WO2014035935A1

WO2014035935A1 - Ampoule dispenser

Info

Publication number: WO2014035935A1
Application number: PCT/US2013/056745
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lynn PEASLEE; Ryan DOWNARD; Bruce S. Mclean
Original assignee: Ultradent Products, Inc.
Priority date: 2012-08-27
Filing date: 2013-08-27
Publication date: 2014-03-06

Abstract

An ampoule dispenser can comprise a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion. The ampoule dispenser also comprises a deformable hinge positioned between the first portion and the second portion. When the first portion is inverted within the second portion along the deformable hinge, the first portion does not exhibit a rebounding bias and remains inverted within second portion. The ampoule dispenser also includes a neck attached to the second portion of the fluid cell having an opening therethrough in fluid communication with the fluid cell.

Description

AMPOULE DISPENSER

BACKGROUND

Dispensers are used in the health care industry for various purposes, including for injecting fluids in medical or dental settings. Furthermore, dispensers, such as syringes, ampoules, or the like, can be configured to receive application tips or other devices, based on a particular application. For example, certain dispensers can be used introduce compositions to the teeth or gums, such as for teeth whitening, application of fluoride, etc.

There are some applications where syringes or ampoules may be beneficial for packaging, storing, and using a specific composition in a medical or dental setting. Such devices can be relatively simple in design, inexpensive to manufacture, and easy to ship. Furthermore, these or other types of dispensers can be prepared and shipped with a composition predisposed therein for immediate use.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is drawn to an ampoule dispenser, a method of storing and using an application fluid, and a system for dispensing an application fluid. The ampoule dispenser can comprise a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion. The ampoule dispenser also comprises a deformable hinge positioned between the first portion and the second portion. When the first portion is inverted within the second portion along the deformable hinge, the first portion does not exhibit a rebounding bias and remains inverted within second portion. The ampoule dispenser also includes a neck attached to the second portion of the fluid cell having an opening therethrough in fluid communication with the fluid cell. In another example, a method of storing and using an application fluid can comprise obtaining an ampoule dispenser containing an application fluid. The ampoule dispenser can comprise a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, as well as a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough. The proximal end can be attached to the second portion of the fluid cell. A cap can also be attached to the distal end of the neck. Additional steps include removing the cap from the neck, and inverting the first portion into the second portion, thereby ejecting the application fluid from the fluid cell, through the neck, and out of the distal end. After ejecting the application fluid, the first portion remains positioned within the second portion without a

rebounding bias.

In another example, a method of storing and mixing a two part application fluid can comprise obtaining an ampoule dispenser and a syringe. The ampoule dispenser can contain Part A of a two part application fluid, and can include a fluid cell having a first portion that is invertible into a second portion, as well as a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough. The proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell. The syringe can connect with the neck and can contain Part B of the two part application fluid. An additional step includes mixing Part A with Part B by i) inverting the first portion of the fluid cell into the second portion, thereby ejecting Part A from the fluid cell, through the neck, and into the syringe, and ii) ejecting Part B from the syringe into the ampoule dispenser.

In another example, a system for dispensing an application fluid can comprise an ampoule dispenser and an application tip. The ampoule dispenser can include a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion. The first portion can be prepared so that it does not exhibit a rebounding bias after inversion. The dispenser can also include a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough with the proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell. The application tip can comprise a channeling tube configured to receive an application fluid from the neck and dispense the application fluid from a distal end thereof. In another example, a system for mixing a two part application fluid can comprise ampoule dispenser containing Part A of a two part application fluid, and a syringe containing Part B of a two part application fluid. The ampoule dispenser can include a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion, wherein the first portion does not exhibit a rebounding bias after inversion. The ampoule dispenser can also include a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough, the proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell. The syringe can be configured to connect with the neck of the ampoule dispenser. Part A and Part B are mixable by alternatingly i) inverting the first portion of the ampoule dispenser into the second portion to eject Part A into the syringe, and ii) ejecting Part B from the syringe into the ampoule dispenser, until the two part application fluid is mixed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front plan view of an ampoule dispenser in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a back plan view of the ampoule dispenser of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is top plan view of the ampoule dispenser of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of the ampoule dispenser of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 5a is a side plan view of the ampoule dispenser of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 5b is cross-sectional view of Section A of the ampoule dispenser of FIG. 5a;

