EP3573891B1 - Method for manufacturing a device for dispensing a product - Google Patents

Description

Technical area

The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a device for dispensing a product.

The field of the invention is more particularly that of the distribution of products such as liquids, gels or creams, for example for the pharmaceutical or cosmetic or agro-food industry.

State of the prior art

EP 0 349 396 describes a method of packaging a product in the form of a tube comprising a head provided with a dispensing valve.

EP 0 509 179 describes a process for vacuum packaging products inside reservoirs closed by a member without air intake.

EP 0 928 635 describes a packaging device comprising a reservoir filled under vacuum.

• une chambre déformable,
• un réservoir,
• une valve de distribution pour la sortie du produit de la chambre vers l'extérieur du dispositif,
• une valve d'alimentation pour le passage du produit du réservoir vers la chambre.

Devices are known for dispensing products such as, for example, that described in the patent. FR 3 005 459 A1 . Such a device comprises:

• a deformable chamber,
• a reservoir,
• a dispensing valve for the outlet of the product from the chamber to the outside of the device,
• a supply valve for the passage of the product from the reservoir to the chamber.

This device, even if it is good, can still be improved because it still poses some technical problems.

A first problem is that of priming, that is to say when the chamber is filled with air when the device is new, and a user presses on the chamber so as to pump the product from the reservoir. trying to fill the room.

• si la valve d'alimentation est souple notamment pour un produit à distribuer très visqueux, et/ou
• si la valve de distribution est très rigide. En effet, la valve de distribution est une porte privilégiée pour l'entrée de bactéries et oxygène dans le réservoir. Plus la valve de distribution est étanche

et donc rigide, plus le dispositif est difficile à amorcer, c'est-à-dire que le gaz initialement présent dans la chambre a des difficultés pour sortir par la valve de distribution et le gaz initialement contenu dans la chambre va aller plutôt vers le réservoir en traversant la valve d'alimentation.This problem is particularly true:

• if the supply valve is flexible, in particular for a very viscous product to be dispensed, and / or
• if the dispensing valve is very rigid. Indeed, the distribution valve is a privileged door for the entry of bacteria and oxygen into the tank. The more watertight the dispensing valve

and therefore rigid, the more difficult the device is to prime, that is to say that the gas initially present in the chamber has difficulty exiting through the distribution valve and the gas initially contained in the chamber will rather go towards the tank by passing through the supply valve.

Thus for priming, by pressing on the chamber, air can pass through the supply valve rather than through the distribution valve. It is then difficult to bring the product up from the reservoir into the chamber.

The aim of the present invention is to provide a method of manufacturing a product dispensing device making it possible to solve this problem.

Disclosure of the invention

• une étape de mise sous vide dans laquelle on créé une dépression dans une chambre déformable par rapport à une pression de référence
• une étape de remplissage dans laquelle on remplit un réservoir avec du produit,
• une fourniture d'un dispositif comprenant le réservoir, ledit réservoir étant relié à la chambre déformable et étant muni d'une ouverture de remplissage, l'intérieur de la chambre déformable étant délimité au moins en partie par une paroi mobile dont un déplacement provoque une variation du volume de la chambre déformable et :
  • o étant séparé du réservoir au moins par une valve d'alimentation, et/ou
  • o étant séparé d'une sortie du dispositif au moins par une valve de distribution, puis

les étapes de mise sous vide, remplissage et fourniture étant mise en œuvre de sorte que dans un état dit « intermédiaire » du dispositif le réservoir soit rempli de produit alors que l'intérieur de la chambre déformable soit à une pression intermédiaire inférieure à la pression de référence,

• une étape de fermeture dans laquelle on scelle ou ferme l'ouverture de remplissage.

This objective is achieved with a method of manufacturing a product dispenser device, comprising:

• a vacuum step in which a vacuum is created in a deformable chamber with respect to a reference pressure
• a filling step in which a tank is filled with product,
• a supply of a device comprising the reservoir, said reservoir being connected to the deformable chamber and being provided with a filling opening, the interior of the deformable chamber being delimited at least in part by a movable wall, a movement of which causes a variation of the volume of the deformable chamber and:
  • o being separated from the reservoir at least by a supply valve, and / or
  • o being separated from an outlet of the device at least by a dispensing valve, then

the stages of evacuating, filling and supply being implemented so that in a so-called "intermediate" state of the device the tank is filled with product while the interior of the deformable chamber is at an intermediate pressure lower than the reference pressure,

• a closing step in which the filling opening is sealed or closed.

• le procédé selon l'invention peut comprendre l'étape de mise sous vide et l'étape de remplissage, puis un assemblage de la chambre déformable et du réservoir de manière à former le dispositif et mettre en oeuvre l'étape de fourniture du dispositif ; l'étape de fermeture est de préférence réalisée lors de l'assemblage de la chambre déformable et du réservoir, ou
• le procédé selon l'invention peut être un procédé de fabrication d'un dispositif distributeur de produit, comprenant :
  ∘ une fourniture d'un dispositif comprenant un réservoir, ledit réservoir étant relié à une chambre déformable et étant muni d'une ouverture de remplissage, l'intérieur de la chambre déformable étant délimité au moins en partie par une paroi mobile dont un déplacement provoque une variation du volume de la chambre déformable, le dispositif comprenant une sortie

puis, quel que soit l'ordre des étapes suivantes :

• ∘ une étape de mise sous vide dans laquelle on créé une dépression dans la chambre déformable par rapport à une pression de référence et une étape de remplissage dans laquelle on remplit le réservoir avec du produit, de sorte que dans un état dit « intermédiaire » du dispositif le réservoir soit rempli de produit alors que l'intérieur de la chambre déformable soit à une pression intermédiaire inférieure à la pression de référence,
• ∘ une étape de fermeture dans laquelle on scelle ou ferme l'ouverture de remplissage.

L'intérieur de la chambre déformable peut :

• ∘ être séparé du réservoir au moins par une valve d'alimentation, et/ou
• ∘ être séparé de la sortie du dispositif au moins par une valve de distribution, puis

According to different embodiments:

• the method according to the invention may comprise the step of placing under vacuum and the step of filling, then an assembly of the deformable chamber and of the reservoir so as to form the device and implement the step of supplying the device; the closing step is preferably carried out during the assembly of the deformable chamber and the reservoir, or
• the method according to the invention can be a method of manufacturing a product dispenser device, comprising:
  ∘ a supply of a device comprising a reservoir, said reservoir being connected to a deformable chamber and being provided with a filling opening, the interior of the deformable chamber being delimited at least in part by a movable wall, a movement of which causes a variation in the volume of the deformable chamber, the device comprising an outlet

then, regardless of the order of the following steps:

• ∘ a vacuum step in which a vacuum is created in the deformable chamber with respect to a reference pressure and a filling step in which the tank is filled with product, so that in a so-called "intermediate" state of the device the reservoir is filled with product while the interior of the deformable chamber is at an intermediate pressure lower than the reference pressure,
• ∘ a closing step in which the filling opening is sealed or closed.

The interior of the deformable chamber can:

• ∘ be separated from the tank at least by one supply valve, and / or
• ∘ be separated from the outlet of the device by at least one dispensing valve, then

The method according to the invention further comprises, after the closing step, a priming step during which the product is brought from the reservoir to the interior of the deformable chamber.

• en exerçant une force sur le réservoir depuis l'extérieur du réservoir, de préférence par des moyens mécaniques, et/ou
• en soumettant la valve de distribution et/ou la valve d'alimentation à des vibrations, et/ou
• en ouvrant directement la valve de distribution et/ou la valve d'alimentation par une action mécanique, par exemple en appuyant dessus.

The priming step can be implemented:

• by exerting a force on the reservoir from outside the reservoir, preferably by mechanical means, and / or
• by subjecting the dispensing valve and / or the supply valve to vibrations, and / or
• by directly opening the dispensing valve and / or the supply valve by mechanical action, for example by pressing it.

The priming step may include increasing the pressure around the reservoir to the reference pressure.

The priming step can start while the interior of the deformable chamber is at a priming pressure lower than the reference pressure.

