AU2013308838A1 - Dispensing applicator for fluids - Google Patents

Abstract

A band-held dispensing applicator comprising a source of fluid, a frangible applicator tip attached to the fluid source, and an absorbent member attached to the frangible applicator tip. The applicator may be applicable for a medical purpose. When the frangible applicator tip is broken, the fluid flows from the source to the absorbent member, spread on a surface. The frangible applicator tip may comprise a support element permanently connected to the fluid source, a relatively rigid tongue element, and a frangible region there between. The tongue element may comprise ribs for reinforcing the tongue element. The applicator tip may comprise a semi-permeable or non-permeable cover to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of the fluid.

Description

WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 DISPENSING APPLICATOR FOR FLUIDS CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application daims priority from US Ser. No. 13/601,755 for a DISPENSING APPLICATOR FOR FLUIDS, filed August 31, 2012, which is a continuationmn-part of, and claims priority from, U.S. 5cr No. 13/306,681 for a DISPENSING APPIICATOR FOR FLUIDS, filed November 29, 2011, which is a coinuation of, and claims priority from, U.S. Ser, No, I1/740,910 for a DISPENSING APPLICATOR FOR FLUIDS filed April 26, 2007, and nowv US. Pat, No. 8.083.425' which is a continuation-n-part of, and claims priority from, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/138,142 for a DISPENSING APPLICATOR FOR FLUIDS, filed MTay 26, 2005, and now U.S. Patent No. 7,614,811, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein fully by reference, AND this application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority from, U.S. er. No. 12/596,103 for a DISPENSING APPLICATOR FOR FLUIDS, filed January 4, 2011, which. is a contination of, and claims priority from, U.S. Scr, No. 11/740,920 for a DISPENSING APPLICATOR FOR FLUIDS, filed April 27, 2007, and now U.S. Patent No. 8,186,897, which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority froni, U. S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 /138,142 for a DISPENSING APPLICATOR FOR FLUIDS, filed May 26, 2005, and now U.S. Patent No. 7,614811, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein fully by reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed in general to a device for swabbing a surface (e.g., skin) that is gripped by a user at one end and has a sponge or absorbent material at the other end, Further, the present invention is directed to such device for swabbing WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 a surface having a source of a fluid (e..g disinfectant or meditarnent) in connunication with the sponge or absorbent material, Specifically, the present invention is directed to such a fluid-containing device for swabbing a surface further having an internal means that may be fractured or separated for the purpose of allowing the fluid to flow from the fluid source to the sponge or absorbent material Further, the present invention is directed to such -a fluid-containing means for swabbing a surface further having an anvil structure internal to the fluid-containing means with any of a variety of configurations for causing the fracture of the fracture means, BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Applicators consisting of a wooden or plastic tube having a bud of cotton on one or both ends, are widely used for numerous purposes, such as the topical application of substances to the human body, A demand exists for a product of this kind, which serves not oldy as an applicator, but also as a container for substances that are to be applied to the human body. To be practical, such a device would have to have a manually frangible portion that can readily be broken, while at the same ime being so constructed so as to prevent inadvertent fracture, An applicator of this nature would be useful for numerous purposes. Prior dispensing applicators allow an excess amount of fluid to flow too quickly, and the fluid tends to Pool on the surface. Depending upon the fluid being dispensed, such pooling can lead to patient discomfort, chemical burns, and even electrical shock if the dispensed fluid comes into contact with electrical leads attached to the patient's body, Moreover, in prior art dispensing applicators, the dispensed fluid tends to accumulate at the rear-most portion of the absorbent mernber, which is closest to the fluid source, instead of preferably evenly spreading throughout the absorbent member.

WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 As the volume of the dispensed fluid gradually increases at the rear portion of the absorbent member, the fluid begins to uncontrollably drip, thus, causing substantial inconvemence to a user. A need, therefore, exists for a dispensing applicator overcoming the above identified drawbacks of the k-vno related art, In particular, a further need exists for a hand-heldispensing applicator that has a simple structure alo wing the practitor to deliver fiuid to the surfaces to be treated in a controllable manner Another need exis r a dospcnsig applicator that has an easily actuatable structure requiring mininal rpphtation of manual force. Further, a need exists for a hand-held dispensing pplicator that has a structure mninimizing uncontrollable distribution of fluid, $UMMARY OF THE INVENTION In light of the foregoing an embodiment of the present invention provides a Iandheld dispensing applicator comprising a source of fluid, a frangible applicator tip atached to the fluid source, and an absorbent member attached to the franile applicator tip, When the frangible applicator tip is broken. fluid flows from the sourc to the absorbent member, whereby the fluid is applied and spread on a surface. Preferably, the fluid is applied and spread on a surface in a controlled amount. Preferably, the fluid source is in the shape of a hollow tube container that is integrally formed, as a single piece, from a relatively rigid synthetic resinous material, Preferably, the frangible applicator tip comprises a support element permanently connected to the fluid source, a relatively rigid tongue element extending outwardly of the support element at an end of the container, and a frangible region therebetween, Extending through the support element is a fluid conduit that is open at the end attached to the fluid source and sealed by the tongue element at the end attached to the absorbent member. By deflecting the tongue element relative to the support element, with a force of substantially predetermined magnitude, the frangible region between the tongue and WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 4 support elements will fracture, thereby permitting fluid to flow from the fluid source through the conduit, and into the attached absorbent member. Preferably, the tongue element comprises ribs for reinforcing the tongue element to resist unintentional breaking of the frangible region. More preferably, the applicator tip comprises a semi permeable or nonvpermeable cover disposed around the frangible region to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of the fluid in the absorbent member. In another embodiment, the dispensing applicator comprises a mounting body which has a stem piece extending from a mounting body top part, and a lower body part which carries at an underside of the latter, an absorbent applicator. An elongated fluid container having a irst end that is attachable at a second. opposite end thereof, and with a snap fit, in the stem piece Optionally reading of the first end of the fluid container may be used to secure to the stem piece. The container includes a frangible region remote from said first end and a rigid tongue element extends longitudinally hor the frangible region, a tip end of the tongue element defining the container's opposite second end A fracture anvil is preferably disposed in the stem piece. To fracture the container frangible region in order to release fluid therefrom and into the absorbent applicator, a relative movement between the container, ie,, the tongue element thereof, and the fracture anvil is effected This is done with the tongue element in contact with %he fracture anvil. The contact and. relative movement produce the rupture of the frangible region, and, more specifically, at the joiner location of the tongue element and frangible region, In one form, the fracture anvil is a cylindrical body having a cruciforn passage extending therethrough and which receives the flat blade-like tongue element, In a second form, the fracture anvil is a cylindrical body having a partial or one-half cruciform passage extending therethrough and which receives the flat blade-like tongue element. By effecting a relative rotation between the fracture anvil and the container, tIhe fracture of the frangible region results. Optionally, the cruciform passage may WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 extend completely through the fracture anvil, or may only extend partially through the fracture anvil In another form, the fracture anvil is a cylindrical body having a partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage (eg, see Figure 42A) extending therethrough and which receives the flat blade-like tongue element, By effecting a relative rotation between the fracture anvil and the container, the partial fracture of the frangible region results, Optionally, the partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage may extend completely through the fracture anvil, or may only extend partially through the fracture anviL In still another form, the fracture anvil is a truncated cylinder received in the stem piece, By urging the container axially into the stem piece and against an inclined end face of the fracture anvil, the tongue element is deflected laterally from its normal disposition to cause the rupture at the joinder location thereof with the remainder frangible region With the joinder structure ruptured, the fluid contents release from the container. Flow gutters or channels are defined in the fracture anvil to insure free contents flow from the container past or through the fracture anvil to the absorbent applicator. The arrangement of the tongue element and its structure is designed such as to allow retention of at least one ribbon residue material connecting the tongue element to the frangible region precluding passing of the tongue element into a contents flow channel wherein it could impede or block flow to the absorbent applicator, A further feature provides a snap fit cap fitted on an opposite contents filling end of the container opposite the tongue member end, and provided with a seal that excludes any possible and contaminating air presence in the contents at the container end. Optionally, the cap may be screwed on or permanently affixed with glue or some other adhesive.

WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 6 The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention vill become apparent from the following description, read in conjunction with the acompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate the same elements, REF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A further understanding of the present invention can be obtained by reference to a preferred embodiment set forth in the ilhlustrations of the accompanying drawings. Although the illustrated preferred eibodinent is rnerely exemplary of methods. strictures and compositions for carrying out the present invention, both the organization and method of the invention, in general, together with further objectives ard advantages thereof, may be more easily understood by reference to the drawings ard the following description, The drawing gs are not intended to liit the scope of this invention, which is set forth with particularity in the claims as appended or as srtbsequently amended, but merely to clarify and exemplify the invention For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the following drawings in which: FIG,1 is a perspective view of a dispensing applicator according to the present invention; FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the dispensing applicator of Fig. 1; FIG 3A is a top plan view of a preferred applicator tip for the dispensing applicator of Fig, 1; FIG. 31B is a side of the applicator tip of Fig. 3A wherein the frangible region is broken; FIG, 3C is a top plan view of the applicator tip of Fig, 3B wherein apertures are formed in the broken frangible region; WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a first preferred tongue member for an loplicator tip for the dispensing applicator of Pig I FIGi 4-B is a perspective view of a second preferred tongue member for an applicator tip for the dispensing apphcator of Fig. FIG, 4C is a perspective view of a third preferred tongue member for an apiicator tip for the dispensing applicator of Fig 1; FIG, 4D is a perspective view of a fourth preferred tongue member for an applicator tip for the dispensing applicator of Fig. 1; FIG 5A is a side cross-sectional view of a dispensing applicator constructed in acordance with a further embodiment of the invention; FIG. 5B is a diagrammatic view illustrating two positions of the dispensing applicator of Fig, 5A; FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of a dispensing applicator structured in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention and showing a side cross-sectional view of the applicator tip; FIG. 7 is a perspective detail view of an applicator tip for use in a dispensing applicator according to the present invention having a semi-cover surrounding the frangible portion to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of the fluid into the absorbent member. FIG. 8 is a top cross-sectional view of a further aspect of an embodiment of an applicator according to the present invention; FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of another aspect of an embodiment of the dispensing applicator configured with a collecting and guiding means for ininmizing unintended evacuation of fluid via a proximal end of a fluid absorbent member enabling a preferred directional fluid flow;, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 8 FIG. I0A is a side sectional view of still another etnbodimenti of the present inXventi on FIG. 10B is a rear sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG, 1IA; FIG. 11A is a side cross-sectnonal view of another dispensing applicator according to the present invention; FIG, 1llB is a side cross-sectional view of a further aspect of an embodiment of the dispensing applicator according to the present invention; FIG. 12 is a left front side perspective view of another embodiment of dispensing applicator wherein a fluid containing source is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting body stem piece in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fuid flow being effected with a relative rotative movement between the fluid source container and a fracture anvil in the mounting body; FIG, 13 is a right side exploded view of the dispensing applicator shown in FIG. FIG 14 is a top plan view of the fluid source container, the container being closed at one end, an attachment body being located remote from said container at one end, a frangible length region including a tongue element extending longitudinally front said attachment body; FIG 15 is an exploded perspective view of tbhe applicator portion in the circle area 15 of FIG. 14, the tongue element being separated a distance from the attachment body frangible region so that the fluid container contents outflow apertures produced when the tongue element is fractured from the frangible length region can be seen; FIG, 16 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a fracture anvil shown in the circle area 16 in FIi. 13 of a fracture anvil removably inserted in an applicator mounting block part of the applicator head, the fracture anvil having a cruciform passage for reception of the fluid source container tongue element, the WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 9 fracture anvil being employed to effect fracture of the frangible region-tongue element binder on a relative rotatable movement between said container and said fracture anvil; FIG, 17 is a side cross-sectional view of the fracture anvil taken along the line 17 in F1G,16; FIG. 18 is an exploded left bottom side perspective view of the mounting block vhich receives an absorbent applicator at a block bottom side' FIG, 19 is a left side view partly in section, partly in cross-section, of the counting block, the absorbent applicator being affixed at the block bottom side, and an absorbent swab member being affixed to a block front side adjacent to said bottom side, tie fluid source container being depicted in position just before the tongue carrying end ttereof is inserted into the mounting block; FIG, 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of an upper inlet part of the counting block sten piece indicated in the circle 20 portion in FIG, 19, there being an annular sot inside and adjacent entry to the upper inlet, said slot defiing a detent for retaining a flange on the container to effect snap fit of the container to the applicator mountng body. FIG. 21 is a left side view similar to FIG. 19 showing the mounting block with the tongue element positioned in the cruciform passage of the fracture anvil in pre tiacture condition, the container being snap fitted to the mounting block: FIG. 22 is a cross-section view taken on the line 22-22 in FI1. 21: FIG. 23 is a view similar to Fi. 21 but showing the post fracture position of the fracture anvil, which has been rotated approximately ninety degrees front the position it occupied in FIG. 21 FIG. 24 is a cross-section view taken on the line 24-24 in FIG, 23, FIG, 25 is a view similar to FIG, 23 except it is more broken away to depict how on occurrence of fracture of the frangible piece fluid starts to flow from the apertures at the fracture point and disperses through the absorbent applicator; WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 10 FIG. 26 is a view similar to FIG. 25 but showing a more profuse flow of fluid occurring following fracturing of the frangible piece; FIG. 27 is a left side view of the applicator dispenser depicting the orientation of the mounting block to present an absorbent swab to a position for use thereof; FIG. 28 is a right side exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a dispenser employing a fracture anvil for fracturing the tongue element at its joinder point with the franggible length thereby to initiate release of the container contents into the absorbent applicator; FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a fragmentary length portion of the container in half section taken on line 29-29 in FIG. 28 depicting the manner of the capping of the container contents filling end; FIG. 30 is an exploded fragmentary perspective view of several components embodied in the capped end structure of the container; FIG. 31 is a fragmentary perspective view of the applicator tongue element carrying end in circle portion 31 of FIG, 28, depiclting the tongue element as fractured separated from the frangible section solely for the purpose of illustrating the apertures from which container fluid contents issue therefrom into the absorbent applicator, it being understood that in the embodiment where the tongue element is fractured with urging against a fracture anvil, it is preferable that the tongue element on fracturing, have retained structure by which it remains attached to the frangible length while still allowing neaning-ful fluid contents flow; FI0 32 is a perspective view of a fracture anvil shown in circle 32 of FIG, 28, depicting detail of a first form of truncated cylindrical fracture anvil wherein a flat chord face is formed in the anvil cylindrical periphery to define with an inner encircling wall face of the stein piece, a flow channel in the mounting block through which the fluid contents communicate from the ruptured container to the absorbent applicator; FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a second form of fracture anvil is provided with a gutter-like fluid contents -flow channel at its cylindrical periphery; WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a third form of frcture anvil wherein its ertiphery is provided with plural gutter-like fluid contents flow channels at its cylindrical periphery FIGS. 35-37 are side views partly in sections of the applicator showing the urging direction travel of the container to engage the tongue element against the ticlined end fracture face of the fracture anvil to effect fracture of the tongue element 4 its joinder to the frangible section, the moved fractured position of the tongue dement being depicted in dashed lines, and the release of fluid flow about the securely stained but fractured section; FIG. 38 shows a top cross-section view of an alternative construction of a dispenser system containing a head member secured to a dispensing fluid container and surrounded by a foam dispersing member; FIG. 39 shows a side of the dispenser system of FIG, 38 durng use FIG, 40 shows a side partial cross-section view of the dispenser system of FIG, FIG 41A is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of a mounting block for a fluid dispensing applicator according to the invention which receives an absorbent applicator at a block bottom side; FIG, 4113 is a cross-section view taken along the line 41.13-41B in FIG, 4]A; FIG, 41C is a cross-section view taken along the line 41C~41 C in FIG, 41A; FIG. 42A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a fracture anvil for being removably inserted in an applicator mounting block part of the applicator head, the fracture anvil having a partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage for reception of the fluid source container tongue element, the fracture anvil being employed to effect partial fracture of the frangible region-tongue element joinder on a relative rotatable movement between said container and said fracture anvil: FIG. 42B is a cross-section view of the fracture anvil taken along the line 421 4213 in FIG, 42A; WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 FIG. 43 is an exploded left front side perspective view of another embodinent of dispensing applicator wherein a fluid containing source is receivably attachable to an oplicator mounting body stem piece in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid. 1low being effected with a relative rotative movement between the fluid source container and a fracture anvil in the mounting body; FIG. 44 is a cross-section view taken along the line 44-44 in FIG, 43 showing native position of the tongue member within the partial cruciform, partial semi circular passage of the fracture anvil; FIG, 45 is an exploded left bottom side perspective view of still another ehnbodirnent of a dispensing applicator wherein a fluid containing source is receivably atachable to an applicator mountOng body stem piece in snap fit connection the rwith, initiation of fluid flow being effeted with a relative rotative movement between the fLid source container and a fractAre anvil in the mounting bod>, and further showig a dye packet assembly having top and bottom diffusers and a dye tablet; FIG, 46 is a cross-section view taken along the line 46-46 in FIG 45 showing the partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage of the fracture anvil therein; FIG. 47 is a top plan view of the assembled dispensing applicator shown in FIG. 45; FIG. 48 is a cross-section view of the assembled fluid dispensing applicator taken along the line 48-48 in FIfG. 47; FIG, 49A is a top perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a diffuser element for the dye packet assembly showing the internal configuration thereof; FIG. 49B is a bottom plan view of the diffuser element shown in FIG. 49A; FIG 49C is a cross-section view of the diffuser element taken along the line 49C-49C in FIG. 49 ; FIG. 50 is an exploded left front side perspective view of still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator wherein a fluid containing source is receivably attacihable to an applicator mounting body stem piece in snap fit connection therewith, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 13 initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative rotative movement between the fluid source container and a fracture anvil in the mounting body; FIG. 51 is a cross-section view taken on the line 51-51 in FIG, 50 showing the partial cruciform partial semi-circular passage of the fracture anvil' FIG, 52 is a side perspective view of the assembled dispensing applicator shown in FIG. 50; FIG. 53 is a cross-section view of the assembled fluid dispensing applicator taken along the line 53-53 in FIG, 52; FIG. 54A is an elevated perspective view of still another alternative embodiment of an assembled dispensing applicator wherein a fluid containing source is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting body stem piece in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative downward movement between the fluid source container and a fracture member in the mounting body 16 54B is an exploded ieft front side perspective view of the dispensing applicator shown in FIG, 54A wherein a fluid containing source is receivably attachable to an apliaor mounting body stem piece in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative downward movement between the fluid source container and a fracture member in the mounting body; FIG, 54C is a side cross-section view of the assembled dispensing applicator of FIG. 54A taken along the line 54C-54C; FIG. 541) is a front cross-section view of the assembled dispensing applicator of FIG, 54A taken along the line 54D-54D; FIG, 55 is an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of a fluid dispersing head for use with the fluid dispensing applicator according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; FIG. 56A is a side view of the fluid dispersing head of FIG, 55; FIG, 56B is a top plan view of the fluid dispersing head of FIG. 55: WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 14 FIG. 56C is a front cross-section view of the fluid dispersing head of FIG, 55 taken along the line 56C-56C in FIG. 56A further showing the relative position of an applicator tip member and fracture member within the fluid dispersing head; FIG. 56D is a left side cross-section view of the fluid dispersing head of FIG. 55 taken along the line 56D-56D in FIG, 56B further showing the relative position of an applicator tip member and fracture member within the fluid dispersing head; FIG. 57 is a bottom view of the fluid dispersing head of FIG, 55, FIG. 58A is a top end plan view of an alternative embodiment of an applicator mounting block according to the invention having an opening on one side for the dispersing of fluid to only one side of a fluid dispensing head; FIG. 5813 is a first side view of the applicator mounting block of FIG. 58A showing no opening for dispersing fluid to the fluid dispersing head; FIG. 58C is a second side view of the applicator mounting block of FIG, 58A; FIG. 581) is a third side view of the applicator mounting block of FIG. 58A showing the opening for dispersing of fluid to the fluid dispersing head; and FIG, 581 is a bottom end view of the applicator mounting block of FIGs, 58AD showing the partial crucform, partial semi-circular passage of the fracture anvil, DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS As required., a detailed illustrative embodimeni of the present invention is disclosed herein. However, techniques, systems, compositions and operating structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from those in the di s-closed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure arid to provide a basis for the claims herein which define the scope of the present invention, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments of the invention Lat are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar Inference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not to precise scale. for purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional terms, such as top, bottom. up. down, over, above, and below may be used with respect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in ny manner. The words "connect," "ouple," and similar terms with their inflectional mnorphemes do not necessarily denote direct and unmediate connections, but also include connections through mediate elements or devices' Referring now to the drawings, Figs, I and 2 in particular, illustrate a dispensing applicator according to the present invention generally indicated as reference numeral 1. Dispensig applicator I comprises an absorbent applicator member 8, a fluid source 10, and an applicator tip 15. Absorbent member 8 may be of any suitable shape, such as cubic, cylindrical, conical, or wedgelike, and may comprise any suitable absorbent material, such as cotton or sponge, Fluid source 10, or handle, may have any suitable shape. As shown in Fig. 1, fluid source 10 is preferably a hollow, generally cylindrical body, The end of fluid source body located adjacent to absorbent member 8 is preferably sealed thereto at a joint or seam 30, such as by heat sealing, to enclose the fluid substance contained within fluid source body 10. Applicator tip 15 comprises an attachment member 17 and tongue member 18 joined thereto by a tapered frangible region or juncture 19. Tongue member 18 is preferably a flat and broad shape that extends a distance into absorbent member 8, such that tongue member 18 is longer than it is wide (see Figs. 4A to 4D), It should be noted that the attachment 'mber 17 is relatively thick adjacent the fluid source body 10, and tapers toward frangible juncture 19. Absorbent WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 16 member 8 is preferably connected to attachment member 1' and/or fluid source body The manner of utilizing dispensing applicator 1 will be sel-evident, and simply involves holding the dispensing applicator I with the absorbent application member 8 against an application surface. Dispensing applicator I is held such that tongue member 18 is at an acute angle (i e., substantially parallel) to the application surface, Sufficient downward pressure of tongue member 18 against the application surface vil deflect tongue inember 18 from the central axis c (see Figs 2. 