U.S. patent application number 13/988792 was filed with the patent office on 2014-05-01 for liner-based dispensing systems.
This patent application is currently assigned to Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Richard Chism, Lawrence H. Dubois, Greg Nelson, Glenn Tom, Donald Ware. Invention is credited to Richard Chism, Lawrence H. Dubois, Greg Nelson, Glenn Tom, Donald Ware.
Application Number | 20140117043 13/988792 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46146382 |
Filed Date | 2014-05-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140117043 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ware; Donald ; et
al. |
May 1, 2014 |
LINER-BASED DISPENSING SYSTEMS
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to novel and advantageous
disposable dispensers. The dispenser may include a dispense
assembly comprising an outlet channel in fluid communication with a
terminal apparatus, and a pressure source providing a limited
supply of fluid or gas, and also includes a collapsible liner that
contains a material to be dispensed, the liner detachably secured
to the dispense assembly with the outlet channel in fluid
communication with an interior of the liner, wherein the material
in the liner is dispensed out the liner and through the outlet
channel to the terminal apparatus.
Inventors: |
Ware; Donald; (Woodbury,
MN) ; Tom; Glenn; (Bloomington, MN) ; Chism;
Richard; (Round Rock, TX) ; Nelson; Greg;
(Minneapolis, MN) ; Dubois; Lawrence H.; (Danbury,
CT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ware; Donald
Tom; Glenn
Chism; Richard
Nelson; Greg
Dubois; Lawrence H. |
Woodbury
Bloomington
Round Rock
Minneapolis
Danbury |
MN
MN
TX
MN
CT |
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Advanced Technology Materials,
Inc.
Danbury
CT
|
Family ID: |
46146382 |
Appl. No.: |
13/988792 |
Filed: |
November 22, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
November 22, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US11/61771 |
371 Date: |
January 3, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61416444 |
Nov 23, 2010 |
|
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|
61437422 |
Jan 28, 2011 |
|
|
|
61468843 |
Mar 29, 2011 |
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61468832 |
Mar 29, 2011 |
|
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|
61525540 |
Aug 19, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
222/95 ;
222/105 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B67D 7/72 20130101; B65D
83/0055 20130101; B65D 85/84 20130101; B67D 1/0412 20130101; B67D
1/0462 20130101; B05B 9/0811 20130101; B05B 9/0833 20130101; B05B
9/0838 20130101; B67D 7/0255 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/95 ;
222/105 |
International
Class: |
B65D 35/28 20060101
B65D035/28 |
Claims
1. A dispenser comprising: a dispense assembly comprising a
disposable pressure source and an outlet channel in fluid
communication with a terminal apparatus; and a collapsible liner
that contains a material to be dispensed, the liner detachably
secured to the dispense assembly with the outlet channel in fluid
communication with an interior of the liner, wherein the material
in the liner is dispensed out the liner and through the outlet
channel to the terminal apparatus.
2. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the dispense assembly causes
dispense of the material to be dispensed by introducing a fluid or
gas from the disposable pressure source into the liner, thereby
forcing the material in the liner out of the liner and to the
outlet channel.
3. The dispenser of claim 1, further comprising an overpack that
holds the liner and that detachably secures to the dispense
assembly.
4. The dispenser of claim 3, wherein the dispense assembly causes
dispense of the material to be dispensed by introducing a fluid or
gas form the disposable pressure source into an annular space
between the liner and the overpack, thereby causing the liner to
collapse and forcing the material in the liner out of the liner and
to the outlet channel.
5. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the pressure source is a
disposable gas cartridge.
6. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the terminal apparatus is a
spout.
7. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the terminal apparatus is a
spray head.
8. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the terminal apparatus is a
hose.
9. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the liner comprises a fitment
having a closure seal providing secure containment of the materials
to be dispensed.
10. The dispenser of claim 9, wherein the closure seal is
resealable.
11. A dispenser comprising: a dispense assembly comprising an
outlet channel in fluid communication with a terminal apparatus,
and a pressure source providing a limited supply of fluid or gas;
and a collapsible liner that contains a material to be dispensed,
the liner detachably secured to the dispense assembly with the
outlet channel in fluid communication with an interior of the
liner, wherein the material in the liner is dispensed out the liner
and through the outlet channel to the terminal apparatus.
12. The dispenser of claim 11, wherein the dispense assembly causes
dispense of the material to be dispensed by introducing the fluid
or gas from the disposable pressure source into the liner, thereby
forcing the material in the liner out of the liner and to the
outlet channel.
13. The dispenser of claim 11, further comprising an overpack that
holds the liner and that detachably secures to the dispense
assembly.
14. The dispenser of claim 13, wherein the dispense assembly causes
dispense of the material to be dispensed by introducing the fluid
or gas form the disposable pressure source into an annular space
between the liner and the overpack, thereby causing the liner to
collapse and forcing the material in the liner out of the liner and
to the outlet channel.
15. The dispenser of claim 11, wherein the dispenser is configured
for limited use ending at least by depletion of the limited supply
of the pressure source.
16. A method for portable dispense of contents of a liner, the
method comprising: detachably connecting a dispense assembly,
comprising an outlet channel in fluid communication with a terminal
apparatus, and a pressure source providing a limited supply of
fluid or gas, with a collapsible liner with the outlet channel in
fluid communication with an interior of the liner, the liner
containing a material to be dispensed; and activating the pressure
source, causing the fluid or gas to be introduced into the liner,
thereby forcing the material in the liner out of the liner and to
the outlet channel.
17. A method for portable dispense of contents of a liner, the
method comprising: detachably connecting a dispense assembly,
comprising an outlet channel in fluid communication with a terminal
apparatus, and a pressure source providing a limited supply of
fluid or gas, with an overpack and collapsible liner assembly, with
the outlet channel in fluid communication with an interior of the
liner, the liner containing a material to be dispensed; and
activating the pressure source, causing the fluid or gas to be
introduced into an annular space between the liner and the
overpack, thereby causing the liner to collapse and forcing the
material in the liner out of the liner and to the outlet
channel.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein pressure source may be
controllably activated and deactivated until the limited supply of
fluid or gas from the pressure source is depleted.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein dispense is controlled by a
timer-controlled valve.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein dispense is triggered by
sensing an external event.
21. The method of claim 17, wherein the material to be dispensed
from the liner is continuously dispensed until the limited supply
of fluid or gas from the pressure source is depleted.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to dispensers. More
particularly, in one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to
dispensing systems that comprise or include a flexible liner or a
rigid collapsible liner that contains the material to be dispensed,
wherein in some embodiments, the entire dispensing system may be
disposed of and/or recycled after use.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The use of dispensing systems to dispense materials onto a
particular surface, area, or location is well known. For example, a
dispenser may be used to apply, for example, pesticides,
fertilizers, cleaning solutions, paint, or other chemicals to a
desired area. A dispenser may also be used to dispense reagents,
lubricants, and/or other chemicals or materials that are used in
the medical, laboratory research, automotive, military,
construction, cosmetic, food and/or many other industries, for
example. Dispensers may be used in industries that require the
material being dispensed to maintain a high, and in some cases a
substantially high degree of purity until the material is
dispensed. Some materials used in industries such as, for example,
the semi-conductor industry, display panel industry, biomedical
industry and/or food and beverage industry cannot be contaminated
or degraded if the material is to be useful and/or meet required
standards or regulations. Additionally, some materials that may be
dispensed via dispensers may be or may also be harmful to people,
animals, plants, and/or the environment.
[0003] Some known dispensers may not adequately maintain or ensure
the purity of the contents of the dispenser. For example, some
dispensers are unable to keep gas or other contaminants from
getting into the contents stored in the liner. Further, many
dispensers require a user to pour the desired material into the
dispenser from the container that originally houses the material.
This may result in a loss of material, which in some cases could be
relatively expensive. Further, the material being transferred to
the dispenser may degrade as it comes into contact with the
environment. Finally, in cases where the material being transferred
is noxious or harmful, the user must assume the risks of being
exposed to the material during transfer.