• on peut faire varier le volume de la chambre (i.e. de préférence déplacer la paroi mobile de la chambre) de manière à augmenter le volume de la chambre et/ou de manière à diminuer le volume de la chambre, et/ou
• on peut soumettre la valve de distribution et/ou la valve d'alimentation à des vibrations, et/ou
• on peut ouvrir directement la valve de distribution et/ou la valve d'alimentation par une action mécanique, par exemple en appuyant dessus.

The outlet may be plugged during the priming step During the evacuation step:

• the volume of the chamber can be varied (ie preferably moving the movable wall of the chamber) so as to increase the volume of the chamber and / or so as to reduce the volume of the chamber, and / or
• the dispensing valve and / or the supply valve can be subjected to vibrations, and / or
• the dispensing valve and / or the supply valve can be opened directly by mechanical action, for example by pressing it.

The vacuum step can create a vacuum in the reservoir, around the reservoir, in the deformable chamber, from the deformable chamber to the outlet of the device, and / or from the deformable chamber to the reservoir.

The outlet may not be clogged during the evacuation step.

• un maintien écartées entre elles des parois du réservoir par un embout de remplissage inséré dans le réservoir par l'ouverture de remplissage et par lequel se déverse le produit lors de l'étape de remplissage, et/ou
• un maintien écartées entre elles des parois du réservoir par au moins deux écarteurs de sorte que le réservoir soit situé entre les au moins deux écarteurs.

The walls of the reservoir can be kept apart from each other during the evacuation step and / or during the filling step. Keeping the walls of the reservoir apart from each other during the evacuation and / or keeping the walls of the reservoir apart from each other during the filling step may comprise:

• keeping the walls of the reservoir apart from each other by a filling nozzle inserted into the reservoir through the filling opening and through which the product flows during the filling step, and / or
• keeping the walls of the reservoir spaced apart from each other by at least two spacers so that the reservoir is located between the at least two spacers.

In the intermediate state, the reservoir can be filled with product while around the reservoir, from the deformable chamber to the outlet of the device, and / or from the deformable chamber to the reservoir, the pressure may be at the intermediate pressure and / or lower than the reference pressure.

The outlet may be plugged during the filling step.

The closing step can be implemented while the device is in its intermediate state.

The outlet may be plugged during the closing step.

The vacuum step can precede the filling step.

The stages of evacuating, filling and closing can be carried out within the same evacuation enclosure.

• de remplissage d'une part et
• de fermeture d'autre part

peuvent être réalisées dans deux enceintes distinctes. Dans ce cas, l'étape de remplissage peut précéder l'étape de mise sous vide.Steps :

• filling on the one hand and
• on the other hand

can be carried out in two separate enclosures. In this case, the filling step can precede the evacuation step.

The leakage rate through the movable wall may be zero and / or the leakage rate through the dispensing valve may be zero.

• ,les moyens de fourniture peuvent comprendre des moyens d'assemblage agencés pour un assemblage ( par exemple après une création de dépression par les moyens de mise sous vide et un remplissage par les moyens de remplissage) de la chambre déformable et du réservoir ; les moyens de fermeture peuvent comprendre les moyens d'assemblage et peuvent être agencés pour sceller ou fermer l'ouverture de remplissage lors de l'assemblage de la chambre déformable et du réservoir par les moyens d'assemblage, ou
• les moyens de fourniture peuvent être agencés pour fournir un dispositif comprenant la chambre déformable déjà assemblée au réservoir, avant que ce dispositif ne puisse être soumis (dans n'importe quel ordre) aux moyens de mise sous vide, aux moyens de remplissage et aux moyens de fermeture.

L'intérieur de la chambre déformable peut :

• ∘ être séparé du réservoir au moins par une valve d'alimentation, et/ou
• ∘ être séparé de la sortie du dispositif au moins par une valve de distribution, puis

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for manufacturing a product dispensing device, according to claim 15. According to different embodiments:

• , the supply means may comprise assembly means arranged for assembly (for example after creating a vacuum by the vacuum means and filling by the filling means) of the deformable chamber and of the reservoir; the closure means may comprise the assembly means and may be arranged to seal or close the filling opening during the assembly of the deformable chamber and the reservoir by the assembly means, or
• the supply means can be arranged to provide a device comprising the deformable chamber already assembled to the reservoir, before this device can be subjected (in any order) to the vacuum means, to the filling means and to the means closing.

The interior of the deformable chamber can:

• ∘ be separated from the tank at least by one supply valve, and / or
• ∘ be separated from the outlet of the device by at least one dispensing valve, then

The system according to the invention comprises priming means arranged to bring product from the reservoir to the interior of the deformable chamber.

• en exerçant une force sur le réservoir depuis l'extérieur du réservoir, de préférence par des moyens mécaniques, et/ou
• en soumettant la valve de distribution et/ou la valve d'alimentation à des vibrations, et/ou
• en ouvrant directement la valve de distribution et/ou la valve d'alimentation par une action mécanique, par exemple en appuyant dessus.

The priming means can be arranged to bring this product:

• by exerting a force on the reservoir from outside the reservoir, preferably by mechanical means, and / or
• by subjecting the dispensing valve and / or the supply valve to vibrations, and / or
• by directly opening the dispensing valve and / or the supply valve by mechanical action, for example by pressing it.

The priming means can be arranged to bring this product by increasing the pressure around the reservoir to the reference pressure.

The priming means can be arranged to start the priming while the interior of the deformable chamber is at a priming pressure lower than the reference pressure.

The priming means can be arranged to implement the priming (i.e. bring this product) while the outlet is blocked.

• faisant varier le volume de la chambre (i.e. de préférence déplacer la paroi mobile de la chambre) de manière à augmenter le volume de la chambre et/ou de manière à diminuer le volume de la chambre, et/ou
• soumettant la valve de distribution et/ou la valve d'alimentation à des vibrations, et/ou
• ouvrant directement la valve de distribution et/ou la valve d'alimentation par une action mécanique, par exemple en appuyant dessus.

The means of evacuating can be arranged to create the vacuum while:

• varying the volume of the chamber (ie preferably moving the movable wall of the chamber) so as to increase the volume of the chamber and / or so as to decrease the volume of the chamber, and / or
• subjecting the dispensing valve and / or the supply valve to vibrations, and / or
• directly opening the dispensing valve and / or the supply valve by mechanical action, for example by pressing it.

The vacuum means can be arranged to create a vacuum in the reservoir, around the reservoir, in the deformable chamber, from the deformable chamber to the outlet of the device, and / or from the deformable chamber to the reservoir.

The vacuum means can be arranged so that the outlet is not blocked during the creation of the vacuum by the vacuum means.

• par un maintien écartées entre elles des parois du réservoir par un embout de remplissage inséré dans le réservoir par l'ouverture de remplissage et par lequel se déverse le produit lors de l'étape de remplissage, et/ou
• par un maintien écartées entre elles des parois du réservoir par au moins deux écarteurs de sorte que le réservoir soit situé entre les au moins deux écarteurs.

The system according to the invention may comprise means for keeping the walls of the reservoir apart from one another during the creation of the vacuum by the vacuum means and / or during filling by the filling means, for example:

• by keeping the walls of the reservoir apart from each other by a filling nozzle inserted into the reservoir through the filling opening and through which the product flows during the filling step, and / or
• by keeping the walls of the reservoir apart from each other by at least two spacers so that the reservoir is located between the at least two spacers.

In the intermediate state, the reservoir can be filled with product while around the reservoir, from the deformable chamber to the outlet of the device, and / or from the deformable chamber to the reservoir, the pressure may be at the intermediate pressure and / or lower than the reference pressure.

The filling means can be arranged so that the outlet is blocked during filling by the filling means.

The closure means can be arranged to seal or close the filling opening while the device is in its intermediate state.

The closure means may be arranged to seal or close the filling opening while the outlet is plugged.

The vacuum means and the filling means can be arranged so that the creation of a vacuum by the vacuum means precedes the filling by the filling means.

The means for evacuating, filling and closing can be grouped within the same evacuation enclosure.

• de remplissage d'une part et
• de fermeture d'autre part

peuvent être localisés dans deux enceintes distinctes. Dans ce cas, les moyens de remplissage te les moyens de fermeture peuvent être agencés pour que le remplissage par les moyens de remplissage précède la création de dépression par les moyens de mise sous vide.The means :

• filling on the one hand and
• on the other hand

can be located in two separate enclosures. In this case, the filling means and the closing means can be arranged so that the filling by the filling means precedes the creation of a vacuum by the vacuum means.

