Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
  • B05B9/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour
  • B05B9/03—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour characterised by means for supplying liquid or other fluent material
  • B05B9/04—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent material, without essentially mixing with gas or vapour characterised by means for supplying liquid or other fluent material with pressurised or compressible container; with pump
  • B05B9/08—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type
  • B05B9/0805—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type comprising a pressurised or compressible container for liquid or other fluent material
  • B05B9/0833—Apparatus to be carried on or by a person, e.g. of knapsack type comprising a pressurised or compressible container for liquid or other fluent material comprising a compressed gas container, e.g. a nitrogen cartridge
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A46—BRUSHWARE
  • A46B—BRUSHES
  • A46B11/00—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water
  • A46B11/001—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs
  • A46B11/0017—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs with pre-pressurised reservoirs, e.g. aerosols
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
  • B01F33/00—Other mixers; Mixing plants; Combinations of mixers
  • B01F33/80—Mixing plants; Combinations of mixers
  • B01F33/84—Mixing plants with mixing receptacles receiving material dispensed from several component receptacles, e.g. paint tins
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
  • B05B12/00—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area
  • B05B12/14—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for supplying a selected one of a plurality of liquids or other fluent materials or several in selected proportions to a spray apparatus, e.g. to a single spray outlet
  • B05B12/1418—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for supplying a selected one of a plurality of liquids or other fluent materials or several in selected proportions to a spray apparatus, e.g. to a single spray outlet for supplying several liquids or other fluent materials in selected proportions to a single spray outlet
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
  • B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
  • B05B7/24—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
  • B05B7/26—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
  • B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
  • B05B7/24—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas with means, e.g. a container, for supplying liquid or other fluent material to a discharge device
  • B05B7/26—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device
  • B05B7/28—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device in which one liquid or other fluent material is fed or drawn through an orifice into a stream of a carrying fluid
  • B05B7/32—Apparatus in which liquids or other fluent materials from different sources are brought together before entering the discharge device in which one liquid or other fluent material is fed or drawn through an orifice into a stream of a carrying fluid the fed liquid or other fluent material being under pressure
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C—APPARATUS FOR APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C11/00—Component parts, details or accessories not specifically provided for in groups B05C1/00 - B05C9/00
  • B05C11/10—Storage, supply or control of liquid or other fluent material; Recovery of excess liquid or other fluent material
  • B05C11/1002—Means for controlling supply, i.e. flow or pressure, of liquid or other fluent material to the applying apparatus, e.g. valves
  • B05C11/1015—Means for controlling supply, i.e. flow or pressure, of liquid or other fluent material to the applying apparatus, e.g. valves responsive to a conditions of ambient medium or target, e.g. humidity, temperature ; responsive to position or movement of the coating head relative to the target
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C—APPARATUS FOR APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C17/00—Hand tools or apparatus using hand held tools, for applying liquids or other fluent materials to, for spreading applied liquids or other fluent materials on, or for partially removing applied liquids or other fluent materials from, surfaces
  • B05C17/002—Hand tools or apparatus using hand held tools, for applying liquids or other fluent materials to, for spreading applied liquids or other fluent materials on, or for partially removing applied liquids or other fluent materials from, surfaces with feed system for supplying material from an external source; Supply controls therefor
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C—APPARATUS FOR APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C17/00—Hand tools or apparatus using hand held tools, for applying liquids or other fluent materials to, for spreading applied liquids or other fluent materials on, or for partially removing applied liquids or other fluent materials from, surfaces
  • B05C17/02—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts
  • B05C17/03—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller
  • B05C17/0316—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller with pressurised or compressible container
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C—APPARATUS FOR APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C17/00—Hand tools or apparatus using hand held tools, for applying liquids or other fluent materials to, for spreading applied liquids or other fluent materials on, or for partially removing applied liquids or other fluent materials from, surfaces
  • B05C17/02—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts
  • B05C17/03—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller
  • B05C17/035—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller direct or indirectly to the outer surface of the coating roller
  • B05C17/0352—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller direct or indirectly to the outer surface of the coating roller indirectly, i.e. by using transfer means, e.g. pads, brushes, rollers or bands
  • B05C17/0355—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller direct or indirectly to the outer surface of the coating roller indirectly, i.e. by using transfer means, e.g. pads, brushes, rollers or bands using transfer rollers
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C—APPARATUS FOR APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
  • B05C17/00—Hand tools or apparatus using hand held tools, for applying liquids or other fluent materials to, for spreading applied liquids or other fluent materials on, or for partially removing applied liquids or other fluent materials from, surfaces
  • B05C17/02—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts
  • B05C17/03—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller
  • B05C17/035—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller direct or indirectly to the outer surface of the coating roller
  • B05C17/0357—Rollers ; Hand tools comprising coating rollers or coating endless belts with feed system for supplying material from an external source or with a reservoir or container for liquid or other fluent material located in or on the hand tool outside the coating roller direct or indirectly to the outer surface of the coating roller directly from a container attached to the hand tool, e.g. by gravity or dipping
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A46—BRUSHWARE
  • A46B—BRUSHES
  • A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
  • A46B2200/20—Brushes for applying products to surfaces in general
  • A46B2200/202—Applicator paint brush
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
  • B01F2101/00—Mixing characterised by the nature of the mixed materials or by the application field
  • B01F2101/06—Mixing of food ingredients
  • B01F2101/14—Mixing of ingredients for non-alcoholic beverages; Dissolving sugar in water
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
  • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
  • B01F2101/00—Mixing characterised by the nature of the mixed materials or by the application field