[0004] Further, many traditional dispensers, such as pump
dispensers, for example, are relatively expensive. Accordingly, in
order for their use to be cost-effective, the dispensing system, or
some portion thereof may need to be reused. In order to reuse a
dispenser, the entire dispenser, or some portion thereof, must be
cleaned to prevent clogging, contamination, corrosion, etc. All of
the areas of the dispenser that come into contact with the
dispensed material must be cleaned before the dispenser can be
properly used again. Cleaning the dispenser after use is time
consuming and/or expensive. Further, depending on what material is
contained in the dispenser, cleaning the dispenser may expose the
user doing the cleaning to harmful chemicals or substances. The
more parts of the dispenser that need to be cleaned after use, the
greater the risk that the user will come into contact with the
substance contained in the dispenser. In addition to the relatively
high cost of reusable pump dispensers, pump dispensers may damage
the material being pumped as the pumping process may create
excessive shear forces on the material.
[0005] Accordingly, a need exists for a dispenser that does not
require a user to transfer the desired chemical or other material
from the container initially holding the material into the
dispenser. Additionally, a need exists for a dispenser that limits
or substantially eliminates contamination and/or degradation of the
contents of the dispenser. Further, the need exists for a dispenser
that does not require extensive cleaning of its components prior to
reuse, and may accordingly be substantially disposable after use.
Further yet, a need exists for isolating the contents of a
dispenser from the environment from the point of filling to final
dispense of the contents.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present disclosure relates to novel and advantageous
disposable dispensers. The dispensers include a dispensing
assembly. The dispensing assembly has a connector, an outlet
channel that may be integrated with or independent from the
connector, a terminal apparatus, and a pressure source. The
dispenser also has a collapsible liner that contains a material to
be dispensed. The liner operably secures to the dispense assembly,
wherein the material in the liner is dispensed by pressure dispense
out the liner and through the terminal apparatus of the dispense
assembly.
[0007] The present disclosure further relates to novel and
advantageous reusable dispensers with disposable outlets. The
dispensers include a dispensing assembly. The dispensing assembly
has a connector, a disposable and replaceable outlet channel, a
terminal apparatus, and a pressure source. The dispenser also has a
collapsible liner that contains a material to be dispensed. The
liner operably secures to the dispense assembly, wherein the
material in the liner is dispensed by pressure dispense out the
liner and through the terminal apparatus of the dispense
assembly.
[0008] The present disclosure, in one embodiment, relates to a
dispenser including a dispense assembly having a disposable
pressure source and an outlet channel in fluid communication with a
terminal apparatus, and a collapsible liner that contains a
material to be dispensed, the liner detachably secured to the
dispense assembly with the outlet channel in fluid communication
with an interior of the liner, wherein the material in the liner is
dispensed out the liner and through the outlet channel to the
terminal apparatus. The dispense assembly may cause dispense of the
material to be dispensed by introducing a fluid or gas from the
disposable pressure source into the liner, thereby forcing the
material in the liner out of the liner and to the outlet channel.
In another embodiment, the dispenser may include an overpack that
holds the liner and that detachably secures to the dispense
assembly. As such, in some embodiments, the dispense assembly may
cause dispense of the material to be dispensed by introducing a
fluid or gas form the disposable pressure source into an annular
space between the liner and the overpack, thereby causing the liner
to collapse and forcing the material in the liner out of the liner
and to the outlet channel. The pressure source may be a disposable
gas cartridge. The terminal apparatus may be a spout, a spray head,
a hose, or the like. The liner may also include a fitment having a
closure seal providing secure containment of the materials to be
dispensed. The closure seal could be resealable.
[0009] The present disclosure, in another embodiment, relates to a
dispenser including a dispense assembly comprising an outlet
channel in fluid communication with a terminal apparatus, and a
pressure source providing a limited supply of fluid or gas, and
also includes a collapsible liner that contains a material to be
dispensed, the liner detachably secured to the dispense assembly
with the outlet channel in fluid communication with an interior of
the liner, wherein the material in the liner is dispensed out the
liner and through the outlet channel to the terminal apparatus. As
discussed above, the dispense assembly may cause dispense of the
material to be dispensed by introducing the fluid or gas from the
disposable pressure source into the liner, thereby forcing the
material in the liner out of the liner and to the outlet channel.
In another embodiment, the dispenser may include an overpack that
holds the liner and that detachably secures to the dispense
assembly. As such, in some embodiments, the dispense assembly may
cause dispense of the material to be dispensed by introducing the
fluid or gas form the disposable pressure source into an annular
space between the liner and the overpack, thereby causing the liner
to collapse and forcing the material in the liner out of the liner
and to the outlet channel. In some embodiments, the dispenser is
configured for limited use ending at least by depletion of the
limited supply of the pressure source.
[0010] The present disclosure, in yet another embodiment, relates
to a method for portable dispense of contents of a liner. The
method may include detachably connecting a dispense assembly,
comprising an outlet channel in fluid communication with a terminal
apparatus, and a pressure source providing a limited supply of
fluid or gas, with a collapsible liner with the outlet channel in
fluid communication with an interior of the liner, the liner
containing a material to be dispensed. The method may also include
activating the pressure source, causing the fluid or gas to be
introduced into the liner, thereby forcing the material in the
liner out of the liner and to the outlet channel.
[0011] The present disclosure, in still another embodiment, relates
to a method for portable dispense of contents of a liner. The
method may include detachably connecting a dispense assembly,
comprising an outlet channel in fluid communication with a terminal
apparatus, and a pressure source providing a limited supply of
fluid or gas, with an overpack and collapsible liner assembly, with
the outlet channel in fluid communication with an interior of the
liner, the liner containing a material to be dispensed. The method
may also include activating the pressure source, causing the fluid
or gas to be introduced into an annular space between the liner and
the overpack, thereby causing the liner to collapse and forcing the
material in the liner out of the liner and to the outlet channel.
In some embodiments, the pressure source may be controllably
activated and deactivated until the limited supply of fluid or gas
from the pressure source is depleted. The dispense could be
controlled by a timer-controlled valve or triggered by sensing an
external event. In other embodiments, the material to be dispensed
from the liner may be continuously dispensed until the limited
supply of fluid or gas from the pressure source is depleted.
[0012] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other
embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which
shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the disclosure. As
will be realized, the various embodiments of the present disclosure
are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are
to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] While the specification concludes with claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter that is
regarded as forming the various embodiments of the present
disclosure, it is believed that the disclosure will be better
understood from the following description taken in conjunction with
the accompanying Figures, in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 shows a cut-away view of a dispensing system,
according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 2 shows a liner, according to one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 3 shows a broken cut-away view of a pressure dispense
of one embodiment of a dispensing system of the present
disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 4A shows the terminal apparatus, according to one
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 4B shows the terminal apparatus, according to another
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 4C shows the terminal apparatus, according to yet
another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 5A shows a dispenser with the pressure source connected
thereto, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 5B shows a dispenser with the pressure source connected
to the connector of the dispenser, according to one embodiment of
the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 6 shows a dispenser, according to one embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 7 shows a liner and overpack, according to one
embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] The present disclosure relates to novel and advantageous
dispensing systems. More particularly, in one embodiment, the
present disclosure relates to dispensing systems that comprise or
include a flexible liner or a rigid collapsible liner that contains
the material to be dispensed, wherein in some embodiments, the
dispensing system may be disposed of and/or recycled after use,
thereby eliminating the need to clean the dispenser after use.
Additionally, the material would not need to be transferred from an
original package to the dispenser, as the material may be
originally packaged in the dispenser. Further, because the entire
system could come ready-to-use, the material would not need to ever
be exposed to the environment or the user until dispense.
[0025] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with a
variety of materials in a variety of different industries.