Description of figures and embodiments

• la figure 1 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant une étape initiale d'un premier mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention de fabrication d'un dispositif 1,
• la figure 2 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant une étape de mise sous vide du premier mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 3 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant une étape de remplissage du premier mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 4 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant une étape de fermeture du premier mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 5 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant une étape d'amorçage du premier mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 6 est une vue de coupe de profil d'un détail du dispositif 1 en cours de fabrication dans une variante du premier mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 7 est une vue en perspective du dispositif 1 dans une variante du premier mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 8 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant une étape de mise sous vide d'un deuxième mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 9 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant une étape de fermeture du deuxième mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 10 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant une étape d'amorçage du deuxième mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 11 est une vue en perspective d'un système ou d'une installation 10 pour mettre en œuvre un procédé selon l'invention,
• la figure 12 est une vue de coupe de profil illustrant différentes étapes d'un troisième mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention
• les figures 13 à 16 sont des vues complètes (figures 13 et 14) ou partielle (figures 15 et 16) de coupe de profil du dispositif 1 en cours de fabrication illustrant différentes étapes d'un quatrième mode de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention, et
• les figures 17 à 19 sont des vues de coupe de profil illustrant une variante de chacun des précédents modes de réalisation de procédé selon l'invention.

Other advantages and features of the invention will become apparent on reading the detailed description of implementations and embodiments which are in no way limiting, and from the following appended drawings:

• the figure 1 is a side sectional view illustrating an initial step of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention for manufacturing a device 1,
• the figure 2 is a side sectional view illustrating a vacuum step of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 3 is a side sectional view illustrating a filling step of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 4 is a side sectional view illustrating a closing step of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 5 is a side sectional view illustrating a starting step of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 6 is a side sectional view of a detail of the device 1 during manufacture in a variant of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 7 is a perspective view of the device 1 in a variant of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 8 is a side sectional view illustrating a vacuum step of a second embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 9 is a side sectional view illustrating a closing step of the second embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 10 is a side sectional view illustrating a starting step of the second embodiment of the method according to the invention,
• the figure 11 is a perspective view of a system or an installation 10 for implementing a method according to the invention,
• the figure 12 is a side sectional view illustrating different steps of a third embodiment of the method according to the invention
• the figures 13 to 16 are full views ( figures 13 and 14 ) or partial ( figures 15 and 16 ) of profile section of the device 1 during manufacture illustrating different steps of a fourth embodiment of the method according to the invention, and
• the figures 17 to 19 are side sectional views illustrating a variant of each of the previous embodiments of the method according to the invention.

These embodiments being in no way limiting, it will be possible in particular to consider variants of the invention comprising only a selection of characteristics described or illustrated below isolated from the other characteristics described or illustrated (even if this selection is isolated within a sentence comprising these other characteristics), if this selection of characteristics is sufficient to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the state of the prior art. This selection comprises at least one preferably functional characteristic without structural details, and / or with only part of the structural details if this part alone is sufficient to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the state of the art. earlier.

We will first describe, with reference to figures 1 to 7 , a first embodiment of the method according to the invention for manufacturing a device 1 for dispensing product 16.

The various technical means described for implementing this method constitute the manufacturing system 10 according to the invention.

The initial step of this process illustrated on figure 1 is a step of providing a device 1 comprising a reservoir 3 and a head 2.

The head 2 comprises a rigid frame (for example of Polypropylene (PP)), on which is fixed a movable and / or deformable wall 13 (for example of Polypropylene (PP) with a much thinner thickness than the frame) which is more flexible than the framework.

The head 2 comprises a deformable chamber 45.

• d'un orifice 7 communiquant avec la chambre déformable 45 (par l'intermédiaire d'un conduit d'alimentation et d'une valve d'alimentation 4) et
• d'une ouverture de remplissage 8.

The reservoir 3 is formed by a flexible bag, typically in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) / Aluminum / cast Polypropylene (PP) multilayer film, the PET layer being towards the outside of the reservoir 3. Tank 3 is fitted with:

• an orifice 7 communicating with the deformable chamber 45 (via a supply duct and a supply valve 4) and
• a filling opening 8.

During this initial supply step, the interior of chamber 45 is at a reference pressure.

The filling opening 8 is a direct communication between the interior of the reservoir 3 and the exterior of the device 1.

The interior of the deformable chamber 45 is delimited at least in part by the wall 13, a displacement of which causes a variation in the volume of the deformable chamber 45.

During this initial step, device 1 is “empty”.

During this initial step, the reservoir 3 does not include the product 16, and is preferably filled only with gas, preferably air and / or an inert gas such as nitrogen.

During this initial step, the device 1 does not include the product 16, and is preferably filled only with gas, preferably air and / or an inert gas such as nitrogen.

During this initial step, the device 1 is in an initial state called “unsealed”, because the filling opening 8 exists and is not yet sealed.

The chamber 45 is separated from the reservoir 3 at least by the supply valve 4.

The supply valve 4 is flexible, typically in thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or an 80 Shore A thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer.

The chamber 45 is arranged so that a decrease in the volume of the chamber 45 (for example by pressing on the wall 13) closes the supply valve 4, at least when the chamber 45 is filled (preferably completely) with the product. 16 (which is not yet the case in this initial step).

The chamber 45 is arranged so that an increase in the volume of the chamber 45 (for example by releasing the wall 13) opens the supply valve 4, at least when the chamber 45 is filled (preferably completely) with the product 16 (which is not yet the case in this initial step).

The chamber 45 is separated from an outlet 6 of the device 1 at least by a distribution valve 5.

The distribution valve 5 is flexible, typically in thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer of 80 Shore A.

The chamber 45 is arranged so that a decrease in the volume of the chamber 45 (for example by pressing on the wall 13) opens the dispensing valve 5, at least when the chamber 45 is filled (preferably completely) with the product 16. (which is not yet the case in this initial step).

The chamber 45 is arranged so that an increase in the volume of the chamber 45 (for example by releasing the wall 13) closes the dispensing valve 5, at least when the chamber 45 is filled (preferably completely) with the product 16 ( which is not yet the case in this initial step).

When it is open, the supply valve 4 allows a passage of product, typically from the reservoir 3 to the chamber 45. When it is closed, the supply valve 4 does not allow such passage of product.

When it is open, the dispensing valve 5 allows a passage of product, typically from the chamber 45 to the outlet 6. When it is closed, the dispensing valve 5 does not allow such a passage of product.

A supply port connects chamber 45 to the supply duct.

The supply valve 4 comprises a membrane which, in the closed state of this supply valve 4, is pressed against the supply orifice so as to block this supply orifice, and in the open state of this supply valve 4, moves away from the orifice feed so as to open this feed orifice; the supply valve 4 is an independent part of the head 2, and is housed (at least its membrane) on the side of the chamber 45.

The supply valve 4 (movable between its closed and open positions) is, in its closed state, held pressed against a stationary part (called the supply seat, which at least partially surrounds the periphery of the associated supply port. ) and “rigid” (ie not made of flexible material) of an internal wall of the chamber 45. More precisely, the supply valve 4 comprises a membrane which, in the closed state of the supply valve 4, is kept pressed against the feed seat, and moves away from this feed seat in its open state.

The wall 13 is not mechanically connected to the supply valve 4. The supply valve 4 is a single wall which covers the supply seat, the supply valve 4 does not fit into the channel d. 'food.

The feed seat is located inside chamber 45.

A distribution orifice connects the chamber 45 to the distribution duct.

The distribution valve 5 is an independent part of the head 2 and is housed (entirely) inside the distribution duct.

The dispensing valve 5 comprises a membrane which, in the closed state of this dispensing valve 5, is pressed against the dispensing orifice so as to block this dispensing orifice, and in the open state of this dispensing valve 5, moves away from the dispensing orifice so as to open this dispensing orifice.

