U.S. patent application number 11/382504 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-16 for fluid container with integrated valve.
This patent application is currently assigned to PAR Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to William M. DONALDSON.
Application Number | 20060255064 11/382504 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37397266 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060255064 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DONALDSON; William M. |
November 16, 2006 |
FLUID CONTAINER WITH INTEGRATED VALVE
Abstract
Embodiments of fluid storage containers (312) comprise a
displaceable electrodynamic valve (344) for selectively regulating
release of fluid from the container. The fluid storage container
has a port (342) and comprises means for defining a reservoir (330)
for accommodating a pressurizing a fluid. A displaceable
electrodynamic valve selectively opens and closes the port and
thereby regulates release of the pressurized fluid from the
container. In some implementations, the container has a lid (400)
and the port is provided in the container lid. In other
implementations, the container has a container body, and the port
is provided in the container body. The displaceable electrodynamic
valve (344) can take various configurations (e.g., flapper,
solenoid) and various forms (e.g., piezoelectric valve) in
differing example embodiments. In some embodiments a compressor
(361) is provided for pressurizing the fluid, and can also take
various forms.
Inventors: |
DONALDSON; William M.;
(Newport News, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
NIXON & VANDERHYE, PC
901 NORTH GLEBE ROAD, 11TH FLOOR
ARLINGTON
VA
22203
US
|
Assignee: |
PAR Technologies, LLC
Hampton
VA
|
Family ID: |
37397266 |
Appl. No.: |
11/382504 |
Filed: |
May 10, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60700736 |
Jul 20, 2005 |
|
|
|
60679227 |
May 10, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
222/95 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B67D 7/0216 20130101;
A61M 2205/0283 20130101; A61M 5/1486 20130101; A61M 5/14224
20130101; A61J 1/14 20130101; A61M 2205/0294 20130101; A61M 5/16809
20130101; A61M 5/14212 20130101; A61M 5/142 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/095 |
International
Class: |
B65D 35/28 20060101
B65D035/28 |
Claims
1. A fluid storage container comprising: a collapsible bladder for
accommodating a fluid, the bladder having a port; a container body
for at least partially enclosing the bladder; a displaceable
electrodynamic valve for selectively opening and closing the port
and thereby regulating release of the fluid from the bladder; and a
compressor for applying pressure to the bladder to expel fluid from
the bladder through the port when the valve is open.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the displaceable
electrodynamic valve is a piezoelectric valve.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the displaceable
electrodynamic valve is a valve comprised of a electroreactive
polymer, a valve comprised of a electrorestrictive member, a valve
comprised of a memory alloy, or a valve comprised of a
magneto-restrictive element.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the compressor is a spring
biased for applying pressure to the bladder.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the compressor comprises a
gravity weighted member for applying pressure to the bladder.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the compressor provides a
chemical reaction for applying pressure to the bladder.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the compressor produces a gas
for applying pressure to the bladder.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the displaceable
electrodynamic valve is configured as a flapper valve.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the displaceable
electrodynamic valve is configured as a solenoid valve.
10. A fluid storage container having a port and comprising: means
for defining a reservoir for accommodating a pressurizing a fluid;
a displaceable electrodynamic valve for selectively opening and
closing the port and thereby regulating release of the pressurized
fluid from the container.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the displaceable
electrodynamic valve is a piezoelectric valve.
12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the displaceable
electrodynamic valve is a valve comprised of a electroreactive
polymer, a valve comprised of a electrorestrictive member, a valve
comprised of a memory alloy, or a valve comprised of a
magneto-restrictive element.
13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the displaceable
electrodynamic valve is configured as a flapper valve.
14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the displaceable
electrodynamic valve is configured as a solenoid valve.
15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the container has a lid, and
wherein the port is provided in the container lid.
16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the container has an
essentially rigid container body, and wherein the port is provided
in the container body.
17. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising means for
pressurizing the fluid in the reservoir.
18. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a spring for
pressurizing the fluid in the reservoir.
19. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a gravity
weighted member for pressurizing the fluid in the reservoir.
20. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a compressor
which provides a chemical reaction for pressurizing the fluid in
the reservoir.
21. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a compressor
which produces a gas for pressurizing the fluid in the reservoir.
Description
[0001] This application claims the priority and benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application 60/700,736, filed Jul. 20, 2005, and
U.S. Provisional Patent Application 60/679,227, filed May 10, 2005,
and is related to simultaneously-filed U.S. patent application Ser.
No. ______ (attorney docket: 4209-113), entitled "DISPOSABLE FLUID
CONTAINER WITH INTEGRATED PUMP MOTIVE ASSEMBLY", all of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention pertains to the dispensing of fluids,
particularly liquids, from a container which is inexpensive and
preferably at least partially disposable.
[0004] 2. Related Art and Other Considerations
[0005] In myriad environments fluids are delivered or dispensed in
controlled manner from disposable, inexpensive containers (e.g.,
bags, pouches, cartons, cartridges, just to name a few). The
dispensing may be controlled to obtain a required or target dosage
or amount over time, such as (for example) control of a medicament
to a patient or an ingredient utilized in an industrial or other
process.
