US20060201975A1 - Microdispensing pump - Google Patents
Microdispensing pump Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060201975A1 US20060201975A1 US11/436,297 US43629706A US2006201975A1 US 20060201975 A1 US20060201975 A1 US 20060201975A1 US 43629706 A US43629706 A US 43629706A US 2006201975 A1 US2006201975 A1 US 2006201975A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- pump
- overcap
- pump body
- dispensing cap
- bead
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
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- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 claims description 12
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- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/0005—Components or details
- B05B11/0027—Means for neutralising the actuation of the sprayer ; Means for preventing access to the sprayer actuation means
- B05B11/0032—Manually actuated means located downstream the discharge nozzle for closing or covering it, e.g. shutters
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
- B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
- B05B11/1042—Components or details
- B05B11/1052—Actuation means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/0005—Components or details
- B05B11/0027—Means for neutralising the actuation of the sprayer ; Means for preventing access to the sprayer actuation means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
- B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
- B05B11/1042—Components or details
- B05B11/1052—Actuation means
- B05B11/1053—Actuation means combined with means, other than pressure, for automatically opening a valve during actuation; combined with means for automatically removing closures or covers from the discharge nozzle during actuation
- B05B11/1054—Actuation means combined with means, other than pressure, for automatically opening a valve during actuation; combined with means for automatically removing closures or covers from the discharge nozzle during actuation the valve being located upstream of an outlet valve
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
- B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
- B05B11/1042—Components or details
- B05B11/1059—Means for locking a pump or its actuation means in a fixed position
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
- B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
- B05B11/1001—Piston pumps
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B11/00—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use
- B05B11/01—Single-unit hand-held apparatus in which flow of contents is produced by the muscular force of the operator at the moment of use characterised by the means producing the flow
- B05B11/10—Pump arrangements for transferring the contents from the container to a pump chamber by a sucking effect and forcing the contents out through the dispensing nozzle
- B05B11/1001—Piston pumps
- B05B11/1023—Piston pumps having an outlet valve opened by deformation or displacement of the piston relative to its actuating stem
Definitions
- Microdispensing pumps are known in the prior art, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,956; WIPO PCT Published Application No. WO 01/14245; and related applications. The entire disclosures of these references are incorporated by reference herein.
- microdispensing pumps are known in the prior art, problems still exist with their operation and storage. For example, with a microdispensing pump used in an ophthalmic application, ingress of dirt into the pump's nozzle is a major concern. With prior art eye dropper bottle designs, a threaded overcap is typically provided which is formed to sufficiently thread onto a dropper bottle body to press against and form a tight mechanical seal against the dispensing aperture of the dropper bottle.
- microdispensing pump Different features of a microdispensing pump are described herein which may be used in various combinations, or each singularly, and also may be used in various pump applications, not limited to microdispensing pumps. Some of the features are particularly well-suited for applications where accurate dosing is desired, such as with ophthalmic applications.
- a pump including a plurality of cantilevered fingers; a piston is disposed to slidably move at least partially within the fingers; and, a stop member is at least partially disposed about the piston, the stop member and the fingers being fixed to the pump body such that movement of the piston results in relative movement between the fingers and the stop member.
- the stop member is located to be contacted by the fingers upon a predetermined extent of relative movement between the stop member and the fingers, with the fingers flexing upon contacting the stop member such that the fingers yieldingly inhibit movement of the piston. Accordingly, a predetermined amount of force is required to overcome the resistance provided by the fingers. In this manner, sufficient momentum must be required to actuate the pump to ensure delivery of a proper dose, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,956.
- a pump having an overcap formed to removably mount onto a pump body, the overcap defining an at least liquid-tight seal with the pump body at locations spaced from a nozzle on the pump body.
- the overcap can be used to restrict the introduction of dirt, debris and other contaminants to the nozzle of the pump, with the pump not being in use.
- the pump can be provided with a sufficiently proper seal which can withstand hazardous conditions, including those rigorous conditions imposed by CCIT (container closure integrity testing).
- a pump having at least one bead protruding from a pump body in proximity to at least one edge of a label mounted to the pump body.
- a label having instructions and/or warnings
- inadvertent or improper removal of the label is highly undesired.
- removal of the label can be restricted.
- a pump is provided with a pump body including a dispensing cap with a nozzle, the dispensing cap being movable to actuate the pump.
- at least one channel is formed in the dispensing cap and at least one rib extends into each of the channels of the dispensing cap.
- the ribs each have a sufficient length to at least extend substantially through the respective channel along full extent of movement of the dispensing cap. With the rib-channel interface, sideward movement of the dispensing cap can be limited. This is particularly desirable where straight-line application of force to the dispensing cap is relied on to actuate the pump.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views of a pump which may use one or more aspects of the subject invention
- FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the latch fingers and ribs of the subject invention.
- FIG. 4 is a similar view to FIG. 3 , with the dispensing cap being in a depressed condition;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a pump having an overcap mounted thereto;
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged sectional view of section 7 of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 8 is a schematic showing a label disposed about the pump.
- FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a lower portion of the label and protective beads disposed in proximity thereto.
- a representative pump 10 is depicted, which may include one or more of the aspects of the subject invention.
- the pump 10 is formed for dispensing fluid, preferably ophthalmic medication.
- the pump 10 may be formed with any configuration; for illustrative purposes, the pump 10 includes a pump body which may include a handle 12 (which may house a fluid reservoir), a neck portion 14 , a dispensing cap 16 disposed within the neck portion 14 , and a flip cap 18 hingedly mounted to the neck portion 14 via a hinge 20 .