The dispensing orifice is located on a side wall of the dispensing duct, so that the dispensing orifice, the dispensing conduit and the dispensing valve 5 are arranged so that the product travels overall (i.e. say at a scale larger than the vortices of the microparticles of the product 16) a right angle or substantially a right angle passing from the chamber 45 to the distribution duct, that is to say between the direction of propagation of the product at the inlet of the distribution 5 and the direction of propagation of the product at the outlet of the distribution valve 5.

The distribution valve 5 (movable between its closed and open positions) is, in its closed state, kept pressed (sufficiently firmly, thanks to return means or a return spring of the valve 5, for example as described in the patent. WO 2015/155 318 ) against a stationary part (called the dispensing seat, which at least partially surrounds the periphery of the associated dispensing orifice) and “rigid” (ie not made of flexible material) of an internal wall of the dispensing duct, respectively in which it is housed. More precisely, the distribution valve respectively comprises a membrane which, in the closed state of the distribution valve, is held pressed against the distribution seat, and moves away from this seat in its open state. It is further noted that the distribution seat is a lateral part of the distribution duct respectively, that is to say that this seat is limited to one face, preferably planar, of an internal wall of the distribution duct respectively and does not go all the way around a section of the distribution duct which would be produced in a plane perpendicular to the direction of elongation of the distribution duct.

The distribution headquarters is located outside of chamber 45.

The feed port is located on a side wall of the feed duct, so that the feed port, the feed duct and the feed valve 4 are arranged so that the product generally travels at an angle. right or substantially a right angle passing from the supply duct to the chamber 45, that is to say between the direction of propagation of the product at the inlet of the supply valve 4 and the direction of propagation of the product at the outlet of the supply valve 4.

The supply valve 4 and the distribution valve 5 are connected by a junction element, this supply valve 4, this distribution valve 5 and the junction element being integral and in a single piece (manufactured for example a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or a polyurethane thermoplastic elastomer). This unique piece is in one piece. The junction element typically has a hardness of 70-80 Shore A. A hole creates a passage between the distribution conduit and the supply conduit without passing through the chamber 45. The junction element closes this hole and is maintained. by clamping in this hole.

Then, with reference to the figure 2 , the first embodiment of the method according to the invention comprises a step of “placing under vacuum” (also called a vacuum step) in which a vacuum is created in the deformable chamber 45 with respect to the reference pressure.

This reference pressure is equal to atmospheric pressure, that is to say equal to 1 bar.

This depression corresponds to a pressure difference of at least 0.2 or even 0.3 bar relative to the reference pressure, preferably at least 0.5 bar relative to the reference pressure, preferably d 'at least 0.7 bar relative to the reference pressure.

It will be noted that, in the present description, any mention of pressure or depression refers to a gas, the composition of which may optionally change during the process according to the invention.

During the evacuation step, the wall 13 is moved so as to increase the volume of the chamber 45 and / or the wall 13 is moved so as to reduce the volume of the chamber, for example by means of a jack 25 vibrating, preferably according to at least one (or even more) round trip (s), each round trip comprising a movement of the wall 13 so as to increase the volume of the chamber 45 and a movement of the wall 13 of so as to reduce the volume of the chamber 45.

The valve 4 and the valve 5 are thus opened and thus the correct production of the negative pressure or the vacuum (which is a partial vacuum) inside the chamber 45 despite the existence of the valves 4 and / or 5 is ensured.

The action of the jack 25 is a useful aid, but is not obligatory in particular in the case of a valve 4 and / or a valve 5 which is very flexible or not very tight with a possible space between the valve 4 or 5 and its seat.

During the evacuation step, the device 1 is in an enclosure 18 in which the vacuum is produced by a suction carried out by suction means 26 (such as for example a pump).

• dans le réservoir 3,
• dans un espace 15 autour (et en contact) du réservoir 3,
• dans la chambre déformable 45,
• de la chambre déformable 45 jusqu'à la sortie 6 du dispositif 1, c'est-à-dire dans le conduit de distribution, et
• de la chambre déformable 45 jusqu'au réservoir 3, c'est-à-dire dans le conduit d'alimentation.

The vacuum step creates the vacuum:

• in tank 3,
• in a space 15 around (and in contact with) the reservoir 3,
• in the deformable chamber 45,
• from the deformable chamber 45 to the outlet 6 of the device 1, that is to say in the distribution duct, and
• from the deformable chamber 45 to the reservoir 3, that is to say in the supply duct.

The outlet 6 is not blocked during the evacuation step. This can allow the air to come out also through outlet 6.

The walls 31, 32 of the tank 3 are kept spaced apart from each other during the evacuation step.

Keeping the walls 31, 32 of the reservoir 3 apart from one another during the evacuation comprises keeping the walls 31, 32 of the reservoir 3 apart from each other by a filling nozzle 11 inserted into the reservoir 3 through the filling opening 8 .

Then, with reference to the figure 3 , the first embodiment of the method according to the invention comprises a filling step in which the reservoir 3 is at least partially filled with the product 16.

Product 16 is a liquid, cream, paste, gel or mixture thereof.

The walls 31, 32 of the reservoir 3 are kept apart from each other during the filling step.

• un maintien écartées entre elles des parois 31, 32 du réservoir 3 par l'embout de remplissage 11 inséré dans le réservoir 3 par l'ouverture de remplissage 8 et par lequel se déverse le produit 16 lors de l'étape de remplissage, et
• un maintien écartées entre elles des parois 31, 32 du réservoir 3 par au moins deux écarteurs 12 de sorte que le réservoir 3 soit situé entre les au moins deux écarteurs 12. Les écarteurs 12 sont, du côté de l'extérieur du réservoir 3, en contact des parois écartées 31, 32.

Maintaining, spaced apart, the walls 31, 32 of the reservoir during the filling step comprises:

• keeping the walls 31, 32 of the reservoir 3 apart from each other by the filling nozzle 11 inserted into the reservoir 3 by the filling opening 8 and through which the product 16 pours out during the filling step, and
• keeping the walls 31, 32 of the reservoir 3 apart from each other by at least two spacers 12 so that the reservoir 3 is located between the at least two spacers 12. The spacers 12 are, on the outside side of the reservoir 3, in contact with the separated walls 31, 32.

Each spacer 12 is a suction cup.

The outlet 6 is blocked during the filling step.

• de faire sortir de l'air aussi par l'ouverture 8 pendant l'étape de mise sous vide, et
• de ne pas emprisonner de bulles d'air entre le produit 16 et le réservoir 3 lors de l'étape de remplissage.

In the first embodiment of the method according to the invention illustrated, the evacuation step precedes the filling step. This allows:

• to release air also through opening 8 during the evacuation step, and
• not to trap air bubbles between the product 16 and the reservoir 3 during the filling step.

The order of the vacuuming and filling steps can be reversed.

• le réservoir 3 est rempli (au moins en partie) du produit 16, et
• l'intérieur de la chambre déformable 45 ne comprend pas le produit 16 mais comprend un gaz à une pression intermédiaire inférieure à la pression de référence.

The vacuum and filling steps combine or follow one another so as to obtain a so-called "intermediate" state of the device 1 in which:

• the reservoir 3 is filled (at least in part) with the product 16, and
• the interior of the deformable chamber 45 does not include the product 16 but includes a gas at an intermediate pressure lower than the reference pressure.

This intermediate pressure is equal to the pressure obtained by the vacuum created during the vacuum step.

This intermediate pressure is less than 0.7 bar, preferably less than 0.5 bar, preferably less than 0.3 bar or even 0.2 bar.

The intermediate pressure is at least 0.2 or even 0.3 bar lower than the reference pressure, preferably at least 0.5 bar compared to the reference pressure, preferably at least 0.7 bar compared to the reference pressure.

• dans l'espace 15 autour du réservoir 3,
• de la chambre déformable 45 jusqu'à la sortie 6 du dispositif 1, i.e. dans le conduit de distribution, et
• éventuellement, si le produit 16 est assez visqueux, de la chambre déformable 45 jusqu'au réservoir 3, i.e. dans le conduit de d'alimentation,

on a pas de produit 16 mais du gaz dont la pression est inférieure à la pression de référence (et de préférence égale à la pression intermédiaire).In the intermediate state corresponding to the end of the step illustrated on figure 3 , the reservoir 3 is filled (at least in part) with the product 16 while:

• in the space 15 around the tank 3,
• from the deformable chamber 45 to the outlet 6 of the device 1, ie in the distribution duct, and
• possibly, if the product 16 is viscous enough, from the deformable chamber 45 to the reservoir 3, ie in the supply duct,

there is no product 16 but gas, the pressure of which is less than the reference pressure (and preferably equal to the intermediate pressure).

