed and open configurations. Spray valve 80 is substantially constructed the same as spray valve 10 or 60, with like elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 80 differs from spray valve 10 or 60 in that in spray valve 80, deformable element 56 is arranged with respect to expansion chamber 14 such that expansion chamber 14 extends around deformable element 56 by means of a bypass 82. In this manner, in the second orientation, fluid 18 flows against both lower and upper surfaces 59 and 64 of deformable element 56. The fluid 18 can exit from either a side outlet (as shown in Figs. 4A and 4B) or as an upper outlet (as in the embodiment of Figs. 3A and 3B).

It is noted that aerosol cans contain a pressurized liquid which is dispensed as droplets or as a mist or gas. However, aerosol cans cannot generally dispense a fluid which has already changed to gas inside the can. In the present invention, the presence of expansion chamber 14 permits dispensing fluid 18 even if fluid 18 has already changed to a gaseous state.

It is be appreciated that many other arrangements of the internal components of spray valves 10, 60, 70 and 80 are possible within the scope of the present invention.

Reference is now made to Fig. 5 which illustrates a valve 90 constructed and operative in accordance with a prefeπed embodiment of the present invention. Valve 90 can be employed in any kind of aerosol spray system, including the above described embodiments of the present invention, and is particularly useful in systems which spray a predetermined amount of substance or where a safety valve is required. Valve 90 can be integrated with or replace the existing valve of the spray system. Valve 90 preferably includes a lower body 92 with a narrow extension 94.

Extension 94 is adapted to be fluid connected with a feed tube 95 through which contents of a container 96 can flow. Feed tube 95 is preferably the feed tube shown and described hereinbelow with reference to Figs. 7A-7D, but alternatively any other kind of feed tube may be used. Body 92 and extension 94 are preferably formed with a central bore 98 which extends into a counterbore 107. In the position shown in Fig. 5, a stopper 106 is disposed at the bottom of counterbore 107, thereby defining a volume 108 between stopper 106 and an upper end 102 of counterbore 107. A clearance preferably exists between the outer perimeter of stopper 106 and the inner perimeter of counterbore 107, such that a portion of the contents of container 96 can flow from container 96 around stopper 106 and fill volume 108.

An expansion chamber 99 is preferably formed in an inner volume of an upper body 110, which preferably has a lower extension 112 that snaps fixedly on lower body 92. A soft elastomeric (e.g., rubber) washer 105 may be placed between upper and lower bodies 110 and 92. Alternatively, lower and upper bodies 92 and 110 may be constructed as one unitary body, in which case there is no need for washer 105. Deformable element 56 is disposed in expansion chamber 99. A plunger 100 is preferably attached to deformable element 56, such as by means of spot welding, for example. Plunger 100, preferably non-hollow, is arranged to slide from an upper position shown in solid lines in Fig. 5 to a lower position shown in dashed lines. In the lower position, plunger 100 preferably sealingly slides into an O-ring 104 affixed at the upper end 102 of counterbore 107. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, expansion chamber 99 has a shape that conforms to the limits of the deformed orientations of deformable element 56. Expansion chamber 99 preferably is formed with a hole 99 A, through which passes plunger 100. The conformal shape of expansion chamber 99 has several advantages: a. The shape of expansion chamber 99 permits placing a spray outlet 101 at any angle or orientation in expansion chamber 99, thereby enabling spraying contents of a container in any direction. b. Any number of spray outlets 101 of any combination of size and shape may be employed, through which the contents are sprayed essentially simultaneously. By controlling the number, size and shape of the outlets 101, one can substantially prevent excess pressure build-up in expansion chamber 99. c. Because of the shape of expansion chamber 99, the fluid contents of the container flow both over and under deformable element 56 generally at the same time. d. The conformal shape of expansion chamber 99 has a small volume, thereby permitting spraying small dosages of the contents of the spray container. e. The shape also prevents accumulation of any leftover matter that did not completely exit the expansion chamber 99 during the previous spraying. Any leftover matter flows along the bottom of expansion chamber 99, drains through hole 99A and is sprayed during the next spraying. f. The size of expansion chamber 99 determines the quantity of fluid 103 that can be sprayed, and the amount of liquid droplets of fluid 103 that will be sprayed as opposed to gaseous matter. The larger the chamber, the more room there is for fluid 103 to expand, and consequently less liquid droplets will be sprayed. Conversely, the smaller the chamber, the more liquid droplets will be sprayed. The maximum quantity of substance which can be sprayed at a time is about equal to volume 108. However, it is preferable not to spray more than volume 108 at a time, so that stopper 106 will not become lodged in end 102 of bore 98.