- a nozzle 21 is formed in the dispensing cap 16 to dispense the fluid upon actuation of the pump; the actuation preferably being achieved by depressing the dispensing cap 16 and causing downward travel thereof.
- the pump 10 is preferably of a lift-pump type formed in accordance with the teachings set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,956 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/123,390, but may also be of other pump types, such as a pre-compression type (formed in accordance with the teachings of WIPO PCT Published Application No. WO 01/14245), submersible pump type (such as that shown in WIPO PCT Published Application No. WO 02/068317), and any other form known to those skilled in the art.
- flexible latch fingers 30 are provided which are circumferentially disposed about a poppet 32 , having a stem 34 and a head 36 , and a slidable, tubular piston 38 .
- a check valve element 40 is disposed to control the fluid dosing from the pump 10 and is controlled by spring arms 42 , as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/123,390.
- the head 36 of the poppet 32 and the piston 38 coact to form a shut-off valve, also, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/123,390.
- a tubular element 44 extends downwardly from the spring arms 42 which terminates in an annular shoulder stop 46 that circumscribes the piston 38 .
- the shoulder stop 46 is fixed to the dispensing cap 16 so as to move in concert therewith.
- the shoulder stop 46 can be formed on any element fixed to the dispensing cap 16 or unitarily formed with the dispensing cap 16 .
- the piston 38 may travel its full extent and cause actuation of the pump 10 —this actuation being achieved with sufficient momentum to ensure a proper dose of fluid is delivered.
- the movement of the piston 38 causes a dose to be administered through the nozzle 21 .
- the piston 38 may be used to generate pressure in fluid in the pump 10 in any manner known to those skilled in the art to cause dose administration and may be formed with any known configuration (i.e., not necessarily tubular as shown in the Figures).
- the latch fingers 30 will not yield until a sufficient force is applied to cause the latch fingers 30 to bend radially outwardly away from the piston 38 .
- the latch fingers 30 are cantilevered to a unitary component 50 of the pump body of the pump 10 .
- the dispensing cap 16 is an actuator of the pump 10 .
- the subject invention can be used in other pump configurations to restrict movement of an actuator, where, for example, an actuator that is separate from its dispensing aperture (e.g., an actuator which is separate from a nozzle).
- the shoulder stop 46 is annular, but may also be discontinuous. It is also preferred that the latch fingers 30 be evenly spaced about the piston 38 .
- the shoulder stop 46 can be formed with discontinuous limited surfaces for limited engagement with one or more of the latch fingers 30 .
- the amount of resistance to downward movement of the shoulder stop 46 (and, thus, to downward movement of the dispensing cap 16 ) generated by the latch fingers 30 is a function of several factors, including, but not limited to: the constituent material of the latch fingers 30 ; the physical configuration of the latch fingers 30 (shape; inherent columnar stiffness; strength of cantilevered connection); and interaction between the enlarged ends 48 and the shoulder stop 46 (angle of contact; shapes; degree of friction). If insufficient resistance is provided by the latch fingers 30 , the latch fingers 30 will not ensure sufficient momentum is imparted to the pump 10 upon actuation. If, however, excessive resistance is provided, the latch fingers 30 may buckle or be damaged (e.g., enlarged ends 48 could be scratched), resulting in inconsistent and unpredictable operation.
- the angle of contact between an end surface 45 of the shoulder stop 46 and top surfaces 47 of the latch fingers 30 (as represented by angle ⁇ in FIG. 3 ) be 10 degrees or less, more preferably 0 degrees.
- the end surface 45 and/or the top surfaces 47 may be tapered.
- the surface finishes of the end surface 45 and the top surfaces 47 be dissimilar.
- the latch fingers 30 and the shoulder stop 46 be formed from dissimilar materials.
- the shoulder stop 46 (which may be unitarily formed with the tubular element 44 ) may be formed from polyethylene, whereas, the latch fingers 30 (which may be formed unitarily with the component 50 ) may be formed from polypropylene, or vice versa.
- the latch fingers 30 be formed, for example, by injection molding, into a shape which does not correspond to its undeflected state, as shown in FIG. 3 . Rather, upon formation, the latch fingers 30 are bent or forced into the desired, undeflected state with the constituent material of the latch fingers 30 not having been fully solidified (e.g., upon being removed from a mold). In this manner, the latch fingers 30 are biaxially stressed with the microscopic structure thereof being aligned to impart memory to the latch fingers 30 themselves. This memory both encourages the latch fingers 30 to return more consistently to their undeflected position and to better resist stresses and strains of repeated operation. This same manufacturing technique is preferably used with the spring arms 42 . It is preferred that, in undeflected states, the latch fingers 30 bear against the outer surface of the piston 38 , and the spring arms 42 bear against the check valve element 40 .
- an overcap 52 may be provided which mounts onto, and forms a seal with, the handle 12 of the pump body.
- the overcap 52 completely encompasses and protects the dispensing cap 16 , and all components thereabout, including the nozzle 21 . With a seal being formed at locations spaced from the dispensing cap 16 and the nozzle 21 , the ingress of dirt and debris thereinto may be minimized. It is preferred that the overcap 52 form at least a liquid-tight, and, preferably, a fluid-tight seal with the pump body.
- the overcap 52 is preferably unitarily formed and has a cup shape. Edge 54 of the overcap 52 is placed into engagement with the handle 12 upon the overcap 52 being mounted to the pump body of the pump 10 . With reference to FIG. 7 , the edge 54 is preferably formed to flare outwardly and to terminate in at least one retention bead 56 . The shape of the edge 54 preferably matches that of the handle 12 of the pump body. At least two beads 58 , 59 protrude from an external surface of the handle 12 of the pump body which are positioned to engage the overcap 52 above the large bead 56 .
