GB2394711A

GB2394711A - Container system for storage and mixing of multiple components

Info

Publication number: GB2394711A
Application number: GB0322476A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Konrad Henry Parlour
Original assignee: SEALANTS INTERNAT Ltd
Current assignee: SEALANTS INTERNAT Ltd
Priority date: 2002-10-03
Filing date: 2003-09-25
Publication date: 2004-05-05
Also published as: WO2004031051A1; GB0322476D0; AU2003269182A1

Abstract

A container system for the storage and mixing of a multiple component composition comprises a first storage tube (1) and a sealed storage tube (6). The first tube (1) has a nozzle (2) with an internal thread (12), into which an externally-threaded nozzle (8) of the second tube (6) is inserted. A perforator (13, 19. 23, Fig.2), located within the nozzle (2) of the first tube (1), breaches a seal (10) across the nozzle (8) of the second tube (6) as it is inserted. Each tube (1, 6) holds one component (17, 18) of the multiple component composition which may be transferred to a single tube (1) and mixed entirely within the container system. The container system is of particular use for multiple-component reactive systems, such as two-pack sealants and adhesives, but is also useful for other compositions having hazardous components, for mixing sterile solutions and for mixing particular solids with liquids.

Description

239471 1

TUBE CONTAINER SYSTEM

The present invention relates to a container system in which each component of a multiple component system may be stored separately and in which the components may be mixed prior to use. More particularly, but not exclusively, it relates to a container system allowing safe dispensing and mixing of two components, of which at least one is potentially hazardous, or is a sensitive or sterile component.

Many useful materials are supplied as two or more separate components, which react together on mixing to give the materials required. These are generally known as multiple component reactive systems. leer example, many epoxy type adhesives and silicone-based sealants need to be mixed with an accelerant/curing agent before use. Once mixed, the product is usable for no more than ten or fifteen minutes before it sets. Other products requiring mixing immediately before use include many hair treatment or colour products. it is usually desirable to mix the components in as precise proportion, one to the other, as possible, for optimum performance. In many cases, at least one component must be stored in a

hermetically scaled container, for example because it is moisture or air sensitive, or because it is a hazardous material until it has reacted with other components of the system.

The components can be supplied in separate containers, for example in plastics or metal tubes with a screw-capped nozzle, optionally with a perforatable seal across the nozzle. Each component can then be dispensed from its respective tube into a mixing vessel or on to a mixing surface, and the components can then be blended together. Ilowever, there is a risk of spillage, particularly with components of low viscosity. This may be difficult to clear up, can easily lead to incorrect proportions of the components being dispensed and reacted together, and may even constitute a health and safety hazard.

:e À. There arc other multiple component systems that require separate storage of the components, possibly in scaled containers, and that are mixed only immediately before use. For example, :.:::.

a liquid concentrate may require accurate dilution with a specific diluent before use. A solid component may need to be dissolved in a specific solvent before use - one example is a À À....:

granular pharmaceutical preparation needing to be dissolved in a set amount of sterile aqueous electrolyte before oral or intravenous administration to a patient. Other systems comprise particulate solids which are mixed into liquid components before use, such as reinforcing glass l'ibres being mixed into a liquid resin composition. In each case, there are potential problems associated with dispensing and mixing these components accurately and safely in the open. The term "multiple component system" will therefore be used herein to cover all such systems, whether reactive or not, which involve the combination of two or more separately stored components to produce a composition for use.

There is thus a need for a container system which allows the separate storage of two or more components of such a system until use is required, whereupon it allows the components to be mixed safely, tidily, rapidly and accurately. Particularly in the case of moisture or air sensitive or volatile components, it would he beneficial if they could be mixed with minimal or no contact with the open air.

It is hence an object of the present invention to provide a container system obviating the above disadvantages and providing the above benefits, and a method for use of such a container system. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a container usable in conjunction with existing containers to form such a system.

:. À::. According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a container system for the storage and mixing ol a multiple component system, comprising first storage means À À. À.:..'

provided with first nozzle means and second storage means provided with second nozzle means having sealing means extending thereacross, wherein said first and second nozzle À means are of differing dimensions, a larger of said nozzle means being adapted to receive a smaller of said nozzle means into an interior thereof, and the first nozzle means is provided with means to perforate the sealing means of the second nozzle means.

Preferably, the perforating means of the first nozzle means is adapted to contact operatively the sealing means of the second nozzle means during said reception of the smaller said nozzle means into the larger said nozzle means.

Advantageously, each said storage means comprises a flexible hollow tube provided with respective nozzle means at a first end thereof and closed at a second end remote trom the first. Each said nozzle means may be generally cylindrical, and the smaller said nozzle means may be receivable substantially coaxially within the larger said nozzle means.

The smaller said nozzle means may be provided on an external surface thereof with a screw thread, and the interior of the larger said nozzle means may be correspondingly threaded to receive the smaller said nozzle means engagingly therein.

À À . Preferably, the perforating means comprises a body having passage means therethrough and extending into an interior of the first nozzle means from an inner end thereof.

:.:::.

Alternatively, a solid perforating means may co-operate with passage means adjacent thereto. '.