Dispensers of the present disclosure may contain, for example, but
are not limited to: pesticides/fertilizers;
paints/glosses/solvents/coating-materials etc.; power washing
fluids; lubricants for use in the automobile or aviation industry,
for example; food products, such as condiments, for example;
reagents or other materials for use in the biomedical or research
industry; hazardous materials used by the military, for example; or
any other material that may be dispensed by pressure dispense, for
example. Materials that may be used with embodiments of the present
disclosure may have any viscosity, including high viscosity and low
viscosity fluids.
[0026] As may be seen in FIG. 1, in one embodiment of the present
disclosure a dispenser 100 may comprise a liner 102, an overpack
110, and a dispense assembly 130 that may be detachably secured to
the liner 102 and/or the overpack 110. The liner 102 may be filled
with the material M that is to be dispensed. In some embodiments,
the material M may be sold in the liner 102, which may or may not
already be positioned in the overpack 110. Accordingly, the user
need only connect the liner 102 and/or the overpack 110 to the
dispense assembly 130, thereby avoiding the problems and risks
associated with transferring the material from its original
container to the fluid reservoir. In other embodiments, the
dispenser 100 may be purchased as a complete system, wherein the
liner 102 is filled with material M and positioned in the overpack
110 with the dispense assembly 130 already connected to the liner
102 and/or overpack 110. The users of such embodiments generally
need only to activate a dispense actuator in order to dispense the
contents of the dispenser.
[0027] The liner 102 may be a collapsible liner that is
substantially flexible, while in other embodiments the liner may be
somewhat rigid but still collapsible, e.g., a rigid collapsible
liner. The liner 102 may be manufactured using any suitable
material or combination of materials, for example but not limited
to, one or more polymers, including plastics, nylons, EVOH,
polyolefins, or other natural or synthetic polymers. In further
embodiments, the overpack 102 may be manufactured using
polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN),
poly(butylene 2,6-naphthalate) (PBN), polyethylene (PE), linear
low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE),
medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), high-density polyethylene
(HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and/or a fluoropolymer, such as but not
limited to, polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE),
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene
(FEP), and perfluoroalkoxy (PFA). In some embodiments, the material
or materials selected and the thickness of that material or those
materials may determine the rigidity of the liner 102. The liner
102 may have one or more layers and may have any desirable
thickness. A liner 102 may have a thickness of, for example, from
about 0.05 mm to about 3 mm, or any other suitable thickness. As
used here and throughout the present disclosure, ranges are used as
a short hand for describing each and every value that is within the
range; any value within the range can be selected as the terminus
of the range.
[0028] With reference to FIG. 1, although not required, an overpack
110 may be used with a liner 102 and dispense assembly 130, in some
embodiments. As shown in FIG. 1, the liner 102 may be placed inside
of the overpack 110. In some embodiments, the overpack 110 may be a
known overpack that may already be used in one or more industries,
for example, and/or may be of any suitable shape or configuration,
such as, but not limited to, a bottle, a can, a drum, etc. In other
embodiments, the overpack 110 may be manufactured specifically for
use with embodiments of the present disclosure. The overpack 110
may take any desired shape and may be comprised of any suitable
relatively rigid material. For example, the overpack 110 may be
comprised of plastic, metal, wood, corrugated cardboard,
composites, glass, or any other suitable material, or combination
of materials, including any of the materials or combination of
materials listed above with respect to the liner 102. The overpack
110 and liner 102 need not be manufactured from the same
materials.
[0029] The liner 102 may be configured to comprise any desirable
shape that is appealing to the user, and/or assists in the collapse
of the liner. The liner 102, in some embodiments, may be
dimensioned and shaped to substantially conform to the interior of
the overpack 110. As such, the liner 102 may have a relatively
simplistic design with a generally smooth outer surface, or the
liner may have a relatively complicated design including, for
example but not limited to, indentations and/or protrusions. In
some embodiments, the liner wall may include a generally textured
surface in order to minimize adhesion. For example, in some
embodiments, the surface may include a plurality of bumps, scales,
or projections, which may each have any appropriate size, for
example, but not limited to, from about 0.5-100 .mu.m. Texturizing
features may be spaced any suitable distance from one another. In
some embodiments, the texturizing may comprise a framework, such as
a lattice or scaffold, for example. Examples of some suitable
texturizing features are described in greater detail in U.S.
Provisional Patent Appln. No. 61/334,005, titled, "Fluid Processing
Components with Textured Surface for Decreased Adhesion and Related
Methods," filed May 12, 2010, which is hereby incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety. The liner 102 may have a
relatively thin liner wall, as compared to the thickness of the
overpack wall. In some embodiments, the liner 102 may be flexible
such that the liner wall may be readily collapsed, such as by
vacuum through the mouth or by pressure between the liner 102 and
overpack 110, referred to herein as the annular space
therebetween.
[0030] The liner 102, in a further embodiment, may have a shape,
when inflated or filled, that is different from, but complimentary
with, the shape of the overpack 110 such that it may be disposed
therein. In some embodiments, the liner 102 may be removably
attached to the interior of the overpack wall. The liner 102 may
provide a barrier, such as a gas barrier, against drive gas
migration from the annular space between the liner 102 and the
overpack 110. Accordingly, the liner 102 may generally ensure
and/or maintain the purity of the contents within the liner.
[0031] In some embodiments, particularly where sterility of the
contents of the liner must be substantially maintained, the liner
102 may be comprised of a material that may help ensure or maintain
a sterile environment for the contents disposed in the liner. For
example, in some embodiments the liner may be comprised of TK8
manufactured by ATMI of Danbury, Conn., or any other suitable
material. As noted above, in some embodiments, the liner 102 may
comprise multiple layers. The multiple layers may comprise one or
more different polymers or other suitable materials. In some
embodiments, the thickness, ply, and/or the composition of the
liner and/or the layers of the liner may allow for the secure and
substantially uncontaminated shipment of the contents of the
liner-based system of the present disclosure by limiting or
eliminating typical weaknesses or problems associated with
traditional liners or packages, such as, for example weld tears,
pin holes, gas entrainment, and/or any other means of
contamination. Similarly, or in addition, the liner 102 may also
contribute to the secure and substantially uncontaminated shipment
of the contents of the dispense system of the present disclosure by
configuring the liner to substantially conform to the shape of the
overpack when the liner is filled, thereby reducing the amount of
movement of the contents during shipping. Further, in embodiments
where the liner substantially conforms to the shape of the
overpack, the amount of movement of the liner during shipment may
be reduced or substantially reduced, advantageously reducing or
eliminating the occurrence of pin holes.
[0032] The overpack 110 and liner 102 may each be manufactured
using any suitable manufacturing process, for example but not
limited to, welding or blow molding, including extrusion blow
molding, injection blow molding, stretch blow molding and/or reheat
and blow molding, or any other suitable process, and may each be
manufactured as a single component or may be a combination of
multiple components. In some embodiments, the overpack 110 and
liner 102 may be blow molded in a nested fashion, also referred to
herein as co-blow molded. Examples of liner-based systems and
methods utilizing co-blow molding techniques have been described in
greater detail in International PCT Appl. No. PCT/US11/55560,
titled, "Nested Blow Molded Liner and Overpack and Methods of
Making Same," filed Oct. 10, 2011, which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
[0033] In one particular embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, a
dispenser may include a liner-based system 700 having a liner
positioned within an overpack 706. The liner and overpack may each
be formed by blow molding, such as but not limited to nested
co-blow molding, as indicated above. The liner and/or overpack may
include surface features, and in some embodiments, such as where
nested co-blow molding is used to manufacture the liner and
overpack, co-extensive surface features. Particularly, in one
embodiment, the liner and overpack may contain surface features,
such as but not limited to, one or more indented or protruding
panels that may be positioned around the circumference of the liner
and overpack. More particularly, in one embodiment, the liner and
overpack may contain surface features, such as but not limited to,
one or more surface features or panels having a generally
rectangular-shaped design. For example, as may be seen in FIG. 7,
six generally rectangular-shaped panels 702 may be vertically
disposed along the circumference of the liner and/or overpack
walls; however, any other number of panels may be suitably used.
