CA2964457A1 - Metered dosing method and mechanisms thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

Enhanced metering systems for managing dosing aliquots feature cartridge housings for exchangeable cartridge with plugs for housing functional substances, extruding conduit tips with fluid flow conduits driven by advancing members for driving amounts of metered functional substance throughout the tips. Manual, pneumatic electrical and/or electronic means for advancing, combined with one way valves, viewing slots, multiple metering and dispensing ports enable two cartridge to be metered at once, as shown by graduated scales.

Description

2 MEIERED DOSiNG METHOD AND MFCHANISMS THEREOF
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
1:00011 The present invention relates to handheld dispensing apparatus and more specifically to a configuration for metered dispensing of a functional substance.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
(0002I Metered dispensing methods are commonly used ID dispense products whereby accurate delivery of a specific amount of substance is required, such as in pharmaceutical applications for dosage of a therapeutic substance. Metered dosages can be required for topical, sublingual, oral or inhalable therapeutic reasons and could further be useful in administration of specific functional formulations for non-pharmaceutical uses, such as cosmetic, food, flavor or additive uses, (0.0031 Simple to use, diverse and efficient tools for dispensing metered formulations are not readily availabie.. Simple approaches like tincture droppers, gradated syringes or general approaches like a pinch, a grain of rice, or a match head to describe the quantity are not sufficient for a large number of efficient and effective uses.
[00041 The Present disclosure provides methods, apparatus and mechanisms for dispensing of substances in an accurate manner. Additionally the use of simple devices to aid in calculation of individualized dosages is disclosed, SUMMARY OF THE: INVENTION
(0005] The present invention relates to handheld metered dispensing apparatus for quantitative extrusion of one or more functional substances. Furthermore, the present invention is intended for providing a user a relatively simple and accurate means for dosing a furictivnai uutx.ktance. A functIona substance disclosed herein is intended prima* to be a composition for exposure to a person, animal, or plant by consumption or topical application; furthermore, the substance is intended to provide a function in context of biological activity or alleged biological activity. Furthermore, the present invention provides a means for exchanging a functional substance by means of an exchanigeablY retained cartridge, for re-use of a device of the present invention for a plurality of functional substances.

=
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[00081 FIG. I is a perspective view of a device assembly in accordance with the Present invention [0007] FIG, 2 is an exploded view of a device assembly of FIG. 1, [0008] FIG. 3 is a transverse cross sectional view I of an embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0009] FIG. 4 is a transverse plan view of one embodiment of the present invention utilizing a mechanical rotating element advancing member, [0010] FIG, 5 is an exploded view of the embodiment of Ha 4.
(0011] FIG, 6 is a transverse cross sectional view U of the embodiment of FIG. 4, [0012] FIG. 7 is a detail cross sectional view 33 of FIG. 6 rotated 90 degrees from the plane of view to illustrate further detail and illustrate an interaction between a rotating element and an advanceable screw.
[0013] FIG. 8 is a top view of the mechanism housing of the embodiment of FIG.

illustrating depressed lobes in an annular housing feature.
(0014] FIG. 9 is a proximal perspective view of a multi-lobed pin of the embodiment of FIG. 4, [0015] FIG. 10 is a transverse plan view of an embodiment of the present invention employing an advanceable stop mechanism.
1:00181 FiG, 11 is a perspective an view of the embodiment depicted in FIG.

including cartridge viewing slot.
[0017] FIG, 12 is a transverse cross sectional view Ifl of FIG. 10, [00131 FIG. 13 is a detail cross sectional view 64 of FIG, 12:
(0019] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10 (0020] FIG.. 15 is a perspective plan view of an embodiment of the present invention employing an eecixisaly powered advancing member, 100211 FIG. 16 is ?-..z perspective plan view of an embodiment depicted in PG, 15 including a cartridge viewing slot in the device housing, (0022] MG. 17 is a transverse cross sectional view of the embodiment depicted in [00231 Fla 18 is a detail cross sectional view 76 of FIG. 17.
[0024] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of an embodiment depicted in FIG. 15 [00251 FIG. 20 is perspective plan view of an embodiment of the present invention employing a pneumatic advancing member.
(002e1 FIG. 21 is a transverse cross sectional view V of Fla 20, 100271 AG, 22 is a detail cross se.ctionai vw 122 of AG, 21.
(00281 FIG. 23 is an exploded view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 20.
[00291 FIG, 24 is distal perspective plan view of an embodiment of the present invention housing multiple, cartridges in one cartridge housing.
(00301 FIG. 25 is an exploded view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 24.
t00311 FIG, 26 is a transverse cross section& view of an embodiment of an SSPCRE.
p0321 FIG.
27 is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an SSPCRE including a unidirectional valve.
100$31 AG. 28 is a transverse cross section& view of an alternative embodiment of an SSPCRE including a distal facing needle conduit.
f00341 !,q trA-cve'se -rns<k '='=itPrnatiPe PMbndiment. 0$
, ==,== = = . = , an NISPCRE including a unidirectional valve, [N.135] FIG, 30 is a transverse oros.- set-xtionai view of an alternative embodimwIt of an iVISPGRE including a distal facing needle conduit.
[00361 FiG. SI is a transverse cross sectional view of one embodiment of an exchangeable cartridge.
100371 Fn.
32 is a transverse cross sectional view oi an :alternative embodiment of an exchangeable cartridge.
100361 FIG.
32 is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embedment of an exchangeable cartridge.
[00491 FIG.
33 is a transverse cross sectiona) viow Q-f an ailvrnativu embodiment of an exchangeable cartridge.
r041 311 transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of ... = =. =
an exchangeable cartridge.
[00411 FIG,.

3$ is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an exchangeable cartridge.

[004:4 FIG. 36 is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an exchangeabie cw-tridge illustrating a variant end film type.
[00$31 FIG. 37 is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an exchangeable cartridge casing having a key slot.
ra.t41 FIG. 38 is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention wherein two devices of the present invention are fixed together into a single device.
190451 FIG. 39 is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of FIG. 10, illustra.ting the functional action of the pesent invention.
pmq FIG. 40 is a detail transverse cross sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention including a heating band associaW, watt the cartridge housing.
P047,1 FIG. 41 is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an exchangeable cartridge, casing having a tapered proximal end providing an extrusion conduit tokaal FIG, 42 is a transverse cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an exchangeable cartridga havino an integral conduit tip and cart.ridge retaining element.
[01.1491 FIG. 43 is a proximal end perspective view of a cartridge having a proximal end resistive cross-slit valve.
[0980.1 Fla 44, is an embodiment of The tip of the present invention.
[0061] FIG. 45 is an embodiment of the tip of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[oon] illustrative embodiments and exemplaiy applications will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings to disclose the advantageous teachings of the present invention but in no way are meant to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
N063] in this disclosure, relational terms such as first and second, too and bottom, proximal and distal, upper and lower, end the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such SlititiOS or actions. in this disclosure, the use ot the term "distal" with relation to the anatomy of the present invention may be used to distinouish the end of the disclosed assembly that is at the farthest end from the extruding conduit, while the "proximar end refers to the farthest

