U.S. patent application number 12/222095 was filed with the patent office on 2008-11-27 for applicator for coloring antiseptic.
This patent application is currently assigned to Allegiance Corporation. Invention is credited to Jesus Flores, Manuel Guzman, Scott A. Tufts.
Application Number | 20080292383 12/222095 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32176387 |
Filed Date | 2008-11-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080292383 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tufts; Scott A. ; et
al. |
November 27, 2008 |
Applicator for coloring antiseptic
Abstract
The present invention relates generally to applicators and a
method of coloring antiseptics. More specifically, in one
embodiment, the present invention relates to an applicator having a
flexible hollow body containing antiseptic to be applied. The
applicator also has a porous element containing colorant positioned
such that the antiseptic flows through the porous element
containing colorant. Colorant is transferred to the antiseptic as
it flows through the porous element. The resulting colored solution
may be applied to the desired surface.
Inventors: |
Tufts; Scott A.; (El Paso,
TX) ; Flores; Jesus; (El Paso, TX) ; Guzman;
Manuel; (El Paso, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Arent Fox LLP and Cardinal Health, Inc.
1050 Connecticut Ave., N.W., Suite 400
Washington
DC
20036
US
|
Assignee: |
Allegiance Corporation
McGaw Park
IL
|
Family ID: |
32176387 |
Appl. No.: |
12/222095 |
Filed: |
August 1, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11739918 |
Apr 25, 2007 |
7422388 |
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12222095 |
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11254318 |
Oct 20, 2005 |
7241065 |
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11739918 |
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10796759 |
Mar 9, 2004 |
6991393 |
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11254318 |
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10388826 |
Mar 14, 2003 |
6729786 |
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10796759 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
401/133 ;
401/196; 401/201 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 34/042 20130101;
B05C 17/002 20130101; A45D 34/04 20130101; A45D 40/24 20130101;
B43M 11/06 20130101; A61M 35/006 20130101; A45D 2200/058 20130101;
A45D 2200/1018 20130101; B43M 11/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
401/133 ;
401/196; 401/201 |
International
Class: |
B05C 1/06 20060101
B05C001/06; B05C 9/10 20060101 B05C009/10 |
Claims
1. An applicator for applying an antiseptic solution to a surface,
the applicator comprising: a) a body having an internal chamber
adapted to contain the antiseptic solution; and b) a colorant
transferring element that transfers a colorant to the antiseptic
solution when the antiseptic solution contacts the colorant
transferring element.
2. An applicator according to claim 1, wherein the colorant
transferring element comprises a material selected from the group
consisting of sponge, fabric, foam, and felt.
3. An applicator according to claim 1, wherein the colorant
transferring element is imbibed with the colorant.
4. An applicator according to claim 1, wherein the colorant is
contained on a surface of the colorant transferring element.
5. An applicator according to claim 1, wherein the colorant
transferring element is a porous element adapted such that at least
some of the colorant transfers to the antiseptic solution when the
antiseptic solution flows through the porous element.
6. An applicator according to claim 5, wherein the porous element
comprises a porous pad, a porous plug, and combinations
thereof.
7. An applicator according to claim 5, wherein the porous element
further comprises a laminate material.
8. An applicator according to claim 7, wherein the laminate
material is positioned between the body and the porous pad.
9. An applicator for applying an antiseptic solution to a surface,
the applicator comprising: a) the antiseptic solution; and b) a
colorant transferring element comprising a colorant; wherein at
least some of the colorant is transferred to the antiseptic
solution upon contact by the antiseptic solution with the colorant
transferring element.
10. An applicator according to claim 9, wherein the antiseptic
solution is contained separately from the colorant until
immediately prior to applying the antiseptic solution to the
surface.
11. An applicator according to claim 10, wherein the antiseptic
solution is contained in an internal chamber of a body.
12. An applicator according to claim 11, wherein the antiseptic
solution is contained within at least one ampoule which is within
the internal chamber.
13. An applicator according to claim 12, wherein the ampoule is
arranged in the internal chamber such that, upon fracturing the
ampoule, the antiseptic solution contacts the colorant transferring
element.
14. An applicator according to claim 9, wherein the antiseptic
solution has a shelf life which is reduced when the antiseptic
solution is combined with the colorant.
15. An applicator according to claim 9, wherein the antiseptic
solution has a stability which is reduced when the antiseptic
solution is combined with the colorant.
16. An applicator according to claim 9, wherein the antiseptic
solution is chlorhexidine gluconate.
17. An applicator according to claim 9, wherein the colorant is
selected from the group consisting of tint, pigment, dye, and
paint.
18. An applicator according to claim 17, wherein the colorant is an
FD&C dye.
