Patent Application
20230146850
None.
The invention relates generally to an actuator assembly for a dispenser and more particularly, to an dispenser actuator assembly having a base member configured to mount on a crushable glass ampoule assembly wherein an actuator assembly in the form of a first actuator arm and a second actuator arm are operably connected to the base member and dimensioned to crush the glass ampoule assembly.
Dispensers such as glass ampoule assemblies are well known in the art and are often designed to be single-use disposable dispensers. A glass ampoule assembly typically includes a rupturable container such as a glass ampoule that contains a flowable material to be dispensed. The glass ampoule is contained in an outer container that may be made from a plastic material and having an open end and a closed end. The glass ampoule assembly may further include an applicator such as a swab that fits in the open end of the outer container. The applicator assists in dispensing the flowable material after the glass ampoule is ruptured, or crushed. The glass ampoule assembly may also include a cover member such as a cardboard sleeve that is used when initially storing and transporting the glass ampoule assembly wherein the applicator end of the glass ampoule assembly is inserted into the cardboard sleeve. An opposite end of the glass ampoule assembly may be inserted into the cardboard sleeve wherein the applicator extends out of the sleeve. A user may squeeze the cardboard sleeve via finger pressure to deflect the plastic outer container and crush the glass ampoule wherein the flowable material is dispensed from the applicator. Other glass ampoule assemblies may utilize a cap member that fits over the applicator rather than a cardboard sleeve.
Attempts have been made to design ampoule holders that assist in rupturing the ampoule. These designs, however, have been high in cost and cumbersome in design and operation. Furthermore, the glass ampoule is not crushed in an optimum location wherein dispensing of the flowable material becomes problematic because of obstruction from fractured pieces of the glass ampoule.
Additional problems have also been experienced with the glass ampoule assemblies. In some instances, users do not have sufficient finger strength to crush the glass ampoule. For example, users of advanced age oftentimes have arthritis and cannot crush the glass ampoule. In other instances, upon rupturing the glass ampoule, glass shards puncture through the outer container and injure the user. In still other instances, the glass ampoule is typically crushed at a central location of the glass ampoule. Rupturing the ampoule at the central location leaves a dome-shaped end portion of the glass ampoule intact. The dome-shaped end portion may end up positioned at the applicator wherein the flow of the flowable material is restricted from the dispenser. Furthermore, some actuator structures are integral with the overall dispenser assembly and do not provide an ability to be reused.
While glass ampoule assemblies and associated dispenser/ampoule holders/actuator assemblies according to the prior art provide a number of advantageous features, they nevertheless have certain limitations. The present invention seeks to overcome certain of these limitations and other drawbacks of the prior art, and to provide new features and new uses not heretofore available. A full discussion of the features and advantages of the present invention is deferred to the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.
The present invention provides a dispenser actuator assembly designed to actuate a dispenser to dispense a flowable material from the dispenser.
According to a first aspect of the invention, a dispenser actuator assembly is provided for actuating a dispenser such as a glass ampoule assembly. The glass ampoule assembly has a rupturable glass ampoule containing a flowable material. The glass ampoule is contained within an outer container. The outer container has a first open end and a second closed end and the glass ampoule assembly has an applicator positioned in the first open end. The dispenser actuator assembly has a base member configured to mount on the outer container. An actuator assembly is operably connected to the base member wherein the actuator assembly has a first actuator arm and a second actuator arm each pivotally connected to the base member. The first actuator arm and the second actuator arm extend from the base member in generally opposed relation defining a first position, or first neutral position. The first actuator arm has a first protrusion depending therefrom and the second actuator arm has a second protrusion depending therefrom. The first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are pivotable from the first position towards one another to a second position, or actuating position, wherein the first protrusion is configured to engage the outer container and the second protrusion is configured to engage the outer container to rupture the glass ampoule wherein the flowable material is configured to be dispensed from the glass ampoule assembly.
According to another aspect of the invention, a dispenser actuator assembly is provided for actuating a dispenser in the form of a glass ampoule assembly. The glass ampoule assembly has a rupturable glass ampoule containing a flowable material. The glass ampoule is contained within an outer container, the outer container having a first open end and a second closed end. The glass ampoule assembly has an applicator positioned in the first open end. The dispenser actuator assembly has a base member having an opening configured to mount on the outer container. An actuator assembly has a flex plate operably connected to the base member, the actuator assembly further having a first actuator arm and a second actuator arm each connected to opposite ends of the flex plate. The first actuator arm and the second actuator arm extend from the flex plate in generally opposed relation to define a first position, or first neutral position. The first actuator arm has a first protrusion depending therefrom and the second actuator arm having a second protrusion depending therefrom. The first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are pivotable from the first position towards one another to a second position, or actuating position, wherein the flex plate flexes wherein the first protrusion is configured to engage the outer container and the second protrusion is configured to engage the outer container to crush the glass ampoule wherein the flowable material is configured to be dispensed from the glass ampoule assembly.
According to another aspect of the invention, the base member is an annular ring dimensioned to be configured to fit circumjacently around the outer container. The annular ring defines an inner surface. The inner surface has a plurality of ribs extending from the inner surface, the ribs configured to engage the outer container when the base member is mounted on the outer container. The opening of the base member extends completely through the base member.
According to a further aspect of the invention, a first slot is defined between the base member and a first end of the flex plate. A second slot is defined between the base member and a second end of the flex plate, the second slot being generally opposite the first slot.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the flex plate has a first end connected to a proximal end of the first actuator arm and the flex plate has a second end connected to a proximal end of the second actuator arm. The flex plate has a first flexion segment positioned adjacent the first end of the flex plate. The flex plate further has a second flexion segment positioned adjacent the second end of the flex plate. When the first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are pivoted to the second position, the flex plate flexes at the first flexion segment and the second flexion segment.