[0006] Typically such control is achieved by connecting the
disposable container to a host device, e.g., by various tubes or
hoses, and allowing a pump at or near the host device or other
device external to the container to draw fluid in metered manner
from the container. When the container is closed and flexible, the
pumping of the fluid essentially collapses the container. Such pump
may be, for example, a peristaltic or other type of pump, and
generally is rather sophisticated, bulky, and expensive. Over time
successive containers of fluid are connected to the host device so
that the external pump is utilized for the successive containers,
typically having a working life comparable to that of the host
device (e.g., on the order of years). In view of reuse of the host
device, the pumps that are utilized are of the type that do not
have direct contact with the fluid being dispensed or delivery. For
example, a peristaltic pump has rollers or the like which contact a
tube through which the fluid is supplied, but do not contact the
fluid. In some fields and applications such as medicine and
industrial processes, it is important (in view of reuse of the pump
components) that the pump components not be contaminated by
previous use, or in any way serve as a potential source of
contamination or mixing for future jobs. In such host devices, the
pumps that are utilized are never filled with fluids, but merely
serve as indirect transmission agents for conveying fluid.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0007] Embodiments of fluid storage containers comprise a
displaceable electrodynamic valve for selectively regulating
release of fluid from the container.
[0008] In some embodiments, the fluid storage container comprises a
collapsible bladder for accommodating a liquid; a container body
for at least partially enclosing the bladder; a displaceable
electrodynamic valve for selectively opening and closing a port of
the bladder and thereby regulating release of the liquid from the
bladder; and a compressor for applying pressure to the bladder to
expel liquid from the bladder through the port when the valve is
open.
[0009] In other embodiments, the fluid storage container has a port
and comprises means for defining a reservoir for accommodating a
pressurizing a fluid. A displaceable electrodynamic valve
selectively opens and closes the port and thereby regulates release
of the pressurized fluid from the container. In some
implementations of these embodiments, the container has a lid and
the port is provided in the container lid. In other
implementations, the container has a container body, and the port
is provided in the container body. The container body may a rigid
container body.
[0010] The compressor can take various forms in differing example
embodiments. In one example embodiment the compressor is a spring
biased for applying pressure to the bladder. In another example
embodiment the compressor comprises a gravity weighted member for
applying pressure to the bladder. In yet another example embodiment
the compressor provides a chemical reaction for applying pressure
to the bladder.
[0011] In other embodiments, the fluid storage container comprises
an essentially rigid container body for accommodating a pressurized
fluid, the container body having a port and a displaceable
electrodynamic valve for selectively opening and closing the port
and thereby regulating release of the pressurized fluid from the
container body.
[0012] In differing implementations of the various embodiments, the
displaceable electrodynamic valve can be a piezoelectric valve, a
valve comprised of a electroreactive polymer, a valve comprised of
a electrorestrictive member, a valve comprised of a memory alloy,
or a valve comprised of a magneto-restrictive element.
[0013] In the differing embodiments, the displaceable
electrodynamic valve can take various configurations, such as a
flapper-type valve or a diaphragm-actuated solenoid type valve.
[0014] As one distinct aspect of this container technology, the
displaceable electrodynamic valve can be connected via an
electrical lead and/or terminal to receive valve driving signals
from outside the container. For example, the valve can be connected
to receive valve driving signals from the host device.
Alternatively, the valve can be connected to receive valve driving
signals from a drive device which is distinct from the host
device.
[0015] As another distinct aspect of this container technology, the
container may include a memory device for storing container
information in electronic form. Contents of the memory device
(e.g., the container information stored in electronic form) can be
accessed by a drive device or other external device via an
electrical lead and/or terminal. The container information stored
in electronic form can be one or more of container identification
information, container fluid contents information, container volume
information, and the like. The memory device can take the form of
an EEPROM or the like.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of
the invention will be apparent from the following more particular
description of preferred embodiments as illustrated in the
accompanying drawings in which reference characters refer to the
same parts throughout the various views. The drawings are not
necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon
illustrating the principles of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 1A is a front view of a fluid container according to a
first example embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 1B is a right sectioned view of the fluid container of
FIG. 1A taken along line 1B-1B.
[0019] FIG. 2A is a detailed front sectioned view of a portion of
the fluid container of FIG. 2A showing selective closure of a
displaceable electrodynamic valve.
[0020] FIG. 2B is a detailed front sectioned view of a portion of
the fluid container of FIG. 2A showing selective opening of a
displaceable electrodynamic valve.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a detailed front sectioned view of a portion of a
fluid container wherein a displaceable electrodynamic valve takes
the form of a piezoelectric valve.
[0022] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C are front views showing
differing embodiments of fluid handling systems comprising both a
fluid container and a host or device.
[0023] FIG. 5 is a front view of a fluid container according to
another example embodiment having a different type of
compressor.