Then, with reference to the figure 4 , the first embodiment of the method according to the invention comprises a closing step in which the filling opening 8 is sealed or closed.

The closing step is implemented while the device 1 is in its intermediate state.

The closure is achieved for example by means of a clamp 9 for ultrasonic welding or hot welding.

Outlet 6 is blocked during the closing step.

There is a means (not shown) arranged to bring the edges of the bag (ie the edges of the walls 31, 32 delimiting the opening 8) together before welding or closing the opening 8, and implementing a step of bringing the edges together. of the bag (ie the edges of the walls 31, 32 delimiting the opening 8) before sealing or closing the opening 8.

Then, with reference to the figure 5 , the first embodiment of the method according to the invention further comprises, after the closing step and the evacuation step and the filling step, a priming step during which the product is introduced 16 from the reservoir 3 to the interior of the deformable chamber 45 (at least up to between the supply valve 4 and an internal wall (more exactly the supply seat) of the chamber 45), preferably so to be filled with product 16 at least 1% or even at least 5% of the internal volume of the chamber 45 (that is to say at the level of the seat of the inlet valve 4) for example if the product 16 is very viscous, preferably so as to fill with product 16 at least 30% of the internal volume of the chamber 45, for example if the product 16 is not very viscous, preferably so as to completely fill the chamber 45 with product 16.

The priming step starts when the interior of the deformable chamber 45 is at a priming pressure (equal to the intermediate pressure) lower than the reference pressure, which considerably helps this priming.

This priming pressure is less than 0.7 bar, preferably less than 0.5 bar, preferably less than 0.3 bar or even 0.2 bar.

The priming pressure is respectively at least 0.2 or even 0.3 bar lower than the reference pressure, preferably at least 0.5 bar compared to the reference pressure, preferably d 'at least 0.7 bar relative to the reference pressure.

• en exerçant une force sur le réservoir 3 depuis l'extérieur du réservoir par des moyens mécaniques 14, ici identiques aux moyens 12, et
• par une augmentation de la pression du gaz dans l'espace 15 autour du réservoir 3 à partir de la pression d'amorçage et au moins jusqu'à la pression de référence (jusqu'à la pression de référence ou au-delà de la pression de référence); cette augmentation est mise en œuvre en ouvrant l'enceinte 18 dans laquelle se trouve le dispositif 1 de manière à faire entrer du gaz 17 (par exemple de l'air) dans l'espace 15 autour du réservoir 3. Ceci a pour avantage d'être très simple et très rapide à mettre en œuvre.

The priming step is implemented:

• by exerting a force on the reservoir 3 from outside the reservoir by mechanical means 14, here identical to the means 12, and
• by an increase in the gas pressure in the space 15 around the tank 3 from the starting pressure and at least up to the reference pressure (up to the reference pressure or beyond the pressure reference); this increase is implemented by opening the enclosure 18 in which the device 1 is located so as to allow gas 17 (for example air) to enter the space 15 around the tank 3. This has the advantage of 'be very simple and very quick to implement.

The outlet 6 is blocked during the priming step. This makes it possible to prevent the entry of air or gas into the device 1 through the outlet 6 when the enclosure is opened.

After priming, the device 1 is then in its so-called “final” state, ready to be used by a user.

In the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, the stages of placing under vacuum, filling, closing and priming are carried out within the same chamber 18 for placing under vacuum.

• l'étape de mise sous vide précède l'étape de remplissage,
• l'étape de mise sous vide précède l'étape de fermeture,
• l'étape de remplissage précède l'étape de fermeture,
• l'étape de fermeture précède l'étape d'amorçage.

In this first embodiment:

• the vacuum step precedes the filling step,
• the vacuum step precedes the closing step,
• the filling step precedes the closing step,
• the closing step precedes the priming step.

• en référence à la figure 6, lorsque la sortie 6 est bouchée, elle peut être bouchée par une tige 20 (par exemple en inox) qui est insérée dans le canal de distribution reliant la valve de distribution 5 à la sortie 6 ; la tige 20 insérée étant agencée pour bloquer la valve 5 dans sa position fermée, ou
• en référence à la figure 7, lorsque la sortie 6 est bouchée, elle peut être bouchée par un bouchon ou film ou opercule 21 (par exemple un film multicouche Polytéréphtalate d'éthylène (PET)/Aluminium/Polypropylène (PP)) fixé (de préférence collé) sur la sortie 6.

In the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, when the outlet 6 is blocked, it is typically blocked by a stopper 19 (for example made of rubber or polymer) which is pressed against the outlet 6. However, in variants:

• with reference to the figure 6 , when the outlet 6 is blocked, it can be blocked by a rod 20 (for example made of stainless steel) which is inserted into the distribution channel connecting the distribution valve 5 to the outlet 6; the inserted rod 20 being arranged to block the valve 5 in its closed position, or
• with reference to the figure 7 , when the outlet 6 is blocked, it can be blocked by a stopper or film or cover 21 (for example a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) / Aluminum / Polypropylene (PP) multilayer film) fixed (preferably glued) to the outlet 6.

It is noted that, in the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, the opening 8 is always located higher up than the orifice 7 (the height increasing as it moves away from the Earth parallel to the Earth's gravitational field, or by going against a direction of flow of the product 16 from the nozzle 11 to the reservoir 3 during the filling step).

We will now describe, with reference to figures 8 to 10 , a second embodiment of the method according to the invention for manufacturing a device 1 for dispensing product.

This second embodiment will only be described for its differences from the first method embodiment according to the invention, and all the numerical references already described above will therefore not necessarily be described again.

In this second embodiment, the reservoir 3 is not formed by a flexible bag but by a tube.

In this second embodiment, the outlet 6 is plugged during the evacuation step, the method being compatible with the manufacture of a device 1 carrying a plug 22. It is also plugged during the filling step. , the closing step and the priming step.

In this second embodiment, when the outlet 6 is plugged, it is plugged by a removable plug 22, preferably connected to the head 2 by a hinge 23.

The hinge 23 and the cap 22 are ideally made of the same material as the frame of the head 2.

In this second embodiment, the walls 31, 32 do not need to be kept apart.

The figure 8 illustrates the evacuation step of this second embodiment.

The filling step via the nozzle 11 is not illustrated.

The figure 9 illustrates the closing step of this second embodiment.

The figure 10 illustrates the priming step of this second embodiment.

• remplissage (et éventuellement de mise sous vide) d'une part et
• de fermeture (et éventuellement d'amorçage) d'autre part

sont réalisées dans deux enceintes 181, 182 distinctes.We will now describe, with reference to the figure 11 , variants of each of the two embodiments which have just been described. In these variants, all the steps of the method according to the invention are not necessarily implemented in the same enclosure. In particular the stages:

• filling (and possibly vacuuming) on the one hand and
• closing (and possibly priming) on the other hand

are produced in two separate enclosures 181, 182.

The vacuum step is carried out in a first enclosure 181, so as not to trap an air bubble between the product 16 and the reservoir 3 and to create the vacuum in the chamber 45 in particular if the product 16 is viscous.

The filling step is then carried out in the first enclosure 181.

The device 1 is then transported from the first enclosure 181 to a second enclosure 182 with the outlet 6 blocked by the means 19, 20 or 21, so as to be able to maintain the vacuum in the chamber 45.

Then, the “vacuum” is produced at the priming pressure around the reservoir 3 in the second chamber 182 in anticipation of the priming.

The step of closing the reservoir 3 is then carried out by welding in the second enclosure 182.

A first part of the priming step (by increasing the pressure) is then carried out during the opening of the enclosure 182 and the entry of gas 17 into the volume 15.

A second part of the priming step is carried out outside the enclosures 181, 182 by the mechanical means 14 crushing the reservoir 3.

The separation of the steps of the process according to the invention in different “stations” or different enclosures makes it possible to increase the rate thereof.

We will now describe, with reference to the figure 12 , a third embodiment of the method according to the invention for manufacturing a device 1 for dispensing product 16.