According to another aspect of the invention, the flex plate has a central portion having a flex plate opening therethrough, the flex plate opening being generally aligned with the opening of the base member. The flex plate opening is configured to receive the outer container when the base member is configured to mount on the outer container. In an exemplary embodiment, the flex plate opening has a diameter larger than a diameter of the opening of the base member.
According to another aspect of the invention, the flex plate has a first side rail extending between a proximal end of the first actuator arm and a proximal end of the second actuator arm, and a second side rail extending between a proximal end of the first actuator arm and a proximal of the second actuator arm. The central portion of the flex plate has a thickness less than a thickness of the first side rail and a thickness of the second side rail.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the flex plate has a central portion having a flex plate opening therethrough. The first flexion segment is defined between the flex plate opening and the first end of the flex plate and the second flexion segment is defined between the flex plate opening and the second end of the flex plate.
According to yet another aspect of the invention, the connection of the first end of the flex plate to the proximal end of the first actuator arm defines a first connection line and the connection of the second end of the flex plate to the proximal end of the second actuator arm defines a second connection line. When the first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are in the second position and the first flexion segment and the second flexion segment flex, the first actuator arm does not pivot about the first connection line and the second actuator arm does not pivot about the second connection line.
According to another aspect of the invention, when the first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are in the first position, the flex plate has a generally planar configuration.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the flexing of the first flexion segment and the second flexion segment does not apply force to the base member.
According to another aspect of the invention, the flex plate is operably connected to the base member by a connector member. The connector member has a first segment and a second segment spaced from the first segment. The first segment has a first end connected to the base member and a second end connected to the flex plate. The second segment has a first end connected to base member and a second end connected to the flex plate.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the base member has a flange and the flex plate has a first side rail and a second side rail. The first segment has a first raised tab, the first raised tab having a first end connected to the flange and a second end connected to the first side rail. The second segment has a second raised tab, the second raised tab having a first end connected to the flange and a second end connected to the second side rail.
According to another aspect of the invention, the first actuator arm has a peripheral flange and a floor segment. The floor segment is recessed with respect to the peripheral flange. The second actuator arm has a peripheral flange and a floor segment, and the floor segment of the second actuator arm is recessed with respect to the peripheral flange.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the first actuator arm has a proximal end adjacent to the flex plate, the first actuator arm having an aperture therein proximate the proximal end. The second actuator arm has a proximal end adjacent to the flex plate, the second actuator arm having an aperture proximate the proximal end. In an exemplary embodiment, the apertures do not extend completely through the first actuator arm and the second actuator arm.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the first actuator arm has a floor segment having a plurality of ridges at a distal end of the first actuator arm. The second actuator arm has a floor segment having a plurality of ridges at a distal end of the second actuator arm.
According to a further aspect of the invention, when the first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are in the first position, the first protrusion is configured to be spaced from the outer container and the second protrusion is configured to be spaced from the outer container.
According to another aspect of the invention, the first actuator arm has a distal end and an underside surface opposite a floor segment of the first actuator arm. The first actuator arm has a boss connected to the underside surface and proximate the distal end, wherein an indentation is defined between the boss and the underside surface. The second actuator arm has a distal end and an underside surface opposite a floor segment of the first actuator arm. The second arm having a boss connected to the underside surface and proximate the distal end, wherein an indentation is defined between the boss and the underside surface.
According to another aspect of the invention, the first protrusion has a first segment and a second segment and a first interface edge defined between the first segment and a second segment. The first interface edge is configured to engage the outer container to crush the glass ampoule. The second segment defines an inclined surface from the first interface edge to a distal end of the first actuator arm. In one exemplary embodiment, the second segment comprises a plurality of spaced walls. In a further exemplary embodiment, a slot is defined between a distal end of the spaced walls and an underside surface of the first actuator arm.
According to another aspect of the invention, the second protrusion has a first segment and a second segment and a second interface edge defined between the first segment and a second segment. The second interface edge is configured to engage the outer container to crush the glass ampoule. The second segment of the second protrusion defines an inclined surface from the second interface edge to a distal end of the second actuator arm. In one exemplary embodiment, the second segment of the second protrusion comprises a plurality of spaced walls. In a further exemplary embodiment, a slot is defined between a distal end of the spaced walls and an underside surface of the second actuator arm.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the glass ampoule has an interface area defined generally between a dome-shaped closed end and a generally cylindrical central potion. When the base member is configured to be mounted on the outer container, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are configured to be positioned proximate the interface area of the glass ampoule. When the first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are placed in the second position, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are configured to crush the glass ampoule at the interface area.
According to another aspect of the invention, the base member has a diameter distance wherein the base member is configured to support the glass ampoule assembly across the diameter distance. The first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are connected to the flex plate along connection lines having a lateral distance. The lateral distance is greater than the diameter distance.
According to yet another aspect of the invention, a dispenser and actuator assembly package assembly is provided. A dispenser has a crushable glass ampoule containing a flowable material. The glass ampoule is contained within an outer container, the outer container having a first open end and a second closed end. An applicator is positioned in the first open end. An actuator assembly has a base member mounted on the outer container of the dispenser. An actuator assembly is operably connected to the base member wherein the actuator assembly has a first actuator arm and a second actuator arm each pivotally connected to the base member. The first actuator arm and the second actuator arm extend from the base member in generally opposed relation to define a first position. The first actuator arm has a first protrusion depending therefrom and the second actuator arm has a second protrusion depending therefrom. A blister package has a blister layer defining a recess. The actuator assembly mounted on the dispenser is received by the recess wherein a first recess space is defined in the recess between the first actuator arm and the outer container, and a second recess space is defined in the recess between the second actuator arm and the outer container. A first blocking member is positioned in the first recess space preventing movement of the first actuator arm from the first position towards the outer container. A second block member is positioned in the second recess space preventing movement of the second actuator arm from the first position towards the outer container. A cover member is secured to the blister layer enclosing the actuator assembly, dispenser, first blocking member and the second blocking member in the blister recess.