[0024] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are front views of fluid containers
according to yet other example embodiments having a yet different
type of compressor.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a front view of a fluid container according to
another example embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are front sectioned views of a fluid
container according to another example embodiment, with FIG. 8A
showing a displaceable electrodynamic valve actuated so that the
container is closed and FIG. 8B showing the displaceable
electrodynamic valve actuated so that the container is open.
[0027] FIG. 9 is a front sectioned view of a fluid container
according to an example embodiment wherein a displaceable
electrodynamic valve is situated in a container lid.
[0028] FIG. 10 is a front sectioned view of a fluid container
according to another example embodiment wherein a displaceable
electrodynamic valve is situated in a container lid.
[0029] FIG. 11 is a front sectioned view of a fluid container
according to another example embodiment wherein a displaceable
electrodynamic valve is situated in a container lid.
[0030] FIG. 12 is a front sectioned view of a fluid container
according to another example embodiment wherein a displaceable
electrodynamic valve is situated in a container lid.
[0031] FIG. 13A-FIG. 13B are front sectioned views of a fluid
container according to another example embodiment wherein a
displaceable electrodynamic valve is situated in a container lid,
with FIG. 13A showing the displaceable electrodynamic valve
actuated so that the container is closed and FIG. 13B showing the
displaceable electrodynamic valve actuated so that the container is
open.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] In the following description, for purposes of explanation
and not limitation, specific details are set forth such as
particular architectures, interfaces, techniques, etc. in order to
provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However,
it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present
invention may be practiced in other embodiments that depart from
these specific details. In other instances, detailed descriptions
of well-known devices, circuits, and methods are omitted so as not
to obscure the description of the present invention with
unnecessary detail. Moreover, individual function blocks are shown
in some of the figures. Those skilled in the art will appreciate
that the functions may be implemented using individual hardware
circuits, using software functioning in conjunction with a suitably
programmed digital microprocessor or general purpose computer,
using an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and/or
using one or more digital signal processors (DSPs).
[0033] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate an example fluid container
312 according to a non-limiting example embodiment. The fluid
container 312 comprises a container body 314. The container body
314 can take various shapes such as an essentially quadrilateral
shape as shown in particular implementation illustrated in FIG. 1A
and FIG. 1B. Alternatively, container body 314 can be form with a
different shape, such as a different cross section in a plane
perpendicular to the plane of the FIG. 1A. Such cross sectional
shape, instead of being rectangular, could be (for example)
circular or even oval, or other appropriate shape conducive to the
application of use of the fluid. Likely in most embodiments the
container body 314 has at least a front wall 315; a rear wall 316;
and a top or end wall 317. The container body 314 also includes
(unlabeled) sidewalls in a quadrilateral implementation.
[0034] Opposite top or end wall 317, container body 314 has a lid
or removable closure wall 318. The lid 318 can engage either the
interior of a mouth of container body 314 (as shown), or engage an
exterior perimeter of container body 314, such engagement being by
any suitable means. For example, (if circular) the perimeter of lid
318 can be threaded for engagement with counter threads on
container body 314. Alternatively, lid 318 can be latched or
otherwise secured to container body 314.
[0035] The container body 314 is preferably substantially rigid or
semi-rigid and sized to define an interior cavity of sufficient
capacity to accommodate a collapsible bladder 320. The collapsible
bladder 320, in turn, accommodates a liquid, preferably a liquid
but possibly a gas. In one example, non-limiting embodiment,
collapsible bladder 320 is comprised of flexible plys or layers
(e.g., front layer 324 and rear layer 326, both shown in FIG. 1B).
In such plied embodiment, the collapsible bladder 320 defines a
fluid reservoir 330 which is bounded on its sides by a seam 332
which joins front layer 324 and rear layer 326.
[0036] The shape and configuration of the container body 314,
collapsible bladder 320, and fluid reservoir 330 defined therein
can vary depending on implementation, only an example being shown
in the embodiment of FIG. 1A and other embodiments. The collapsible
bladder 320 can optionally comprise or have attached thereto
additional features or accessories, such as one or more flanges
336, 337, and 338. In the illustrated implementation of the first
embodiment, the flanges include left bottom corner flange 336;
right bottom corner flange 337; and, bottom central flange 338.
Preferably the flanges 336, 337, and 338 are formed by union or
bonding of front layer 324 and rear layer 326, and are preferably
relatively flat regions.
[0037] The collapsible bladder 320 can be formed from any suitable
material, examples of which are provided subsequently. In some
example implementations, one or both of front layer 324 and rear
layer 326 of collapsible bladder 320 can be transparent, as can be
one or more walls of container body 314, thereby affording
visibility of the fluid contained in fluid reservoir 330 and other
internal contents and/or features of fluid container 312. Even
though the internal contents and/or features may be visible because
of such transparency, in the drawings the internal contents and/or
features are illustrated with broken lines to reflect their
internal location. The container body 314 can have, e.g., on its
top wall 317, and a handle or hanger 340.