FIG. 6a is a front plan view of the ampoule dispenser of FIG. 1 , with the cap removed and the first portion of the fluid cell inverted within the second portion of the fluid cell;

FIG. 6b is a cross-sectional view of Section B of the ampoule dispenser of FIG. 6b;

FIG. 7 is a front plan view of an ampoule dispenser of FIG. 1 , with the cap removed and a application tip in position for inserting in a distal end of a neck of the ampoule dispenser in accordance with an example of the present disclosure; FIG. 8 is a front plan view of an alternative ampoule dispenser in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a side plan view of the ampoule dispenser of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a front plan view of an alternative ampoule dispenser in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1 1 is a front plan view of another alternative ampoule dispenser in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a front plan view of yet another alternative ampoule dispenser in accordance with an example of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 13 is a front plan view of yet another alternative ampoule dispenser in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular process steps and materials disclosed herein because such process steps and materials may vary somewhat. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples only. The terms are not intended to be limiting because the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be limited only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

It is noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The terms "first portion" and "second portion" are used herein to describe specific sections of the fluid cells of the ampoule dispensers. These terms are used for convenience, and could as easily been referred to as a "rear portion" or a "forward portion," respectively, or a "top portion" and a "bottom portion," respectively. The terms "first" and "second," in one example, can be used to coincide with a general direction of fluid ejection from the fluid cell into the neck of the ampoule dispenser. The first portion is typically inverted into the second portion of the fluid cell to cause the movement of the application fluid out of the second portion of fluid cell and into the neck in a generally forward direction. That being stated, the neck can be positioned anywhere on the second portion of the fluid cell, or can even straddle the second portion and the first portion, as long as at least a part of the neck is attached to the second portion of the fluid cell.

As used herein, the term "angled" when referring to the neck refers to the relative angle of the neck at the proximal end that where it is attached to the fluid cell compared to the distal end where application fluid is dispensed. For example, the proximal end of the neck may be attached to the fluid cell substantially perpendicularly from a surface thereof; or stated another way, so that it radiates straight out from the fluid cell. However, at the distal end, the fluid may be discharged at a relative angle that deviates from 180° (as would be the case with a straight neck) compared to the proximal end. A typical range for this relative angle deviation from 180° ranges from about 5° to 45° compared to proximal end, as shown in FIGS. 1 , 2, 6a, 7, and 8, but particularly as Θ in FIG. 6a. It is noted that even a curved neck, as defined by herein, is considered to be "angled" as a result of comparing the proximal end to the distal end, even though there is no specific identifiable location or point where two lines are connected. The term "angled" when referring to the neck also includes embodiments where the neck can be straight, but does not radiate perpendicularly from the fluid cell, e.g., 5° to 45° deviation from perpendicular of the tangent of the sphere.

The definition of "invert" or "inverting" as it relates to the first portion of the fluid cell refers to the action of moving the first portion of a fluid cell from a generally bulbous position, such as would be the case when containing a fluid, to a configuration where the first portion is inverted and positioned within the second portion of the fluid cell. Typically, the second portion of fluid cell is shaped similarly as the inverted first portion of the fluid cell, thus, allowing for a substantially complete ejection of a fluid from the fluid cell in some examples. An example of this inversion is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 6a and 6b.

The term "fluid" when referring to an application fluid includes flowable materials ranging from liquids to semisolids, including suspensions.

As used herein, the term "about" is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be "a little above" or "a little below" the endpoint. The degree of flexibility of this term can be dictated by the particular variable and would be within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to determine based on experience and the associated description herein.