The solid perforating means may comprise a plurality of radially extending elements defining said passage means therebctween.

The solid perforating means may comprise an elongate body extending generally axially of the first nozzle means.

The second storage means may comprise material, such as a metal, impervious to moisture and/or air.

The first storage means is preferably of greater internal volume than the second storage means, optionally at least twice the internal volume.

Each nozzle means may be provided on an external surface thereof with means to receive a protective cap or closure therefor, such as a screw thread or detent means, to receive a screw cap closure or press-cap closure, respectively.

One said storage means, optionally the first, may be provided with dispensing means, separate from its respective nozzle means and so adapted that a mixed contents of the container system may selectively be delivered therethrough.

:'.e I. ' The dispensing means may comprise applicator means, adapted for the application ol said mixed contents to a preselected substrate. À The dispensing means may be adapted to be connected to a preselected additional delivery À À...: system, for example an intravenous drip.

Material can thus be dispensed from the container system without separating the storage means one from the other.

In a first, preferred embodiment, the first nozzle means is larger than the second nozzle means, and is adapted to receive the second nozzle means into its interior.

The perforating means of the first nozzle means may then extend substantially concentrically within the interior thereof.

In a second embodiment, the second nozzle means is larger than the first nozzle means, and is adapted to receive the first nozzle means into its interior.

The perforating means of the first nozzle means may then extend substantially axially outwardly from an outer end thereof.

In either embodiment, the first storage means may comprise a nozzle portion mountable thereto, the nozzle portion comprising said first nozzle means and said perforating means.

Preferably, said nozzle portion is formed separately from a remainder of the first storage À À À.. means. The first storage means may be provided with a hollow connecting element to which the nozzle portion is mountable, an interior of which connects an interior of the first storage o'er.

means to an interior of the first nozzle means of the nozzle portion.

The first storage means may be provided with vent means selectably operable to release air displaced *om an interior thereof by material entering through the first nozzle means.

Optionally, the container system may comprise a third storage means substantially identical to the second storage means.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a container system as described in the first aspect above, with the first storage means containing a first preselected

quantity of a first component of the multiple component system and the second storage means containing a second preselected quantity of a second component of said system.

Preferably, said preselected quantities of each component are in substantially optimum proportions for their subsequent reaction or mixing together.

Advantageously, the first storage means is capable of containing both of the first preselected quantity of the first component and the second preselected quantity of the second component.

The first storage means may thus initially contain the first preselected quantity of the first component and a free volume at least as great as the volume of the second storage means.

The first and second components of the multiple component system may each comprise a liquid, optionally a free-Oowing liquid.

A.::: Alternatively or additionally, at least one component may comprise a particulate solid material. At least the second component may comprises a moisture and/or air sensitive reagent or a material required to be kept sterile.

Alternatively or additionally, at least the second component may comprise a hazardous reagent, such as a harmful, irritant or flammable reagent.

Optionally, the container system may comprise a third storage means substantially identical to the second storage means and containing a third preselected quantity of a third component of the multiple component system.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage means adapted for use in a container system as described in either the first or second aspect above, comprising hollow tube means provided at a first end with first nozzle means and closed at a second end remote from the first, the first nozzle means being provided with perforating means. Preferably, the storage means contains a preselected quantity of a component of a multiple-: component system, optionally of a two-component system such as a two-component reactive system. À. Optionally, said preselected quantity may fill less than hall' of the internal volume of the storage means.

I'he storage means may be provided with dispensing means, separate from the nozzle means and optionally extending through the closed second end, so adapted that a contents of the storage means may selectively be dispensed therethrough.

The nozzle means may be generally cylindrical with the perforating means extending substantially coaxially therewithin or extending substantially axially therefrom.

The hollow tube means may be substantially flexible.

In a first, preferred embodiment of the storage means, said first nozzle means is threaded on an internal surface thereof and said perforating means extends into an interior of the first nozzle means *om an inner end thereof.

The first nozzle means may thus be adapted to receive engagingly a second nozzle means of second storage means, said second nozzle means being provided on an external surface with a corresponding thread.

The perforating means may comprise passage means extending therethrough to connect the interior of the nozzle means to an interior of the storage means.

À. À À À.:: Alternativcly, the nozzle means may be provided adjacent the perforating means with :. passage means connecting the interior thereof to an interior of the storage means, the À perl'orating means optionally comprising a plurality of radially extending elements defining said passage means therebetween. À In a second embodiment' said first nozzle means is threaded on an external surface thereof and is provided adjacent its outer end with perforating means extending outwardly therefrom.

The first nozzle means may thus be adapted to be received engagingly by a second nozzle means of a second storage means, said second nozzle means being provided on an internal surface with a corresponding thread.

l'he perforating means may comprise passage means extending therethrough and leading to an interior of the l'irst nozzle means.

