U.S. patent application number 14/249887 was filed with the patent office on 2014-12-18 for dispenser.
This patent application is currently assigned to Orbel Health Limited. The applicant listed for this patent is Orbel Health Limited. Invention is credited to Robin B. K. Chilton, Graeme H. Davies, Katie L. Goodwin, Adam F. R. Sutcliffe.
Application Number | 20140369733 14/249887 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36775658 |
Filed Date | 2014-12-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140369733 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sutcliffe; Adam F. R. ; et
al. |
December 18, 2014 |
DISPENSER
Abstract
The present invention relates to a dispenser for a hand
treatment product. The dispenser (1) comprises an applicator (3), a
hand treatment product storage reservoir (5) in fluid communication
with the applicator (3), and a restraining means (7) for
restraining the dispenser to a support surface, wherein, in use,
when a hand is moved across the applicator (3), hand treatment
product is applied to the hand.
Inventors: |
Sutcliffe; Adam F. R.;
(London, GB) ; Chilton; Robin B. K.; (Wan Chai,
HK) ; Davies; Graeme H.; (London, GB) ;
Goodwin; Katie L.; (London, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Orbel Health Limited |
London |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
Orbel Health Limited
London
GB
|
Family ID: |
36775658 |
Appl. No.: |
14/249887 |
Filed: |
April 10, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12308381 |
Dec 12, 2008 |
8714853 |
|
|
PCT/GB2007/002225 |
Jun 14, 2007 |
|
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|
14249887 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
401/6 ; 15/210.1;
604/310 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 2005/002 20130101;
A45F 5/02 20130101; A45D 2034/002 20130101; A61M 35/003 20130101;
A45D 34/041 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
401/6 ; 15/210.1;
604/310 |
International
Class: |
A45D 34/04 20060101
A45D034/04; A61M 35/00 20060101 A61M035/00; A45F 5/02 20060101
A45F005/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 14, 2006 |
GB |
0611809.5 |
Claims
1-19. (canceled)
20. A treatment product dispenser, the dispenser comprising: an
applicator for dispensing the treatment product onto a body part of
a user, a reservoir in fluid communication with the applicator, the
reservoir configured to store the treatment product and deliver the
treatment product to the applicator, and a mount configured to
attach the dispenser to a support surface during use, wherein
engagement of the body part of the user with the applicator causes
the applicator to dispense the treatment product onto the body part
of the user, and wherein the dispenser remains substantially
stationary during use relative to the body part of the user.
21. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the applicator comprises a
roller ball.
22. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the applicator comprises a
plurality of roller balls.
23. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the body part of the user is
a hand.
24. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the reservoir is deformable
by the user during use of the dispenser to pressurize the
reservoir.
25. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the mount is a clip.
26. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the mount is a band.
27. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the mount is a strap.
28. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the support surface is an
article of clothing of the user.
29. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the support surface is a
fixed location away from the user.
30. The dispenser of claim 21, wherein the roller ball comprises
surface deformations.
31. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein engagement of the body part
of the user with the applicator comprises swiping the body part of
the user across the applicator.
32. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein engagement of the body part
of the user with the applicator comprises the body part of the user
pressing the applicator.
33. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein engagement of the body part
of the user with the applicator comprises applying pressure to the
applicator.
34. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the dispenser is
disposable.
35. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the reservoir is
refillable.
36. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the reservoir is
replaceable.
37. The dispenser of claim 20, further comprising a removable cover
for the applicator.
38. The dispenser of claim 20, further comprising a scrubbing
device.
39. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the treatment product
comprises at least one of a barrier cream, a moisturizer, a
cleanser, a detergent, a disinfectant, an antiseptic, or a
pharmaceutically active agent.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 12/308,381, filed Dec. 12, 2008, which is the U.S. national
stage of PCT/GB2007/002225, filed Jun. 14, 2007, which claims
priority to GB 0611809.5, filed Jun. 14, 2006, the contents of each
of which are incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a dispenser, and
particularly, but not exclusively, to a dispenser for a hand
treatment product.
[0004] 2. The Prior Art
[0005] In order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, it is
required that medical staff cleanse their hands between dealing
with separate patients. This may result in medical staff having to
cleanse their hands many tens of times in a single working day.