4 end of the extruding conduit. However, the relative positions and orientations of components or %attires of a hard k. metered extrusion device .are described and depicted for illustrative purposes and are not required uniem expressly stated, Furthemlore, accessory items or other elements may be distal to the extrusion conduit in some embodiments.
[ON in this disclosure, the term "functional substance' shall be understood to represent a chemical species, composition, or mixture thereof, which is intended to be a viscous or free flo,,,,,4ng liquid, but may exist in solidified or near solid states when in storage under physical conditions that would alter the physical state of the composition. The functional component may be compnsed of any simile chemical species or combination of chemical species having desirable properties and being suitable for extrusion out of the device and suitabie for use in the present invention, Furthermore, the functional substance need not be liquid, but may for example be crystalline or otherwise solid without department from the scope of the invention.
The functional substance may comprise a consumable and/or pharmaceutical composition.
1:0065,1 Furthermore, in embodiments of the present invention a cartridge may be comprised of a -functional substance reservoir section, which may also be surrounded partially or wholly by a protection or otherwise functional casing. in such an embodiment, the reservoir and casino may be composed of different materials, [OM] In embodiments of the present invention a cartridge may include a proximal end feature, which may serve to retain the cartridge to an extrusion tip section. Such a feature may include helical threads, flexible tabs, magnetic features, or any other suitable mechanism for retaining the cartridge to an extrusion tip.. Furthermore, a sealing cap or protective cover may be provided to prevent exposure of the proximal end conduit section to the environment.
itOtin in particular, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for metered extrusion of a functional substance is provided. The apparatus may comprise a metered extrusion of a functional substance is provided. The apparatus may comprise a metered advancing member: a housin for receiving and containing an exchangeable functional substance cartridge, an extrusion conduit, and a removably associated extrusion conduit cover.
The assembly of components would be configured for extruding a particular volume of -funcrtionai substance from the proximal end of the extrusion conduit.
1-0058] An exchangeable functional substance cartridge, which may sometimes be termed 'cartridge" or "exchangeable cartridge' herein, suitable for use with embodiments of the present invention may consist of at least a casing and a functional substance.
Furthermore, the ends of the casing may be sealed completely, and where present, the casing may include open ends that may be sealed for storage and shipment by removable adhered film and/or puncturable.
septa. Additionally, in various embodiments, a cartridge may also include a plug in one end, preferably at the distal end, which may serve as a plunger when actuated by a piston associated with a metering advancing member. In yet other embodiments, one or both open ends of the casing may be sealed with a stopper, plug, or other suitable element that would act to seal the fluid in the cartridge and prevent the influx of atmospheric gases that may cause adverse reactions with the functional substance or otherwise spoil the contents.
infitS91 In additional embodiments of a cartridge, a cartridge may inciude a proximal section that may serve as the extrusion conduit. Preferably, the section proximal end would be of a reduced bore to provide a user ease of placement of the extruded substance at a particular location.. in such an embodiment, a cartridge may also feature sealing ends and caps suitable for providing proper seal and storage conditions while not in use.
MON] in additional embodiment of a cartridge, a cartridge may include a section or element that may serve to removably retain the cartridge to a cartridge housing or advancing member to negate the need for any other cartridge retaining element.
0611 As an additional feature of the cartridge of the present invention, a cartridge may include a fluid control valve, such as a unidirectional valve or a valve resistive to fluid flow at its proximal end. In embodiments including a unidirectional valve, the valve would serve to prevent reverse flow of 'fluids into the cartridge and to retain a functional substance in the cartridge while not in use. In an embodiment including a resistive vaive, preferably the valve would only permit fluid flow when an appropriate pressure is applied. In such an embodiment, the resistive valve would permit a user to exchange a cartridge whenever desired by preventing the free flow of fluid out of the proximal end, Only when pressure is applied by an advancing member would the fluid be permitted to flow through the valve. The pressure required to "crack" the valve would be obvious to one skilled in the art arid would preferably be designed to accommodate ease of use and function of the present invention.
M621 Furthermore, in embodiments of the present invention a cartridge may be manually insertabie and removably retained in a housing, which in turn may be retained, supported, and/or partially or wholly enclosed by a cartridge retaining element, feature or section.
1.00631 Furthermore, a cartridge casing may be constructed from any suitable material, which may include, but is in no way limited to, glass, stainless steel, plastic film, brass, aluminum, ceramic or ceramic composites, plastic, polymeric: oomr:osites, zinc, and coated metais such as nickel plated brass.
0641 Functional liquids that may be adantageously contained in cartridges according to the invention include, without limitation, esters, acetate esters, alcohols, acids, lactones, carbonyls, amides, phenols, iso).-3re.nes, terpenes, thiols, saturated and unsaturated thlosuifinates, hemiterpenes, monoterpenesõ sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, sesterterpenes, triterpenes, sesquarterperies, tetraterpenes, polyterpenes, norisoprenoids, and derivatives thereof, such as terpin hydrate, a derivative of turpentine; natural flavor compounds such as those often found In fruits, including but not limited to: Gamma Decalactone, Gamma Octaiactone, Butyric Acid, 2-Methyl Butyric Acid, Proprionic Acid, iscvaleno Acid, isobutyric Add, Cinne.n-iic Acid, Phenethyl Alcohol, Ethyl Butiirate, Ethyl lsobulyrate, Ethyl-2-Methyl Butyrate, Ethyl isovaierate, Methyl Cinnamate, Ethyl Proprionate, Ethyl Hexancate, iscarriyi lsovale.rate, Phenethyl Acetate, (Z)-3-hexenal, beta-lorioneõhexanal, beta-damasosnone, I-penten-3-one, 3-methyleutanal, (E)-2-1-lexanal, 245.1cbutyitniazcie, 1-nitrophenyletharie, (E)-2-heotenal, furanones, 2,5-dimethy14-hydroxy-3(2H)-furancne, methyl 2-methylbutanoate, ethyl 2-methy.ipropanoates methyl hexancate, methyl butanoate; trans-2-hexenal, ethyl-MethylblItanoate, ethyl butanoate, trans-2-haxenol, hexyl acetate: ilex!!!
butanoaie, 1-butanot, 1-hexanoi, cis-3-hexenal, cis-3-hexecl, cia-3-hexenyl acetate, ethyi nexanoate, propyi 2-methylbutanclate., 2-methyl-I -butanol, benzyl alcohol. I-octanol,2-,Ohanylethanol, 1,3-oct-514-enedici, 1,3-ootartediol, 4-vinylguaaacci, eudenoi, methylbutanoic acid, 4-hydroxyohenylac.e.tic acid, 3-hydroxy-bete-damascone, 4 hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylacetio acid, 3-oxe,)-alpha-lonol, vom cUol, 3-oxo-P-ionol, dehydrovomifoliol, roseeside; and/or natural flavor compounds such as those found in vegetables, including but not limited to: dimethyl sulfide, thiosuifinates, disulfides, poly-2-propene-I-sultinothioic acid S-2-propenyi ester (allicin), methanesuitinothioic acid S-2-propenyi ester, 2-p.rovene-l-sulfinothiolo acid S-(E,Z)-t-propenyt ester, 2-propene-1-sultinothioic acid S--methyl ester, Linoleic acid, (E)-2-nonenol, (E)-2-norienal, (7)-3-honenol, (7)-3-nonenal, 09 Carbonyls: (22)-3,6-honadienal, (E2)-2,6-nonadienal, 3-metnyibutanoates, 2-phenethyl esters, 2-phenetnyi 3-methylbutanoate, (E)-2-hexenyi 3-methylbutanoate, benzyle 3-methylbutanoate, (E)-24hexenyi 3-methylbutanoate, benzyl 3-methylbutanoate, methyl 3-methylbutanoate, butyi 3-methylbutanoate, methylbutarmate, butyl 3-methylbutansate, 3-methyibutyl 3 methylbutaricate, (F)-2-pentenyl 3-methylbuta.noate, 2-ohenethyl nexanoate, sesquitenoene alcohol, cubenot, phthalid.es, 3-butylphthaildes, 3-butuyi--4,5-ditlydrophalide, cis and trans forms of 3-buty1-3a,4,5,6-tetranydrophlhalide, (Z)-llaustilide, I -(E,7)-3,5,--undecatriene sesquinterpene hydrocarbons, alc,,,ha-copane, alpha.-rnuuroiene, alpha-calacorene, cadinenes, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, 2-etny1-3,6-dimethylpyrazine, acetaldehyde, 3-mE.Mylbutanal, 4-vinylgualacol, 2-acetylthiazole, 2-aceivi-2-thiazoline, 2-(I -hydroxye,htyl)-4,5-dihydrothiazole, 2,5-Dimethyl-4-hydroxy-3f2H)-1uranone, hydrogen sulfide, metinahethiol, ethanethiol, octa-1,5-dien-3-one, linalsol, (E,E)-deca-2,4-dienal, p-mentha-1,3,4-triene, myrcene, 2-sec-buty1-3-methoxypyrazine, rnyristicin, (E,E)-deca-2,4-dienal, (Z)-dec-6-ena.1, Beta-ohellandrene, (Z)-hex-3-enal, (Z)-nex-3-enol, (2)-hek-3-enyl acetate, vaniilin, menthol, methyl salicylate, 3,7-auahdiene, clea-cadinene, cannabinoids, nicotine, caffeine, citicoline, and laurine, The current invention may also employ the vast array of melanoidins, a class of chemicals produced by Meard reactions, wherein amino acids and reducing sugars are heated together to produce complex composittons of chernicais derived therefrom. In addition, Alkaloids, steroids, inddesõ dia2epines, pharmaceutical formulations, therapeutic formulations, biclocics, protein solutions, recombinant protein solutions, amino acid polymers, natwal or recombinant/ synthetic deoxyribonucleic acid polymers, natural or recombinant/

synthetic ribonucleic polymers, solutions ol railiraily derived or recombinant single or double stranded RNA solutions, solutions of natural or recombinant pfasmids, natural or recombinant/ synthetic cosmids, viruses, bacteria, fungi, orotists, algae, prions, or other microorganisms, particles, organelies themcf, extracts from plants, inciuding essemial oils, arid/ or other biological or biologically active components and materials may be CARTRIDGE HOUSING
1(006.51 The present invention includes a cartridge housing for housing and/or retaining at least one exchangeable cartridge. As a further aspect of the cartridge housina, the housing may serve as anchor for cartridges, cartridge retaining eiments, metered advancing members, or other features of the ;z.resent invention that would interact with the exchangeable cartridge. In various embodiments, the housing may Integrally contain an entirety or portion of certain elements of the present invention, such as an extrusion conduit or an advancing member, 00661 in one embodiment of a cartridge housing, the cartridge housing includes a Proximal opening for receiving an exchangeable cartridge and a distal end for interfr.-acing ..414th or being integral with a metered advancing member.
Furthermore in such an embodiment, a removably fixed cartridge retaining element would exist at the proximal end to retain the cartridge in the housing. in a similar but alternative embodiment, a cartridge having at least an integral extrusion conduit tip and housing anchoring element may be removably retained by the housing at its proximal end, [OW] In an alternative embodiment of a cartridge' housing, the cartridge housing may receive a catricigs, from its distal end at a distal oponing, Furthermore, in euch en embodiment, the dadrid[,le would be retained by a removably fixed distal cartridge retaining element, which may comprise a metered advancing member or an adaptor to a metered advancing member. in such an embodiment, the housing may include internal features at its proximal end for retaining the cartridge inside the housing, or may alternatively accept a removably liKed cartridge retaining element at its proximal end.
The Proximal retaining element may interact with the cartridge to aid in retaining it in the housings or alternatively an extrusion conduit may simply be femme* or permanently fixod to the housings proximal end and would only serve as a Ituid flow conduit.
Furthermore, in various embodiments and assemblies of disclosed elements, the cartridge housing may be constructed to accept a cartridge from either its proxThial or distal end.