The term "substantially" provides a small degree of flexibility in interpretation of the meaning of a term. For example, the term "substantially spherical" would include structures that are precisely spherical to structures that generally appear spherical, even if they are not perfect in their spherical shape. Likewise, the term "substantially perpendicular" would include structures that are precisely perpendicular to structures that are nearly perpendicular, e.g., not be easily discernible as not being perpendicular without a right angle measuring device.

As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositional components, and/or materials may be presented in a common list for

convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary.

Concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. As an illustration, a numerical range of "about 1 to about 5" should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of about 1 to about 5, but also include individual values and sub-ranges within the indicated range. Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 2, 3.5, and 4 and sub-ranges such as from 1 -3, from 2-4, and from 3-5, etc. This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value. Furthermore, such an interpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristics being described.

With these definitions in mind, the present disclosure is drawn to an ampoule comprising a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion. The ampoule dispenser also comprises a deformable hinge positioned between the first portion and the second portion. When the first portion is inverted within the second portion along the deformable hinge, the first portion does not exhibit a rebounding bias and remains inverted within second portion. The ampoule dispenser also includes a neck attached to the second portion of the fluid cell having an opening

therethrough in fluid communication with the fluid cell.

In another example, a method of storing and using a fluid can comprise obtaining an ampoule dispenser containing an application fluid. The ampoule dispenser can comprise a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion; a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough, the proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell; and a cap attached to the distal end of the neck. Additional steps include removing the cap from the neck, and inverting the first portion into the second portion, thereby ejecting the application fluid from the fluid cell, through the neck, and out of the distal end. After ejecting the application fluid, the first portion remains positioned within the second portion without a rebounding bias.

In another example, a system for dispensing an application fluid can comprise an ampoule dispenser and an application tip. The ampoule dispenser can include a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion. The first portion can be prepared so that it does not exhibit a rebounding bias after inversion. The dispenser can also include a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough with the proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell. The application tip can comprise a channeling tube configured to receive an application fluid from the neck and dispense the application fluid from a distal end thereof. In each of the various embodiments herein, whether discussing the ampoule dispenser or related methods, there may be some common features of each of these embodiments that further characterize options in accordance with principles discussed herein. Thus, any discussion of the ampoule dispenser, or related system or method, either alone or in combination, is also applicable to the other embodiments not specifically mentioned. For example, a discussion of the fluid cell in the context of the ampoule dispenser is also applicable to the related method or system, and wee versa. For example, with respect to the ampoule dispensers, systems, and related methods, an exemplary dispenser can further comprise a plurality of flanges positioned on both the neck and the second portion of the fluid cell, but the flanges do not extend to the first portion of the fluid cell. In one embodiment, plurality of flanges, e.g., two flanges, can be positioned at about 180° from one another around the neck and second portion of the fluid cell. The neck can be positioned to extend straight out from the second portion, or it can be angled as defined herein. In one example, the neck can be angled along a plane coincident with the plurality of flanges. In another example, the angled neck can be curved. Furthermore, the fluid cell can be any shape that allows the first portion to invert within the second portion. Exemplary shapes that can be used include substantially spherical or ellipsoidal shapes, diamond shapes, or other practical shapes that can be effective for ejecting application fluid from a generally rear to front direction by inverting the first portion into the second portion. For example, in one embodiment, a flattened spherical shape can be used that has a circular deformable hinge, but which is compressed in a direction from the first portion to the second portion, e.g., rear to front, of the fluid cell. An example of this shape is shown in FIG. 12. As mentioned, the deformable hinge provides a line of demarcation, discontinuity, or weakness where the material will readily fold.

Typically, the deformable hinge is positioned at or near a centerline of the fluid cell shape allowing for maximum fluid ejection, though this is not required.

Prior to ejection of the application fluid, the ampoule dispenser typically includes a cap attached to the neck portion at a location distal to the fluid cell. This allows for application fluid storage and application fluid mixing within the fluid cell without unwanted fluid removal prior to intended use. Once the cap is removed, an application tip with a channeling tube can be attached to the neck of the ampoule dispenser to provide for fluid communication with the opening in the neck. In one example, the neck of the ampoule dispenser can include a locking mechanism to allow for an added interlocking force between the neck of the ampoule dispenser and the application tip.