- the lower bead 58 is a retention bead formed to interferently engage the retention bead 56 upon upward movement of the overcap 52 to inhibit removal of the overcap 52 .
- the retention bead 56 extends inwardly of the lower bead 58 .
- the upper bead 59 is formed to interferently engage an inner surface 55 of the overcap 52 to define a fluid-tight/liquid-tight seal. (The outline of the upper bead 59 is shown to overlap the edge 54 to represent this interferent engagement.)
- the overcap 52 may be formed to be stressed in a mounted position to enhance the seal's integrity such as by defining one or more contact points 61 between the inner surface 55 and the handle 12 .
- the upper bead 59 and the contact points 61 define redundant seals in giving the pump 10 /overcap 52 assembly the liquid-tight/fluid-tight seal. The strength of the seal may be adjusted for the pump's application; for example, where some gas permeability may be desired, a fluid-tight seal is not appropriate.
- the contact points 61 can be defined as a self-holding taper fit (e.g., a Morse-taper type fit) which not only defines an at least liquid-tight seal, but also provides holding force for the overcap 52 to the pump body. With sufficient holding force and/or sealing integrity, the retention bead 56 , the lower bead 58 and/or the upper bead 59 need not be provided. It is preferred that the inner surface 55 and the handle 12 define a taper angle in the range of 0°-7°, more preferably 1°-2.5°, at the contact points 61 to define the self-holding taper fit.
- a self-holding taper fit e.g., a Morse-taper type fit
- the constituent material, preferably plastic, of the overcap 52 be resilient to allow the edge 54 to expand outwardly upon mounting the overcap 52 so that the retention bead 56 may pass over the beads 58 , 59 .
- the material must have sufficient memory to ensure sufficiently tight engagement of the bead 59 with the overcap 52 .
- cooperating shoulders 60 and 62 be formed on the overcap 52 and the handle 12 of the pump body, respectively, to limit the downward movement of the overcap 52 , thereby allowing for proper positioning thereof.
- the pump 10 may be packaged with a clear or printed-on label 64 .
- the printed-on label 64 is shrunk onto (“shrink wrapped” onto) the pump 10 .
- the label 64 preferably extends the full length of the pump 10 /overcap 52 assembly to provide an additional holding force for maintaining the overcap 52 on the pump 10 and to indicate any tampering with the pump 10 prior to initial use.
- a weakened portion 66 such as a tear line defined by an array of perforations, is defined just below the overcap 52 , so that upon forcibly removing the overcap 52 , the label 64 is severed into an upper portion 64 a and a lower portion 64 b.
- the lower portion 64 b of the label 64 may contain instructions and other vital information, such as warnings, relating to the fluid that is to be dispensed by the pump 10 .
- protective beads 68 and 70 are disposed in proximity to the upper and lower edges of the lower portion 64 b. The protective beads 68 and 70 limit a person's ability to pry or otherwise insert an object or a fingernail under the lower portion 64 b and cause removal thereof.
- the protective beads 68 and 70 extend continuously about the pump 10 and are coextensive with the lower portion 64 b. It is preferred that the upper protective bead 68 be positioned adjacent to the weakened region 66 of the label 64 (when intact), and also in proximity to the edge 54 of the overcap 52 ( FIG. 9 ).
- one of the protective beads 68 , 70 may be provided.
- the label 64 can be wholly formed to be disposed in proximity to one or both of the protective beads 68 , 70 (e.g., formed only as the lower portion 64 b ).
- the label 64 including any part thereof, can be affixed to the pump 10 in any manner known to those skilled in the art, including being adhered thereto.
- the dispensing cap 16 is mounted to move with the piston 38 to actuate the pump 10 , such as via the tubular element 44 . Because of the slender construction of the piston 38 and the tubular element 44 , and because these elements are movable, the dispensing cap 16 may have some lateral instability. Furthermore, because of manufacturing tolerances, a clearance C is between the dispensing cap 16 and the neck portion 14 . Accordingly, the dispensing cap 16 may move laterally during actuation, for example under eccentric loading, and float into the clearance C.
- At least one rib 72 extends from a side wall 74 (preferably, the side wall 74 is a portion of the neck portion 14 ) of the pump body of the pump 10 so as to engage or come into close proximity with the dispensing cap 16 .
- a plurality of circumferentially spaced ribs 72 are utilized.
- the dispensing cap 16 being tapered (tapered skirt 75 ), as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , lower portions of the ribs 72 are in closer engagement with the dispensing cap 16 than upper portions. With the ribs 72 , float of the dispensing cap 16 can be greatly minimized or even altogether eliminated, resulting in generally straight downward movement of the dispensing cap 16 during actuation.
- the ribs 72 may engage an outer surface 73 of the dispensing cap 16 or, more preferably, extend into corresponding channels 76 formed in the dispensing cap 16 . It is preferred that the ribs 72 have generally straight outer faces 78 (0 degrees of draft) and that a clearance of 0.001 to 0.005 inches be defined between the ribs 72 and the associated opposing surface (the outer surface 73 /the channels 76 ).
- the dispensing cap 16 has a range of movement in actuating the pump 10 ( FIG. 3 is an at-rest position of the dispensing cap 16 ; FIG. 4 is a depressed position of the cap 16 ).
- the ribs 72 are formed with sufficient length to at least extend substantially along the dispensing cap 16 for full extent of movement of the dispensing cap 16 ; where the channels 76 are provided, the ribs 72 are formed with sufficient length to at least extend substantially through the length of the respective channel 76 along full extent of movement of the dispensing cap 16 .