19. An applicator according to claim 9, wherein the colorant
transferring element comprises a material selected from the group
consisting of sponge, fabric, foam, and felt.
20. An applicator according to claim 9, wherein the colorant
transferring element is a porous element adapted such that at least
some of the colorant transfers to the antiseptic solution when the
antiseptic solution flows through the porous element.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The application is a continuation application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/254,318 filed on Oct. 20, 2005, which is a
continuation application of U.S. Pat. No. 6,991,393 filed on Mar.
9, 2004, which is a continuation application of U.S. Pat. No.
6,729,786 filed on Mar. 14, 2003.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Applicators for applying liquids such as medicaments or
cleansing agents are known in the prior art. Conventional
applicators typically provide a generally cylindrical body
construction and include a glass ampoule retained within the body;
a sponge or tip secured to the body, at least one surface of which
is exposed to the ampoule; and a means for fracturing the ampoule
such that when the ampoule is fractured, the liquid stored therein
is dispensed to the sponge for application.
[0004] When a non-colored or clear liquid is applied using these
applicators, it is difficult for the user to see where the liquid
has been applied. Thus, in many situations, it is necessary to
utilize colored liquid so that the user knows where the liquid has
been applied. For example, antiseptics or medicaments used as a
pre-operative liquid are applied to the body just prior to surgery.
It is essential that the user be able see where the pre-operative
liquid has been applied. If the pre-operative liquid is colored, it
is easier for the user to discern where the liquid has been applied
to the body.
[0005] However, it is difficult to apply a colored liquid using
these applicators. Numerous problems are encountered when color,
such as a tint or dye, is added to a liquid using an applicator of
this type. For example, when a tint or dye is added to a liquid,
the shelf life of the liquid may be shortened and/or the colored
solution may become unstable. A further problem is colorant may
settle out of the liquid. If colorant settles out of the liquid
there may be non-uniform distribution of the colored liquid when
applied.
SUMMARY
[0006] The present invention provides a liquid applicator for
applying a desired liquid to a surface, the applicator comprises:
at least one ampoule formed of a frangible material and adapted to
contain liquid to be applied; at least one hollow body defining an
internal chamber adapted to receive at least one ampoule; and at
least one porous element that contains colorant, wherein the porous
element may be a porous plug located between the ampoule and the
open end of the body and/or the porous element may be a porous pad
closing off an open end of the body, and wherein the porous element
is positioned such that liquid flows through the porous element
when at least one ampoule is fractured and colorant is transferred
to the liquid to be applied.
[0007] The present invention further provides a method of making a
porous plug containing colorant. The method comprises mixing water,
dye and isopropyl alcohol, saturating the porous plug with the
mixture and allowing the porous plug to dry.
[0008] Accordingly, the present invention further provides a liquid
applicator for applying a desired liquid to a surface, the
applicator comprises: at least one ampoule formed of a frangible
material and adapted to contain liquid to be applied; at least one
hollow body defining an internal chamber adapted to receive at
least one ampoule; a porous plug containing colorant, such that
liquid flows through the porous plug when the ampoule is fractured
and colorant is transferred to the liquid to be applied; and a
porous pad secured to said body and closing off an open end
thereof, such that the colored liquid flows through said porous
pad.
[0009] By providing a liquid applicator in accordance with the
present invention, numerous advantages are realized. For example, a
user may use the application to apply a stable colored liquid.
Further, colorant will not settle out of the liquid and cause
non-uniform distribution of colorant in the liquid. This is
important when it is employed to apply pre-operative liquid to
indicate to the user where the liquid has been applied.
[0010] Additional aspects of the invention, together with the
advantages and novel features appurtenant thereto, will be set
forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will
become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the
following, or may be learned from the practice of the invention.
The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and
attained by means, instrumentalities and combinations particularly
pointed out in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] In the accompanying drawings which form a part of the
specification and are to be read in conjunction therewith, and in
which like reference numerals are employed to indicate like parts
in the various views:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid applicator
constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator
constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention with
a portion of the applicator body removed to expose the ampoule and
the porous plug;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator
constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
exposing the ampoule being fractured and the liquid flowing through
the porous plug;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view taken generally
across line 44 of FIG. 3;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a liquid applicator
constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a side plan view of a liquid applicator
constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
exposing the ampoules being fractured and the liquid flowing
through the porous plug; and
[0018] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the vent located at the
distance of an applicator constructed in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention enclosed by line 7 in FIG. 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] A liquid applicator for applying a desired colored liquid to
a surface is provided. The applicator comprises a hollow body
defining an internal chamber to receive at least one ampoule formed
of a frangible material and containing the liquid to be applied.
The liquid applicator further comprises at least one porous element
containing colorant positioned such that upon fracturing at least
one ampoule, the liquid flows though the porous element(s)
containing colorant. Colorant is transferred to the liquid as it
flows through the porous element containing colorant. The resulting
colored solution may be applied to the desired surface.