Operation of valve 90 is now described. Initially, a quantity of fluid 103 has flowed from container 96 through tube 95 and bore 98 into volume 108. When deformable element 56 is in the upward (solid line) position of Fig. 5, the internal pressure of the contents of container 96 push upwards (in the sense of Fig. 5) against stopper 106 and force some of the fluid 103 upwards from volume 108 through hole 99A into expansion chamber 99. Fluid 103 expands in expansion chamber 99 and exits as a spray through spray outlet or outlets 101. Fluid 103 flows around the ends of deformable element 56, such that fluid 103 cools both sides of deformable element 56. Once deformable element 56 has sufficiently cooled, it snaps to the lower (dashed line) position shown in Fig. 5. Plunger 100 slides into O-ring 104 and seals the upper end 102 of counterbore 107. Stopper 106 drops back down by gravity to the bottom of counterbore 107 and a fresh portion of the contents of container 96 flows upwards past stopper 106 and re-fills volume 108. The re-filled volume 108 is now ready for the next spray. Optionally, valve 90 may be configured to be a one-way valve, i.e., a valve that prevents matter from flowing back into container 96. This may be accomplished by placing a small, preferably elastic, ball 156 below stopper 106. Ball 156 can become lodged in a chamfered portion 158 formed in bore 98 at the throat of lower extension 94. Ball 156 does not interfere with flow of fluid 103 from container 96 towards deformable element 56 and chamber 99, but does substantially prevent flow of fluid backwards towards container 96.

Once again, it is to be emphasized that deformable element 56 is free to snap from one position to another without any clamping forces. This is because deformable element 56 is not clamped, but rather freely supported. There is preferably an up-and-down gap 183 (in the sense of Fig. 5) and a radial gap 185 between deformable element 56 and the inner surfaces of expansion chamber 99. Radial gap 185 ensures that there are no radially-directed stresses acting upon deformable element 56, and enables plunger 100 to self-center relative to O-ring 104 without any radially-directed forces acting upon deformable element 56. The presence of gaps 183 and 185 relaxes manufacturing tolerances and brings down manufacturing costs.

Generally only about half or less of the fluid 103 in volume 108 is sprayed at a time. Various factors affect the frequency and time duration of dispensation, amount of fluid dispensed, the operative reference temperature range, and time for deformable element 56 to deform between the two orientations, as described hereinabove.

If any malfunction occurs and plunger 100 does not close properly, the internal pressure of the contents of container 96 will continue to force stopper 106 upwards towards upper end 102 of bore 98 such that stopper 106 will become lodged in end 102 of bore 98, thereby substantially sealing upper end 102 of bore 98 and preventing further spraying of the contents. It is noted that in Fig. 5 stopper 106 is illustrated as having an upper protrusion 106A which abuts against upper end 102. However, it is appreciated that stopper 106 could be flat and still seal against end 102, because the internal pressure of the contents of container 96 will maintain an upward force against stopper 106.

Thus, stopper 106 acts as a safety valve which prevents undesirable overspraying of the contents. Stopper 106 can prevent leaking or overspraying due to a variety of malfunctions. For example, malfunctions can possibly occur due to: knocks or blows to the container 96, dropping the container, a gas leak, or the fluid inside the container being spent. In all cases stopper 106 will act as a safety valve because the internal pressure will maintain stopper 106 sealed against end 102. In addition, if spraying is performed with the container in a horizontal or inverted position, stopper 106 will also substantially prevent spraying, because the internal pressure will again maintain stopper 106 sealed against end 102.

In accordance with a prefeπed embodiment of the present invention, an on-off switch 177 can be provided next to deformable element 56. On-off switch 177 may be simply constructed, for example, as r. stem 178 that slides in a bore 179 formed in an upper portion of upper body 110. A pin 180 preferably protrudes from a side of stem 178. Stem 178 can be pushed against deformable element 56 in the direction of an arrow 181 in Fig. 5, whereupon stem 178 can be turned approximately a quarter-turn so that pin 180 is received in a groove 182 formed in the upper portion of upper body 110. Once on-off switch 177 is pushed against deformable element 56, deformable element 56 cannot snap to the upper position of Fig. 5, and valve 90 is thus switched off. Conversely, the valve is turned on by removing pin 180 from groove 182.

On-off switch 177 can act as a manual reset for the stopper 106 as well. The action of pushing on-off switch 177 downwards (in the sense of Fig. 5), without quarter-turning stem 178, dislodges stopper 106 from the upper end 102 of counterbore 107. It is appreciated that other on-off switches may also be employed.

It is noted that the embodiment of Fig. 5 is distinguished, inter alia, by its simple construction - deformable element 56, lower and upper bodies 92 and 110, plunger 100, expansion chamber 99, stopper 106 and O-ring 104 (and optionally washer 105, ball 1 and on-off switch 177). The contents of the container flow directly to deformable element 56 without any need for extraneous structure as in Iketani, for example.

The fluid contents can be directed to flow from underneath deformable element 56 as shown and described hereinabove with reference to Figs. 1A and IB, or above deformable element 56 as shown and described hereinabove with reference to Figs. 2A and 2B. In other words, one can construct valve 90 such that the flow of the contents helps deformable element 56 snap back to the closed position (i.e., flow from underneath deformable element 56). Alternatively, one can construct valve 90 such that the flow of the contents retards deformable element 56 from snapping back to the closed position (i.e., flow from above deformable element 56). As another alternative, deformable element 56 can be formed with one or more holes through which the contents can be sprayed. The contents can also flow around deformable element 56.

In the case of the fluid contents being directed to flow from underneath deformable element 56, the upward flow of the contents applies an upward force upon plunger 100. This force aids in snapping deformable elemώit 56 to the spray orientation, and shortens the time between sprayings. The smaller the cross-sectional area of plunger 100, the smaller the force of the contents, and the longer time between sprayings. This upward force can cause deformable element 56 to snap to the spray orientation before deformable element 56 has actually reached the temperature normally required for snapping (i.e., actuation temperature). This allows using a deformable element with a slightly higher actuation temperature, which generally means cost savings, because the price of bimetallic discs generally decreases with higher actuation temperatures.

Reference is now made to Figs. 6A and 6B which illustrate a spray valve 180 constructed and operative in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention. Spray valve 180 is constructed generally similarly to valve 90, with like elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 180 employs a generally rectangular deformable element 182 either freely supported and placed between two halves 184 and 186 of an expansion chamber 188, or alternatively, clamped around its perimeter by the two halves 184 and 186, or further alternatively, clamped at only two ends thereof. It is generally the central area of deformable element 182 which snaps from one position to another.

A hole is preferably formed in the bottom of half 186 for plunger 100 to pass therethrough and for draining any leftover matter from previous sprayings. Deformable element 182 is preferably formed with one or more generally rectangular apertures 190, through which matter can be sprayed. The matter can exit expansion chamber 188 through an upper spray outlet 192, for example. Valve 180 operates in the same manner as the other valves of the present invention, described hereinabove. It is appreciated that any abovementioned variations in construction, such as number and position of spray outlets, for example, can be incorporated in valve 180 as well. Unlike circular bimetallic elements, the rectangular deformable element (bimetallic or shape memory) is not sensitive to slight misalignments or variations in size, and does not accidentally reverse its movement under the influence of all-around clamping.

Reference is now made to Figs. 6C-6F which illustrate a spray valve 194 constructed and operative in accordance with yet another prefeπed embodiment of the present invention. Spray valve 194 is constructed generally similarly to valve 180, with like elements being designated by like numerals. Spray valve 194 employs a generally rectangular deformable element 196 with short ends 198 which may be bent. Deformable element 196 is preferably freely supported in an expansion chamber 137. There is preferably a gap 135 between short ends 198 and an inner surface of expansion chamber 137.

In Fig. 6C, deformable element 196 is bent upwards, in the sense of the figure. As deformable element 196 starts to snap downwards, the short ends 198 move outwards in the direction of arrows 127 and abut against inner surfaces of expansion chamber 137, as seen in Fig. 6E. Once deformable element 196 snaps downwards to the position shown in Fig. 6F, there is again a gap 135 between short ends 198 and an inner surface of expansion chamber 137.

Many aerosol cans contain liquid and gaseous contents which must be shaken before spraying in order to mix these contents properly. Unfortunately, sometimes users forget to shake the contents, and in some spraying systems, it is inconvenient or impossible (such as in automatic spray dispensers) to shake the contents before each spray. The present invention enables spraying such contents without any need for shaking as is now described. Reference is now made to Figs. 7 A, 7B and 7C which illustrate a tube 122 useful for spray apparatus, constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Tube 122 preferably has a lower open end 124 in fluid communication with contents of a spray container 128. Lower open end 124 may be at the tip of tube 122, or alternatively may be on a side wall of tube 122. Lower open end 124 may be weighted, if desired, so that open end 124 gravitates towards the lowest part of container 128, irrespective of the angle at which container 128 is positioned.

Spray container 128 may be any kind of spray container of the present invention or of the art, and the upper end of tube 122 may be connected to any kind of spray nozzle (not shown) of the present invention or of the art, including the safety valve of Fig. 5. The contents of container 128 preferably include a first substance 126, which generally remains in a fluid (liquid or gaseous) state in container 128, and a second substance 117 which preferably comprises a liquid portion 132 and a gaseous portion 133. Gaseous portion 133 maintains a generally constant pressure on liquid portion 132 and first substance 126. It is this pressure which pushes the contents of container 128 out through tube 122 for spraying, as will be described hereinbelow. In many spraying applications, it is preferable that the first substance 126 and liquid portion 132 be mixed prior to being sprayed. Tube 122 mixes the two substances 126 and 117 as is described hereinbelow.

It is noted that the present invention is also applicable for spraying fine, solid particles as well. Thus, first substance 126 can also comprise a solid material, such as a sprayable powder. Second substance 117 does not necessarily have to include both a liquid portion 132 and a gaseous portion 133, but rather can be either liquid alone or gas alone.

Tube 122 is preferably formed with one or more side apertures of any size or shape. In the illustrated embodiment, there are three apertures, designated 130A, 13 OB and 130C, although it is appreciated that any number of apertures may be formed in tube 122. (Tube 122 may alternatively or additionally be provided with one or more gas intake apertures 139 to perform functions described further hereinbelow with reference to Fig. 7D.) Fig. 7A shows spray container 128 filled with liquid portion 132 above first substance 126, and gaseous portion 133 above liquid portion 132. It is seen that liquid portion 132 is in fluid communication with the upper aperture 130A. When the spray nozzle is opened for spraying, the internal pressure of container 128, i.e., the downward pressure supplied by gaseous portion 133, forces the first substance 126 into the open end 124. As first substance 126 rises in tube 122, liquid portion 132 can enter the upper aperture 130A and mix with first substance 126 as it flows upwards in tube 122. In this manner, the two substances are mixed prior to being sprayed, without any need for shaking the contents of container 128.

In Figs. 7B and 7C, a sufficient amount of the contents have been sprayed such that spray container 128 is now partially full or nearly empty, respectively. Liquid portion 132 is now in fluid communication with the middle aperture 130B or lower aperture 130C, respectively. Once again, when the spray nozzle is opened for spraying, the downward pressure supplied by gaseous portion 133 forces first substance 126 into the open end 124. As first substance 126 rises in tube 122, liquid portion 132 can enter the middle or lower aperture 130B or 130C, respectively, and mix with first substance 126 as it flows upwards in tube 122. The two substances are mixed prior to being sprayed, without any need for shaking the contents of container 128. It is noted that in Fig. 7B, gaseous portion 133 enters the upper aperture 130A and mixes with first substance 126 and liquid portion 132. In Fig. 7C, gaseous portion 133 enters the upper and middle apertures 130A and 130B and mixes with first substance 126 and liquid portion 132. In each case, the added ingredient of gaseous portion 133 slightly changes the proportion of first substance to the second substance. Although the change in proportion is generally negligible, nevertheless it can be minimized by varying the relative sizes of the lower, middle and upper apertures 130A, 130B and 130C. In general, the amount of gaseous portion 133 which enters tube 122 and mixes with first substance 126 and liquid portion 132, is mostly a function of the inner diameter of tube 122 and the sizes of apertures 130, rather than the number of apertures 130.

In summary, it is possible to have small, although for most applications negligible, differences in the ratio of first substance to second substance as the contents are emptied from container 128. The factors which affect the mixing ratio of first substance 126 and liquid portion 132 include, inter alia, initial ratio of first to second substance, properties of first and second substances 126 and 117, the amount of gaseous portion 133 left as the contents of container 128 are emptied, diameter, shape or size of the side apertures 130 and their relative position to each other, internal pressure of the container, and the spray time, i.e., the amount of time the contents are sprayed.

Optionally, as shown in Fig. 7D, tube 122 may have one or more apertures 139 formed at an upper end thereof which are in fluid communication with gaseous portion 133 at all times, and are not in fluid communication with first substance 126 nor liquid portion 132. In this manner, each time the contents of container 128 are sprayed, first substance 126 flows up through tube 122 and mixes only with gaseous portion 133, thereby maintaining a constant ratio of the mixture of first substance 126 and second substance 117 (in the form of gaseous portion 133), no matter whether the container 128 is full or not. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the features described hereinabove as well as modifications and variations thereof which would occur to a person of skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not in the prior art.

Claims

C L A I M S What is claimed is:

1. Apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, comprising: a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid; a fluid outlet formed in said dispenser body; and a deformable element generally freely supported around a perimeter thereof in said dispenser body, said deformable element having a first orientation when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation when out of said reference temperature range, wherein in said first orientation said deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in said second orientation said deformable element is operative to allow passage of the fluid from the container.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said deformable element is generally circular.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said deformable element is generally rectangular.

4. Apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising a container containing a fluid, said dispenser body being sealingly attached to said container.

5. Apparatus according to claim 4 wherein in said second position said fluid flows towards and contacts said deformable element, wherein heat is transferred between said fluid and said deformable element so as to bring said deformable element into said reference temperature range, such that said deformable element deforms from said second orientation to said first orientation.

6. Apparatus according to claim 4 wherein said fluid contacts said deformable element on a surface of said deformable element which faces said container.

7. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said fluid contacts said deformable element on a surface of said deformable element which does not face said container.

8. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said fluid contacts said deformable element both on a surface of said deformable element which faces said container and on a surface of said deformable element which does not face said container.

9. Apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising a plunger aπanged for sliding motion in said dispenser body between a first position and a second position.

10. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said plunger is attached to said deformable element.

11. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said deformable element comprises a bimetallic element.

12. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said deformable element comprises a shape memory alloy element.

13. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said dispenser body comprises thermal insulation for thermally insulating said deformable element from an outside environment.

14. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said dispenser body is formed with an expansion chamber, and when said deformable element is in said second orientation, said fluid flows into said expansion chamber and expands therein.

15. Apparatus according to claim 14 wherein said expansion chamber is positioned on one side of said deformable element.

16. Apparatus according to claim 14 wherein said expansion chamber is positioned on two sides of said deformable element.

17. Apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising a safety spray valve in fluid communication with said fluid outlet which is operative to substantially prevent flow of said fluid through said fluid outlet.

18. Apparatus according to claim 17 wherein said safety spray valve comprises a stopper slidingly disposed in a bore formed in said dispenser body, said bore allowing fluid to flow from a container to said fluid outlet, wherein said stopper is adapted to slide towards an end of said bore, and be substantially sealingly retained thereat, by a force of pressurized contents of the container.

19. Apparatus according to claim 17 wherein said safety spray valve comprises a one-way valve that substantially prevents matter from flowing in a direction from said deformable element back into the container.

20. Apparatus according to claim 19 wherein said one-way valve comprises a ball disposed in a bore formed in said dispenser body, said ball not interfering with flow of fluid from the container towards said deformable element, but substantially preventing flow of fluid backwards towards the container.

21. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims wherein said spray valve is in fluid communication with contents of a spray container, said contents comprising a first substance, and a second substance which comprises at least one of a liquid portion and a gaseous portion, said spray valve further comprising a tube with a lower open end in fluid communication with said first substance, said tube being formed with at least one side aperture in fluid communication with said second substance.

22. Apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said at least one side aperture is in fluid communication with said liquid portion.

23. Apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said at least one side aperture is in fluid communication with said gaseous portion.

24. Apparatus according to any of claims 21-23 wherein when said spray valve dispenses said contents, an internal pressure of said container forces said first substance into said open end, and as said first substance rises in said tube, said second substance can enter said at least one side aperture and mix with said first substance, prior to said contents being sprayed.

25. Apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, comprising: a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid; an expansion chamber formed in said dispenser body; a fluid outlet formed in said dispenser body; and a generally rectangular deformable element disposed in said expansion chamber, said deformable element having a first orientation when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation when out of said reference temperature range, wherein in said first orientation said deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in said second orientation said deformable element is operative to allow passage of the fluid from the container, and when said deformable element is in said second orientation, said fluid flows into said expansion chamber and expands therein.

26. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said deformable element is generally freely supported in said expansion chamber in said first orientation, wherein as said deformable element snaps from said first orientation to said second orientation, ends of said deformable element move and abut against inner surfaces of said expansion chamber, said ends of said deformable element being separated by a gap from the inner surfaces of said expansion chamber and freely supported in said expansion chamber when said deformable element has snapped to said second orientation.

27. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein two ends of said deformable element are clamped in said expansion chamber.

28. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said deformable element is clamped generally around its perimeter in said expansion chamber.

29. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said deformable element comprises a bimetallic element.

30. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein said deformable element comprises a shape memory alloy element.

31. Apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, comprising: a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid; a fluid outlet formed in said dispenser body; a spray nozzle in fluid communication with said dispenser body operative to spray said fluid from the container; and a safety valve operative to substantially prevent flow of said fluid through said spray nozzle even if said spray nozzle malfunctions.

32. Apparatus according to claim 31 wherein said safety spray valve comprises a stopper slidingly disposed in a bore formed in said dispenser body, said bore allowing fluid to flow from a container to said fluid outlet, wherein said stopper is adapted to slide towards an end of said bore, and be substantially sealingly retained thereat, by a force of pressurized contents of the container.

33. Apparatus according to claim 31 wherein said safety spray valve comprises a one-way valve that substantially prevents matter from flowing in a direction from said deformable element back into the container.

34. Apparatus according to claim 33 wherein said one-way valve comprises a ball disposed in a bore formed in said dispenser body, said ball not interfering with flow of fluid from the container towards said deformable element, but substantially preventing flow of fluid backwards towards the container.

35. Apparatus according to any of claims 31-34 wherein said spray valve is in fluid communication with contents of a spray container, said contents comprising a first substance, and a second substance which comprises at least one of a liquid portion and a gaseous portion, said spray valve further comprising a tube with a lower open end in fluid communication with said first substance, said tube being formed with at least one side aperture in fluid communication with said second substance.

36. Apparatus according to claim 35 wherein said at least one side aperture is in fluid communication with said liquid portion.

37. Apparatus according to claim 35 wherein said at least one side aperture is in fluid communication with said gaseous portion.

38. Apparatus according to any of claims 35-37 wherein when said spray valve dispenses said contents, an internal pressure of said container forces said first substance into said open end, and as said first substance rises in said tube, said second substance can enter said at least one side aperture and mix with said first substance, prior to said contents being sprayed.

39. Apparatus for spraying contents of a spray container, said contents comprising a first substance, and a second substance which comprises at least one of a liquid portion and a gaseous portion, said apparatus comprising: a tube with a lower open end in fluid communication with said first substance, said tube being formed with at least one side aperture in fluid communication with said second substance.

40. Apparatus according to claim 39 wherein said first substance is generally in a fluid state in said container.

41. Apparatus according to claim 39 wherein said first substance is generally in a solid state in said container.

42. Apparatus according to claim 39 wherein said tube is formed with a plurality of said side apertures, wherein one of said side apertures is in fluid communication with at least one of said liquid portion and said gaseous portion.

43. Apparatus according to claim 42 wherein one of said side apertures has a size different than another of said side apertures.

44. A method of dispensing a fluid from a container, comprising: providing a container containing a fluid; attaching a spray valve to said container, said spray valve comprising: a dispenser body sealingly attachable to a container containing a fluid; a fluid outlet formed in said dispenser body; a deformable element generally freely supported around a perimeter thereof in said dispenser body, said deformable element having a first orientation when in a reference temperature range and reversibly deforming to a second orientation when out of said reference temperature range, wherein in said first orientation said deformable element is operative to block passage of the fluid from the container and in said second orientation said deformable element is operative to allow passage of the fluid from the container; and placing said container with said spray valve attached thereto in an environment whose temperature is out of said reference temperature range, such that heat transfer between said deformable element and the environment brings said deformable element out of said reference temperature range after a period of time, whereupon said deformable element deforms to said second orientation, and said fluid flows from said container into said dispenser body and is dispensed out of said fluid outlet.

45. The method according to claim 44 further comprising transfeπing heat between said fluid and said deformable element when said deformable element is in said second orientation so as to bring said deformable element into said reference temperature range, such that said deformable element deforms from said second orientation to said first orientation, thereby preventing said fluid from exiting said dispenser body.

46. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising controlling dispensing of the fluid by selecting a desired size of said spray nozzle.

47. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising controlling dispensing of the fluid by selecting a desired size of said fluid outlet.

48. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising controlling dispensing of the fluid by constructing said deformable element of a bimetallic material with selected thermal properties and physical dimensions.

49. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising controlling dispensing of the fluid by directing said fluid to flow on a surface of said deformable element which faces said container, when said deformable element is in said second position.

50. The method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising controlling dispensing of the fluid by directing said fluid to flow on a surface of said deformable element which does not face said container, when said deformable element is in said second position.