- the ribs 72 are substantially coextensive with the respective channels 76 . As such, the ribs 72 act to limit lateral movement of the dispensing cap 16 throughout its range of movement.
- this aspect can be used with various pump actuators and/or pump configurations.
- the ribs 72 may be formed on the dispensing cap 16 , and the channels 76 , if used, on the side wall 74 .
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- Infusion, Injection, And Reservoir Apparatuses (AREA)
- Polysaccharides And Polysaccharide Derivatives (AREA)
Abstract
Several different features are provided for use with a pump, particularly a microdispensing pump. a first aspect of the subject invention, latch fingers are provided which coact with a stop member to yieldingly inhibit movement of an actuator of the pump to ensure sufficient momentum is provided to the pump for actuation. In a second aspect of the invention, an overcap is provided which defines an at least liquid-tight seal with the pump body at locations spaced from a nozzle of the pump to limit ingress of contaminants into the nozzle. In a third aspect, at least one protruding bead is provided in proximity to at least one edge of a label mounted to the pump body to restrict removal thereof. In a fourth aspect, at least one rib is provided in proximity to a dispensing cap to provide lateral stability thereto.
Description
- This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/323,659, filed Sep. 20, 2001.
- Microdispensing pumps are known in the prior art, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,956; WIPO PCT Published Application No. WO 01/14245; and related applications. The entire disclosures of these references are incorporated by reference herein.
- Although microdispensing pumps are known in the prior art, problems still exist with their operation and storage. For example, with a microdispensing pump used in an ophthalmic application, ingress of dirt into the pump's nozzle is a major concern. With prior art eye dropper bottle designs, a threaded overcap is typically provided which is formed to sufficiently thread onto a dropper bottle body to press against and form a tight mechanical seal against the dispensing aperture of the dropper bottle. However, with a microdispensing pump, such a design is not practicable, because of the nozzle orientation (i.e., being transverse to the longitudinal axis of the pump body), as well as, the simple fact that movement of the nozzle, vis-à-vis the dispensing cap, may result in inadvertent actuation of the pump. With eye dropper bottles, tight contact between an overcap and a dispensing aperture does not result in an inadvertent administration of fluid.
- Various shortcomings associated with the prior art are addressed with the subject invention. Different features of a microdispensing pump are described herein which may be used in various combinations, or each singularly, and also may be used in various pump applications, not limited to microdispensing pumps. Some of the features are particularly well-suited for applications where accurate dosing is desired, such as with ophthalmic applications.
- In a variation of the first aspect of the subject invention, a pump is provided including a plurality of cantilevered fingers; a piston is disposed to slidably move at least partially within the fingers; and, a stop member is at least partially disposed about the piston, the stop member and the fingers being fixed to the pump body such that movement of the piston results in relative movement between the fingers and the stop member. In addition, the stop member is located to be contacted by the fingers upon a predetermined extent of relative movement between the stop member and the fingers, with the fingers flexing upon contacting the stop member such that the fingers yieldingly inhibit movement of the piston. Accordingly, a predetermined amount of force is required to overcome the resistance provided by the fingers. In this manner, sufficient momentum must be required to actuate the pump to ensure delivery of a proper dose, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,956.
- In a second aspect of the subject invention, a pump is provided having an overcap formed to removably mount onto a pump body, the overcap defining an at least liquid-tight seal with the pump body at locations spaced from a nozzle on the pump body. In this manner, the overcap can be used to restrict the introduction of dirt, debris and other contaminants to the nozzle of the pump, with the pump not being in use. As such, the pump can be provided with a sufficiently proper seal which can withstand hazardous conditions, including those rigorous conditions imposed by CCIT (container closure integrity testing).
- In a third aspect of the subject invention, a pump is provided having at least one bead protruding from a pump body in proximity to at least one edge of a label mounted to the pump body. Particularly with labels having instructions and/or warnings, inadvertent or improper removal of the label is highly undesired. With the subject invention, removal of the label can be restricted.
- In a fourth aspect of the subject invention, a pump is provided with a pump body including a dispensing cap with a nozzle, the dispensing cap being movable to actuate the pump. In one variation, at least one channel is formed in the dispensing cap and at least one rib extends into each of the channels of the dispensing cap. The ribs each have a sufficient length to at least extend substantially through the respective channel along full extent of movement of the dispensing cap. With the rib-channel interface, sideward movement of the dispensing cap can be limited. This is particularly desirable where straight-line application of force to the dispensing cap is relied on to actuate the pump.
- These and other features of the invention will be better understood through a study of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.