[0038] The collapsible bladder 320 also has a discharge port 342
formed at an end thereof. In the example, illustrated embodiment,
discharge port 342 is situated at a bottom of collapsible bladder
320, bordering or near central flange 338. As also shown in FIG. 2A
and FIG. 2B, the discharge port 342 is selectively opened and
closed by displaceable electrodynamic valve 344. In the example,
illustrated embodiment, displaceable electrodynamic valve 344 has a
first or fixed end 346 which is secured to a inside surface of
collapsible bladder 320 proximate discharge port 342, and a second
or cantilevered end 348.
[0039] The displaceable electrodynamic valve 344 thus comprises a
deformable or flexible member which selectively opens and closes
discharge port 342. As used herein "displaceable electrodynamic
valves" encompass piezoelectric valves and other types of
displaceable electrodynamic valves such as valves formed using
electroreactive polymer(s) (EAP), electrorestrictive members,
valves comprised of memory alloys or magneto-restrictive elements.
In essence, displaceable electrodynamic valve encompasses any
"smart" material which can use applied electrical energy to yield a
mechanical displacement or deformation of itself, and (preferably)
when subject to a mechanical force produces an electrical
current.
[0040] In one example, non-limiting embodiment, displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344 is a piezoelectric valve such as that
illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 3 illustrates that the piezoelectric
valve which serves in one embodiment as displaceable electrodynamic
valve 344 comprises a multi-layered laminate. The multi-layered
laminate can comprise a piezoelectric wafer 349 which is laminated
by an adhesive between metallic substrate layer 351 and outer metal
layer 353. Electrical leads (e.g., two electrical leads) for
activating the piezoelectric wafer 349 can be connected to
electrodes which may be sputtered or otherwise formed on opposite
sides of the piezoelectric wafer 349, or connected to the metallic
substrate layer 351 and outer metal layer 353.
[0041] Example structures of the multi-layered piezoelectric
laminate and processes for fabricating the same are described in or
discernable from one or more of the following (all of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety): PCT Patent
Application PCT/US01/28947, filed 14 Sep. 2001; U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/380,547, filed Mar. 17, 2003, entitled
"Piezoelectric Actuator and Pump Using Same"; U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/380,589, filed Mar. 17, 2003; and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application 60/670,657, filed Apr. 13, 2005,
entitled PIEZOELECTRIC DIAPHRAGM ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS OF MAKING
SAME.
[0042] The piezoelectric valve, or any other type of valve used as
the displaceable electrodynamic valve 344, can be configured in any
desired shape (e.g., rectangular flap, disk shaped, or otherwise).
For the piezoelectric embodiment, in whatever form it takes,
application of a voltage to the piezoelectric valve causes a
flexure, stress, or compression in piezoelectric wafer 349. The
flexure, stress, or compression in piezoelectric wafer 349 causes
the piezoelectric element to deflect or displace, thereby moving
the valve which it comprises, either to a port closing position or
to a port opening position. In the particular implementation shown
in FIG. 3, application of a non-zero voltage to the displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344 causes flexure of the piezoelectric
element 349 and thus an opening of the port 342 that otherwise
would be covered by the valve. Additional information concerning
active valves and alternate structures are provided in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/024,937, filed Dec. 30, 2004, entitled
"ACTIVE VALVE AND ACTIVE VALVING FOR PUMP", which is incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
[0043] Returning to the generic illustration of FIG. 2A and FIG.
2B, electrical leads attach or connect to the displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344, collectively shown as electrical lead
355, for receipt of driving signals for application to displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344. The electrical lead 355 extends from
displaceable electrodynamic valve 344 through the one or more plys
forming collapsible bladder 320, through flange 338, and through an
electrical port 357 formed in lid 318. The electrical lead 355 may
terminate in a connector or electrical terminal 380 (see FIG. 1A
and FIG. 1B), if desired. As used herein, "electrical terminal" is
understood to encompass other forms or devices for electrical
interconnection, such as (by way of non-limiting example) a
pigtail, pogo pins, spring-biased electrodes.
[0044] As thus far described, fluid container 312 generally
comprises collapsible bladder 320 for accommodating a liquid, a
container body 314 for at least partially enclosing the collapsible
bladder 320; and, displaceable electrodynamic valve 344 for
selectively opening and closing discharge port 342 and thereby
regulating release of the liquid from collapsible bladder 320. In
addition, fluid container 312 comprises a compressor 361 for
applying pressure to collapsible bladder 320 to expel liquid from
collapsible bladder 320 when displaceable electrodynamic valve 344
is open.
[0045] In accordance with differing embodiments, the compressor 361
can take differing forms. In the particular non-limiting, example
embodiment shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, the compressor 361 takes
the form of an extension spring assembly 363 provided in the
interior of container body 314 at its upper end (i.e., at an end
opposite the position of discharge port 342 of collapsible bladder
320). The extension spring assembly 363 includes a platen or
plunger 365 which is suspended from or distally attached to an
extension spring 367. The extension spring 367 can be attached or
otherwise secured to an interior surface of top wall 317, and is
biased to bear against plunger 36. Interior surfaces of sidewalls
324 and 326 can be grooved or otherwise tracked to guide downward
descent of plunger 365 as fluid is discharged from collapsible
bladder 320 through discharge port 342.