Turning to FIGS. 1 -4, several different views of the same exemplary embodiment are shown, and as such, these FIGS, will be described together with reference numerals being generally applicable to any and all of FIGS. 1 -4. It is noted that though several features are shown in the FIGS., none of these features should be considered required by virtue of their inclusion in these embodiments. With this in mind, an ampoule dispenser 100 is shown, which comprises a fluid cell 1 10, a neck 1 12, flanges 1 14, a cap 1 16, and a gripping tab 1 18. The fluid cell in this example includes a first portion 120, a second portion 122, and a deformable hinge 124. The deformable hinge acts to separate the first portion from the second portion, and provides a discontinuity or weakness in the fluid cell material so that the first portion is invertible within the second portion along the deformable hinge. It is noted that the fluid cell is hollow and the neck has a channel therethrough in fluid communication with the fluid cell.

In further detail with respect to the flanges 1 14, they are positioned on both the neck and the second portion of the fluid cell, but the flanges do not extend to the first portion of the fluid cell. This provides multiple advantages, including, but not limited to, providing a grip for a user when removing the cap 1 16 (using scissors, a blade, twist-tearing, etc.). When removing the cap, the flanges provide handles for a user to grip while cutting the cap free, or a place to hold the ampoule while the cap is twisted for removal. Thus, by using the flanges as a grip, the user does not have to squeeze or put undue pressure on the fluid cell during cap removal, which could cause inadvertent squeezing of the fluid cell while the cap is being removed. Pressure on the fluid cell may lead to ejection of the fluid during the cap removal process, which is not when the fluid is intended to be ejected. The use of the flanges as handles reduces this likelihood.

Another benefit of the flanges 1 14 is that is provides appropriate placement of the neck 1 12 between the fingers of the user when the neck is curved or angled (as shown specifically in FIGS. 1 -2). The device is typically held like a standard syringe. Essentially, the user places the thumb on the first portion 120 of the fluid cell 1 10, and a pair of fingers along a second portion 122 of fluid cell, one finger on each side of the neck with the plane provided by the pair of flanges also between the fingers. In this position, the curved or angled neck necessarily will point in a downward trajectory or an upward trajectory (and not a sideways trajectory). Thus, with only one of two configurations of use, more control by the user is possible without the need to line up the ampoule in between uses. Simply placing the device in the hand provides an automatic approach to lining up the device for proper use. It is noted that this benefit relates only to embodiments with an angled neck, as a straight neck would have no need to align the tip of the neck.

The flanges 1 14 also provide added structural support for the second portion 122 during fluid ejection. Thus, as the flanges are not attached to the first portion 120 of the fluid cell, the first portion is allowed to freely be inverted within the second portion, while the second portion is held in place structurally in part by the flanges.

Turning to FIG. 5a, 5b, a side plan view of the ampoule dispenser of FIGS. 1 -4 is shown. Furthermore, in FIGS. 6a and 6b, a front plan view of the ampoule dispenser of FIGS. 1 -4 is shown in a second, used configuration. Each of the reference numerals described in FIGS. 1 -4 are applicable to FIG. 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b as well. However, cross-sectional views provided in sections A and B of FIGS. 5b and 6b, respectively, provide additional details regarding the

deformable hinge 124 in both a fluid storage configuration (5b) and a used configuration (6b). Thus, in one example, the deformable hinge can act as a living hinge, providing a line of demarcation or discontinuity in the material.

When the first portion 120 is pushed and inverted into the second portion 122, as shown in FIGS. 6a and 6b, the first portion will remain inverted within the second portion along the deformable hinge.