-
FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views of a pump which may use one or more aspects of the subject invention; -
FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the latch fingers and ribs of the subject invention; -
FIG. 4 is a similar view toFIG. 3 , with the dispensing cap being in a depressed condition; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a pump having an overcap mounted thereto; -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is an enlarged sectional view ofsection 7 ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is a schematic showing a label disposed about the pump; and, -
FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a lower portion of the label and protective beads disposed in proximity thereto. - With reference to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , arepresentative pump 10 is depicted, which may include one or more of the aspects of the subject invention. Thepump 10 is formed for dispensing fluid, preferably ophthalmic medication. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, thepump 10 may be formed with any configuration; for illustrative purposes, thepump 10 includes a pump body which may include a handle 12 (which may house a fluid reservoir), aneck portion 14, a dispensingcap 16 disposed within theneck portion 14, and aflip cap 18 hingedly mounted to theneck portion 14 via ahinge 20. Anozzle 21 is formed in the dispensingcap 16 to dispense the fluid upon actuation of the pump; the actuation preferably being achieved by depressing the dispensingcap 16 and causing downward travel thereof. Thepump 10 is preferably of a lift-pump type formed in accordance with the teachings set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,956 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/123,390, but may also be of other pump types, such as a pre-compression type (formed in accordance with the teachings of WIPO PCT Published Application No. WO 01/14245), submersible pump type (such as that shown in WIPO PCT Published Application No. WO 02/068317), and any other form known to those skilled in the art. The inventive features described below are usable with thepump 10 and, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art, in varying combinations or singularly. The disclosures of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/123,390 and WIPO PCT Published Application No. WO 02/068317 are incorporated herein by reference. - Latch Fingers
- As discussed in PCT Published Application No. WO 01/14245, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,956, the generation of sufficient momentum in actuating a microdispensing pump will avoid partial dosing, as well as, ensure sufficient momentum for a dose is provided to be properly ejected from a pump (and, therefore, properly administered).
- With reference to
FIGS. 3 and 4 ,flexible latch fingers 30 are provided which are circumferentially disposed about apoppet 32, having a stem 34 and ahead 36, and a slidable,tubular piston 38. Acheck valve element 40 is disposed to control the fluid dosing from thepump 10 and is controlled byspring arms 42, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/123,390. In addition, thehead 36 of thepoppet 32 and thepiston 38 coact to form a shut-off valve, also, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/123,390. - A
tubular element 44 extends downwardly from thespring arms 42 which terminates in anannular shoulder stop 46 that circumscribes thepiston 38. As such, theshoulder stop 46 is fixed to the dispensingcap 16 so as to move in concert therewith. Alternatively, theshoulder stop 46 can be formed on any element fixed to the dispensingcap 16 or unitarily formed with the dispensingcap 16. - To actuate the
pump 10, downward force is applied to the dispensingcap 16, resulting in downward movement of theshoulder stop 46, as well as thepiston 38. With such downward movement, theshoulder stop 46 eventually comes into bearing engagement with thelatch fingers 30, applying increasing downward force thereto commensurate with further movement of theshoulder stop 46. Thelatch fingers 30 restrict the ability of thetubular element 44, and thus, thepiston 38, from moving downward. Upon a sufficient force being applied, as shown inFIG. 4 , thelatch fingers 30 deflect outwardly with theshoulder stop 46 being located between enlarged ends 48 of thelatch fingers 30 and theshoulder stop 46. Thus, thepiston 38 may travel its full extent and cause actuation of thepump 10—this actuation being achieved with sufficient momentum to ensure a proper dose of fluid is delivered. The movement of thepiston 38 causes a dose to be administered through thenozzle 21. Thepiston 38 may be used to generate pressure in fluid in thepump 10 in any manner known to those skilled in the art to cause dose administration and may be formed with any known configuration (i.e., not necessarily tubular as shown in the Figures). Thelatch fingers 30 will not yield until a sufficient force is applied to cause thelatch fingers 30 to bend radially outwardly away from thepiston 38. Preferably, thelatch fingers 30 are cantilevered to aunitary component 50 of the pump body of thepump 10. - As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the dispensing
cap 16 is an actuator of thepump 10. The subject invention can be used in other pump configurations to restrict movement of an actuator, where, for example, an actuator that is separate from its dispensing aperture (e.g., an actuator which is separate from a nozzle). - Preferably, the
shoulder stop 46 is annular, but may also be discontinuous. It is also preferred that thelatch fingers 30 be evenly spaced about thepiston 38. Theshoulder stop 46 can be formed with discontinuous limited surfaces for limited engagement with one or more of thelatch fingers 30. - The amount of resistance to downward movement of the shoulder stop 46 (and, thus, to downward movement of the dispensing cap 16) generated by the
latch fingers 30 is a function of several factors, including, but not limited to: the constituent material of thelatch fingers 30; the physical configuration of the latch fingers 30 (shape; inherent columnar stiffness; strength of cantilevered connection); and interaction between the enlarged ends 48 and the shoulder stop 46 (angle of contact; shapes; degree of friction). If insufficient resistance is provided by thelatch fingers 30, thelatch fingers 30 will not ensure sufficient momentum is imparted to thepump 10 upon actuation. If, however, excessive resistance is provided, thelatch fingers 30 may buckle or be damaged (e.g., enlarged ends 48 could be scratched), resulting in inconsistent and unpredictable operation. It is preferred that the angle of contact between an end surface 45 of theshoulder stop 46 andtop surfaces 47 of the latch fingers 30 (as represented by angle α inFIG. 3 ) be 10 degrees or less, more preferably 0 degrees. To obtain the angle α, the end surface 45 and/or thetop surfaces 47 may be tapered. It is also preferred that the surface finishes of the end surface 45 and thetop surfaces 47 be dissimilar. It is further preferred that thelatch fingers 30 and theshoulder stop 46 be formed from dissimilar materials. For example, the shoulder stop 46 (which may be unitarily formed with the tubular element 44) may be formed from polyethylene, whereas, the latch fingers 30 (which may be formed unitarily with the component 50) may be formed from polypropylene, or vice versa. - It is also preferred that the