[0020] The ampoule(s) may be used for containing various liquids
such as medicaments, cleansing agents, cosmetics, polishes or the
like. Further, it will be appreciated that the ampoule(s) may be
numerous different shapes and sizes depending on the amount of
liquid needed to be applied. For example, the applicator of the
present invention may include long cylindrical ampoule(s) or may
contain vial-type ampoule(s). Furthermore, more than one ampoule
may be received by the body. Preferably, the ampoule(s) are formed
of glass, although other materials are entirely within the scope of
the present invention. The wall of the ampoules is of a thickness
sufficient to contain the desired liquid during transport and
storage, yet allow the ampoule to be fractured upon the application
of localized pressure.
[0021] The body of the present embodiment of the invention may take
many forms. The body has an internal chamber that is adapted to
receive at least one ampoule. The body may also be shaped to hold
multiple ampoules. In one form, the body is shaped to generally
conform to the ampoule(s) contained within the body.
[0022] The porous element of the present invention also may take
many forms. The porous element may be a porous plug and/or a porous
pad. In other words, colorant may be contained in or on a porous
plug located within the body of the applicator between the ampoule
and an open end of the body. Colorant may be contained in or on a
porous pad located at an open end of the body. The porous element
is positioned such that when the ampoule(s) is fractured, the
liquid flows through the porous element and colorant is transferred
to the liquid to be applied. The porous element may be made of any
porous material that allows liquid to flow through the material.
The porous element may be, but is not limited to, a fabric, foam or
a felt material. Colorant may be saturated throughout the porous
element or colorant may be placed only on part of the element
depending on the amount of colorant needed to achieve the desired
color for the liquid.
[0023] Colorant may be a tint, pigment, dye, paint or any other
substance that imparts or changes a hue of a liquid. For example, F
D & C colorants may be used with the present embodiment of the
invention. Furthermore, any combination of colorants may be
used.
[0024] The ampoule(s) contained within the body of the applicator
may be broken by any method known to those skilled in the art.
These include, but are not limited to, squeezing the walls of the
body inwardly to break the ampoule(s), using a lever or other
mechanism to break the ampoule(s), or utilizing projecting wings
with tappets as described below.
EXAMPLE 1
[0025] Referring to the drawings in general and initially to FIG. 1
and FIG. 2 in particular, where like reference numerals identify
like elements in the various views, a liquid applicator manifesting
aspects of the invention is illustrated and designated generally by
the numeral 10. The liquid applicator 10 generally includes a body
12, at least one closed ampoule for containing liquid 14 received
in the body 12, and porous pad 16 secured to body 12. In the
illustrated embodiment, the liquid applicator 10 also includes a
porous plug 15 that contains colorant.
[0026] In the illustrated embodiment, the ampoule 14 contains an
antiseptic solution to be applied to a patient's skin prior to
surgery. The antiseptic used in the illustrated embodiment is
chlorohexadine gluconate. However, any liquid may be used with the
liquid applicator of the embodiment of the present invention. The
ampoule 14 is illustrated as an elongated cylinder, which defines a
central longitudinal axis. However, it will be appreciated that the
principles of the present invention also may be applied to
spherical or elongated polygonal ampoules. Preferably, the ampoule
14 is formed of glass, although other materials are entirely within
the scope of the present invention.
[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, body 12, is of a generally
hollow cylindrical shape and includes axially opposed first and
second ends 18, 20 and presents a central longitudinal axis "x".
The proximal first end 18 is open and the distal second end 20 is
closed. The illustrated body 12 is formed of high-density
polyethylene, although any material exhibiting similar flexibility
and integrity may be used in the illustrated embodiment, the second
end 20 is closed during the molding process obviating the need for
a cap or the like. However, the second end may be open or may be
closed using a cap. The illustrated body 12 is elongated and
defines a central longitudinal axis, which is collinear with the
central longitudinal axis of the ampoule 14. Preferably, the
thickness of the wall is between 0.012-0.150 inches. More
preferably, the thickness of the wall is approximately 0.050
inches.
[0028] Body 12 includes an interior wall 21, which defines an
internal chamber 22 within body 12. Interior wall 21 is shaped to
conform generally with the shape of the ampoule 14, which is
received within the internal chamber 22. With reference to FIG. 4,
the circumference of the interior wall 21 is slightly larger than
the outer surface of the ampoule body such that a plurality of
inwardly projecting ridges 40 positioned on the interior wall 21 of
the hollow body 12 supports the ampoule 14 therein. Preferably, the
interior wall 21 includes four inwardly projecting ridges 40, which
are offset from one another by approximately 90 degrees around the
interior wall 21 of body 12. The ridges 40 engage the periphery of
the ampoule to maintain the ampoule 14 within the internal chamber
22 and prevent untoward movement of shards of the ampoule through
the porous pad 16 when fracturing of the ampoule is affected, as
more fully described below.