rptlÃ81 As a further aspect of the previously disclosed features of extrusion conduit tips, SSPCRE, and MSPCRE, an extrusion tip or assembly in general may include a feature for exchangeable/ fixing a proximal end feature of an exchangeable cartridge to the extrusion tip. In such an arrangement, the exchangeable cartridge could be fixed to the extrusion tip, resulting in a tip/cartridge complex which could then be inserted and exohangeably fixed to the cartridge housing. Any suitable anchoring mechanism could be employed: where for example, a threaded feature of the extrusion tip body or assembly body:
f006.9,1 in an additional embodiment, a cartridge housing may be composed of a housing structure and a heating jacket or element to surround a cartridge or be in contact with a cartridge in such a way to deliver heat enemy to the functional substance retained in the exchangeable cartridge.
NOM] In yet an additional embodiment, a cartridge housing may be composed of a housing structure or be associated with an element thereof that may be heated vie an outside heat source, such as a microwave, which may infuse a notable abundance of heat energy into the housing itself or the element so as to extend the warmed state of a cartridge installed in it previously or thereafter. Furthermore, in an embodiment employing a specific element for retaining a large portion of heat, the material would preferably consist of a substance capable of retaining a significant amount of heat.
[00711 As a further aspect of embodiments of cartridge housings, a cartridge housing may include a visible graduated scale on its exterior to communicate to the user a particular measurement in relation to the amount of functional substance extruded by the device.
Furthermore, to aid in the visualization of the contents of the exchangeable cartridge, a housing may include a viewing port in its side, such as a slot. Alternatively, the housing may be constructed from a visibly clear material, such as poiycarbonate plastic, that would permit the viewing of its contents. in such an embodiment, a graduated scaic may also be included and may be printed on an interior or exterior surface.
(00721, As a further aspect of conduit tips including valves, the valve may be arranged to he positioned at the most proximal extent as possible: so that upon extrusion the valve may help retain excess fluid flow from the conduit and prevent extrusion of too much material.
Furthermore, in such an arrangement, the valve may be removeably retained by a protective cover that is also removeebly retained. An example of such an arrangement would be a protruding proximal conduit tube section, which could retain a valve having a sleeve section that fits over the end of the tube. Furthermore, the arrangement could be made to receive a removeably retained cap, having an axial through hole, that covers and prevents the valve from be pushed off the and of the tube while still permitting flow of the extrudate from the valve.
Such an assembly would advantageously permit a user to install a flow control valve directly at the point of extrusion so as to minimize unwanted excess flow from the conduit tube after the extrusion event.
1.00731 When an apparatus according to the present invention includes a cartridge that has integrated into it an extrusion conduit tip, the cartridge may be removably retained to a cartridge housing by a retention element that seNes only to lock the cartridge into the housing. The element may comprise an annular object that may be threaded or otheiwise made to be able to anchor to a cartridge housing and claim or otherwise fix a cartridge in place.
in an additional embodiment, a cartridge having a housing retention element integrated into the cartridge could similarly have an anchoring mechanism to retain the cartridge into the housing but would not require any auxiliary parts to retain it to the housing, PROXIMAL CARTRIDGE RETAINERS
[0474,1 When an apparatus according to the present invention includes a proximal cartridge retaining element, the cartridge retaining lenient may comprise a single section or two or more separate sections removably or irremovably connected together. in any proximal cartridge retaining element embodiment, the element as a whole would serve to at least retain an exchangeable functional substance cartridge in or to a cartridge housing and in some embodiments may also provide a fluid flow conduit through the body from its axial end to end that may or may not he interposed by other functional elements, such as valves or other features.
PROXIMAL CARTRIDGE RETAINING ELEMENT SINGLE SECTION
(0075] When an apparatus according to the present invention includes a single section proximal cartridge retaining eiement: alternatively termed "SSPGRE" herein, the element would be composed of at least a feature at its distal and for connecting to a cartridge housing at the cartridge hciusing's proximal end, a fluid flow conduit from its axial end to end, and may or may not include various features or elements provided in-line with the fluid conduit. Furthermore a SSPCRE would contain a fluid flow conduit from end to end made to be in fluid communication with a functional substance retained in an exchangeable cartridge and a port or orifice at its proximal end for permitting the extrusion of functional substance out of the proximal end of the assembly thereof. Furthermore, the sinole section proximal cartridge retaining element may also house other elements such as unidirectional ,sralves, hea.ting elements, or other functional elements interposed between the SSPCRE and the cartridge. housing.
Furthermore, the SSPCRE may also partially house one end of the exchangeable aaftridge if the cartridge protrudes from the cartridge housing to some measurable extent. Man 'additional feature, the SSPCRE may have a tapered needle section around the fluid flow conduit at a distal poson for puncturing a septum and/or film on the end of an exchangeable cartridge.
Furthermore, the SSPCRE may contain a septum or septa for amepting a needie from an external device for refining a housed exchangeable cartridge or for accepting fluid flow from the present invention, As a further feature, the SSPCRE may contain a heating element, such as a resistive coil or any other suitable heating element. As yet an additional feature, the structure of the SSPCRE may include geometrical features, such as slots, electrical contacts, or other features that may allow it to interface favorable with external devices or objects. As a whole, the SSPCRE would function to retain an exchangeable cartridge, provide a fli3id flow path for extrusion, provide a heat source, and may also provide other features for mating with external devices or present fluid reverse flow by way of unidirectional flow control PROXIMAL CARTRIDGE RUNNING ELEMENT MULTIPLE SECTIONS
[NM When an apparatus according to the present invention includes a cartridge retaining element comprised of multiple sections, alternatively termed 1:4SPCRE" herein, the element assembly would have at least at the distai end of the assembly a feature, or section, or feature of a section for removably connecting to a cartridge housing's proximal end.
Furthermore .the element would include a fluid flow conduit from end to end in fluid communication with the functional substance retained in an exchangeable caiVidoe and an open end of the fluid flow conduit at the proximal end of the assembly of sections that would permit the extrusion of the functional substance at a particular location exterior to the proximal end of the present invention, LOOM In one embodiment of a MSPCRE consistino of two distinct sections, the two sections would compose a first cartridge retaining. section for connecting with a cartridge housing, retaining an exchangeable cartridge, and establishing fluid communication with a functional substance. The second section proximal to the first would function as an extended extrusion conduit tip having an open ended fluid flow conduit through its core.
Furthermore, in alternative embodiments, interposed between the two sections or integrated with one or both of the sections would also be additional features, elements or sections that may provide other desirable functions, such as unidirectional flow, a distinct housing section for a unidirectional valve, a septum, a flow restrictor, a heating element, an adaptor for rapidly exthanaing extrusion conduit tips, or any other feature or element that may enhance the function of the apparatus. Furthermore, the MSPCRE may be composed of multiple sections, which may collectively compose any portion or feature of previously disclosed embodiments or features of extrusion conduits tips or single section proximal cartridge retaining elements.
ASIVIOSPHERIC EXPOSURE REDUCTION
õ
.(uusiol As a further elaboration of the previously disclosed features of extrusion conduit tips.
SSPCRE, and MSPCRE, the elements may provide a system for reducing atmospheric gas exposure by including a reduced diameter office, a punclurable septum, and/or include a unidirectional valve that would permit flow of Functional substance out of the exchangeable cartridge, while also preventing influx of atmospheric gases into the cartridge. In embodiments employing a puncturabie septum, the septum would preferably consist of an elestomeric and/or polymeric film or series thereof, which could be punctured by a conduit needle. Furthermore;
preferably the septum material would consist of chemical resistant materials, which could also be used in applications for food goods exposure. Exemplary materials are silicone, FIFE
(Polytetrafluorc.)ethylene), Vitor*.), Nylon, PEEK (Polyether ether ketone), and oPET
oriented polyethylene terephthalate), but would not be limited to such materials, in all cases, one skiiied in the art would recognize appropriate materials, applications, and uses thereof.
[90791 Furthermore, Embodiments of such elements employing a unidirectional valve may utilize any suitable valve, but for example could employ duckbilL umbrella, umbrella/duck combinations, cross slit, dome, or bail valves. Preferably the valves would consist of chemically resistant and food exposure suitable materials such as silicone., fluorosilicone, fluoroelastomer, natural rubber polyisoprene, butyl, ethane propylene, nitrile, or any other suitable material, but would not be limited to such materials. In all cases, one skilled in the art would recognize appropriate materials, applications, and uses thereof.
DISTAL CARTRIDGE RETAINING ELEMENTS
[0080,1 in accordance with the present invention, in certain embodiments, a cartridge housing may have an opening at its distal end for receiving an exchangeable cartridge and a cartridge retaining element for retaining the cartridge in the housing. In such an embodiment, the cartridge retaining element may be a composition of a retaining element and a metered advancing member or simply a cartridge retaining element that may be at the distal end of the assembly or interposed between the housing and the metered advancing member.