According to another aspect of the invention, the first blocking member is a separate member from the blister layer. The second blocking member is a separate member from the blister layer.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the first blocking member is integrally formed in the blister layer. The second blocking member is integrally formed in the blister layer.
According to another aspect of the invention, the first protrusion of the first actuator member has a first inclined surface and the outer container has a straight cylindrical outer surface. The first blocking member has a first angled surface and a first primary linear surface. The first inclined surface of the first protrusion confronts and engages the first angled surface of the first blocking member and the straight cylindrical surface of the outer container confronts and engages the first primary linear surface of the first blocking member. The second protrusion of the second actuator member has a second inclined surface, and the second blocking member has a second angled surface and a second primary linear surface. The first inclined surface of the second protrusion confronts and engages the second angled surface of the second blocking member. The straight cylindrical surface of the outer container confronts and engages the second primary linear surface of the second blocking member.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the first blocking member has a circular cross-section, and the second blocking member has a circular cross-section.
According to another aspect of the invention a dispenser and actuator assembly are provided wherein the dispenser is a plastic ampoule assembly. The plastic ampoule assembly has a container having a first chamber and a second chamber. The first chamber contains a flowable material, and the second chamber defines an open end. A membrane is disposed within the container separating the first chamber and the second chamber, the membrane having a thickness and a weld seam, the weld seam having a thickness less than the thickness of the membrane. An applicator is positioned in the open end. An actuator assembly has a base member mounted on the container. An actuator assembly has a flex plate operably connected to the base member. The actuator assembly further has a first actuator arm and a second actuator arm each connected to opposite ends of the flex plate. The first actuator arm and the second actuator arm extends from the flex plate in generally opposed relation to define a first position. The first actuator arm has a first protrusion depending therefrom and the second actuator arm has a second protrusion depending therefrom. The first actuator arm and the second actuator arm are pivotable from the first position towards one another to a second position wherein the flex plate flexes wherein the first protrusion engages and deflects the container inwardly proximate the membrane and the second protrusion engages and deflects the container inwardly proximate the membrane to fracture the weld seam of the membrane wherein the flowable material passes from the first chamber past the membrane and into the second chamber wherein the flowable material is dispensed from the applicator.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the actuator assembly is used with a tandem glass ampoule assembly having multiple crushable glass ampoules contained in an outer container. The actuator assembly is slidably moveable along the container to crush the glass ampoule as respective interface areas of the glass ampoules.
Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following specification taken in conjunction with the following drawings.
To understand the present invention, it will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.
The present invention discloses a dispenser actuator assembly that can be used in conjunction with a dispenser to activate the dispenser and dispense flowable material from the dispenser. The dispenser actuator assembly may also be referred to as an ampoule actuator assembly or a dispenser holder or ampoule holder. The dispenser can take various forms and in one particular application, the dispenser may take the form of a glass ampoule assembly. The dispenser in the form of the glass ampoule assembly will be described followed by describing the dispenser actuator assembly including the connection of the components and actuating the dispenser.
In the exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly 16 of
In another exemplary embodiment, the applicator assembly 16 could be in the form of a swab assembly. The swab assembly can be made from material that promotes dispensing of the flowable material M through the swab assembly and onto a receiving surface. The applicator assembly 16 can also include other types of tips capable of applying flowable material onto a receiving surface.
In another exemplary embodiment, the applicator assembly 16 can be in the form of a dropper assembly. The applicator assembly 16 has a base having a protrusion extending therefrom at one end. The base has a dropper tip member extending from an opposite end. The applicator assembly 16 has a central conduit extending therethrough from a distal end of the protrusion to a distal end of the dropper tip member. The protrusion has a generally annular configuration and is dimensioned to be received by the open first end 36 of the second container 14. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion and the open first end 36 of the second container 14 are cooperatively dimensioned wherein the protrusion is received in the open first end 36 in an interference fit. As further described below, the applicator assembly 16 is configured to receive the flowable material M from the fractionated or crushed first container 12 and to dispense the flowable material M onto a receiving surface.
To fabricate the dispenser 10, the first chamber 20 of the first container 12 is filled with a desired flowable material M. The open end of the first container 12 through which the flowable material passed to fill the first container 12 is sealed as is known in glass ampoule technology. A sealed glass ampoule 12 having the flowable material M therein is thereby provided. The filled first container 12 is then inserted through the open first end 36 and into the second chamber 42 of the second container 14. Preferably, the first container 12 is positioned in its entirety within the second chamber 42 of the second container 14. The filter member 44, if utilized, is inserted into the open first end 36 of the second container 14 and adjacent the first end of the first container 12. Once the first container 12 is positioned in the second container 14 as well as the filter member 44, the applicator assembly 16 is connected to the second container 14. Thus, the filter member 44 is positioned between the glass ampoule 12 and the applicator assembly 16. As can be appreciated from
The cover member 18 is designed to initially cover the applicator assembly 16 prior to activating the dispenser 10. The cover member 18 is dimensioned to fit snugly over the applicator assembly 16, cover the tip 54 and extend over a portion of the dispenser 10. A distal end of the cover member 18 is a closed end. When preparing to activate the dispenser 10, the cover member 18 is removed from the dispenser 10. With the present invention as described in further detail below, the cover member 18 is not used during activation of the dispenser 10. It is also understood that the dispenser 10 can incorporate an identifying label.
It is understood that the dispenser 10 utilizes the cover member 18 in a single-use type container as described above and shown in
If desired, the dispenser 10 may also utilize the cover member 18 in the form of a cardboard sleeve, as is known the art. The cover member is designed to initially cover the applicator assembly 16 prior to activating the dispenser 10. The cover member 18 is dimensioned to fit snugly over the applicator assembly 16 and extend over a portion of the dispenser 10. One end of the cover member 18 may be closed although it is understood that both ends of the cover member 18 could be open ends. When preparing to activate the dispenser 10, the cover member 18 is removed from the dispenser 10. In certain prior art applications, an end of the dispenser 10 opposite of the applicator assembly 16 is inserted into the cover member 18. With the present invention as described in further detail below, the cover member 18 is not used during activation of the dispenser 10. As discussed, the cover member 18 is a cardboard or paper-based material in an exemplary embodiment. It is also understood that the dispenser 10 can incorporate an identifying label.