[0046] Discharge port 342 of collapsible bladder 320, which is
selectively covered and opened by displaceable electrodynamic valve
344, connects to an outlet tube 384. The outlet tube 384 travels
downward from discharge port 342 and through bottom central flange
338, between front layer 324 and rear layer 326, extends from and
beyond bottom central flange 338, and through a port 385 formed in
lid 318 (see FIG. 1A). If desired, a flow restrictor, valve, or
shut-off can be provided on outlet tube 384 below both bottom
central flange 338 and lid 318.
[0047] Further, if desired, an additional (optional) tube, such as
fill tube 386, can be retained or clamped by bottom central flange
338 and extend through a fill tube port 387 in lid 318. A first end
of fill tube 386 protrudes into fluid reservoir 330; a second end
of fill tube 386 extends beyond bottom central flange 38 and
through fill tube port 387.
[0048] As another and distinct aspect of this container technology,
collapsible bladder 320 with its displaceable electrodynamic valve
344 is connected via electrical lead 355 and terminal 380 to
receive valve driving signals from outside fluid container 312. For
example, as explained with reference to several non-limiting
examples provided below, displaceable electrodynamic valve 344 can
be connected to receive valve driving signals from a host device or
utility device.
[0049] FIG. 4A shows fluid container 312 connected to host device
390(4A). In the FIG. 4A embodiment, host device 390(4A) is of a
type that receives fluid via outlet tube 384 from fluid container
312 and transmits the received fluid through host internal channel
394 for discharge to another device, e.g., a utilization device.
The host device 390(4A) includes a drive circuit 392(4A) which
supplies driving signals to discharge port 342 of fluid container
312 over electrical lead 355. If desired, a flowmeter or other type
of sensor 396 can be positioned in host internal channel 394 and be
electrically connected to drive circuit 392(4A). Such sensor 396
can be utilized by the drive circuit 392(4A) to govern application
of pumping signals to displaceable electrodynamic valve 344.
[0050] FIG. 4B shows fluid container 312 connected to host or
utilization device 390(4B). In the FIG. 4B embodiment, host or
utilization device 390(4B) is more remote from fluid container 312.
To cater for the more remote location, outlet tube 384 of fluid
container 312 is connected by a fluidic coupler 398 to extension
tube 399. A drive device such as drive circuit 392(4B) is situated
distinct from host or utility device 390(4B), e.g., in a separate
electronics cabinet or the like.
[0051] FIG. 4C shows a variation of the fluid container 312 of FIG.
1A situated in a host frame or bed 400 of a host device. The host
frame 400 essentially encompasses fluid container 312 as well as
the utility device 390(4C). The host frame 400 can have an
unillustrated cover, as well as other internal and external
features.
[0052] As understood from U.S. Provisional Patent Application
60/679,227, filed May 10, 2005, entitled "DISPOSABLE FLUID
CONTAINER WITH INTEGRATED PUMP MOTIVE ASSEMBLY", (incorporated
herein by reference), as another and distinct aspect, usable with
any or all of the embodiments described herein and other
embodiments envisioned hereby, the container may include an
identification or memory device for storing container information
in electronic form. Contents of the identification or memory device
(e.g., the container information stored in electronic form) can be
accessed and utilized by a drive device or other external device
via an electrical lead and/or terminal.
[0053] As mentioned above, the compressor can also take various
forms in differing example embodiments. In another example
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, compressor 361(5) comprises a
member, similar to plunger 365 of FIG. 1A, but weighted for
applying pressure to collapsible bladder 320. The weighting of
compressor 361(5) can be distributed throughout the plunger, or
portions thereof can be selectively weighted or embedded with
weights. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the fluid container 312 is
held vertically erect so that the weighted force of compressor
361(5) can act by gravity to apply pressure to collapsible bladder
320 for expelling fluid from discharge port 342 when displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344 is open.
[0054] In another example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A, the
compressor comprises a chemical reactor 361(6) situated in the
interior of container body 314 in a space above plunger 365. The
compressor 361(6) can be connected by an ignition lead 402 or the
like which receives a signal from outside of fluid container 312 as
shown in FIG. 6A. Ignition applied to reactor 361(6) causes a
substance contained therein to gasify and then escape through
appropriate vent holes or the like in reactor 361(6), with the
escaping gas applying pressure to plunger 365. Alternatively, as
shown in FIG. 6B, the exterior of container body 314 may be
provided with a manually or otherwise activated spark or ignition
device 404. The ignition device 404 can be operative, for example,
to mix two or more chemicals and thereby create a gas which applies
pressure to plunger 365.
[0055] In the embodiments of FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B in which
compressor 361(6) releases pressurized gas, the ports provided in
lid 318, and lid 318 itself, should be air tight or otherwise
situated so that gas from compressor 361(6) does not escape
therethrough.