PROXiMAL CAP
10081] As an additional aspect of the present invention, preferably the device would be provided with a removably retained proximal cover, alternatively termed "proximai cap"
herein. The proximal cap would be located proximal to the extrusion conduit element and would serve to cover the exposed end of the extrusion conduit to further prevent atmospheric exposure, contain accidental leaks, prevent damage to the conduit, prevent possible injury that could arise from a stabbing with a reduced end of the extrusion corduitõ or be provided for general storage and aesthetic purposes. In embodiments having multiple extrusion conduits, multiple proximal caps may be provided.
METERED ADVANCING MEMBERS
[00821 in accordance with the present invention, a cartridge housing would include or have associated with it a metered advancing member. Such a mechanism would interact with an exchangeable functional substance cartridge at its distal end by driving a piston or screw into or otherwise actuating or compressing a functional substance out of the exchangeable cartridge at its proximal end. Furthermore, the advancing member would preferably include a metering capability that would allow a user to advance the actuation a desired quantity either by visual indication, by tactile feedback, or by both simultaneously. Furthermore in various embodiments, a metering advancing member may include visible graduation scales to indicate to a user advancement distances and cartridge content volume. Additionally, the advancing piston, screw, or other suitable element may have a permanently associated plunger plug for driving the functional substance out of the exchangeable functional substance cartridge or otherwise may interact with a plug pre-installed in a cartridge to provide the same result.
i'00831. A metered advancing member of the present invention would function to drive the flow of functional substance out of the exchangeable cartridge in a metered and controlled fashion in all embtxtinents of a metered advancing member, the advancing members would act on the distal end of an exchangeable cartridge, apply a pressure to a retained substance with a plunger, and force functional substance out of its proximal endõAlternatively, when a cartridge is employed that has a casing made of a flexible substance of film, an advancing member may progressively squeeze the casing to force extrusion out of the cartridge, such as with a plate or with rollers.
M0841 In accordance with the present iiwention, a metered advancing member may be comprised of any suitable mechanism that performs the intended function of the present invention. in particular, several embodiments are described in detail herein, but it should be appreciated that many alternatives and mechanistic designs and features thereof, such as electrical elements, are contemplated and envisaged and one skilled in the art would recognise that the mechanisms and features disclose,d herein in generaRy can be i,:ixtended to other variations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
(00851 Furthermore, in various embodiments, metered advancing members disciosed herein may be coupled or combined with any other features of the invention either in part or in whole, such as cartridge housing, attachment adaptors. cartridge retaining elements, or other features disclosed herein_ For example, a mechanism housing may be combined with a cartridge housing to comprise a single part. Additionally said advancing members may optionally be controlled through wireless communication mechanisms.
MECHANISM DISCLOSURES
SIMPLE
100861 In one embodiment of a metered advancing member, the metered advancing member would consist of a mechanism housing, a plunger rod, a finger grip; and a housing distal end cap. in one embodiment, the mechanism housing may be combined with a cartridge housing, to represent a single part, and may with its interior bore slidingly engage with a finger grip attached to a plunger rod, the plunger rod alone, or both simultaneously. Together the finder grip and rod would maintain axial alignment inside the housing to allow the plunger rod to interact with the exchangeable cailridoe and actuate flow of the functional substance.
Alternatively, the finger grip would be associated with the plunger rod and the plunger rod would slidingly engage with an annular slot interposed between the cartridge and the advancing member that WOuki maintain the plunger rod in axial alignment with the cartridge. In all variations, the mechanism housing would provide a slot for the finger grip to pass through, which would also be abutted by a graduated scale marked on the vis ble exterior surface of the housing to indicate the relative poston of the plunger and advancement distances possible or already performed.
Additionally, in both cases, preferably the distal end of the housing would have a cover or cap that may be permanently or removably retained to permit ttle initial construction or intermittent deconstruction or the assembly in an alternative einboctiment, a similar an-angement couid provided whereby a tactile feedback mechanism would he included wherein a portion of the finger grip would interact with raised or recessed features in series along the length of the slot and as the finger grip is forced through the slot, the element of the finger grip, which for example -mild be a spring meta/ flange, would form a resistive contact with the slot features as each feature is passed. Such a mechanism could be used to indicate the advancement of a defined distance that corresponds with a defined volume of functional substance extruded. in all emoodiments, preferably the sliding action of the rod would be accompanied by a moderate resistance to movement so the rod does not slide freely back and forth without force generated by a user's hand.
SCREW AN CLICK
1,00871 in an alternative embodiment of a metered advancing member, the metered advancing member may comprise a scredriven plunger and an element rotated by a user to drive the screw plunger. in embodiments utilizing a screw-driven plunger or plunger rod, the screw may be driven by rotating action provided by a user. in various embodiments, the advancement of the screw may be accompanied by a tactile feedback, such as a clicking action.
Furthermore in various embodiments, the advancing distance may be preset or adjustable by the user.
[00.883 Furthermore, in one embodiment, the advancement of a said plunger screw could be provided by a user driven rotating element that does not become displaced in the proximal or distal direction, but rather would only rotate in position about its axis.
This could be achieved by employing a plunger with, for example, a square-like or iectangular-like shaft having two flat faces, and two externally threaded radial faces. With such an arrangement, the shaft could be rotated by a user's manual rotational of the rotating element, which would apply force on the shaft's flat faces while the threads simultaneously interact with a stationary threaded hole in the housing, causing the screw to advance along its axis in accordanixi, with the pitch of the helical thread. Furthermore, the manually rotated element would permit the shaft to slide through its body along the fiat faces as the screw advances, in such an embodiment, the manually rotated element may be visibly clear and may have on it printed a graduated scale, which could be situated circumferentially around the rotated element, which would coordinate with the position of the distal end of the screw shaft to indicate to the user the position or the screw in relation to the cartridge.
00891 Furthermore, in an additional embodiment, the manually rotated element may have associated with it a composition of elements that may provide a tactile feedback when the manually rotatable element is rotated to indicate a certain advancement of the element. In one embodiment, the manually rotatable element may retain a length of spring metal sheet or wire with a radially protruding tab or bend that would interact with an interior diameter slot of a hollow cylindrie.al housing. In such an arrangement, the spring metal tab would interact with a series of raised features of the slot to cause a resistance to rotation and a ilck ke tactile feedback.
W941 in an alternative embodiment, a resistance to rotation and a "click" like tactile feedback could be provided by rotational coordination of a manually rotatable element with a multi-lobo pin with protruding lobes having a hole bored through its center to permit the free passage of a.
dual fiat-sided advancing screw. Furthermore, the multi-loct pin would be arranged to be forced into and interact with matching arrangement of recessed lobes in an annular section of the mechanism housing, which would also have located at its center a threaded hole for mating with the advancement screw. Furthermore, as a final feature, the multi-lobed-pin would be forced into the recessed lobes with a metal spring backed up against a slot in the manually rotatable element In concert, as the manually rotatable element is rotated, the multi-lobed pin is forced to rotate with it and is forced up the recessed lobe ridges and out of the recessed lobe depressions. As the pin is forced upward, and rotates over a lobe ridge: it presents a resistance to rotation and slidingly advanced toward the distal end of the assembly in a slot provided for its travel. Once the rotation has permitted the multi-lobed pin to fall back into the recessed lobe depressions, the force of the spring causes it to snap back into the recessed lobes. As a result the process causes a "click" like tactile feedback to the user rotating the element. In such an embodiment, the manually rotatable element may also feature a visible scale to coordinate with the advanceable screw position. Furthermore, in such an embodiment the rotation could occur in either direction, permitting a user to return the screw to a fully retracted position: allowing the replacement of the cartridge.
(own As a further aspect of the embodiments of a metered advancino member wherein a tactile feedback feature would be employed, the mechanism may employ a "click"
tactile feedback that would indicate the actuator advancement of a predetermined amount or an amount selected by a user. The term 'click" infers either the generation of a unique sound, tactile feedback, or both simultaneously. Furthermore, in the preferred embodiment, the advancement of the mechanism would also be able to be visually indicated to the user as a quantity or advancement along a graduated scale.
to092] For the generation of a tactile feedback associated with an advancement, a variety of mechanisms could be employed to achieve the function_ in one embodiment, the depression of an element associated with the mechanism could be utilized to cause a short and preset advancement of the actuator by driving a piston or screw or short distance or rotation.
Furthermore, in such a mechanism the element depressed would return to its original position to permit additional advancements. Such a mechanism would appear simiee to a retractabie ink pen.
ADVANCEABLE STOP MEGHANiSM
[0093] in other embodiments of a metering mechanism, the mechanism may comprise a depressible piston limited by an advanceable stop. in embodimente employing these elements:
the stop block would preferably be advantmable toward the proximal end of the assembiy and housed within it would be a depressible piston. in Sdf.:1 embodiments, the advancement of the stop wouid preferably not engage with the depressible piston whilst advancing and would remain in its original position untii acted upon and depressed by a user.
Functionally, the interdependent association between the two elements would permit a user to advance the stop a desire distance before driving the piston and the subsequent extrusion of a functional substance out of the exchangeable,: cartridge at its proximai end. Once a user would like to depress the piston and expel the functional substance, the user would apply pressure to the distal end of the piston ¨ depressing it until contact is made with the stop.
The stated mechanism end process wouid permit a user a select a volume of functional substance to expel, then expel the volume in a single rapid event.
posq in one embodiment of the present invention, an advancing member consisting of an advanceabie stop and a depressible piston may comprise an assembly wherein an advanceable stop may consist of an axial bore and an internal helical thread engaged with an external helical thread on the distal end of a cartridge housing, whereby the rotation of the advanceeble stop would cause a traversing of the cartridge housing; wilereby the ro.tation of the advanceable stop would cause a traversing of the cartridge housing. Preferably, the advanceable stop would be assembled in such a fashion that upon reaching the ends of travel the advanceable stop would be halted. Most notably, by limiting the travel, a user would not be inconvenienced by unintentionally disengaging the threads when unscrewing the part at its end of travel at the distal end of the cartridge housing. This may be achieved by use of snap rings during manufacturing assembly or by other features of the two components. erVile.re.
used, a snap ring may consist of a ring having open and disconnected ends that are partially recessed to permit the partial compression of the ring toward its axial minter. in various embodiments; the ring may consist of a wire of various profiles formed into an annular structure or may be a ring produced by stamping. The wire profile may be round, square, triangular, or any other geometry that may serve the halting function and would not be limited to such profiles.
Furthermore, in such an embodiment, preferable the stop block could be advanced in the distateo-proximai direction or prciximat-to-distal, wherein the iater would permit a user to exchange an exhausted functional substance cartridge with a new cartridge.
[00951 in embodiments employing an advanc,eable stop and a depressible piston preferably the advancing member would have ass.ociated with it a visible indication of position and advancement distance. Visible indication could be provided by a graduated scale, multiple scales, or multiple graduated scales visibly interacting with one another to indicate a position, hi embodiments employing a simile graduated scale, the scale would preferably be located on a visible section of the apparatus and may be panially or wholly covered or made not visible as the advanceable sto, is moved ¨ thus indicating the advanced distance or distance still available for advancement. Multiple scales may be employed in a single assembly of the present invention wherein one scale may indicate different a graduation scale than the other.