[0029] Referring again to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, body 12 further
presents a flange 24 protruding from the open end 18 along the
periphery thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 24 is
continuously molded to the body 12 and is disposed at an angle of
45 degrees, with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the
body. The flange 24 is adapted to support the porous pad 16, as
more fully described below.
[0030] Body 12 also includes a pair of elongated gripping members
26, 28 which are diametrically opposed and project from the body.
Each gripping member 26, 28 include an attachment portion 30
outwardly extending from the body 12 and a handling portion 32
extending from the distal end of the attachment portion 30.
[0031] Body 12 also includes structure for fracturing the ampoule
14. In the illustrated embodiment, the structure includes breaking
tabs or tappets 36, 38 interposed between the gripping members 26,
28 and the body 12. Upon depression of the gripping members 26, 28,
the breaking tabs 36, 38 flex the body 12 inwardly, thereby
localizing the forces effected by squeezing the members 26, 28
toward one another and enhancing fracturing of the ampoule 14 as
more fully described below. It will be appreciated, however, that
the principles of the present invention are equally applicable to
various other structures and methods for fracturing the ampoule
14.
[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid applicator 10 of
the present invention is constructed to house a 6.0 ml or 10.5 ml
ampoule. It will be understood and appreciated, however, that
various numbers of ampoules and ampoules of various sizes may be
utilized and such is contemplated to be within the scope of the
present invention.
[0033] In the illustrated example, a porous pad 16 such as a sponge
or the like closes off the open end 18 of the body 12. The porous
pad 16 is received on flange 24 and encloses the ampoule 14 within
the internal chamber 22. The porous pad 16 is disposed at angle 45
degrees with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the body
12. Thus, the liquid may be released to flow by gravity upon
fracture of the ampoule 14 to the porous pad 16 affixed to the open
end 18 of body 12.
[0034] The porous pad 16 is formed of felt or an open-celled foam
material that is laminated on one side with a laminate material.
The laminated felt material used in the illustrated embodiment was
Novonnete.RTM. SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminated to
0.360''.+-.0.032'' SIF-#3-1000Z felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)
Reticulated Polyester Urethane. The laminate material may also be a
woven or non-woven polyester material such as polyethylene. The
laminate material of the porous pad 16 is positioned between the
open-celled foam material and the flange 24 of the body 12. By
employing a porous pad having a laminate as described herein,
numerous advantages are realized. For example, the material
presents a physical barrier that resists puncture by glass
fragments of the fractured ampoule. Further, the laminate material
also increases the bond strength of pad 16 to body 12.
[0035] The illustrated porous pad 16 is cut from a sheet of sponge
material having the desired porosity for the liquid to be
dispensed, whereby liquid is prevented from flowing immediately
through the pad 16 when the ampoule 14 is fractured. In other
words, once an ampoule 14 is fractured, the released liquid
saturates porous plug 15 and then saturates pad 16 and flows from
pad 16 only as the surface absorbs the liquid from the saturated
pad 16. Consequently, the body 12 essentially functions as a
reservoir of the desired liquid. The porous pad 16 is preferably
generally circular in shape although it will be appreciated that
the pad may be of any desired size and shape, which is capable of
being supported on the flange 24.
[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, porous plug 15 is positioned
between porous pad 16 and ampoule 14. Porous plug 15 may be any
porous material. In the illustrated embodiment, the porous plug is
an open-celled foam material or felt, preferably, Novonnete.RTM.
SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) was laminated to
0.360''.+-.0.032'' SIF-#3-1000Z felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented)
Reticulated Polyester Urethane. The diameter of porous plug 15 is
approximately 0.709 inches. Porous plug 15 helps control the rate
liquid flows from the body and prevents shards of glass from
pushing through porous pad 16 during use of the applicator. Porous
plug 15 is cut from a sheet of foam or felt material having the
desired porosity for the liquid to be dispensed. In the illustrated
embodiment, colorant is contained with the porous plug. Further, in
the illustrated embodiment the colorant contained in the porous
plug was CAS No. 235345-9 FD&C Green #3 dye. The porous plug
containing colorant utilized in the illustrated embodiment was
prepared using the method described in Example 3
[0037] During formation of the applicator, the ampoule 14 is
inserted into the internal chamber 22 of the body 12. Thereafter,
the porous plug 15 is inserted into the internal chamber of the
body 12 between ampoule 14 and flange 24. Then the porous pad 16 is
secured to the body 12 of the applicator by welding the laminate
material to the flange 24 using an ultrasonic welding operation.