[0056] In the example embodiments already illustrated, the
collapsible bladder 320 is shown as being separable from container
body 314 and selectively insertable into an interior of container
body 314 through an opening which can be closed by lid 318. In
these illustrated and similar other such embodiments, the container
body 314 can advantageously be reused with the valve-containing
collapsible bladder 320. While in the previously illustrated
example embodiments the collapsible bladder 320 has assumed the
shape of a medical dispensing bag such as an intravenous bag,
collapsible bladders of other shapes and configurations can be
inserted into the interior of container body 314. Such other bags
need not have, of course, any or all of the particularized features
of an intravenous bag or any other specialized bag.
[0057] In yet other embodiments, typified by the generic embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 7, both container body 314(7) and collapsible
bladder 320(7) can be integrally formed, with displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344(7) being integral within collapsible
bladder 320(7). In the embodiment of FIG. 7, and comparable
embodiments, the container body 314(7) can be molded or otherwise
formed at least partially around collapsible bladder 320(7). In
such case, the container body 314(7) may be provided with a bottom
wall lid 318(7) rather than a lid. The embodiment of FIG. 7 may
thus be sold and utilized as a single unit, and disposable upon
emptying of collapsible bladder 320(7). The container body 314(7)
of FIG. 7 can utilize any appropriate form of compressor including
but not limited to those above described, and any appropriate form
of displaceable electrodynamic valve.
[0058] When container body 314 is substantially rigid, a bleed
valve or other comparable opening may be provided to permit
collapsing of collapsible bladder 320. when a substantially rigid
container body is used for an embodiment in which a compressor
releases pressurized gas, the pressurized gas can be released into
a separate bag or the like which bears against the plunger. In this
way the pressurized gas does not escape through any bleed valve or
vent hole or the like.
[0059] The preceding bladder-based embodiments have been described
from a perspective that the collapsible bladders 320 are formed by
the bonding of multi-ply or multi-layers, typically after the
displaceable electrodynamic valve 344 has been positioned between
films such as front layer 324 and rear layer 326, and over
discharge port 342, for example. Such bonding can be by application
of electromagnetic energy or heat, being careful not to deform or
damage the pump motive assembly and the other components. Yet
layered bonding is not the exclusive mode of manufacture, since in
other modes a collapsible bladder having but one open end can be
preformed to have the pump motive assembly inserted therein. In
such insertion mode, sealed apertures need to be provided so that
components such as outlet tube 384, fill tube 386, and electrical
lead 355 can extend from inside the collapsible bladder 320 to the
exterior. Appropriate sealing structure and techniques are well
within the ken of the person skilled in the art. In yet other
modes, an injection molding process can also incorporate the pump
motive assembly as an integral part of the disposable fluid
container.
[0060] Further, although for sake of simplicity the collapsible
bladders 320 described herein have been described and illustrated
as comprising only two plys of layers of film, it should be
understood that a greater number of layers or plys can be utilized,
and that the layers or plys may differ in composition and
character.
[0061] In some embodiment collapsible bladder 320 is formed from
flexible material. Any suitable flexible material can be utilized
which collapses as fluid is withdrawn therefrom. The choice of
material may depend upon field of application (with possible
attendant concern for how the material interfaces with the stored
fluid) as well as possible environmental concerns. Example
materials include, but are not limited to, plasticized
polyvinylchloride (PVC), ethylene vinylacetate, polypropylene, and
copolyester ether, for example.
[0062] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate a fluid storage container
312(8) according to another embodiment, and particularly an
embodiment having an essentially rigid container body 314(8) which
accommodates a pressurized fluid in its interior, e.g., in fluid
reservoir 330(8). The container body 314(8) has a fluid discharge
port 385(8) and a displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(8) for
selectively opening and closing port 385(8) and thereby regulating
release of the pressurized fluid from container body 314(8).
Container body 314(8) has a fill port 386(8) through which the
pressurized fluid may be introduced into fluid reservoir 330(8). As
shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B, the fill port 386(8) is closed by a
stopper or a plug. As in other embodiments, container body 314(8)
can take various shapes in any of its dimensions, e.g.,
cylindrical, rectangular, for example. The ports 385(8) and 386(8)
can be located at positions on container body 314(8) other than the
example positions shown.
[0063] The embodiment of FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B also illustrates that
displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(8) may take a form other than
a flapper-type valve shown in the preceding embodiments, e.g., a
solenoid-type valve. Either a flapper-type valve or a solenoid-type
valve can be utilized in any of the embodiments described herein
and/or encompassed hereby.
[0064] The solenoid-type valve configuration of the displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344(8) of FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B comprises an
electrodynamic diaphragm 420(8) having a solenoid or other plunger
422 formed thereon or connected thereto. FIG. 8A shows the
electrodynamic diaphragm 420 being actuated so that solenoid
plunger 422 closes fluid discharge port 385(8). In FIG. 8A, the
electrodynamic diaphragm 420 is not flexed, e.g., is relatively
planar or just slightly curved, so that a distal end of solenoid
plunger 422 closes fluid discharge port 385(8). The mouth of fluid
discharge port 385(8) may be provided with a seal 426 or the like
against which the extended solenoid plunger 422 abuts. The fluid
discharge port 385(8) can be provided with an extension or fitting
428 to which a tube, hose, or other fluid-take off apparatus can be
mounted or connected.