For example, one scale may indicate a mass as milligrams, while another may indicate a volume as milliliters..
MON in one embodiment, a pair of graduated scales may interact visibly with one another to indicate an advancement. For example, a scale spanning a proximal-to-distal axial length would be marked on a visible surface, such as the outer surface of the cartridge housing, whilst a scale marked on the outer circumference of an advanceable stop may exist toward its leading proximal edge. In such an embodiment; the advanceable stop would partially surround the marked cartridge housing and would engage with a helical thread on the housing.. Rotation of the advanceable stop would cause it to traverse a length of the housing and consequently the scale marked on the housing. Together, the rotating scale marked on the advanceable stop would indicate a fractional advancement of a graduation on the scale marked on the housing as rotation occurs. For example, the engaged thread may have a pitch of lmm and the graduations on the housing may be interspersed by a imm distance. A full (360-degree) rotation by a user would cause the advanceable stop to traverse 1mm of the housing, but it may be that a user would like to be able to traverse a smaller distance while still having available a finer graduation to indicate the resultant displacement caused by a petal rotation, in such an arrangement, the finer graduations would be marked on the visible surface of the advanoaable stop and would coordinate with a marking on the cartridge housing to provide indication of the displacement resulting from a partial rotation.
Nom in futther embodiments of the present invention employing an advanceable stop and a depressible piston, the advanceable stop may include a tactile feedback mechanism or frictionally resistant element to indicate to the user a certain displacement of the advanceable stop. in an embodiment employing a rotation advanced stop, a frictionally resistant or click type of tactiie feedback may be employed to indiwte the displacement of the stop in relation to a full or partial rotation.
[0098) ln additional embodiments of metering 'advancing members, various embodiments may include an electronically driven and controlled actuation of the advancino pis.ton. in such mechanisms, an eledronically controlled actuator would ,oreferably be able to be controlled by a user by interaction with buttons or other control interfaces associated with the housing.
Electrical actuation may be driven by a motor or a solenoid. Further embodiments of eiectrically driven actuation may be wirele.ssly linked to a controller using a human interface.
NOM in embodiments comprised of an electronic motor driven actuation mechanism, the system would preferably be comprised of a user interaction interface, an eiectronic control circuit, a battery, an electronic motor, a power transfer system, an advanceable piston, and a housing.
(001001As a further aspect of a user interaction interface, the interface may simply be a single button or switch, or may comprise multiple buttons, keypads, or other switch elements that would be in electrical communication with the electrical control circuit Furthermore, a user interaction interface may include a display screen controlled by an electronic control circuit.
Additionally manual switches or buttons may comprise any type of mechanical switch, such as a push button, or a slider, twist knob or collar; or an electro-mechanical switch, such as a touch screen or other tough sensor which may for example be comprised in a display/control panel or wireiessly connected.
p1.11011As an additional aspect of the present invention with respect to the present embodiment, a selectively engadeable thread system may be employed to permit the user to slide the advanceable stop along its axis without rotation until the user chooses to engage the helical thread that is used to advance the advanceabie stop when selecting a volume of extrudate to extrude. Such a composition would function by mechanic.:ally engaging or disengaging the helical threads of the cartridge housing and the advanceabie rotatable element. For example, in such a case, the cartridge housing section may include a plurality of threaded blocks that can be retracted away from or extended out to the point of engagement. in one embodiment, the cartridge housing would be arranged to have an array of radial slots for housing radially extendible blocks, each having a single o.utwardly projecting helical threaded face. The Nooks may be extended and retracted through any suitabre mechanism, where for example, in the case of three blocks, a lobed tam may be positioned below the blocks toward the center axis where the lobed cam is rotated by the plunger pin The blocks may be retained toward the center axis and into their housing slots by a circular spring, such as a garter spring or end connected extension spring. In such an arrangement, the lobes of the cam would be designed to force the blocks outward radially to an extent that their threaded faces would become engaged with the internal thread of the advanceable rotatable element of the advanceable stop.
While in this state, the threads wouid be engaged and rotation of thi.:.N
advanceable stop would cause a translation across the cartridge housing with respect to the pitch of the helical thread.
Whim a user would like to disengage the thread to retract the advanceable stop to a new position to avoid inconvenient screwing action, the user could twist the plunger pin, causing the blocks to retract to the lower section of the lobed cam, become disengaged with the thread, and release the advanceable stop from the thread. Reengaging the thread could be performed by once more rotating the plunger pin to a position where the lobes push the blocks back out to a point of thread engagement.
mini in one embodiment, the control circuit includes a memory storage element capabie of recording and storing usage data relevant to the user, as well as any other information delivered to the device by means of electrical i.µ,ornmunication by either a direct wire connection or a wireless communication mechanism. This data may include, for example, cumulative consumption of the functional substance over a given time period; volumes of functional substance use by the user; time periods between uses; temperature profiles of one or more components; power consumption history; stored preferences or settings; and alternate modes of Lisa., such as previous combinations of components connected in the device assembly, and in what order they were connected, and/or particular encoded information ide.ntifying attributes o.f component, such as its part of serial number, a flavor or substance that it contains or may contain, for example. Furthermore, the data stored may be used by processing units to control the mechanisms of the present invention. One skilled in the art Mil a.ppreciate that these types of data are disclosed by way of example and should not be considered to limit the scope of information that may be stored in the memory storage element within the scope of the invention.
[OOO] Preferably, an electronic controller includes one or more processing elementsiprocessors. For example, the processors could be used to determine what is displayed on display/control panel and/or to actuate automatically advancing members or elements in accordance with data and logic processed by the processors. One skilled in the art will appreciate the diverse extensions of the use of proce.ssors in the present invention, which are by no means restricted to the 'processing examples disclosed herein.
1-001041As an alternative to simple manuai actuation, actuation of an advancing member may occur automatically in response to the input, of a passaide matching a valid passcode stored in a memory of a controller. Alternatively, a correct F.lasscode entry may only "unlock" the advancing function of the devios, without automatically initiating advancement, but instead permitting a user to actuate advancement manually. For instance, after the passcode is successfully validated, a user may press a simple button or switch to initiate actuation. The atomization element may respond to a single manual actuation following passcode validation, a predetermined plural number of manual actuations, for a predetermined amount of time elapsed after passcode validation, or until the processor receives an affirmative user command to "lock' the device again, such as by re-entry of a passcode to toggle back to a locked state, or by a simple manual switch or button. The password may be input by a user directly into display/control panel or communicated to controller from a separate input device or token, such as a user's personal smartphcne, magnetic key card, bat code image, via a WiFi, infrared, BluetootW, RAD, or optical connection, for example.
f001051 in one embodiment, the controller may also include or be operatively linked to a wireless communication element (pot shown in figures) capable of transmitting to another wireless communication device or receive information from said wireless communication device. in general, many wireless network types are contemplated in this disclosure and may include, but are not necessary limited to WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Network), MAN
(Wireless Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), or any other suitable wireless network and communication types. Advantageously, wireless network connectivity enables dispensing devices according to the invention to communicate with or be controlled by a personal electronic device such as a smailphone, for purposes of passcode-enabled actuation or locking/unlocking of one or more functions of the dispensing device (obviating the need for a multi-key user interface on the inhalation device itself), as well as facilitating monitoring/tracking, storage, and analysis of usage data on the personal electronic device.
[OO106] Furthermore as an additional aspect of the electrical control circuit, preferably the circuit would be designed so as to be able to receive and transmit to a battery or a heating element an electrical current from a charging lead, as well as includino electrical communication elements for transmission of data between device 130 and external computation and/or data storage devices, in one embodiment, a connection port (not shown in figures) at the proximal end of a batterlcontroller housing or at the extrusion conduit can be mated with other elements extending proximaily or distally therefrom. When included, such a connection port may also permit electrical communication from the circuitry to one or more actuation mechanisms.
poion As a further aspect of the present invention, the cartridge housing or advancing member may have associated within it a scanner or sensor for detecting a datum or data from an exchangeable cartridge or other object that may then be displayed to a user on the device with an electronic display or used by the electronic control circuit to after the actuation in accordance to the data received.
[001081 Advantageously, electrical controller may be designed to regulate battery charge rate with respect to voltage and current and could prevent battery overcharge.
Furthermore, preferably the electrical control elements would prevent reverse:: polarity damage to the circuit elements or batery, by incorporating appropriateiy configured elements such as diodes, PNP
Transistors, or a P-channel FET.
11001091 As a further aspect of an electronic motor for USG in various embodiments, the motor may be driven by alternating or direct electrical current end would be in electrical communication with a control circuit, in a very simple embodiment, an electrical control circuit may simply comprise an electrical communication between the motor arid a battery, interposed by a current switch. In more advanced mechanisms, the control circuit may comprise other features disclosed herein and also be in electrical communication with the electrical motor. Furthermore, in an alternate embodiment, the advancing member may include multiple electrical motors.
1.001101 As a further aspect of a power transmission assembly, the power transmission may comprise a series of spur gears, worm gear, helical gears, planetary gears, or any other suitable gears for transfer oi rotational force from an electrical motor to an advancing piston. Alternatively, in an additional embodiment, a belt driven or frictional clutch systems may employed, PNEUMATIC SYSTEM
[001111 In an additional embodiment of a metering advancing member, a pneumatic system may be employed by use of a portable compressed gas container in association with an advancement mechanism. in such an embodiment, gas pressure provided by an onboard pressure reservoir, such as a compressed carbon dioxide gas cartridge/
tank, which may be exch-,'.4ngeable or integrated and refiliable, couid be used to drive a pneumatic cylinder piston. in one embodiment, the. compressed gas tank may be exohangeci through a port on a distal portion of the device housing or a proximal portion of the device housing. in yet another embodiment, the compressed gas tank may be exchanged through a hinged door or sliding door on the side of the device housing. in an additional embodiment, the device housing may have a slot permanently cut out of the side of the device housing to permit the exchange of the tank from the side, In ail embodiments, preferably the exchangeable lank wcuid mount dependably in a position and relation with a valve assembly so as to prevent excessive gas leaic. out of its connection points where pressurized gas is made to be in fluid communication with the device or elements thereof.
100112] in 'various embodiments of a pneumatic embodiment of the present invention, the piston would drive a plunger rod for actuating the flow of functional substance out of a cartridge, in embodiments employing a pneumatic cylinder, a single-acting, double-acting, or telescoping cylinder design could be employed as well as cylinder arrangements having a return spring to cause the piston to return to a home/
starting position when pressure is not provided. Actuation of the pneumatic piston would preferably be controlled with a valve mechanism that would be interposed between the pressure, reservoir and the pneumatic cylinder. Furtheimore, preferably The valve assembly would permit a user to change the flow rate and pressure delivered to the cylinder and also include a switch, such as a depressible button to allow a user to actuate the flow manuallyv in an alternative embodiment, a screw driven by a rapid flow of compressed gas through a turbine or other analogous element could be used to advance a screw driven actuator. In yet an additional embodiment, the valve assembly may accept a pressurized gas or other fluid from an external line, such as a gas line from an air compressor.