latch fingers 30 be formed, for example, by injection molding, into a shape which does not correspond to its undeflected state, as shown inFIG. 3 . Rather, upon formation, thelatch fingers 30 are bent or forced into the desired, undeflected state with the constituent material of thelatch fingers 30 not having been fully solidified (e.g., upon being removed from a mold). In this manner, thelatch fingers 30 are biaxially stressed with the microscopic structure thereof being aligned to impart memory to thelatch fingers 30 themselves. This memory both encourages thelatch fingers 30 to return more consistently to their undeflected position and to better resist stresses and strains of repeated operation. This same manufacturing technique is preferably used with thespring arms 42. It is preferred that, in undeflected states, thelatch fingers 30 bear against the outer surface of thepiston 38, and thespring arms 42 bear against thecheck valve element 40. - Overcap
- With reference to
FIG. 5 , anovercap 52 may be provided which mounts onto, and forms a seal with, thehandle 12 of the pump body. Advantageously, theovercap 52 completely encompasses and protects the dispensingcap 16, and all components thereabout, including thenozzle 21. With a seal being formed at locations spaced from the dispensingcap 16 and thenozzle 21, the ingress of dirt and debris thereinto may be minimized. It is preferred that theovercap 52 form at least a liquid-tight, and, preferably, a fluid-tight seal with the pump body. - With reference to
FIG. 6 , theovercap 52 is preferably unitarily formed and has a cup shape.Edge 54 of theovercap 52 is placed into engagement with thehandle 12 upon theovercap 52 being mounted to the pump body of thepump 10. With reference toFIG. 7 , theedge 54 is preferably formed to flare outwardly and to terminate in at least oneretention bead 56. The shape of theedge 54 preferably matches that of thehandle 12 of the pump body. At least twobeads handle 12 of the pump body which are positioned to engage theovercap 52 above thelarge bead 56. Thelower bead 58 is a retention bead formed to interferently engage theretention bead 56 upon upward movement of theovercap 52 to inhibit removal of theovercap 52. In a mounted position of theovercap 52, theretention bead 56 extends inwardly of thelower bead 58. - The
upper bead 59 is formed to interferently engage aninner surface 55 of theovercap 52 to define a fluid-tight/liquid-tight seal. (The outline of theupper bead 59 is shown to overlap theedge 54 to represent this interferent engagement.) In addition, theovercap 52 may be formed to be stressed in a mounted position to enhance the seal's integrity such as by defining one or more contact points 61 between theinner surface 55 and thehandle 12. Theupper bead 59 and the contact points 61 define redundant seals in giving thepump 10/overcap 52 assembly the liquid-tight/fluid-tight seal. The strength of the seal may be adjusted for the pump's application; for example, where some gas permeability may be desired, a fluid-tight seal is not appropriate. - The contact points 61 can be defined as a self-holding taper fit (e.g., a Morse-taper type fit) which not only defines an at least liquid-tight seal, but also provides holding force for the
overcap 52 to the pump body. With sufficient holding force and/or sealing integrity, theretention bead 56, thelower bead 58 and/or theupper bead 59 need not be provided. It is preferred that theinner surface 55 and thehandle 12 define a taper angle in the range of 0°-7°, more preferably 1°-2.5°, at the contact points 61 to define the self-holding taper fit. - It is preferred that the constituent material, preferably plastic, of the
overcap 52 be resilient to allow theedge 54 to expand outwardly upon mounting theovercap 52 so that theretention bead 56 may pass over thebeads bead 59 with theovercap 52. It is further preferred that cooperatingshoulders overcap 52 and thehandle 12 of the pump body, respectively, to limit the downward movement of theovercap 52, thereby allowing for proper positioning thereof. - Beads for Protecting Label
- Referring to
FIG. 8 , thepump 10 may be packaged with a clear or printed-onlabel 64. Typically, the printed-onlabel 64 is shrunk onto (“shrink wrapped” onto) thepump 10. As shown inFIG. 8 , thelabel 64 preferably extends the full length of thepump 10/overcap 52 assembly to provide an additional holding force for maintaining theovercap 52 on thepump 10 and to indicate any tampering with thepump 10 prior to initial use. For removal, a weakenedportion 66, such as a tear line defined by an array of perforations, is defined just below theovercap 52, so that upon forcibly removing theovercap 52, thelabel 64 is severed into an upper portion 64 a and a lower portion 64 b. - It may be desirable to maintain the lower portion 64 b of the
label 64 on thepump 10, for aesthetic and/or marketing purposes. Additionally, the lower portion 64 b may contain instructions and other vital information, such as warnings, relating to the fluid that is to be dispensed by thepump 10. Accordingly, to restrict the ability of a user in removing the lower portion 64 b of thelabel 64,protective beads 68 and 70 (FIG. 9 ) are disposed in proximity to the upper and lower edges of the lower portion 64 b. Theprotective beads protective beads pump 10 and are coextensive with the lower portion 64 b. It is preferred that the upperprotective bead 68 be positioned adjacent to the weakenedregion 66 of the label 64 (when intact), and also in proximity to theedge 54 of the overcap 52 (FIG. 9 ). - As is readily apparent, optionally, one of the
protective beads label 64 can be wholly formed to be disposed in proximity to one or both of theprotective beads 68, 70 (e.g., formed only as the lower portion 64 b). Also, thelabel 64, including any part thereof, can be affixed to thepump 10 in any manner known to those skilled in the art, including being adhered thereto. - Reduction of Dispensing Cap Float