As shown in
As further shown in
The base member 102 generally includes an annular ring member 106 and a connector member 108. The annular ring member 106 is a full ring member in an exemplary embodiment that defines an opening 110 therethrough to receive the dispenser as explained in greater detail below. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the annular ring member 106 is dimensioned to fit circumjacently around the glass ampoule assembly and, in particular, the second container 14. It is understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the ring member 106 may not be a full ring member and have an interruption, slot or break in the member. The annular ring member 106 has an inner surface 112 that defines the opening 110. The inner surface 112 has a plurality of ribs 114 extending radially inwardly into the opening 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the ribs 114 extend axially or longitudinally along the inner surface 112 of the annular ring member 106. Furthermore, four ribs 114 are utilized and are spaced circumferentially on the inner surface 112 at 12 o'clock, 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions. It is further understood that a single rib 114 could be employed or other numbers of ribs 114, and further at other annular locations. The ribs 114 could also take the form of ribs extending circumferentially along the inner surface 112 of the annular ring member 106. The ribs 114 assist in providing an interference fit with the second container 14 of the glass ampoule assembly 10 when the base member 102 is mounted on the second container 14. The annular ring member 106 further has a flange 116 extending circumferentially around the ring member 106 at a proximate end of the ring member 106. The flange 116 assists in adding rigidity and strength to the proximal end of the base member 102. The added rigidity and strength provided by the flange 116 also helps when ejector pins push the base member 102 off of the mold member during the injection molding process.
As shown in
The base member 102 further defines the annular ring member 106 that defines the opening 110 for the glass ampoule assembly 10. The inner surface 112 of the base member 102 is tapered such that the entry of the base member is slightly larger at one end. In a particular exemplary embodiment, the base member 102 tapers to a larger dimension towards the actuator assembly 104. This provides for easier insertion of the glass ampoule assembly at that end. In one exemplary embodiment, there is a 2-degree taper of the inner surface 112. In other exemplary embodiments, the taper could be 1-3 degrees. It is further understood that the taper can be in an opposite direction as well. The outer container 14 of the glass ampoule assembly 10 may have a rounded end that also assists insertion/mounting between the dispenser actuator assembly 100 and the glass ampoule assembly 10.
As shown in
As shown in
The dispenser actuator assembly 100 is used with a dispenser 10 such as the glass ampoule assembly 10 to crush the glass ampoule assembly 10 and dispense flowable material from the glass ampoule assembly 10. As can be appreciated from
As further shown in
It is understood that the one of the dispenser actuator assembly 100 and the glass ampoule assembly 10 could have a locating structure thereon to properly position the dispenser actuator assembly 100 on the glass ampoule assembly 10 so that the actuator arms 132a,132b are properly positioned to crush the glass ampoule 12. The location structure can also take the form of a cooperative structure on one of or both of the dispenser actuator assembly 100 and the glass ampoule assembly 10. For example, the second container 14 of the glass ampoule assembly 10 could have an annular, radially-inwardly formed indentation that the base member 102 is received therein to automatically locate the dispenser actuator assembly 100 on the proper location on the glass ampoule assembly 10. Similarly, an outwardly extending protrusion could be located on the second container wherein the base member 102 slides over the protrusion until the actuator assembly 100 fits adjacent the protrusion to be properly located. Multiple protrusions could also be used such as outwardly extending spaced protrusions wherein the actuator assembly 100 fits within spaced protrusions to be properly located.
As can be further appreciated from
It is further understood that the first slot 118 or upper slot 118 and the second slot 120 or lower slot 120 assist on providing sufficient flexibility for the actuator arms 132a,132b. As the slots 118,120 separate the actuator arms 132a,132b from the base member 102, the actuator arms 132a,132b can pivot independently from the base member 102. This allows the base member 102 to continue to provide support for holding the glass ampoule assembly 10 independently of the pivoting of the actuator arms 132a,132b. It is further understood that the actuator arms 132a,132b themselves do not generally bend or flex as the arms 132a,132b are more rigid, but the arms 132a,132b flex or pivot. Upon crushing or rupture, the flowable material M passes from the glass ampoule 12 and into the applicator 16. Because force F is applied to the glass ampoule 12 at the first interface area 28, the domed portion of the glass ampoule 12 breaks into multiple pieces allowing enhanced flow of the flowable material M out of the glass ampoule 12 and into the second container 14 and to the applicator assembly 16. It has been determined by the inventors that if the glass ampoule 12 is crushed at the interface area 28, the domed-section will break into multiple pieces rather than remaining intact while breaking away from the intermediate section of the glass ampoule 12. The flowable material M passes from the second container 14 and into the applicator assembly 16.
As further can be appreciated from
It is understood that the applicator assembly 16 assists in minimizing the chance of glass shards from the ruptured glass ampoule 12 from passing out of the glass ampoule assembly 10. In addition, the outer wall of the second container 14 prevents glass shards from cutting fingers of the user thereby protecting the user's fingers from injury by the fractionated glass shards of the glass ampoule 12 that remain in the second container 14. Because a user engages the actuator assembly 100 to crush the glass ampoule assembly 10 rather than engaging the glass ampoule assembly 10 directly, the chance of cutting a user's fingers/thumb from glass shards is further minimized. It is understood that additional structures could be incorporated into the glass ampoule assembly 10 such as filter assemblies 44 to minimize the chance of glass shards from passing through the applicator assembly. As shown in
As further appreciated from the figures, the user dispenses the flowable material M from the glass ampoule assembly 10 with the aid of the dispenser actuator assembly 10. Once the flowable material M is emptied from the glass ampoule assembly 10, the dispenser actuator assembly 100 can be removed from the glass ampoule assembly 10. In this fashion, the dispenser actuator assembly 10 can be reused with multiple dispenser assemblies 10 or glass ampoule assemblies 10. In this configuration, the dispenser actuator assembly 100 can be formed from a more robust and higher-cost material. In other configurations, the material used to form the dispenser actuator assembly 100 could be a lower cost material that is designed as a one-time use wherein the dispenser actuator assembly 100 is disposable. In such case, the location structured used to position the dispenser actuator assembly 100 on the glass ampoule assembly 10 could be structured to permanently attach the dispenser actuator assembly 100 to the glass ampoule assembly 10. Once the flowable material M is fully dispensed from the glass ampoule assembly, the attached structures can be simply discarded together.