Alternatively, the first nozzle means may be provided adjacent the perforating means with passage means leading to an interior thereof; the perforating means optionally comprising a plurality oi radially extending elements defining said passage means therebetwcen.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for storing and mixing a multiple component system, comprising the steps of providing a container system as described in either the first or second aspect above and containing a first component of the system in a first storage means having a first nozzle means and a second component of the system in a second storage means having a second nozzle means, inserting a smaller of said first and second nozzle means into an interior of a larger of said nozzle means so that a perforating means of the first nozzle means breaches a sealing means of the second nozzle means, transferring the second component from the second storage means through each nozzle means to the first storage means, mixing the first component and the second component within the first storage means and dispensing the mixed first and second components for use.

The method may comprise the step of detaching the second storage means from the first storage means, before dispensing the mixed first and second components through the first nozzle means of the first storage means.

Alternatively, the first storage means may be provided with dispensing means separate from the first nozzle means and the mixed first and second components may then be dispensed therethrough.

The method preferably comprises the steps of inserting the smaller said nozzle means into the larger said nozzle means by engaging an external thread of the smaller said nozzle means with an internal thread of the larger said nozzle means and rotating one storage means relative to the other to advance the smaller said nozzle means into the larger.

Optionally the method may comprise the steps of providing a third storage means substantially identical to the second, having a third nozzle means and containing a third component of the system, inserting a smaller of the first and third said nozzle means into a larger of the first and third said nozzle means so that the perforating means of the first nozzle means breaches a sealing means of the third nozzle means, transferring the third component from the third storage means to the first storage means, and mixing the third component with the first and second components within the first storage means.

The method may comprise the step ol shaking the container system to promote mixing of the components within the first storage means.

Alternatively or additionally, the method may comprise the step ol kneading the first storage means to promote mixing of the components therein.

The method may comprise the step of forcing air from the first storage means prior to connection with the second or optionally the third storage means.

The method may comprise the step of crushing the second and/or third storage means, optionally irreversibly, to drive substantially an entirety of the second and/or third component, respectively, into the first storage means.

Alternatively, the method may comprise the steps of compressing the first storage means to displace air therefrom under pressure into the second or third storage means and then releasing the first storage means to allow said compressed air to drive at least a portion of the second or third component, respectively, into the first storage means.

Said compression and release steps may be performed alternately until substantially an entirety of the second or third component, respectively, has been driven into the first storage means. À. - The compression and release steps are preferably performed with the second or third storage; À À. means, respectively, held generally above the first storage means.

À:. À À- À. À. The method may also comprise the step of holding the first storage means generally above À. the second or third storage means and compressing the first storage means to drive material..

À.. À..e therein into the second or third storage means, respectively.

Said material may comprise the first component or a mixture of components, for example to wash out residential second or third components, respectively from the second or third storage means.

According to a fifth aspect ol'the present invention, there is provided a method of storing and mixing a multiple-component system comprising the steps of providing a container system as described in either the first or second aspect above and also comprising third storage means substantially identical to the second, in which a first storage means is empty, a second storage

means comprises a first component of the system and a third storage means contains a second component of the system, inserting a smaller ol the first and second nozzle means of the first and second storage means, respectively, into a larger of said first and second nozzle means so that a perforating means of the first nozzle means breaches a sealing means of the second nozzle means transferring said first component from the second storage means to the first storage means, detaching the second storage means from the first, inserting a smaller of the first and third nozzle means of the first and third storage means, respectively, into a larger of said first and third nozzle means so that the perforating means of the first nozzle means breaches a sealing means of the third nozzle means, transferring the second component from the third storage means to the first storage means, mixing the first and second components À - within the first storage means and dispensing the mixed first and second components for use. À À À. À. Embodiments of the present invention will now be more particularly described by way of À.e example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: À À. Àe Àe Figure 1 is a cross-section of a container tube embodying the present invention and a conventional container tube usable therewith, each complete with contents Figure 2 is a cross-section of an alternative container tube embodying the present invention and a conventional container tube usable therewith, each complete with contents; Figure 3 is a cross-section of another container tube embodying the present invention and a conventional container tube usable therewith, each complete with contents; Figure 4 is an axial view of a nozzle of the container tube of F igure 1; Figure 5 is an axial view ol a nozzle of the container tube of Figure 2; Figure 6 is an axial view of a nozzle of the container tube ol Figure 3;

Figure 7 is a cross-section of a further container tube embodying the present invention and a sealed container tube adapted for use therewith, each complete with contents; and Figure X is a cross-section of a lwopart container tube embodying the present invention and a conventional container tube usable therewith, complete with contents.

Refining now to the Figures, and to Figure 1 in particular, a first container tube I comprises a body of flexible material, preferably plastics material, having a generally cylindrical first nozzle 2 at a first end 3 and being sealed at a second end 4 remote from the first end 3. The first nozzle 2 has an external thread 5 to receive a screw cap (not shown) to seal the first tube :.. 1 for storage. À.

:. A second, conventional container tube 6 comprises a body ol flexible material, e.g. of , Àe plastics material or of metal foil such as tin, lead or aluminium loll. At a first end 7, it has a À. generally cylindrical second nozzle 8 with an external thread 9. An integral thin seal 1()..

A-.: extends across the second nozzle 8. The second tube 6 is sealed or crimped sealingly closed at a second end 11 thereof, remote from the first end 7. The second nozzle 8 is provided with a screw cap (not shown) as added protection during storage.

The first nozzle 2 has an internal diameter equivalent to an external diameter of the second nozzle 8' and is provided with an internal thread 12 engageable with the external thread 9 of the second nozzle 8. The second nozzle 8 may thus be screwed into an open end of the first nozzle 2.

An inner end of the first nozzle 2 is substantially closed, and a penetrator rod 13 extends therefrom, concentrically with the first nozzle 2, towards the open end. A passage 14 extends through the penetrator rod 13, connecting the first nozzle 2 to an interior 15 of the first tube I (see Figure 4).

As the second nozzle 8 is screwed into the open end of first nozzle 2, a tip of the penetrator rod 13 comes into contact with and breaches the seal 10 across the second nozzle 8. An open path is thus established between an interior 16 of the second tube 6 and the interior 15 of the first tube 1. The close engagement of the external thread 9 and the internal thread 12 prevents establishment of an open path between the interior 16 of the second tube 6 and an exterior of either tube 1, 6. À In a preferred variant (not shown) the tip of the penetrator rod 13 extends obliquely to a longitudinal axis of the rod 13, rather than orthogonally thereto and substantially parallelly to the seal 10, as shown. 'l'he tip thus comprises an acute leading edge which first contacts and, breaches the seal 10.

The first and second tubes 1, 6 each contain one liquid component of a two-component reactive system. In the embodiment shown, the two-component system is a silicone-based encapsulant. A first component 17 is held in the first tube 1, and a second component 18, comprising a possibly moisture-sensitive curing/cross-linking agent, is held in the sealed second tube 6. The first tube 1 is dimensioned to hold a required volume ol' the first component 17, with a remaining free volume of its interior 15 being equivalent to or preferably greater than the volume of the second component 18 held in the second tube 6.

When the product is to be used, the protective caps are removed from the second nozzle 8 and the first nozzle 2. The first tube 1 is then squeezed to remove air from the interior 15 thereof. The second nozzle X is screwed into the open end of the first nozzle 2, and the penetrator rod 13 breaches the seal 10 across the second nozzle 8.

The second tube 6 may then be squeezed to urge the second component 18 out through the second nozzle 8 and the passage 14 into the interior 15 of the first tube I. (In many cases, the second component 18 will be sufficiently fluid to flow into the first tube I under gravity and/or be drawn in by the vacuum created by squeezing the first tube I).

The first and second components 17, 18 are then free to mix in the interior 15 of the first tube 1. The conjoined tubes 1, 6 can be shaken if required. Optionally, a mixing body can be provided within the first tube 1 to encourage mixing on shaking, although it is preferable to use a mixing body that has a shape that is unlikely to block or occlude the passage 14 of the first nozzle 2. It may be necessary to knead the first tube 1 in order to ensure mixing of more viscous components. If desired, the components 17, 18 being mixed in the first tube 1 could be transferred through the passage 14 to the second tube 6 and back, to encourage thorough mixing. Alternatively, the second tube could be removed at this stage and the cap screwed back onto the first tube.

Once the components 17, 18 have been mixed, they will begin to react. For example, some products described have a working life of around ten minutes before they gel. 'I'he second nozzle 8 is removed from the first nozzle 2 once mixing is complete, and the encapsulant, etc. may either be dispensed from the first tube 1 into a further container or be applied directly through the passage 14 and the first nozzle 2 to an item requiring sealing.

The container system allows the two components to be held separately, while rendering it straightforward to bring them together for mixing. Mixing the components within the conjoined containers has the advantage, for example over mixing in a separate pot, that there is minimal risk of spillage. Many two-component systems have at least one component that is irritant, harmful or otherwise potentially unsafe until it has been mixed. The container system minimises the chance of' a user coming into contact with such materials in their unmixed l'orm. The container system also makes it straightforward to provide accurately proportioned quantities of each component in order to give a known volume of sealant/encapsulant with an optimised composition.

The container system described is particularly useful where one component is air or moisture sensitive. Conventionally, such a material can be stored in a tube with an integral seal of the type shown for prolonged periods. However, once the seal is perforated and the material is dispensed l'or mixing, it is open to attack from oxygen or moisture in the air. In most cases, such a brief' exposure would not be a significant problem, but in critical applications, such as aerospace, or for particularly sensitive materials, mixing in an open atmosphere could be undesirable. In the system described, the seal is not perforated until the tubes are already sealingly connected. The air or moisture sensitive material thus only comes into contact with a minimal residual volume of air that has not been squeezed out of the first tube I before the second tube 6 was connected thereto. The container system described hence makes it possible to use two-component systems in more demanding applications and/or employ such systems containing more reactive or sensitive components than has hitherto been possible.

While the invention has been described in terms of a container for a twocomponent encapsulant or sealant, it may be applicable to a range of other systems. For example, hair care products are l'requently supplied as two components, such as a hair colorant and a bleaching agent, which may only be mixed immediately before use. Two-component adhesive formulations, such as two-pack epoxy adhesives, could also conveniently be supplied and mixed in such a container.

One or more further components could be mixed in with the first and second components 17, 18 in such a container system. For example, a colouring agent for a sealant could be supplied in a further tube, sealed or unsealed, which would be screwed into the first nozzle 2 ol'the first tube 1 either before or after the second tube 6 is inserted thereinto and the second component 18 transl'erred to the first tube 1. The colouring agent would then be transferred to the first tube I through the passage 14, again with minimal risk of spillage.

Although the first tube I described is provided with a perforator rod 13 having a connecting À passage 14 extending therethrough, it is also possible to use a l'irst nozzle 2 in which passages or apertures are provided adjacent to a perforator. Figures 2 and 3 show examples of such first tubes 1. À.

The first tube 1 of Figure 2 has a l'irst nozzle 2 provided with an external thread 5 and an internal thread 12, which is engageable with an external thread 9 of a second nozzle 8 of a second, conventional, container tube 6. The first nozzle 2 is provided with an arrowhead penetrator 19 mounted to an inner end thereof and extending towards its outer end. The arrowhead penetrator 19 comprises tour generally triangular blades 20 each extending radially between an axis and an inner wall of the first nozzle 2. As shown in Figure 5, the

four blades 20 are disposed in a cruciform arrangement, defining fourpassages 21 therebetween, which connect an interior of the first nozzle 2 to an interior 15 of the first tube 1. Thus, when the second nozzle 8 is screwed into the first nozzle 2, the arrowhead penetrator 19 first perforates the seal 10 across the second nozzle 8 and then opens up a substantial breach therein as the second nozzle 8 continues to rotate and move into the first nozzle 2.

The second component 18 of the two-component system held in the tubes I, 6 can then flow through the breach in the seal 10 and the passages 21, past the blades 20 of the penetrator 19, into an interior 15 of the first tube I. The first tube I of Figure 3 also has a first nozzle 2, provided with an external thread 5 and an internal thread 12, which is engageable with an external thread 9 of a second nozzle 8 of a second, conventional container tube 6. In this case, the first nozzle 2 is provided with a spike :. penetrator 22 mounted to an inner end thereof and extending towards its outer end. The spike penetrator 22 comprises an elongate perforator 23 extending axially within the first nozzle 2 :.. and connected to an inner wall thereof by three radially extending supports 24. As shown in Figure 6, the three supports 24 are equiangularly disposed and define three passages 21 À À therebctwccn, which connect an interior of the first nozzle 2 to an interior 15 of the first tube 1. In this example, the supports 24 are generally triangular, being shaped similarly to the blades 20 of Figures 2 and 5.

Thus, when the second nozzle X is screwed into the first nozzle 2, first the perforator 23 penetrates the seal 10 across the second nozzle 8, and then the supports 24 open up a substantial breach therein, as described for the blades 20 of the arrowhead penetrator 19. The

second component 18 of the two-component system can then flow through the breach in the seal 10 and the passages 21, past the supports 24 into an interior 15 ol'the first tube 1.

The tubes 1, 6 of Figures 2 and 3 are otherwise used exactly as described for the tubes 1, 6 of Figure 1. 'l'he advantage of the arrowhead penetrator 19 or the spike penetrator 22 is that a breach can be opened up in the seal 10 across much of its width, and that passages 21 of similar dimensions connect the first nozzle 2 to the interior 15 of the first tube 1. This is of particular benefit when used with viscous second components 18 which might otherwise be difficult to transfer to the llrst tube 1. There is also a slight chance, with the penetrator rod 13 shown in Figure 2, that a small proportion of the second component 18 could flow betwocn the penctrator rod 13 and the internal thread 12 of the first nozzle 2, before the second nozzle 8 has been screwed fully home, and thus would not be transferred into the interior 15 of the first tube 1. This would be undesirable in the case of hazardous second components 18. À À À Although the arrowhead penetrator 19 is shown with four blades 20, and the spike penetrator :. 22 is shown with three radial supports 24, variants with different numbers of blades 20 or supports 24 respectively are envisaged. I À... Figure 7 shows a slightly different arrangement, in which the first tube I is provided with an alternative first nozzle 25 and the second tube 6 is provided with an alternative second nozzle 26. The alternative first nozzle 25 has an external thread 5, but no internal thread. An arrowhead pcnetrator 19 is mounted adjacent an outer end of the alternative first nozzle 25 and extends

outwardly therefrom. A protective cap (not shown) shaped to enclose the penetrator 19 can be screwed onto the external thread. The alternative second nozzle 26 has an internal thread 27 and an external annular detent 28, to retain a press-fit protective cap (not shown). The alternative second nozzle 26 may instead be provided with an external thread to receive a screw-on protective cap if desired. In either case, the alternative second nozzle 26 has an integral seal l 0 extending across an inner end thereof.

The alternative first nozzle 25 has an external diameter equivalent to an internal diameter of the alternative second nozzle 26, and its external thread 5 is engageable with the internal thread 27 thereof. The alternative first nozzle 25 may thus be screwed into an open cud of the alternative second nozzle 26. '['his results in the arrowhead penetrator l9 contacting, perl'orating and reaming out a substantial breach in the seal lo across the inner end of the alternative second nozzle 26. The second compartment 18 held in the second tube 6 is thus Àe released to flow through the passages defined by the blades of the arrowhead perforator 19 À.

:-- into an interior of the alternative first no:zzle 25 and thence into an interior 15 of the first tube À:. l for mixing.

À À. À.:e -

À - Otherwise, the tubes 1, 6 of Figure 7 are used exactly as described for the tubes 1, 6 of..

À À. À À.e Figures l, 2 and 3. '['his alternative arrangement has the benefit of simplifying the structure of the first tube l, although it requires a second tube 6 of non-standard form. It has the benefit that the recessed seal lo of the alternative second nozzle 26 is almost impossible to breach accidentally, which may be advantageous for particularly reactive and/or hazardous second components l 8.

In Figure 8, the second tube 6 is a conventional container tube having a second nozzle 8 with an external thread 9 and a seal 10 as described above in respect ol' Figures 1, 2 and 3. The first tube I is ol'a different form to those described above, having a two-piece construction which requires assembly before use but may be easier to mould t'rom plastics material.

The first end 3 of the first tube 1 is provided with a cylindrical nozzle 29 with a circumferential detent ring 30 extending around its external surface. A nozzle cap 31 is mounted to the first end 3 of the first tube 1 by means ol' a mounting collar 32 which fits around the external surface of the cylindrical nozzle 29, engaging with the detent ring 30.

The nozzle cap 31 is provided with a first nozzle 2 having an external thread 5 and an internal thread 12 engageable with the external thread 9 of the second nozzle 8, as described above.

In the example shown, the first nozzle 2 is provided with an arrowhead penetrator 19, but a spike penetrator 22 or a hollow pcnctrator rod 13 may be used. As above, a hollow penetrator rod 13 may be provided with an oblique tip. The nozzle cap 31 is Paired into the first end 3 of the first tube 1 for added security of mounting and for aesthetic reasons.

The first nozzle 2 of the nozzle cap 31 is substantially exactly aligned with the cylindrical nozzle 29, and the nozzles 2, 29 act as a single nozzle. A protective cap can be screwed on to the external thread 5. Once the nozzle cap 31 is mounted to the first tube 1, the first tube I can be used exactly as described above. Among the advantages of this arrangement are that the complex moulding required to form the internal 12 and external 5 threads can be carried out separately from the moulding of the remainder of the first tube 1. '['here may also be advantages from moulding the nozzle cap 31 from a different plastics material to the remainder ol'the first tube I, for example the ability to use a more rigid plastics material.

An alternative method of transferring the second component 18 to the first tube I avoids the need to crush or roll up the second tube 6. The first tube 1 and second tube 6 are connected without the air having first been expressed from the first tube 1. The first tube I is held below the second tube 6, and is manually compressed. Air is thus displaced under pressure into the second tube 6. The first tube I is released, and the pressure of the air forced into the second tube 6 urges a portion of the second component 18 into the first tube l. where it may mix with the first component 17. The first tube I is repeatedly compressed and released until the second component 18 is substantially completely transferred thereto.

The overpressure resulting from such manual squeezing is unlikely to endanger the integrity of the tubes 1, 6 or the connection therebetween. This "pumping" method will be effective for any second component 18 that is reasonably fluid, although very viscous second components 18 may well require the crushing of tube 6 to ensure complete emptying thereof.

To transfer material instead from the first tube I to the second tube 6, the first tube I is held above the second tube 6 and then compressed. This urges material into the second tube 6.

When the first tube I is released in this orientation, air from the second tube 6 will be transferred to the first 1. This procedure could be used to transfer the mixed components 17, 18 to and fro between the tubes 1' 6 to improve mixing. It could also be used to "back wash" the second tube 6 to extract residual second component 18 therefrom (this would be particularly useful where the exact proportions of' the components are critical, or where residual unmixed second component 18 in a discarded second tube 6 might be hazardous). It may be necessary to transfer a portion of the first component 17 to the second tube 6 as an initial step, for example to improve the flow properties of the second component 18 before it is transferred to the first tube 1.

The first tubes I described above can also be used as mixing chambers for two or more reactive components which must each be kept in a sealed container prior to mixing. In this case, the first tube 1 is initially empty, while the second tube 6 contains a first reactive component. A third tube, substantially identical to the second tube 6, contains a second reactive component. The first tube I is selected to have a volume greater than or equal to the volumes of the two reactive components.

When the components are to be mixed, the first tube 1 is squeezed to expel a substantial proportion of the air therefrom, and the second nozzle 8 of the second tube 6 is screwed into the first nozzle 2 of the first tube 1, as described, perforating the seal 10 thereacross. The first reactive component is then transferred from the second tube 6, through the conjoined nozzles 2, 8 into an interior 15 of the first tube I. The second tube 6 is then unscrewed and discarded. The first tube I is squeezed again to expel a remainder of the air therefrom, and the nozzle of the third tube is screwed into the first nozzle 2, perforating its seal, and allowing the transfer of the second reactive component therefrom into the first tube 1. The first and second reactive components are then free to mix within the first tube 1. Once mixing is complete, the third tube is removed from the first nozzle 2 of the first tube 1, and the contents of the first tube I are dispensed for use.

Alternatively, the air may be left in the first tube 1, which is then "pumped", as described above, to transfer the first and second reactive components into the first tube I from the second 6 and third tubes, respectively.

Thus, two components, each requiring storage in separate sealed containers, can be mixed in a further container without risk of spillage. The sealed containers are only opened as they are connected to the further container, minimising the contact between their contents and the environment. While the above description is couched in terms of reactive components, it is equally

applicable where the components merely mix, and do not subsequently react.

Although the invention has been described above in terms of a flexible first tube 1, it may be desired to use a substantially rigid mixing container in its place. Since this would make it difficult to expel air from the mixing container before the components are transferred thereinto, it maybe beneficial, in this case at least, to provide an air vent which may be opened as material is transferred into the mixing container to allow air to be displaced therefrom. À '' . In the case of the first tube 1 provided with a nozzle cap 31, shown in Figure 8, this can be achieved by providing an eccentric first orifice in the first end 3 of the first tube 1, and a second orifice in the nozzle cap 31. The nozzle cap 31 can be manually rotated relative to the 2.

first tube 1, the nozzle 29 acting as an axle. In one rotational orientation, the l'irst and second orifices are aligned, and a vent is formed, allowing air to escape from an interior 15 of the l'irst tube 1 as material enters through the nozzle 29. In other rotational orientations, the first and second orifices are not connected, and no air can pass therethrough. Thus, a vent can selectably be opened for transfer of materials, but sealed for storage and for mixing.

Although the invention has been described above in terms of two or more liquid components, it may also be used lor particulate solids.

For example, a granular first component 17 could be stored as the first tube 1, and a liquid second component 18 could be transferred from the second tube 6 to mix therewith.

Alternatively, the second tube 6 could hold a second component 18 in the form of granules, powder, fibres, etc. which is sufficiently Plowable to be "pumped" into the first tube 1, as described above. Thus, the particulate second component 18 could be transferred to the first tube 1, to mix with a liquid first component 17 therein, For example, glass fibres, used to reinforce resin compositions, can irritate the skin and eyes and can be harmful to the lungs if inhaled. A charge of glass fibres, stored in a sealed second tube 6, could be added to a charge of liquid resin held in a first tube 1, without risk of their being released into the open.

A sealed second tube 6 could also be used to store a dose of pharmaceutical material, in powder or granular form, which is moisture sensitive during storage and/or must be stored under sterile conditions. A measured quantity of an electrolyte solution is stored in the first tube 1. If the pharmaceutical material is free-flowing, it can be "pumped" into the first tube 1, to dissolve in the electrolyte. Alternatively, as an initial step, a portion of the electrolyte can be "pumped" into the second tube 6 to dissolve the pharmaceutical, and the resulting concentrated solution can then be "pumped" back to the first tube 1 to mix with a remainder of the electrolyte and give the desired concentration. This solution of the pharmaceutical is then ready for immediate oral or intravenous administration.

In such applications, it would be preferable if the solution could be administered directly from the container in which it had been prepared rather than risk contamination by separating the tubes 1, 6 and pouring it into a further vessel. Therefore, the first tube I may be provided with a fitting for connection directly to a standard intravenous drip tube. Since the closed end 4 of the plastics first tube I is conveniently formable by heat-sealing, it should be straightforward to incorporate such a fitting into the end 4 of the tube I during manufacture.

Similarly, where a multiple component system would benefit from a particular form of applicator or dispenser (Iv example to apply a bead of adhesive or strip of sealant to a particular substrate) than such an applicator or dispenser could be incorporated into the closed end 4 of the first tube 1.

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Claims

1. A container system for the storage and mixing of a multiple component system, comprising first storage means provided with first nozzle means and second storage means provided with second nozzle means having frangible sealing means extending thereacross, said first and second nozzle means being of such differing dimensions that a larger of said nozzle means is adapted to receive a smaller of said nozzle means into an interior thereof, and perforating means provided in the first nozzle means to contact operatively the sealing means of the second nozzle means during said reception of the smaller said nozzle means into the larger said nozzle means.

2. A container system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each said storage means comprises a flexible hollow tube provided with respective nozzle means at a first end thereof and À À -

closed at a second end remote from the first. À.

:- ..

3. A container system as claimed in either claim I or claim 2, wherein each said nozzle À. means is generally cylindrical, with the smaller said nozzle means being provided on À -.. À an external surface thereof with a screw thread, and the interior of the larger said I'.

À À .. nozzle means being correspondingly screw-threaded to receive the smaller said nozzle means engagingly therein.

4. A container system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the perforating means comprises a body having passage means therethrough and extending into an interior of the first nozzle means from an inner end thereof.

5. A container system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a solid perforating means co-operates with passage means adjacent thereto.

6. A container system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein one said storage means, optionally the first, is provided with dispensing means, separate from its respective nozzle means and so adapted that a mixed contents of the container system may selectively be delivered therethrough.

7. A container system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first nozzle means is larger than the second nozzle means, and is adapted to receive the second nozzle means into its interior.