Turning specifically to FIGS. 6a and 6b in further detail, the ampoule dispenser 100 of FIG. 1 is shown in a used configuration. Again, the ampoule comprises a fluid cell 1 10, a neck 1 12, and flanges 1 14. The cap and gripping tab are removed in this example. Again, the fluid cell in this example includes a first portion 120, a second portion 122, and a deformable hinge 124. However, the first portion in this example is hidden from view in FIG. 6a, as it is inverted within the second portion, as shown in more detail in FIG. 6b. As can also be seen, the deformable hinge acts to separate the second portion from the first portion, and fluid cell folds in on itself cleanly along the deformable hinge. The application fluid is mostly discharged from the fluid cell, with only minimal waste remaining in the neck 1 12 of the ampoule. In furtherance of this, the ampoule dispenser can be defined in terms of an interior volume of the fluid cell and an interior volume of the neck. In one example, the interior volume of the fluid cell to interior volume of the neck can be at a volume ratio of at least 1 :1 . In other examples, the interior volume of the fluid cell to interior volume of the neck can be from 3:1 to 10,000:1 , from 3: 1 to 100:1 , or from 5:1 to 50: 1 .

Also shown in FIG. 6a is a relative angle Θ which can be determined by intersecting a centerline perpendicular to the proximal opening (p) and a centerline perpendicular to the distal opening (d) of the neck. The relative angle can range, in this example, from 5° to 45°, though angles outside of this range are also within the scope of the present disclosure. It is noted that the neck need not be angled, but in one example, an angle may be desirable for certain applications.

FIG. 7 depicts a system of the present disclosure, with an ampoule dispenser 100 in position to receive an application tip 200. As shown, the cap 1 16 and gripping tab 1 18 is removed. The ampoule in this configuration includes a fluid cell 1 10, a neck 1 12, flanges 1 14, as previously described. The fluid cell in this example includes a first portion 120, a second portion 122, and a deformable hinge 124, as also previously described. In this system, however, there is also an application tip 200 including a pressure fit barb 210 for inserting within the neck of the ampoule dispenser, a fitting stop 212 to prevent over-insertion of the pressure fit barbs, and a channeling tube 214 to channel application fluid onto the applicator brush 216. It is noted that application tip is generally hollow.

Additionally, the pressure fit barb designed to hold the application tip in place when inserted into a distal opening of the neck of the ampoule. In one example, the pressure fit barb may expand the polymer within a female channel of the neck (located at the distal opening of the neck), holding the application tip firmly in place for use. In this particular example, the application tip also includes an additional protrusion 218 that mates with a groove 130 within the neck 1 12 of the ampoule dispenser, thereby providing a locking mechanism. Other systems for attaching the application tip to the ampoule can also be used, including threads, gaskets, luer locks, or the like. Alternatively, though the application tip is described as the "male" device, it could likewise be the "female" device to the distal opening of the neck's "male" structure. Regardless of the attachment mechanism, as application fluid is dispensed from the ampoule, the fluid is channeled through the channeling tube and applied to the applicator brush. Though the ampoule and the applicator tip are shown as two distinct pieces, it is understood that these two pieces could similarly be manufactured as a single integrated, unitary part. In such embodiments, the neck and the channeling tube could be integrated as a single structure, e.g., the neck could be further elongated and the applicator brush attached directly to the neck. It is noted that the application tip can be a brush tip, a flocked tip, an application tube tip, a bristle tip, or the like.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are provided as an alternative design embodiment with similar features as described in the preceding FIGS. More specifically, an ampoule dispenser 300 is shown, which comprises a fluid cell 310, a neck 312, flanges 314, a cap 316, and a gripping tab 318. The fluid cell in this example includes a first portion 320, a second portion 322, and a deformable hinge 324. As with the other examples, the deformable hinge can provide a physical discontinuity or weakness in the material between the second portion and the first portion so that the first portion is invertible within the second portion along the deformable hinge.