It is understood that the dispenser actuator assembly 100 can be formed in an injection molding process to form a unitary one-piece member. A wide variety of materials can be used to form the dispenser actuator assembly 100 wherein the actuator arms 132a,132b are resiliently pivotable to actuate the glass ampoule assembly and then be reused on additional glass ampoule assemblies. As discussed, it is understood that in an exemplary embodiment, the actuator arms 132a,132b are generally rigid and do not bend or flex themselves, but rather pivot about the connector members or in relation to the base member 102. Similarly, the depending protrusions 150a,150b are rigid and do flex themselves. In an exemplary embodiment, the dispenser actuator assembly is made from one of the polyolefin family of resins.
As discussed herein, the dispenser actuator assembly 100 has been described herein as having a base member 102 and an actuator assembly 104 having a first actuator arm 132a and a second actuator arm 132b. A connector member 108 has been described that connects the base member 102 and the actuator assembly 104. It is understood that the actuator arms 132a,132b pivot towards one another, and pivot with respect to the base member 102 and connector member 108. It is understood that the assembly 100 could also be considered that the first actuator arm 132a and the second actuator arm 132b are connected by a central hub member 180 or flex plate 180, or torsion plate 180. In particular, a proximal end 134a of the first actuator arm 132a is connected to a top portion or first end of the flex plate 180, and a proximal end 134b of the second actuator arm 132b is connected to a bottom portion or second end of the flex plate 180. The first end of the flex plate 180 is generally opposite to the second end of the flex plate 180. In one exemplary embodiment, the flex plate 180 is then considered to be part of the actuator assembly 104. The flex plate 180 is generally connected between the actuator arms 132a,132b and, as discussed, the first end, or upper end of the flex plate 180 is connected to the proximal end 134a of the first actuator arm 132a, and an opposite second end, or lower end of the flex plate 180 is connected to the proximal end 134b of the second actuator arm 132b. In this configuration, the base member 102 is still operably connected to the actuator assembly 104 by the connector member 108. The flex plate 180 serves as a transition structure from the base member 102 to the actuator arms 132a,132b.
As can be further appreciated from
As previously discussed and as shown in
As further shown in
The base member 102 utilizing the slots 118,120 or the flex plate 180 and slots 118,120 provides structural and functional advantageous features. As discussed, the actuator arms 132a,132b do not pivot or flex towards one another at a specific point or location. The flex plate 180 flexes as shown in
Finally, the structural features of the flex plate 180 and actuator arms 132a,132b minimize unwanted lateral movement of the actuator arms 132a,132b. The actuator arms 132a,132b are connected laterally across the entire lateral dimension of the flex plate 180, e.g., the first and second connection lines 194,196, which connection generally resists lateral movement of the actuator arms 132a,132b. Minimizing any lateral movement of the actuator arms 132a,132b is desirable as it can affect the proper crush of the glass ampoule 12 as the protrusion 150a,150b may slip to the side of the glass ampoule 12 preventing crushing. As shown in
As discussed, in an exemplary embodiment, the dispenser actuator assembly 100 is formed as a single unit in an injection molding process.
As discussed, the mold members 200,202,204 cooperate with a gate that receives a source of injection molded material and delivers the material into the mold cavity 206.
It is understood that the dispenser actuator assembly 100 is formed in the mold cavity including the first actuator arm 132a and the second actuator arm 132b. As shown in
It is understood that additional features can be incorporated into the molding process. The gates for injecting molded material MM into the mold cavity 206 can be varied to achieve desired characteristics in the assembly. In a further exemplary embodiment, a multi-shot molding process could be utilized. For example, a two-shot molding process could be utilized wherein the flex plate structure is molded from a more flexible material while other structures of the assembly 100 such as the base member 102 and the actuator assembly 104 are formed from a more rigid material.
The dispenser actuator assembly 100 can be formed in the injection molding process from a variety of different injected molded materials. Selection of the material will depend on the desired operational characteristics of the assembly 100 such as the amount of rupturing force to be generated. The assembly 100 could be formed from polyolefin family of resins. The material could be polyethylene or polypropylene and a combination thereof. The material could also be nylon. Because of the structural features described above, it is possible to use more rigid/brittle materials as well as materials having a higher flexural modulus. The material could also be amorphous polymers including acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or polycarbonate. The material for the assembly 100 could further be a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) material. With the broader selection of materials possible, the assembly 100 can also be used in a broader range of applications requiring rupturing of different types of containers. The dispenser actuator assembly 100 could also be made of materials for specialty application such as materials that are capable of being autoclavable.
It is understood that the dispenser actuator assembly 100 can have certain modified structures to enhance the operability of the assembly 100.
Prior to the invention, a user typically must squeeze, via finger pressure, the outer container 14 of the glass ampoule assembly 10 to crush the glass ampoule 12. The squeezing thumb/fingers provides a force to deform the outer container 14 and crush the glass ampoule 12. The required finger pressure could be considered significant for certain users having limited strength in their respective digits. The dispenser actuator assembly 100 provides mechanical advantage from the actuator arms 132a,132b wherein the required finger pressure can be reduced.
It is understood that the dispenser actuator assembly 100 and the glass ampoule assembly 10 may be distributed or sold as a kit, e.g., together as a single unit package.