[0065] In the example illustrated embodiment, a portion of
displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(8), e.g., electrodynamic
diaphragm 420, resides in a valve housing 430. The valve housing
430 can be, for example, disc shaped, essentially concentric with
fluid discharge port 385(8), and slightly elevated off the interior
surface of container body 314(8) above fluid discharge port 385(8).
Several pillars or posts 432 may be positioned around valve housing
430 to space valve housing 430 relative to the interior surface of
container body 314(8). The electrodynamic diaphragm 420 is situated
in a recess formed within valve housing 430, with solenoid plunger
422 extending from an aperture formed on an underside of the
disc-shaped housing. Retainer rings or seals 434 may be employed to
retain electrodynamic diaphragm 420 in position in valve housing
430. Electrical leads 355 are connected to displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344(8), e.g., to electrodynamic diaphragm
420.
[0066] The electrodynamic diaphragm 420 utilized in the example
embodiment of FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B can be a piezoelectric diaphragm
and, as such, can have the multi-layered laminate piezoelectric
structure described in conjunction with FIG. 3.
[0067] FIG. 8B shows actuation of displaceable electrodynamic valve
344(8) in a manner to open fluid discharge port 385(8) so that the
pressurized fluid can escape. In the illustrated embodiment,
actuation of displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(8) involves
flexure of electrodynamic diaphragm 420, and thus retraction of
solenoid plunger 422 to allow fluid escape as shown by broken line
arrow 440 in FIG. 8B. Pressurized fluid can travel through the gaps
formed by the various posts 432 before escaping through fluid
discharge port 385(8).
[0068] Other ways of situating the displaceable electrodynamic
valve 344(8) within or without of a rigid container body are also
possible.
[0069] For any of the embodiments described herein, the
displaceable electrodynamic valve utilized can take either the form
of a flapper type valve (as shown, e.g., in the FIG. 1 embodiment)
or a solenoid-type valve (as shown, e.g., in the embodiment of FIG.
8A and FIG. 8B). Moreover, it is also possible to employ the
displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(8) of FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B in
a non-rigid fluid storage container (e.g., a collapsible
bladder-type container).
[0070] FIG. 9 illustrates an example fluid container 312(9)
according to another non-limiting example embodiment. The fluid
container 312(9) comprises both a container body 314(9) and a
container lid 400. The container body 314(9) can be either rigid or
non-rigid, and further take various shapes. Internally the
container body 314(9), or a collapsible bag or the like within
container body 314(9), defines a fluid reservoir 330(9). The
container lid 400 has a discharge port 342(9) which is selectively
opened and closed by a displaceable electrodynamic valve assembly
such as the generic displaceable electrodynamic valve assembly
344(9) depicted generically in FIG. 9.
[0071] It should be understood that the displaceable electrodynamic
valve may be provided within the neck 412(9) of the container in
the manner shown in FIG. 9, or above the neck 412(10) of the
container in a manner comparable to that illustrated in FIG.
10.
[0072] In the example, illustrated embodiment of FIG. 11,
displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(11) has a first or fixed end
346(11) which is secured to an inside surface of container lid 400,
and a second or cantilevered end 348(11) situated for selectively
covering and uncovering discharge port 342(11). The discharge port
342(11), which can be configured, oriented, or formed in a variety
of ways, may have a gasket 343(11) about its mouth on the inside of
the upper surface of lid 400(11) to facilitate sealing of the valve
344(11). The displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(11) can be
secured to the interior (underside) central surface of container
lid 400(11) by any suitable means, such as by an adhesive, epoxy,
electromagnetic welding, or fastener(s).
[0073] In its solid line position shown in FIG. 11, the
displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(11) is actuated to a
deflected position for uncovering the discharge port 342(11). In
its broken line position shown in FIG. 11, the displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344(11) is actuated to a non-deflected
position for covering the discharge port 342(11). The displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344(11) is connectable to an electrical power
source via electrical lead 355(11) for actuating the displaceable
electrodynamic valve 344(11) to its deflected and undeflected
positions. The electrical lead 355(11) may terminate in a connector
or electrical terminal 380(11).
[0074] It so happens that the container body 134(11) of FIG. 11 is
of a type that has a narrowed, threaded neck 421(11) for defining a
mouth which is covered by lid 400(11). In particular, the mouth of
container body 134(11) has lid 400(11) screwed thereon by virtue of
counterthreads 422 or the like formed on the interior periphery of
lid 400(11). However, it should be understood that (for this and
all other embodiments) the configuration of the container body
mouth, or the manner of engagement of the container mouth by lid
400(11) is not limiting, but that other configurations and
engagement techniques can be utilized, such as press-fit of the
lid, sealing or adhering of the lid to the container mouth, or
fastening of the lid to the container mouth, as a few examples.