[0006] Known cleansing product dispensers do not lend themselves to
such frequent use. Typical dispensers are of the plunger type and
require two-handed operation. One hand must be used to hold the
reservoir of cleansing product while the other hand operates the
plunger in order to dispense the cleaning product. Such operation
may not always be convenient for staff already using one of their
hands. Furthermore, such operation is relatively time consuming.
These difficulties can discourage staff from cleansing their hands
as often as they should, which may contribute to the spread of
infection, such as MRSA.
[0007] Consequently, there is a need for a dispenser that can be
operated single handedly to quickly dispense a cleanser.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention provides a dispenser for dispensing a
treatment product on to a hand, the dispenser comprising an
applicator, and a treatment product storage reservoir in fluid
communication with the applicator, wherein, in use, when a hand is
moved across the applicator, treatment product is applied to the
hand.
[0009] Ideally, the treatment product is a hand treatment
product.
[0010] Ideally, the dispenser further comprises a restraining means
for restraining the dispenser to a support surface.
[0011] The present invention is advantageous because it enables a
hand treatment product to be applied to a hand without having to
utilize another hand to apply it. In the present invention the
support surface may be the body of a person, a wall, table or any
other suitable surface.
[0012] The dispenser is capable of being operated using one hand in
order to dispense the treatment product on to that hand. The
dispenser is particularly suitable for use in medical environments,
for example for staff to carry about their person. However, it
could be used in many other areas, for example, in domestic
environments such as the kitchen, workshop or garden or in
commercial environments such as machine shops or automotive
garages.
[0013] It is envisaged that the hand treatment product may also be
suitable for treatment of skin in general and that the user may
apply it with their hand to the skin on other parts of their body.
For example, once the hand treatment product has been dispensed on
to a user's hand, it could be applied to the user's arm.
[0014] Preferably, the applicator comprises at least one roller to
apply the hand treatment product. The roller may be in the shape of
a ball, for example, it may be spherical. Alternatively, the roller
may be cylindrical.
[0015] The applicator may comprise one or more nozzles or brushes
or a porous membrane or any other means capable of controllably
applying the hand treatment product to a user's hand as the hand is
moved across the applicator.
[0016] The hand treatment product may be applied directly to the
applicator, e.g. the applicator may be partially immersed in the
hand treatment product reservoir, or the hand treatment product may
be applied indirectly to the applicator, e.g. the hand treatment
product may be applied to the applicator via a porous medium such
as a sponge. An example of the latter case is a sponge which may be
provided within the reservoir such that when the level of hand
treatment product falls below the level of the rollers the rollers
will still be supplied with hand treatment product by virtue of the
wicking effect of the sponge.
[0017] Preferably, the restraining means is a clip suitable for
attaching the dispenser to a user, for example a spring clip of a
lanyard. Alternatively, or additionally, the restraining means may
be suitable for attaching the dispenser to a wall or other surface,
or may be in the form of a gripping surface, for example a rubber
base. If the dispenser is attached to a wall or other surface, it
may be suitable for communal use.
[0018] Preferably, the dispenser is disposable. Alternatively, the
reservoir may be refillable or replaceable. For example, the
dispenser may be disposed of in its entirety, the reservoir may be
refilled with hand treatment product, or the restraining means
and/or the applicator may be retained and the reservoir
replaced.
[0019] In one embodiment, the dispenser may have a cover. It is
envisaged that the cover would be applied to the dispenser when it
is not in use. The cover may be, for example, a hinged clam shell
type or a removable fascia.
[0020] Preferably, the dispenser is color coded to indicate for
example, the nature of the hand treatment product in the reservoir,
the zone of use, its ownership, or to aid association.
Alternatively, the dispenser may be at least partially transparent
or translucent and the hand treatment product may be color
coded.
[0021] Preferably, the dispenser may be provided with means to
indicate the level of hand treatment product in the reservoir. For
example, the reservoir may be transparent or translucent, either
entirely or in part, so that the user can see the fluid level
within it.
[0022] In certain embodiments, the reservoir may be pressurized in
order to feed hand treatment product to the applicator. This may be
by means of internal gas pressure, a fixed mechanical device such
as a spring and piston arrangement or by means of a user applied
pressure. For example, the reservoir may be manufactured from a
resiliently deformable material wherein pressure applied by the
user to the reservoir, for example by pressing the reservoir
against their body, feeds hand treatment product to the applicator.
