CA3185820A1

CA3185820A1 - On-demand agent dispensing devices and related methods

Info

Publication number: CA3185820A1
Application number: CA3185820A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Danielle Evin Gerber; Rock Positano; Robert White
Original assignee: Roxilla LLC
Current assignee: Roxilla LLC
Priority date: 2020-06-05
Filing date: 2021-06-07
Publication date: 2021-12-09
Also published as: WO2021248127A1

Abstract

On-demand disinfectant dispensing devices and related disinfecting methods are disclosed. The devices include an attachment portion and a disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion. The attachment portion comprises an attachment surface that is configured to removably affix the device to an object. The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion is coupled to and overlies at least a portion of the attachment portion. The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion contains a volume of a disinfectant, for example, and is configured to control a dispense rate of the volume of disinfectant to a user at an exposed outer dispenser surface portion when the user touches the outer dispenser surface portion. The devices may be configured to removably attach to a user such that the devices are wearable. The wearable device may be configured for use on an active portion of contact of the user or on a passive portion of the user.

Description

ON-DEMAND AGENT DISPENSING DEVICES AND
RELATED METHODS
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[001] This application perfects and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
63/035,006, filed June 5, 2021, and entitled On-Demand Agent Dispensing Devices and Related Methods, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[002] The present disclosure relates generally to on-demand agent (e.g., disinfectant) dispensing devices and related methods. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to agent (e.g., disinfectant) dispensing devices that can be removably affixed to a user or surface that provide easy on-demand access to an agent over an extended period of time, and related methods.
BACKGROUND

[003] There is substantial evidence that pathogens (i.e., disease-causing microorganisms, such as various viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites) can be transmitted from a first person to a second person via the first person physically touching the second person (e.g., via a handshake, hug, kiss, etc.) or the first person physically touching or otherwise infecting (e.g., via one or more respiratory function, a pet, etc.) a communal object (e.g., a surface, object, knob, button, handle, hand rail, key, screen, money, card, etc.) that is subsequently physically touched by the second person. Most commonly, pathogens are passed between people via physical touch through their hands - a pathogen becomes present one the first person's hand, and is transferred to the second person's hand via physical contact with the first person's hand or with an object that that first person's hand previously contacted or that the first person infected via one or more respiratory functions (e.g., breathing, coughing, sneezing, talking, etc.) or by a third party (e.g., via another person, a pet, etc.). Thus, not only can a person become infected by a pathogen by touching their eyes, nose or mouth with their hand (or with an object that that they touched with their hand), they can pass a pathogen to one or more other people by touching a communal object.

[004] Because many infectious pathogens (such as viruses, for example the common cold) are contracted and spread to others via physical touching primarily by the hands, conventional medical wisdom teaches that the best way to prevent contraction and transmission of most pathogens (and resulting infections) is by thoroughly and frequently disinfecting/sanitizing/sterilizing one's hands throughout the day by washing their hands with soap and water. In addition to and/or in place of washing one's hands, a topical disinfecting/sanitizing/sterilizing agent such as, for example, a denatured alcohol, an anti-bacterial hand gel, or an anti-bacterial hand lotion to further protect the hands may be utilized.

[005] Although these measures will help to control the spread of many pathogens residing on the skin, they are ineffective if not performed routinely and methodically.
Unfortunately, many individuals do not have immediate access to facilities to adequately wash their hands with soap and water, and/or to a topical disinfectant. For example, many liquid and/or gel topical disinfectants are packaged in a bottle configured with a spray or squeeze dispenser. These bottled disinfectants requires the bottle to be carried by an individual, taken out when disinfectant is needed, and manually opened and applied to their hand(s). As such, they are often not utilized as often as they should and/or would be compared to if they were easily available on-demand. As another example, sanitizing wipes or towelettes that contained a liquid topical disinfectant are sometimes utilized, but include the same disadvantages as bottled disinfectants.

[006] Hand sanitizer stations which contain a relatively larger reservoir of a topical disinfectant are also commonplace. Such stations are typically only found in high population spaces, areas where pathogens are more commonly found and/or areas where vulnerable people are located.
Because of their scarcity, sanitizer stations thereby fail to protect users from the constant barrage of surfaces and 3rd parties individuals comes into contact with on a daily basis.

[007] It is thereby an object of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices and related disinfecting methods provided herein to addresses one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art. The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices and related disinfecting methods disclosed herein solve the above noted deficiencies of current disinfectant dispensing devices and related disinfecting methods by, inter alia, providing a removably affixable device that provides on-demand access to a disinfectant to a user over an extended period of time, and related disinfecting methods (such as to disinfect an area, surface or object).
SUMMARY

[008] On-demand disinfectant dispensing devices (and disinfecting methods utilizing such devices) that can be removably affixed to a user or surface that provide easy, available access to a disinfectant over an extended period of time are disclosed herein. The present disclosure provides such devices and methods for disinfection of a user's body (e g , the skin of a user's hand), as well as potential transfer of the disinfectant to, and thereby disinfection of, the skin of at least one other person and/or a surface of an inanimate object via touching thereof by the user after use of the disinfectant. The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices and methods are thereby able to provide an on-demand disinfectant to one or more people and/or surfaces.

[009] The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices provide a simple, cost effective way to reduce the spread of pathogens/infectious disease. The devices are self-contained, are void of bottles that need to be carried and opened, include a no spill solution, and do not necessitate pouring or spraying for use. In some embodiments, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices may be configured to be removably affixed to a user, such as to the user's skin or the user's clothing (or any other inanimate object carried or worn by the user). In such a configuration, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device provides a no fuss anti-bacterial action wearable. In some embodiments, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearables may be configured to be removably affixed to an active point/portion of contact of the user that would benefit from being disinfected, such as on the inside of a user's hand (e.g., on the palm and/or fingers), to target one or more locations on one's body for an added level of protection and peace of mind. In this way, the active wearable on-demand disinfectant dispensing device can be applied over the active portion of the user and replace the portion with a disinfectant dispensing surface and thereby a disinfected/sterile surface. In some other embodiments, an on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearable may be configured to be removably affixed to a passive portion of the user's skin (or an object worn/carried by the user) (or on an inanimate object remote from the user) that is spaced from the point/portion of contact of the user, to allow for selective application of the disinfectant on the portion of contact of the user by passing the portion of contact of the user on/over the device. For example, a passive on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearable may be removably affixed to the back of a user's hand (or a user's forearm) or on clothing worn by the user, and the user may wipe their finger(s)/hand on/over the device to apply the disinfectant thereto (and thereby disinfect their finger(s)/hand). In such a passive disinfecting embodiment, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearable device provides quick and discrete on-demand access to a disinfectant where swiping/contacting the device disinfects a person's point/portion of contact (e.g., their hand(s) or other skin surface).

[010] The on-demand disinfectant dispensing device embodiments can thereby be applied to an active or passive surface portion of a user (or an object) to disinfect it, and, potentially, passes it on to a third party that subsequently touches the surface portion (i.e., pays it forward). In this way, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices can provide a level of disinfecting of safety to the user, with the additional benefit of protecting others that may touch a common surface/object.