The polyester material of the laminate provides suitable welding
material that melts together with the material of the flange 24 to
secure the porous pad 16 in place over the internal chamber 22 and
enclose the ampoule 14. Securing the porous pad 16 on the flange 24
in this manner facilitates preventing leakage between the flange 24
and the pad 16. It will be appreciated that other suitable securing
expedients could be employed in place of the ultrasonic welding
operation. For example, the porous pad 16 could be secured in place
by an adhesive or stitching, or by heat sealing or chemically
bonding the pad in place. Such alternative securing expedients are
contemplated to be within the scope of the present invention.
[0038] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, in use, the applicator
10 presents a hand-held liquid applicator that is squeezed to
release the desired liquid contained therein for application to a
surface. The applicator 10 is designed to be grasped by the user so
that the gripping members 26, 28 are held between the thumb or palm
and fingers of one hand of the user, thus allowing for
single-handed operation. The ampoule 14 is fractured by the user
squeezing the gripping members 26, 28 toward one another. The
movement of the members 26, 28 is transferred by the tabs 36, 38 to
the body 12 to deform the body 12 inwardly and exert discrete
localized fracturing forces against the ampoule 14. The gripping
members provide a lever action that gains mechanical advantage as
the members are squeezed toward one another. Accordingly, if the
user has limited gripping strength, or if the wall of the ampoule
is exceptionally thick, the members ensure fracturing of the
ampoule.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 3, once the members 26, 28 have been
sufficiently squeezed together, the resulting forces fracture the
ampoule 14 releasing the liquid contained therein. Once ampoule 14
is fractured, body 12 essentially functions as a reservoir of the
desired liquid. The released liquid under the force of gravity
flows down body 12, through porous plug 15 saturating the porous
plug 15 which contains colorant. Consequently, the liquid flows
through the porous plug 15 and colorant is transferred to the
liquid. The colored liquid 19 then flows through open end 18 and
through porous pad 16 which may also contain colorant. As the
liquid flows through the porous pad 16, colorant is transferred
from the pad to the liquid. Thereafter, application of the colored
liquid 19 is accomplished by bringing porous pad 16 into contact
with the desired surface. The user may then use a painting or
scrubbing motion to apply the liquid to the surface. The entire
process of fracturing ampoule 14 and applying the liquid to a
desired surface is achieved with the use of only one hand of the
user.
EXAMPLE 2
[0040] With reference FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, in particular, where like
reference; numerals identify like elements in the various views, an
embodiment of the liquid applicator is illustrated and designated
generally by the numeral 41. Liquid applicator 41 generally
includes a body 42, and a porous pad 44 secured to flange 46 of
body 42 and a lever 48.
[0041] Two ampoules 50 and 52 are received in body 42. The liquid
applicator 41 is constructed to house two 13 ml ampoules. The
thickness of the walls of the 13 ml ampoules is about 0.3 mm.
However, ampoules of various sizes may be used. Ampoules 50 and 52
may be used for containing various liquids such as medicaments,
cleansing agents, cosmetics, polishes or the like. In the
illustrated embodiment, ampoules 50 and 52 contain antiseptic
solution to be applied to a patient's skin prior to surgery.
Ampoules 50 and 52 are illustrated as elongated cylinders with a
central longitudinal axis. However, it will be appreciated that the
principles of the present invention also may be applied to
spherical or elongated polygonal ampoules. Furthermore, it will be
appreciated that the principles of the present invention may be
applied to more than two ampoules.
[0042] Preferably, ampoules 50 and 52 are formed of glass, although
other materials are entirely within the scope of the present
invention. In the illustrated embodiment, ampoules 50 and 52 are
placed side by side within body 42. The wall of glass ampoules 50
and 52 is of a thickness sufficient to contain the desired liquid
during transport and storage, yet allow ampoules 50 and 52 to be
fractured upon the application of localized pressure.
[0043] Body 42 is generally hollow and oval or elliptical in shape
and includes axially opposed first and second ends 54, 56. The
proximal first end 54 is open and distal second end 56 is closed
with cap 58. Illustrated body 42 is formed of high-density
polyethylene, although any material exhibiting similar flexibility
and integrity may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, body 42
and cap 58 were molded with 100% virgin material DOW, HDPE, Resin
#12454N, as defined in FDA Master File Number 4251. In the
preferred embodiment, second end 56 is closed with cap 58, however
second end may also be closed during the molding process obviating
the need for a cap or the like.