8. A container system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the perforating means of the first nozzle means extends substantially concentrically within the interior thereof. '

9. A container system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second nozzle À means is larger than the first nozzle means, and is adapted to receive the first nozzle means into its interior..;

10. A container system as claimed in claim 9, wherein the perforating means of the first nozzle means extends substantially axially outwardly from an outer end thereof.

A container system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first storage means comprises a nozzle portion mountable thereto, the nozzle portion comprising said first nozzle means and said perforating means.

12. A container system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first storage means contains a first predetermined quantity of a first component of the multiple component system and the second storage means contains a second predetermined quantity of a second component ol said system.

13. A container system as claimed in claim 12, wherein said predetermined quantities of each component are in substantially optimum proportions for their subsequent reaction or mixing together.

14. A container system as claimed in either claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the first and second components of the multiple component system each comprise a liquid, optionally a free-flowing liquid.

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15. A container system as claimed in either claim 12 or claim 13, wherein one component À:. comprises a particulate solid material.

16. A container system as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein at least the..' : second component comprises a moisture and/or air sensitive reagent, a material required to be kept sterile, or a hazardous reagent.

17. A container system as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 16, comprising a third storage means substantially identical to the second storage means and containing a third predetermined quantity of a third component of the multiple component system.

18. A storage means adapted for use in a container system as claimed in any one of the above claims, comprising hollow tube means provided at a first end with first nozzle means provided with perforating means and closed at a second end remote from the first.

19. A storage means as claimed in claim 18, containing a predetermined quantity of a component of a multiple-component system, optionally of a two-component reactive system.

20. A storage means as claimed in either claim 18 or claim 19, provided with dispensing means, separate lrom the nozzle means and optionally extending through the closed second end, so adapted that a contents of the storage means may selectively be dispensed therethrough.

21. A storage means as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein said first nozzle means is threaded on an internal surface thereof and said perforating means extends into an interior of the first nozzle means from an inner end thereof:

22. A storage means as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein said first nozzle means is threaded on an external surface thereof and is provided adjacent its outer end with perforating means extending outwardly therefrom.

23. A method of storing and mixing a multiple component system, comprising the steps of providing a container system as claimed in any one of claims I to 17 and containing a first component of the system in a first storage means having a first

nozzle means and a second component of the system in a second storage means having a second nozzle means, inserting a smaller of said first and second nozzle means into an interior of a larger ol said nozzle means so that a perforating means of the first nozzle means breaches a frangible sealing means of the second nozzle means, transferring the second component from the second storage means through each nozzle means to the first storage means, mixing the first component and the second component within the first storage means and dispensing the mixed first and second components for use.

24. A method as claimed in claim 23, wherein the first storage means is provided with dispensing means separate from the first nozzle means and the mixed first and second components are dispensed therethrough.

25. method as claimed in either claim 23 or claim 24, comprising the steps of inserting the smaller said nozzle means into the larger said nozzle means by engaging an external thread of the smaller said nozzle means with an internal thread of the larger said nozzle means and rotating one storage means relative to the other to advance the smaller said nozzle means into the larger.

26. A method as claimed in any one ol claims 23 to 25, comprising the steps of providing a third storage means substantially identical to the second, having a third nozzle means and containing a third component of the system, inserting a smaller of the first and third said nozzle means into a larger of the first and third said nozzle means so that the perforating means ol the first nozzle means breaches a frangible sealing means of the third nozzle means, transferring the third component from the third

storage means to the first storage means, and mixing the third component with the first and second components within the l'irst storage means.

27. A method as claimed in any one of claims 23 to 26, comprising the steps of compressing the first storage means to displace air therefrom under pressure into the second or third storage means and then releasing the first storage means to allow said compressed air to drive at least a portion of the second or third component, respectively, into the first storage means.

2X. A method as claimed in claim 27, I'urther comprising the step of holding the first storage means generally above the second or third storage means and compressing the first storage means to drive material therein into the second or third storage means, respectively.

29. A method of storing and mixing a multiple-component system comprising the steps of' providing a container system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 and also comprising third storage means substantially identical to the second, in which the first storage means is empty, the second storage means comprises a first component of the system and the third storage means contains a second component of the system, inserting a smaller of the first and second nozzle means of the first and second storage means, respectively, into a larger of said first and second nozzle means so that a perforating means of the first nozzle means breaches a frangible sealing means of the second nozzle means, transferring said first component from the second storage means to the first storage means, detaching the second storage means from the first, inserting a smaller of the first and third nozzle means of the first and third storage

means, respectively, into a larger of said first and third nozzle means so that the perforating means of the first nozzle means breaches a frangible sealing means of the third nozzle means, transferring the second component from the third storage means to the first storage means, mixing the first and second components within the first storage means and dispensing the mixed first and second components for use.

l

30. A container system substantially as described herein with reference to the Figures of the accompanying drawings.

31. A storage container provided with perforating means substantially as described herein with reference to the Figures of the accompanying drawings.

32. A method for storing and mixing a multiple component system substantially as described herein with reference to the Figures of the accompanying drawings.

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