As discussed, the package assembly 220 may be considered a blister package wherein a cover member 230 or film member 230 is adhered over the blister layer 222 to seal the tandem unit in the package assembly 200 until ready to be used. The cover member 230 can also be made from a variety of materials including a paper material, a thermoplastic film layer or a foil layer or still other materials. The foil member could be an aluminum foil. The cover member 230 could also be formed from a laminate material of a paper and a metal foil layer. The foil layer could also be coated with a film of a thermoplastic material such as polyethylene, polystyrene or the like. The cover member 230 is secured to the blister layer 222 by sealing through the application of heat and pressure. Other sealing techniques between the cover member 230 and the blister layer 222 can also be utilized. In one exemplary embodiment, the cover member 230 is releasably secured or releasably sealed to the blister layer 222. The cover member 230 may define a pull tab for a user to pull the cover member 230 from the blister layer 222. In other exemplary embodiments, the cover member 230 can be punctured or torn to gain access to the dispenser and actuator assembly tandem unit. The tandem unit in the package assembly 220 can then be further packaged, boxed, shipped or otherwise transported in preparation for use.
Similarly, a second blocking member 232 is positioned in the package space PS or recess space PS in the second recess section 228 generally between the second actuator arm 132b and the second container 14 of the glass ampoule assembly 10 (e.g., generally opposed to the first blocking member 232). In particular, the second angled surface 234 of the second blocking member 232 is positioned in confronting relation to the second segment 154b of the depending protrusion 150b, that defines a second inclined surface of the second actuator arm 132b. In an exemplary embodiment, the respective surfaces of the second angled surface 234 and depending protrusion 150 engage one another. It is understood that a small gap could be present if desired. The primary linear surface 236 of the second blocking member 232 engages the outer surface of the second container 14 of the glass ampoule assembly 10, e.g. the straight cylindrical surface of the second container 14. The secondary linear surface 238 engages a rear wall portion of the second recess section 228. Thus, the second wedge member 232 is confined or wedged between the second actuator arm 132b and the second container 14 of the glass ampoule assembly 10. As further shown in
As can be appreciated from
The kit described above may include the dispenser 10, the dispenser actuator assembly 100 and the package assembly 220 including any desired blocking members 232. It is understood that the kit could include different combinations of such elements or additional elements. For example, the kit could contain multiple applicator assemblies 16 to be used for dispensing flowable materials in different applications. The applicator assembly 16 may also be provided having different tips 54 for different applications.
As discussed above, the dispenser actuator assembly 100 can be utilized to actuate a glass ampoule assembly such as shown in
As described above, the dispenser actuator assembly 100 can be used with a dispenser 10 such as a glass ampoule assembly 10. It is understood that the dispenser actuator assembly 100 can also be used with other types of dispensers 10 that utilize a rupturable feature in order to dispense flowable materials M from the dispenser 10.
The dispenser actuator assembly 100 provides several benefits. The actuator assembly provides mechanical advantage for a user to crush, rupture or fracture the dispenser. The actuator arms can vary in length and resiliency to provide a desired mechanical force in rupturing the dispenser. Because the dispenser actuator assembly allows for a user to apply an increased force than from finger pressure alone, the assembly can be used to rupture more robustly designed dispensers. Such dispensers may be designed to crush under an increased force to minimize the chances of inadvertent rupture. In addition, the dispenser actuator assembly is designed to crush the glass ampoule at the optimal location at the interface area proximate the domed-portion of the glass ampoule to enhance the rupturing of the glass ampoule. Furthermore, as the user engages the actuator arms of the assembly rather than directly engaging the outer container of the dispenser, the chances that glass shards from the crushed glass ampoule can injure the fingers or hand of the user is minimized. The dispenser actuator assembly can also be adjustably mounted along a length of the glass ampoule assembly. For example, the dispenser actuator assembly can be slid along a length of the outer container of the glass ampoule assembly to a desired location. This helps in further manipulating flowable material from the glass ampoule assembly. In addition, the dispenser actuator assembly 100 can be removable attached to the dispenser. Once the dispenser is crushed and the flowable material is dispensed from the dispenser, the dispenser actuator assembly can be removed from the dispenser and used to crush multiple other dispensers. It is understood as well that the dispenser actuator assembly 100 could be manufactured as a single-use assembly that is discarded. It is further understood that the assembly 100 can be positionally adjusted on the glass ampoule assembly 10 to manipulate flowable material as desired or break the glass ampoule at a particular location. It is further understood that the flex plate structure provides several benefits as discussed above including flexing across a greater distance on the plate as well as providing for movement of the actuator arms independently of the support of the glass ampoule assembly by the base member.
It is understood that any reference to an element using designations such as “first” or “second” or the like does not limit the quantity or order of those elements, unless such limitation is explicitly stated. These designations are used to distinguish between elements or other references to an element. Accordingly, a reference to a first element or a second element does not mean that only two elements may be employed or that the first element must precede the second element in some manner. In addition, a set of elements may comprise one or more elements. In addition, references to “top” or “bottom” or “front” or “rear” are used to reference relative positions of elements and should be construed as a limiting positional requirement.
It is further understood that the present description includes several different embodiments with different features depending on the embodiment being described. It is understood that the various features or structures can be combined among the various embodiments in further exemplary embodiments of the invention.
The dispenser 10 is permitted to be used in a wide variety of uses and applications, and contain and dispense a large variety of fluids and other flowable substances. The following is a non-exhaustive discussion regarding the many possible uses for the dispenser of the present invention, and in particular, the types of materials that are capable of being contained in the dispensers and dispensed therefrom. It is understood that related uses to those described below are also possible with the dispenser. It is also understood that the following discussion of potential uses is applicable to any of the dispenser embodiments disclosed and discussed herein.