This third embodiment will only be described for its differences with respect to the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, and all the numerical references already described above will therefore not necessarily be described again.

• l'étape de remplissage précède l'étape de fermeture,
• l'étape de fermeture précède l'étape de mise sous vide,
• l'étape de fermeture précède l'étape d'amorçage,
• l'étape de mise sous vide précède l'étape d'amorçage.

In this third embodiment:

• the filling step precedes the closing step,
• the closing step precedes the vacuuming step,
• the closing step precedes the priming step,
• the vacuum step precedes the priming step.

This third embodiment is implemented on a continuous vertical filling machine.

The reservoir 3 is formed by two flexible films which are assembled.

Each of these two films is, for example, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) / Aluminum / Polypropylene (PP) multilayer film.

These two assembled flexible films form several devices 1 connected in series and which move in a direction 24 from one station to the other of the filling machine.

The initial step of supplying a device 1 is implemented by assembling these two films between which is inserted the head 2 of this device 1, as illustrated on part 101 at the top of the figure 12 . The two films are assembled (typically by an ultrasonic and / or hot welding technique), leaving the opening 8 open.

Then the device 1 moves in the direction 24 and takes place the step of filling the reservoir 3 of the device 1 by the nozzle 11 with the product 16, as illustrated in part 102 in the middle of the figure 12 .

• l'étape de fermeture de l'ouverture 8 (typiquement par une technique de soudure à ultrasons) puis
• l'étape de mise sous vide dans laquelle on créé la dépression dans la chambre déformable 45, cette dépression étant créée par aspiration par la sortie 6 (par les moyens 26), puis
• l'étape d'amorçage (typiquement par les moyens 14 appuyant sur le réservoir 3 comme précédemment décrit),

comme illustré sur la partie 103 en bas de la figure 12.Then the device 1 moves in direction 24 and takes place:

• the step of closing the opening 8 (typically by an ultrasonic welding technique) then
• the vacuum step in which the vacuum is created in the deformable chamber 45, this vacuum being created by suction through the outlet 6 (by the means 26), then
• the priming step (typically by the means 14 pressing on the reservoir 3 as previously described),

as illustrated in part 103 at the bottom of the figure 12 .

Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous modifications can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention.

Note that in the embodiments described the filling step precedes the closing step.

Note that in the embodiments described the closing step precedes the priming step.

Note that in the embodiments described the vacuum step precedes the priming step.

• ∘ avant l'étape de remplissage et/ou avant l'étape de fermeture, ou
• ∘ après l'étape de remplissage (dans l'enceinte 18, 181, 182 ou ailleurs) :
  • ▪ entre l'étape de remplissage et l'étape de fermeture
  • ▪ après l'étape de fermeture (entre l'étape de fermeture et l'étape d'amorçage).

Note that in the embodiments described the vacuuming step can take place:

• ∘ before the filling step and / or before the closing step, or
• ∘ after the filling step (in enclosure 18, 181, 182 or elsewhere):
  • ▪ between the filling stage and the closing stage
  • ▪ after the closing stage (between the closing stage and the priming stage).

In addition, in the embodiments described, the priming step is not compulsory and this priming can be carried out later manually by a user, even if this is much less advantageous (in the event of a leak, the interior of chamber 45 can gradually return to atmospheric pressure).

• pendant l'étape de mise sous vide, peut être remplacé ou combiné par un maintien avec les écarteurs 12, et/ou
• pendant l'étape de remplissage, peut n'utiliser que l'embout 11 ou les écarteurs 12.

In addition, in a variant of the embodiments described, keeping the walls 31, 32 of the tank 3 apart from one another:

• during the evacuation step, can be replaced or combined by a maintenance with the spacers 12, and / or
• during the filling step, can only use the nozzle 11 or the spacers 12.

• uniquement en exerçant une force sur le réservoir 3 depuis l'extérieur du réservoir par des moyens mécaniques 14, ou
• uniquement par l'augmentation de la pression du gaz dans l'espace 15 autour du réservoir 3 à partir de la pression d'amorçage et jusqu'à la pression de référence ou au-delà de la pression de référence.

In addition, in a variant of the embodiments described, the priming step can be implemented:

• only by exerting a force on the reservoir 3 from outside the reservoir by mechanical means 14, or
• only by increasing the gas pressure in the space around the tank 3 from the starting pressure and up to the reference pressure or beyond the reference pressure.

In addition, in a variant of the embodiments described, the deformable movable wall 13 can be replaced by a movable wall such as a rigid piston connected to an actuation button arranged to move this piston so as to vary the volume of the chamber. 45.

In addition, in a variant of the embodiments described, the priming can comprise (preferably at the end of the cycle after the various other stages described above of the priming) the exertion of a force on the chamber 45, typically on the wall 13. This may for example allow a little more product 16 to enter the chamber 45 to ensure that the device 1 does not defuse subsequently.

We will now describe, with reference to figures 13 to 16 , a fourth embodiment of the method according to the invention for manufacturing a device 1 for dispensing product.

This fourth embodiment will be described only for its differences with respect to the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, and all the numerical references already described above will therefore not necessarily be described again.

• l'étape de mise sous vide dans laquelle on créé la dépression dans la chambre déformable 45 par rapport à la pression de référence (1bar), dans l'enceinte 18 dans laquelle on réalise la dépression par une aspiration réalisée par les moyens d'aspiration 26, et
• l'étape de remplissage (avant, pendant ou après l'étape de mise sous vide) dans laquelle on remplit au moins en partie le réservoir 3 avec le produit 16.

With reference to the figure 13 , in this fourth embodiment, we start by carrying out:

• the vacuum step in which the vacuum is created in the deformable chamber 45 with respect to the reference pressure (1 bar), in the chamber 18 in which the vacuum is produced by suction produced by the suction means 26, and
• the filling step (before, during or after the evacuation step) in which the reservoir 3 is at least partially filled with the product 16.

• dans l'espace 15 autour (et en contact) du réservoir 3, et
• dans la chambre déformable 45.

The vacuum step creates the vacuum:

• in the space 15 around (and in contact with) the tank 3, and
• in the deformable chamber 45.

Then, with reference to the figure 14 , this fourth embodiment comprises an assembly of the deformable chamber 45 and of the reservoir 3 so as to form the device 1 and implement the step of supplying the device 1. The closing step is carried out during assembly of the deformable chamber 45 and of the reservoir 3, more precisely by plugging the opening 8 with the head 2.

• le réservoir 3 est rempli (au moins en partie) du produit 16, et
• l'intérieur de la chambre déformable 45 ne comprend pas le produit 16 mais comprend un gaz à une pression intermédiaire inférieure à la pression de référence.

After this assembly, the previous stages of evacuating and filling combine or follow one another so as to obtain a so-called "intermediate" state of the device 1 in which:

• the reservoir 3 is filled (at least in part) with the product 16, and
• the interior of the deformable chamber 45 does not include the product 16 but includes a gas at an intermediate pressure lower than the reference pressure.

Then, with reference to figures 15 and 16 , this fourth embodiment comprises the priming step, during which the product 16 is brought from the reservoir 3 to the interior of the deformable chamber 45.

The amount of product which rises depends on the tightness of the chamber 45 and the level of depression in the chamber 45.

The figure 15 illustrates the minimum level of product ascent into chamber 45 (product 16 from reservoir 3 to between supply valve 4 and an internal wall (more exactly the supply seat) of chamber 45)).

The figure 16 illustrates a significant level of product rise in chamber 45: product 16 from reservoir 3 to the interior of deformable chamber 45, preferably so as to fill with product 16 at least 1% or even at least 5% of the product. internal volume of the chamber 45 (that is to say at the level of the seat of the inlet valve 4), preferably so as to fill with product 16 at least 20% even at least 30% of the internal volume of the chamber 45 for example if the dispensing valve 5 is more hermetic and / or if the product 16 is not very viscous, preferably so as to fill 70% or entirely with product 16 the chamber 45 for example if in addition the depression is high. The level of rise necessary for priming also depends on the nature of the product, a freeze in general requires less rise.

The priming step starts when the interior of the deformable chamber 45 is at the priming pressure (equal to the intermediate pressure) lower than the reference pressure, which considerably helps this priming.

The reservoir 3 is delimited at least in part by a movable wall 46 in contact with the space 15.

The priming step is carried out by increasing the gas pressure in the space 15 around the reservoir 3 from the priming pressure and at least up to the reference pressure (up to the reference pressure or above the reference pressure); this increase is implemented by opening the enclosure 18 in which the device 1 is located so as to bring gas 17 (for example air) into the space 15 around the reservoir 3.

This increase causes a suction through the chamber 45 and a thrust of the wall 46 so as to reduce the volume of the reservoir 3. The priming is thus facilitated.

This has the advantage of being very simple and very quick to implement.

The distribution valve 5 is more airtight than the supply valve 4.

• dans la chambre 45 par rapport à la sortie 6 ou à l'espace 15 (on aspire depuis la chambre 45, de préférence au cours d'un test dans lequel on conserve la valve de distribution 5 mais on enlève la valve d'alimentation 4), et donc susceptible de créer une fuite à travers la valve 5 de la sortie 6 vers la chambre 45, et
• dans l'orifice 7 ou le conduit d'alimentation par rapport à la chambre 45 (on aspire depuis l'orifice 7, de préférence au cours d'un test dans lequel on conserve la valve d'alimentation 4 mais on enlève la valve de distribution 5), et donc susceptible de créer une fuite à travers la valve 4 de la chambre 45 vers l'orifice 7,

la fuite de gaz (en unité de volume par unité de temps) est plus importante à travers la valve d'alimentation 4 qu'à travers la valve de distribution 5, de préférence au moins 2 fois ou même au moins 10 fois plus importante, au moins pour de l'air. On note au passage que cette différence d'étanchéité entre les valves 4 et 5 est aussi présente dans l'ensemble des modes de réalisation précédemment décrits. La fuite de gaz à travers la valve de distribution 5 est même de préférence nulle.For the same depression (typically at least 0.2 or even 0.3 bar or at least 0.5 bar or at least 0.7 bar or between 0.7 and 0.95 bar, corresponding to the vacuum in the chamber created during the evacuation step or corresponding to the difference between the reference pressure and the “intermediate pressure” or to the difference between the reference pressure and the “priming pressure”):

• in chamber 45 with respect to outlet 6 or space 15 (aspirate from chamber 45, preferably during a test in which the dispensing valve 5 is kept but the supply valve is removed 4), and therefore liable to create a leak through valve 5 from outlet 6 to chamber 45, and
• in the orifice 7 or the supply duct with respect to the chamber 45 (one aspirates from the orifice 7, preferably during a test in which the supply valve 4 is kept but the pressure valve is removed distribution 5), and therefore liable to create a leak through the valve 4 of the chamber 45 towards the orifice 7,

the gas leak (in unit of volume per unit of time) is greater through the supply valve 4 than through the distribution valve 5, preferably at least 2 times or even at least 10 times greater, at least for air. It should be noted in passing that this difference in sealing between the valves 4 and 5 is also present in all of the embodiments described above. The gas leakage through the distribution valve 5 is even preferably zero.

• dans la chambre 45 par rapport à la sortie 6 ou à l'espace 15 (et donc susceptible de créer une fuite à travers la valve 5 de la sortie 6 vers la chambre 45) et
• dans la chambre 45 par rapport à l'orifice 7 ou le conduit d'alimentation (et donc susceptible de créer une fuite à travers la valve 4 de l'orifice 7 vers la chambre 45),

la fuite de gaz (en unité de volume par unité de temps) est plus importante à travers la valve d'alimentation 4 qu'à travers la valve de distribution 5, de préférence au moins 2 fois ou même au moins 10 fois plus importante, au moins pour de l'air. On note au passage que cette différence d'étanchéité entre les valves 4 et 5 est aussi présente dans l'ensemble des modes de réalisation précédemment décrits. La fuite de gaz à travers la valve de distribution 5 est même de préférence nulle.For the same depression (typically at least 0.2 or even 0.3 bar or at least 0.5 bar or at least 0.7 bar or between 0.7 and 0.95 bar, corresponding to the vacuum in the chamber created during the evacuation step or corresponding to the difference between the reference pressure and the “intermediate pressure” or to the difference between the reference pressure and the “priming pressure”):

• in the chamber 45 with respect to the outlet 6 or to the space 15 (and therefore liable to create a leak through the valve 5 from the outlet 6 to the chamber 45) and
• in the chamber 45 relative to the orifice 7 or the supply duct (and therefore liable to create a leak through the valve 4 from the orifice 7 to the chamber 45),

the gas leak (in unit of volume per unit of time) is greater through the supply valve 4 than through the distribution valve 5, preferably at least 2 times or even at least 10 times greater, at least for air. We note in passing that this difference in sealing between the valves 4 and 5 is also present in all the modes of realization previously described. The gas leakage through the distribution valve 5 is even preferably zero.

The leakage rate from the supply valve 4 is greater than 1 cm ³ / minute (typically for air at 20 ° C and at the vacuum in chamber 45 corresponding to the priming pressure, that is i.e. at the start of the priming step).

The leakage rate (typically for air at 20 ° C.) through the wall 13 is zero or almost zero.

The leakage rate (typically for air at 20 ° C.) through the valve 5 is zero or almost zero.

These zero or almost zero leakage rates of the wall 13 and / or of the valve 5 are measured with a pressure difference (in the chamber 45 and the reservoir 3 with respect to the outlet 6 or to the space 15) of 0 , 9 bar for 1 hour having removed the supply valve 4 for the measurements, the sum of the chamber 45 and the reservoir 3 having a total volume of one liter.

The outlet 6 is preferably plugged during the priming step, to prevent any entry of air through the outlet 6 to the chamber 45.

• n'est délimitée que par des parois non perméables aux gaz (i.e. à tout type de gaz, de préférence au moins à l'air), et
• au cas où la chambre 45 est constituée par un assemblage de différentes parois, toutes les jonctions de ces différentes parois
  • ne sont pas perméables aux gaz (i.e. à tout type de gaz, de préférence au moins à l'air), ou
  • ont, pour le total de toutes ces jonctions, un débit de fuite inférieur à 1 cm³/seconde voir même 0,1 cm³/seconde

pour la dépression (typiquement d'au moins 0,2 ou même 0,3 bar ou d'au moins 0,5 bar ou d'au moins 0,7 bar ou comprise entre 0,7 et 0,95 bar) correspondant à la dépression dans la chambre crée pendant l'étape de mise sous vide ou correspondant à la différence entre la pression de référence et la « pression intermédiaire » ou à la différence entre la pression de référence et la « pression d'amorçage »).It is further noted that the chamber 45 is perfectly sealed, apart from the level of the valves 4 and / or 5 which can be opened. In other words, chamber 45 (apart from valve 4 and / or 5):

• is only delimited by walls which are not permeable to gases (ie to any type of gas, preferably at least to air), and
• in the event that the chamber 45 is formed by an assembly of different walls, all the junctions of these different walls
  • are not permeable to gases (ie to any type of gas, preferably at least to air), or
  • have, for the total of all these junctions, a leak rate of less than 1 cm ³ / second or even 0.1 cm ³ / second

for the vacuum (typically at least 0.2 or even 0.3 bar or at least 0.5 bar or at least 0.7 bar or between 0.7 and 0.95 bar) corresponding to the vacuum in the chamber created during the evacuation step or corresponding to the difference between the pressure of reference and the “intermediate pressure” or the difference between the reference pressure and the “start pressure”).

Each junction is for example maintained by clamping (for example between two clamping rings respectively 50 and 51 or 150 and 151) or by welding (for example by ultrasonic welding or overmolding or bi-injection).

• une jonction (annulaire) « en bas », entre la paroi 13 et la paroi de fond 53 portant la valve d'alimentation 4 et/ou le siège d'alimentation, et
• une jonction (annulaire) « en haut », entre la paroi 13 et la coiffe 54 portant la valve de distribution 5 et/ou le siège de distribution.

We have in this case only two junctions:

• a junction (annular) "at the bottom", between the wall 13 and the bottom wall 53 carrying the supply valve 4 and / or the supply seat, and
• a junction (annular) "at the top", between the wall 13 and the cap 54 carrying the dispensing valve 5 and / or the dispensing seat.