1(00113) In an additional embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge housing may comprise multiple cartridge retaining sections, so as to permit the containment of multiple exchangeable cartridges in a singlE.13 housinc. Furthermore, in such an embodiment a single advancing member may be employed to operate functionally with multiple cartridges individually or simultaneously. In such an embodiment, the mechanism would require an additional mechanism .for moving the advancing member to each cartridge. in one embodiment a cartridge housing may contain multiple ce&idoes distributed in a radiai array fashion, whereby a single advancing member may be advanced from one cartridge to the next by radially rotating the mechanism from one cartridge to another along the cartridge distribution array pattern. This may be achieved by appending an advanc.',%lng member to a center spindle that would permit the advancing member to reach each cartridge of rotated to the cartridge location.

[00114] in an alternative embodiment, a multi-cartridge housing may be employed that is operated upon by multiple advancing members associated with one or more cartridges R90151 Furthermore in an .sliternative arrandement, multiple individual cartridge housing advancing members may be fixed together into a single unit by an adaptor or other element that may fix them together into a single multi-operational unit, [00116j in an additional embodiment, a plurality of cartridges may be arranged in such a way that functional substance extruded from each cartridge may be combined in a shared flow path to provide convenience to a user and/ or facilitate in--situ mixing of substances prior to final extrusion from the present invention. In one embodiment, a user may choose to extrude a single substance at once, or alternatively a user may mix two or more functional substances together via an element of the present invention prior to tinai extrusion. in one embodiment, a single gauge may he used to operatively select the volume of extrudate from each of multiple cartridges, in another embodiment, multiple meters may be employed to provide a user with the ability to select a particular volume of oxtrudate from each cartridge. In yet another embodiment, a mechanism may be employed whereby extrusion rate and amounts may be controlled individually for each cartridge simultaneously, in such an embodiment an electronically driven or pneumatic advancing member may be employed to provide selective control of extrusion rates from each of multiple cartridges. in one embodiment, a proximal cartridge retaining element may pimide facility and/or conduit for mixing of multiple substances and final extrusion_ in other embodiments, the proximal cartridge retaining element may be composed of multiple sections or elementsõ Furthermore, in alternative embodiments, cartridges may be retained by distal elements and mixing and or mixing mechanisms may exist as integral features of cartridge housing or housings.
[001171 As a funkier aspect of ail the embodiments disclosed herein and envisaged within the scope of the present invention, the materials of which the components would preferably be constructed with may comprise hard materials, such as metals and plastics, opaque or clear substances; such as colored or optically clear plastics or poss.
Furthermore, one skilled in the art would recognize proper material choices for various embodiments and variations thereof and no component should be iimited in any way to a certain material of construction or way of manufacture.