[0075] As shown by FIG. 12, the fluid container 312(12) may include
a collapsible bladder 320(12) or the like, as well as a compressor
360(12). The collapsible bladder 320(12), which defines the
reservoir 330(12) can be inserted, retained, or sealed within
container body 314(11) in various ways. In the particularly example
of FIG. 12, an upper rim or edge of bladder 320(12) is engaged
between the neck 412(12) of container body 314(12) and lid 400(12).
The compressor 360(12) can be any suitable device for applying
pressure to bladder 320(12) to expel fluid therefrom when valve
344(12) is open. Thus, although illustrated generically in FIG. 12,
compressor 360(12) can be any sutiable device, including but not
limited to the spring-biased, gravity-weighted, or chemically
reacted types of compressors such as those previously described for
other embodiments.
[0076] FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B illustrate an example fluid container
according to another example embodiment, particularly fluid
container 312(13) wherein a solenoid-type valve is attached to,
carried by, or integrally formed to/within lid 400(13). The
solenoid valve 344(13) of FIG. 13A-FIG. 13B, which resembles that
of FIG. 13A, and FIG. 13B in operation, comprises an electrodynamic
diaphragm 420(13) having a solenoid or other plunger 422(13) formed
thereon or connected thereto. FIG. 13A shows the electrodynamic
diaphragm 420(13) being actuated so that solenoid plunger 422
closes fluid discharge port 385(13). In FIG. 13A, the
electrodynamic diaphragm 420(13) is not flexed, e.g., is relatively
planar or just slightly curved, so that a distal end of solenoid
plunger 422 closes fluid discharge port 385(13) of lid 400(13). The
mouth of fluid discharge port 385(13) may be provided with a seal
426(13) or the like against which the extended solenoid plunger 422
abuts. The fluid discharge port 385(13) can be provided with an
extension or fitting 428(13) to which a tube, hose, or other
fluid-take off apparatus can be mounted or connected.
[0077] In the example illustrated embodiment, a portion of
displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(13), e.g., electrodynamic
diaphragm 420(13), resides in a valve housing 430(13). The valve
housing 430(13) can be, for example, disc shaped, essentially
concentric with fluid discharge port 385(13), and slightly elevated
off the interior surface of lid 400(13) above fluid discharge port
385(13). Several pillars or posts 432(13) may be positioned around
valve housing 430(13) to space valve housing 430(13) relative to
the interior surface of lid 400(13). The electrodynamic diaphragm
420(13) is situated in a recess formed within valve housing 430,
with solenoid plunger 422(13) extending from an aperture formed on
an underside of the disc-shaped housing. Retainer rings or seals
434(13) may be employed to retain electrodynamic diaphragm 420(13)
in position in valve housing 430. Electrical leads 355(13) are
connected to displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(13), e.g., to
electrodynamic diaphragm 420(13).
[0078] The electrodynamic diaphragm 420(13) utilized in the example
embodiment of FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B can be a piezoelectric
diaphragm and, as such, can have the multi-layered laminate
piezoelectric structure described in conjunction with FIG. 3.
[0079] FIG. 13B shows actuation of displaceable electrodynamic
valve 344(13) in a manner to open fluid discharge port 385(13) so
that the pressurized fluid can escape. In the illustrated
embodiment, actuation of displaceable electrodynamic valve 344(13)
involves flexure of electrodynamic diaphragm 420(13), and thus
retraction of solenoid plunger 422(13) to allow fluid escape as
shown by broken line arrow 440(13) in FIG. 13B. Pressurized fluid
can travel through the gaps formed by the various posts 432(13)
before escaping through fluid discharge port 385(13).
[0080] The disposable fluid containers described in the illustrated
embodiments and other embodiments encompassed hereby can be
utilized in many applications and fields of endeavor. Non-limiting
and non-exhaustive examples include disposable medical applications
(intravenous bag, blood bag, TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) bags,
insulin containers, medicament bag, sterile dosing applications,
infusion devices), disposable consumer applications; disposable
food service items (e.g., beverage) for, e.g., guaranteed
compatibility or inventory control; industrial or agricultural
(e.g. pesticide, insecticide, or fertilizer) delivery or dispensing
of fluids.
[0081] Although the foregoing example embodiments primarily depict
the displaceable electrodynamic valves as being piezoelectric
valves, other types of displaceable electrodynamic valves can be
utilized in lieu thereof. These other types of displaceable
electrodynamic valves can include valves formed using
electroreactive polymer(s) (EAP), electrorestrictive members,
valves comprised of memory alloys or magneto-restrictive
elements.
[0082] Although various embodiments have been shown and described
in detail, the claims are not limited to any particular embodiment
or example. None of the above description should be read as
implying that any particular element, step, range, or function is
essential such that it must be included in the claims scope. The
scope of patented subject matter is defined only by the claims. The
extent of legal protection is defined by the words recited in the
allowed claims and their equivalents. It is to be understood that
the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiment, but
on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and
equivalent arrangements.
* * * * *