Communal touchpoints can thus be sanitized and provide an integral part to the health and wellbeing of a community as a whole.
10111 The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices of the present disclosure are configured to provide a long lasting disinfectant supply. The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices include an attachment layer or portion that is configured to removably attach to a user or an inanimate object. The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices also include at least one reservoir and metered/controlled release or dispensing layer or portion that overlies at least a portion of the attachment layer. The at least one reservoir and metered/controlled release or dispensing layer is configured to contain a volume of a liquid or gel topical disinfectant and control the speed and duration of the release of the disinfectant at/to an outer surface thereof (and thereby to a user). In some embodiments the at least one reservoir and metered/controlled release or dispensing layer is a single layer or portion, and in other embodiments it comprises a reservoir layer or portion and a and metered/controlled release or dispensing layer or portion that is separate and distinct from the reservoir layer or portion.
[012] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides s dispensing device comprising: an attachment portion comprising an attachment surface that is configured to removably affix the device to an object; and a reservoir and dispenser portion coupled to and overlying at least a portion of the attachment portion, the reservoir and dispenser portion containing a volume of an agent and configured to control a dispense rate of the agent to a user at an exposed outer dispenser surface portion thereof when the user touches the outer surface portion.
[013] In some embodiments, the attachment portion is configured to directly removably attach to skin of a user. In some embodiments, the attachment portion comprises a biocompatible adhesive layer that forms the attachment surface. In some embodiments, the biocompatible adhesive comprises a biocompatible pressure sensitive adhesive. In some embodiments, the attachment portion further comprises a removably protective film extending over the biocompatible adhesive.
[014] In some embodiments, the attachment portion is configured to removably attach to an inanimate object. In some embodiments, the attachment portion comprises an adhesive and/or at least mechanical connector configured to removably attach to the inanimate object and that forms the attachment surface.
[015] In some embodiments, the attachment portion comprises a carrier layer. In some embodiments, the carrier layer comprises at least one layer comprises of a fabric, plastic or latex, and wherein the attachment surface is formed by an attachment mechanism coupled to the carrier layer. In some embodiments, the carrier layer comprises a water absorbable and/or air permeable fabric layer. In some embodiments, the fabric layer comprises a woven nylon layer, a woven polyester layer, Gore-Tex layer or a combination thereof [016] In some embodiments, the attachment portion and the reservoir and dispenser portion are flexible. In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a single layer. In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises at least one reservoir layer or portion that contains the volume of the agent and at least one dispenser layer or portion that forms the outer dispenser surface portion, the at least one reservoir layer or portion and the at least one dispenser layer or portion being separate and distinct from each other. In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a waterproof layer.
[017] In some embodiments, the volume of the agent is absorbed into the reservoir and dispenser portion. In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion defines at least one inner cavity that contains the volume of the agent. In some embodiments, the volume of the agent comprises a plurality of distinct agent portions distributed within the reservoir and dispenser portion. In some embodiments, the plurality of distinct agent portions comprise capsulated agent portions.
[018] In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises one or more layers of a fabric, Gore-Tex, gauze, absorbing gel, plastic, paper, foam or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises one or more fabric layers formed of cotton, nylon, polyester or a combination thereof.
[019] In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a plurality of selectively removably attached stacked layers each with an upper surface that forms the outer dispenser surface portion when positioned as the uppermost layer. In some embodiments, a pore/perforation size, pore/perforation arrangement, density, thickness, and capillary action of the reservoir and dispenser portion is configured to control the amount of the agent that travels through the reservoir and dispenser portion and to outer dispenser surface portion.
[020] In some embodiments, the agent is a liquid and/or gel. In some embodiments, the agent is solid.
[021] In some embodiments, the agent is a disinfectant. In some embodiments, the disinfectant is a biocompatible disinfectant. In some embodiments, the disinfectant comprises ethyl, isopropyl, ethanol (ethyl alcohol), triclosan, triclocarban, benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride or a combination thereof In some embodiments, the disinfectant comprises ethanol (ethyl alcohol). In some embodiments, the agent comprises an essential oil. In some embodiments, the agent comprises a medicant or vitamin. In some embodiments, the agent comprises an insecticide. In some embodiments, the agent comprises a fragrance. In some embodiments, the agent comprises a food product. In some embodiments, the agent comprises a cleaning product.
In some embodiments, the agent comprises a paint.
[022] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a cover layer overlying the outer dispenser surface portion and removably attached thereto. In some embodiments, an outer dispenser surface portion of the cover layer comprises a visual and/or tactile indication and/or is configured to display a visual indication. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a backer layer overlying the attachment portion and removably attached thereto.
In some embodiments, the outer dispenser surface portion of the cover layer comprises at least one of a visible light reflective material or an illumination device thereon.
[023] In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion is configured to change color between at least two differing total volumes of the agent contained therein.
In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a plurality of removably coupled overlying reservoir and dispenser layers that each contain a volume of the agent, and wherein the upper most reservoir and dispenser layer forms the outer dispenser surface portion. In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises at least one reservoir area and at least one dispensing area that is spaced from the at least one reservoir area, and wherein the at least one dispensing area forms the outer dispenser surface portion. In some embodiments, the at least one reservoir area comprises a compressible internal cavity that contains the volume of the agent and at least one channel that defines a pathway for the flow of the agent from the internal cavity to the at least one dispensing area.
[024] In some embodiments, the device is elongated and rolled upon itself into a spiral form.
[025] In some embodiments, the device comprises a pocket with an internal cavity, and the reservoir and dispenser portion is positioned within the internal cavity of the pocket. In some embodiments, the attachment portion comprises a backside of the internal cavity of the pocket.
[026] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of disinfecting a surface. The method comprises obtaining any of the devices discussed, wherein the agent of the device comprises a topical disinfectant; removably affixing the attachment portion of the device to an object; and transferring a portion of the disinfectant from the device via the outer dispenser surface portion to the surface.
[027] In some embodiments, the transferring the portion of the disinfectant from the device to the surface comprises engaging the outer dispenser surface portion and the surface. In some embodiments, the transferring the portion of the disinfectant from the device to the surface comprises manually touching the outer dispenser surface portion to dispense the portion of the disinfectant, and manually transferring at least some of the dispensed portion of the disinfectant to the surface.
[028] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a disinfectant construct comprising a flexible and porous polymer member comprising internal voids in communication with an outer dispenser surface portion, and a disinfectant contained within the internal voids of the member.
[029] In some embodiments, the disinfectant is naturally drawn to the outer dispenser surface portion from within the internal voids due to capillary action. In some embodiments, the polymer member comprises silicone, polyurethane, hydrogel or a combination thereof In some embodiments, the disinfectant is a liquid and/or gel biocompatible disinfectant.
[030] In some embodiments, the member is thin and elongated. In some embodiments, the member is arranged in a rolled arrangement.
[031] In some embodiments, the construct further comprises an adhesive or attachment mechanism coupled to a backside of the member. In some embodiments, the adhesive or attachment mechanism is configured affix the member to an outer surface of an object.
[032] It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein and may be used to achieve the benefits and advantages described herein.
[033] These and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of the various aspects of the disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[034] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that at least some of the drawings are not necessarily to scale (but at least some of the drawings may be drawn to scale). In certain figures, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated in the figures. Like reference numerals are utilized throughout the figures to represent like aspects illustrated in the drawings, wherein:

[035] FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of an on-demand disinfectant dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[036] FIG. 2 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[037] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device of FIG. 1 removably affixed to an inanimate object worn by a user according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[038] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device of FIG. 1 removably affixed to a passive skin area of a user according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[039] FIGS. 5A-5M illustrates varying views of an on-demand disinfectant dispensing device according to FIG. 1 removably affixed to active skin areas of a user according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[040] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate perspective top and bottom views, respectively, a side cross-sectional view of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device of FIG. 1 including seal and backing layers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[041] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device of FIG. 1 as the volume or availability of disinfectant therein lowers over a period of time according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[042] FIG. 8 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an on-demand disinfectant dispensing device with a disinfectant release top layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[043] FIG. 9 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an on-demand disinfectant dispensing device with embedded discrete disinfectant volumes according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[044] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device of FIG. 9 affixed to a user's hand and the user causing some of the embedded discrete disinfectant volumes to be dispensed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[045] FIG. 11 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an on-demand disinfectant dispensing device with a plurality of removable disinfectant reservoir and dispensing layers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[046] FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of an on-demand disinfectant dispensing device with a disinfectant reservoir area and at least one disinfectant dispensing area according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[047] FIG. 13 illustrates a top view of an on-demand disinfectant dispensing device with a disinfectant reservoir and pump area, at least one disinfectant dispensing area and at least one defined flowpath for the flow of disinfectant from the disinfectant reservoir and pump area to the at least one disinfectant dispensing area according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[048] FIG. 14 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device of FIG. 13 extending through a defined disinfectant flowpath according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[049] FIG. 15 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device of FIG. 13 offset from the at least one defined disinfectant flowpath according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[050] FIG. 16 illustrates a top view of an on-demand disinfectant dispensing device configured to be applied to a user's hand according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[051] FIG. 17 illustrates a top view of another on-demand disinfectant dispensing device configured to be applied to a user's hand according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[052] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of an elongated on-demand delivery device configured to in a roll form according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[053] FIG. 19 illustrates an elevational perspective view of an on-demand delivery device configured in a pocket form according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[054] FIG. 20 illustrates a pocket-form on-demand delivery device incorporated into a piece of clothing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[055] FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the on-demand delivery device of FIG. 20 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[056] FIG. 22 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another pocket-form on-demand delivery device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[057] Aspects of the present disclosure and certain examples, features, advantages, and details thereof, are explained more fully below with reference to the non-limiting examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Descriptions of well-known components, aspects, materials, chemicals, fabrication mechanisms, processing techniques, uses, etc., are omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the relevant details. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating aspects of the disclosure, are given by way of illustration only, and are not by way of limitation. Various substitutions, modifications, additions, and/or arrangements, within the spirit and/or scope of the underlying inventive concepts will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.
[058] Approximating language, as used herein throughout disclosure, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as "terms "substantially", "approximately", "about", "relatively," or other such similar terms is not limited to the precise value specified, and is used to describe and account for small fluctuations, such as due to variations in processing, from a reference or parameter. Such small fluctuations include a zero fluctuation from the reference or parameter as well. For example, these terms can refer to less than or equal to 5%, such as less than or equal to 2%, such as less than or equal to 1%, such as less than or equal to 0.5%, such as less than or equal to 0.2%, such as less than or equal to 0.1%, such as less than or equal to 0.05%. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value.
[059] Terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, references to "one example" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional examples that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, the terms "comprising" (and any form of "comprise," such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of "have," such as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of "include," such as "includes" and "including"), and "contain" (and any form of "contain,"
such as "contains" and "containing") are used as open-ended linking verbs. As a result, any examples that "comprises," "has," "includes" or "contains" one or more step or element possesses such one or more step or element, but is not limited to possessing only such one or more step or element. As used herein, the terms "may" and "may be" indicate a possibility of an occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specified property, characteristic or function;
and/or qualify another verb by expressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibility associated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of "may" and "may be"
indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable, or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while taking into account that in some circumstances the modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, capable or suitable. For example, in some circumstances, an event or capacity can be expected, while in other circumstances the event or capacity cannot occur ¨
this distinction is captured by the terms "may" and "may be."

[060] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the term "entirety"
(and any other form of "entire") means at least a substantial portion, such as at least 95% or at least 99%. The term "entirety" (and any other form of "entire"), as used herein, is thereby not limited to 100%, unless otherwise indicated.
[061] The terms "disinfecting," "sanitizing" and "sterilizing" (and the equivalents thereof) are used synonymously herein to refer to the action of trappings, removing, killing, or inhibiting the growth and/or reproduction of a pathogen (i.e., an infectious disease-causing microorganism, such as various viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites). Similarly, the terms "disinfectant," "sanitizer,"
"sterilizer," "antimicrobial" and "antiseptic" (and the equivalents thereof) are used synonymously herein to refer to a substance that disinfects (i.e., that traps, removes, kills, or inhibits the growth and/or reproduction of a pathogen). The term "topical" is used herein to refer to a disinfectant that disinfects pathogens located on (the outside of) one's skin or the outer/exterior surface of an inanimate object).
[062] The terms "affix," "connect" "contact," "coupled" and/or the like are broadly defined herein to encompass a variety of divergent arrangements and assembly techniques. These arrangements and techniques include, but are not limited to (1) the direct joining of one component and another component with no intervening components therebetween (i.e., the components are in direct physical contact); and (2) the joining of one component and another component with one or more components therebetween, provided that the one component being "affixed to," "connected to," "contacting" or 'coupled to" the other component is somehow in operative communication with the other component (notwithstanding the presence of one or more additional components therebetween). It is to be understood that some components that are in direct physical contact with one another may or may not be in fluid contact with one another.
Moreover, two components that are fluidly/fluidically connected, fluidly/fluidically coupled or in fluid/fluidic communication may or may not be in direct physical contact, and one or more other components may be positioned therebetween.
[063] The present disclosure provides for on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices, and disinfecting methods utilizing such devices, that can be removably affixed to an object (such as a user or a surface of an inanimate object) that provide easy, available access to a supply of a disinfectant over an extended period of time. The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices thereby provide for disinfection of a user's body (e.g., the skin of a user's hand), as well as potential transfer of the disinfectant to, and thereby disinfection of, the skin of at least one other person and/or a surface of an inanimate object via touching thereof by the user after

11 use/application of the disinfectant. The efficient (e.g., one step) on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices and methods are thereby able to efficiently provide an on-demand disinfectant (e.g., via single step, for example) to one or more people and/or surfaces.
[064] The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices provide a simple, cost effective way to reduce the spread of pathogens/infectious disease. The devices are self-contained, are void of bottles that need to be carried and opened, include a no spill solution, and do not necessitate pouring or spraying for use. As noted above, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices may be configured to be removably affixed to a user, such as to the user's skin or the user's clothing (or any other inanimate object carried or worn by the user). In such a configuration, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device provides a no fuss anti-bacterial action wearable device. The on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearable devices may be configured to be removably affixed to an active point/portion of contact of the user that would benefit from being disinfected, such as on the inside of a user's hand (e.g., on the palm and/or fingers), to target one or more locations on one's body for an added level of protection and peace of mind. In this way, the active on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearable device can be applied over the active portion of the user (e.g., a user's elbow, palm, finger, etc.) and replace the portion with a disinfectant dispensing surface ¨
and thereby a disinfected/sterile surface.
[065] In some other embodiments, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearable device may be configured to be removably affixed to a passive portion of the user's skin (or an object worn/carried by the user) (or on an inanimate object remote from the user) that is spaced from the point/portion of contact of the user, to allow for selective application of the disinfectant on the portion of contact of the user by passing the portion of contact of the user on/over the device. For example, a passive on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearable device may be removably affixed to the back of a user's hand or forearm, or on their clothing, and the user may wipe their finger(s)/hand on/over the exposed dispensing surface of the device to apply the disinfectant thereto (and thereby disinfect their finger(s)/hand). In such a passive disinfecting embodiment, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing wearable device provides quick and discrete on-demand access to a disinfectant where swiping/contacting the device disinfects a person's point/portion of contact (e.g., their hand(s) or other skin surface).
[066] The on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices disclosed herein can thereby be applied to an active or passive surface portion of a user (or an object) to disinfect it, and, potentially, pass it on to a third party that subsequently touches the surface portion (i.e., pays it forward). In this way, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices can provide a level of disinfecting of safety to a

12 user, with the additional benefit of protecting others that may touch the user or even a common surface/object. Communal touchpoints can thus be sanitized and provide an integral part to the health and wellbeing of a community as a whole via the disclosed on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices.
[067] As shown in FIGS. 1-6, in some embodiments a disinfectant dispensing device 10 according to the present disclosure includes an attachment portion 12 and a disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 16 [068] The attachment portion 12 may comprise an attachment surface 17 that is configured to affix/couple the device 10 to an object (removably or fixedly) (e.g., a user skin or a surface of an inanimate object, as described above and further below). The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 is coupled to and overlies at least a portion of the attachment portion, as shown in FIGS. 1-6. As also shown in FIGS. 1-6, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 contains a volume of disinfectant 20. The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 is configured to control a dispense rate (i.e., time release) of the volume of topical disinfectant 20 to a user at an exposed outer dispensing surface portion 16 thereof when a user touches the outer dispensing surface portion 16. In some embodiments, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may be refillable.
[069] The device 10 (e.g., the attachment portion 12 and the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14) may be of any size and any shape. In some embodiments, the device may be relatively flat or thin in a thickness direction (e.g., comprise a patch, sheet or like arrangement). In some embodiments, the size and/or shape of the device 10 may correspond to a particular surface/object to which is can be removably coupled to. In this way, the device 10 may be configured to a particular usage (e.g., shaped and sized to removably attach to a particular object or body portion of a user). The device 10 (e.g., the attachment portion 12 and the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14) may be relatively flexible, such as easily manually flexible.
[070] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 6, the attachment portion 12 may define the backside or underside of the device 10, and include a backside attachment surface 17 that is configured to abut or overly another surface when the device 10 is coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the attachment portion 12 may include an adhesive on (or that forms) the attachment surface 17 that is configured to removably couple the device 10 to a surface. In some other embodiments (not shown), the attachment portion 12 may include a mechanical mechanism to removably attach the device to a surface. For example, the attachment portion 12 may include and/or comprise a strap, hook-and-loop (or hook-and-hook) fastener, snap fastener, button, strap, elastic, suction

13 cup/member, zipper, threaded post/aperture, magnet or any other fastener mechanism that is configured to removably couple the device 10 to another surface/object. It is noted that the particular design and configuration can of the attachment portion 12 can take on any form with respect to a particular surface/object sufficient to removable couple the device 10 to the surface/obj ect.
[071] In some embodiments, the attachment portion 12 may include an adhesive on (or that forms) the attachment surface 17 that is configured to removably couple the device 10 to an inanimate object and/or skin of a user. In some such embodiments, the adhesive may comprise a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). In some such embodiments, the attachment portion 12 may be configured to directly removably attach to skin of a user via a biocompatible (and/or medical grade) adhesive, such as a biocompatible PSA, and/or an alcohol resistant adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive of the attachment portion 12 may comprise an acrylic adhesive, an epoxy adhesive, a styrene block co-polymer adhesive or a combination thereof.
In some such embodiments, the adhesive of the attachment portion 12 may comprise an acrylate, such as methacrylates, epoxy diacrylates (i.e., a vinyl resin) or a combination thereof. In some such embodiments, the adhesive of the attachment portion 12 may comprise spirit gum (mastic), matte spirit gum, liquid latex, thickened latex, flexible collodion or a combination thereof In some such embodiments, the adhesive may comprise a biodegradable, natural and/or organic adhesive. In some embodiments, the tack, adhesion, shear strength and breathability of the adhesive may be configured such that the device 10 is biocompatible with respect to a user's skin.
[072] As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in some embodiments, the attachment portion 12 of the device 10 may comprise an adhesive and a removable attachment protective film 26 extending over the attachment surface 17 of the adhesive. The attachment protective film 26 may be configured to cover and protect the adhesive prior to use (or when otherwise not in use). The attachment protective film 26 may thereby be configured to be removable from the adhesive (e.g., peeled off) such that the adhesive remains coupled to the device 10 and is effective in coupling the device 10 to a surface. In some embodiments, the attachment protective film 26 may comprise a plastic/polymer, coated paper, metallic/metalized layer (e.g., a foil layer or aluminized material layer) or a combination thereof. As also shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in some embodiment the protective film 26 may include a tab 25 to aide in manually removing (e.g., peeling) the protective film 26 from the attachment surface 17.
[073] In some embodiments, the attachment portion 12 may include at least one carrier or support layer. The carrier layer may support the attachment mechanism (e.g., an adhesive and/or

14 mechanical fastener) (i.e., the attachment mechanism may be coupled to bottom side of the carrier layer). Further, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may be coupled to and overly (e.g., directly overly) the top side of the carrier layer. In some embodiments, the carrier layer comprises at least one layer of a fabric (woven or non-woven), plastic or latex. For example, the carrier layer may comprise a breathable fabric, such as a woven (or non-woven) nylon, polyester or Gore-Tex layer. The carrier layer may be flexible, and may comprise a water absorbable and/or air permeable fabric layer (particularly in embodiments of the device 10 for use directly on the skin of a user, as described further below).
[074] As also shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 of the device 10 may include a dispenser protective film 24 extending over the dispensing surface portion 16. The dispenser protective film 24 may be configured to cover and protect the dispensing surface portion 16, and thereby the volume of disinfectant 20 contained within the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14, prior to use (or when otherwise not in use). For example, the dispenser protective film 24 may be effective in preventing (or at least substantially inhibiting) evaporation and/or leakage of the disinfectant 20 from the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 via the dispensing surface portion 16. The dispenser protective film 24 may thereby be configured to be removable from the dispensing surface portion 16 (e.g., peeled off) such that the disinfectant 20 is able to be dispensed/flow through the dispensing surface portion 16. In some embodiments, the dispenser protective film 24 may comprise a plastic/polymer or metallic/metalized layer (and potentially an adhesive). Removal of the dispenser protective film 24 may thereby activate the device 10/ disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 for use (e.g., begin or initiate wicking and/or capillary action of the disinfectant 20 and/or evaporation of the disinfectant 20 at the exposed dispensing surface portion 16).
[075] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the cover or protective film 24 may include a visual and/or tactile indication (not shown), or be configured such that a visual and/or tactile indication can be drawn or otherwise formed thereon. For example, the outer surface of the protective film 24 may include a logo, name, trademark or other visual indication that may enhance the aesthetic look and/or feel of the device 10. As another example, the outer surface of the cover or protective film 24 may be configured as a paper, chalkboard or whiteboard type configuration to allow for personalization of the device 10. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the cover or protective film 24 comprises at least one of a visible light reflective material and an illumination device thereon. aAs also shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in some embodiment the protective film 24 may include a tab 25 to aide in manually removing (e.g., peeling) the protective film 24 from the dispensing surface portion 16.
[076] The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may comprise one or more layers and/or more materials. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may comprise a single later comprised of one or more materials. In some other embodiments, as discussed further below, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may comprise one or more disinfectant reservoir layers (or portions) and one or more dispenser layers (or portions) that are separate and distinct from the one or more disinfectant reservoir layers (or portions).
[077] The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 is configured to contain the volume of disinfectant 20. For example, the disinfectant 20 may be absorbed into the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 (e.g., the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may comprise an absorbent pad, layer or portion). As another example, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may form at least one cavity, opening or cell that contains the disinfectant 20. The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 is also configured to dispense the disinfectant 20 at the dispensing surface portion 16 to a user who touches, such as wipes across, the dispensing surface portion 16. At least a portion of the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 thereby automatically controls the speed and duration of the release/flow of the disinfectant at/to the outer dispensing surface portion 16 (and thereby to a user on an on-demand basis).
For example, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may be configured to draw or otherwise provide a portion of the volume of disinfectant 20 at or to the dispensing surface portion 16 such that when a user touches or wipes the dispensing surface portion 16, some of the disinfectant 20 transfers to the user.
[078] In some embodiments, the reservoir and dispensing functions or processes of the reservoir and dispensing functions or processes may be accomplished by a common layer or portion of the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may be accomplished by a common layer or portion of the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14. In some other embodiments, the reservoir and dispensing functions or processes of the reservoir and dispensing functions or processes may be accomplished by a common layer or portion of the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may be accomplished by differing layers or portions of the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14. In some embodiments, the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may comprise at least one layer or portion formed of a (woven or non-woven) cloth or fabric (e.g., a cotton, nylon, polyester or the like layer/portion), Gore-Tex, gauze, absorbing gel (e.g., a hydrogel), flashspun high-density polyethylene (e g, Tyvek), porous/filter paper, plastic film, foam, hydrocolloid, alginate, polysaccharide pastes, granules and/or beads, or a combination thereof For example, is some embodiments the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may comprise one or more layers of cotton, polyester, silicone, polyurethane, polyamide, polyethylene, hydrogel or a combination thereof. In some such embodiments, the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may include a cotton fabric layer or portion, a nylon fabric layer or portion, a polyester fabric layer or portion, a flashspun high-density polyethylene fiber layer or portion, a hydrogel layer or portion, a flexible polyamide net coated with silicone layer or portion, a hydrogel layer or portion formed of hydrophilic polymers, or a combination thereof.
[079] At least the dispensing portion of the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may be configured to control the amount and/or rate at which the disinfectant 20 moves or is drawn therethrough (e.g., via capillary action) and to the dispensing surface portion 16. The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 is thereby configured to meter/control the release or dispensing of the disinfectant 20 to/from/at the dispensing surface portion 16. For example, at least one of the pore/perforation size, pore/perforation size count/number, density, thickness, and capillary action of the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may be configured to control the amount and/or rate at which the disinfectant 20 moves or is drawn to and through the dispensing surface portion. The disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 may be configured such that a particular dosage of the disinfectant 20 flows through the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 and the dispensing surface portion 16 when a certain pressure (e.g., a certain magnitude, area, direction, etc.) is applied thereto by a user such that the particular dosage of the disinfectant 20 is transferred to the user thereby.
[080] In some embodiments, the device 10, including the disinfectant reservoir and dispenser portion 14 (including the dispensing surface portion 16) and the disinfectant 20, is configured such that the disinfectant 20 is available/dispensable at the dispensing surface portion 16 via touching or swiping of the dispensing surface portion 16 by a user for at least 2 hours, at least 3 hours, at least 4 hours, at least 5 hour or at least 6 hours after the dispensing surface portion 16 is initially exposed.
[081] The volume of disinfectant 20 may be any biocompatible disinfectant (i.e., safe and effective for use with humans, such as on human skin), such as any topical disinfectant effective in killing and/or preventing reproduction of disease causing pathogens (such as viruses and bacteria, for example) when the disinfectant 20 and the pathogens physically interact. The disinfectant 20 may be effective on disinfecting a person's skin and in addition to the surface of an inanimate object (such as a surface comprising plastic, metal, glass, paper, carboard, etc.). For example, the disinfectant 20 may comprise an alcohol sanitizer and/or an non-alcohol sanitizer. In some embodiments, the disinfectant 20 comprises ethyl, isopropyl, ethanol (ethyl alcohol), triclosan, triclocarban, benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the disinfectant 20 comprises 1,2-hexanediol, ammonium bicarbonate, ammonium carbonate, benzalkonium chloride, benzalkonium chloride, chlorine dioxide, citric acid, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, ethanol, ethyl, glutaraldehyde, glycolic acid, hydrochloric acid, hypochlorous acid, isopropyl, isopropanol, lactic acid, L-lactic acid, octanoic acid, peroxyacetic acid, peroxyoctanoic acid, phenolic, potassium peroxymonosulfate, quaternary ammonium, silver, silver ion, sodium carbonate, sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate, sodium chloride, sodium chlorite, sodium dichloroisocyanurate, sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate, sodium dichloro-S-triazinetrione, sodium hypochlorite, thymol, triethylene glycol, triclosan, triclocarban, alcohol (e.g., at least 60% by volume), aloe gel, vinegar, an essential oil, aromatherapy compound, or a combination thereof, In some embodiments, the disinfectant 20 may comprise at least one essential oil, such as geranium, lavender, sweet marjoram, neroli, palmarosa, peppermint, petitgrain, rose, tea tree, thyme, linalool oil or a combination thereof In some embodiments, the disinfectant 20 may be in liquid or gel form. In some embodiments, the disinfectant 20 may comprise a solution and/or a suspension, and may include at least solid disinfectants.
[082] It is also specifically disclosed herein that although embodiments of the on-demand dispensing devices (and related methods) of the present disclosure are described with respect to containing and dispensing a disinfectant (i.e., on-demand disinfectant dispensing devices), the devices may equally be employed to dispense any other solid, liquid or gel agent. For example, the devices may contain and be configured to dispense any pleasant or foul odorous and/or tasteful material (e.g., perfume, attractant/dettractant-repellant (e.g., bug or insect repellant, etc.). As another example, the devices may contain and be configured to dispense a skin lotion (e.g., moisturizer, sunscreen, etc.), antiperspirant/deodorant, medication/medicine, lubricant, friction-enhancing material (e.g., a sticky or gritty material), any other biocompatible material, biohazard material or a combination thereof. In some such embodiments, the medication/medicine may be a medicant, a vitamin (vitamin C, B12, etc.) or supplement (e.g., caffeine, nicotine, etc.), a cannabinoid (e.g., cannabidiol (CBD)), delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or a food product (e.g., sugar, candy, etc.). As a further example, the devices may contain and be configured to dispense a paint. As another example, the devices may contain and be configured to dispense a cleaning product. As another example, the devices may contain and be configured to dispense a food product or foodstuff.
[083] As shown in FIG 3, in some embodiments, the attachment portion 12 (and potentially the reservoir and dispenser portion 14) may be configured such that the device 10 is worn by a user 1 on a passive piece of clothing (e.g., hat, shirt, coat, pant, belt, shoe, scarf, glove, sock, etc.) or another inanimate object 2 (sweatband, kinesiology/muscle tape, heat/cool pads, helmet, protective pad/brace/splint/cast, headphones, luggage, personal accessories, luggage, wallet, hand bag/purse, athletic equipment, etc.) that is configured to couple to (i.e., be worn or carried by) the user 1. The device 10 may thereby be removably coupled to a passive portion of the user 1 that is spaced from the point/portion of contact of the user 1 that the user wishes to apply the disinfectant 20 to via touching of the dispensing surface portion 16. As noted above, the attachment portion 12 may include and adhesive or mechanical connection mechanism that is configured to attach to a specific or general surface, such as to the clothing 2 or another inanimate object on/coupled to the user 1 as shown in FIG. 3. In use, the user 1 can thereby removably couple the device 10 to their clothing 2 or another inanimate object on/coupled to the user 1 on a passive portion of the user 1 (such as but not limited to over the user's 1 forearm, upper arm, chest, waist or thigh), and touch or wipe the dispensing surface portion 16 with one or more of their hands when the user 1 desires to disinfect their one or more of their hands (or another body portion or inanimate object touched by the user's 1 one or more hand). When the user 1 desires, the device 10 can be removed from the clothing 2 or another inanimate object on/coupled to the user 1 (preferably without damaging the surface outer surface thereof) [084] As also discussed above and shown in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the attachment portion 12 (and potentially the reservoir and dispenser portion 14) may be configured such that the device 10 is worn by a user 1 directly on a passive portion of their skin 3.
The attachment portion 12 may thereby be configured to be biocompatible with a person's passive skin 3, and the device may be breathable or otherwise resistant to causing the user to sweat beneath the device 12.
For example, the device 10 may be configured to have an "invisible" feel when attached to a user's skin 3. The device 10 may thereby be removably coupled to a passive portion of the skin 3 of the user 1 that is spaced from the active portion or point/portion of contact of the user 1 that the user wishes to apply the disinfectant 20 to via touching of the dispensing surface portion 16. In use, the user 1 can thereby removably couple the device 10 directly to their skin 3 on a passive portion of the user 1 (such as but not limited to over the back of the user's hand, forearm, upper arm or thigh), and touch or wipe the dispensing surface portion 16 with one or more of their hands when the user 1 desires to disinfect their one or more of their hands (or another body portion or inanimate object touched by the user's 1 one or more hand). When the user 1 desires, the device can be removed from the skin 3 of the user 1 (preferably without hurting, irritating or otherwise damaging the skin 3).
[085] As shown in FIGS. 5A-5M, in some embodiments, the attachment portion 12 (and potentially the reservoir and dispenser portion 14) may be configured such that the device 10 is worn by a user 1 directly on their active skin 4 or another area/surface of the user 1 to cover/replace the portion (at least partially) by the dispensing surface portion 16. As noted above, the "active" portion 4 of the user 1 may comprise an area that touches/makes contact with at least one other portion of the user 1, another person or an inanimate communal object that will/could be touched by another person to prevent the transmission/passing of a pathogen from the active skin portion/area 4 of the user 1 to the other portion(s) of the user 1 (e.g., the user's 1 eyes, nose or mouth), directly the another person, or indirectly to another person through the communal inanimate object. The attachment portion 12 may thereby be configured to be biocompatible with a person's active skin area 4, and the device 10 may be breathable or otherwise resistant to causing the user to sweat beneath the device 12. The device 10 may be removably coupled to an active skin portion 4 of the user 1 which the user wishes to apply the disinfectant 20 with. In use, the user 1 can thereby removably couple the device 10 directly to an active skin portion 4 of the user 1 (such as but not limited to over the palm and/or finger(s) of the user 1), and the user 1 can touch or wipe the dispensing surface portion 16 as desired to dispense the disinfectant 20. When the user 1 desires, the device 10 can be removed from the active skin portion/area 4 of the user 1 (preferably without hurting, irritating or otherwise damaging the active skin portion/area 4).
[086] As shown in FIG. 5A, in some exemplary embodiments, the device 10 may be configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to removably couple to and extend over (e.g., cover) the palm and at least a portion of at least one finger 4 of a hand of a user 1. As another example, in some embodiments the device 10 may be configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to removably couple to and extend over (e.g., cover) just a portion of the palm 4 of a hand of a user 1, as shown in FIGS. 5B-5E. In some other exemplary embodiments, the device 10 may be configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to removably couple to and extend over (e.g., cover) at least a portion of an interior side of a finger 4 of a hand of a user 1, as shown in FIGS. 5F-5H. As another example, as shown in FIGS. 5I-5K, in some embodiments the device 10 may be configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to removably couple to and extend over (e.g., cover) just a portion of the forearm 4 of an arm of a user 1. In some other exemplary embodiments, the device 10 may be configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to removably couple to and extend over (e.g., cover) at least a portion of an elbow 4 of an arm of a user 1, as shown in FIGS. 5F-5H.
[087] The device 10 may thus be configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to removably couple to and extend over an area of a user 1 that is likely to contact another individual or a surface that may be contacted by another individual so as to dispense a liquid or gel agent 20, such as but not limited to a disinfectant, thereon/thereto. The device 10 may act as a barrier between the user 1 and the other individual or surface, and also act to carry forward the liquid or gel agent 20 to the other individual or surface.
[088] In yet another embodiment, the device 10, such as at least the attachment portion 12, may be configured to attach to an inanimate object (not shown) that is not worn or carried by a user 1.
For example, the attachment portion 12 may be configured to removably (or fixedly) attach to a handle, knob, switch, arm rest, seat, steering wheel, transmission/shift lever, athletic equipment, medical equipment, office equipment, culinary equipment, military/defense equipment, packaging (e.g., a shipping or product packaging), furniture, pet product, or any other item or surface that is communal (i.e., likely to be touched by more than one person) or that is positioned within/near a communal space area, surface or item.
[089] It is specifically noted that embodiments of the device 10 disclosed herein may be configured to attach/couple (removably or fixedly) to any surface of any object (living or inanimate). Embodiments of the device 10 may be used on any surface to provide on-demand access to the disinfectant 20 contained therein for any purpose (such as to provide to directly provide the disinfectant 20 to a surface/portion or indirectly provide the disinfectant 20 to a surface/portion).
[090] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, the device 10 may be configured such that the appearance of a portion of the device 10, such as the dispensing surface portion 16, changes as the volume of disinfectant 20 within the reservoir and dispenser portion 14. In this way, the device 10 may automatically visually and/or tactically indicate the particular volume of the disinfectant 20 within the reservoir and dispenser portion 14, and thereby available to the user via the dispensing surface portion 16, at any particular time. In this way and as shown in FIG.
7, as a device 10A
containing a first "full" volume of the disinfectant 20A transitions to a device 10B containing a second "medium" volume of the disinfectant 20B, the color of at least a portion of the dispensing surface portion 16 (for example) may change. Similarly, as also shown in FIG.
7, as the device 10B containing the second "medium" volume of the disinfectant 20B transitions to a device 10C
containing a third "low" volume of the disinfectant 20B (or no available disinfectant 20), the color of at least a portion of the dispensing surface portion 16 (for example) may change again. It is noted that the device 10 may be configured to variably change colors as the volume of the disinfectant 20 changes, or may only change colors once when the level of disinfectant 20 is at least substantially depleted and/or the level available to a user is inadequate to disinfect (for example). For example, the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 and/or the disinfectant 20 may be configured to change color with changes in the temperature, pH and/or dryness/wetness (e.g., liquid vs. solid form) thereof. As the volume of the disinfectant 20 within the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 decreases (such as from being dispensed via the dispensing surface portion 16, to a user and/or evaporating (or otherwise changing states), the temperature, pH and/or dryness/wetness (e.g., liquid/solid state) of the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 and/or the disinfectant 20 may change and cause a color change, such as with respect to a material/component/chemical/additive of or within the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 and/or the disinfectant 20. In some embodiment, the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 and/or the disinfectant 20 may be configured to change color with time, independently of the actual volume of the disinfectant 20. For example, the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 and/or the disinfectant 20 may include a pigment, ink dye or the like that degrades or absorbs over time such that the color thereof changes over time. In this way, the color of the device 10 can indicate to a user how long the device 10 has been in use, and thereby an indication of the potential state of the volume of the disinfectant 20 (e.g., the disinfectant 20 may evaporate over time).
[091] As another example, the device 10 may be configured such that the size, shape, surface texture and/or other physical dimension/aspect of the device 10 changes as the volume of the disinfectant 20 within the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 decreases to provide a tactile indication of the level thereof. For example, the dispensing surface portion 16 may include raised bumps or the like that flatten/shorten as the volume of the disinfectant 20 within the reservoir and dispenser portion 14 decreases.
[092] As noted above, the reservoir and dispenser portion of the on-demand dispensing devices of the present disclosure may include one or more layers or portions. For example, as discussed above with respect to the reservoir and dispenser portion 14, the exemplary device 10 may include a dual/integral reservoir and dispenser layer or portion 14 that is configured as a reservoir that contains/holds the volume of the disinfectant 20 and a dispenser that forms the dispensing surface portion 16 and controls the amount of disinfectant 20 that flows/is present at the dispensing surface portion 16 and is transferred to a user when the user contacts/wipes the dispensing surface portion 16.

[093] An exemplary on-demand dispensing device 110 that includes separate and distinct reservoir and dispenser layers/portions is shown in FIG. 8. The device 110 of FIG. 8 is substantially similar to the device 10 described above with respect to FIG. 1-7, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "1" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[094] As shown in FIG. 8, the device 110 includes a dispenser/dispensing portion or layer 130 overlying at least a portion of a reservoir layer or portion 132. The reservoir layer or portion 132 is configured to contain the volume of disinfectant 120 therein. For example, as discussed above, the disinfectant 120 may be absorbed within the reservoir layer or portion 132 and/or the reservoir layer or portion 132 may form a pocket or cavity that contains the disinfectant 120. The dispenser portion or layer 130 may be configured to control the release rate of the disinfectant 120 to/onto the dispensing surface portion 116, and thereby to/onto the user, when the user contacts or wipes the dispensing surface portion 116. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the dispenser portion or layer 130 may comprise pores, apertures, channels, cracks, valves, openings, pathways or other flowpaths 132 for the disinfectant 120 to flow or translate from the reservoir layer or portion 132, through the dispenser portion or layer 130, and to the dispensing surface portion 116. The cross-sectional size, length/thickness, density, and/or total number, for example, of flowpaths 132 may be configured to allow/promote wicking/capillary action of the disinfectant 120 from the reservoir layer or portion 132 to/onto the dispensing surface portion 116 at a particular rate and, thereby, the release/dispense rate of the disinfectant 120 at the dispensing surface portion 116. The dispenser portion or layer 130 is thereby configured to allow/promote movement of the disinfectant 120 therethrough (e.g., via capillary action) at a controlled rate to the dispensing surface portion 116 to keep it loaded/activated with the disinfectant 120.
[095] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 210 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. The device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7 and the device 110 of FIG. 8, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "2" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[096] As shown in FIG. 9, the device 210 includes a reservoir and dispenser portion 214 that includes a plurality of discrete solid, gel and/or encapsulated portions 238 that each comprise the disinfectant 220. The discrete portions 238 are embedded or distributed within an inner portion 236 of the reservoir and dispenser portion 214 below the dispensing surface portion 216. The discrete portions 238 are configured to selectively release at least some of the disinfectant 220 to allow the disinfectant 220 to travel to the dispensing surface portion 216.
For example, the discrete portions 238 may be configured to release disinfectant 220 upon the application of a particular pressure and/or temperature threshold. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the device 210 may be attached to a user or surface 4, and the release mechanism may be applied to the device 210 to release the disinfectant 220 and, thereby, force or allow the disinfectant 220 to travel to the dispensing surface portion 216 (and thereby to a user therefrom).
[097] As shown in FIG. 10, in one example the discrete portions 238 may comprise encapsulated portions 238 that rupture and release the disinfectant 220 upon the application of pressure thereto.
In such an embodiments, the device 210 may be coupled to a user's inner hand/palm 4, for example, and the user can make a fist to squeeze and "crush" the encapsulated portions 238 to release the disinfectant 220. However, it is noted the device 210 may be configured and/or used with a myriad of differing applications and/or release mechanisms to release the disinfectant 220 from the discrete portions 238.
[098] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 310 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 11. The device 310 of FIG. 11 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8 and the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "3" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[099] As shown in FIG. 11, the device 310 includes a plurality of stacked or overlying reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314. The reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314 each include a back side surface 318 that overlies and is removably coupled/attached to the top side of an immediately underlying reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314 (or the attachment layer or portion 312). As noted above, the reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314 may be comprise of one or more portions, layer and/or materials.
[0100] The top side surface of the upper most reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314 of the device 310 comprises or forms the dispensing surface portion 316, as shown in FIG. 11. The reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314 may be removably coupled to each other via any adhesive or mechanical connection (such as a hook and loop fastener) that is configured such that an uppermost exposed reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314 can be manually removed from the device 310 (e.g., manually peeled off the device 310) to expose the immediately underlying reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314 when the volume of disinfectant 320 in the uppermost exposed reservoir and dispenser portions/layers 314 is depleted/dried.
[0101] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 410 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 12. The device 410 of FIG. 12 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8, the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10 and the device 310 of FIG. 11, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "4" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 12, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device 410 comprises at least one reservoir area 442 and at least one dispensing area 440. The reservoir area 442 comprises an area of the reservoir and dispenser portion/layer 414 that comprises the volume of the disinfectant 420, and the dispensing area 440 comprises an area of the reservoir and dispenser portion/layer 414 that is configured to control the release of the volume of the disinfectant 420 and comprises the dispensing surface portion 416 where the disinfectant 420 is ultimately released. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the dispensing area 440 may comprise a plurality of holes, pores or other passages 432 that are spaced from, but in communication with, the reservoir area 442.
[0103] The device 410 is configured that the application of pressure on the reservoir area 442 forces disinfectant 420 from the reservoir area 442 and to and through the dispensing area 440 to the dispensing surface portion 416. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the device 410 may be configured such that pressure applied on the reservoir area 442 along one or more particular directions may act to force the disinfectant 420 through the dispenser portion/layer 414 and to and through the apertures/passageways 432 of the dispensing area 440. In this way, the device 410 may be configured to release/dispense the disinfectant 420 based on a the application of pressure (e.g., hand or finger swipe)on and/or along the dispensing area 440 to dispense the disinfectant 420 through the dispenser portion/layer 414 and to and through the apertures/passageways 432 of the dispensing area 440. The trajectory/directional application of pressure/force on the reservoir area 442 toward the dispensing area 440 may be more effective in dispensing the disinfectant 420 or required to dispense the disinfectant 420.
[0104] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 510 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 13-15. The device 510 of FIGS. 13-15 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8, the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10, the device 310 of FIG. 11 and the device 410 of FIG. 12, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "5" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[0105] As shown in FIGS. 13-15, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device 510 comprises at least one reservoir and pump area 542, at least one dispensing area 540 and at least one defined flowpath/channel 544 for the flow of the disinfectant 520 from the reservoir and pump area 542 to the dispensing area 542. The reservoir and pump area 542 may comprise a volume of the disinfectant 520 contained within a defined flexible internal cavity, opening or pouch that it is fluid communication with at least one defined flowpath/channel 544, as shown in FIGS. 13-15.
The reservoir and pump area 542 may form a raised area that is visually and/or tactically identifiable by a user. The flexible internal cavity of the reservoir and pump area 542 may be substantially sealed but for the at least one defined flowpath/channel 544 such that compression of the reservoir and pump area 542 forces the disinfectant 520 out from the cavity and into and through the at least one defined flowpath/channel 544. As shown in FIG. 14, the area surrounding the reservoir and pump area 542, or at least positioned between the reservoir and pump area 542 and the reservoir and pump area 542 may be sealed off or blocked by a sealing portion 546. As shown in FIG. 15, the at least one defined flowpath/channel 544 may extend through the sealing portion 546 and is configured to contain and direct a flow of the disinfectant 520 from the of the flexible internal cavity of the reservoir and pump area 542 to the dispensing area 542.
[0106] The dispensing area 540 may be configured to hold/contain a volume of the disinfectant 520 delivered from the reservoir and pump area 542 via the at least one flowpath/channel 544 and, ultimately, control the release/dispensing of the disinfectant 520 at the dispensing surface portion 516, as discussed above. The reservoir and pump area 542 may thereby serve as an on-demand supply of the disinfectant 520 for the dispensing area 540 as the disinfectant 520 therein/thereof becomes depleted. In use, a user can apply pressure to the outside or top side 519 of the reservoir and pump area 542 to compress/pressurize the internal cavity thereof, and thereby force a portion of the volume of the disinfectant 520 from the internal cavity, into and through the at least one defined flowpath/channel 544, and to the dispensing area 542. In some embodiments, the dispensing area 542 is configured to control the rate of release of the disinfectant 520 from the dispensing surface portion 516. In some embodiments, the application of pressure on the reservoir and pump area 542 may force the disinfectant 520 through the dispensing area 542 and release disinfectant 520 from the dispensing surface portion 516.
[0107] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 610 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 16. The device 510 of FIG. 16 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8, the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10, the device 310 of FIG. 11, the device 410 of FIG. 12 and the device 510 of FIGS. 13-15, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "6" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[0108] As shown in FIG. 16, the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device 610 comprises at least one reservoir and pump area 642, at least one dispensing area 640 and at least one defined flowpath/channel 644 for the flow of the disinfectant 620 from the reservoir and pump area 642 to the dispensing area 642 and, ultimately, out of the dispensing surface portion 616. As shown in FIG. 16, the dispensing device 610 differs from the dispensing device 610 as it is configured for an active skin portion 4 of a user 1. The pump area 642 is configured such that closing of the user's 1 hand/palm compresses the internal cavity thereof to compress/pressurize the cavity and thereby force the disinfectant 620 through a plurality of channels 644 to the dispensing area 640.
In some embodiments, the dispensing area 640 may comprise a plurality of spaced release points or areas.
[0109] The device 610 may be configured such that the disinfectant 620 is dispensed due to movement of the user 1, such as but not limited to a haptic gesture of the user 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the device 610 may be configured such that the reservoir and pump area 642 is positioned in a palm area of the device 610 (i.e., that is positioned on the user's 1 palm when the device 610 is attached to the user's inner hand 4), and include a plurality of channels 644 extending to a plurality of dispensing areas 640 (such as near the user's 1 finger(s)). As shown in FIG. 16, in some embodiments the device 610 may extend over the user's 1 palm and at least one finger when attached to the user's 1 inner hand 4. In this way, a user 1 can selectively apply the disinfectant 20 to their palm and/or at least one finger simply by compressing their hand or making a fist (i.e., compressing the internal cavity of the reservoir and pump area 642) (or otherwise compressing the reservoir and pump area 642). In one exemplary embodiment, the device 610 may also extend to at least a portion of the back of the user/s 2 hand 4, such as extending over/around the tip of at least one finger of the user's 1 hand 4.
[0110] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 710 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 17. The device 610 of FIGS. 13-15 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8, the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10, the device 310 of FIG. 11, the device 410 of FIG. 12, the device 510 of FIGS. 13-15 and the device 610 of FIG. 16, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "7" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[0111] The dispensing device 710 is substantially identical to the dispensing device 610 but for the inclusion of a plurality of reservoir and pump areas 742 (or a plurality of internal cavities of a reservoir and pump area 742) and a plurality of portions that extend over a plurality of a user's 1 fingers when the device 710 is coupled to the user's inner hand 4. As shown in FIG. 17, the device 710 is may thereby be configured to suit any wearer (e.g., any body portion or any surface of any inanimate object) and any movement/re-arrangement of the device 710 to compress the reservoir and pump areas 742 and cause the disinfectant 720 to be selectively dispensed.
[0112] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 810 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 18. The device 810 of FIG. 18 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8, the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10, the device 310 of FIG. 11, the device 410 of FIG. 12, the device 510 of FIGS. 13-15, the device 610 of FIG. 16 and the device 710 of FIG. 17, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "8" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[0113] As shown in FIG. 18, the reservoir and dispenser portion/layer 814 of the on-demand disinfectant dispensing device 810 comprises at least one (manually) flexible and porous polymer member comprising internal voids in communication with the outer dispenser surface portion 816 thereof The member may be comprised of any flexible porous polymer. For example, the polymer member may be formed of silicone, polyurethane, hydrogel or a combination thereof The member may form an elongate and/or sheet-like shape, and may be arranged into a roll form (which may facilitate the application of the device 810). The member may be any shape and/or length to suit a particular surface.
[0114] Also shown in FIG. 18, the polymer member of the device 810 includes a disinfectant agent 820 contained within the internal voids of the member. The member is configured such that the disinfectant 820 is naturally drawn to the outer dispenser surface portion 816 from within the internal voids, such as due to capillary action (and/or evaporation of the disinfectant 820 at the dispenser surface portion 816).
[0115] In some embodiments, the device 810 may include an adhesive or attachment mechanism coupled to a backside of the polymer member configured to attach/affix the device 810 to a surface, as discussed above (and potentially a protective film thereover). In some other embodiments, the device 810 may be void of an adhesive or attachment mechanism coupled to a backside of the polymer member (which may be applied/coupled thereto just prior to being coupled to a surface, for example).
[0116] In some embodiments, the member may include perforations, cuts, gaps or the like (not shown) configured to allow a portion(s) of the member to be manually separated. In some embodiments, the device 810 may include a dispenser device that holds the member and allows the member to be dispensed therefrom. In some such embodiments, the dispenser device may include a cutting implement configured to selectively cut the member.
[0117] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 910 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 19. The device 910 of FIG. 19 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8, the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10, the device 310 of FIG. 11, the device 410 of FIG. 12, the device 510 of FIGS. 13-15, the device 610 of FIG. 16, the device 710 of FIG. 17 and the device 810 of FIG. 18, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "9" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[0118] As shown in FIG. 19, the device 910 includes a pocket portion 950 with an internal cavity 957 and the reservoir portion 932 that contains a disinfectant 920 therein configured to couple (e.g., removably) within the internal cavity 957. In some embodiments, the pocket portion 950 may be formed of or comprise a backing layer or portion 952 that is configured to prevent the disinfectant 920 from passing therethrough. For example, the backing layer or portion 952 may be waterproof or water resistant, as shown in FIG. 19. As also shown in FIG. 19, the pocket portion 950 may include a front portion 954. The front portion 954 and the backing portion 952 may cooperate to form the internal cavity 957 therebetween, as shown in FIG. 19.
[0119] In some embodiments, the front portion 954 may include or define an opening or window such that an outer surface of the reservoir portion 932 is exposed when the reservoir portion 932 is positioned within the pocket portion 950. In such an embodiments, the reservoir portion 932 may comprise the reservoir portion and the dispensing portion 914, as discussed above. In this way, the outer surface of the reservoir portion 932 may define the disinfectant dispensing surface 916.
[0120] In some other embodiments (not shown), the front portion 954 may extend over at least a substantial portion of the outer surface of the reservoir portion 932 when the reservoir portion 932 is positioned within the pocket portion 950. In such an embodiment, the reservoir portion 932 may comprise the reservoir portion of the device 910 as discussed above, and the front portion 954 may comprise (and thus be configured as) the dispensing portion 914 of the device 910, as discussed above. In this way, the outer surface of the front portion 954 may define the disinfectant dispensing surface 916.
[0121] The backside of the pocket portion 950 may include the attachment layer or portion 912 of the device 910 and be configured to couple (removably or fixedly) to any myriad of surfaces, as discussed above.
[0122] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 1010 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 20 and 21. The device 1010 of FIGS. 20 and 21 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8, the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10, the device 310 of FIG. 11, the device 410 of FIG. 12, the device 510 of FIGS. 13-

15, the device 610 of FIG. 16, the device 710 of FIG. 17, the device 810 of FIG. 18 and the device 910 of FIG. 19, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "10" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[0123] As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the device 1010 is substantially similar to the device 910 discussed above with respect to FIG. 19. Device 1010 differs from the device 910 in that the pocket portion 1050 is integrated into another object 2, such as a clothing item or other item that would be worn or carried by a user. As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the front portion 1054 of the pocket portion 1050 defines a window or opening 1056 such that the outer surface of the reservoir portion 1032 is exposed when the reservoir portion 1032 is positioned within the internal cavity 1057 of the pocket portion 950. The reservoir portion 1032 thereby comprises the reservoir portion of the device 1010, and the front portion 1054 comprises (and is thus configured as) the dispensing portion 1014 of the device 101. The outer surface of the front portion 1054 also thereby defines the disinfectant dispensing surface 1016, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21.
[0124] Another exemplary embodiment of an on-demand dispensing device 1110 according to the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 22. The device 1110 of FIG. 22 is substantially similar to the device 10 of FIG. 1-7, the device 110 of FIG. 8, the device 210 of FIGS. 9 and 10, the device 310 of FIG. 11, the device 410 of FIG. 12, the device 510 of FIGS. 13-15, the device 610 of FIG. 16, the device 710 of FIG. 17, the device 810 of FIG. 18, the device 910 of FIG.
19 and the device 1010 of FIGS. 20 and 21, and therefore like reference numerals preceded with "11" are used to indicate like components, aspects, functions, processes or functions, and the description above directed to thereto equally applies, and is not repeated for brevity and clarity purposes.
[0125] As shown in FIG. 22, the device 1110 is substantially similar to the device 1010 discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1920 and 21. Device 1110 differs from the device 1010 in that the front portion 1154 extends over at least a substantial portion of the outer surface of the reservoir portion 1132 when the reservoir portion 1132 is positioned within the internal cavity 1157 of the pocket portion 1150. The reservoir portion 1132 comprises the reservoir portion of the device 1110 as discussed above, and the front portion 1154 comprises (and thus is configured as) the dispensing portion 1114 of the device 1110, as discussed above. In this way, the outer surface of the front portion 1154 defines the disinfectant dispensing surface 1116 [0126] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various examples without departing from their scope.
While dimensions and types of materials may be described herein, they are intended to define parameters of some of the various examples, and they are by no means limiting to all examples and are merely exemplary. Many other examples will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the various examples should, therefore, be determined with reference to the claims included herein, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
[0127] As used herein, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." Moreover, as used herein, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as reference labels, and are not intended to impose numerical, structural or other requirements. Forms of term "based on" herein encompass relationships where an element is partially based on as well as relationships where an element is entirely based on. Forms of the term "defined" encompass relationships where an element is partially defined as well as relationships where an element is entirely defined. Further, the limitations of the claims included herein are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase "means for" followed by a statement of function cavity of further structure. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such objects or advantages described above may be achieved in accordance with any particular example.
Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the systems and methods described herein may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0128] While the disclosure has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of examples, it should be readily understood that the disclosure is not limited to such disclosed examples. Rather, this disclosure can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Additionally, while various examples have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of the disclosure may include only one example or some of the described examples. Also, while some disclosures are described as having a certain number of elements, it will be understood that the examples can be practiced with less than or greater than the certain number of elements.
[0129] It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein.

Claims

WO 2021/248127 PCT/US2021/036212What is claimed is:

1. A dispensing device, comprising:
an attachment portion comprising an attachment surface that is configured to removably affix the device to an object; and a reservoir and dispenser portion coupled to and overlying at least a portion of the attachment portion, the reservoir and dispenser portion containing a volume of an agent and configured to control a dispense rate of the agent to a user at an exposed outer dispenser surface portion thereof when the user touches the outer surface portion.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the attachment portion is configured to directly removably attach to skin of a user.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the attachment portion comprises a biocompatible adhesive layer that forms the attachment surface.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the biocompatible adhesive comprises a biocompatible pressure sensitive adhesive.

5. The device according to claims 2 or 3, wherein the attachment portion further comprises a removably protective film extending over the biocompatible adhesive.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the attachment portion is configured to removably attach to an inanimate object.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the attachment portion comprises an adhesive and/or at least mechanical connector configured to removably attach to the inanimate object and that forms the attachment surface.

8. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the attachment portion comprises a carrier layer.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the carrier layer comprises at least one layer comprises of a fabric, plastic or latex, and wherein the attachment surface is formed by an attachment mechanism coupled to the carrier layer.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein the carrier layer comprises a water absorbable and/or air permeable fabric layer.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the fabric layer comprises a natural or synthetic woven fabric layer.

12. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the attachment portion and the reservoir and dispenser portion are flexible.

13. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a single layer.

14. The device according to any of claims 1-13, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises at least one reservoir layer or portion that contains the volume of the agent and at least one dispenser layer or portion that forms the outer dispenser surface portion, the at least one reservoir layer or portion and the at least one dispenser layer or portion being separate and distinct from each other.

15. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a waterproof layer.

16. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the volume of the agent is absorbed into the reservoir and dispenser portion.

17. The device according to any of claims 1-15, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion defines at least one inner cavity that contains the volume of the agent.

18. The device according to any of claims 1-15, wherein the volume of the agent comprises a plurality of distinct agent portions distributed within the reservoir and dispenser portion.

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein the plurality of distinct agent portions comprises capsulated agent portions.

20. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises one or more layers of a fabric, Gore-Tex, gauze, an absorbing gel, a polymer, paper, a foam or a combination thereof.

21. The device according to claim 20, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises one or more layers of cotton, polyester, silicone, polyurethane, polyamide, polyethylene, hydrogel or a combination thereof.

22. The device according claim 21, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a cotton fabric, a nylon fabric, a polyester fabric, a flashspun high-density polyethylene fiber, a hydrogel, a flexible polyamide net coated with silicone, a hydrogel formed of hydrophilic polymers, or a combination thereof.

23. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a plurality of selectively removably attached stacked layers each with an upper surface that forms the outer dispenser surface portion when positioned as the uppermost layer.

24. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a pore/perforation size, pore/perforation arrangement, density, thickness, and capillary action of the reservoir and dispenser portion is configured to control the amount of the agent that travels through the reservoir and dispenser portion and to outer dispenser surface portion.

25 The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the agent is a liquid and/or gel.

26. The device according to any of the claims 1-24, wherein the agent is solid.

27. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the agent is a disinfectant.

28. The device according claim 27, wherein the disinfectant is a biocompatible disinfectant.

29. The device according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the disinfectant comprises ethyl, isopropyl, ethanol (ethyl alcohol), triclosan, triclocarban, benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride or a combination thereof.

30. The device according to any claims 27-29, wherein the disinfectant comprises ethanol (ethyl alcohol).

31. The device according to any claims 1-26, wherein the agent comprises an essential oil.

32. The device according to any claims 1-26, wherein the agent comprises a medicant or vitamin.

33. The device according to any claims 1-26, wherein the agent comprises an insecticide.

34. The device according to any claims 1-26, wherein the agent comprises a fragrance.

35. The device according to any claims 1-26, wherein the agent comprises a food product.

36. The device according to any claims 1-26, wherein the agent comprises a cleaning product.

37. The device according to any claims 1-26, wherein the agent comprises a paint.

38. The device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a cover layer overlying the outer dispenser surface portion and removably attached thereto.

39. The device according to claim 38, wherein an outer dispenser surface portion of the cover layer comprises a visual and/or tactile indication and/or is configured to display a visual indication.

40. The device according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the outer dispenser surface portion of the cover layer comprises at least one of a visible light reflective material or an illumination device thereon.

41. The device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a backer layer overlying the attachment portion and removably attached thereto.

42. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion is configured to change color between at least two differing total volumes of the agent contained therein.

43. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises a plurality of removably coupled overlying reservoir and dispenser layers that each contain a volume of the agent, and wherein the upper most reservoir and dispenser layer forms the outer dispenser surface portion.

44. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion comprises at least one reservoir area and at least one dispensing area that is spaced from the at least one reservoir area, and wherein the at least one dispensing area forms the outer dispenser surface portion.

45. The device according to claim 44, wherein the at least one reservoir area comprises a compressible internal cavity that contains the volume of the agent and at least one channel that defines a pathway for the flow of the agent from the internal cavity to the at least one dispensing area.

46. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the device is elongated and rolled upon itself into a spiral form.

47. The device according to any of claims 1-45, wherein the device comprises a pocket with an internal cavity, and wherein the reservoir and dispenser portion is positioned within the internal cavity of the pocket.

48. The device according to claim 47, wherein the attachment portion comprises a backside of the internal cavity of the pocket.

49. A method of disinfecting a surface, comprising:
obtaining the device according to any of claims 1-48, wherein the agent of the device comprises a topical disinfectant;
removably affixing the attachment portion of the device to an object; and transferring a portion of the disinfectant from the device via the outer dispenser surface portion to the surface.

50. The method according to claim 49, wherein the transferring the portion of the disinfectant from the device to the surface comprises engaging the outer dispenser surface portion and the surface.

51. The method according to claim 49, wherein the transferring the portion of the disinfectant from the device to the surface comprises manually touching the outer dispenser surface portion to dispense the portion of the disinfectant, and manually transferring at least some of the dispensed portion of the disinfectant to the surface.

52. A disinfectant construct, comprising:
a flexible and porous polymer member comprising internal voids in communication with an outer dispenser surface portion; and a disinfectant contained within the internal voids of the member.

53. The construct according to claim 52, wherein the disinfectant is naturally drawn to the outer dispenser surface portion from within the internal voids due to capillary action.

54. The construct according to claim 52 or 53, wherein the polymer member comprises silicone, polyurethane, hydrogel or a combination thereof

55. The construct according to any of claims 52-54, wherein the disinfectant is a liquid and/or gel biocompatible disinfectant.

56. The construct according to any of claims 52-55, wherein the member is thin and elongated.

57. The construct according to any of claims 52-56, wherein the member is arranged in a rolled arrangement.

58. The construct according to any of claims 52-57, further comprising an adhesive or attachment mechanism coupled to a backside of the member.

59. The construct according to claim 58, wherein the adhesive or attachment mechanism is configured affix the member to an outer surface of an object.