DETAlLiEn DESCRiPT1ON OF DRAVANGS.
1901181 in accordance with asp:...xts of the present invention, various embodiments of the present invention and its components will now be described in greater detail in:
reference to figures and drawings.
i1001193 According to one embodiment of the present invention, presented in FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing cif a complete metered dispensing device 1 incorporating a manually moveable slide driven advancing member. The assembly comprises first a cartridge housing 2 with an installed proximal cap; integrated with the cartridge housing is the advancint3 member comprised of a housino 2, a finger grip 5 associated with a piston (not depicted), an advancement slot 6 for permitting travel of the finger drip, a distal housing cap 4 for retaining the sliding piston, and a visible graduated scale 7 for indicating the relative position of the plunger rod. As further detail, an exploded view of metered dispensing device 1 is presented in FIG. 2 and a transverse sectional view i is presented in FIG. 3, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 provide further detail of the internal components, wherein the assembly consists of first a proximal cap for providing cover for the extruding conduit tip 11; a extrusion conduit tip 11 having a fluid-flow conduit 13, which may alternatively be comprised of multiple sections or elements in various embodiments previously disclosed; an exchangeable cartridge 10 containing a functional substance 12 (depicted in FIG. 3 only); a cartridge plug 9, which may be standalone or fixed to plunger rod 8; a cartridge housing 2 also providing house for the advancing member having a Siding slat 6 and a visible graduated scale 7 (depicted in FIG. 2 only); a plunger rod 8 fixed to finger grip 5; a finger grip 5 having a shape that slidingly engages with the internal bore of housing 2 to maintain axial alignment (-Jf the plunger rod and finger grip; and finally a distal housing cover for keeping the sliding components in place anc easing rnanufact!..
ftMini ACeordina to an additional embodiment of the present invention, pmsented in Fn. 4 s a schematic drawing of a complete metered dispensing device 14 incorporating a manually rotatable element far driving a screw plunger, in accordance with FIG, I. the aseembly 14 comprises a manually mtatable element 15, a cartridge housing 16, an extrusion conduit tip 17, and a proximal cap 18. As iurt!ler detail, r:ir exploded view presented in FIG. 5 presents the internal and external components of the assembly. The assembly is comprised of first a manually rotatable. element 1:5, which may include grip features and textures; a coil spring 23 for providing pressure against muiti-lobed pin 22, an advanceable screw 20, a cartridge housing and advancing member 16, an exchangeable cartridge 19 containing a functional substance (not depicted), an extrusion conduit tip 17, which may alternatively be comprised of multiple sections or elements in various embodiments previously disclosed; and fina ly proximal cap 18 for providing cover for the extrusion conduit tip 17, in furtbe=:-elaboration, a transverse cross sectional view H of device assembly 14 is illustrated in Fla 6. Presented is the assembly and various parts and features comprised of first a manually rotatable element 15, having on its exterior a textured surface 24 for improving user interaction; an advanceable screw 20, wherein the open interior region 25 of element 15 depicts the orientation where clearance in provided for the screw threaded region to pass through its center; a helical spring 23 in contact with a retaining feature of element 15 and a distal face of the multi-labod pin 22 for providing pressure of protruding lobes 26 into the recessed lobes 27 of the cartridge / mechanism housing IS;
a threaded hole 28 of the annular feature of housing 16 for engaging with the threaded section of plunger shaft 2.0; an exchangeable cartridge casino 19 retained in housing 16 by a retaining feature 29 of housing 18; a cartridge plug 30, a functional substance 12, an extrusion conduit tip 17 having a fluid-flow conduit 32; and finally a proximal cap .18.
Providing further detail, depicted in FIG. 7 is a partial detail view 33 of sectional view li at a 90 degree axial rotation of cross sectional view IL Figure 7 illustrates further detail of device assembly 14 and in particular shows the association of the two flattened sides of the advancing screws with the internal features of manually rotatable element 15, illustrating how the internal features are able to act upon the screw and rotate it, 100.121)1 Figure 7 illustrates further detail of the advancing member wherein the assembly comprises a manually rotatable element 15; a grip texture 24, an interior cavity 25 for permitting the advancement of the screw plunger 20, a spring retaining feature 35 of element 15; a spring slot 34 of eiement 15; an annular extrusion 38 of element 15 fixed into a slot 2,9 in the inner diameter of the bore of the mechanism housing 16, which serves to retain the element 15 from dislodging from housing 16, but also permit its axial rotation; a sliding slot 36 of element 15 for mating with and permitting a space for multi-lobed pin 22 to slide vertically during its rotation with element 15; a bore 37 in mut-lobed pin 22 for free p.assage of the advancing plunnei-20; a depressed lobe section 27 of an annular feature of housing- 16 for raction with protruding lobes 26 of mit-lobed pin 22; a threaded hole in the center of the annular feature of housing IS: and finally an open chamber of housing 16 for free rotation of advancing plunger 20. As further elaboration on the depressed lobe features of the annular section of housing 16, FIG, 8 is a top view of housing 16 illustrating tour depressed lobes 27 and threaded hole Furthermote, FIG. 9 is an orthogonal side view of multi-lobed pin 22, showing further detail of the pin wherein the pin includes four protruding lobe sections 26: a center through-hole 37, a square shaped section 41 -for mating with element 15 depicted in Figures 4-7 to transfer rotational motion to the pin;
and a short annular section for alignment with the axially oriented helical spring 23 depicted in Figures 5-7, t00124 As an additional embodiment of the present invention utilizing an advanceable stop block advanceable mechanism, FIG. 10 is a schematic view of device 43, comprised of a cartridge housing 46; en advanceabie stop housing 45 having a textured grip surface 47 to improve a user's ability to rotate the body a distal end cover for providing stop block surface for depressible piston rod distal end 44; a radial)/
printed graduated scale 48 on the stop block housing 45 that coordinates with the graduated scale printed on the cartriOde housing 49: and finally a proximal end cap 47 for providing cover for an extrusion conduit tip. Furthermore, in a similar but alternative embodiment, FIG, 11 depicts an embodiment 4$ having a slot 50 extending an axial length of the cartridge housing. Turning to FIG, 12, further detail is depicted in a .transverse cross sectional view III of device $3 derived from FIG. 10 noting major interior features and elements. Continuing further details of device 43 in FIG. 12, the assemb y comprises first a cartridge housing 46, partially containing an exchangeable cartridge casing f:i6 containing a functional substance 12 and a plug 55;
Connected to housing 46 at its proximal end is an extrusion conduit tip 60 with a fluid-flow conduit channel 61 and open end 62 abutted to the interior surface of proximal cap 47 while also partially containing the proximal end of exchangeable cartridge casing 56 and functional substance 12 and being threaded with threads of its own 57 into the threaded end 58 of housing 46; an advanceabie stop housing 45 threaded on its interior to housing 46 with threads 63; a distal stop block 52 installed in &Nameable stop housing 45; and finally a depressible piston rod 43 with a distal end 44 aligned into channels provided by stop block 52 and piston retainer 54.
ivanal Turning to FiG. 13, a detail section 64 of HG. 12 is illustralf..4d to finer detaiis of device 43. FIG, 13 illustrates furth:,.)r detail of 43 inciudino first a cartridge housing 46 containing an exchangeable cartridge with casing 56 abutted against the proximal face of piston retainer 54, and also containing functional substance 12, and plug 55; an advanceabie stop housing 45 having threads 63 meshed with threads 65 of housing 46 and having an annular slot 69 cut into a slot proximal of the threads 65 containing an o-ring for providing a moderate resistance to the helical rotation of the adva.nceable stop housing 45 as the o-ring transverses the exterior surface of housing. 46; a piston retainer 54 having interior slot 67 retaining an o-ring 66 for providing a moderate resistance to the sliding motion of depressible piston rod 58; a piston retainer 54 having an exterior slot 72 retaining a snap ring 71, the snap ring of which is also retained in a slot 70 of housing 46 providing the function of locking piston retainer 54 in place in the housing 46; and finally a slot 74 cut into the proximal and of depressibie piston rod 53 retaining a snap ring 73 for preventing the rod from sliding out of the distal end of the piston retainer 54. As further detail, an exploded view of device 43 is provided in FIG.
14 illustnsti.ng the details f deAce 43 discussed herein in an =expioded view.
100i243 in yet an additional embodiment of the present invention comprising Cl electronically operated advancing member, FIG, 15 is an proximal side view illustrating a device 75 comprised of a housing 76, a proximal cap 77, a button 80, a button 79, and an electronic display 78õAs an alternative but similar embodiment, FIG. 16 is a proximal side view of device 75" having a cartridge viewing slot 61. FIG. 17 is a transverse cross sectional view IV of device 75 depicting further detail of device 75, which comprises first a device housing 76, which houses both a cartridge and an advancing member; a proximal cap 77 and a distal cap 81, both removably retained; a extrusion conduit tip 90 having a fluid-flow conduit 9'l and open end 92 abutting the interior face of proximal Cae 77; an exchangeable cartridge casing 89 containing a functional substance 12 and plug 88; an --civerioeable screw plunger 82 inside a screw housing section 83 of device housing 76; and a user interface assembiy comprising a button 80, a button 79, and an electronic display 78 in electrical communication with an electronic control circuit 85, which is also in electrical communication with electric motor 86 via an extension 104 (depicted in Figures 18 and 19) and batten,/ 84 via an extension 103 (depicted in FIG, 19). in various embodiments, electrical current flow may be achieved by an electrical element establishing contact with one lead of the battery by a connection, such as In and otherwise eetablish a circuit by establishing contact with the device housing, which would also be in electrical communication with the other lead of the batter/.
Also, in this and other embodiments, the battery may be exchangeable by removing a cover, such as cover 81, or may be rechargeable and be charged through electrical leads externally accessible on the housing or an element associated with it.
E,00126,1 Furthermore a sectional detail view 93 depicted in Ha 18 and an exploded view of device 75 depicted in Fla 19 illustrates greater detail of the advancing member, which comprises those elements noted in FIG. 17 in addition to an electrical communication port 104 extending from the electrical control circuit 85 That serves to connect the electrical control circuit 65 to the user interface features 80, 79, and 78; an electrical communication port 97 extending from electrical control circuit 85 through a passage port 105 (depicted in FIG. 19) in gear retainer unit 98 to electrical motor 86 retained in housing slot 101 and having rotational force transfer shaft 100 connected to drive gear 99; a gear retainer unit 98 retaining idler gear 96, which is meshed with drive gear 99 and meshed with actuator gear 95; a actuator gear 95 having a rectangular void section 102 at its axial center (depicted in FIG. 19) for providing a contact surface with the advancement screw 82 having a two fiat transverse surfaces and tow -partially threaded radial faces for meshing with a threaded hole 87 of housing 76.
F.i0126,1 in yet another embodiment of the present invention, a pneumatic advancing member may be employed in the present invention and is illustrated in F10. 20 comprising a device 105 with a device housing 107, a manual valve adjustment knob 110, a cartridge viewing slot 108, and a proximal cab 109. Furthermore, Fla 21 depicts a transverse cross sectional view V of device 105 illustrating major interior components, including a device housing 107, containing an exchangeable cartridge comprised of casino 106, functional substance 12, and plug 114; an extrusion conduit tip 116 with threaded section 115 for mating with device housing 107, having a fluid-flow channel 118 with a p.roximal open end abutted to an interior surface of removably retained proximal cap 117; a plunger rod 113; a pneumatic cylinder 112; a valve body 110; a compressed gas cylinder 119 removably regained in a housing slot 121, Furthermore, in a sectional detail view 122 depicted in Fla 2.2, further detail of the advancing member is illustrated including features previously disclosed in Figures 20 and 21 in addition to more specific features, including a pneumatic cylinder piston 124 associated with plunger rod 113; a needle conduit .130 for establishing fluid communication of pressurized gas of pressure tank 119 with the valve assembly 110; a manually ad.ustable knob associated with the valve assembly to permit a user to adjust the flow and pressure settings of the gas flow into the pneumatic cylinder; a depression 128 in the distal housing cover 111 to provide space for a depres.sibie button 127;
and a gas Pow conduit 126 of extended stem 123 of valve assembly 110 that directs gas flow from the pressure tank 119 to the pneumatic cylinder through a port 126 in the pneumatic cylinder 122 side wall. Furthermore, an exploded vies,,v of device 105 is depicted in FIG.
23 illustrating various features disciosed in Figures 29-22õ In all embodiments, preferably the compressed gas tank would preferably be exchangeable through a door in the housing, whether it be on the side, on a proximai end, or from a distal end of the device housing, (601271 in yet an additional embodiment of the present invention, a device assembly may comprise a cartridge housing capable of housing multiple cartridges.
Figure 24 depicts a distal schematic view of an assembly 131 comprised of a muiti-oartridge housing 139, having also cartridge viewing slots 133.; an array of extrusion conduit tips 132, an array of cartridge housing slots 134, an array of cartridges 135, a channel for receiving an advancing member rotational axle 140, an advancing member 137, and an advanceable plunger rod 139. Furthermore an explodod view of assembly 1:31 is prwided in FIG. 25 comprised of details disclosed in FIG, 24 in addition to a threaded section 141 of extrusion conduits 132 for connection with cartridge housing 139; an advanceable plunger rod 138 associated with a section 143 of the advanceable mechanism 137; a section 142 associated with the rotational axle 140 for controlled placement of the advanceable mechanism, which is also associated with a passage 14$
of multi-cartridge housing 144.
100128) in all embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein, the extrusion conduit to may be comprised ot simply a fluid fiow channel, or may be a cartridge retaining eiement comprised of a,donal features or even be comprised of multiple sections having various functional features as previously disclosed.
00129] Turning to FIG. 26, depicted is transverse sectional view of a SSPCRE

having a SSPCRE body 146, a cartridge receiving ;.-ection 148, a threaded section 147, a fluid flow conduit 151 with a proximal open end 150, and a heater element feature 149 placed in line with the fluid fiow, in such an embodiment the flow of functional substance would pass through or around the element in order to gain heat enemy, Additionally, the heating element would be in electrical communication with an electrical source (not shown) or would be an element capable of retaining a significant portion of neat over a usable period of time. Such an element could be heated by placement in a microwave or heated by direct exposure to a heat source.
[0013.0/ in an alternative embodiment of the SSPCRE 145 of Fla 26, the element may be a unidirectional valve body.
[001311 In an alternative embodiment of the SSPCRE 145 of FIG. 26, the element may be a plerceabie septum from either a proximal or distal end.
[00132/ Turning to FIG, 27, depicted is a transverse sectional view of an additional embodiment 152 of an SSPCRE comprised of a body 153, a cartridge receiving section 157, a threaded section 158, a fluid-flow conduit 154 witn a proximal open end 165, and a unidirectional duck-biil style valve 156 placed in-line with the fluid flow.
in such an embodiment, flow of functional substance would only be permitted to .flow .from a distal E.=net to a proximal end, but not the inverse.
(001331 Tuming to FIG. 28, depicted iga transverse sectional view of an additional embodiment 159 of an SSPCRE comprised of a body 160, a cartridge receiving section 165, a threaded section .163, a fiud-fiow conduit 161 with a proxima1open end 162, and a distal facing tapered needle conduit 184 placed in-line with the fluid flow, in such an embodiment, flow of functional substance would only be established once the needle section punctures a film or septum at a cartridge.