4A, A) of the fluid source body 10. At a pre-determined amount of deflection, the frangible juncture 19 will fracture or break proximate the intersection thereof but will not separate. Fracture of the frangible juncture 19 will desirably be achieved by the application of approximately 0,25 to 5 pounds of force of tongue member 18 against the application surface and will cause opening for fluid flow proximate punctures or apertures2 as will be discussed more fully below. Referring still to Fig, 1, a dip mold process may be used to make source body 10 applicator tip 1 5, or both, The dip molding process begins with preheating of a male mold made from a material having relatively high heat capacity and coefficient of thermal conductivity. This heated mold is then placed in a fluidized bed of meltable particulate resinous material for a time needed to provide a coating of a desired thickness The mold with melted resinous material is then removed from the fluidized bed, heated a second time and cooled: Finally the tube component is stripped from the mold As noted above, it is important for the proper functioning of the applicator that the tube be fabricated from a material that is sufficiently rigid to enable manual fracture of the frangible end portion. If the material is too flexible; deflection of the stem will not produce the desired result, On the other hand, if the material is excessively rigid and brittle, the possibility of an inadvertent fracture will exist, and compression of the WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 bdy portion to promote flow would be precluded due to the likelihood of cracking, or smply because excess force is required. A variety of synthetic resinous materials may b, utilized, the selection of which. will be evident to those skilled in the art, The resin nust have a sufficiently low melt viscosity to permit coverage of all niold surfaces, and itmust produce a nonporous and pinhole-free structure. The polymer will normally be a thermoplastic, and exemplary materials include polypropylene, high density piyethylene, rigid polyvinyl chloride and nylon, The tongue member of the applicator tip will preferably be elongated to facilitate auachrent thereof to the absorbent member 8, However, it is not essential that the tnguc member 18 be of any specific shape and, for example, may be rectangular or elindrical. Regardless of the shape of tongue member 18. it is essential that suitable enforcing ribs, as described hereinabove, be included to prevent unintentional braking or separation of frangible portion 19, Moreover, the shapeof tongue member IS will dictate the shape of the orifice formed in applicator tip 15 where the tongue number 18 is fractured for fluid release. Accordingly, the fow rate and overall amount of fluid applied to an application surface by dispensing applicator is a function of several factors, including the shape and strength of tongue member 18 (and the resulting orifice), the porosity of absorbent member 8, the density of the fluid, and the force employed by the user when breaking frangible portion 19 and pressing absorbent nemnber 8 against the application surface. Determining the optimal flow rate for a given application is well within the ability of one skilled in the art and., therefore, will not be elaborated upon herein. As stated above, the porous member may be made of any suitable material(s). most notably open cedl, soft, and pliant sponge-like foam, that may be, for example, a polyurethane composition. The choice of material will depend largely upon the particular application and the characteristics of tongue member 18 and the fluid, held in source body 10 WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 18 in its normal form, source body 10 will be of circular crosssection, However, tther shapes are also believed to be feasible, The source body 10 may have a square, viangular, or rectangular cross- section., and the shape may indeed be asymmetrical in tross section and of dissimilar shapes at different points along its length. it will be ppreciated therefore that, as used herein the term "diameter" is to be construed in a road sense, so as to be applicable to non-circular eleimernts corresponding to those siown, and to refer to the maximurn cross-sectional dimension of the element. though normally completely hollow, the source body 10 may include appropriate rinTforcenient elements, such as internal support pillars, to provide adequate overall srength and rigidity, while permitting the source body 10 to have a thinner than would otherwise be possible- Likewise, source body 10 may include a solid portion, for erampie, to be gripped while breaking frangible portion 19, so that source body 10 will not be prematurely compressed or squeezed, which might result in too much fluid fbwing too quickyI). into absorbent member 8. As shown in Figs, 3B and 3C, breaking frangible juncture 19 will result in the formation of one or more apertures 12 through which fluid from source body 10 may flow into absorbent member 8 (not shown, but fluid flow is shown from apertures 12), such that tongue portion 18 may remain flexibly fixed to frangible juncture member 19 and is preferably prohibited from separation. In other words, fracture of the region proxinrate apertures is required, but tongue portion 18 remains flexibly joined along a hinge line and is strengthened by rib members 31, as will be discussed, In its most preferable form, all portions of the source body 10 will have a wail thickness that is substantially uniform at a value of about 0.005 inch to about 0'025 inch (about 0.127 mm -to about 0.635 mm), but may become thinner proximate regions 12 to urge ready fracture, The source body 10 is piferably made of polypropylene having a density of 0,897 g/cm 2 and a flexural modulus of about 150 Kpsi (about 1035 MPa), as determined by ASTM method 79011, Th.e source body 10 is preferably about 6 inches to WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 19 tout 10 inches in overall length, and about 025 to about 1.0 inches in diameter, so as o be convenient to grasp and still contain sufficient fluid for a single application. The applicator tp 15 is about I to 3 inches long, and about 0.325 inches in diameter. The frangible juncture 19 will preferably have a thickness of about 0.0005 bob to about 0.002 inch (about 0,013 mm to about 0,050 rm) The one or more pertures 12, which are produced by the fracture of frangible juncture 19, but not the sparation of tongue member 18, may be of any suitable size,. but preferably have a vidth and height that is substantially correlaed to the width and thickness of large ribs I1, 32 (see Fig, 3). Referring to Figs. 3A and 3C, tongue member 18 preferably comprises a plurality :f reinforcing ribs 31, 32 Due to the reinforcing ribs and the resultant rigidity of tingue member 18, there will be reduced flex along the length of tongue 18, and an applied force on tongue member 18 will be effectively entirely transferred to and coentrated. at frangible juncture 19 proximate apeortures 12. The result wil be the reliable fracturing of frangible juncture 19 proximate apertures 12, which fracturing results in the formation of one or more apertures 12 of suitable size on the same side as the force application to permit the fluid within the fluid source body 10 to be discharged therefrom and distributed across a predetermined area of absorbent application member 8 (Fig, 1), As noted above, it will generally be desirable for the material forming fluid source body 10 to be suffciently thin to permit sone compression of fluid source body 10, so as to enable discharge of a liquid therein at a faster rate than would otherwise occur, and/or to promote the flow of the fluid, especially if the fluid is relatively viscous, While in a first use apertures 12 may only fracture along a portion of the aperture directing fluid flow along one side (te force application side) if force is directed in the opposite direction, apertures 12 will fracture along their remaining region, retaining tongue member 18 only by the flexible hinge between apertures. 12 and strengthening ribs 3 1, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 Fig. 4A illustrates a first arrangement of ribs for a tongue 18a. As shown, tongue 18a is rectilinear in shape with a bottom edge 40a, a top edge 41a, and side edges 42a, 43a. Bott'rn edge 40a is substantially linear with a central point 45a and corners 46a, 47a at which the proximate ends of respective side edge 42a, 43a meet. Top edge 41a is curvilinear with an apex 48a and corners 49a, 50a at which the distal ends of respect side edges 42a, 43a terminate, Central point 45a and apex 48a lie along central axis c, The distance between central point 45a and apex 48a is the length of tongue I s, while the distance between corners 49a, 50a is the width of tongue Isa. lThe thickness 51a of tongue 18a is the distance between the top and bottom surfaces thereof. Side edges 42a, 43a each have a respective large rib 3 la, 30a extending along the entire length thereof Ih is notable that tongue 18a extends a distance beyond the length of the large ribs 31a, 30a to apex 4 8a, whereby top edge 41a is not reinforced. Ribs 3 Ia, 30a are each about 3 times the thickness of tongue I Sa and about 1/5", the width of tongue 18a, Small ribs 32 are disposed directly adjacent to their respective large rib 1a, 30a on the side thereof that is proximate to central axis c. Each small rib 32 extends from bottom edge 40a for a distance that is about 3/&10 the length of tie large ribs 3Ia,2a, Each small rib 32 is about 2 times the thinness of tongue 18a and about 1/1 0 b the width of tongue 18a, Fig. 4B illustrates. a second arrangement of ribs for a tongue 18b. As shown, tongue I 8b ts rectilinear in shape with a bottom edge 40b, a top edge 41b, and side edges 42b, 43b. Bottom Adge 40b is substantially linear with a central point 45b and corners 46b, 47b at which the proximate ends of respective side edge 42b, 43b meet. Top edge 41b is curvilinear with an apex 48b and corners 49b, 50b at which te distal ends of respect side edges 42b, 43b terminate, Central point 45b and apex 48b lie along central axis c (see Figs, 2. 4A). The distance between central point 45b and apex 48b is the length of tongue 19b, while the distance between comers 49b, 50b is the width of tongue 18b, The thickness 5 lb of tongue 1 8b is the distance between the top and bottom surfaces thereof. Side edges 42b, 43b each has a respective large rib 3 b, 32b extending along the entire length thereof. Large ribs 31-b are each about 3 tknes the thickness of tongue 18b and about 1/5"' the width of tongue 18b, Small half-ribs 33b, 34b are disposed WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 21 directly adjacent to their respective large ribs 3ib on the sides thereof that are proximate to central axis c A small rib 35b is disposed along central axis a. ach unall half-rib 33b, 34b extends from bottom edge 40b a distance that is about 3/10 the len of the large ribs 3 lb. Each small half-rib 33b 34b is about 2 times the thickness of tongue 18b and about 1/ 20 the width of tongue 18b. The small rib 35b exends from bottom edge 40b a distance that is about 3/1.0 the length. of th large ribs 3 lb. The small. rib 35b is about 2 times the thickness of tongue 18b and about 1/10" he width of tongue 18b, Fig. 4C illustrates a third arrangement of ribs for a tongue 18c. As shown, tongue 18c is rectilinear in shape with a bottom edge 40c, a top edge 41c, and side edges 42e, 43c Bottom edge 40c is substantially linear with a central point 45; and coriers 46c, 47c at which the proximate ends of respective side edge 42c, 43c meet, Top edge 41c is curvilinear with an apex 48c and corners 49c, 50c at which the distal ends of respect side edges 42c 3c terminate. Central point 45c and apex 48, lie along Central axis (ee Figs. 2, 4M The distance between central point 45c and apex 48c is .he length of tongue M8e, while the distance between corners 49c, 50c is the width of tongue i8c. The thickness 51c of tongue 18c is the distance between the top and bottom surfaces thereof Side edges 42c, 43c each has a respective large rib 31c, 32ec extending along the entire length thereof. Large ribs 31c, 32c are each about 3 times ,he thickness of tongue 18c and about 1/5' the width of tongue 18c., A small rib 35c is disposed along central axis c, The small rib 35c extends from bottom edge 40c a distance that is about 3/10 the length of the large ribs 31. The small rib 35 is about 2 tunes the thickness of tongue 18e and about 1/103' the width of tongue 18o. Fig. 4) illustrates a fourth arrangement of ribs for a tongue 18d, As shown, tongue 18d is rectilinear in shape with a bottom edge 40d, a top edge 41d, and side edges 42d, 43d. Bottom edge 40d is substantially linear with a central point 45d and corners 46d, 47d at which the proximate ends of respective side edge 42d, 43d meet. Top edge 41d is curvilinear with an apex 48d and corners 49d, 50d at which. the distal WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 22 mds of respect side edges 42d, 43d terminate Central point 45d and apex 48d both lie dong central axis c (see Figs.2, 4A). The distance between central point 45d and apex 18d is the length of tongue 18d, while the distance between corners 491d, 50d is the vidth of tongue 18d, The thickness 51d of tongue 18d is the distance between the top nd bottom surfaces thereof. Side edges 42d, 43d each has a respective large rib 31d 12d extending along the entire length thereof Large ribs 31d, 2d are each about 3 ames the thickness of tongue 18d and about 1i5t the width of tongue 1 8d. Spaced apart mrom each large rib 3d 32d is a respective small rib 33d, 34d, The smalribs 33d, 34d u'e preferably, but not necessaily spaced apart from each other and evenly spaced rom central axis c. The small ribs 33d, 34d are closer to central axis c than to their respective large ribs 31d, 32d, The small ribs 33d, 34d extend from bottom edge 40b a ,isiance that is about 3/10 the length of the large ribs 31d, 32d The small ribs 13d 34d are about 2 times the thickness Of tongue 18 and about li10 the width of tonue 18 Each smal rib 33d. 34d is preferably spaced apart from the central axis a by a distance that is approximately equal to its respective width. The small .bs 3d, 34d are spaced apart from each other by a distance that is approximately equal to 2 times the width of either smali rib 33d or 34d Each small rib 33d, 34d is preferably spaced apart from its respective large rib 31d, 32d by a distance that is approximately equal to 2 times its respective width, but other distances may be utilized, Figs, 5A and 5B illustrate a second dispensing applicator 100 according to the present invention, Dispensing applicator 100 comprises an applicator head 108, a source of fluid, which is shown as a hollow, generally cylindrical body 110, and an applicator tip 115, which has an attachment member 117 and. tongue member 113 joined thereto by a tapered frangible juncture member 119 having fracture sites as noted above at 12 (see ig, 3C) Fluid source body 110 and applicator tip 115 are respectively identical in form and function to fluid source body 10 and applicator tip 15 described hereinabove in reference to Figures 1 through 4D.

WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 23 In addition, dispensing applicator member 100 is provided with an absorbent swab member 201. and an inwardly projecting ridge-shaped member 215 provided within body 110, A portion of body 110 is adapted to hold and/or support absorbent applchator member 105. As shown, absorbent applicator member 105 is held and supported on a surface 106. Surface 106 is provided with at least one aperture 107, such that the fluid may flow from the interior of body 110 into absorbent applicator member 105, as discussed in further detail herein below. Furthermore, a portion of body 110 is adapted to hold and/or support absorbent swab member 210, As shown, absorbent swab member 210 is held and supported on a surface 203 that is connected to body 110 by a stock member 204, Absorbent swab member 210 is preferably not in Ruid communication with the interior of body 110. Outer surface 201 of absorbent applicator member 105 is oriented relative to body 200 such that, when absorbent applicator member 105 is substantially parallel to an application surface ize., in contact with the appliton surfae>the zentra axis c of body 1 0 forms an angle of about 45* with the application surf ce which angle provides a conmfortabe for the user and facilitates the flow of fluid through th interior of ,ody 1.10 into absorbent application member 105. Similarly, absorbent applicator inember 105 f absorbent swab member 210 is oriented relative to body 200, such that, when absorbent swab number 210 is substantially parallel to an application surface (Le, in contact with the application mrface), the central axis c of body 200 fanns an angle of about 30' with the application surfae, which angle provides a comfortable grip for the user and allows the user to spread the applied fluid over a relatively large area with relatively less arm movement and/or extension. The manner of utilizing dispensing applicator 100 involves holding the dispensing applicator 100 with the absorbent application member 105 against an application surface, Downward pressure of applicator 100 against the application surface will displace head. 108 upwardly and force ridge-shaped member 215 into contact with tongue member 118, Sufficient upward pressure of ridge-shaped member 215 against tongue member i18 will upwardly deflect the tongue member 118 fromu the WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 24 central axis c of the fluid source body 110. At a predetermined amount of deflection, the frangible juncture 119 will fracture or break at apertures 12 (see Fig, 3C, but not along the entire hinge region or at strengthening ribs (not shown) prevenng unintended separation. Fracture of the frangible juncture 119 will desirable be achieved by the application of approximately 0.25 to 5 pounds of downward force of applicator 100 against the application surface, Breaking frangible juncture 119 will result fluid from fluid source body 110 flowing into head 108 via apertures 12 (not shown, but noted in Figs, 3A-3C) Comparable to breaking frangible region 19 of apphcator tip 15, as discussed herein above in reference to Figures 3A to 3C, breaking frangible region 119 :f applicator tip 115 results in the formation of one or more apertures in applicatr tip 115 through which fluid from source body 110 may flow into head 108 without the intended separation of the tip member 115. Thus, in general, applicator tip 15 is comparable in form and structure to applicator tip 1 15 Absorbent swab member 210 may be employed for a variety of purposes, Swab 0 may be used to spread a fluid over the application surface after the application nemnber 105 initially applies the fluid Using swab 210 in this way would be particularly advantageous if the amount of fluid that is desired to cover a relatively large surface area has been inadvertently applied to a relatively small area, which may occur if application member 105 becomes oversaturated with fluid and can no longer effectively regulate the flow rate and amount of fluid being applied. Moreover, swab member 210 may be used to soak up fluid on the application surface, for example, when an excess of fluid has been applied or the fluid has been applied over the wrong area As stated above, absorbent swab member 210 is preferably not in fluid communication with the interior of body 200. However, a possible use for swab 210 is applying fluid to a second surface area that is separate and apart front the surface area over which used absorbent application member 105. In the critical interest of avoiding cross-contamination, it is desirable to use the application member 105 over only a WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 25 single contiguous surface area that should be relatively limited (e.g, the upper front of ,he torso, instead of the entire front of the Iorsm). Accordingly, after an initial application, any additional fluid in a given dispensing applicator may go wastefully unutilized. Therefore, in another embodiment of absorbent applicator head 108, there is ,irvi.3 at Ics neaetue. provided at least one aperture (not shown) in surface 203, such that fluid may flow from the interior of body 200 into absorbent swab member 210. Head 108 may be detachable from fluid body 110. Fluid body 110 may contain an amount of fluid that is greater than is necessary for a given application, Accordingly, after an initial application, any additional fluid in a given dispensing applicator may go wastefully unutilized, Therefore, in another embodimr- ent of applicator 100, fluid body 110 is removably attached to head 108 so that head 108 may be disposed of separately from fluid body I10. If fluid body 110 contains residual fluid after an initial application, other absorbent head may be attached to fluid body i'0, thereby allowing the residual fluid to be applied to another application surface. Referring to Fig, 6, as stated above, it is desirous to avoid cross-contamination by using a given absorbent applicator over only a single contiguous, relatively limited, surface area, Yet, using a given absorbent application in such a manner will often result in an amount of fluid therein being wasted. Accordingly, a dispensing applicator according to the present invention, generally indicated as reference numeral 300, may be provided with a relatively larger, multi-sided absorbent applicator member 308 such that different sides thereof may be used on different surface areas, Referring to Fig, 7, there is shown an applicator tip having a semi -periieable or non-penneable cover 400 substantially surrounding frangible juncture 19. The purpose of cover 400 is to control the speed- and direction of the dispersion of fluid in a surrounding absorbent member (not shown), Preferably, a rearward edge 401 of cover 400 will be attached to applicator tip 15. More preferably. rearward edge 401 will be fully sealed around applicator tip 15 WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 26 without gaps or holes so that fluid may not flow rearward under edge 401. If cover 400 is semi-permeable adjacent to rearward edge 401, fluid tinay flow rearward through cover 400, but preferably will not flow rearward under edge 401 given the more preferable fully sealed attachment thereof to applicator tip 15. In contrast, a forward or distal edge 402 of cover 400 is preferably free and unattached to applicator tip 15 so that fluid may flow forward under cover 400 substantially without being impeded thereby. Preferably, cover 400 is formed as a seamless, unitary cylindrical sleeve (e.g., having a circular, square, or rectangular cross-section). Nonetheless, cover 400 may be of any suitable shape and construedin Depending upon its intended function, cover 400 may be sema-permeable or impermeable to fluid. Cover 400 may be made of various materials, including natural and/or synthetic rubbers, thermoplastics (e.g, polyethylene, cellulosic materials or similar fibers (i.e.. natural polymeric fibers) and metalic materials. Cover 400 may be a contiguous sheet, a mesh, a felt, or another suitable form, with or without reinforcing fibers and/or seams (i.e., "rip-stop" seams). Preferably, cover 400 is pliable and flexible so that it does not impede deflection of tongue member 18, In other words, it is preferable that cover 400 does not hinder the breaking of Frangible juncture 19, However, surrounding frangible juncture 19 with a cover 400 having suitable sickness and/or stiffness will provide a level of reinforcement that prevents inadvertent breaking of frangible juncture 19. Accordingly, by employing a suitable thick and/or stiff cover 400, tongue member 18 may be provided without reinforcing ribs. Thus, employing cover 400 to reinforce frangible juncture 19 will advantageously simplify production of application tip 15, since tongue member 18 may be molded as a simple flat extension. Controlling a rate of dispensing fluid is critical because a) over saturation of the absorbent member reduces the collecting capability of this member, and b) back flow of WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 4 / the delivered fluid from the distal end towards the proximal end of the absorbent nemiber interferes with the physician's work, Accordingly. Fig. 8 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention directed to a. dispensing applicator 350 which is configured to prevent fluid from uncontrollably entering an attachment member 354 that is coupled to tip 15. At least one, but preferably a multiplicity of capillary vessels 352 is provided within the attachment member, Being in fluid communication with a source body 360, vessels 352, by virtue of their cross-section, meter an amount of fluid penetrating into the absorbent member (not shown). Thus, a combination of the openings, which are formed as a result of breaking frangible region 19 and vessels 352. effectively limits oversaturation of the absorbent member, Still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator 450 is illustrated in Fig. 9. As shown, applicator 4.50 does not have a frangible structure or region. Instead, an attachment member 452 is provided with at least one or more capillary vessels 454 controllably traversed by fluid from fluid source 464. Vessels 454 project into an applicator tip 465 while penetrating a proximal end of an absorbent member 456, The cross-section of the vessels is selected to provide a metered delivery of fluid. However, absorbent member 456 can still accumulate an excessive amount of fluid, which will eventually result in a backflow towards the proximal end of the absorbent member and subsequent voluntary evacuation of fluid via this end. To limit or minimize such a possibility, applicator 450 has a flow limiting component or cover 458. Formed within absorbent member 456 and, preferably, sealed to the proximal end thereof, cover 458 is able to collect fluid flowing towards the proximal end of absorbent member 456 and, thus, prevents uncontrollable evacuation of acc um ulated fluid. As illustrated, cover 458 is provided with a body having a pair of concave sides 460 whose free or distal ends are spaced from one another at a distance that defines an open exit/entrance for fluid, The bottom portions 464 of cover 458 extend complementary to converging flanks 466 of attachment member 452, Stability of an WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 28 applicator tip 465 is added by providing the distal end of attachment member 452 with a rib 470, Note that cover 458 does not completely prevent backflow of fluid leaving a space within the absorbent member which is sufficient to amply, but not excessively, wet the surfaces of this member. A further embodiment of dispensing applicator 479 is illustrated in Fi gs, 1 OA and lOB, Applicator 479 has a ftangible region 19 structured substantially similar to the like configured regions which are discussed in detail above. To prevent uncontrollable evacuation of fluid via a proximal end 474 of an absorbent member 476, applicator 479 has a cover 472 functioning similarly to cover 458 of Figure 9, However, cover 472 is configured with a pair of rectilinear flanks 478 and a bottom portion 480 that extends parallel to a flat distal end of anachnm.ent member 17, Cover 472 may also be cone-like, The applicator 479 is formed by inserting cover 472 into and sealing it to the interior of absorbent member 476. The bottom portion 480 lies preferably flush with the proximal end of the absorbent member and is sealingly attached to frangible region 19. Embodiments of a dispensing applicator 490 illustrated in Figs. 11 A and 11B3 are conceptually close to the embodiment illustrated in Figs, 5A and 5B and include an applicator head 492 which is formed with an absorbent member 494 and a swab member 496. The absorbent and swab members have a center axes A-A and BB, respectively, which intersect one another forming an angle of about 80-100g. The difference between. the embodiment of Figs. 5A and 5B and the one in Figs, I IA and I IB includes utilization of one or more capillary vessels 498 provided. instead of the frangible region, While, swab member 496 of Fig. II A is prevented from fluid conimunication with an interior of a fluid source body, swab member 496 of Fig 11B is traversed by a capillary tube 499 and has an inner surface 497 in fluid communication with the interior via an opening 495, for the reasons explained above in reference to Figs, 5A and 5B, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 29 Another embodiment of the dispenser is depicted in Figs. 12-27. With reference to those Figures, dispensing applicator 60 comprises a mounting block 66 having a base piece 61, a bottom side skirt part 62 to which is affixed an absorbent sponge type applicator 63, and a stem piece 64 upstanding from base piece 61. An absorbent swab 65 is carried at an adjacent side of the mounting block 66, for which purpose the mounting block 66 includes a mounting bracket 67 (depicted to advantage in Fig 18) receptive of a skirt piece 68 to which swab 6S is affixed. Stem piece 64 is preferably a tubular component and its interior space is in communication with the interior space 69 of base piece 61 (see Fig, 21), the last mentioned space outletting to absorbent applicator 63 so that a flow course in the mounting block 66 has inlet in the stem piece 64 and outlet at applicator 63. An elongated fluid container 70 is attachable to the mounting block, an end of the container being received in stem piece 64, Referring in more deal to Figs, 12-17, container 70 which is of tubular configuration is capped at a lrst end as at 71, At a distal opposite end length, an attachment member 72 has a, length portion, as at 73, received inside the container; and, the length portion is affixed to the container as, for example, by heat sealing. The length portion has a flange 80 thereon and a continuing length portion 73a constituting a tangible section, this section transitions into a tongue element, 74. The juncture of the tongue element 74 and the continuing length portion 73a defines a weakened joinder location at which the fracture and at least partial separation of the tongue element from the frangible section will occur, enabling outletting of fluid front container 70. Figs. 16 and 17 depict one embodiment of a &iacture anvil 76. The fracture anvil has a cruciform passage 77 extending therethrough, as well as a number of fluid pass-through passages 78 for enablingcfluid released on fracture to flow toward absorbent applicator 63. When the second opposite end of the container 70 is inserted into the stem piece 64, the tongue element is aligned such that it will enter and locate in the cross passage part 77a of cruciforni passage 77, the fracture anvil having been inserted in the bore 72 of the stem piece, The second opposite end of the container 70 is snap fit connected to WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 30 the stem piece 64, The arrangent is such that with flange 80 received in annular internal groove or slot 154 in the stem piece (see Fig. 21) the tongue element 74 is properly positioned in cross passage part 77a for effecting fracture. External dimensioning of the annular flange 80 and internal groove 1 54 is such that the container 70 can be rotated relative to the fracture anvil while the fracture anvil is held, This approximately ninety degree rotation of the container i effective to twist the tongue element 74 at the weakened joinder location with length portion 73a fracturing it and effecting at least partial separation from length porlion 73a With this fracture, fluid releases from the container into the mounting block throw ugh course. Figs 214 22 and Figs, 23, 24 show, respectively. pre and post-fracture orientations of length portion 73a, i 25 shows how fluid outlets the container in streams from apertures 83 at the fracture ste of tongue element 74 and length portion 73a, the apertures 83 being shown in Fig 15 as well F 26 shows the pattern of fluid flow to and distributed through. the absorbent applicator 63, which distribution is promoted by the passages 84 formed in the applicator 63. Fig, 2" illustrates the orientation of the dispenser 60 when, e.g, it is desired to swab a large patient area, spreading out the quantity of fluid applied to the patient with absorbent swab 65, Fig. 28 depicts an embodiment of dispensing applicator 60-2, which is identical with the Fig. 13 applicator 60 except wherein fracture anvil 76-1 is embodied as a truncated cylinder, The anvil 761 shown in more detail in Figs, 32 and 35 is provided with a flat inclined top face 132, and with a flat chord face 177 at the cylindrical periphery thereof and extending between top face 132 and a bottom face 179. With the anvil 76-1 received in stein piece 64 as shown in Figs. 35-37, flat chord face 177 is disposed spaced from the cylindrical inner surface of the stem piece 64 and therewith defines a flow channel along which fluid contents of container 70 can flow from interior space 99 of the stem piece 64 to the interior space 69 of base piece 61, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 31 Referring to Figs. 35-37, explanation of fracturing for fluid flow (but not separation) of the frangibl weakened joint at which the tongue element 74 is connected to the frangible length part 73a is now given, The circular Ainner surface of the stem piece 64 is shouldered or provided with a stop as at 139 to hold the fracture anvil 764 ('ig, 32) in stopped position so it cannot move lower in the stem piece passage. When the appicator i to he used. a fluid container 70 will be inserted into the sten piece 64, tongue element 74 first. The tip end of the tongue element 74 will in course finsrttion travel strike against the inclined top face 132 of the fracture anvi) 76 in consequence of which the tongue element 64 will be laterally displaced from the full Ii e position thereof in Fig. 35 to the position as shown in Figs 36 and 37 That displacement effects rupture (but not separation) of the tongue element at its joinder location with the frangible region and container fluid contents are released through orifices 83 (Fig, 15 into the stem piece interior space. It is specifically noted, that in Fig, 31 the separation is shown only for purposes of visualizing th openings accessed by fracture of the frangible regions, and it will be recognized that the inner joining region of tongue member 74 remains firmly and securely attached to head member 80, and is merely displaced allowing a fluid-flow access to the openings noted. Thus, Fig, 31 is for illustrative purposes only and does not reflect a separation, Additional fracture anvil embodiments are shown in Figs, 33 and 34, In these embodiments, the truncated cylinder anvils '/6-2 and 76-3 unlike fracture anvil 76-1, retain their outer surface cylindrical envelopes, Like fracture anvil 76-1, these anvils each have an inclined flat top face 132 and a flat bottom face 179, To provide flow from the inclined top face to the flat bottom face side of the fracture anvils, gutter-like flow channels 133 are formed in the cylindrical periphery of each anvil, these flow channels 133 extending from the inclined top face 132 to the flat bottom face 179, Fracture anvil 76-2 has one flow channel or relatively large cross section area, whereas, fracture anvil 76-3 has plural, i. e,, three flow channels each of smaller cross section area but in total about the same as the cross section area of fracture anvil 76-2, The flow channels 133 juxtapose with the inner encircling periphery of the stem piece and provide ample artery volume to insure proper fluid flow to the absorbeit applicator 63 WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 32 An important consideration in the dispensing applicator is (a) complete filling of container 70 during manufacture to ensure maximum supply and (b) avoidance of cmntamnination of the fluid contents in the container 70 bod as to at initial filling of dsinfectant and medicaments therein and as to post filling handling and storage until med to use. It will be recognized by those of skill in the art, that achieving (a) will eliminate air pockets prior to use that will impact contamination in ( in this regard aud with continuing reference to Figs, 29 and 30, the container 70 of dispensing applicator 60-2 is provided at its first or filling end with a capping assembly 240 (as sown) that includes a closure cap 241 having a central disN part 243 and an axially detected peripheral skirt 242 encircling the outer surface of the container 70 at its first etd. The first end tip part of container 70 has a radially inwardly directed annular flxnge 244 defining a central opening 245 (See Fig. 30) in the container tip end. A boss 248 projects axially from the inner face of central disc part 243 and with the cap in place on the container first end, the boss 248 will locate a distance through central opening 245 upon assembly. The capping assembly also includes a, . foil material gasket 250 constructed from a suitable material which is used to intervene the inner side 01f te closure cap 241 and the first end face, i.e- the annular flange 244 outer face of the container 70. Fig, 30 depicts the manner of container fii-ng, A filling line 252 (shown as a tube) in the sterile filling operation environment delivers disinfectant or medicament fluid as discussed. herein of any suitable kind through central opening 245 into the container until there is overflow of fluid at which point the filling is terminated. Gasket 251 is then set on top of the outer face of flange 244, the gasket being of larger area expanse than flange 244 and nakes liquid contact for sealing purposes, Further, gasket 250 is selected from materials which are liquid proof, stretchable or deform able to a certain degree so that when closure cap 241 is fitted. over the first end of the container sandwiched between the closure cap inner face and the outer face of flange 244, an air tight joint seal of the container is effected without a bubble, since the gasket material WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 33 will conform to the sandwiching structure in intimate contact therewith, Fig. 29 illustrates this clearly and employs a formed main tube body 70 having only smaller opening 245. It is also to be noted from Fig. 29 that fluid fills the first end of the container 70 and is in air excluding contact with the gasket, and the apparent fluid gap in Fig, 29 is employed only to show depth of the fluid and not the existence of an unfilled portion of the tube. This arrangement assures absence of any possible contaminants-contaiing air within the container. It is preferred that the closure cap 241 once in place be not removable from the container, This can be effected by sonic welding or other attachment means of the closure cap to the container and optionally of the foil closure itself. If it is thought expedient for any reason, the cap can be removably snap fitted to the container. For example, an annular groove in one of the structure inner skirt surface and outer surface of the container, and an annular bead on the other of said surfaces will alow removal the closure cap but only with deliberately intended such action Referring now additionally to Figs. 38-40, an alternative construction is provided at a dispenser system 500 containing a head member 501 secured to a dispensing fluid container 502 and surrounded by a foam dispersing member 503 constructed in a manner previously discussed. As earlier noted, flow shields and flow control devices may be particularly useful in preventing unintended fluid release, fluid spill back during application (from buildup within foam dispersing member 503) etc. Similarly, a flexible tip or tongue member 505 is joined with reinforcing members 508 (shown in the first figure) joined to fracture member 506 on head member 501 so that the fracture about the stressed areas earlier noted (see for example Fig. 3C at 12, the discussion of Fig. 5A and the related discussions of flexible fracture upon movement of the tongue member while retaining and preventing separation of the tongue member) is directionally out the only side that fractures - that facing the application surface as seen by flows in Fig, 39. A s a consequence, fluid flows 510 from the fracture or opening site may approach an application surface 511 upon actuation.

WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 34 What is additionally appreciated here, is that, dual surfaces of foam member 503 is nustantially beneficial for the reasons noted above, A flexible plastic card 525 is flexibly retained and fixed in foam applicator head J03 proximate fracture Tember 506 as shown. Card 525 is formed of a thin, flexible and fluid resistant (impermeable or sembipermeable) material (like a playing card), and includess preferahly a plurality of peripheral protuberances or indentations 526 that mgage the foam or sponge head to prevent lateral or longitudinal shifting relative to the fracture location for reasons that will be discussed. As will be appreciated, the -rotuberances 526, spikes, detents or other structures or chemical means (such s glue about the perimeter) may be employed to minimize or prohibit shifting of card shield 525 during manufacture or use applications. Card 525 includes a bounded opening or slot 528 that is approximately 0,25 approximately 0.75 inches in height and sufficiently wide to span the full uidth of tongue member 505 and the connection with fracture member 506 so as to position itself as shown generally in Fig. 39. As an adaptive embodiment the fluid exiting slot on the inferior side of the sponge extends almost the full width of card 525 for a speedy delivery of fluid while protecting the superior side of the sponge from unintended fluid dispersal or pooling, As noted earlier, during surgical preparation a sterile prep Item may not be used again on the same patient following an initial removal as a consequence, the present embodiment minimizes loss or waste by preserving a second foam side or superior foam side for second use by the same applicator. As a consequence, as noted in Fig. 39 fluid flow is to the inferior portion of the sponge and directly applies to the contact source and flows between the contact surface 511 and the surface of card 525 for distribution without penetrating card 525 to translate to the superior portion of the sponge, This action retains the superior side of the sponge in a substantially or completely dry condition for later sterile use (which may be achieved by merely flipping the applicator WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 wer to the superior side and proceeding as discussed above and demonstrated in the fgures. Another alternative embodiment of the dispensing applicator in accordance with the present invention is depicted in Figs. 41-44, With reference thereto, Figs. 41A~C show 61fferent views of the alternative embodiment of a mounting block for a fluid dispensng applicator according to the invention which receives an absorbent applicator at a block bottom side, In particular, as shown, the dispensing applicator comprises a counting block 550 having a base piece 552, a bottom side skirt part to which is affixed an absorbent sponge type applicator (see Fig. 43) and a stem piece 554 upstanding front base piece 552. An absorbent swab may optionally be carried at an adjacent side of the mounting block 550 Fee Figs, 5AB, 1IA~B and 1243), for which purpose the mounting block 550 includes a mounting bracket (eg,. sintilar to that shown in Fig. 18) receptive of i skirt piece to which the absorbent swab is affixed. Optionally mounting block 550 may include projectons 958 to aid in rotating mounting block 550 about the axis of stem piece 554 as indicated by arrow 556 to cause inacture of tongue 505 and fracture member 506 (see Fig, 40) while tongue 505 (see Fig, 40) is positioned within fracture anvil 560 (see Fig, 41 C Stem piece 554 is preferable a tubular component and its interior space is in communication with the interior space of base piece 552 (see Fig. 41B), the last mentioned space outletting to absorbent applicator 548 so that a flow course in the mounting block 550 has inlet in the stem piece 554 and outlet at applicator 548. An elongated fluid container 574 (see Fig. 43) is attachable to the mounting block 550, an end of the container being, received in stem piece 554, Referring in more detail to Figs, 41A~C and 43-44, container 574 which is of tubular configuration is capped at a first end as at 576 At a distal opposite end length, an attachment member 568 has a length portion received inside the container 574, and the length portion being affixed to the container as, for example, by heat sealing or snap ft. The length portion optionally has a flange 572 thereon and a continuing length portion constituting a frangible section, this WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 36 section transitions into a tongue element 570, The juncture of the tongue element 570 and the continuing length portion defnes a weakened joinder location at which the fracture and at least partial separation of the tongue element 570 from the frangible section will occur, enabling outletting of fuid from container 574. Referring now to Fig. 42A, shown is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a fracture anvil for being removably inserted in an applicator nounting block part of the applicator head, the fracture anvil having a partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage for reception of the fluid source container tongue element, the fracture anvil bing employed to effect partial fracture of the frangible region-tongue element joinder on a relative rotatable movement between said container and said fracture anvil, Fig, 423 shows a cross-section view of the fracture anvil taken on the line 42-B423 of Fig. 42A, Turning to Figs. 42A-B3, depicted is yet another embodiment of a fracture anvil 560 for use with the dispensing applicator according to the invention The fracture anvil 560 shown has a partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage 562 extending therethrough, as well as a number of fluid pass-through passages for enabling fluid released on fracture to flow toward absorbent applicator 548, When the second opposite end of the container 574 is inserted into the stem piece 554, the tongue element 570 is aligned such that it will enter and locate ia the vertical cross passage part of partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage 562, the fracture anvil 560 having been inserted in the bore of the stem piece 554, The second opposite end of the container 574 is snap fit connected to the stem piece 554, The arrangement is such that with flange 572 received in annular internal groove in the stem piece (see eg., Fig. 21), the tongue element 570 is properly positioned in the vertical cross passage part for effecting fracture. External dimensioning of the annular flange and internal groove is such that the container 574 can be rotated relative to the fracture anvil 560 while the fracture anvil 560 is held in position, This approximately forty-five degree rotation of the container WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 3 7 574 is effective to twist part. of the tongue element 570 at the weakened joinder location, fracturing a portion of it and effecting at least partial separation from attachment member 568, With this fracture, fluid releases from the container 574 into the mounting block 550 through course. Referring next to Fig. 43, shown is an exploded left front side perspective view of still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator according to the invention wherein a fluid containing source 574 is receivable attachable to an applicator mounting body stemn piece 554 in snap fit connection therewith, Initiation of fluid flow is then effectuated with a relative rotative movement as indicated by arrow 556, between the fluid source container 574 and a fracture anvil (see Fig, 44) in the stem piece 554 of mounting block 550. The first end 576 of container 574 has a central opening, A capping assembly is releasably attached to the opening at end 576. The capping assembly also includes a, eg fiil material gasket 582 constructed from a suitable material which is sed to intervene the inner side of the. losure cap 584 and the annular flange 578 which has a bore 580 therethrough. iasket 582 is set on top of the outer face of flange 578, the gasket preferably being of larger area expanse than flange 578 and makes liquid contact for sealing purposes. Further, gasket 582 is selected from materials which are liquid proof, stretchable or defornable to a certain degree so that when closure cap 584 is fitted over the first end of the container sandwiched between Whe closure cap inner face and the outer face of flange 578, an air tight joint seal of the container is effected without a bubble, since the gasket material will conform to the sandwiching structure in intimiate contact terewith. As seen in Fig. 44, depicted is a cross-section view taken on the line 44-44 in FIG. 43 showing relative position of the tongue member 563 within the partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage of the fracture anvil, Additionally, the fracture anvil has a number of fluid pass-through passages 561 for enabling fluid released on fracture to flow toward absorbent applicator 548, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 38 Referring next to Fig. 45, shown is an exploded left front side perspective view d[ still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator wherein a fluid containing source 574 is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting body 588 in snap fit connection tierewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative rotative movement 556 between the fluid source container 574 and a fracture anvil 560 (see Fig. 46) in the nounting body 588, and further showing a dye packet assembly 591 having top and bottom diffusers 596 each preferably with a spiral-like pathway 595 leading to openings 92 (for passage of the fluid) and a dye tablet 594. The embodiment of the dispensing a'plicator of Fig. 5 is similar with the applicator shown in Fig. 43 except wherein dye pocket assembly 591 is provided in the mounting body 588 Referring next to Fig, 46, shown is a cross-section view taken along the line 46 46 of the applicator of Fig, 45 showing the partial cruciform, partial semi-circular passage 562 of the fracture anvil 560. When assembled, as shown in Fig. 47, the assembled dispensing applicator of Fig. 45 is closed at one end with cap 584 and at the other end with the removable attachment of fluid source 574 into mounting block 588 through rotatable connector 586 As can be seen in Fig. 48, which shows a cross section view of the assembled fluid dispensing applicator taken along the line 48-48 in Fig. 47, dispensing applicator comprises a mounting block 588 having a base piece 597 with an opening 598 (Fig. 45) or plurality of openings 599 for passage of the fluid, a bottom side skirt part to which is affixed an absorbent sponge 590 and a stem piece, Optionally, (not shown here, but see Fig. 12) an absorbent swab may be carried at an adjacent side of the mounting block, for which purpose the mounting block includes a mounting bracket (depicted to advantage in Fig. 18) receptive of a skirt piece to which swab is affixed. Stem piece is preferably a tubular component and its interior space is in communication with the interior space of base piece (see e~g. Fig. 21), the last mentioned space outletting to absorbent applicator so that a flow course in the mounting block has inlet in the stem piece and outlet at applicator, An elongated fluid container WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 39 574 is attachable to the mounting block, an end of the container being received in stem piece. Referring next to Figs. 49A-C, shown are, respectively, enlarged perspective, bottom and cross-section (taken along line 49C49C of Fig, 49B) views of a preferred embodiment of a diffuser element 596 for the dye packet assembly 591 Turning next to Figs. 50-51, shown is an exploded left front side perspective view and a cross-sectional view (taken along Line 51-51 n Fig, 50), respectively, of still another embodiment of a dispensing applicator according to the invention wherein a fluid containing source 606 is receivabwy attachable to an applicator nmowting body tem piece 604 in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative rotative movement (as indicated by arrow 620) between the fluid source ontainer 606 and a fracture anvil 631 in the mounting body. Figs. 52-53 depict a side perspective view and cross-section view taken along line 53-53 in Fig, 52, respectively, f the assembled fluid dispensing applicator shown in Fig. 50 Turning now to Figs. 54A.-D, shown is still another alternative embodiment of an assembled dispensing applicator Wherein a fid containing source is receivable titachable to an applicator mounting body stem piece in snap fit connection therewith, initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative downward movement between the fluid source container and a fracture member in the mounting body. Fig. 54B is an exploded left front side perspective view of the dispensing applicator shown in Fig, 54A wherein a fluid containing source is receivably attachable to an applicator mounting hody stem piece in snap fit connection therewith,. initiation of fluid flow being effected with a relative downward movement between the fluid source container and a fracture member in the mounting body. Fig, 54C is a side cross-section view of the assembled dispensing applicator of Fig. 54A taken on the line 54C-54C, aid Fig. 54D is a front cross-section view of the assembled dispensing applicator of Fig. 54A taken on the line 54D-54D, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 40 Figs. 55S-57 depict various views of an embodiment of a fluid dispersing head. for use with the fluid dispensing applicator according to the invention. In particular, Figs. 56C-D, which are cross-sectional views of the fluid dispersing head of Fig, 55 taken on the line 56C-56C in Fig. 56A and line 56D-56) in Fig. 56B, further show the relative position of an applicator tip member and fracture member within the fluid dispersing head. Similarly, Fig, 58Ad depict various views of an alternative emnbodiment of an applicator rnounting block according to the invention having an opening on one side for the dispersing of fluid to only one side of a fluid dispensing head. In particular, Fig, 5813 shows no opening for dispersing fluid to the fluid dispersing head, while Fig. 581, which shows another side of the applicator mounting block, depicts an opening for dispersing of fluid to the fluid dispersing head. Of course, opening could be positioned on either side or even both sides of the applicator head. Lastly, Fig. 58E shows a bottom end view of the applicator mounting block of Figs, 58A-) and depicts the inclusion of the partial cruciform, partial semi-circuiar fracture anvil discussed in detail above. While the present invention is primarily directed to a dispensing applicator for Jhe application of liquids to the surface of the head, limbs, and/or body for medical purposes (i.e. pre-surgical disinfection), dispensing applicators according to the present invention may be used in a wide variety of purposes and environments. For example, a dispensing applicator according to the present invention can be used for application of lubricant(s) or adhesive(s), The range of sizes can also vary widely, as long as the several wvall thicknesses are controlled appropriately to afford the desired functional characteristics discussed herein. It should also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the fluid reservoirs, in selected enbodinents, are flexibly bounded and allow an operator to control volumetric application based on the amount of pressure applied to the exterior of the reservoir. As a consequence of this design, it should also be recognized bv those of skill in the art, that an operator releasing a compressed WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 41 eservoirs, may partially suction released fluid back into the reservoir and minimize tooling. In the claims, means- or step-plusfun.ction clauses are intended to cover the structures described or suggested herein as performing the recited function and not only ructural equivalents but also equivalent structures;, Thus, for example, although a rail, a screw, and a bolt may not be structural equivalents in that a nail relies on friction between a wooden part and a cylindrical surface, a screWs helical surface positively engages the wooden part, and a bowl's head and nut compress opposite sides of a vooden part, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail, a screw, and a bolt nay be readily understood by those skilled in the art as equivalent structures. It will be understood tha the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central characteristics thereof. The resent examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given h-rein,

Claims (9)

1. A dispensing applicator comprising a frangible applicator tip, said frangible applicator tip further comprising: (a) an attachment member removably connected to a hand-held fluid source: (b) a substantially rigid tongue element extending outwardly from the attachment rnber into a mounting block having a fuid-absorbent member and wherein said rigid tongue element has side edges and a central portion; (c) a frangible region between the mounting block and said substantially rigid tongue element whereby unintentional breaking of said frangible region allows partial fluid release proximate at least one aperture formed at a nexus with said frangible region; and (d) a fracture anvil receivable in said mounting block, said fracture anvil embodying fluid flow through-passage means, a relative movement between said fracture anvil and said fluid source while maintaining engaging contact of said tongue element with said fracture anvil being effective to fracture said frangible region without separation thereby initiating fluid release from said fluid source to the fluid-absorbent member 2, The dispensing applicator according to claim 1, wherein said fracture anvil further comprises a partial cruciform and partial seni-circular passage passing theret through in which said rigid tongue element locates with the mounting block, fracture of said frangible region being effected with relative rotatable movement between said tongue and said fracture anvil, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 43 The dispensing applicator of claim 1, wherein the rigid tongue element has side eiges and is provided with the plurality of reinforcing ribs located between the side elges and configured. to resist deflection, at least two of the plurality of reinforcing ribs etch being disposed along a respective one of the side edges, 4 The dispensing applicator of claim 3, wherein at least a portion of the plurality oi reinforcing ribs each is approximately' 3 times thicker than the frangible region.

5. The dispensing applicator of claim 1, wherein the rigid tongue element has side Cges and a central portion and is provided with the plurality of reinforcing ribs located bitwe.en the side edges and configured to resist deflection, a pair of the plurality of rduforcing ribs each being disposed along a respective one of the side edges and at least additional two ribs flanking the central portion, 6, Tb dispensing applicator of claim 1, wherein the rigid tongue element has side edges and a central portion and is provided with the plurality of reinforcing ribs located between the side edges and configured to resist deflection, the plurality of ribs being ncn-unifornlv dimensioned and having at least one pair of relatively long ribs eacti extending along a respective one of the side edges and at least one relatively short rib disposed along the central portion.

7. The dispensing applicator of claim 1, wherein the rigid tongue element has side edaes and a central portion and is provided with the plurality of reinforcing ribs located between the side edges and configured to resist deflection, the plurality of ribs being non-uniformly dimensioned and having at least two relatively long ribs disposed along each side edge and at least one pair of relatively short ribs flanking the central portion, WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 44 8, The dispensing applicator of claim 1, further comprising a semi-permeable or non-permeable cover substantially surrounding the frangible region to control the speed and direction of dispersion of fluid into the fluid-absorbent member.

9. The dispensing applicator of claim 8, wherein the cover comprises a rearward edge attached to said attachment member and a forward free edge. 10, The dispensing applicator of claim I, wherein the fluid-absorbent member further comprises a body defining a fluid conduit, an absorbent applicator member in fluid communication with the fluid conduit, and an absorbent swab member separate from the absorbent applicator member,

11. A dispensing applicator comiprising: (a) a fluid-absorbent member having a proximal end in a flow commum nation with a fluid source for containing a fluid. and a distal end, said fluid absorbent member being configured to deliver said fluid to an external surface to be treated through said distal end,. said fluid source further comprising delivery initiation means for causing said fluid to flow towards said distal end by application of pressure to an outer wall of said fluid. source; (b) a cover located within said fluid-absorbent member and extending between the proximal and distal ends of the fluid-absorbent member, the cover being configured to direct said fluid flowing from said distal to proximal ends of said fluid-absorbent member so as to minimize voluntary evacuation of said fluid through said proximal end of said fluid-absorbent member: (c) a substantially rigid tongue element extending outwardly through said fluid absorbent member towards said distal end thereof; and WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 4; (d) a frangible region located between said proximal end of said fluid-absorbent member and said rigid tongue element and operative to provide flow communication between said fluid source and said proximal end of said absorbent member upon intentional breaking at a portion of said frangible region 12 The dispeosing applicator of claim 11, wherein said rigid tongue element is configured with a plurality of reinforcing ribs that resist deflectiom whereby unintentional breaking of said frangible region is reduced by said plurality of rehforcing ribs.

13. The dispensing applicator of claim 11, wherein said cover is formed from fluid reastant material consisting of a group selected front: (a) natural rubbers; (b) synthetic rutbers;( thermoplastics (d) celiulosic materials or similar fibers; and, (e) metallic materials, 14, The dispensing applicator of claim 11, wherein said. cover is provided integrally wun said fluid-absorbent member.

15. The dispensing applicator of claim 11. wherein said cover serves as an insert coupled to and sealingly fixed to said fluid absorbent member.

16. The dispensing applicator of claim 11. wherein said fluid-absorbent member is provided with a generally triangular cross-section and has a base provided with an outlet port and defining the proximal end of and a top defining the distal end of said fluid-absorbent member. WO 2014/036100 PCT/US2013/057017 46 .7. The dispensing applicator of claim 11, wherein said cover has a bottom juxtaposed with a base of said fiuid-absorbent member and a pair of flanks converging awards sad distal end of said fluid absorbent member and having free ends, said free aids being spaced apart and terminating at a distance from said distal end so as to allow aid fluid to propagate aerOSsaid fluid absorbent member in a vicinity of said distal ad of said fluid absorbent member.

18. The dispensing applicator of claim II, wherein a bottom of said cover is configured so as to sealingly surround an outlet port. lR The dispensing applicator of claim 11, wherein said cover has a generally cup saped cross section. 2), The dispensing applicator of claim 11, further comprising an attachment member it flow communication with said fluid source, and at least one capillary tube configured to provide flow communication between said fluid source and said frangible region., wherein the at least one capilary tube is shaped and dimensioned to minimize a rate at wAhich said fluid is being delivered to said absorbent member,