The panels 702 may have a height generally equal to the non-sloping
height of the liner and overpack; that is to say, for example, that
the panels 702 may not cover the top portion of a liner and
overpack that may begin to slope or curve toward the mouth of the
liner and overpack. In some embodiments, the panels 702 may each
have substantially the same size and shape as the other panels, or
in other embodiments, one or more panels may be differently sized
and shaped than one or more other panels. Also, the boundary edge
that defines a panel 702 may have any suitable thickness and/or
definition, including a shallow depth or a more defined and/or
greater depth. In some embodiments, the edging depth may be
generally the same for each panel and/or for the entire perimeter
of a single panel, while in other embodiments the depth may vary
from panel to panel or from one position along the perimeter to
another position along the perimeter of the same panel. While the
six-panel design is described and shown as generally
rectangularly-shaped panels 702, it will be understood that any
suitable or desirable geometry is contemplated and within the
spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Further, it will be
understood that any suitable number of panels, spaced any suitable
distance from one another is contemplated and within the spirit and
scope of the present disclosure. Generally, surface features such
as one or more panels may add strength and/or rigidity to the liner
and/or overpack. However, in some embodiments, more shallow edging
may also keep the liner from sticking to the overpack.
[0034] As may also be seen in FIG. 7, the liner-based system 700
may, in some embodiments, include a chime 704, which may be used,
for example, to provide a smooth generally rigid exterior surface
for the liner-based system, which can hide any dimpling effects of
the liner and/or overpack created by temperature changes and/or may
create a surface for labels and the like. In some embodiments, the
chime 704 may extend a sufficient height to generally cover the
rectangular panel surface features, while in other embodiments, the
modified chime may extend any suitable lesser height, including a
substantially shorter height as compared to the liner or overpack,
which may add free-standing support to the liner-based system. The
chime 704 may be comprised of any suitable material, including
plastic, for example high density polyethylene (HDPE), PET or any
other suitable polyester, or any other suitable material or
plastic, or combination thereof. The chime 704 may be relatively
rigid as compared to the liner and/or overpack in some embodiments,
and because the chime may generally fit over a substantial portion
of the liner/overpack, if the liner/overpack collapses, dimples, or
otherwise distorts, the chime may generally maintain a smooth and
rigid shape. As such, any distortion of the liner/overpack may be
generally unobservable from the exterior of the liner-based system.
Further, the smooth exterior surface of the chime 704 may provide a
generally undistorted surface for adhering a label. The chime 704
may also include a colorant or other additives to protect the liner
and overpack from UV light. In some embodiments, the overpack 706
may include connecting features 708 for connecting to the chime,
including snap-fit, friction-fit, bayonet, adhesive, or other
features that allow the chime to be detachably coupled to the
overpack.
[0035] Further examples and embodiments of the type of liners and
overpacks that may be used are disclosed in more detail in:
International PCT Appl. No. PCT/US11/55558, titled, "Substantially
Rigid Collapsible Liner, Container and/or Liner for Replacing Glass
Bottles, and Enhanced Flexible Liners," filed Oct. 10, 2011;
International PCT Appl. No. PCT/US11/55560, titled, "Nested Blow
Molded Liner and Overpack and Methods of Making Same," filed Oct.
10, 2011; U.S. Prov. Appl. No. 61/556,943, titled "Generally
Cylindrically-Shaped Liner for Use in Pressure Dispense Systems and
Methods of Manufacturing the Same," filed Nov. 8, 2011; U.S. Prov.
Appl. No. 61/468,832, titled "Liner-Based Dispenser," filed Mar.
29, 2011; U.S. Prov. Appl. No. 61/525,540, titled "Liner-Based
Dispensing Systems," filed Aug. 19, 2011; U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 11/915,996, titled "Fluid Storage and Dispensing Systems
and Processes," filed Jun. 5, 2006; International PCT Appl. No.
PCT/US10/51786, titled "Material Storage and Dispensing System and
Method With Degassing Assembly," filed Oct. 7, 2010, International
PCT Appl. No. PCT/US10/41629, U.S. Pat. No. 7,335,721, U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/912,629, U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/302,287, and International PCT Appl. No. PCT/US08/85264, each of
which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
The overpack 102 and liner 104 for use with the shipping and
dispense system 100 of the present disclosure may include any of
the embodiments, features, and/or enhancements disclosed in any of
the above noted applications, including, but not limited to,
flexible, rigid collapsible, 2-dimensional, 3-dimensional, welded,
molded, gusseted, and/or non-gusseted liners, and/or liners that
contain folds and/or liners that comprise methods for limiting or
eliminating choke-off and liners sold under the brand name
NOWpak.RTM. by ATMI, Inc. for example. Various features of
dispensing systems disclosed in embodiments described herein may be
used in combination with one or more other features described with
regard to other embodiments.
[0036] As may be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the liner 102 may also have
a fitment 116 that may be integral with the liner 102. The fitment
116 may be comprised of a thicker material than the rest of the
liner 102. The fitment 116 may contain a closure seal 120 in some
embodiments, such that the material M in the liner 102 may be
securely contained until dispense. The closure seal 120, in some
embodiments, may be removed prior to connecting the liner 102 to
the overpack and/or dispense assembly. In such embodiments, any
suitable method of removing all or a portion of the closure seal
120 may be used. For example, a pull tab may be used to remove the
closure seal 120, in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the
closure seal 120 may be pierced, punctured, or pushed through prior
to or during attachment of the dispense assembly to the dispenser
for dispense. In yet another embodiment, the seal 120 may be a
reclosable seal that may automatically close if or when the liner
102 is removed from the dispense assembly. A reclosable seal may
advantageously limit or substantially eliminate the exposure of any
remaining material to the environment if/when the dispense assembly
may be removed from the liner 102.
[0037] In one embodiment, the liner 102, and overpack in some
embodiments, may be configured or adapted for connection with
existing or traditional dispense assemblies. In other embodiments
of the system, which for example may be purchased as a complete
system, may be provided with the dispense assembly, and in some
cases with the dispense assembly already attached to the liner
and/or overpack.
[0038] In some embodiments, the closure seal 120 on the liner 102
may be punctured or otherwise removed, for example, the first time
a user attaches or actuates the dispense assembly (discussed
further below). In some embodiments, the closure seal may reseal or
close, such as but not limited to, via a self-sealing closure, each
time a user deactivates the dispense assembly, while in other
embodiments, the closure seal may not reseal or close once the seal
has been opened. In some embodiments, the closure seal may be a
valve, such as a piston with a spring, or any other suitable valve,
that may permit the closure seal to automatically open when the
liquid is dispensed, for example, and/or automatically close when
dispense is halted.
[0039] In some embodiments, the dispense assembly 130 may comprise:
a connector 134; a cover 140; an outlet channel 164; and a pressure
source 180. As described above, the connector 134 may be detachably
secured to the liner 102 via connecting features, for example
threads on the connector 134 that mate with complimentary threads
on the fitment 116 of the liner 102. In other embodiments, however,
the connector 134 of the dispense assembly 130 may connect to the
liner 102 by any suitable means, such as, for example, snap fit,
locking hinges, or any other suitable method or combination of
methods. The connector 134 may also comprise a dispense opening 136
for the material M in the liner 102 to flow from the liner 102
through the outlet channel 164 to a desired location via a terminal
apparatus (discussed further below). In one embodiment, the
connector 134 may include connecting features that couple with
connecting features on the overpack 110, for example on the neck
112 of the overpack 110.