r,001W, Turning to F-1(:), 29, depicted is a transverse sectional view of an adt.iitional embodiment 166 of a MSPCRE comprised of two bodies 167 and 171, a cartridge receiving section 175, a threaded section 174 of body 171 for mating with a cartridge housing, a threaded section 173 of body 171 for meshing with a threaded section 172 of body 167, a fluid-Bow conduit 168 with a proximal open end 169, and a unidirectional duck-bill style valve 156 associated with body 171 and placed in-line with the fluid flow.
in such an embodiment, flow of functional substance would only be permitted to flow from a distal end to a proximal end, but not the inverse. Additionally body 167 would be able to be rerno\tabiy retained in body 171 and would permit a user to easily exchange body 167 without exposing the cartridge to atmospheric gases.
WIN Turning to FIG, 30, depicted is a transverse sectional view of an additional embodiment 176 of a MSPCRE. comprised of two Oodles 177 and 180, a cartridge receiving section -184, a threaded section 183 of body 180 for mating with a cartridge housing, a threaded section 182 of body 180 for meshing with a threaded section 181 of body 177, a fluid-flow conduit 178 with a proximal open end .179, and a distal facing tapered needle conduit 185 placed in-line with the fluid flow, in such an embodiment, flow of functional substance would only be established once the needle section punctures a film or septum of a cartridge,. Additionally body '177 would be able -to be removably retained in body 180 and WOUki permit a user to easily exchange body without exposing the cartridge to significant portions of atmospheric gases.
EOM* Turning to FIG. 31, depicted is a transverse sectional view of an embodiment 186 of an exchangeable cartridge comprised of a cartridge casing 189, a functional substance 12, a plunging plug 188, an adhered distal sealant film 187, and an adhered proximal sealant -film 190. Furthermore the films 190 and 187 may be heat sealed films, acihesive adhered flints, adhered elastornerio septa, or other analogous Him' that are fixed to the distant ends of the cartridge casng 189 and would preferably be removable by a user.
k4.10,13.71 Turning to FIG, 32, depicted is a transverse sectional view of an embodiment 191 of an exchangeable cartridge comprised of a cartridge casing 193 with an open distal end, a functional substance 12, a plunging plug 192, and a compression inserted proximal end-plug 194. In such an embodiment the end-plug 194 may be removable prior to use of the cartridge or may be pierced by a septum to establish fluid communication with fiinctional substance 12, In such an embodiment, preferably the plunger plug 192 wouid establish a seal with the casino inner diameter bore sufficient to prevent atmospheric gas influx, P01383 Turning to FIG. 33, depicted is a transverse sectional view of an embodiment 195 of an exchangeable cartridge comprised of a cartridge casing 197, a functional substance 12, an adhered distal sealant film 196, and an adhered proximal sealant film 198. Furthermore the films 19.6 and 198 may be heat sealed films, adhesive adhered films, adhered elastomeric septa, or other analogous fHms that are fixed to the distant ends of the cartridge casing 197 and would preferably be removable by a user, in such an embodiment, the cartridge lacks a plunger plug, which would otherwise be installed on a plunger rod associated with an advancing member, 11101351 Turning to FIG. 34, depicted is a transverse sectional view of an embodiment 199 of an exchanaeable cartridge comprised of a cartridge casing 1201, a functional substance 12, compression inserted distal end-plug 200, and a compression inserted proximal end-plug 202, in such an embodiment the end-plugs 200 and 202 may be.

removable prior to use. of the cartridge or may be pierced by a septum to establish fluid communication with functional substance 12.
001401 Turning to FIG. 34, depie.)ted is a transverse sectional view of an embodiment -les of an exchangeable cartridge comprised of a cartridge casing 201, a functional substance12: compression inserted distal end-plug 200, and a. compression inserted proximal end-plug 202. In such an embodiment the end-plugs 200 and 202 may be removable prior to use of the cartridge of may be pierced by a septum to establish fluid communication with functional substance 12..
(00141): 'Turning to Fla 35, depicted is a transverse sectional view of an embodiment 203 of an exchangeable cartridge comprised of a catIridge casing 205, a functional substance 12, compression inserted proximal end-plug 205, and a plunger plug having an advam.s.ino rod associated with if that may be inserted into an advancing member. In such an c.,-mbodirnent the end-plug 209 may be removable prior to USE': of the cartridge or may be pierced by a septum to establish fluid communication with functional substance 12, In an alternative embodiment (not depicted) a similar arrangement could be envisaged where an adhered film would take place of end-plug 206.
[00142,1 Turnind to FIG. 36, depicted is a schematic side view of an embodiment 207 of an e;<changeable cartridge comprised of a cartridge 208 having a film 209 with a pu tab adhered to the proximal end of the cartridge casing. in such an embodiment, the pull tab would make it easier for a user to manually remove the film. In all previous embodiments disclosed, wherein a film sea.i is incorporated, those films may also alternatively include a pull tab as disclosed herein, 1001431 Turning to FIG. $7, depicted is a schematic side view of an embodiment of an exchangeable cartridge comprised of a cartridge casing 212 having a slot passing down its transverse length, which in various embodiments may be incorporated into cartridges to provide them with a key slot for fitting into specific cartridge housing having a matching Icey. Alternatively, the key slot here depicted may alternatively be a protruding key that would serve the same function, but simply be protruding rather than recessed.
NOVA Turning to FIG, 38 a multi-device assembly 213 is presented wherein a connection element 214 connects two devices of the present invention 43 to an identical device 43. Alternatively, two non-identical devices of the present invention may be connected together in a similar fashion.
MO1451 Turning to FIG. 311), a figure is presented in order to illustrate an exemplary process of action that the present invention would undergo during us% a device, 43 is presented wherein arrows representing physical force at its distal end is transferred down to a cartridge and consequently the force is exerted on the functional substance 12, forcing it to be extruded through the extruding conduit tip and deposited exterior to the device (noted as 12') on a physical surface 215.
P01461 Ming to FIG. 40, depicted is detail of a transverse cross sectional view of a cartridge housing 217 and ex1ruding conduit tip 219 assembly wherein a heating band 216 is depicted as a heating band surrounding the cartridge housing 217 functioning to heat the functional substance 12. iii such an embodiment, the heating band may accept electrical communication and power from an external source or may receive electrical communication and power from an onboard element. in alternative embodiments, the heater band 216 may be integral to housing 217 or may be manually removable, in an alternative embodiment, the heater band may provide heat through a chemical process or be first heated by an externa.i source and provide a quantity of heat to the interior compxprients for time thereafter.
p..101471 Turning to MG. 41, depicted is a transverse cross sectional view of an embodiment of an exohangeable cartridge casino having a main casing section 220, a tapered casing section 221, and an open end 222. in such. an embodiment, the cartridge itself may contain a functional substance and in addition provide a reduced section for directly extruding the functional substance without necessitating an additional extrusion conduit tip.
[001481 Turning to AG. 42, depicted is a transverse cross section-at view of an embodiment of a cartridge 223 having an integral cartridge retaining element 225, which is depicted with threads; a cartridge casing 224; an integral tapered extrusion conduit tip section 226 and an extrusion conduit flow channel 227.
1,011491 Turning to FiG. 43, depicted is a proximal end perspective view of an embodiment of a cartridge 228, composed of a cadridge. casing 229, a resistive cross-slit valve 230 fixed to the proximal end of the cartridge casing having slits 231.
1061501, While the invention has boon described with respect to certain embodiments, as wilt be appreciated by those skilled in the art, it is to be understood that the invention is capable of numerous changes, modifications and rearrangements, and such changes: modifications and rearrangements are intended to be covered by the following claims.

Claims (10)

Claims:

1. A device for dispensing a metered amount of a functional substance, the device comprising:
a cartridge housing having a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal bore, the cartridge housing configured to house an exchangeable cartridge including a cartridge plug and a functional substance;
an extruding conduit tip at the proximal end of the cartridge housing, the top comprising a fluid flow conduit; and an advancing member configured to fit into the internal bore and configured to move axially through the bore; and wherein, when the advancing member moves towards the proximal end of the housing, it forces a metered amount of the functional substance through the extruding conduit tip; and further comprising a multi-lobed pin and a coil spring configured to provide pressure against the multi-lobed pin; and wherein a manual manipulation member comprises manually rotatable elements configured to advance a plunger through internal bore when rotated; and wherein the cartridge comprises a functional substance, a plunger plug, and a fluid control valve, being at least one of one way and bidirectional, along with configured to open in response to a pressure inside the cartridge.

2. A device for dispensing a metered amount of a functional substance, the device comprising:
a cartridge housing having a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal bore, the cartridge housing configured to house an exchangeable cartridge including a cartridge plug and a functional substance;
an extruding conduit tip at the proximal end of the cartridge housing, the top comprising a fluid flow conduit; and an advancing member configured to fit into the internal bore and configured to move axially through the bore; and wherein, when the advancing member moves towards the proximal end of the housing, it forces a metered amount.of the functional substance through the extruding conduit tip; and further comprising a multi-lobed pin and a coil spring configured to provide pressure against the multi-lobed pin; and wherein a manual manipulation member comprises manually rotatable elements configured to advance a plunger through internal bore when rotated; and wherein the cartridge comprises a functional substance, a plunger plug, and a fluid control valve, being at least one of one way and bidirectional, along with configured to open in response to a pressure inside the cartridge;
further comprising a cartridge plug coupled to the plunger, the plug configured to establish a seal with the internal diameter of the internal bore and to push the functional substance through a fluid control valve when the plunger is advanced.

3. The device of claim 4, wherein the advancing member is configured to be controlled electronically;
wherein the advancing member can be controlled by a remote operator; and, wherein the device is configured to deliver a metered amount of one or more functional substances, the metered amount being predetermined by the remote operator.

4. The device of claim 4, wherein the advancing member is controlled by pressure provided by a pneumatic system, and further comprising an electronic heating element.

5. A method of dispensing a metered amount of a functional substance, the method comprising:
providing a device for dispensing a metered amount of a functional substance, the device comprising;

at least a cartridge housing comprising an internal bore; an advancing member;
and an advanceable stop; and inserting at least one or two exchangeable cartridge containing a functional substance into the device;
moving the advancing member a measured distance through the internal bore, thereby forcing a metered amount of functional substance out of the device.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the plunger is advanced manually.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the plunger is advanced electronically.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the plunger is advanced by pressure provided by a pneumatic system.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein measured distance is defined by a visible graduated scale.

10. The method of claim 11, further comprising adjusting the advanceable stop to a position relative to the advancing member wherein the advanceable stop limits the range of movement of the advancing member, thereby limiting the amount of functional substance expelled from the device.