Alternatively, hand treatment product may be fed to the applicator
by gravity or capillary action.
[0023] The dispenser may be provided with a scrubbing device, for
example a brush, in order to aid with the cleansing of the user's
hands. The scrubbing device may be detachable and/or
disposable.
[0024] The dispenser may be combined with a form of identification,
for example a Radio Frequency Identification tag (RFID) or other
identification card.
[0025] The dispenser may be provided with means to visually and/or
audibly remind the user to use the dispenser and/or to indicate to
a user that the dispenser has been used.
[0026] The dispenser may be provided with means to enable it to
glow, in order to facilitate use where ambient light levels are
low.
[0027] The hand treatment product may be a barrier cream or a
moisturizer.
[0028] Alternatively, the hand treatment product may be a
cleanser.
[0029] The cleanser may be a detergent, for example a soap, or a
product containing a detergent, for example a proprietary hand
cleanser such a Swarfega.RTM..
[0030] The cleanser may be a disinfectant.
[0031] The cleanser may be an antiseptic.
[0032] The hand treatment product may contain a pharmaceutically
active agent.
[0033] Preferably, the hand treatment product is a liquid.
Alternatively, the hand treatment product may be a semi-solid, for
example a gel, or it may be a solid. In the latter case a liquid
may be obtained from the sold by the action of the applicator. For
example, in the case of a roller ball applicator the rotation of
the rollers against the solid cleanser will cause the cleanser to
liquefy.
[0034] The hand treatment product may be an alcohol gel.
[0035] The dispenser may comprise a fluid channel for guiding
treatment product to the applicator from the reservoir. A one-way
valve may be provided to control fluid flow in the fluid channel.
The one-way valve may allow fluid to flow from the reservoir, but
prevent fluid to flow from the channel into the reservoir. The
one-way valve may be positioned so that, in ordinary use of the
dispenser, said one-way valve is positioned at a lower location
than the applicator. A second one-way valve may be provided in the
fluid channel so as to allow fluid to flow out of the channel and
into the reservoir. The second valve is ideally located downstream
of the first one-way valve and preferable downstream of the
applicator. A wicking element may be provided in the fluid channel.
The wicking element is ideally of a sponge material.
[0036] The reservoir may comprise a bulbous shaped portion located
on an opposite side of the dispenser to the applicator. The bulbous
shaped portion is ideally of a resiliently deformable material.
Preferably, the bulbous shaped portion is of an elastically
deformable material.
[0037] Preferably, the applicator comprises a plurality of rollers,
the size and/or spacing of said rollers varying across the surface
of the applicator.
[0038] Ideally, the surface of each roller is provided with an
indentation for receiving and transporting treatment product from
the reservoir.
[0039] The reservoir may be detachable from the remainder of the
dispenser. The reservoir may comprise one or more ports for
allowing fluid communication with the applicator. Means may be
provide for opening said ports in response to the reservoir being
secured to the remainder of the dispenser.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described
with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0041] FIG. 1 is a front view of a first dispenser according to the
present invention;
[0042] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the first dispenser of
the present invention shown in FIG. 1;
[0043] FIG. 3 is a side view of the first dispenser;
[0044] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 1
clipped to the pocket of a user;
[0045] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the dispenser of
FIG. 1 (without an attachment clip);
[0046] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional side view of a second dispenser,
having an upper reservoir, according to the present invention;
[0047] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of the second
dispenser shown in FIG. 6 modified so as to incorporate a wicking
element;
[0048] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of a fourth dispenser,
having a lower reservoir and a single one-way valve, according to
the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of a fifth dispenser,
having a lower reservoir and a double one-way valve, according to
the present invention;
[0050] FIGS. 10-15 each show different applicator configurations
having different roller sizes and arrangements for use as an
alternative to the applicator configuration shown in FIG. 1;
[0051] FIGS. 16 and 17 are side views of an alternative roller race
which allows a passage of liquid product without any four roller
rotations;