[0040] In some embodiments, the connector 134 of the dispense
assembly 130 may also include a dip tube 168 that may be integral
with the connector 134 and may extend into the liner 102 through
the liner fitment 116 any suitable distance, for example. In other
embodiments, the connector 134 of the dispense assembly 130 may
have features for detachably securing a dip tube 168 to it (such as
complimentary threading, snap-fit, friction-fit, or any other
suitable mechanism for connecting to the dip tube). In some
embodiments, the dispensing assembly may include a tube or hose
that extends only a relatively short distance into the interior of
the liner 102, in order to direct the material out of the liner,
which may be referred to as a "stubby probe." In some embodiments,
the use of a stubby probe may advantageously allow for the removal
of any excess gas at the top of the liner, sometimes referred to as
head space gas, prior to dispense in order to substantially reduce
the amount of gas that may dissolve in the contents of the liner.
Examples of "stubby probes" that may be used with the present
disclosure may be those of ATMI of Danbury, Conn., or those
disclosed in PCT Application No. PCT/US07/70911, entitled "Liquid
Dispensing Systems Encompassing Gas," with an international filing
date of Jun. 11, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein in its entirety. In other embodiments, however, the dip tube
may extend generally the entire vertical distance of the liner, for
example, or any other suitable distance into the liner.
[0041] In some embodiments, the dispense assembly 130 may also
include a cover 140. The cover 140 may fit over the connector 134
and may remain in place during dispense. In other embodiments, the
cover 140 may be removed prior to attaching other portions of the
dispense assembly 130. The cover 140 may detachably or fixedly
secure to the connector 134 and/or the fitment 116 of the liner 102
and/or the neck 112 of the overpack 110, for example.
[0042] In some embodiments of dispensers, some or all of the
separate components may be integral with one another. For example,
in one embodiment, while not required, the outlet channel 164 may
be integral with the connector 134 and/or dip tube 168. In some
embodiments, some or all of the components of the dispense assembly
130 may be disposable and separable from the overpack 110 such that
the overpack may be reusable, for example, by replacing an
exhausted liner 102 from within the overpack with a new or refilled
liner. Once a new or refilled liner is positioned within the
overpack 110, the same dispense assembly 130 or a new or cleaned
dispense assembly may be reattached with the liner 102 and/or
overpack and the dispenser reused. In some embodiments, some
components of the initial dispense assembly 130 may be reused while
others are replaced prior to reconnection with the liner 102 and/or
overpack 110. For example, but not limited by, the outlet channel
164 and/or dip tube 168 may be replaced with a new outlet channel
or dip tube and the used one(s) disposed off. Such replacement can
decrease contamination of any new contents within the liner 102. In
these embodiments, waste may be reduced, since the overpack and
certain other components need not be replaced after every use.
[0043] The overpack 110, and in some embodiments the overpack 110
and the liner 102, may be detachably connected to the connector 134
and/or cover 140 of the dispense assembly 130. In still other
embodiments, the liner 102 may be attached to the connector 134
and/or the cover 140 of the dispense assembly 130, while the
overpack 110 may not be. The overpack 110 may have a neck 112
comprising features for connecting the overpack 110 to the dispense
assembly 130. In some embodiments, for example, the neck 112 may
comprise threads that may mate with complimentary threads on the
connector 134 of the dispense assembly 130. In other embodiments,
the connecting features may comprise any suitable method for
securing the dispense assembly 130 to the overpack 110, for
example.
[0044] Embodiments of dispensers that include an overpack 110 may
be configured to dispense material by any suitable mechanism. In
one embodiment, the contents M of the liner 102 may be dispensed by
pressure dispense, for example, whereby a substance S such as a
fluid, gas, or any other suitable substance may be directed into
the annular space 160 between the exterior walls of the liner 102
and the interior walls of the overpack 110. As may be seen in FIG.
3, the substance S that is introduced into the annular space 360
puts pressure on the exterior walls of the liner 302, thereby
collapsing the liner 302 inward, forcing the material M of the
liner into the outlet channel 364 and out of the dispenser. With
reference back to FIG. 1, in embodiments of dispensers 100 using
pressure dispense, the connector 134 and/or cover 140 of the
dispense assembly 130 may have an inlet 182 such that the fluid,
gas, or any other suitable material S may be directed into the
annular space 160 between the exterior walls of the liner 102 and
the interior walls of the overpack 110. Embodiments of the present
disclosure utilizing pressure dispense may or may not include a dip
tube. With any type of dispense, the packaging systems of the
present disclosure may be configured to dispense at any
orientation, including inverted dispensing orientations.
[0045] In other embodiments, the dispense mechanism of the dispense
assembly may comprise a direct pressure dispense mechanism, whereby
a substance, for example, a fluid, gas, or any other suitable
substance, may be introduced directly into the liner, thereby
forcing the material M out of the liner. In such embodiments, the
connector and/or cover of the dispense assembly may include an
inlet channel that permits the fluid, gas, or other substance to be
pumped directly into the liner. Embodiments of dispensers using
this type of pressure dispense, may or may not use an overpack.
Such embodiments may be suitable for use, for example, when the
substance to be dispensed may not be adversely affected by the
introduction of a fluid, gas, or other substance directly into the
substance.
[0046] Because the use of pressure dispense can eliminate the need
for a pump, issues associated with pump dispense, such as, for
example, the damage the shear forces may cause to the material,
pump clogging, pump clean-up, and/or pump replacement/rebuilds may
be reduced or eliminated. The pressure dispense mechanism may
provide for variable rates of dispense, including continuous flow,
continuous spray, and/or controlled periodic bursts, or any other
suitable dispense method and/or rate of dispense.
[0047] The outlet channel 164 of the dispensing assembly may
operably connect to and/or be integral with a terminal apparatus,
through which the dispenser may ultimately deliver the material.
The terminal apparatus may take any suitable form that may be
appropriate for the intended use of the dispenser. In some
embodiments, the terminal apparatus may be attached, connected, or
integrally coupled to the dispenser. In some embodiments, for
example, as may be seen in FIGS. 4A-4C, the terminal apparatus 402
may be attached to the dispenser. As may be seen in FIG. 4A, in one
embodiment, the terminal apparatus may be generally configured as a
spout for dispensing materials such as condiments and/or beverages,
for example. In other embodiments, the terminal apparatus 412 may
be generally configured as a spray head, as shown in FIG. 4B. In
some embodiments, the terminal apparatus may be configured to
provide a wide dispersal pattern, so as to provide wide coverage of
the material being sprayed, which may be useful in applications of,
but not limited to, pesticides, odor neutralizers, fertilizers,
cleaning formulations, irritants, sterilizing preparations, crowd
control agents, perfumes, wetting agents, preservatives, pest
repellents, aromatherapy, paint strippers, adhesives, lubricants,
materials for providing textured surfaces, etc. In one embodiment,
an atomizing nozzle may be used, but other means for creating wide
dispersal spray patterns are considered within the spirit and scope
of the present disclosure. In still other embodiments, the terminal
apparatus 422 may generally be configured as a tube or hose, for
example, as may be seen in FIG. 4C. Materials such as cleaning
materials, beverages, and/or any other suitable material may be
delivered through such a terminal apparatus. While the foregoing
embodiments have been described in some detail, it will be
recognized that any suitable terminal apparatus may be used to
deliver the dispensed material and is within the spirit and scope
of the present disclosure. Further, while the embodiments shown and
described above are depicted with the fitment positioned on the top
of the liner, it will be recognized that the fitment, and therefore
the connector and/or in some cases the terminal apparatus, may be
positioned at any suitable place on the liner.
[0048] In other embodiments, the terminal apparatus may be remote,
that is it may not be directly attached to the dispenser, but
rather may be operably coupled to the dispenser. For example, in
one embodiment the terminal apparatus that is configured as a tube
as shown in FIG. 4C, may connect or otherwise attach to a terminal
apparatus of any suitable type, such as a spray nozzle, a spout, or
any other type of terminal apparatus. In such embodiments, the
terminal apparatus may connect to a hose, tube, or other suitable
apparatus by any suitable means, such as by screwing the terminal
apparatus to the hose, snapping the terminal apparatus to the hose,
or by any other suitable means. The use of a remote terminal
apparatus may be beneficial with dispensers that may be too large
and/or heavy to easily pick-up or move, for example.
[0049] In some embodiments a pressure source 180 may be included as
part of the dispense assembly 130. The pressure source 180 may be
used to pressure dispense the contents of the dispenser 100, by
forcing a gas, for example, into the annular space 160 of the
dispense assembly 100. The pressure source, in some embodiments,
may be connected directly to, or be integral with the dispenser,
while in other embodiments, the pressure source may be remotely
connected to the dispenser via any suitable means, for example
tubing or hosing. In some embodiments, the pressure source 180 may
comprise a carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2), nitrogen (N.sub.2), or other
disposable compressed gas cartridge, for example. In some
embodiments, the pressure source 180 may be generally
free-standing, or generally detached from the dispenser, as shown
in FIG. 1. In such embodiments, the pressure source 180 may be
operably connected to the liner 102 and/or overpack 110 and/or
other features of the dispense assembly 130 via hosing, tubing or
any other suitable means, or combination of means. In other
embodiments, the pressure source may be fixedly or detachably
secured to any portion of the dispenser, in any suitable manner. As
shown in FIG. 5A, for example, the pressure source 506 may be
detachably or fixedly secured to the overpack 508 in any suitable
manner, such as but not limited to, straps, holders, fixatives, or
any other suitable method or combination of methods.
[0050] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5B, the pressure
source 520 may be detachably or fixedly secured to the connector
and/or the cover 524, for example, in any suitable manner, such as,
but not limited to straps, holders, fixatives, or any other
suitable method or combination of methods. In still other
embodiments, the pressure source may be generally directly
detachably connected or integrally connected to the dispense
assembly. While particular embodiments have been described herein,
it will be understood that the pressure source may be positioned at
any suitable place on and/or near the dispenser by any suitable
means. While the pressure source has been discussed as a disposable
cartridge for use with a disposable system, in other embodiments
the pressure source may be any suitable or known pressure source to
which the dispenser may be operably connected.
[0051] FIG. 6 shows yet another embodiment of a dispensing system
600 of the present disclosure. As may be seen, the pressure source
680 may be a gas cartridge, which in some embodiments may be
refillable or disposable, that may be detachably or integrally
coupled to the dispense assembly 630. In some embodiments, as shown
in FIG. 6, the pressure source may be directly coupled with a cover
640 of the dispense assembly. However, those skilled in the art
will recognize that this is not required and/or the pressure source
may be directly coupled with any other suitable element of the
dispense system 600. The pressure source 680 may be in fluid
communication with the interior of the dispensing system overpack
or liner, depending on the pressure dispense application. In some
embodiments, the fluid communication may be permitted via a direct
connection with a pressure inlet (e.g., inlet 182 as shown in FIG.
1) or via a tubing 694 as shown in FIG. 6. In the embodiment of
FIG. 6, the terminal apparatus 690 may be operably coupled to the
dispenser 600 via tubing 664, for example. Furthermore, terminal
apparatus 690 may include a dispense actuator, discussed in further
detail below.
[0052] In one embodiment, the dispensing system 600 may be, or may
be similar to, the portable pressure source and dispense systems
sold under the brand name Tap-A-Draft by Sturman B G, LLC of
Woodland Park, Colo., which have traditionally been used to
maintain and dispense carbonated beverages. Generally, as the
liquid stored in the container to which the Tap-A-Draft system is
attached is poured through the Tap-A-Draft dispense connector, gas,
such as CO.sub.2, Nitrous, or Argon, is allowed to enter the
container to maintain the pressure within the container. Such
portable pressure source and dispense systems, like the pressure
dispense assemblies sold under the brand name Tap-A-Draft by
Sturman B G, LLC, are further described in detail in: U.S. Pat. No.
5,395,012; U.S. Pat. No. 5,443,186; U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,713; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,036,054; U.S. Pat. No. 7,845,522; U.S. Pat. No.
D582,722; U.S. Publ. No. 2009/0242044; and U.S. Publ. No.
2011/0147406, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein in its entirety:
[0053] In use, the dispensing system may be operated by a user with
relatively little, if any, preparatory work. For example, as
discussed above, in some embodiments, a user may need only connect
the dispensing assembly to the liner and/or overpack prior to use,
while in other embodiments, the dispensing system may be purchased
completely assembled, e.g., the dispensing assembly may already be
connected to the liner and/or overpack.
[0054] In some embodiments, a user may activate the dispensing
system by activating the pressure source. The pressure source may
be activated, or turned "on," in a variety of suitable ways, for
example but not limited to, via a button, flip-switch, sliding
switch, or any other suitable actuator or combination of actuators.
In some embodiments, such as in a fully disposable and/or
recyclable embodiment, wherein the pressure source may comprise,
for example, a CO.sub.2, N.sub.2, or other disposable compressed
gas cartridge, the pressure source may be activated by activating
the compressed gas cartridge as would be understood by those
skilled in the art. In some embodiments, activating the pressure
source may cause the contents of the liner or dispensing system to
be dispensed. In still further embodiments, the contents of the
liner or dispensing system may be dispensed continuously until the
pressure source is deactivated or, in the case of a compressed gas
cartridge, for example, until the contents of the pressure source
are entirely or substantially depleted, and/or until the contents
of the liner are substantially depleted or are otherwise down to a
desired level.
[0055] In further embodiments, a user may control dispense of the
contents of the system by actuating a dispense actuator, which in
some embodiments, may be operably coupled or directly integrated
with a component of the dispense system or the terminal apparatus.
As may be seen in FIG. 5A, for example, in some embodiments, the
dispense actuator 510 may comprise a button located on the
dispenser, while in other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the
dispense actuator may be part of the terminal apparatus 690.
However, it will be understood that the dispense actuator may be
any other suitable actuating device, including but not limited to,
a button, plug, flip-switch, sliding switch, clip, locking
mechanism, or any other suitable actuating device or combination of
actuating devices. In some embodiments, the dispense actuator may
simply be a device that blocks and/or unblocks the flow of contents
from the dispense system. At any rate, with a dispense actuator, a
user may control the dispense of the material in the dispenser by
turning the actuator to an "on," activated, or unblocking position,
which may then allow the pressure source to dispense the contents
of the dispense system. In still other embodiments, a single
actuator may be used to both activate the pressure source and the
terminal apparatus. While particular embodiments of dispense
actuators have been described herein, it will be understood that
any suitable configuration for allowing the material of the liner
to be dispensed is within the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure.
[0056] In some embodiments, a dispenser may include more than one
liner that may contain different materials. By way of example, one
liner may contain a dark blue colored paint and another liner may
contain a light purple colored paint. The dispense assembly may
include a connector/cover that may connect to or align with the
fitments of each of the liners. Alternatively, one liner may
comprise two or more compartments that may contain different
materials. When the dispense actuator is activated, the dispense
assembly may draw the material from both of the liners and may mix
the material prior to are at the terminal apparatus, for example,
such that the resulting material that is dispensed out of the
dispenser may be a mixture of the contents of all or some of the
liners. In addition to saving time, such a feature is advantageous
because it does not require a user to be subjected to potentially
noxious fumes or odors during mixing. This embodiment may also be
advantageously used with applications of coatings that may be
unstable and require a catalyst to cure where one liner may contain
the coating and another liner may contain the catalyst, thereby
allowing a mixture of both to be applied. In multiple liner
embodiments, the ratio of the material of each liner that is
included in the mixture may be controlled by a variety of means,
for example, by varying the pressure applied, by varying the size
of a terminal apparatus configured as a nozzle, by varying the size
of the channels through the connector/cover, by varying the size of
any dip tube(s) used, or any other suitable method or combination
of methods.
[0057] In some embodiments, the terminal apparatus may include a
mechanism that may help partially cure the material as it is being
dispensed. This may be achieved by any suitable means, or
combination of means, for example, but not limited to, an
ultraviolet light, an infrared light, and/or a small heater that
may be included in the nozzle of a dispense assembly.
[0058] In another embodiment, a dispenser of the present disclosure
may include a timer-controlled valve, which in some embodiments may
be provided with or integrated with the dispensing assembly, that
permits the use of the dispenser remotely or on a scheduled basis.
In one embodiment, the timer-controlled valve may be controlled by
a microchip integrated with the dispensing assembly or may be
controlled remotely, such as by radio, infrared, WiFi, Bluetooth,
etc. which may be connected to a controller. The timer-controlled
valve could be configured for a one-time dispense event, such as
for use with a fogger or pesticide or may be configured for
repeating dispense events, such as for introducing an odor
neutralizer or aroma into an enclosed space. A dispenser with a
timer-controlled valve may be used for any suitable time-controlled
dispense application.
[0059] In further embodiments, the control valve may be triggered
by an external event or external sensing, such as but not limited
to spraying a fragrance when a person is near, dispensing a
repellent after detection of a pest or a change in ambient
lighting, etc. Such external sensing may be provided by one or more
ultrasonic proximity detectors, photodetectors, or any other
suitable sensors or sensing means or combinations thereof, supplied
with the dispenser.
[0060] In some dispenser embodiments, the liner, overpack, and/or
dispensing assembly may be configured for high flow dispense or
dispense of contents of relatively higher viscosity. In one
embodiment, such high flow or high viscous dispense can be achieved
by providing larger orifice sizes in the liner, overpack, and/or
dispensing assembly, which would allow for higher flow rates or the
larger flow paths for materials with relatively higher
viscosity.
[0061] In some embodiments, a dispenser of the present disclosure
can include features permitting integrated mixing. Such integrated
mixing may be useful, for example, when storing and dispensing two
phase or emulsive products or contents. Mixing may be provided, for
example, via a magnetically coupled stirring rod or stirring plate;
however, other stirring mechanisms can be used, such as but not
limited to a Tesla turbine, in order to circulate or mix the
contents. In some embodiments, the dispenser or one or more
components thereof may need to be modified to provide a more wear
resistant, or a substantially wear resistant, location for the
mixing device. Such wear resistant area may include, but is not
limited to, a dimple or a thickened area in the wall of the liner.
In still other embodiments, the dispenser could be configured to
mate or be used with a shaker or roller in order to mix the
contents stored therein.
[0062] In further embodiments, the dispenser could be modified to
deliver the contents to a mixing system for use in process.
Alternatively, two or more dispensers could be configured to be
connected to one another, or their dispense ports or lines,
connected to one another, so that the contents thereof may be mixed
upon dispense. In yet other embodiments, as discussed above, a
single dispenser may include a plurality of liners (optionally
within a single overpack) and may be configured to mix the contents
of two or more of the plurality of liners upon dispense. Such
embodiments may be used, for example, with reactive materials
dispensing, which may require isolation of components prior to
dispense and may require flow control to deliver the right ratio of
isolated components. One example would be systems that polymerize
or cross-link on dispense like epoxies, casting compounds such as
dental fillers or molds, cleaning agents requiring an oxidizer as a
bleach that does not have long term stability when mixed in the
full preparation, etc. Generally any scenario where short-lived
material would desirably be generated as needed upon mixing could
be used with such an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some
embodiments, a mixing head or connector may be provided. The mixing
head may control the ratio of materials as they are
dispensed/mixed. In some embodiments, the mixing head may be able
to be cleaned, purged, and/or sterilized. A simplistic embodiment
of a mixing head may include orifice plates or constrained volume
dip tubes so that the ratio of materials is controlled. However,
more complicated mixing heads are suitable for the embodiments of
the present disclosure. In other embodiments, a pump, including a
portable pump, may be used with, or connected with one embodiment
of a dispenser disclosed herein, so as to permit the end user to
combine a material or ingredient with the contents of the dispenser
upon dispense, or to add a material or ingredient to the packaging
system prior to dispense. In still further embodiments, co-blow
molded or nested preforms and liners, such as those described in
International PCT Appln. No. PCT/US11/55560, titled, "Nested Blow
Molded Liner and Overpack and Methods of Making Same," filed Oct.
10, 2011; and U.S. Prov. Appl. No. 61/448,172, titled "Nested Blow
Molded Liner and Overpack," filed Mar. 1, 2011, which were
previously incorporated herein, may be used to manufacture a
dispenser having greater than two layers. Two or more separate
materials may be filled into the spaces between the layers. The
dispenser may be configured to mix the separate materials upon
dispense.
[0063] In other embodiments, the dispensers of the present
disclosure may include baffles, baffling features, or other
discontinuities in the interior surface(s) thereof to retard
settling of the suspended solids contained therein during storage
and/or transportation.
[0064] The dispensers described herein may be configured as any
suitable shape, including but not limited to square, rectangular,
triangular or pyramidal, cylindrical, or any other suitable polygon
or other shape. Differently shaped dispensers can improve packing
density during storage and/or transportation, and may reduce
overall transportation costs. Additionally, differently shaped
dispensers can be used to differentiate dispensers from one
another, such as to provide an indicator of the contents provided
within the dispensers or to identify for which application or
applications the contents are to be used, etc. In still further
embodiments, the dispensers described herein may be configured as
any suitable shape in order to "retrofit" the dispensers with
existing dispense assemblies or dispense systems.
[0065] In some embodiments, the dispensers described herein may
include symbols and/or writing that is molded into the dispensers
or one or more components thereof. Such symbols and/or writing may
include, but is not limited to names, logos, instructions,
warnings, etc. Such molding may be done during or after the
manufacturing process of the dispensers or one or more components
thereof. In one embodiment, such molding may be readily
accomplished during the fabrication process by, for example,
embossing the mold for the dispensers or one or more components
thereof. The molded symbols and/or writing may be used, for
example, to differentiate products.
[0066] In some embodiments, one or more colors and/or absorbant
materials may be added to the materials of the dispensers or one or
more components thereof during or after the manufacturing process
to help protect the contents of the dispensers from the external
environment, to decorate the dispensers, or to use as an indicator
or identifier of the contents within the dispensers or otherwise to
differentiate multiple dispensers, etc. Colors may be added using,
for example, dyes, pigments, nanoparticles, or any other suitable
mechanism. Absorbant materials may include materials that absorb
ultraviolet light, infrared light, and/or radio frequency signals,
etc.
[0067] Similarly, in some embodiments, the dispensers or one or
more components thereof may be provided with different textures or
finishes. As with color and molded symbols and/or writing, the
different textures or finishes may be used to differentiate
products, to provide an indicator of the contents provided within
the dispensers, or to identify for which application or
applications the contents are to be used, etc. In one embodiment,
the texture or finish may be designed to be a substantially
non-slip texture or finish or the like, and including or adding
such a texture or finish to the dispensers or one or more
components thereof may help improve graspability or handling of the
packaging system, and thereby reduce or minimize the risk of
dropping of the dispensers. The texture or finish may be readily
accomplished during the fabrication process by, for example,
providing a mold for the dispensers or one or more components
thereof with the appropriate surface features. In other
embodiments, the molded dispensers may be coated with the texture
or finish. In some embodiments, the texture or finish may be
provided on substantially the entire dispenser or substantially the
entirety of one or more components thereof. However, in other
embodiments, the texture or finish may be provided on only a
portion of the dispenser or a portion of one or more components
thereof.
[0068] Similarly, in some embodiments, the exterior and/or interior
walls of the dispensers or one or more components thereof may have
any suitable coating provided thereon. The coating may increase
material compatibility, decrease permeability, increase strength,
increase pinhole resistance, increase stability, provide
anti-static capabilities or otherwise reduce static, etc. Such
coatings can include coatings of polymers or plastic, metal, glass,
adhesives, etc. and may be applied during the manufacturing process
by, for example coating a preform used in blow-molding, or may be
applied post manufacturing, such as by spraying, dipping, filling,
etc.
[0069] In some embodiments, the dispensers may include one or more
handles. The one or more handles can be of any shape or size, and
may be located at any suitable position of the dispensers. Types of
handles can include, but are not limited to, handles that are
located at the top and/or sides; are ergonomic; are removable or
detachable; are molded into the dispensers or are provided after
fabrication of the dispensers (such as by, for example, snap fit,
adhesive, riveting, screwed on, bayonet-fit, etc.); etc. Different
handles and/or handling options can be provided and may depend on,
for example but not limited to, the anticipated contents of the
dispensers, the application for the dispensers, the size and shape
of the dispensers, the anticipated dispensing system for the
dispensers, etc.
[0070] In order to assist in making the dispensers described herein
more sustainable, the dispensers or one or more components thereof,
including any overpack, liner(s), handles, etc., may be
manufactured from biodegradable materials or biodegradable
polymers, including but not limited to: polyhydroxyalkanoates
(PHAs), like poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), polyhydroxyvalerate
(PHV), and polyhydroxyhexanoate (PHH); polylactic acid (PLA);
polybutylene succinate (PBS); polycaprolactone (PCL);
polyanhydrides; polyvinyl alcohol; starch derivatives; cellulose
esters, like cellulose acetate and nitrocellulose and their
derivatives (celluloid); etc.
[0071] In some embodiments, the dispensers may include two or more
layers, such as an overpack and a liner, multiple overpacks, or
multiple liners. In further embodiments, a dispenser may include at
least three layers, which may help ensure enhanced containment of
the contents therein, increase structural strength, and/or decrease
permeability, etc. Any of the layers may be made from the same or
different materials, such as but not limited to, the materials
previously discussed herein.
[0072] In some embodiments, the dispensers or one or more
components thereof may be manufactured from materials that can be
recycled or recovered, and in some embodiments, used in another
process by the same or a different end user, thereby allowing such
end user(s) to lessen their impact on the environment or lower
their overall emissions. For example, in one embodiment, the
dispensers or one or more components thereof may be manufactured
from materials that may be incinerated, such that the heat
generated therefrom may be captured and incorporated or used in
another process by the same or different end user. In general the
dispensers or one or more components thereof may be manufactured
from materials that can be recycled, or that may be converted into
raw materials that may be used again.
[0073] In some embodiments, one or more components of the
dispensers, such as but not limited to the overpack, may be
configured or designed for reuse or reusability, while other
components of the dispensers, such as but not limited to some
components of the dispense assembly, may be configured or designed
for one-time use or disposability. Accordingly, such embodiments
may have a reduced number of components that are disposed of after
use, thereby reducing overall waste. In such embodiments, decreased
contamination risk can be maintained by configuring a dispenser
such that several or all of the components that have contact with
the contents of the liner during dispense may be disposable or
replaceable.
[0074] In some embodiments, structural features may be designed
into the dispensers that add strength and integrity to the
dispensers or one or more components thereof. For example, the base
(or chime in some embodiments), top, and sides of the dispensers
may all be areas that experiences increased shake and external
forces during filling, transportation, installation, and use (e.g.,
dispensing). Accordingly, in one embodiment, added thickness or
structural edifices (e.g., bridge tressel design) may be added to
support stressed regions of the dispensers, which can add strength
and integrity to the dispensers. Furthermore, any connection region
in the dispensers may also experience increased stress during use.
Accordingly, any of these such regions may include structural
features that add strength through, for example, increased
thickness and/or specifically tailored designs. In further
embodiments, the use of triangular shapes could be used to add
increased strength to any of the above described structures;
however, other designs or mechanical support features may be
used.
[0075] In some embodiments, the dispensers or one or more
components thereof, including any overpack or liner(s), may include
reinforcement features, such as but not limited to, a mesh,
fiber(s), epoxy, or resin, etc. that may be integrated or added to
the dispensers or one or more components thereof, or portions
thereof, in order to add reinforcement or strength. Such
reinforcement may assist in high pressure dispense applications, or
in applications for dispensing high viscosity contents or corrosive
contents.
[0076] In some embodiments, the dispensers may include level
sensing features or sensors. Such level sensing features or sensors
may use visual, electronic, ultrasonic, or other suitable
mechanisms for identifying, indicating, or determining the level of
the contents stored in the dispensers. For example, in one
embodiment, the dispensers or a portion thereof may be made from a
substantially translucent or transparent material that may be used
to view the level of the contents stored therein.
[0077] In further embodiments, flow metering technology may be
integrated into the dispense assembly for a direct measurement of
material being delivered from the packaging system to a down stream
process. A direct measurement of the material being delivered could
provide the end user with data which may help ensure process
repeatability or reproducibility. In one embodiment, the integrated
flow meter may provide an analog or digital readout of the material
flow. The flow meter, or other component of the system, can take
the characteristics of the material (including but not limited to
viscosity and concentration) and other flow parameters into
consideration to provide an accurate flow measurement.
Additionally, or alternatively, the integrated flow meter can be
configured to work with, and accurately measure, a specific
material stored and dispensed from the dispenser. In one
embodiment, the inlet pressure can be cycled, or adjusted, to
maintain a substantially constant outlet pressure or flow rate.
[0078] In alternative embodiments, the systems of the present
disclosure may be used for assisting in emergency situations, such
as but not limited to use by Hazardous Materials (HazMat) and
Emergency Response Teams. HazMat and Emergency Response Teams often
have to deal with unknown emergency situations in the field. After
a quick assessment of the emergency situation, the identity of the
hazard can be categorized as chemical, biological, physical,
nuclear, or other hazards. In each situation, the use of portable
dispense systems as disclosed herein, used in reverse such as with
a vacuum, could be used to locally vacuum up spilled materials and
isolate those hazards within a liner-based package for isolation,
containment, and/or destruction. Utilization of such portable
technology can alleviate concerns from the hazardous material spill
or emergency threat situation, regardless of the hazard category
being addressed. Isolation of the spilled material, within a liner,
for neutralization, destruction, and/or disposal can be achieved on
site or at a remote location depending upon the type and severity
of the hazard being addressed.
[0079] For example, in a chemical spill, an acid or base being
transported might leak into the local surroundings. By using a
portable vacuum or portable vacuum technology, such as using an
embodiment of the systems disclosed herein with a vacuum being
applied instead of pressure (e.g., dispense system used in
reverse), the acids or bases could be "sucked" into the liner of a
portable liner-based package. In some embodiments, a specific
neutralization agent may be provided within the package or liner to
neutralize the acid or base, or other chemical. Alternatively, the
acid or base or other chemical could be isolated and contained
within the liner, and transported to another location for later
neutralization away from the emergency situation.
[0080] As another example, in a biological emergency scenario, a
portable vacuum system as disclosed herein, could be used to
isolate a biological agent through suction into a liner-based
repository. The liner might contain an anti-biological agent to
kill the biological material and reduce the immediate threat
situation. Alternatively, the isolated biological agent can be
isolated and contained within the liner, and transported to another
location for later handling, away from the emergency situation,
thereby alleviating the potential for widespread destruction and
the loss of life.
[0081] As yet another example, in a nuclear accident scenario, such
as in a nuclear reactor, a radioactive spill could be isolated and
contained in a liner-based, portable vacuum system for isolation in
another location. The radioactive material, once isolated, can be
removed and treated at a remote, non-emergency location. This
approach allows increased survival rates and the ability to quickly
contain radioactive material in emergency conditions.
[0082] Accordingly, the use of a portable pump technology, modified
to provide vacuum or suction, can have significant value for these
emergency response scenarios. In one embodiment, the systems
described above may be modified for suction by replacing the
pressure source, in any of the embodiments described above, with a
vacuum source. The vacuum source may be a portable vacuum source,
and may be separate from the other components of the system or may
be an integrated component of the system.
[0083] In the foregoing description, various embodiments have been
presented for the purpose of illustration and description. They are
not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the
precise forms disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are
possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments were
chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the
principals of the present disclosure and its practical application,
and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the
various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the
particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations
are within the scope of the present disclosure as determined by the
appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth
they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.
* * * * *