  • B01F2101/30—Mixing paints or paint ingredients, e.g. pigments, dyes, colours, lacquers or enamel
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29B—PREPARATION OR PRETREATMENT OF THE MATERIAL TO BE SHAPED; MAKING GRANULES OR PREFORMS; RECOVERY OF PLASTICS OR OTHER CONSTITUENTS OF WASTE MATERIAL CONTAINING PLASTICS
  • B29B11/00—Making preforms
  • B29B11/14—Making preforms characterised by structure or composition
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/07—Preforms or parisons characterised by their configuration
  • B29C2949/0715—Preforms or parisons characterised by their configuration the preform having one end closed
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/07—Preforms or parisons characterised by their configuration
  • B29C2949/076—Preforms or parisons characterised by their configuration characterised by the shape
  • B29C2949/0768—Preforms or parisons characterised by their configuration characterised by the shape characterised by the shape of specific parts of preform
  • B29C2949/078—Preforms or parisons characterised by their configuration characterised by the shape characterised by the shape of specific parts of preform characterised by the bottom
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/07—Preforms or parisons characterised by their configuration
  • B29C2949/079—Auxiliary parts or inserts
  • B29C2949/08—Preforms made of several individual parts, e.g. by welding or gluing parts together
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/30—Preforms or parisons made of several components
  • B29C2949/3008—Preforms or parisons made of several components at neck portion
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/30—Preforms or parisons made of several components
  • B29C2949/3012—Preforms or parisons made of several components at flange portion
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/30—Preforms or parisons made of several components
  • B29C2949/3016—Preforms or parisons made of several components at body portion
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/30—Preforms or parisons made of several components
  • B29C2949/302—Preforms or parisons made of several components at bottom portion
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/30—Preforms or parisons made of several components
  • B29C2949/3032—Preforms or parisons made of several components having components being injected
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C2949/00—Indexing scheme relating to blow-moulding
  • B29C2949/30—Preforms or parisons made of several components
  • B29C2949/3086—Interaction between two or more components, e.g. type of or lack of bonding
  • B29C2949/3094—Interaction between two or more components, e.g. type of or lack of bonding preform having at least partially loose components, e.g. at least partially loose layers
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C49/00—Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C49/02—Combined blow-moulding and manufacture of the preform or the parison
  • B29C49/06—Injection blow-moulding
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C49/00—Blow-moulding, i.e. blowing a preform or parison to a desired shape within a mould; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C49/071—Preforms or parisons characterised by their configuration, e.g. geometry, dimensions or physical properties
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
  • B29L2009/00—Layered products
  • B29L2009/001—Layered products the layers being loose
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
  • B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
  • B29L2031/712—Containers; Packaging elements or accessories, Packages
  • B29L2031/7158—Bottles

Definitions

• the present invention relates to dispensing technologies, and in particular to systems and methods for the efficient and convenient dispensing of one or more liquids, or varying viscosities, that are applied over significant periods of time, such as paint, stain.
• An exemplary dispensing device can be provided that is portable and self- contained, can be worn by a user, and can utilize pre-filled containers of the product to be dispensed, thus improving upon conventional systems that require a separate paint container to which a user is effectively tethered.
• Novel activation mechanisms can be used that allow the system to intelligently sense when a user desires to turn the device on or off. These mechanisms incorporate fail-safe sensors that lock out the on/off switch if a user's hand is not sensed as actually holding the paint brush.
• Flair® bottles can be used with such systems, including specialized Flair bottles to dispense more than one liquid at a time, and various nozzles, brushes, rollers and other dispensing devices can be used, thus allowing multiple liquids, sprays, foams, paints, stains, foodstuffs and beverages to be conveniently dispensed using such exemplary systems.
• Various novel performs for the manufacture and blowing of multi-layer Flair® bottles are also presented.
• patent or application file may contain at least one drawing executed in color. If that is the case, copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.
• Fig. 1 illustrates general aspects of an exemplary standard system for dispensing paint according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 2 illustrates the system of Fig. 1 with the power pack turned on, and thus the Flair® container pressurized, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 3A depicts the system of Fig. 1 with the activation zone being touched by a user, thus opening a valve and dispensing the paint according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 3B depicts a variation of Fig. 3A where an electronically activated paint roller is used in place of a paint brush;
• Fig. 4 depicts the exemplary system of Fig. 3A where paint flow has been stopped by a user having ceased to touch a brush activation zone;
• Fig. 5A depicts an exemplary system as shown in Fig. 2 where an exemplary Piston- Flair® container is used according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 5B depicts an exemplary system where multiple exemplary Piston-Flair®
• FIG. 5C depicts an exemplary system as shown in Fig. 5B where multiple standard Flair® containers are used according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 6 depicts an exemplary system such as is shown in Fig. 3B where a Multi-Layer Flair® container is used according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 7 depicts details of an exemplary power pack module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 7A depicts electronic details of an exemplary power pack module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 8 depicts details of a power pack pressure switch and other internal structures according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• Fig. 9 depicts various display sequences of an exemplary power pack LED indicator system and its respective exemplary meanings according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 10 depicts exemplary dimensions and form factor of the exemplary power pack of Figs. 7-9;
• Fig. 11 depicts details of an exemplary portable container holder assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 11A exemplary pinch valve features according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Fig. 12 depicts details of an exemplary container holder emergency and rest button system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 13 depicts a first step in opening the exemplary container holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 14 depicts a second step in opening the exemplary container holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 15 depicts exemplary dimensional details of an exemplary container holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• Fig. 16 depicts exemplary container closures according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Fig. 17 depicts an exemplary tube used to conduct paint from a container to a paint brush according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Figs. 18-20 depict structural details and functionality of an electric brush holder according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Figs. 21 depict electrical details of a capacitive handle according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Fig. 22 depicts an exemplary capacitive handle wiring arrangement according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 23 depicts exemplary brush head interfaces according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Figs. 24-29 depict various stages in assembly of an exemplary paint brush and tube according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• FIGs. 30-31 depict details of exemplary standard Flair® bottles and caps for use according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 32 depicts exemplary packaging options according to various exemplary
• Fig. 33 depicts generating a liquid-air mix with a standard Flair® system such as shown in Fig. 1 using air from a Flair® gap according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 34 depicts generating a liquid-air mix with a standard Flair® system using air from a separate line from the power pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 35 depicts generating a liquid-air mix with a Piston Flair® system using air from a separate line from the power pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 36 depicts generating a multi-liquid mix using a Multi-Layer Flair® system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 37 depicts generating a multi-liquid/air mix with a Multi-Layer Flair® system using air from a Flair® gap according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 38 depicts generating a multi-liquid/air mix with a Multi-Layer Flair® system using air from a separate line from the power pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
• Fig. 39 depicts various exemplary tube configurations according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Fig. 40 depicts an exemplary beverage dispensing application according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Fig. 41 depicts the exemplary beverage dispensing application of Fig. 39 as used in an exemplary tavern or bar according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Figs. 42-50 depict an exemplary harness system that can be used with various exemplary embodiments of the present invention to deliver paint, silicone or other liquids;
• Fig. 51 depicts an exemplary preform for an exemplary Multi Layer Flair® bottle according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 52 depicts cross sections of the exemplary Multi Layer Flair® preform of Fig. 51 as assembled according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 53 depicts the exemplary Multi Layer Flair® preform of Fig. 51 as prepared for blow molding and after blowing according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 54 depicts the exemplary Multi Layer Flair® preform of Fig. 53 before and after pushing in the (interior) third layer according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 55 depicts the exemplary techniques for filling the exemplary Multi Layer Flair® preform of Fig. 54 (after pushing in the third layer) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 56 depicts the exemplary Multi Layer Flair® preform of Fig. 55 dispensing two liquids according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 57 depicts an alternate preform for an exemplary Multi Layer Flair® bottle according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 58 depicts cross sections of the exemplary Multi Layer Flair® perform of Fig. 57 as assembled according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Fig. 59 depicts an alternate integrated bottle container and power pack, wearable on a user's back, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Fig. 60 depicts exemplary personalizations and customizations of an exemplary brush handle according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• systems and methods to efficiently dispense paint, stain, adhesives, caulks, silicone, etc., and the like, including foodstuffs, condiments, beverages and other comestibles are presented.
• systems according to the present invention are self-contained, and also portable. In fact, they can be effectively worn by a user, or carried, as in the manner of a hand-held vacuum. They can also incorporate novel activation mechanisms that allow the system to intelligently sense when a user desires to turn on and to turn off the device and operate valving accordingly.
• Such exemplary devices incorporate various embodiments and types of the "bag within a bag” or inner container/outer container Flair® technology developed and provided by Dispensing Technologies , B.V. of Helmond, The Netherlands.
• Flair® technology generally involves bag in a bag, or bag in a bottle devices that are integrally molded from one or more performs.
• a displacing medium can be introduced between the outer container and an inner container so as to pressurize the inner container, thus facilitating the emptying the contents of the inner container without said contents ever coming in contact with the displacing medium or the outside atmosphere.
• Flair® technology also includes, for example, valves, nozzles, pumps and other parts and ancillary equipment used in connection with such bag in bag, bag in bottle, or inner container/outer container technologies.
• the present invention is directed to various uses of Flair® technology as applied to the dispensing of paint, stain and the like, such as can be used in the construction industry, or by individuals doing home and/or building repair and maintenance.
• the present invention is also directed to various uses of Flair® technology as applied to the dispensing of beverages and foodstuffs, as well as sprays, stains, paints, adhesives, caulks, lubricants, foams and the like, using one or multiple liquid components, and in the case of sprays and foams, an air component as well.
• a beneficial feature of systems and methods according to the present invention is both the portability and self-contained aspects, as noted above.
• an exemplary paint dispensing system can contain, for example, a power pack 180, a container holder 170, a Flair® type bottle 120 filled with paint, a pinch valve 100, a paint tube 1 10, and, at the end of the paint tube - an active handle assembly, including, for example, a detection zone 130, an activation zone 150, and a paint brush 160 comprising or connected to a novel printed circuit board (“PCB”) 140.
• PCB printed circuit board
• power pack 180 delivers air pressure and electric power to the system
• container holder 170 contains and connects a (pre-filled) Flair® type bottle with paint 120 to the system, and comprises pinch valve 100, normally closed, that prevents paint flow through the paint conduit tube 1 10 unless a user causes such valve to open.
• Paint brush 160 distributes paint to an exemplary object or surface, and an exemplary brush holder can, for example, detect the presence of a user's hand on a detection zone 130. If such a presence is detected, then - and only then - activation zone 150 will respond to a user's touch to open pinch valve 100 and thus activate paint flow.
• the container holder 170 can, for example, be worn on a user's back, allowing a completely self-contained system with full portability.
• Fig. 2 illustrates the system of Fig. 1 with power pack 180 turned on (note the green indicator light at the bottom of power pack 180).
• the pump contained in such power pack will run until the Flair® container is pressurized to a certain preset value.
• air or other pressurization medium has been let in between the two layers of the Flair® type container, and the paint or stain, for example, in the inner bottle is now pressurized.
• pinch valve 100 has been detected on detection zone 130, and thus it is shown in green, but the user has not yet pressed or touched activation zone 150, so at this point pinch valve 100 remains closed, and no paint can yet flow, and thus paint brush 160 has no paint flowing out of it.
• Figs. 3A and 3B depict the exemplary system of Figs. 1 -2 with both detection zone 130, and now activation zone 150 being touched by a user.
• This causes PCB 140 to send a signal to open pinch valve 100, as shown, allowing paint to flow in paint tube 1 10, and thus allow paint to be dispensed from paint brush 160, as shown.
• the pinch valve can thus be spring loaded to the closed position, and energy must be expended to open it.
• different approaches can be used that do not require an ongoing signal to be sent, and energy to be continually expended, to open a valve regulating the paint flow out of the container.
• Figs. 3 depicts a standard system as shown in Fig. 2 using a paint brush
• Fig. 3B depicts a variation of Fig. 3A where a novel electrically controlled paint roller is used in place of a paint brush, all else being equal.
• exemplary systems according to the present invention save packaging/waste, time and cost.
• Fig. 4 depicts the system of Figs. 3A and B where paint flow has been stopped by a user now having released activation zone 150 (thus activation zone 150 now shown in red).
• This causes PCB 140 to stop sending a signal to pinch valve 100 to open, and pinch valve 100 thus closes, stopping the flow of the paint through paint tube 1 10 and out of paint brush 160, the default setting for pinch valve 100 being closed unless a signal to open it is received and perpetuated.
• PCB 140 to stop sending a signal to pinch valve 100 to open, and pinch valve 100 thus closes, stopping the flow of the paint through paint tube 1 10 and out of paint brush 160, the default setting for pinch valve 100 being closed unless a signal to open it is received and perpetuated.
• pinch valve 100 requires energy to continually send the "open pinch valve" signal
• a toggle type switch can be used, which goes on with one touch and off with a subsequent touch.
• the volume of the inner Flair® bottle with paint 120 has shrunk, given that a certain volume of paint has been dispensed.
• the pressure between the inner container and outer container is maintained, and thus the inner container shrinks, and no air bubbles or occlusions can ever develop within it.
• the pump runs whenever air pressure drops below a preset value.
• the blue line shows schematically the air line running from the pump to the Flair® container.
• power pack 180 supplies power to pinch valve 100 as well (green line).
• Figs. 5A-5B depict systems essentially identical to that of Fig. 4 except that here a different type of Flair® Bottle is used to hold the liquid being dispensed.
• the Flair® Bottle depicted in Figs. 5A and 5B is a "Piston Flair" type bottle 121 .
• the unique characteristics of a Piston Flair® Bottle are that the inner container is partially glued to a portion of the inner surface of the outer container, such that the bottom, unglued portion of the inner container folds under itself as its contents are dispensed. Piston Flair® technology is described in detail in U.S.
• Fig. 5B depicts an exemplary system where multiple Piston Flair bottles are used in parallel. Extending this approach, one can mix more than 2 bottles as well. Thus, 3, 4, 5, or even more bottles can be used in a combined parallel system. Using electronically controlled valving, a user can thus mix different liquids as needed or desired in precisely defined mixtures. For example, for color mixing one can open, e.g., Valve 1 for 1 second, Valve 7 for 13 seconds, etc., etc., where each Flair® bottle holds a primary or specialized component color in an exemplary color scheme.
• the valve controlling the flow of the liquid can, for example, be provided at the bottle holder, as shown, or, for example, for thin liquids, requiring small valves, at the dispensing end, i.e., at the nozzle, brush or roller.
• Fig. 5C depicts using two standard Flair bottles 120 in a similar tandem set-up.
• one uses a standard Flair bottle which has a lower cost, for lower volume (under 8 Liters, for example), thinner, less viscous liquids.
• Piston Flair® bottles which generally have a higher cost, can be used. Piston Flair® bottles concentrate the pressure along one direction (from the bottom of the bottle upwards), and along one 2D area, and can thus exert a greater force on the inner Flair® container at a given pressure.
• FIG. 6 shows yet another exemplary dispensing system, similar to that of Figs. 3, namely a paint dispensing system using a Multi-Layer Flair® Bottle 163.
• a Multi-Layer Flair® Bottle operates under the same principle as the standard Flair® bottle 120 as shown in Fig.
• the Multi Layer Flair® Bottle 163 has an outer layer shown in black outline, and an air gap, or displacing medium gap, shown in blue between the outer layer and the first inner container.
• the first inner container 161 contains a Liquid A, shown in violet.
• a second inner container 162 with Liquid B shown in yellow.
• Multi-Layer Flair Bottle 163 layers/bags can be added as needed and various numbers of multiple layers can be used in Multi-Layer Flair Bottle 163.
• anti-collapse tube 164 shown in black which prevents the liquids from being blocked by an uncontrolled collapsed bag. In other words, if one of the bags crimps in its middle there may be liquid at the bottom of the container which cannot be pushed out through the opening at the top due to such crimping.
• Anti-collapse tube 164 prevents that and maintains the various layers of the Multi-Layer Flair Bottle in un- collapsed configurations.
• Fig. 7 provides details and features of an exemplary power pack module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• the power pack can be attached to a user's belt via belt clip 720.
• Pressure switch 730 allows a user to set a preset pressure value for the system, as described above.
• LED indicator 740 displays a light signal when the pump is on.
• air outlet 750 which runs to the Flair® container and supplies it with the pressurization medium (e.g., air), and electric connector 760 which powers pinch valve 100, as shown in Figs. 1 -6).
• pressurization medium e.g., air
• Fig. 7A depicts various electronic features of an exemplary power pack according to exemplary embodiments for present inventions.
• Such features can include, for example, a built-in fast charger, pressure control which is temperature compensated, as shown in the lower panel of Fig. 7A, energy savings via a smart sleep mode (e.g., sleeps after 5 minutes of inaction), programmable switch steps (e.g., 1 -5 pressures, or 1 -7 pressures available, set by a user), smart PWM pump control, diagnostics provided on the printed circuit board, the use of MOSFET technology for the output, and a two- color LED as a systemic front/signaling system.
• a smart sleep mode e.g., sleeps after 5 minutes of inaction
• programmable switch steps e.g., 1 -5 pressures, or 1 -7 pressures available, set by a user
• smart PWM pump control e.g., diagnostics provided on the printed circuit board, the use of MOSFET technology for the output, and a
• Temperature compensated pressurization allows for the use of higher pressures at lower temperatures, and vice versa, which obviates the need for extra solvents and thinners, for example, in paint, and always matches the system pressure used for the Flair® container to the then prevailing temperature. By avoiding solvents, more actual paint can be provided in every Flair® container, thus further optimizing paint delivery.
• Such a heating element can, for example, be provided in the container holder, or along the conduit tube(s), or for example, within the nozzle, as may be most appropriate in given design contexts.
• Fig. 8 depicts details of pressure switch 830 and interactions of pump 850 and solenoid valve 840 therewith according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• pump 850 starts to run to deliver more air until the new set air pressure value is reached.
• solenoid valve 840 releases air, reducing the air pressure to a lower value than desired, and pump 850 starts to run until the new set value is reached.
• Fig. 9 depicts various display sequences of an exemplary power pack LED indicator and their respective exemplary meanings according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. These can include, for example: Charging: LED lights up red continuously
• Dead battery LED lights up red every 1 sec.
• Fig. 10 depicts exemplary dimensions and form factor of the exemplary power pack of Figs. 7-9
• Fig. 1 1 depicts exemplary dimensions and form factor of an exemplary container holder assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• an opening for paint tube 1 1 10 an electric connector 1 120, pinch valve 1 130, belt clip 1 140 and door clip 1 150.
• Fig. 1 1 A depicts exemplary pinch valve features according to exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• pinch valve 100 can be, for example, the basic valve which allows paint or other dispensed liquid to flow from the Flair® container 120 out through the paint tube or conduit 1 10.
• an exemplary pinch valve can have various functionalities. In a first exemplary embodiment it can have a magnetic coil using high energy. There is one maximum pressure on the hose, it can have large dimensions, a mechanical fail safe, and can, for example, operate on 14 volts DC. In an alternate exemplary embodiment of such valve now in development, an exemplary pinch valve can operate on low energy, can have the pressure on the hose electronically controlled, can have small dimensions, can have both electrical and mechanical fail safe features, and can operate on 6 volts DC.
• Fig. 12 depicts details of an exemplary container holder emergency button according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown, in case of an
• Figs. 13-14 depict various steps in opening the exemplary container holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• a first step as shown in Fig. 13, one pulls open the cover clip.
• the air release 1320 pushes open the front cover a bit, and air is let out by the air release.
• the air lock 1310 still locks the door from fully opening.
• air is let off by the air release 1420 until the air pressure reaches a safe value at which one can fully open the front cover.
• the air lock 1410 then drops down (shown in the right panel in a dropped down state) when this safe value is reached.
• the front cover can then be fully opened, granting access to the Flair® bottle.
• Fig. 15 depicts exemplary dimensional detail of a container holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• the device is portable, and moreover wearable by a user.
• Fig. 16 depicts exemplary closures according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and their interoperation with the conduit tube 1640.
• bottle cap plug 1610 Shown is bottle cap plug 1610, M14 nut 1620, and 4-Lock cap 1630.
• a 4-Lock cap can easily be automatically be closed or opened, such as in manufacture and/or filling servicing, inasmuch as a machine can grab it from any angle, and manipulate it with a small turn. This obviates the need for careful registration of the bottle and cap in one position.
• Inserted through the hole at the center of these pieces is an exemplary 2 meter paint tube 1640, whose lower end is attached to the actual Flair® bottle, and secured by bottle paint tube plug 1650.
• Fig. 17 depicts an exemplary tube used to conduct paint form the container holder to the paint brush according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Figs. 18- 19 depict structural details and functionality of a novel electric brush holder according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• the brush holder is provided with a protective layer 1910 and aPCB housing 1950. Inside or underneath these outer structures is provided a Detection Zone Conductive Layer 1960, a non-conducting Brush Holder Frame 1970, and an Activation Zone Conductive Layer 1980.
• the detection zone and the activation zone send signals to PCB 1990, which can be interpreted to recognize when both of them are being touched by a user.
• Figs. 20 illustrate various stages or configurations of the exemplary electric brush holder of Fig. 19.
• the electric brush is based upon capacitive sensing.
• each of the two conductive layers 2060 and 2080 creates a small electrostatic field.
• Fig. 20B shows the situation where neither the detection zone nor the activation zone is touched.
• Fig. 20 C shows where the electrostatic field of the detection zone is distorted/touched, but the activation zone is not touched.
• the electrostatic fields of both the detection zone and the activation zone is distorted/touched.
• the PCB recognizes this, and signals the pinch valve, or other valving system as may be used, to open.
• Figs. 21 depict further electrical details of an exemplary capacitive handle according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• the protective layer, the isolation layer and the conductive layer can be made by assembling the various layers or, for example, by using over molding techniques.
• the capacitive sensitivity can, for example, be controlled by software.
• the isolation layer isolates the conductive layer from any electrostatic
• the layer needs to create a shield, and such a shield preferably can be, for example, air or a layer with built-in air pockets such as, for example, a honeycomb structure. It is noted that a solid plastic core layer is generally not a good choice for such an insulation layer.
• Interior to the isolation layer 2130 can be, for example, a ground layer 2140, and interior to the ground layer 2140 can be paint tube 2050 carrying paint or some other liquid to be dispensed using the exemplary system.
• the capacitive handle can use three wires and be capable of RS-232 standard diagnostics.
• Fig. 23 depicts exemplary brush head interfaces according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention
• Figs. 24-29 depict various stages in assembly of a paint brush and tube according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Fig. 24 illustrates pushing a paint tube through a capacitive handle as shown in Figs. 19-21 .
• a fixer can be slid over the paint tube, and as shown in Fig. 26, a head can be affixed to the tube, and the fixer can then be slid forward to secure the tube in the head as shown in Fig. 27.
• Fig. 28 shows the tube with now affixed head pushed back into the capacitive handle, and finally a paint brush head can be connected, for example in a bayonet or other connection, to the handle with tube and tube head assembly, as shown in Fig. 29.
• Figs. 30-31 depict exemplary Flair® bottles and caps for use according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• the 4-lock bottle cap 3010 described above mates with the bottle's finished neck 3020, which is provided with four lead-ins and locks, as shown.
• Fig. 31 depicts exemplary dimensions that can be used for an exemplary Flair bottle in exemplary embodiments of the present invention, but as noted above, this all depends upon the size of Flair® bottle desired for a given application, dispensed liquid and context..
• Fig. 32 illustrates various exemplary packaging options. These options address the technical problem that conventional paint color filling machines require a wider neck.
• paint or pigment dispensed form a standard paint color machine such as found in hardware stores and paint sellers, can fall on an "umbrella” type structure, and after depositing the color or pigment on the umbrella all of the colorant can be manually pushed into the bottle by pushing the umbrella into the bottle 3220, and thus mix in the paint.
• the tube in the "umbrella” can be used to press the umbrella into the bottle. It is noted that various shapes of the "umbrella” structure can be used 3230, as long as a wider surface is provided that can be folded and pushed through the exemplary bottle neck.
• the tube can be separate from the umbrella, and at the end of pigmentization of the bottle, it can also be pushed into the bottle so as to capture the pigment remaining inside it as well.
• Fig. 33 illustrates a liquid/air mix generated using a standard Flair® system.
• a standard Flair® Bottle 120 can be used with a liquid inside to be dispensed. The liquid is indicated in violet and there is a single Flair® inner container. Between the inner container and the outer container is a displacement medium, for example, air, shown in blue.
• the inner container is fixed to the outer container at the bottom, as described, for example, in United States Published Patent Application No. 201 1/0036451 ("Liquid Dispensing Flair®").
• any container holder 171 can be used that connects a pressure source, such as delivered by any type of power pack 181 , to the gap between the layers of the Flair® container. Additionally, there can be an air conduit between the top of the space between the inner container and the outer container where air between the layers can be passed to any type of nozzle being used 161 , as shown at 3310.
• the conduit tube from the Flair® bottle 120 to the nozzle 161 is actually a dual tube, one for liquid and one for air, and at the nozzle 161 the liquid and air can be mixed into a spray or foam. This can be done using, for example, various technologies shown in U.S.
• nozzle 161 can be any type of electronically or mechanically operated nozzle and such a nozzle can be designed to mix the liquid and air 3320 to the desired ratio for a spray, for a foam, as a function of liquid viscosity and air pressure, etc., all as provided in said patent applications, under common assignment herewith.
• Fig. 34 shows a variation of the system as shown in Fig. 33 where everything is essentially the same as in Fig.
• Fig. 35 shows a variation to the system of Fig. 34 where everything is the same except for the fact that instead of a conventional Flair® container, a Piston Flair® container 121 is used.
• the inner container is not connected at the bottom to the outer container, as in standard Flair®, but rather the inner container is partially glued or adhered to the upper portion of the outer container.
• the freely moving bottom of the inner container moves similarly to a piston and ultimately folds on itself, squeezing the last bit of the liquid (shown in violet) outside the top of the Flair® container.
• the operation of the system shown in Fig. 35 is the same as that shown in Fig. 34.
• Fig. 36 shows yet an additional variation according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention where a Multi-Layer Flair® bottle is used as the source of the products to be dispensed.
• Multi Layer Flair® also known as Multi Liquid Flair®, involves a nesting of Flair® containers, as noted above. Instead of having just one inner container, there is an outer container and multiple inner containers provided within it. As shown in Fig. 36, for example, there are two inner containers, but the Multi Layer Flair® concept can easily be extended to even more than two layers, including three or more.
• a Multi Layer Flair® Container 123 contains a first inner layer with Liquid A (shown in violet) 124, a second inner layer with Liquid B (shown in yellow) 125 and then an anti- collapse tube 126 which prevents the liquid from being blocked by an uncontrollable collapsed bag, as described above.
• the first inner layer with Liquid A 124 is shown in violet
• the second inner layer with Liquid B 125 shown in yellow is nested wholly within it.
• the second inner layer 125 is therefore coaxial with and wholly contained inside first inner layer 124.
• Fig. 37 depicts an exemplary system that combines the Multi-Layer functionalities of Fig. 36 with the liquid/air mix techniques shown in Figs. 34 and 35.
• the Multi Layer Flair® Bottle 123 with the first inner layer 124 with liquid A, the second inner layer 125 with Liquid B, and the anti-collapse tube 126.
• the air is supplied by any power pack 181 through any container holder 171 and such container holder 171 holds the Multi Layer Flair® Bottle 123.
• the air present in the gap between the first inner container 124 and the outer container of the Multi Layer Flair® Bottle can be used to pass to nozzle 161 , via passage 3710.
• Fig. 38 depicts the exact same system except that here (as in Figs. 34-35) the source of the air which is sent to the nozzle is not a by-pass conduit 3710 as shown in Fig. 37 but a separate air line 3810 running from power pack 181 as shown in Fig. 34 and Fig. 35.
• three sub-conduits 3830 are sent to nozzle 161 which mixes the multiple liquid layers and the air into a desired mix at dispensing time.
• Fig. 39 shows various exemplary tube configurations which can be used in single tube, double tube or multiple tube applications. Also shown are tubes with integrated electric wiring which can be used to connect, for example, the nozzle or paint brush or like with the pinch valve in a hard wired connection, as described above. It is particularly noted that the multiple hole tube shown in the upper left image of Fig. 38 can be used in exemplary beverage dispensing application illustrated in Figs. 40 and 41 . It can be used to slow down the flow of a liquid.
• the center right image has a barrier inside it, which can be an oxygen barrier, a light barrier, or a solvent barrier when dispensing an active or aromatic liquid.
• Container as shown in the example of Fig. 40 can be used.
• a container can be very similar to that shown in Fig. 3A, and can be filled with a beverage, such as for example, beer.
• the beverage can be dispensed by means of a container holder which is connected to an air source.
• the air source can be a pump which is manually operated by human hand or foot, or can be a Power pack such as shown, for example, in the various exemplary embodiments described above.
• the beer is sent through a multiple hole tube such as shown in the upper left panel of Fig. 39 for the reasons described in said Multiple Canal Beverage Tubes patent application, including, for example, slowing down the flow of a higher temperature beverage so as to maintain laminar flow and better control.
• a system as shown in Fig. 41 can be exactly the same type of system as shown in Figs. 2-4 except that instead of dispensing paint we now dispense beverages.
• the nozzle shown schematically would not be a nozzle at all but it would be a capacitively controlled handle adapted to beverage dispensing.
• a set of small, convenient, self contained dispensing devices can be used, with pre-filled bottles having various beverages, e.g., beers and sodas, and such a set of dispensing devices can replace the cumbersome carbonated beverage systems now in use.
• Figs. 42-50 illustrate an alternate exemplary embodiment of the present invention using a harness system to assist in supporting the weight of an exemplary "dispensing gun.”
• the exemplary harness system can be used with such "dispensing gun” or, for example, with various alternate exemplary embodiments of the present invention, as next described.
• Fig. 42 a variant to the Paint Flair® system described and illustrated above is shown.
• the pump section of the power pack is separated from the liquid delivery system and placed on the floor in more or less in a stationary position.
• Connecting the power pack to the liquid delivery system is a long tube similar to those that carry compressed air at construction job sites.
• the compressed air tube inputs to a gun, as shown a paint gun, and the gun contains a Flair® bottle with a prefilled color of paint, as described above.
• the gun is, as before, supported mostly by the shoulders, torso and legs of a user, except that here the Flair® bottle is not worn, but is held in the gun, the weight of which is supported by a harness.
• there is another gun which has a cartridge in it of grey colored paint and the individual is holding a red paint cartridge.
• Figs. 43 and 44 illustrate side and prospective views of two alternate versions of the exemplary harness system of Fig. 42.
• Fig. 43 presents a side view of the harness system which essentially has two subsystems.
• the harness system itself, which is used to support the weight of the gun, and the gun system which is used to dispense the liquid.
• the tube or hose connecting the stationary (or moveable on wheels) pump to the gun and at first connects to a slot on the waist band, or waist belt, of the harness and then it is sized down to a small coiled flexible tube which inputs to the back of the gun itself.
• Fig. 44 shows an exemplary two shoulder harness version.
• the benefits of the two- shoulder harness are that the weight is divided on both shoulders of a user, and the cost or negative of this is that it takes slightly longer to put on the harness.
• a spring loaded cord holder or reel which pulls on the gun and supports it at whatever height the user decides to hold it.
• Fig. 45 shows a one shoulder harness version of the exemplary harness of Fig. 43.
• the weight is only on one shoulder which may be a slight negative to some users; however, the positive feature is that it is faster to put on and remove the harness.
• the reel as shown on the right panel, and the connection to the stationary pump, are the same.
• Fig. 46 shows details of how the reel cord is held in the shoulder strap by virtue of carabine hooks. These prevent the cord from sliding out of the shoulder strap, for example.
• Fig. 47 shows a locking device at the forward edge of the cord some distance from the hook by which it hooks into the gun and this stopping cord and the locking mechanism is done to prevent the reel system from completely and fully reeling the cord to the back of the user. This keeps the gun hanging from the front of a user.
• Figs. 48-50 provide details of the liquid delivery gun system. As mentioned this is similar to the Flair® bottle or Flair® container held in a container holder as describe and illustrated above except for the fact that the gun system of Figs. 42 to 50, and in particular Figs. 48 to 50, provides the bottle with the liquid to be dispensed to be held by the user's hands, albeit supported by his body, and the Flair® bottle is maintained in essentially a horizontal position. As shown in Fig. 48, the gun hangs in the reel system of the harness, therefore the effective weight of the gun in the user's hand is considerably lighter.
• Fig. 48 illustrates placing a Flair® container in the gun assembly.
• the easy installation of the Flair® container in the gun as shown in the two steps are (i) the valve which mates with the air pressure inlet at the back of the gun is first slid over that inlet, and then (ii) the entire bottle is swiveled downward such that the nozzle fits in the nozzle holder at the distal portion of the gun.
• an exemplary trigger operates to do two things. First, it allows air pressure into the back of the Flair® bottle which allows the liquid to be dispensed, and also controls the valve in the nozzle.
• a valve can be provided either at the top of a Flair® bottle, as shown in the figures 1 -38, or at the nozzle or dispensing end, as shon here and in Figs. 40-41 . Either possibility can be used as appropriate in given contexts.
• a Flair® type bottle with the pressure and pump operating in reverse can be used to suck up a liquid, such as for example, in clean up and disposal of bio-contaminated, or other contaminated or waste liquids.
• a given liquid is already contaminated, and needs to be collected in a clean way, where the liquid is isolated or separated from the outside environment.
• a dispensing system is similar to a dispensing system.
• both are essentially the same: a Flair® bottle with a nozzle connected via a flexible hose. With this nozzle you can reach every point on a surface or location, when desired, with the right amount of content on the right place, or its opposite, sucking up the content as desired.
• a vacuum nozzle is used instead of the regular nozzles described above. For suction a flow is needed.
• Figs. 51 -58 illustrate various exemplary performs and their methods of assembly for the Multi Layer Flair ⁇ bottle described above, used to dispense two or more separate liquids, or separate components of a compound liquid, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Fig. 51 shows example views of the component layers of such a preform, namely, as fully assembled 51 10, the outside layer 5120, the inside layer 5130, and the third layer 5140.
• Inside layer 5130 has a doubly protruding pin, for attachment to each of the outside layer and the inside layer.
• the second liquid is provided ultimately in the third layer bag, made from third layer 5140, and the first liquid is provided between the third layer bag and the inside bag, made from inside layer 5130.
• perform view 5150 is a cross section of assembled view 51 10.
• the third layer (green) is initially molded so as to protrude vertically from the top of the second or inside layer 5130, as described below.
• Fig. 52 depicts cross sections of the exemplary Multi Layer Flair perform of Fig. 51 as fully assembled, but before being blown to its final bottle shape, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• 5210 shows such assembled layers
• 5220 depicts exemplary welding techniques, where a weld 5227 is used at the junction of the outside and inside layers at the bottom, and where spin welds 5225 are used to attach the outside and inside layers at the top, and the third layer to the top pin of the inside layer at the bottom, as shown.
• Fig. 53 depicts the exemplary Multi Layer Flair perform of Fig. 51 as prepared for blow molding 5310 and after blowing 5320 according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. As shown at 5330 slides keep the third layer in position (top portion elevated) when blow molding.
• Fig. 54 depicts the exemplary Multi Layer Flair perform of Fig. 53 as blown to form a bottle, before 5410, and after 5420 pushing down the (interior) third layer according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• forming the third layer so as to protrude vertically, and then, after blowing, pushing the third layer (now a bag) down in this fashion creates a 100% sure opening in the neck.
• the neck is stiff and the bottle thus goes from stiff to flexible as one moves downwards. There is thus a risk that the stiff part of the bottle in the neck will block the opening.
• the pushing can be done, for example, while the bottle is cold or warm.
• the bottle neck is stiff, with this stiff neck one can push the neck and the wider part of the bag down (this beginning of the wider part of the bag is a little bit stiff, as the bag transitions from rigid to flexible) and one obtains an opening for the liquid as shown in the space between the third layer (green) and the inner layer (blue) in the blown bottle after pushing down the third layer 5420.
• Fig. 55 depicts exemplary techniques for filling the exemplary Multi Layer Flair perform of Fig. 54 (after pushing in the third layer) according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• Liquid 1 pink arrows
• Fig. 56 depicts the exemplary Multi Layer Flair perform of Fig.
• Dispensing the two liquids 5620 occurs as compressed air enters the bottom of the Flair bottle, pressurizes the space between the outside layer and the inner layer, which then pushed Liquid 1 (pink arrow) and Liquid 2 (yellow arrow) out of the bottle.
• Fig. 57 depicts an alternate perform for an exemplary Multi Layer Flair bottle according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, without the vertical protrusion of the third layer, and thus somewhat easier to manufacture.
• Fig. 57 shows example views of the component layers of such a preform, namely, as fully assembled 5710, the outside layer 5720, the inside layer 5730, and the third layer 5740.
• Inside layer 5730 has a doubly protruding pin at the bottom, for attachment to each of the outside layer and the inside layer.
• Inside layer 5730 also has ribs which provide space between the inner layer 5730 and the third layer 5740.
• perform view 5750 is a cross section of assembled view 5710.
• Fig. 58 depicts cross sections of the exemplary Multi Layer Flair perform of Fig. 57 as assembled according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and depicts essentially identical features as shown in Fig. 52.
• Fig. 59 depicts an alternate integrated bottle container and power pack, wearable on a user's back, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• the bottle holder 5910 includes an integrated Power pack 5920, which can be, for example, removable and rechargeable.
• an integrated Power pack 5920 which can be, for example, removable and rechargeable.
• solenoid valve 5930 which has a safety feature to the effect that if there should be a stop of the electronics, or some other cause of system failure, the solenoid valve will go open automatically and depressurize the system.
• Fig. 60 depicts exemplary personalizations and customizations of an exemplary brush handle according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
• a touch screen slide actuator 6010 for controlling the system pressure, or for example, a rotary switch 6060.
• Emergency button 6020 can be provided in various locales, as a use is most comfortable with.
• detection surfaces 6030 there can be detection surfaces 6030, and then various locations of the activation buttons B1 , B2 and B3 6040. This reflects the understanding of the inventors that painters and other craftsmen are used to, and come to expect, controls in certain convenient (for them) places. Novel electronic paint brushes such as disclosed herein can easily be accomodated to their habits and expectations.

Landscapes

• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
• Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
• Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
• Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
• Coating Apparatus (AREA)
• Details Or Accessories Of Spraying Plant Or Apparatus (AREA)
• Nozzles (AREA)
• Spray Control Apparatus (AREA)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Publications (2)

Family

ID=47996728

Family Applications (1)

Country Status (9)

Families Citing this family (7)

Family Cites Families (11)

• 2012
  • 2012-09-26 EP EP12836467.6A patent/EP2760759A4/de not_active Withdrawn
  • 2012-09-26 MX MX2014003611A patent/MX2014003611A/es not_active Application Discontinuation
  • 2012-09-26 RU RU2014117023/12A patent/RU2014117023A/ru not_active Application Discontinuation
  • 2012-09-26 WO PCT/US2012/057401 patent/WO2013049260A2/en active Application Filing
  • 2012-09-26 CN CN201280057315.9A patent/CN104039664A/zh active Pending
  • 2012-09-26 BR BR112014007139A patent/BR112014007139A2/pt not_active IP Right Cessation
  • 2012-09-26 AU AU2012316065A patent/AU2012316065A1/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2012-09-26 JP JP2014533697A patent/JP2014528832A/ja active Pending
• 2014
  • 2014-04-25 ZA ZA2014/03097A patent/ZA201403097B/en unknown

Also Published As

Similar Documents

Legal Events