[0052] FIGS. 18 and 19 are cross-sectional side views of a roller
race of a first dispenser shown in FIGS. 1-4;
[0053] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a roller race as shown on
FIGS. 16 and 17;
[0054] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a roller race of the
first dispenser wherein the dimensions and geometry thereof are
indicated;
[0055] FIGS. 22-24 are perspective views of different rollers;
[0056] FIGS. 25 and 26 are cross-sectional views of different
rollers;
[0057] FIG. 27 shows a tamper evident seal seemingly closing an
inlet port to the reservoir of a dispenser according to the present
invention;
[0058] FIG. 28 shows the tamper evident seal of FIG. 27 having
being folded about a hinge so as to open the inlet to the dispenser
reservoir;
[0059] FIG. 29 shows the inlet to a dispenser reservoir sealed by
means of a removable seal and a tamper evidence closure;
[0060] FIGS. 30 and 31 show an inlet of a dispenser reservoir
sealed with a self-sealing membrane and being opened by means of a
probe/device through which replacement liquid or product may be
injected;
[0061] FIG. 32 shows an inlet of a dispenser reservoir sealed by
means of a hinged flap retained in a closed position by means of a
clip;
[0062] FIG. 33 shows the sealing element of FIG. 32 rotated about
said hinge so as to open the reservoir inlet;
[0063] FIGS. 34 and 35 each show schematic perspective views of a
removable reservoir detached and separated from a remainder of a
dispenser (partly shown);
[0064] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a further dispenser
according to the present invention which is worn by a user about
the wrist;
[0065] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a yet further dispenser
according to the present invention which is mounted to a lanyard;
and,
[0066] FIG. 38 is a table illustrating the feasibility of various
roller race geometries.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0067] Referring to FIG. 1, a first dispenser 1 is shown to include
an applicator 3, a cover 3a, a reservoir 5 containing an alcohol
gel cleanser 6, a pressurizing element 5a, a level indicating
element 5b, a scrubbing element 5c, and an attachment clip 7. The
applicator 3 is located on a wall of the reservoir 5 such that
cleanser from the reservoir is able to pass from the reservoir to
the external surface of the applicator 3 and then to the hand 8 of
a user (with cover 3a removed), for example a medical staff member
(see FIG. 4). The clip 7 is provided on the reservoir 5 so that, in
use, the dispenser can be clipped to the user.
[0068] The applicator 3 comprises eight spherical roller balls 9
held within races 11. The roller balls 9 project inwardly through
the front wall of the reservoir 5 so that at least a part of the
surface of each roller ball 9 is in contact with the cleanser held
therein (see FIG. 5).
[0069] In order to dispense cleanser, after removing cover 3a, the
user moves their hand across the roller balls 9, wherein the roller
balls 9 rotate. The internal cleanser coated surfaces of the roller
balls then move outside the reservoir 5 and apply cleanser to the
user's hand. Continued rotation of the roller balls 9 applies
further cleanser to be applied to the user's hand in a controllable
manner.
[0070] The clip 7 is attached to the top of the reservoir 5 and is
hinged thereto by hinge 13. The clip 7 is located relative to the
back wall of the reservoir 5 so that when the dispenser 1 is
clipped to a user, for example to their belt or pocket 14, the
roller balls 9 face outwardly. It is then possible for the user to
single-handedly apply cleanser to their hands (see FIG. 4).
[0071] The shape/configuration of the applicator is specifically
designed to ensure that as many rollers/balls as possible are kept
in contact with the hand during use. In this regard, the
shape/profile of the front face of the applicator is approximated
by a Tanh (hyperbolic Tangent) curve.
[0072] Reservoir
[0073] General Configurations
[0074] There are three general reservoir configurations
contemplated. In the first dispenser 1, the reservoir 5 is located
directly behind the rollers/balls 9 (see FIGS. 1 to 5). In this
case, the body of the dispenser 1 is such that it may be
resiliently deformed by the user to thereby reduce the reservoir
volume. Any liquid product pooling in the bottom of the reservoir 5
is then pushed upwards so as to cover the back of the rollers/balls
9. However, the following two configurations are also
contemplated
[0075] 1. Upper reservoir (see FIGS. 6 and 7)--Product is stored at
or near the top of the device and gravity causes it to flow down
behind the rollers/balls.
[0076] 2. Lower reservoir (see FIG. 8)--Product is stored at or
near the bottom of the device and the force applied by the hand
moving down the face causes the reservoir to be resilient deformed
(compressed) so that product is pushed up behind the rollers/balls.
This option may require one or more one-way valves to hold the
liquid behind the rollers and prevent it from flowing back down
into the reservoir. A single one-way valve is shown in FIG. 8.
[0077] Any one of these configurations may incorporate a wicking
element located in the reservoir. Ideally, the wicking element
abuts the rollers 9 so as to direct liquid product onto the
rollers. The wicking element makes use of capillary action to
transport liquid product within the reservoir. In FIG. 7, a wicking
element is provided as a sponge or open cell foam. Any one of the
three configurations may include one or more one-way valves to hold
the liquid behind the rollers. For example, FIG. 9 shows a
reservoir located directly behind the rollers/balls 9 (as in FIGS.
1 to 5) but with a channel 116 directing liquid product on to the
back of the rollers, wherein the channel is provided with a one-way
inlet valve 118 (allowing flow only into the channel) and a one-way
outlet valve 120 (allowing flow only out of the channel back into
the reservoir).
[0078] Replaceable
[0079] With the upper and lower reservoir configurations, it is
possible to conveniently design the dispenser so that the
reservoirs can be replaced once empty (see FIGS. 34 and 35). This
provides a number of benefits:
[0080] 1. Reduced cost of use for the customer.
[0081] 2. Ease of recycling, whether immediately (re-use) or by a
third party.
[0082] 3. Increased flexibility, the same dispenser can be
configured to deliver whichever product is required.
[0083] 4. Reduced waste.
[0084] 5. The effective life of a dispenser is increased.
[0085] The removable reservoir 380 of FIG. 34 comprises two
frangible seals 382, 384 (and the reservoir 381 of FIG. 35
comprises just one frangible seal 382). Each seal 382, 384 is
broken by an associated protrusion 388 on the dispenser body 386,
387 when the reservoir is mated with said body. In this way, fluid
communication between the reservoir and the rollers is provided,
even though the reservoir is sealed prior to replacement. The
removable reservoir 380, 381 is secured in the mating position with
the dispenser body 386, 387 by suitable means, for example, a
resilient clip, and more specifically, by means of a releasable
hooked hinge arrangement 389 at one end of the reservoir and
dispenser body, and a resilient clip arrangement 390 at the other
end thereof. The clip may comprise a hook on the dispenser body for
hooking about the edge of the reservoir.
[0086] Refillable
[0087] The ability to replace the reservoirs means that the
dispensers are effectively refillable. However, even without a
replaceable reservoir, the dispenser may incorporate one or more of
the following features to allow the reservoir to be refilled:
[0088] 1. Self-sealing membrane 370 (see FIGS. 30 and 31). A
self-sealing membrane material is placed on the back of the
dispenser. Such a mechanism typically consists of a hole 371 within
a flexible resilient plastics material that is closed under normal
use. By pushing a device/probe 372 into the hole, the membrane is
stretched and the hole opens. Liquid can then be injected into the
reservoir, the device removed and the elastic nature of the
membrane causes the hole to seal.
[0089] 2. One-way valve (not shown). A one-way valve may be added.
This allows product into the reservoir but not out of the
reservoir. In this case, the refilling device and the one-way valve
may have a specific design making it difficult, if not impossible,
for foreign liquids to be imparted into the reservoir.
[0090] 3. Screw top (see FIG. 29). A screw closure/top 375 of a
suitable size and profile may be provided to seal an inlet to the
reservoir. This would enable rapid refilling via the inlet, provide
additional tamper security and also offer the high resistance to
failure under pressure during use.
[0091] 4. Zip-lock (not shown). Here the term zip-lock refers to
crimp lock self-sealing devices, such as those typically used on
freezer bags. This mechanism could be molded directly into the body
of the device, thus reducing costs. A more complex version of the
crimp lock is one which contains a slider which forces the sides to
seal. This type of mechanism would probably not be used as it
doesn't fully seal due to the sides being separated directly
under/around the slider.
[0092] 5. Clip (see FIGS. 32 and 33).
[0093] 6. Hook and loop fastener, or hook and hook fastener (not
shown). A simple hook and loop or hook and hook system may be used.
The loop/hook, or loops/hooks, could be within the end of a flap
that, when unhooked, is able to be opened to access the
reservoir.
[0094] 7. Open hole (not shown). An open hole could be added which
allows direct access into the reservoir.
[0095] Tamper Proofing
[0096] Both options for refilling and replacing the reservoir
require the ability to secure the contents from tampering.
[0097] Tamper proofing a replaceable reservoir may be achieved with
one or more of the following features:
[0098] 1. The replaceable reservoir may have a security seal heat
bonded to the opening. This seal is removed in order to allow the
reservoir to be connected to the body of the dispenser. Once
removed, the seal cannot be replaced. This seal, which might be a
foil cover, also leaks and tears if someone tried to inject through
it into the reservoir.
[0099] 2. The dispenser may be provided with means for preventing
access to the fluid ways in the body of the dispenser when the
reservoir is removed.
[0100] Similarly, the reservoir may be provided with means for
prevent access to the interior thereof when refilled. In each case,
said means may operate so as to allow access in response to the
reservoir being secured back into position on the dispenser body.
Thus, fluid communication between the rollers and the reservoir is
achieved in response to replacement of the reservoir. Such a device
might comprise a spring loaded sliding door on each of the
dispenser body and reservoir so as to prevent said access, wherein
each door is opened when the reservoir mates with the dispenser
body by means of, for example, a cam arrangement (not shown). Each
sliding closes under bias of the spring when the reservoir is
removed.
[0101] Tamper proofing a refillable reservoir may be achieved with
one or more of the following features:
[0102] 1. A sticker/cover 377 may be placed over the filling inlet
port when the refill is completed (see FIGS. 27 to 29). This
sticker/cover is such that, if it is removed, then it could not be
replaced. It would also show signs of being punctured. Such a
sticker/cover may be a membrane which is heat sealed into place. It
may also be stuck in place using a contact adhesive layer.
[0103] 2. In the case of the screw closure 375, the design of the
closure may include a locking system wherein a frangible element of
the closure is visibly damaged if the seal made by the closure is
broken e.g. if the closure is rotated/unscrewed either partially or
fully.
[0104] 3. A colored contact adhesive layer, or a heat sensitive
adhesive layer, may be used (in the case of a zip-lock or a clip
for example). Tampering with the seal would cause the color of the
adhesive to become visible and for the damage to become very
obvious to the casual observer (see FIGS. 27 and 28).
[0105] Applicator
[0106] Different configurations of applicator 3 are shown in FIGS.
10 to 15. The particular configuration (roller/ball size and
placement) will be selected depending on given
requirements/circumstance, for example, depending on liquid product
viscosity and user hand size. FIGS. 10 to 15 indicate the
particular use to which the illustrated configuration is most
suited. These uses are categorized with reference to Male/Female
hand sizes and Low/Medium/High viscosities. A high liquid viscosity
requires (a) more force to shear it, and (b) a large clearance
between race and ball. As a result, a larger roller/ball is
required. The opposite would be true for a low viscosity liquid,
which will require a smaller roller.
[0107] In hospitals, with predominately female users, it is
anticipated that a delivery of 1 ml to 1.5 ml of product will be
required on each use of the dispenser. Ideally, this amount of
product will be dispensed in one stroke (i.e. in one pass of the
hand over the applicator). In order to achieve this, the applicator
preferably comprises a cluster of eight 10 mm diameter
rollers/balls.
[0108] The central roller may also be larger than the other rollers
(see FIG. 10) so as to maximize use of the dispenser face and so as
to provide a palm-filler.
[0109] In food preparation, with a mixed workforce, the method of
use of the dispenser may vary substantially between users. Users
may find that they tend to use a double swipe, and they may have
significantly different hand sizes and require different doses. As
a result, the rollers should be arranged differently than described
above in relation to hospitals. For example, roller size may be
based on the average of the male/female mix and this may result in
rollers of a comparatively large size and a greater size range
within a given applicator (see FIGS. 11 to 14).
[0110] In workshops and on building sites where barrier creams may
be required, the higher viscosity requires a very large clearance
with large rollers/balls. Also, in order to accommodate the larger
male hand size/width, the dispenser may be larger as a whole and/or
the rollers of the applicator may be spaced from one another to a
greater extent.
[0111] A cross-sectional side view of the standard roller 9 and
roller race 11 of the first dispenser shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 is
shown in FIG. 21. Ideally, the clearance (c) between a roller 9 and
its associated roller race 11 is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.24 mm.
The roller diameter (d) is ideally from 5 mm to 15 mm. The possible
movement of such a roller 9 within its race 11 is illustrated in
FIGS. 18 and 19.
[0112] The feasibility of various roller race geometries is
summarized in FIG. 38. The table in FIG. 38 illustrates the
clearance required to deliver an amount of gel based on the
following assumptions:
[0113] 1. Perfect volumetric displacement occurs
[0114] 2. The effectiveness of the clearance is not a function of
the radius of the ball
[0115] 3. pi=3.141593
[0116] 4. Volume dispensed (mm.sup.3)=1000
[0117] 5. Useful contact area=75%
[0118] 6. Length of stroke (mm)=100
[0119] Roller/race clearances within the following ranges produce
the following results:
TABLE-US-00001 Upper (mm) Lower (mm) Result 30 0.5 Potentially too
much clearance for this to work 0.5 0.25 May work with this amount
of clearance 0.25 0.08 Will work with this amount of clearance 0.08
0 Potentially not enough clearance for this to work
[0120] It will be understood that pressure within the reservoir
(generated by compressing the reservoir by pressing on the face of
the dispenser) does not force liquid product out of the container,
as flow is choked around the roller balls. Additional pressure
makes no difference to the amount of liquid dispensed. Instead, the
pressure applied is used to force liquid product into the area
around the rollers.
[0121] Nevertheless, in contrast, a modified roller race 211 is
shown in FIGS. 16, 17 and 20. This modified roller race 211 has
material removed so as to provide a plurality of circumferentially
spaced upstanding race elements 213. The arrangement is such that
the roller and race combination acts as a pressure responsive
valve.
[0122] In this respect, if pressure is sufficiently great within
the reservoir, then the roller is moved within the race and product
is able to flow between said upstanding race elements 213 and
thereby exit the reservoir in addition to doing so by means of
roller rotation. In other words, if the reservoir pressure is
sufficient, then product may exit the reservoir through the roller
race 211 without the need for the roller 9 to rotate. This prevents
potential damage to the reservoir due to high internal
pressures.
[0123] Roller Composition
[0124] The rollers/balls may be made of different materials to
support the transfer of fluids and help in differentiating the
contents. These compositions might include:
[0125] 1. Solid core with a porous shell may be used to transfer a
greater quantity of product.
[0126] 2. Thermochromic dye may be used to tell the user when the
liquid is within its effective operation temperature. This would be
used for liquids that denature or breakdown above a certain
temperature. It could also be used if a temperature dependant
solid, or semi-solid, is used instead of a liquid. Furthermore, it
could be an indication of bacteria growth (i.e. that the
temperature at which bacteria grows has been achieved), thus
encouraging users to clean their hands.
[0127] 3. Thermal expansion. In a case where the contents to be
dispensed becomes inactive above a certain temperature, the balls
could be made from a material which expands to prevent dispensing
above that temperature.
[0128] 4. Fragrance additives. These may be added to the reservoir
contents or to the material making up the roller/ball. This would
be done to stimulate the reward mechanism on use.
[0129] 5. The rollers may be either transparent and/or hollow to
enhance the aesthetics of the dispenser design.
[0130] 6. Color may be used to enhance the design or to signify
what type of product is contained within in the device.
[0131] 7. A product reactive surface such a hygroscopic dye may be
used to indicate when the balls have fluid on them and thus when
they are operating efficiently.
[0132] 8. A deformable material, such as a sponge, may be used to
help pump the contents from the reservoir as well as transmit it
via rolling. The roller itself may be of a sponge material.
[0133] 9. Materials. The rollers/balls may have a material surface
to improve the feel and make them appear softer.
[0134] Roller Surface
[0135] A number of preferred surface arrangements for the
rollers/balls are shown in FIGS. 22 to 26 of the accompanying
drawings. All of these are designed to either increase the ability
of the dispenser to deliver product from the reservoir or to
enhance the feel of the device. Different surfaces include:
[0136] 1. Dimples such as those on a golf ball. These dimples
increase the volume able to be dispensed for a given race
clearance. This surface may be used for low viscosity liquids to
reduce leakage.
[0137] 2. Dimples/indentations/groves of different shapes e.g.
round dimples 230 (see FIG. 22), square/rectangular dimples 232
(see FIG. 23), curved groove lines 234 (see FIG. 24). These
dimples/indentations/groves may be of different depths and all be
provided on the same roller.
[0138] 3. Fencing 236 (see FIG. 236), where the majority of the
surface is below the outer limits, could be used for high viscosity
liquids or solids to aid removal from the reservoir. This type of
surface would also improve grip on the balls. This type of surface
could be used to deliver contents that has a particulate component
e.g. Swarfega.
[0139] 4. A roughened surface wherein a high density of very small
dimples 238 is provided (see FIG. 25). This could be used to aid
grip between the roller and the user's hand, to receive and deliver
the reservoir contents, and to act as an abrasive on the hand of
the user, thus potentially aiding cleaning
[0140] Materials
[0141] The dispenser 1 is manufactured from plastics materials. The
alternatives or considerations are noted:
[0142] 1. Polygiene--Polygiene employs ionic silver to inhibit the
growth of micro-organisms. This can be added to the plastics
material of the dispenser so as to make it more effective at
killing bacteria.
[0143] 2. Stainless steel--The rollers/balls may be made from
stainless steel.
[0144] 3. Soft touch--Soft Touch materials may be used on the body
to make it more pleasing to use.
[0145] 4. Transparent/Opaque/Translucent--The materials might be
transparent or opaque/translucent to allow the user to see the
product to be dispensed and internal workings of the dispenser.
[0146] 5. Color--Body, balls and liquid could have colors
associated with them for identification of use, type, zoning
etc.
[0147] 6. Fabric--The body of the dispenser may be provided with a
fabric coating. The back of the dispenser may have a fabric surface
to prevent it rubbing the user.
[0148] 7. Branding/Sponsorship--The dispenser may be provided with
a space for receiving branding and sponsorship logos.
[0149] Clips
[0150] An important part of the design is the way in which it is
held on or about the user. This is such as to encourage the user to
clasp or otherwise use the dispenser. There are a number of ways in
which a dispenser according to the present invention may be
mounted:
[0151] 1. Location. The device may be located anywhere on or about
the user so to enable it to be accessed as desired. It can also be
mounted to be a fixed location such as a kitchen or bathroom work
surface, a cash register, a workstation etc.
[0152] 2. Swinging clip. The clip is designed to allow the
dispenser to move freely while still sitting with the rollers
facing outwards. A walking motion of the user causes the device to
bounce against the user and this results in a tendency for the user
to clasp the dispenser. This clasping action will assist in
directing fluid to the rollers and dispensing an amount of liquid.
The swinging clip is important in some design cases as it ensures
that the device remains vertical wherever possible. This aids the
mechanism of transfer.
[0153] 3. Fixed stiff resilient clip, similar to that typically
provide on a pen. This would be used to securely mount the device
on a person or object so that it does not move or dangle if
inclined. This clip type might be used on a dispenser intended for
use in the home.
[0154] 4. Straps. Elasticised straps with a tie or hook/loop
fastener elements may be used to allow the device to be mounted
around a wrist or other objects.
[0155] 5. Hook and loop backing The device may have a hook and loop
or hook to hook type of backing to allow it to be attached to
suitable hook and loop or hook to hook type mounting points e.g. at
the side of a trolley, desk, monitor, car dashboard etc.
[0156] 6. Lanyard. A lanyard may be used to attach the device
around a user's neck or hang the device from an object e.g. a door
handle, a coat hook etc.
[0157] 7. Magnet. A magnet may be incorporated into the back of the
device to enable it to be attached to steel surfaces e.g. fridge
doors, machinery etc.
[0158] Dispenser Configurations
[0159] There are also a number of product variants contemplated (in
addition to the reservoir location) which include:
[0160] 1. A device that can be worn on the wrist or arm.
[0161] In such a device, the dispenser body may form a closed loop
(i.e. a band) for locating about a user's wrist and the applicator
is provided on the outer curved surface of the loop (see FIG.
36).
[0162] 2. A double handed, or clasped, device that would be worn
around the neck. This device may be the same as the first dispenser
other than in that it is provided with rollers on the reverse side
of the body as well as on the front side thereof. Alternatively,
the rollers may be provided on the outer curved surface of a
part-cylindrical body (see FIG. 37).
[0163] The present invention is not limited to the specific
embodiment described above. Alternative arrangements and suitable
materials will be apparent to a reader skilled in the art.
* * * * *