- With reference to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , the dispensingcap 16 is mounted to move with thepiston 38 to actuate thepump 10, such as via thetubular element 44. Because of the slender construction of thepiston 38 and thetubular element 44, and because these elements are movable, the dispensingcap 16 may have some lateral instability. Furthermore, because of manufacturing tolerances, a clearance C is between the dispensingcap 16 and theneck portion 14. Accordingly, the dispensingcap 16 may move laterally during actuation, for example under eccentric loading, and float into the clearance C. With the dispensingcap 16 “floating” into the clearance C, downward force may be applied obliquely to thetubular element 44 and/or to thepiston 38, resulting in uneven loading on thelatch fingers 30, on various seal faces, and/or other components of thepump 10. - To minimize float, at least one
rib 72 extends from a side wall 74 (preferably, theside wall 74 is a portion of the neck portion 14) of the pump body of thepump 10 so as to engage or come into close proximity with the dispensingcap 16. Preferably, a plurality of circumferentially spacedribs 72 are utilized. With the dispensingcap 16 being tapered (tapered skirt 75), as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , lower portions of theribs 72 are in closer engagement with the dispensingcap 16 than upper portions. With theribs 72, float of the dispensingcap 16 can be greatly minimized or even altogether eliminated, resulting in generally straight downward movement of the dispensingcap 16 during actuation. Theribs 72 may engage anouter surface 73 of the dispensingcap 16 or, more preferably, extend intocorresponding channels 76 formed in the dispensingcap 16. It is preferred that theribs 72 have generally straight outer faces 78 (0 degrees of draft) and that a clearance of 0.001 to 0.005 inches be defined between theribs 72 and the associated opposing surface (theouter surface 73/the channels 76). - With reference to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , the dispensingcap 16 has a range of movement in actuating the pump 10 (FIG. 3 is an at-rest position of the dispensingcap 16;FIG. 4 is a depressed position of the cap 16). Theribs 72 are formed with sufficient length to at least extend substantially along the dispensingcap 16 for full extent of movement of the dispensingcap 16; where thechannels 76 are provided, theribs 72 are formed with sufficient length to at least extend substantially through the length of therespective channel 76 along full extent of movement of the dispensingcap 16. Preferably, theribs 72 are substantially coextensive with therespective channels 76. As such, theribs 72 act to limit lateral movement of the dispensingcap 16 throughout its range of movement. - As with previous aspects of the subject invention, this aspect can be used with various pump actuators and/or pump configurations. As a further variation, the
ribs 72 may be formed on the dispensingcap 16, and thechannels 76, if used, on theside wall 74. - Various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention. It is intended that all such changes and modifications come within the scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.
Claims (20)
1-8. (canceled)
9. A pump for dispensing fluid, said pump comprising:
a pump body having a nozzle; and,
an overcap formed to removably mount onto said pump body, said overcap defining an at least liquid-tight seal with said pump body at locations spaced from said nozzle.
10. A pump as in claim 9 , wherein said overcap is cup-shaped with an edge surrounding an open end thereof, said edge being formed with at least one retention bead.
11. A pump as in claim 10 , wherein said pump body being formed with at least one protruding pump body retention bead, wherein, with said overcap being mounted to said pump body, said pump body retention bead being located within said overcap above said retention bead of said overcap.
12. A pump as in claim 11 , wherein said pump body retention bead is formed to interferently engage said retention bead of said overcap upon upward movement of said overcap to inhibit removal of said overcap.
13. A pump as in claim 11 , wherein said pump body being formed with at least one protruding seal bead formed to interferently engage with an inner surface of said overcap, with said overcap being mounted to said pump body.
14. A pump as in claim 9 , wherein said pump body being formed with at least one protruding seal bead formed to interferently engage with an inner surface of said overcap, with said overcap being mounted to said pump body.
15. A pump as in claim 9 , wherein said pump body being formed with at least one protruding seal bead formed to interferently engage with an inner surface of said overcap, with said overcap being mounted to said pump body.
16. A pump as in claim 9 , wherein said pump body and said overcap are formed with cooperating shoulders to limit the downward movement of said overcap relative to said pump body, whereby proper positioning of said overcap relative to said pump body can be attained.
17. A pump as in claim 9 , wherein said at least liquid-tight seal is fluid-tight.
18. A pump as in claim 9 , wherein a self-holding taper fit is defined between said pump body and an inner surface of said overcap.
19. A pump for dispensing fluid, said pump comprising:
a pump body;
a label mounted about at least a portion of said pump body; and,
at least one bead protruding from said pump body in proximity to at least one edge of said label.
20. A pump as in claim 19 , wherein said label is generally cylindrical having first and second edges, said bead being coextensive with said first edge.
21. A pump as in claim 20 , wherein at least two of said beads protrude from said pump body, a second of said beads being located in proximity to, and coextensive with, said second edge.
22. A pump as in claim 19 , wherein said label is adherently affixed to said pump body.
23. A pump as in claim 19 , wherein said label is shrunk onto said pump body.
24. A pump for dispensing fluid, said pump comprising:
a pump body including a movable dispensing cap with a nozzle, said dispensing cap being movable to actuate the pump, at least one channel being formed in said dispensing cap, and at least one protruding rib extending into each of said channels, each said rib having a sufficient length to at least extend substantially through the length of said respective channel along full extent of movement of said dispensing cap.
25. A pump as in claim 24 , wherein said dispensing cap includes a tapered skirt, said channels being formed in said skirt.
26. A pump as in claim 24 , wherein each said rib having a sufficient length to be at least substantially coextensive with said respective channels along full extent of movement of said dispensing cap.