FIGS. 10-12 are likewise provided to set forth an alternative designs with similar features as described in the preceding FIGS. It is noted that though these three embodiments are structurally different, they are provided with common reference numerals due to the presence of analogous structures that are merely arranged or shaped differently. In more specific detail, each of these

embodiments provides an ampoule dispenser 400 which comprises a fluid cell 410 and a neck 412. Flanges, caps, gripping tabs, etc. are not shown in these examples, but could be included in accordance with principles of the present disclosure. The fluid cells each include a first portion 420, a second portion 422, and a deformable hinge 424. With respect to FIG. 1 1 , the first portion and the second portion are arbitrarily chosen, as either could act as the first portion or the second portion, or wee versa. As with the other examples, the deformable hinge can provide a physical discontinuity or weakness in the material between the second portion and the first portion so that the first portion is invertible within the second portion along the deformable hinge. FIG. 13 sets forth yet another example of an alternative design prepared in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. In more specific detail, an ampoule dispenser 500 comprises a fluid cell 510, a neck 512, and a pair of flanges 514, as previously described. The fluid cell itself includes a first portion 520, a second portion 522, and a deformable hinge 524, also as previously described. As with the other examples, the deformable hinge can provide a physical discontinuity or weakness in the material between the second portion and the first portion so that the first portion is invertible within the second portion along the deformable hinge. However, with this embodiment, rather than a groove within the neck and a protrusion on an applicator tip that interlocks with the groove, as shown in FIG. 7, the ampoule dispenser includes exterior threads for receiving a luer lock fitting 610, such as from a syringe 600.

Thus, an example feature of the embodiment shown in FIG. 13 relates to an alternative method of mixing fluids or suspensions together. Previously, it has been described that a fluid or suspension can be mixed within the fluid cell by squeezing and releasing the fluid cell. However, in this example, multiple materials can be kept apart within two separate structures, i.e. Part A in the ampoule dispenser 500 and Part B in the syringe 600, or vice versa. Thus, by engaging the luer lock fitting 610 of the syringe 600 with the threads 530 of the ampoule dispenser 500, Part A and Part B can be mixed by pushing material back and forth between the two devices, i.e. pushing the plunger (not shown) on the syringe, followed by pushing first portion 520 into the second portion 522 along the deformable hinge 524, or wee versa, and repeating as needed. It is noted that merely moving material back and forth from one device to the other does not necessarily mean that the Part A and Part B will always be thoroughly mixed. To address mixing (or using a fluid Part B to rinse the ampoule dispenser) with the device described herein, the collapsible nature of the ampoule provides more complete volume movement, thus emptying the syringe into the bulb, then emptying the bulb into the syringe to make sure mixing is adequate, and repeated as needed. Once the mixing step is completed, the ampoule dispenser could be emptied and removed from the syringe, or the syringe could be emptied and removed from the ampoule dispenser, as either device could be used as the primary container for delivery of mixed

material. Regardless of the embodiment or design selected for use, various materials can be selected for use in preparing the ampoule dispenser and/or the applicator tip. The ampoule may, for example, be prepared from a softer elastomeric material, and the applicator tip may be prepared from a more rigid plastic, though this is not required. In one specific embodiment, the material of the ampoule can be a blended polymeric material to provide a more flexible or elastic feel than would be present with a typical 100 wt% low density polyethylene (LDPE). One polymer blend that provides good consistency is a 2:1 to 1 :2 weight ratio blend of a low density polyethylene (e.g., Westlake EN1817AA) and a polyolefin elastomer (e.g., DOW Engage 8450). In one specific example, this polymer blend can be prepared at about a 1 :1 weight ratio. In another embodiment, an acceptable polymer blend can comprise a 1 :1 to 3:1 weight ratio of a low density polyethylene (Westlake EN1817AA) and a propylene-based elastomer (e.g., ExxonMobil Vistamaxx 6102). In one specific example, this polymer blend can be prepared at about a 7:3 weight ratio. Other polymers or polymer blends can likewise be used, as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after considering the present disclosure. In selecting polymers or polymer blends, one property that may be desirable is to provide polymers or blends that make it easy for a user to re-mix the contents of the fill cell by squeezing and releasing the application fluid within the fluid cell.