[0044] Body 42 includes an interior wall 60 which defines an
internal chamber 62 within body 42. Interior wall 60 is shaped to
conform generally with the shape of ampoules 50 and 52 which are
received within internal chamber 62. The circumference of interior
wall 60 is slightly larger than the outer surface of the two
ampoule bodies. Dividing wall 64 of hollow body 42 separates
ampoules 50 and 52 and maintains ampoules 50 and 52 within internal
chamber 62. Illustrated body 42 is elongated and defines a central
longitudinal axis "x".
[0045] The thickness of the wall of the applicator may be between
0.040 to 0.080 inches and preferably is approximately 0.060 inches,
except thin wall 66. The thickness of the wall of body 42 is
reduced around crush area 64. Thin wall 66 may be between 0.020 to
0.040 inches and preferably is 0.030 inches. However, it will be
appreciated that different wall sizes may be used within the scope
of the embodiment of the invention. Thin wall 66 makes it easier
for crush portion 68 of lever 48 to fracture multiple ampoules when
lever 48 is depressed. This will be discussed in more detail
later.
[0046] Body 42 further presents a flange 46 protruding from
proximal end 54 along the periphery thereof. In the preferred
embodiment, flange 46 is continuously molded to body 42 and is
disposed at an angle. Preferably, flange 46 is disposed an angle of
45.degree., with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the
body. It will be appreciated that flange 46 may be disposed at a
variety of angles with respect to the central longitudinal axis of
body 42. Flange 46 is adapted to support porous pad 44, as more
fully described below.
[0047] Porous pad 44, such as a sponge or the like, closes off open
end 54 of body 42. Porous pad 44 is received on flange 46 and
encloses ampoules 50 and 52 within internal chamber 62. Porous pad
44 may be formed of felt or an open-celled foam material. In the
illustrated embodiment, porous pad 44 was formed of SIF-#3-1000Z
felt, (Natural Color Non-Pigmented) Reticulated Polyester
Urethane.
[0048] Porous pad 44 is cut from a sheet of foam or felt material
having the desired porosity for the liquid to be dispensed. Porous
pad 44 is preferably generally square in shape although it will be
appreciated that the pad may be of any desired size and shape which
is capable of being supported on flange 46.
[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, a woven or non-woven laminate
material is laminated to porous pad 44. The material laminate
material may be a woven or non-woven polyester material. In the
illustrated embodiment, Novonnete.RTM. SP-64 (3905) Polyester
(Non-Woven) was laminated to 0.360''.+-.0.032'' SIF-#3-1000Z felt,
(Natural Color Non-Pigmented) Reticulated Polyester Urethane. The
laminate material is positioned between porous pad 44 and flange 46
of body 42. As such, the laminate material functions to prevent
shards of glass from the fractured ampoules from pushing through
the porous pad during use of the applicator. The laminate material
also provides a suitable welding material for securing the porous
pad in place on the body when an ultrasonic welding operation is
used to manufacture the applicator.
[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, porous plug 70 is positioned
between porous pad 44 and ampoules 50 and 52. Porous plug 70 may be
an open-celled foam material or felt. In the illustrated
embodiment, Novonette.RTM. SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven) was
laminated to 0.360''.+-.0.032'' SIF-#3-1000Z Felt, (Natural Color
Non-Pigmented) Reticulated Polyester Urethane. Porous plug 70 helps
control the rate liquid flows from the body and prevents shards of
glass from pushing through porous pad 44 during use of the
applicator. Porous plug 70 is cut from a sheet of foam or felt
material having the desired porosity for the liquid to be
dispensed. In the illustrated embodiment, colorant is contained
with the porous plug. Further, in the illustrated embodiment the
colorant contained in the porous plug was CAS No. 235345-9 FD&C
Green #3 dye. The porous plug containing colorant utilized in the
illustrated embodiment was prepared using the method described in
Example 3.
[0051] Body 42 also includes a lever 48 projecting from the top
portion of body 42. However, it will be appreciated that lever 48
may project from any portion of body 42. Lever 48 is any mechanism
for fracturing more than one ampoule at substantially the same
time. Lever 48, includes hinge portion 72, crush portion 68 and
handling portion 74 extending from the distal end of lever 48.
Preferably, lever 48 extends outwardly from body 42 at an angle of
between 20.degree. and 40.degree. with respect to the central
longitudinal axis of body 42. More preferably, lever 48 extends
from body 42 at approximately 27.degree. with respect to the
central longitudinal axis "x" of body 42. It will be appreciated
that lever 48 may be disposed at a variety of angles with respect
to the central longitudinal axis of body 42.
[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, lever 48 is continuously
molded with body 42. It will be understood and appreciated,
however, that separately formed levers are contemplated to be
within the scope of the present invention.
[0053] Handling portion 74 of lever 48 of the illustrated
embodiment is spaced between 0.5 and 1.5 inches from body 42.
Preferably, handling portion 74 is spaced approximately 1.0 inch
from body 42. Handling portion 74 of lever 48 includes a textured
outer surface to facilitate handling of applicator 41 and to
inhibit slippage from the user's hand during application.
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, lever 48 includes crush
portion 68 and hinge portion 72 attached to body 42. It will be
appreciated, however, that the principles of the present invention
are equally applicable to various other structures for fracturing
ampoules 50 and 52, such as multiple crush portions, multiple hinge
portions and a crush portion that may be attached or detached to
body 42. Handling portion 74 of lever 48 presents a gripping area
which is significantly larger than the area of crush portion 68.
Upon depression of lever 48, crush portion 68, flexes body 42
inwardly at thin wall 66, thereby localizing the forces effected by
depressing lever 48 toward body 42 and enhancing fracturing of
ampoules 50 and 52 as more fully described below.
[0055] Several features of lever 48 of the illustrated embodiment
enhance the ability to fracture at least two ampoules at the same
time including: the thickness of lever 48, the curvature of lever
48, support rib 76, the thickness of hinge portion 72 and the width
of crush portion 68. The thickness of lever 48 is approximately
0.080 to 0.15 inches and preferably is 0.11 inches. In the
illustrated embodiment, lever 48 is approximately 2.35 inches long.
Hinge portion 72 of the illustrated embodiment is thinner than the
rest of lever 48. Hinge portion 72 is approximately 0.040 to 0.080
inches thick, preferably 0.060 inches thick. The curvature of lever
48 and support rib 37 increase the leverage of handling portion 74
of lever 48 making it easier for the user to fracture two ampoules
substantially simultaneously.
[0056] The ratio of the width of crush portion 68 to the width of
ampoules 50 and 52 side by side is important with respect to
reliable breakage of ampoules 50 and 52. In the illustrated
embodiment, the width of the crush portion 68 had to be at least
approximately 1/5 the width of the two ampoules side by side to
produce breakage of the ampoules almost simultaneously. The width
of the two ampoules side by side was approximately 1.03 inches. The
minimum width of the crush portion of the lever that produces
breakage of the ampoules almost simultaneously was 0.200 inches.
Thus, a length aspect ratio for reliable ampoule break was
1.03/0.200 or 5.15. All of these features, either singularly or in
combination, along with thin wall 66, help enhance the ability of
the lever to break multiple ampoules at the same time.
[0057] With reference to FIG. 7, vent 80 of the illustrated
embodiment is shown. Vent 80 is located at distal end 56 of body
42. Vent 80 is a small cut out portion of body 42 allowing air to
flow from internal chamber 62 of body 42 to the outside of body 42
and vice versa. This is accomplished by a small cut out portion of
body 42 starting on the outside of body 42, going over the lip of
body 42 and continuing inside body 42. Internal cut out portion 82,
external cut out portion 84 and cut out lip 86 allow air to flow in
and out of internal chamber 62 of body 42 underneath cap 58. Cap 58
entirely seals off internal chamber 62 except for cut out vent
80.
[0058] Restraint element 78 is positioned between ampoules 50 and
52 and porous plug 70. Restraint element 78 allows liquid to flow
from body 42, through porous plug 70 and into porous pad 44.
Restraint element 78 restrains ampoules 50 and 52 in a position to
facilitate proper breaking. Restraint element 78 holds the ends of
ampoules 50 and 52 near crush point 64 so that the ends of ampoules
are properly broken and do not restrict the flow of liquid.
Restraint element 78 may take a variety of shapes depending on the
type of liquid to be applied. In the illustrated embodiment,
restraint element 78 has two fan-shaped openings.
[0059] In use, applicator 41 presents a hand-held liquid applicator
wherein lever 48 is depressed to release the desired liquid
contained within ampoules 50 and 52 therein for application to a
surface. Applicator 41 of the illustrated embodiment is grasped by
one hand of a user. The bottom of body 42 is grasped with the palm
and fingers of user, the user's fingers wrap around the bottom and
side of the body 42 so the tips of the user's fingers rest on the
top of body 42. The thumb of the same hand is positioned on
handling portion 74 of lever 48 allowing for single-handed
operation. The user depresses lever 48 toward body 42 to fracture
ampoules 50 and 52. The movement of lever 48 is transferred by
crush portion 68 to thin wall 66 of body 42 to deform body 42
inwardly and exert discrete localized fracturing forces against
ampoules 50 and 52. Lever 48 provides an action that gains
mechanical advantage as lever 48 is depressed toward body 42.
Accordingly, if the user has limited gripping strength, or if the
wall of the ampoule is exceptionally thick, the lever ensures
fracturing of the ampoules.