The dispenser used with the dispenser actuator assembly of the present invention is designed to primarily contain and dispense flowable materials that are fluids. Other flowable materials can also be dispensed. For example, the flowable material could be a liquid, powder, gel or other type of flowable substance or flowable material. Also, in other embodiments such as dispensers containing multiple chambers for different flowable materials, the flowable materials M1, M2 could both be fluids. In another embodiment, the first flowable material M1 could be a liquid, and the second flowable material M2 could be a powder to be mixed with the fluid. Other combinations depending on the use are also permissible.
This permits the dispenser 10 to be used in a wide variety of uses and applications, and contain and dispense a large variety of fluids and other flowable substances. The following is a non-exhaustive discussion regarding the many possible uses for the dispenser of the present invention, and in particular, the types of materials that are capable of being contained in the dispensers and dispensed therefrom. It is understood that related uses to those described below are also possible with the dispenser. It is also understood that the following discussion of potential uses is applicable to any of the dispenser embodiments disclosed and discussed herein.
In one example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in medical applications. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the dispenser may contain a surgical antiseptic such as for cleaning and preparing a body area for incision, and sometimes referred to as a surgical prep solution. One type of antiseptic may be chlorohexidine gluconate (CHG). This CHG-based antiseptic could also be combined with a medical sealant such as cyano-acrylic wherein the dispenser is used to contain and dispense cyano-acrylic chlorohexidine gluconate (CACHG). Other types of medical sealants could also be used. Other types of antiseptics could be iodine-based such as iodophoric skin tinctures, which are commercially available. Other antiseptics and antimicrobial agents could also include other iodine-based complexes, alcohol-based complexes or peroxides. Additional additives may also be used with the antiseptic such as colorants. A single chamber dispenser may be used in such an application, but a multi-chamber dispenser such as disclosed herein may also be used.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in adhesive-type applications. The dispenser can dispense a flowable material or mixture that is an adhesive, epoxy, or sealant, such as an epoxy adhesive, craft glue, non-medical super glue and medical super glue. The dispenser could also be used with shoe glue, ceramic epoxy and formica repair glue. The dispenser could further be used for a variety of other adhesive dispensing applications, mastic-related resins or the like.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in automotive applications. The dispenser can dispense a flowable material or mixture that is an automotive product, such as a rear view mirror repair kit, a vinyl repair kit, auto paints, an auto paint touch up kit, a window replacement kit, a scent or air freshener, a windshield wiper blade cleaner, a lock de-icer, a lock lubricant, a liquid car wax, a rubbing compound, a paint scratch remover, a glass/mirror scratch remover, oils, radiator stop-leak, a penetrating oil, or a tire repair patch adhesive. Other automotive applications could include acetone-based products such as windshield primer. Additional automotive applications could be for general auto/motorcycle or bicycle repair kits including chain oils.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in chemistry-related applications. The dispenser can dispense a flowable material or mixture that is a chemistry material such as a laboratory chemical, a buffer solution, a rehydration solution of bacteria, a biological stain, or a rooting hormone. The dispenser may also be used as a chemical tester. In one such application, the dispenser can be used for testing drinks for various “date rape” drugs. Other types of chemical testers are also possible. The dispenser could be used to contain various types of chemicals including solvents. In a particular application, the additional material formulations used to form the dispenser allow the dispenser to store and dispense methyl ethyl ketone.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used to dispense a flowable material or mixture is a cosmetic and beauty supply/toiletry product. For example, the dispenser can be used for a nail polish, lip gloss, body cream, body gel, body paints, hand sanitizer, nail polish remover, liquid soaps, skin moisturizers, skin peels, tooth whiteners, hotel samples, mineral oils, toothpastes, mouthwash or sunscreens. The flowable material could also be a fragrance such as women's perfume or men's cologne. The flowable material could also be tattoo inks. The flowable material could be used for solutions for treating and/or removing tattoo ink.
The cosmetic applications could also include hair care type applications. In another particular example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in a hair dye kit. Certain hair dye kits come in multiple components that are separately stored wherein the dispenser embodiment disclosed herein having a dividing wall that cooperates to define separate chambers can be utilized. Thus, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in a two-part hair care product such as a hair dye kit. A first flowable substance of the hair dye kit can be carried in the first chamber, and a second flowable substance of the hair dye kit can be carried in the second chamber. The membrane is ruptured wherein the two flowable substances can be mixed together to form a mixture or solution. The mixture or solution can then be dispensed from the dispenser onto the hair of a user. The dispenser can also dispense a flowable material or mixture in other hair care products, such as hair bleaches, hair streaking agent, hair highlighter, shampoos, other hair colorants, conditioners, hair gels, mousse, hair removers, or eyebrow dye.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in crafting applications or stationary products. The dispenser can also dispense a large variety of stationery or craft products, such as magic markers, glitter gels, glitter markers, glitter glues, gel markers, craft clues, fabric dyes, fabric paints, permanent markers, dry erase markers, dry eraser cleaner, glue sticks, rubber cement, typographic correction fluids, ink dispensers and refills, paint pens, counterfeit bill detection pen, envelope squeeze moisturizers, adhesive label removers, highlighters, and ink jet printer refills.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can also dispense a flowable material or mixture that is an electronics-related product. For example, the electronics product could be a cleaning compound, a telephone receiver sanitizer, cell phone cleaner or protectants, a keyboard cleaner, a cassette recorder cleaner, audio/video disc cleaner, a mouse cleaner, or a liquid electrical tape.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can dispense a flowable material or mixture in food product applications. For example, the food product may be food additives, food colorings, coffee flavorings, cooling oils, spices, flavor extracts, food additives, drink additives, confections, cake gel, pastry gel, frostings, sprinkles, breath drops, condiments, sauces, liquors, alcohol mixes, energy drinks, or herbal teas and drinks.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in home repair product and home improvement applications. The dispenser can also dispense a flowable material that is a home repair product, such as a caulking compounds or materials, a scratch touch up kit, a stain remover, a furniture repair product, a wood glue, a patch lock, screw anchor, wood tone putty or porcelain touch-up. The dispenser could also dispense a plumbing flux applicator, rust remover and tree wound treatment. In certain home repair or home improvement applications, the dispenser can be used in paint applications. The dispenser can dispense a variety of paint products such as general paints including interior/exterior paints, novelty paints, paint additives, wood stain samples, varnishes, stains, lacquers, caulk, paint mask fluid or paint remover.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in household related products. For example, the dispenser could be used for cleaning agents, pest control products, a fish tank sealant or a fish tank treatment, a leak sealant, a nut/bolt locker, screw tightener/gap filler, a super glue remover or goo-b-gone. The dispenser could also be used for a colorant dispenser, or disinfectants, a plant food, fertilizers, bug repellants or a cat litter deodorant. The dispenser could also dispense toilet dyes and treatments, eyeglass cleaners, shoe polishes, clothing stain removers, carpet cleaners and spot removers, multi-purpose oils, and ultrasonic cleaner concentrate. The household product could include a variety of pet-related products including but not limited to an animal medicine dispenser, pet medications, animal measured food dispenser, pet shampoos or odor eliminator liquids. A large variety of pest control products can be dispensed by the dispenser, including insect attractants, pesticides, pet insect repellants, pest sterilizers, insect repellants, lady bug attractant and fly trap attractant. The household product could also include various types of polishes, reagents, indicators and other products.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in lubricant applications. The dispenser can dispense a large variety of lubricants including industrial lubricants, oils, greases, graphite lubricants or a dielectric grease.