With some application fluids, there can be chemical separation of the fluid during storage. Thus, mixing of the contents of the fluid cell or bulb can be useful prior to removing the cap for use. Materials that have some flexibility can be used to mix the application fluids within the fluid cell. Furthermore, mixing can enhanced when the fluid cell is not completely full of application fluid. Thus, in one example, the application fluid can be present in the fluid cell based on fluid cell capacity at 25% to 75% by volume. In another example, the application fluid can be present in the fluid cell based on fluid cell capacity at 50% to 90% by volume. In another example, the application fluid can be present in the fluid cell based on fluid cell capacity at greater than 75% to 100% by volume.

Suitable application fluids that can be predisposed in the fluid cell include dental and medical fluids where small amount may be needed, particularly in a disposable applicator device. For examples, application fluids can include fluoride varnishes, whitening fluids or gels, prophy paste, topical medicines such as local anesthetics, or the like. While the disclosure has been described with reference to certain examples, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, changes, omissions, and substitutions can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. It is intended, therefore, that the invention be limited only by the scope of the following claims.

Claims

What Is Claimed Is: 1 . An ampoule dispenser, comprising:

a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion;

a deformable hinge positioned between the first portion and the second portion, wherein when the first portion is inverted within the second portion along the deformable hinge, the first portion does not exhibit a rebounding bias and remains inverted within second portion; and

a neck attached to the second portion of the fluid cell and having an opening therethrough in fluid communication with the fluid cell.

2. The ampoule dispenser of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of flanges positioned on both the neck and the second portion of the fluid cell, wherein the flanges do not extend to the first portion of the fluid cell.

3. The ampoule dispenser of claim 2, wherein the plurality of flanges are positioned at about 180° from one another around the neck and second portion of the fluid cell.

4. The ampoule dispenser of claim 3, wherein the neck is angled along a plane coincident with the plurality of flanges.

5. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the neck is a straight angled neck or a curved angled neck.

6. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the neck is positioned along the deformable hinge and is partially attached to the first portion and partially attached to the second portion.

7. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the fluid cell is substantially spherical.

8. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the fluid cell has a flattened spherical shape with a circular deformable hinge.

9. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the deformable hinge comprises a discontinuity or weakness of material around the fluid cell.

10. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first portion is substantially completely invertible within the second portion.

1 1 . The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a removable cap attached to the neck portion at a location distal to the fluid cell.

12. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 1 1 , wherein the ampoule dispenser is formed of a polymer blend.

13. The ampoule dispenser of claim 12, wherein the polymer blend is a 2:1 to 1 :2 weight ratio of a low density polyethylene and a polyolefin elastomer.

14. The ampoule dispenser of claim 12, wherein the polymer blend is a 1 :1 to 3:1 weight ratio of a low density polyethylene and a propylene-based elastomer.

15. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising locking mechanism positioned on the neck at a location distal to the fluid cell.

16. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising an application tip with a channeling tube configured for fluid communication with the opening in the neck.

17. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 16, further comprise an application tip attached to a distal end of the neck.

18. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 17, wherein an interior volume of the fluid cell to an interior volume of the neck is at a ratio of at least

1 :1 .

19. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 18, wherein an interior volume of the fluid cell to an interior volume of the neck is at a ratio of 5:1 to 50:1 .

20. The ampoule dispenser of one of claims 1 to 19, further comprising an application fluid pre-dispensed within the fluid cell.

21 . The ampoule dispenser of claim 20, wherein the application fluid is present in the fluid cell based on fluid cell capacity at 25% to 75% by volume.

22. The ampoule dispenser of claim 20, wherein the application fluid is present in the fluid cell based on fluid cell capacity at 50% to 90% by volume.

23. The ampoule dispenser of claim 20, wherein the application fluid is present in the fluid cell based on fluid cell capacity at greater than 75% to 100% by volume.