27-35. (canceled)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/436,297 US20060201975A1 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2006-05-18 | Microdispensing pump |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US32365901P | 2001-09-20 | 2001-09-20 | |
US10/490,183 US7073733B2 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2002-09-20 | Microdispensing pump |
PCT/US2002/029892 WO2003024823A1 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2002-09-20 | Microdispensing pump |
US11/436,297 US20060201975A1 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2006-05-18 | Microdispensing pump |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/490,183 Division US7073733B2 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2002-09-20 | Microdispensing pump |
PCT/US2002/029892 Division WO2003024823A1 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2002-09-20 | Microdispensing pump |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060201975A1 true US20060201975A1 (en) | 2006-09-14 |
Family
ID=23260161
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/490,183 Expired - Lifetime US7073733B2 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2002-09-20 | Microdispensing pump |
US11/436,297 Abandoned US20060201975A1 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2006-05-18 | Microdispensing pump |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/490,183 Expired - Lifetime US7073733B2 (en) | 2001-09-20 | 2002-09-20 | Microdispensing pump |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7073733B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1436212B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE435166T1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE60232805D1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2003024823A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10154923B2 (en) | 2010-07-15 | 2018-12-18 | Eyenovia, Inc. | Drop generating device |
WO2013138466A1 (en) | 2012-03-13 | 2013-09-19 | Cohen, Ben, Z. | Nozzle |
EP3634550A4 (en) | 2017-06-10 | 2021-03-03 | Eyenovia, Inc. | Methods and devices for handling a fluid and delivering the fluid to the eye |
FR3107518B1 (en) * | 2020-02-21 | 2022-02-18 | Lindal France | Diffuser for actuating the valve of an aerosol generator |
EP4000745A1 (en) * | 2020-11-17 | 2022-05-25 | Aptar Radolfzell GmbH | Pump dispenser with cap unit |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US3064865A (en) * | 1959-08-24 | 1962-11-20 | Cook Chemical Company | Sprayer head having improved sealing and discharging means |
US3885715A (en) * | 1972-08-29 | 1975-05-27 | Lowry Dev Corp | Security caps for containers |
US4179049A (en) * | 1977-04-29 | 1979-12-18 | Avon Products, Inc. | Pump dispenser |
US4485943A (en) * | 1982-03-08 | 1984-12-04 | Joachim Czech | Dispenser for liquids or pasty products |
US4875604A (en) * | 1986-01-17 | 1989-10-24 | Joachim Czech | Dispenser for paste-like products |
Family Cites Families (14)
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US3771420A (en) * | 1972-03-20 | 1973-11-13 | M Buchtel | Liquid control device |
US4083476A (en) * | 1973-11-30 | 1978-04-11 | Boehringer Ingelheim Gmbh | Snap device for manually actuated liquid-atomizing pumps |
US4335835A (en) * | 1978-12-26 | 1982-06-22 | Anatros Corporation | Device for the intravenous or enteric infusion of liquids into the human body at a predetermined constant rate |
JPS587253A (en) * | 1981-07-04 | 1983-01-17 | テルモ株式会社 | Drug liquid pouring apparatus |
US4848598A (en) * | 1988-02-29 | 1989-07-18 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Dispensing device |
US5358149A (en) * | 1992-12-17 | 1994-10-25 | Neill Richard K O | Pressure build-up pump sprayer having anti-clogging means |
US5467900A (en) * | 1994-03-16 | 1995-11-21 | Afa Products, Inc. | Precompression valve for trigger sprayer |
IT1272904B (en) * | 1995-01-16 | 1997-07-01 | Elettro Plastica Spa | PUMP FOR DISPENSING NEBULIZED LIQUIDS |
US6050457A (en) * | 1995-12-06 | 2000-04-18 | The Procter & Gamble Company | High pressure manually-actuated spray pump |
US6083762A (en) * | 1996-05-31 | 2000-07-04 | Packard Instruments Company | Microvolume liquid handling system |
US5881956A (en) | 1996-08-08 | 1999-03-16 | Ben Z. Cohen | Microdispensing ophthalmic pump |
AU7067900A (en) | 1999-08-23 | 2001-03-19 | Ben Z. Cohen | Microdispensing pump |
WO2002068317A1 (en) | 2001-02-21 | 2002-09-06 | Cohen Ben Z | Accurate dosing pump and accessories therefor |
KR100995652B1 (en) * | 2003-08-28 | 2010-11-22 | 주식회사 종우실업 | Low profile, fine mist, finger-operated, precompression-type spray pump |
-
2002
- 2002-09-20 DE DE60232805T patent/DE60232805D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2002-09-20 EP EP02775902A patent/EP1436212B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2002-09-20 AT AT02775902T patent/ATE435166T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2002-09-20 US US10/490,183 patent/US7073733B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2002-09-20 WO PCT/US2002/029892 patent/WO2003024823A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
2006
- 2006-05-18 US US11/436,297 patent/US20060201975A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3064865A (en) * | 1959-08-24 | 1962-11-20 | Cook Chemical Company | Sprayer head having improved sealing and discharging means |
US3885715A (en) * | 1972-08-29 | 1975-05-27 | Lowry Dev Corp | Security caps for containers |
US4179049A (en) * | 1977-04-29 | 1979-12-18 | Avon Products, Inc. | Pump dispenser |
US4485943A (en) * | 1982-03-08 | 1984-12-04 | Joachim Czech | Dispenser for liquids or pasty products |
US4875604A (en) * | 1986-01-17 | 1989-10-24 | Joachim Czech | Dispenser for paste-like products |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1436212B1 (en) | 2009-07-01 |
EP1436212A4 (en) | 2007-05-16 |
ATE435166T1 (en) | 2009-07-15 |
US7073733B2 (en) | 2006-07-11 |
WO2003024823A9 (en) | 2004-05-06 |
DE60232805D1 (en) | 2009-08-13 |
WO2003024823A1 (en) | 2003-03-27 |
US20040262423A1 (en) | 2004-12-30 |
EP1436212A1 (en) | 2004-07-14 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |