DEVICE FOR APPLICATION OF SELF-ADHESIVE PRODUCTS FOR TOILET BOWLS

Abstract

 A device (1) for application of self-adhesive products for toilet bowls comprising: a self-adhesive product (2) for toilet bowls; an applicator (3) containing the self-adhesive product, said applicator comprising a thread engaging section (4); and a plunger (5) adapted to be inserted inside the applicator, said plunger comprising a threaded section (6) configured to be engaged by the thread engaging section upon insertion of the plunger inside the applicator; wherein the self-adhesive product is configured to be dispensed by screwing the plunger into the applicator. It is also proposed an applicator and a plunger for application of self-adhesive products for toilet bowls.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention pertains to the field of devices for application of self-adhesive products for toilet bowls, such as cleaning and/or disinfecting and/or deodorizing self-adhesive products.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Several solutions exist for applying self-adhesive products inside toilet bowls. Such devices make it possible for users to apply a self-adhesive product to the inner wall of a toilet bowl.

[0003] Conventional solutions consist in a device for application of a metered dose of self-adhesive products.

[0004] Such devices, disclosed for instance in document WO2007/008531 comprise a tubular body containing the self-adhesive product and a plunger. The user applies a manual force on the plunger, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular body, to slide the plunger relative to the tubular body. Within the device, a guide pin and through holes cooperate so that metered discrete doses of self-adhesive product are applied.

[0005] U.S. patent application US 2022/0363465 also discloses a pushing device for dispensing a plurality of flowable materials, preferably of different colours. The dispensing device comprises a tube including a plurality of chambers and a handle including a plurality of pusher bars. The tube and the handle move coaxially in translation with respect to one another to force the flowable materials out of the chambers.

[0006] According to these documents, the user has to simultaneously depress a guide pin and apply a forward movement. These devices may be difficult to manipulate by the users.

[0007] In addition, the user cannot precisely control the amount of self-adhesive product to be distributed as only metered discrete doses can be dispensed.

[0008] Accordingly, there is still a need to provide a device for application of self-adhesive products without suffering from the above-described drawbacks.

[0009] The present invention lies within this context.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for application of self-adhesive products for toilet bowls.

[0011] The device for application of self-adhesive products for toilet bowls comprises:

• a self-adhesive product for toilet bowls;
• an applicator containing the self-adhesive product, said applicator comprising a thread engaging section; and
• a plunger adapted to be inserted inside the applicator, said plunger comprising a threaded section configured to be engaged by the thread engaging section upon insertion of the plunger inside the applicator;

wherein the self-adhesive product is configured to be dispensed by screwing the plunger into the applicator.

[0012] The device according to the present invention enables easy dispensing of the self-adhesive product by applying a screwing movement. The user does not need to apply complex movements combining translations in different directions to dispense the self-adhesive product, as occurs in the prior art.

[0013] In addition, the user can choose freely to dispense any quantity of self-adhesive product, by screwing more or less the plunger inside the applicator. The user has a much higher control of the quantity of self-adhesive product dispensed compared to the prior art devices. The device according to the present invention does not dispense metered dose of self-adhesive products.

[0014] According to preferred embodiments, the proposed device may also comprise at least one of the following additional features:

• the thread engaging section comprises at least one first projection configured to cooperate with at least one second projection on the threaded section, to produce an audible noise and/or tactile feedback when the plunger is screwed into the applicator.
• the applicator comprises a tubular wall extending along a longitudinal direction, a proximal end and a distal end having a discharge opening.
• the thread engaging section is located on an inner surface of the tubular wall of the applicator.
• the thread engaging section is located on an upper portion of the tubular wall of the applicator and the self-adhesive product is located on a lower portion of the tubular wall of the applicator.
• the tubular wall of the applicator comprises a smooth section and a thread engaging section.
• the thread engaging section is located above the smooth section.
• the thread engaging section comprises a helical ramp.
• the thread engaging section comprises a continuous helical ramp.
• the thread engaging section comprises a single continuous helical ramp.
• the helical ramp has an angular development of less than 3 turns, less than 2 turns or less than 1,5 turns.
• the helical ramp has an angular development of less than 1080°, less than 720°, less than 540° or less than 470°.
• the helical ramp has an angular development of more than 360°.
• the helical ramp is located above the self-adhesive product.
• the proximal end of the applicator is covered by a peelable film.
• the distal end of the applicator is covered by a removable lid.
• the tubular wall of the applicator is transparent.
• an outer surface of the tubular wall of the applicator comprises measurement markings.
• the distal end of the applicator comprises a plurality of protrusions extending along the longitudinal direction.
• the plurality of protrusions comprises a beveled and/or a rounded shape.
• the plunger comprises a tubular wall, a proximal end, and a distal end with a pushing face.
• the threaded section is located on an outer surface of the tubular wall of the plunger.
• the threaded section comprises a helical slot.
• the threaded section comprises a continuous helical slot.
• the threaded section comprises a single continuous helical slot.
• the thread profile of the helical slot is trapezoidal or round.
• the threaded section comprises at least one projection configured to cooperate with at least one projection on the thread engaging section, to produce an audible noise and/or tactile feedback when the plunger is screwed into the applicator.
• the proximal end of the plunger further comprises gripping means.
• the gripping means protrude radially from the tubular wall of the plunger and are configured to form abutment means against the proximal end of the applicator when the plunger is inserted and fully screwed inside the applicator.
• the tubular wall of the plunger comprises a helical through slot.
• the tubular wall of the plunger comprises at least two reinforcing ribs extending across the helical through slot.
• the applicator is hollow and the tubular wall of the applicator defines a single cavity.
• the at least one first projection of the threaded section of the plunger, preferably all the projections of the threaded section, has a thickness thinner than the depth of the helical slot of the tubular wall of the plunger.
• the ratio between the pitch of the helical slot of the tubular wall of the plunger and the height the plunger is ranging from 0.05 to 0.3, or from 0.07 to 0.2, or from 0.008 to 0.15.

[0015] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there also is provided an applicator for application of self-adhesive products for toilet bowls. Said applicator is interrelated with the plunger according to a third aspect of the present invention. The applicator and the plunger work together to dispense self-adhesive products.

[0016] The applicator contains a self-adhesive product for toilet bowls and comprises a thread engaging section; and

• said applicator is configured to cooperate with a plunger adapted to be inserted inside the applicator, said plunger comprising a threaded section;
• said thread engaging section is configured to engage the threaded section of the plunger upon insertion of the plunger inside the applicator; and
• the self-adhesive product is configured to be dispensed by screwing the plunger into the applicator.

[0017] According to preferred embodiments of said second aspect, the proposed applicator may also comprise at least one of the following additional features:

• the thread engaging section comprises at least one first projection configured to cooperate with at least one second projection on the threaded section, to produce an audible noise and/or tactile feedback when the plunger is screwed into the applicator.
• the applicator comprises a tubular wall extending along a longitudinal direction, a proximal end and a distal end having a discharge opening.
• the thread engaging section is located on an inner surface of the tubular wall of the applicator.
• the thread engaging section is located on an upper portion of the tubular wall of the applicator and the self-adhesive product is located on a lower portion of the tubular wall of the applicator.
• the tubular wall comprises a smooth section and a thread engaging section.
• the thread engaging section is located above the smooth section.
• the thread engaging section comprises a helical ramp.
• the thread engaging section comprises a continuous helical ramp.
• the thread engaging section comprises a single continuous helical ramp.
• the helical ramp has an angular development of less than 3 turns, less than 2 turns or less than 1,5 turns.
• the helical ramp has an angular development of less than 1080°, less than 720°, less than 540° or less than 470°.
• the helical ramp has an angular development of more than 360°.
• the helical ramp is located above the self-adhesive product.
• the proximal end of the applicator is covered by a peelable film.
• the distal end of the applicator is covered by a removable lid.
• the tubular wall of the applicator is transparent.
• an outer surface of the tubular wall of the applicator comprises measurement markings.
• the distal end of the applicator comprises a plurality of protrusions extending along the longitudinal direction.
• the applicator is hollow and the tubular wall of the applicator defines a single cavity.

[0018] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is also provided a plunger for application of self-adhesive products for toilet bowls. Said plunger is interrelated with the applicator according to the second aspect of the present invention. The applicator and the plunger work together to dispense self-adhesive products.

[0019] The plunger comprises a threaded section and is adapted to be inserted inside an applicator, said applicator containing a self-adhesive product for toilet bowls and comprising a thread engaging section; wherein

• the threaded section is configured to be engaged by the thread engaging section of the applicator upon insertion of the plunger inside the applicator; and
• the self-adhesive product is configured to be dispensed by screwing the plunger into the applicator.

[0020] According to preferred embodiments of said third aspect, the proposed plunger may also comprise at least one of the following additional features:

• the plunger comprises a tubular wall, a proximal end, and a distal end with a pushing face.
• the threaded section is located on an outer surface of the tubular wall of the plunger.
• the threaded section comprises a helical slot.
• the threaded section comprises a continuous helical slot.
• the threaded section comprises a single continuous helical slot.
• the thread profile of the helical slot is trapezoidal or round.
• the threaded section comprises at least one first projection configured to cooperate with at least one second projection on the thread engaging section, to produce an audible noise and/or tactile feedback when the plunger is screwed into the applicator.
• the proximal end of the plunger further comprises gripping means.
• the gripping means protrude radially from the tubular wall of the plunger and are configured to form abutment means against the proximal end of the applicator when the plunger is inserted and fully screwed inside the applicator.
• the tubular wall of the plunger comprises a helical through slot.
• the tubular wall of the plunger comprises at least two reinforcing ribs extending across the helical through slot.
• the at least one first projection of the threaded section of the tubular wall of the plunger has a thickness thinner than the depth of the helical slot of the tubular wall of the plunger.
• the ratio between the pitch of the helical slot of the tubular wall of the plunger and the height the plunger is ranging from 0.05 to 0.3, or from 0.07 to 0.2, or from 0.008 to 0.15.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description, given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the device according to one embodiment of the invention wherein the self-adhesive product is not represented.

Figure 2 illustrates a sectional view of the device according to one embodiment of the invention wherein the self-adhesive product is not represented. An enlarged partial view of the threaded section and the thread engaging section of this embodiment is also illustrated.

Figure 3 illustrates the device according to one embodiment of the invention with a sectional view of the applicator.

Figure 4 illustrates the application of the device on a toilet bowl and the dispensing of the self-adhesive product.

Figure 5 illustrates the device according to one embodiment of the invention, before use.

Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of the device according to one embodiment of the invention wherein the self-adhesive product is not represented.

Figure 7 illustrates the device according to one embodiment of the invention wherein the self-adhesive product is not represented and wherein a part of the tubular body has been removed to illustrate the projections. An enlarged partial view of the threaded section and the thread engaging section of this embodiment is also illustrated.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] With reference to the figures, the device 1 according to the invention comprises an applicator 3, inside which a self-adhesive product 2 is accommodated, and a plunger 5.

[0023] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the applicator 3 and the plunger 5.

[0024] The applicator 3 comprises a thread engaging section 4 cooperating with the threaded section 6 of the plunger 5 so that the plunger 5 can be screwed within the applicator 3. The screwing movement of the plunger 5 within the applicator 3 pushes forward the self-adhesive product (not represented) contained within the applicator 3. Due to the cooperation between the thread engaging section 4 and the threaded section 6, the plunger 5, after being inserted into the applicator 3, can only move in a screwing or unscrewing movement. According to the invention, the screwing movement is performed in a clockwise rotation and the unscrewing is performed in an anticlockwise rotation.

[0025] The applicator 3 has the shape of a tubular body comprising a tubular wall 9 extending along a longitudinal direction D, a proximal end 10 and a distal end 11. The plunger 5 has the shape of a hollow tubular body comprising a tubular wall 18 extending along the longitudinal direction D, a proximal end 19 and a distal end 20.

[0026] As illustrated in Figure 2, the applicator 3 and the plunger 5 are hollow tubular bodies.

[0027] The tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 comprises an inner surface 13 and an outer surface 14. The tubular wall 9 defines a cavity 15 accommodating the self-adhesive product (not represented). Preferably, the applicator is hollow and the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 defines a single cavity 15. In other words, the applicator 3 comprises a single cavity 15 and does not include a plurality of chambers. This embodiment enables to facilitate the manufacture of the applicator 3.

[0028] The thread engaging section 4 is located on the inner surface 13 of the tubular wall 9. The applicator 3 comprises a single tubular wall 9 in order to ease the manufacturing process of the device 1. The outer surface 14 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 has preferably a constant diameter. The outer surface 14 of the tubular wall 9 does not comprise any protrusion. The inner surface 13 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 has a constant diameter except at the level of the thread engaging section 4.

[0029] The distal end 11 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 comprises a discharge opening 12, preferably a single discharge opening 12. The discharge opening 12 may have a smaller diameter than the diameter of the inner surface 13 in order to dispense the self-adhesive product 2 with a specific shape. As depicted in Figure 2, the discharge opening 12 may comprise an opening having the shape of a plurality of petals.

[0030] The proximal end 10 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 is open.

[0031] The tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 comprises an outer surface 22 and an inner surface 23. The threaded section 6 is located on the outer surface 22 of the tubular wall 18. The applicator 6 comprises, and preferably consists of, a single tubular wall 18 in order to ease the manufacturing process of the device 1. The outer surface 22 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 has a constant diameter except at the level of the threaded section 6. The inner surface 23 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 has preferably a constant diameter.

[0032] The distal end 20 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 is closed by a pushing face 21. Preferably, the distal end 20 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 is entirely closed by a single pushing face 21. The pushing face 21 is configured to push the self-adhesive product 2 during the screwing movement. The pushing face 21 is integral with the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5. Preferably, the pushing face 21 is also integral with the gripping means 24. The pushing face 21 may be flat. The pushing face 21 may alternatively have a convex shape oriented towards the distal end 20, such as a rounded or conical shape. Such embodiment enables the center of the pushing face 21 to push the self-adhesive product 2 through the discharge opening 12 when the plunger 5 reaches the distal end 11 of the applicator 3.According to one embodiment, the height of the pushing face, i.e. the distance along the longitudinal direction D between the center of the pushing face and the periphery of the pushing face is ranging from 1 to 15mm, from 2 to 10mm or from 4 to 8mm.

[0033] According to the invention, the pushing face 21 and the distal end 11 of the tubular wall 9 have complementary shapes. Thus, the distal end 11 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 may be flat or have a convex shape. This embodiment enables to maximize the discharge of the self-adhesive product.

[0034] The proximal end 19 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 is preferably open for manufacturing reasons.

[0035] The diameter of the inner surface 13 of the applicator 3 and the diameter of the outer surface 22 of the plunger 5 are configured so that the applicator 3 exactly receives the plunger.

[0036] As depicted in the figures, the plunger 5 is preferably hollow for manufacturing reasons. However, as it is apparent to the skilled person, the plunger 5 may also be full. In such embodiment, the plunger 5 may be a full tubular body without inner surface.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the ratio between the height of the plunger 5, i.e. the distance along the longitudinal direction D between the proximal end 19 and the distal end 20 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5, and the diameter of the outer surface 22 of the plunger 5 is ranging from 2.5 to 4, or from 3 to 3.5.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the height of the plunger 5 is ranging from 70mm to 150mm, from 80mm to 140mm, or from 90mm to 130mm.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the diameter of the outer surface 22 of the plunger 5 is ranging from 20mm to 50mm, preferably from 30mm to 40mm.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the ratio between the height of the applicator 3, i.e. the distance along the longitudinal direction D between the proximal end 10 and the distal end 11 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3, and the diameter of the inner surface 13 of the applicator 3 is ranging from 2.5 and 4, or from 3 and 3.5.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the height of the applicator 3 is ranging from 70mm to 130mm, from 80mm to 120mm, or from 90mm to 110 mm.

[0042] It is understood that the diameter of the outer surface 22 of the plunger 5 is similar to the diameter of the inner surface 13 of the applicator 3. In other words, the diameter of the inner surface 13 of the applicator 3 and the diameter of the outer surface 22 of the plunger 5 are configured so that the applicator 3 exactly receives the plunger.

[0043] As depicted in Figure 3, the applicator contains a self-adhesive product 2.

[0044] The self-adhesive product 2 may be any agent for the sanitary sector, which can be applied directly on a sanitary object, such as a toilet bowl, adheres there and can be flushed away only after a relatively large number of flushing operations. The self-adhesive product 2 may be a cleaning and/or a disinfecting and/or a deodorizing agent.

[0045] In other words, the self-adhesive product 2 may be an adhesive gel suitable for application to a hard surface that can be cleaned with water washing over the hard surface, or an adhesive gel suitable for application to a toilet, urinal, bathtub or shower.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the self-adhesive product 2 is a composition comprising an adhesion promoter and a surfactant. According to one embodiment, the self-adhesive product 2 is a composition comprising an adhesion promoter in an amount expressed in dry content of from 40 to 65% by weight and a surfactant in an amount expressed in dry content of from 25 to 50% by weight.

[0047] The self-adhesive product 2 is not a dental product.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the self-adhesive product 2 is expelled from the discharged opening 12 coaxially with respect to the longitudinal direction D, and not laterally. This embodiment enables to fully empty the applicator 3.

[0049] Figure 3 further illustrates the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 comprising at its proximal end 19 gripping means 24. The gripping means 24 facilitates handling of the plunger 5 and application of a screwing force by the user. The gripping means 24 protrudes radially from the outer surface 22 of the tubular wall 18. Thus, the gripping means 24 form abutment means 25 configured to abut against the proximal end 10 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 once the plunger 5 has been fully screwed within the applicator 3.

[0050] The outer surface 22 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 comprise the threaded section 6. The threaded section 6 comprises a helical slot, preferably one continuous helical slot. The helical slot 6 is continuous from the distal end 20 of the plunger 5 to below the gripping means 24. The helical slot starts from the distal end of the plunger 5 and ends below the gripping means 24.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the thread profile of the helical slot is trapezoidal, or round. In other words, the cross-sectional shape (also referred as the "thread profile") of the helical slot 6 is trapezoidal or round. This embodiment aids with the tooling of the plunger 5. In addition, these embodiments benefit from a wide root (the distance between adjacent flanks is higher than in V-thread profile), thereby facilitating the positioning of the at least one first projections 7 on the root.

[0052] According to embodiment, the width the thread profile of the helical slot 6, i.e. the distance between two adjacent crests of the helical slot 6) is ranging from 2.5mm and 4.5mm, preferably from 3mm and 4mm.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the ratio between the pitch of the helical slot 6 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 and the height of the plunger 5 is ranging from 0.05 to 0.3, or from 0.07 to 0.2, or from 0.08 and 0.15.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the pitch of the helical slot 6 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5 is ranging from 5mm to 20mm, or from 10mm to 15mm.The inner surface 13 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 comprises the thread engaging section 4. The thread engaging section 4 comprises a helical ramp, preferably one continuous helical ramp. The thickness of the helical ramp is configured to be received within the depth of the helical slot. The helical ramp comprises a limited angular development. According to one embodiment, the helical ramp has an angular development of less than 3 turns, less than 2 turns or less than 1,5 turns. According to one embodiment, the helical ramp has an angular development of less than 1080°, less than 720°, less than 540° or less than 470°. According to one embodiment, the helical ramp has an angular development of more than 360°. According to one embodiment, the limited angular development of the helical ramp enables to define a cavity 15 below the helical ramp with a smooth inner surface (i.e., without slots, openings, ramps, or protrusions). Thus, the self-adhesive product 2 contained in the cavity 15 does not stick to the helical ramp or any other element. According to one embodiment, the cavity 15 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3, preferably the cavity 15 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 below the helical ramp, defines a volume comprised between 30mL and 100mL, preferably between 50mL and 80mL, more preferably between 70mL and 80mL.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the thread engaging section 4 is located at or close to the proximal end 10 of the applicator 3.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the helical ramp of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 has a similar pitch than the helical slot 6 of tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the inner surface 13 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator comprises a smooth section defining a cavity 15 for accommodating the self-adhesive product 2 and the thread engaging section 4. The thread engaging section 4 is located above the smooth section.

[0058] As depicted in Figure 3, the distal end 11 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 comprises a plurality of protrusions 17 extending along the longitudinal direction D. The distal end may comprise 3, 4, 5 or more protrusions 17. The protrusions 17 are configured to rest on the sanitary surface during application of the self-adhesive product 2. The protrusions minimize the contact with the sanitary surface and thus decrease the risk of contamination of the device 1. The protrusions 17 are preferably regularly positioned along the perimeter of the distal end 11 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3. The protrusions 17 comprise preferably a beveled and/or a rounded shape.

[0059] Figure 4 illustrates the application of the self-adhesive product 2 on a toilet bowl 28. A quantity of the self-adhesive product 2 is expelled through the discharge opening 12 of the applicator 3 when the user turns the plunger 5 within the applicator 3 by applying a screwing movement of the plunger 5 with respect to the applicator 3. The application of the self-adhesive product 2 is carried out by resting the protrusions 17 of the applicator 3 on the surface of the toilet bowl 28 and then by screwing the plunger 5 within the applicator 3. The quantity of self-adhesive product 2 applied on the toilet bowl 28 is freely controlled by the user depending on the screwing movement. After the screwing movement, the user can remove the applicator 3 from the surface on the toilet bowl 28. As the self-adhesive product 2 adheres on the toilet bowl, the deposited quantity will rest on the toilet bowl 28.

[0060] According to one embodiment, as depicted in Figure 5, the device 1 according to the present invention may comprise, before use, two separate parts. A first part comprises the plunger 5. A second part comprises the applicator 3 containing the self-adhesive product 2 inside. The applicator 3 is covered at the proximal end 10 of the tubular wall 9 by a peelable film 29 and at the distal end 11 of the tubular wall 9 by a protective lid 30. Before the first application, the peelable film 29 has to be removed in order to insert the plunger 5 inside the applicator 3 by applying a screwing movement of the plunger 5 within the applicator 3. Before each application, the user has also to remove a protective lid 30 which covers the distal end 11 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3. After applying a quantity of the self-adhesive product 2, the user replaces the protective lid 30. In order to facilitate handling of the protective lid 30, the protective lid 30 may include a flange. The protective lid 30 is configured to snap fit on the outer surface 14 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3. The protective lid 30 is preferably flat so that the device 1 or the applicator 3 can stand up on a surface when not used.

[0061] According to embodiment, the plunger 5 may be reused. Once the cavity 15 of the applicator 3 is void of self-adhesive product 2, the plunger 5 may be unscrewed from the applicator 3 and reused with another applicator.

[0062] According to one embodiment, also illustrated in Figure 5, the outer surface 14 of the tubular wall 9 of the applicator 3 is transparent and the outer surface 14 of the tubular wall 9 comprises measurements markings 16. Thus, the user may easily know the quantity of self-adhesive product 2 that is expelled during application and that is still contained in the cavity 15 after application. In addition, the inner surface 13 of the tubular wall 9 may remain smooth.

[0063] Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the plunger 5 wherein the tubular wall 18 comprises at least one helical through slot 26. The helical through slot 26 is located between two successive turns of the helical slot 6. Preferably, the tubular wall 18 comprises a plurality of helical through slots 26. When the plunger 5 comprises a plurality of helical through slots 26, the plunger also comprises reinforcing ribs 27 between the helical through slots 26. The helical through slot(s) enables to decrease the quantity of material needed for manufacturing the plunger 5. According to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, the plunger 5 has at least one first projection 7 on the helical slot 6 (not shown) as explained hereafter.

[0064] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate an embodiment of the plunger 5 and the applicator 3 wherein the threaded section 6 comprises at least one first projection 7 and wherein the thread engaging section 4 comprises at least one second projection 8. The at least one first projection 7 on the threaded section 6 is configured to cooperate with at least one second projection 8 on the thread engaging section 4 to produce an audible noise and/or tactile feedback when the plunger 5 is screwed into the applicator 3.As depicted in Figures 6 and 7, the thread engaging section 4 comprises one second projection 8, preferably at the proximal end 10 of the helical ramp, and the threaded section 6 comprises a plurality of first projections 7. The plurality of projections 7 are preferably regularly disposed along the helical slot of the threaded section 6. For instance, adjacent projections 7 are spaced apart by 180°, 270° or 360°.

[0065] The plurality of first projections 7 protrudes from the helical slot. Each first projections 7 may be a pin or lug located within the depth of the helical slot 6. The plurality of first projections 7 do not protrude from the outer surface 22 of the tubular wall 18 of the plunger 5. Preferably, the thickness of the first projections 7 is thinner than the depth of the helical slot 6 of the plunger 5.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the at least one first projection 7 protrudes from the root of helical slot 6.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the ratio between the height of the at least one first projection 7 (i.e. the distance between the root of the helical slot 6 and the top of the at least one first projection 7), and the depth of the helical slot 6 (i.e. the distance between the root and the crest of the helical slot 6) is ranging from 0.2 and 0.9, from 0.3 and 0.8, or from 0.4 to 0.7.

[0068] According to embodiment, all the first projections 7 have the same height.

[0069] As illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the first projection 7 of the threaded section 6 of the plunger 5 close to the distal end 20 is spaced from the distal end 20.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the first projection 7 is angularly spaced from the distal end 20 along the helical slot 6 by more than 90°, preferably more or equal than 180°. Theses embodiments enable an easier engagement of the applicator 3 in the plunger 5.

[0071] The second projection 8 protrudes from the helical ramp. The second projection 8 may be a pin or lug having a thickness thicker than the thickness of the helical ramp.

[0072] The second projection 8 on the thread engaging section 4 of the applicator 3 is configured to engage the plurality of first projections 7 of the threaded section 6 of the plunger 5 to produce an audible noise and/or tactile feedback when the plunger 5 is screwed into the applicator 3. Thus, the user may be notified of the quantity of the self-adhesive product expelled without having to dispense a metered dose of self-adhesive product. According to the invention, the user can choose to dispense the self-adhesive product 2 according to the audible noise and/or tactile feedback produced when the plunger 5 is screwed into the applicator 3, or to freely select the amount of self-adhesive product 2 to be dispensed.

[0073] If adjacent projections 7 are spaced apart by 180°, 270° or 360°, the user is notified by an audible noise and/or tactile feedback per respectively 180°, 270° or 360° of rotation of the plunger with respect to the applicator 3. It is reminded that the user may dispense or dose or any other amount that seems suitable.

[0074] The at least one first projection 7 on the threaded section 6 of the plunger 5 and the second projection 8 of the thread engaging section 4 of the applicator 3 does not form pawls. In other words, the projections allow for relative screwing and unscrewing movement of the plunger and applicator. This embodiment enables to facilitate the use of the device 1.

[0075] According to the invention, the device 1 enables to dispense between 5 and 12 doses of the self-adhesive product 2 before refiling or replacing the applicator 3. A dose of self-adhesive product 2 is defined by the amount of self-adhesive product 2 between two adjacent projections 7.

[0076] According to the one embodiment, when the adjacent projections 7 are spaced apart by 180°, the applicator 3 comprises between 10 and 14 projections. Thus, the device 1 may dispense between 10 and 12 doses of self-adhesive product 2.

[0077] According to the one embodiment, when the adjacent projections 7 are spaced apart by 270°, the application 3 comprises between 8 and 10 projections. Thus, the device 1 may dispense between 7 and 9 doses of self-adhesive product 2.

[0078] According to the one embodiment, when the adjacent projections 7 are spaced apart by 360°, the application 3 comprises between 5 and 7 projections. Thus, the device 1 may dispense between 5 and 7 doses of self-adhesive product 2.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the applicator 3 and the plunger 5 consisting essentially of one type of material. In the present context, the term "consisting essentially" is meant to exclude any component or mixtures of component. Typically, this term defines that at least 90% w/w of the composition of the applicator 3 and of the plunger 5 is made of the same material, preferably at least 95% w/w and more preferably at least 98% w/w. As the applicator 3 and the plunger 5 consists essentially of one type of material, the device may be easily recycled. According to one embodiment, the applicator 3 and the plunger 5 consisting essentially of a thermoplastic polymer. According to one embodiment, the applicator 3 and the plunger 5 consisting essentially of a recyclable thermoplastic polymer. According to one embodiment, the applicator 3 and the plunger 5 consisting essentially of polypropylene.

[0080] While various embodiments, have been described and illustrated, the details description and drawings should not be considered as restrictive but merely exemplary and illustrative. Various modifications can be made to the embodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A device (1) for application of self-adhesive products for toilet bowls comprising:

- a self-adhesive product (2) for toilet bowls;

- an applicator (3) containing the self-adhesive product, said applicator comprising a thread engaging section (4); and

- a plunger (5) adapted to be inserted inside the applicator (3), said plunger (5) comprising a threaded section (6) configured to be engaged by the thread engaging section (4) upon insertion of the plunger (5) inside the applicator (3); wherein the self-adhesive product (2) is configured to be dispensed by screwing the plunger (5) into the applicator (3).

2. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the threaded section (6) comprises at least one first projection (7) configured to cooperate with at least one second projection (8) on the thread engaging section (4), to produce an audible noise and/or tactile feedback when the plunger (5) is screwed into the applicator (3).

3. The device (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the applicator (3) comprises a tubular wall (9) extending along a longitudinal direction (D), a proximal end (10) and a distal end (11) having a discharge opening (12); and wherein the thread engaging section (4) is located on an inner surface (13) of the tubular wall (9) of the applicator (3).

4. The device (1) according to anyone of claims 1 to 3, wherein the thread engaging section (4) comprises a helical ramp.

5. The device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the helical ramp has an angular development of less than 2 turns.

6. The device (1) according to anyone of claims 3 to 5, wherein the proximal end (10) is preferably covered by a peelable film (29).

7. The device (1) according to anyone of claims 3 to 6, wherein the tubular wall (9) of the applicator (3) is transparent, and an outer surface (14) of the tubular wall comprises measurement markings (16).

8. The device (1) according to anyone of claims 3 to 7, wherein the distal end (11) comprises a plurality of protrusions (17) extending along the longitudinal direction (D).

9. The device (1) according to anyone of claim 1 to 8, wherein the plunger (5) comprises a tubular wall (18), a proximal end (19) and a distal end (20) with a pushing face (21); and wherein the threaded section (6) is located on an outer surface (22) of the tubular wall (18) of the plunger (5).

10. The device (1) according to anyone of claims 1 to 9, wherein the threaded section (6) comprises a helical slot.

11. The device (1) according to claims 9 or 10, wherein the proximal end (19) of the plunger (5) further comprises gripping means (24).

12. The device (1) according to claim 11, wherein the gripping means (24) protrude radially from the tubular wall (18) of the plunger (5) and are configured to form abutment means (25) against the proximal end (11) of the applicator (3).

13. The device (1) according to anyone of claims 9 to 12, wherein the tubular wall (18) of the plunger (5) comprises a helical through slot (26).

14. The device (1) according to claim 13, wherein the tubular wall (18) of the plunger (5) comprises at least two reinforcing ribs (27) extending across the helical through slot (26).

15. An applicator (3) for application of self-adhesive products (2) for toilet bowls, said applicator (3) containing a self-adhesive product (2) for toilet bowls and comprising a thread engaging section (4); wherein

- said applicator (3) is configured to cooperate with a plunger (5) adapted to be inserted inside the applicator (3), said plunger (5) comprising a threaded section (6);

- said thread engaging section (4) is configured to engage the threaded section 6) of the plunger (5) upon insertion of the plunger (5) inside the applicator (3); and

- the self-adhesive product (2) is configured to be dispensed by screwing the plunger (5) into the applicator (3).

16. A plunger (5) for application of self-adhesive products (2) for toilet bowls, said plunger (5) comprising a threaded section (6), and being adapted to be inserted inside an applicator (3), said applicator (3) containing a self-adhesive product (2) for toilet bowls and comprising a thread engaging section (4); wherein

- the threaded section (6) is configured to be engaged by the thread engaging section (4) of the applicator (3) upon insertion of the plunger (5) inside the applicator (3); and

- the self-adhesive product (2) is configured to be dispensed by screwing the plunger (5) into the applicator (3).

Drawing