[0060] Once lever 48 has been sufficiently depressed, the resulting
forces fracture ampoules 50 and 52 almost simultaneously, thus
releasing the liquid contained in each ampoule. The released liquid
under the force of gravity flows down body 42, saturating porous
plug 70 which contains colorant. Consequently the liquid flows
through porous plug 70 and colorant is transferred to the liquid.
The colored liquid 90 flows through open end 54 and through porous
pad 44. Thereafter, application of the colored liquid 90 is
accomplished by bringing porous pad 44 into contact with the
desired surface. Thereafter, application of the liquid is
accomplished by bringing porous pad 44 into contact with the
desired surface. The user may then use a painting or scrubbing
motion to apply the liquid to the surface. The entire process of
fracturing ampoules 50 and 52 and applying the liquid to a desired
surface is achieved with the use of only one hand of the user
EXAMPLE 3
[0061] In this example, colorant is contained in the porous plug of
the applicator. The illustrated example was done for both 10.5 mL
porous plugs and 26 mL porous plugs. The material used for the
porous plug was Novonette SP-64 (3905) Polyester (Non-Woven)
Laminated to 0.320 inchest+/-0.030 inches open cell, (Natural Color
Non-Pigmented) Polyester Urethane Reticulated Foam 80-100 PPI. The
diameter of the 10.5 mL porous plug was 0.709 and its thickness was
0.023 inches. The size of the 26 mL porous plug was 1.06
inches.times.0.57 inches and it had a thickness of 0.023 inches.
The equipment used included a 5 gallon nalgene carboy container
with pouring spout, air motor, 3'' stainless steel shaft, 3''
folding blade mixing propeller, and a Metek digital
tachometer--Model 1726 to measure shaft RPM.
[0062] Colorant is added to the porous plugs using the following
method. First, the tint to alcohol ratio (grams of tint/grams of
70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA)) was determined to ensure a consistent
color shade when applied to the treatment area. The following
calculations were use to determine the tint to alcohol ratio:
5 gallons of 70 % I P A = 5 Gal . 1 .times. 3785.412 mL 1 Gal .
.times. 0.879 grams mL = 16 , 637 grams of I P A Grams of green #3
16 , 637 grams of I P A -> grams of green #3 = 16 , 637 gr . I P
A .times. 0.00375 = 62.39 gr . of green #3 ##EQU00001##
[0063] The tint to alcohol ratio for consistent color with CAS No.
235345-9 FD&C Green #3 dye was approximately 0.00375.
[0064] Five (5) gallons of 70% IPA (16.64 Kg) was added to the five
(5) gallon carboy container. Then 62.4 grams of CAS No. 235345-9
FD&C Green #3 dye was added to the five (5) gallons of 70% EPA.
The carboy container was placed onto a cart containing an air motor
fixture. The air motor was dropped down and secured to the fixture
while the shaft and propeller were centered through the carboy
opening. The solution was mixed with a shaft rotation of 500 rmp
for thirty (30) minutes to ensure total dissolution of the dye into
the 70% IPA.
[0065] After the dye had thoroughly dissolved into 70% EPA, the
safety dispensing jug was removed from the mixer apparatus and
closure cap was tightened. The solution was poured into a tank with
a corresponding dipping basket. The porous plugs were placed into a
dipping basket and lowered into the tank. Solution was added as
necessary until porous plugs were completely saturated in dyed
solution. The dipping basket was removed from the tank and excess
solution was drained. The wet porous plugs were placed onto surface
covered with plastic to dry for 24 hours.
[0066] Thirty random porous plug samples were obtained and their
individual wet weights were recorded and analyzed with the aid of
MINITAB statistical analysis software package. As may be seen in
the results below, the average wet weight was about two (2) grams,
while the lowest weight measured was close to 1.8 grams and the
highest was 2.1 grams. The following Tables 1, 2 and 3 list the
properties of the tinted porous plugs of the present example.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Process Data USL (Upper Specification Limit)
2.2500 LSL (Lower Specification Limit) 1.7500 Mean 2.0061 Sample
Number 30 Standard Deviation (Within) 0.0825230 Standard Deviation
(Overall) 0.0816697
[0067] Constructed and operated as previously described, this
invention provides a liquid applicator and a method of coloring a
liquid. More specifically, the present invention relates to a
liquid applicator having a flexible hollow body within which a
liquid-filled, glass ampoule is received. The liquid applicator
also has porous element having colorant closing off an open end of
the body. When the ampoule is fractured, the liquid flows through
the porous element having colorant. Colorant is transferred to the
liquid as it flows through the porous element having colorant. The
resulting colored solution may be applied to the desired
surface.
[0068] From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is
one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set
forth together with other advantages which are obvious and which
are inherent in the structure. It will be understood that certain
features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed
without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is
contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims. Since many
possible embodiments may be made of the invention without departing
from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matter
herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be
interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
* * * * *