The dispenser of the present invention can also be used in other medical applications including medical related products, medicinal products and medicaments. Additional medical related product applications can include skin adhesive kits to be used in place of traditional stitching products. As discussed, the dispenser could also be used with topical antiseptics, antimicrobials and surgical scrub products. In addition, the dispenser 10 can dispense a large variety of medicinal products, such as blister medicines, cold sore treatments, insect sting and bite relief products, skin cleaning compounds, skin sealing solutions, skin rash lotions, nasal sanitizers, nasal medications, tissue markers, topical antimicrobials, topical demulcent, treatments for acne such as acne medications, umbilical area antiseptics, cough medicines, waterless hand sanitizers, toothache remedies, cold medicines, sublingual dosages or wart treatments. For example, the dispenser could contain a medicinal product containing hydrogen-peroxide used for dermatological conditions such as warts, seborrheic keratosis or similar skin conditions. The dispenser could also be used to dispense compositions for treating various other skin conditions. The dispenser could also be used in conjunction with a medical device product. Other medical related applications could include various types of dental related products including different types of compounds and treatments applied to a patients' teeth. The dispenser could also be used in veterinary related products.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in novelty products. For example, the dispenser can contain materials in a glow-stick device. In such instance, the dispenser is a container that may contain multiple components separately stored until activation to create a glowing state in response to mixture of the components. Furthermore, the dispenser can dispense a flowable material or mixture that is a chemiluminescent light, a Christmas tree scent, a glitter gel, and a face paint. Other types of novelty paints could also be used with the dispenser.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in sports products. The dispenser can dispense a variety of sports products including sports eye black, football hand glue, and baseball glove conditioner and pine tar. The dispenser can also dispense wildlife lures. The dispenser can be used in various camping related applications including portable lighting fuels for camp lights or other devices and tent repair kits. The dispenser can also be used in bingo or other game markers.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in test kit applications. The dispenser can dispense a flowable material or mixture that is a test kit, such as a lead test kit, a drug kit, a radon test kit, a narcotic test kit, a swimming pool test kit (e.g., chlorine, pH, alkalinity etc.), a home water quality tester, a soil test kit, a gas leak detection fluid, a pregnancy tester, or a respirator test kit. The dispenser can also dispense a flowable material or mixture that as part of a medical device test kit, such as a culture media, a drug monitoring system, a microbiological reagent, a streptococcus test kit, or a residual disinfectant tester. The dispenser may also be used in diagnostic testing kits, explosive testing kits or other test kits. The dispenser can be used in breathalyzer tests, culture media samples and drug test kits.
In another example, the dispenser of the present invention can be used in personal care products or wellness-related products. The dispenser can also dispense a flowable material or mixture that is a personal care product, such as shaving cream or gel, aftershave lotion, skin conditioner, skin cream, skin moisturizer, petroleum jelly, insect repellant, personal lubricant, ear drops, eye drops, nose drops, corn medications, nail fungal medication, aging liquids, acne cream, contact lens cleaner, denture repair kit, finger nail repair kit, liquid soaps, sun screen, lip balm, tanning cream, self-tanning solutions, eye wash solution finger nail repair kits. The dispenser can also be used with aroma therapy products and homeopathic preparations. The dispenser can also dispense various vitamins, minerals, supplements and pet vitamins.
The dispenser can also dispense a flowable material or mixture in a variety of other miscellaneous applications. Such miscellaneous applications may include, but not be limited to use in connection with a suction device for culture sampling, taking various liquid samples or taking various swabbing samples. The dispenser could also be used for float and sinker devices, dye markers, microbiological reagents, and also for manufacturing parts assembly liquids and irrigation solutions. The dispenser may also be used as a chalk dispenser such as in construction applications.
Thus, the dispenser can be used in many different applications including mechanical, chemical, electrical or biomedical uses. The dispenser can dispense any variety of flowable materials including liquids and powders, and further including a liquid and a powder, two or more powders, or two or more liquids. The dispenser may be used as part of 2-part system (mix before use) including a liquid with a powder, a liquid with a liquid, a powder with a powder, or sealed inside another tube or product container or partially sealed, connected or attached to another container. The dispenser may also be used as part of a plunger dispensing system.
While the invention has been described in its preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the words which have been used are words of description rather than limitation and that changes may be made within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the true scope and spirit of the invention in its broader aspects.
The present application is a continuation application and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/598,928 filed on Oct. 10, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62/744,460, filed on Oct. 11, 2018, which applications are incorporated by reference in their entireties and made a part hereof.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62744460 | Oct 2018 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16598928 | Oct 2019 | US |
| Child | 18149481 | US |