24. A method of storing and using an application fluid, comprising:

obtaining an ampoule dispenser containing an application fluid, the ampoule dispenser comprising:

i) a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, ii) a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough, the proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell, and

iii) a cap attached to the distal end of the neck;

removing the cap from the neck; and inverting the first portion into the second portion, thereby ejecting application fluid from the fluid cell, through the neck, and out of the distal end, wherein after ejecting the application fluid, the first portion remains positioned within the second portion without a rebounding bias.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the fluid cell further comprises a deformable hinge positioned between the first portion and the second portion.

26. The method of one of claims 24 to 25, wherein the ampoule dispenser further comprises a plurality of flanges positioned on both the neck and the second portion of the fluid cell, and wherein the flanges do not extend to the first portion of the fluid cell.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the step of removing the cap includes using the plurality of flanges as handles to prevent squeezing of the fluid cell and inadvertent ejection of the fluid.

28. The method of one of claims 24 to 27, further comprising the step of mixing the fluid by squeezing and releasing the fluid cell prior to removing the cap.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the fluid cell is only partially filled with the fluid, thereby allowing for enhanced movement of the fluid within the fluid cell during mixing.

30. A method of storing and mixing a two part application fluid, comprising:

obtaining an ampoule dispenser containing Part A of a two part application fluid, the ampoule dispenser comprising a fluid cell having i) a first portion that is invertible into a second portion, ii) a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough, the proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell, obtaining a syringe that connects with the neck and contains Part B of the two part application fluid,

mixing Part A with Part B by i) inverting the first portion of the fluid cell into the second portion, thereby ejecting Part A from the fluid cell, through the neck, and into the syringe, and ii) ejecting Part B from the syringe into the ampoule dispenser.

31 . A system for dispensing an application fluid, comprising:

an ampoule dispenser comprising:

i) a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion, wherein the first portion does not exhibit a rebounding bias after inversion, and

ii) a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough, the proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell; and

an application tip comprising a channeling tube configured to connect to and receive an application fluid from the neck and dispense the application fluid from a distal end thereof.

32. The system of claim 31 , wherein the distal end of the neck includes a locking mechanism that interlocks with the application tip when the application tip is connected to the ampoule dispenser.

33. The system of one of claims 31 to 32, wherein the fluid cell further comprises a deformable hinge positioned between the first portion and the second portion.

34. The system of one of claims 31 to 33, further comprising plurality of flanges positioned on both the neck and the second portion of the fluid cell, wherein the flanges do not extend to the first portion of the fluid cell.

35. The system of one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the application tip is a brush tip, a flocked tip, an application tube tip, or a bristle tip.

36. The system of one of claims 31 to 35, wherein the ampoule dispenser and the application tip are separate parts that are joined prior to use.

37. The system of one of claims 31 to 35, wherein the ampoule dispenser and the application tip are integrated together to form a single part.

38. The system of one of claims 31 to 37, wherein the ampoule dispenser further comprises a cap attached to the distal end of the neck.

39. The system of one of claims 31 to 38, wherein the ampoule dispenser contains the application fluid.

40. The system of claim 39, wherein the application fluid is present in the fluid cell based on fluid cell capacity at 25% to 75% by volume.

41 . The system of claim 39, wherein the application fluid is present in the fluid cell based on fluid cell capacity at greater than 75% to 100% by volume.

42. A system for mixing a two part application fluid, comprising:

an ampoule dispenser containing Part A of a two part application fluid, the ampoule dispenser, comprising i) a fluid cell having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being invertible within the second portion, wherein the first portion does not exhibit a rebounding bias after inversion, and ii) a neck having a proximal end, a distal end, and an opening therethrough, the proximal end attached to the second portion of the fluid cell; and

a syringe containing Part B of a two part application fluid, the syringe configured to connect with the neck of the ampoule dispenser,

wherein Part A and Part B are mixable by alternatingly i) inverting the first portion of the ampoule dispenser into the second portion to eject Part A into the syringe, and ii) ejecting Part B from the syringe into the ampoule dispenser, until the two part application fluid is mixed.