This makes it possible to prevent the entry of air or gas into the device 1 through the outlet 6 when opening the enclosure 18, and makes it possible to maintain the vacuum in the chamber 45 until priming. .

The final state is shown on the figure 15 or 16 .

We will now describe, with reference to figures 17 to 19 , a variant of the previous embodiments of the method according to the invention, which can be combined with each of the variants described above.

In these variants, the enclosure (typically 18) in which the evacuation is carried out is provided with a vibrating support 49 on which the device (s) 1 rest (s).

• on soumet la valve de distribution 5 et/ou la valve d'alimentation 4 à des vibrations de manière à faciliter la création du vide dans la chambre 45 à travers la valve 4 et/ou 5. Cela permet en effet de faciliter le passage de gaz à travers la valve 4 et/ou 5, et/ou
• on ouvre directement la valve 5 par une action mécanique, par exemple en appuyant dessus (par exemple avec un outil 55) comme illustré sur la figure 19 de préférence si les distributeurs 70 selon l'invention sont placés tête 2 en haut comme illustré figure 17.

During the evacuation step, the dispensing valve 5 is opened. Typically, during the evacuation step:

• the distribution valve 5 and / or the supply valve 4 is subjected to vibrations so as to facilitate the creation of a vacuum in the chamber 45 through the valve 4 and / or 5. This in fact makes it possible to facilitate the passage of gas through valve 4 and / or 5, and / or
• valve 5 is opened directly by mechanical action, for example by pressing on it (for example with a tool 55) as illustrated on figure 19 preferably if the distributors 70 according to the invention are placed head 2 up as illustrated figure 17 .

• on utilise la dépression dans la poche 45, et/ou
• on soumet la valve d'alimentation 4 à des vibrations. Cela permet en effet de faciliter le passage de gaz à travers la valve 4. Il est préférable que la valve 5 soit plus étanche que la valve 4.

During the priming step, or open the supply valve 4. For example:

• the vacuum in the pocket 45 is used, and / or
• the supply valve 4 is subjected to vibrations. This in fact makes it possible to facilitate the passage of gas through the valve 4. It is preferable for the valve 5 to be more tight than the valve 4.

In these variants, the enclosure (typically 18) in which the evacuation is carried out is located along a conveyor and bordered by two removable doors 47 and 48.

If the distributors 80 according to the invention have the head 2 at the bottom in the enclosure (the distribution valve 5 towards the ground) as illustrated figure 17 the vibrations are not necessary, the depression created in the enclosure will create a depression that is all the greater in the chamber 45 as the reservoir 3 is flexible, and can be deformed. This depression will suck the air into the pocket 45, at atmospheric pressure, the product near the valve 4 will enter the chamber 45.

With reference to the figure 19 , the priming operation can be done outside the enclosure 18 at atmospheric pressure with a suction head 66 provided with a tool 55, however when removing the head 66, the valve 5 must be closed, therefore the tool 55 no longer acts on the valve 5 during the withdrawal and even a little before the withdrawal of the head 66.

Of course, the different characteristics, shapes, variants and embodiments of the invention can be associated with each other in various combinations insofar as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, all the variants and embodiments described above can be combined with one another.

• on créé un flux de fluide de la chambre 45 vers la sortie 6 ou vers l'espace 15 (par exemple en aspirant depuis l'espace 15), et/ou
• on créé une dépression dans la sortie 6 ou dans l'espace 15 par rapport à l'intérieur de la chambre 45.

Note that, in all the embodiments of figures 1 to 18 , the distribution valve 5 is arranged to change from its closed position to its open position when:

• a fluid flow is created from the chamber 45 to the outlet 6 or to the space 15 (for example by aspirating from the space 15), and / or
• a vacuum is created in the outlet 6 or in the space 15 with respect to the interior of the chamber 45.

This facilitates the creation of the depression in the pocket 45.

The case of figure 19 is another opposite variation.

• on créé un flux de fluide de la sortie 6 ou de l'espace 15 vers la chambre 45, et/ou
• on créé une dépression dans la chambre 45 par rapport à la sortie 6 ou à l'espace 15.

Note that, in all the embodiments of figures 1 to 18 , the distribution valve 5 is designed to remain in its closed position when:

• a fluid flow is created from the outlet 6 or from the space 15 to the chamber 45, and / or
• a vacuum is created in the chamber 45 with respect to the outlet 6 or to the space 15.

This makes it possible to prevent air from entering chamber 45 through outlet 6 during priming.

The case of figure 19 is another opposite variation.

• on créé un flux de fluide de l'orifice 7 ou du conduit d'alimentation vers la chambre 45, et/ou
• on créé une dépression dans la chambre 45 par rapport à l'orifice 7 ou au conduit d'alimentation.

Note that, in all the embodiments of figures 1 to 19 , the supply valve 4 is arranged to change from its closed position to its open position when:

• a fluid flow is created from the orifice 7 or from the supply duct to the chamber 45, and / or
• a vacuum is created in the chamber 45 with respect to the orifice 7 or to the supply duct.

This facilitates priming.

Claims (15)

1. Method for manufacturing a device (1) for dispensing a product, comprising:

   - a filling step in which a vessel is filled with product,

   - supplying a device (1) comprising the vessel (3), said vessel being connected to a deformable chamber (45) and being provided with a filling opening (8), the inside of the deformable chamber being delimited at least partially by a movable wall (13) a movement of which causes the volume of the deformable chamber to change and:

   ∘ being separated from the vessel by at least one supply valve (4), and/or

   ∘ being separated from an outlet (6) of the device by at least one dispensing valve (5), then

   - a closing step in which the filling opening is closed,

   - a priming step during which product is transported from the vessel until inside the deformable chamber,

   the method being characterized in that it comprises:

   - a vacuum step in which a pressure drop is created in the deformable chamber relative to a reference pressure, and

   the vacuum, filling and supplying steps being implemented so that, in a state called "intermediate" state of the device, the vessel is filled with product while the inside of the deformable chamber is at an intermediate pressure lower than the reference pressure.
2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that, during the vacuum step in which a pressure drop is created in a deformable chamber relative to the reference pressure, this pressure drop is at least 0.3 bar relative to the reference pressure.
3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, during the vacuum step in which a pressure drop is created in a deformable chamber relative to the reference pressure, this pressure drop is at least 0.5 bar relative to the reference pressure.
4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises:

   - supplying the device

   then the following steps in any order:

   - the vacuum step,

   - the filling step,

   - the closing step.
5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reference pressure is equal to 1 bar.
6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the priming step comprises increasing the pressure around the vessel up to the reference pressure.
7. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the priming step begins when the inside of the deformable chamber is at a priming pressure lower than the reference pressure.
8. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outlet is blocked during the priming step.
9. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supply valve (4) has a leakage rate above 1 cm³/minute for air at 20°C.
10. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least 5% of the internal volume of the chamber (45) is filled with product (16) during the priming step.
11. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least 30% of the internal volume of the chamber (45) is filled with product (16) during the priming step.
12. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leakage rate through the movable wall (13) is zero and/or the leakage rate through the dispensing valve (5) is zero.
13. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the movable wall is a deformable wall.
14. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chamber (45) is delimited only by gas-impermeable walls and/or is constituted by an assembly of different walls, all the junctions of these different walls having, for the sum of all these junctions, a leakage rate lower than 1 cm³/second.
15. System for manufacturing a device for dispensing a product, comprising:

    - means for supplying a device comprising a vessel, said vessel being connected to a deformable chamber and being provided with a filling opening, the inside of the deformable chamber being delimited at least partially by a movable wall a movement of which causes the volume of the deformable chamber to change and:

    ∘ being separated from the vessel by at least one supply valve, and/or

    ∘ being separated from an outlet of the device by at least one dispensing valve, then

    - means for filling the vessel with product,

    - closing means (12, 14) arranged to close the filling opening,

    - priming means arranged to transport product from the vessel until inside the deformable chamber,

    the system being characterized in that it comprises:

    - vacuum means (26) arranged to create a pressure drop in the deformable chamber relative to a reference pressure, and

    the vacuum, filling and supplying means being arranged so that, in a state called "intermediate" state of the device, the vessel is filled with product while the inside of the deformable chamber is at an intermediate pressure lower than the reference pressure.

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