US20130245597A1 - Click pen applicator device and method of using same - Google Patents

Abstract

A click pen applicator device that provides predetermined dosing of the formulation for precise application, and rapidly primes the formulation using the dosing click mechanism to prepare the applicator for use is disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
• The present application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from the prior U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/415,522, filed on Nov. 19, 2010, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to a click pen applicator device, and a method of using the click pen applicator device.
BACKGROUND
• Existing pen applicators generally utilize a twist function for dispensing a formulation from the pen applicator. These twist pen applicators generally include a rotating portion that is twisted or rotated relative to the remaining portion of the applicator, thereby advancing a formulation contained within the twist pen applicator. However, such twist pen applicators do not provide a predetermined dose of the formulation since the rotating portion is generally freely rotatable. Accordingly, a user is required to make a determination as to the appropriate amount of the formulation to dispense for a particular application. In addition, twist pen applicators may suffer from sealing problems. Further, such twist pen applicators generally require a substantial number of rotations of the rotating portion before the twist pen applicator is primed and ready to dispense the formulation.
• Click pen applicators generally include an actuating portion that is pressed, or clicked, relative to the remaining portion of the applicator, thereby advancing a formulation contained within the click pen applicator. Further, such click pen applicators are conventionally known to have sealing problems that may render them less desirable than twist pen applicators, especially for formulations that may require better sealing, such as those that may tend to evaporate or experience weight loss over time. Further, click pen applicators also generally require a substantial number of clicks of the actuating portion before the click pen applicator is primed and ready to dispense the formulation. A priorart click pen170 is illustrated inFIGS. 17 and 18.
• Thus, existing pen applicators share the common problems of inadequate sealing, uncontrolled delivery of the formulation, and excessive number of actuations before the applicator is primed and ready for use. For example, inadequate sealing may result in the formulation's evaporating while the applicator is merely in storage between uses. In addition, uncontrolled delivery may result in a user's applying too much or too little of the formulation for the particular application, potentially having harmful or ineffective results. Further, excessive number of actuations for priming may lead to a user's believing that the applicator is broken, non-functional, empty, dried up, or otherwise unusable, when the applicator is in fact functional but not yet fully primed for use.
SUMMARY
• Accordingly, there is a need for an applicator that improves sealing of the formulation to reduce evaporation and/or weight loss, provides predetermined dosing of the formulation for precise application, and rapidly primes the formulation to prepare the applicator for immediate use.
• In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a device for dispensing a formulation comprises a centerband having a proximal end and a distal end and defining a storage section having the formulation disposed within; an applicator section situated at the distal end of the centerband; and a multistage actuator section situated at the proximal end of the centerband for rapid priming with a click dispensing mechanism with a piston seat having two sets of external threads on a shaft with an unthreaded length therebetween.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the multistage actuator section comprises a spiral having internal threads configured to engage with the external threads of the piston seat; and a priming spring operatively engaged between the piston seat and the spiral.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the two sets of external threads of the piston seat have a same pitch.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, a first set of the two sets of external threads includes a length shorter than that of a second set of the two sets of external threads.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, a pitch of a second set of the two sets of external threads is configured to dispense a discrete dose with each dispensing actuation.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the priming spring is configured to expand over the unthreaded length of the piston seat when the internal threads of the spiral do not engage the external threads of the piston seat.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the multistage actuator section further comprises a cup attached to a distal end of the piston seat; a seal between the cup and the proximal end of the centerband; a gear operatively engaged with the shaft of the piston seat; a click spring operatively disposed between the gear and the spiral; and a spiral sleeve and a push button operatively engaged with the gear, the push button having a locking element.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the applicator section comprises a passing seat attached to the distal end of the centerband; a seal between the passing seat and the distal end of the centerband; an orifice reducer situated inside the passing seat; a nose attached to a distal end of the passing seat; and a cap attached to the distal end of the centerband.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the cap includes a pintel configured to seal at least one of the nose and the passing seat of the applicator section.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the seal between the cup and the proximal end of the centerband is an o-ring, and the seal between the passing seat and the distal end of the centerband is an o-ring.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the formulation comprises salicylic acid.
• In yet another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a method of priming and dosing a formulation using a click pen dispensing device comprises priming the formulation at a priming rate using a click actuator with a piston seat having two sets of external threads on a shaft with an unthreaded length therebetween; and dosing the formulation at a dosing rate different from the priming rate using the click actuator.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the click actuator is actuated using one hand.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the click actuator includes a locking element for preventing the priming and the dosing.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the formulation comprises salicylic acid.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the priming step includes at least one fine priming rate and a gross priming rate.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the dosing step dispenses a predetermined dose of the formulation, and the priming step dispenses a predetermined priming dose of the formulation.
• In yet another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a method of dispensing a formulation, using a device comprising a centerband having a proximal end and a distal end and defining a storage section having a distal end and a proximal end and having the formulation disposed within, an applicator section situated at the distal end of the centerband, and a multistage actuator section situated at the proximal end of the centerband, comprises priming the device by priming actuations of the multistage actuator section with a piston seat having two sets of external threads on a shaft with an unthreaded length therebetween, the priming step comprising a gross priming actuation displacing a volume greater than that of a predetermined dose; dispensing the predetermined dose of the formulation, via the applicator section, by subsequent dispensing actuations of the multistage actuator section; and applying the predetermined dose via the applicator section.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the priming step comprises at least one fine priming actuation displacing a volume less than that of the gross priming actuation.
• In an alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the priming step comprises at least one fine priming actuation displacing a volume equal to that of the predetermined dose.
• Other features and aspects of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following brief description of the drawings, the detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an assembled click pen applicator device according to the present invention.
• FIG. 1B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1A.
• FIG. 1C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 1B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1A.
• FIG. 1D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1A.
• FIG. 1E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1A.
• FIG. 1F illustrates a schematic perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an assembled click pen applicator device according to the present invention.
• FIG. 1G illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1F.
• FIG. 1H illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 1G of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1F.
• FIG. 1I illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1F.
• FIG. 1J illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1F.
• FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a centerband according to the present invention.
• FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 2A.
• FIG. 2C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 2B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 2A.
• FIG. 2D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 2A.
• FIG. 2E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 2A.
• FIG. 2F illustrates a schematic perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a centerband according to the present invention.
• FIG. 2G illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 2F.
• FIG. 2H illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown inFIG. 2G of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 2F.
• FIG. 2I illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 2F.
• FIG. 2J illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 2F.
• FIG. 3A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a passing seat according to the present invention.
• FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3A.
• FIG. 3C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 3B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3A.
• FIG. 3D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3A.
• FIG. 3E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3A.
• FIG. 3F illustrates a schematic perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a passing seat according to the present invention.
• FIG. 3G illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3F.
• FIG. 3H illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 3G of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3F.
• FIG. 3I illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3F.
• FIG. 3J illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3F.
• FIG. 3K illustrates a schematic side view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a passing seat according to the present invention.
• FIG. 4A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a sealing element according to the present invention.
• FIG. 4B illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 4A.
• FIG. 4C illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 4A.
• FIG. 5A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an orifice reducer according to the present invention.
• FIG. 5B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 5A.
• FIG. 5C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 5B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 5A.
• FIG. 5D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 5A.
• FIG. 5E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 5A.
• FIG. 5F illustrates a schematic perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an orifice reducer according to the present invention.
• FIG. 5G illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 5F.
• FIG. 5H illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 5G of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 5F.
• FIG. 5I illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 5F.
• FIG. 5J illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 5F.
• FIG. 6A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a nose according to the present invention.
• FIG. 6B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6A.
• FIG. 6C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 6B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6A.
• FIG. 6D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6A.
• FIG. 6E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6A.
• FIG. 6F illustrates a schematic perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a nose according to the present invention.
• FIG. 6G illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6F.
• FIG. 6H illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 6G of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6F.
• FIG. 6I illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6F.
• FIG. 6J illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6F.
• FIG. 6K illustrates a schematic perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a nose according to the present invention.
• FIG. 6L illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6K.
• FIG. 6M illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 6L of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6K.
• FIG. 6N illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6K.
• FIG. 6O illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6K.
• FIG. 6P illustrates a schematic perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a nose according to the present invention.
• FIG. 6Q illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6P.
• FIG. 6R illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 6Q of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 69.
• FIG. 6S illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6P.
• FIG. 6T illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6P.
• FIG. 6U illustrates a schematic perspective view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a nose according to the present invention.
• FIG. 6V illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6U.
• FIG. 6W illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 6V of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6U.
• FIG. 6X illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6U.
• FIG. 6Y illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6U.
• FIG. 7A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cap according to the present invention.
• FIG. 7B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7A.
• FIG. 7C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 7B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7A.
• FIG. 7D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7A.
• FIG. 7E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7A.
• FIG. 7F illustrates a schematic perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a cap according to the present invention.
• FIG. 7G illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7F.
• FIG. 7H illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 7G of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7F.
• FIG. 7I illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7F.
• FIG. 7J illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7F.
• FIG. 8A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a piston seat according to the present invention.
• FIG. 8B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 8A.
• FIG. 8C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 8B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 8A.
• FIG. 8D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 8A.
• FIG. 8E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 8A.
• FIG. 9A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cup according to the present invention.
• FIG. 9B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 9A.
• FIG. 9C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 9B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 9A.
• FIG. 9D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 9A.
• FIG. 9E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 9A.
• FIG. 10A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a spiral according to the present invention.
• FIG. 10B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 10A.
• FIG. 10C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 10B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 10A.
• FIG. 10D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 10A.
• FIG. 10E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 10A.
• FIG. 11A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a priming spring according to the present invention.
• FIG. 11B illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 11A.
• FIG. 11C illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 11A.
• FIG. 12A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a gear according to the present invention.
• FIG. 12B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 12A.
• FIG. 12C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 12B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 12A.
• FIG. 12D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 12A.
• FIG. 12E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 12A.
• FIG. 13A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a click spring according to the present invention.
• FIG. 13B illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 13A.
• FIG. 13C illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 13A.
• FIG. 14A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a spiral sleeve according to the present invention.
• FIG. 14B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 14A.
• FIG. 14C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 14B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 14A.
• FIG. 14D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 14A.
• FIG. 14E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 14A.
• FIG. 15A illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a push button according to the present invention.
• FIG. 15B illustrates a schematic side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 15A.
• FIG. 15C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 15B of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 15A.
• FIG. 15D illustrates a schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 15A.
• FIG. 15E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 15A.
• FIG. 16 illustrates a schematic perspective, exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a click pen applicator device according to the present invention.
• FIG. 17A illustrates a schematic perspective view of a prior art click pen applicator device.
• FIG. 17B illustrates a schematic side view of the prior art click pen applicator device ofFIG. 17A.
• FIG. 17C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown inFIG. 173 of the prior art click pen applicator device ofFIG. 17A.
• FIG. 17D illustrates a schematic top view of the prior art click pen applicator device ofFIG. 17A.
• FIG. 17E illustrates a schematic bottom view of the prior art click pen applicator device ofFIG. 17A.
• FIG. 18 illustrates a schematic perspective, exploded view of a prior art click pen applicator device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
• FIGS. 1A to 1E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an assembled clickpen applicator device10 according to the present invention.FIGS. 1F to 1J illustrate another exemplary embodiment of an assembled clickpen applicator device10′ according to the present invention. Similar features among the exemplary embodiments are illustrated with like reference numerals.
• Thedevice10,10′ may include three sections: anapplicator section11 at a distal end, astorage section12 in a middle section, and amultistage actuator section13 at a proximal end. Theapplicator section11 may include a passingseat30,30′,30″, a sealingelement40, anorifice reducer50,50′, anose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″, and acap70,70′, theapplicator section11 configured to connect to a distal end of acenterband20,20′. Thestorage section12 may be defined by a middle section of thecenterband20,20′. Themultistage actuator section13 may include apiston seat80, acup90, a sealingelement40, aspiral100, apriming spring110, agear120, aclick spring130, aspiral sleeve140, and apush button150, themultistage actuator section13 configured to connect to a proximal end of thecenterband20,20′. In the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1A to 1E, thecap70 may be a push-on cap, whereas in the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 1F to 1J, thecap70′ may be a screw-on cap. Further, the distal end ofcenterband20,20′ ofdevice10,10′ may increase in diameter to match the diameter of the proximal end of thecap70,70′.
• FIGS. 2A to 2E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of acenterband20 defining astorage section12 in the middle section of thedevice10 according to the present invention.FIGS. 2F to 2J illustrate another exemplary embodiment of acenterband20′ defining astorage section12 in the middle section of thedevice10′ according to the present invention. Theapplicator section11 is configured to connect to adistal end21 of acenterband20,20′, and themultistage actuator section13 configured to connect to aproximal end22 of thecenterband20,20′. Similar features among the exemplary embodiments are illustrated with like reference numerals.
• Thecenterband20,20′ defining thestorage section12 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end21 and aproximal end22. Thecenterband20,20′ may be in the shape of an elongate tube, pipe, barrel, or other similar shape defining astorage chamber26 in its middle section configured to store and dispense a formulation. Thedistal end21 of thecenterband20,20′ may includeinternal grooves24 configured to interface with components of theapplicator section11. For example, theinternal grooves24 may interface with a passingseat30,30′,30″ of theapplicator section11. In addition, theproximal end22 of thecenterband20,20′ may includeinternal grooves25 configured to interface with components of themultistage actuator section13. For example, theinternal grooves25 may interface with aspiral sleeve140 of themultistage actuator section13. Alternatively, thecenterband20,20′ may include threads instead ofexternal ribs23,internal grooves24, and/orinternal grooves25 for attachment to each of theapplicator section11 and themultistage actuator section13.
• In the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 2A to 2E, thedistal end21 of thecenterband20 may includeexternal ribs23 configured to interface with components of theapplicator section11. For example, theexternal ribs23 may interface with acap70 of theapplicator section11, thecap70 being a push-on cap. In the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 2F to 2J, thedistal end21 of thecenterband20′ may include a flaredouter surface27 configured to abut against a proximal end of thecap70,70′, which cap70,70′ may be engaged or threaded to the passingseat30,30′,30″.
• Thecenterband20,20′ may be made of polypropylene, polyethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thecenterband20,20′ is made of polypropylene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thecenterband20,20′ may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thecenterband20,20′ is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 3A to 3E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a passingseat30 in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10 according to the present invention.FIGS. 3F to 3J illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a passingseat30′ in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10′ according to the present invention.FIG. 3K illustrates yet another exemplary embodiment of a passingseat30″ according to the present invention. Similar features among the exemplary embodiments are illustrated with like reference numerals.
• The passingseat30,30′,30″ in theapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end31 and aproximal end32. The passingseat30,30′,30″ may include acentral passage33 over its entire length, whichcentral passage33 may be in communication with thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′. Thedistal end31 of the passingseat30,30′ may include anangled end face34. However, other end faces may also be possible, such as flat, curved, rounded, convex, concave, and others. For example,FIG. 3K shows a passingseat30″ having aflat end face34. Theproximal end32 of the passingseat30,30′,30″ may includeexternal ribs35 configured to interface with thedistal end21 of thecenterband20,20′. For example, theexternal ribs35 of the passingseat30,30′,30″ may interface with theinternal grooves24 of thecenterband20,20′. Alternatively, the passingseat30,30′,30″ may include threads instead ofexternal ribs35 for attachment to thecenterband20,20′. In addition, theproximal end32 of the passingseat30,30′,30″ may include anannular groove36 configured to receive a sealing element of theapplicator section11. For example, theannular groove36 may receive a sealingelement40 that may seal the interface between the passingseat30,30′,30″ of theapplicator section11 and thedistal end21 of thecenterband20,20′. Further, the passingseat30,30′,30″ may include anannular flange37 configured to interface with anose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ of theapplicator section11. Alternatively, the passingseat30,30′,30″ may include threads instead of theannular flange37 for attachment to thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ of theapplicator section11.
• In the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 3F to 3J, the passingseat30′ may also includethreads38 between theannular groove36 and theannular flange37 configured to engage with a threadedcap70′.
• The passingseat30,30′,30″ may be made of polypropylene, polyethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, the passingseat30,30′,30″ is made of polypropylene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, the passingseat30,30′,30″ may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, the passingseat30,30′,30″ is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 4A to 4C illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a sealingelement40 in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• The sealingelement40 in theapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′ may include a circular o-ring configured and sized to fit within theannular groove36 of the passingseat30,30′,30″. The sealingelement40 may seal the interface between the passingseat30,30,30″ and thecenterband20,20′.
• The sealingelement40 may be made of rubber, thermoplastic rubber, silicone, and other suitable materials. Preferably, the sealingelement40 is made of rubber. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, the sealingelement40 may be manufactured by injection molding, compression molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, the sealingelement40 is manufactured by compression molding.
• FIGS. 5A to 5E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of anorifice reducer50 in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10 according to the present invention.FIGS. 5F to 5J illustrate another exemplary embodiment of anorifice reducer50′ in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10′ according to the present invention. Similar features among the exemplary embodiments are illustrated with like reference numerals.
• Theorifice reducer50,50′ in theapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end51 and aproximal end52. Theorifice reducer50,50′ may include acentral passage53 over its entire length, whichcentral passage53 may be in communication with thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30,30′,30″ and also with thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′. The external shape of theorifice reducer50,50′ may be configured to fit within thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30,30′,30″, thereby taking up at least part of the volume of thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30,30′,30″. In addition, theorifice reducer50,50′ may includeexternal ribs54 configured to secure theorifice reducer50,50′ within thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30,30′,30″. Alternatively, theorifice reducer50,50′ may include threads instead ofexternal ribs54 for attachment to the passingseat30,30′,30″. Further, in an alternative embodiment, theorifice reducer50,50′ and the passingseat30,30′,30″ may be manufactured as a single integral part, thereby potentially resulting in cost and time savings due to the elimination of both a part and an assembly step.
• In the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 5F to 5J, theorifice reducer50′ may be configured to fit within thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30′ ofFIGS. 3F to 3J, which passingseat30′ is configured to receive a threadedcap70′ onthreads38.
• Theorifice reducer50,50′ may be made of polypropylene, polyethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, theorifice reducer50,50′ is made of polypropylene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, theorifice reducer50,50′ may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, theorifice reducer50,50′ is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 6A to 6E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of anose60 in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.FIGS. 6F to 6J,6K to6O,6P to6T, and6U to6Y illustrate alternative exemplary embodiments of anose60′,60″,60′″,60″″ in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention. Similar features among the exemplary embodiments are illustrated with like reference numerals.
• Thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ in theapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end61 and aproximal end62. Thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ may include acentral passage63 over its entire length. Theproximal end62 of thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ may be configured to receive the passingseat30,30′,30″ in thecentral passage63. For example, thecentral passage63 may include anannular groove64 configured to interface with theannular flange37 of the passingseat30,30′,30″, thereby securing thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ to the passingseat30,30′,30″. Alternatively, thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ may include threads instead of theannular groove64 for attachment to the passingseat30,30′,30″. Thedistal end61 of thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ may include anorifice65, which orifice65 may be in communication with thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30,30′,30″, with thecentral passage53 of theorifice reducer50,50′, and also with thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′. Theorifice65 may be sized to dispense a formulation for application by a user. In addition, thedistal end61 of thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ may includebrushes66 to facilitate application and/or spreading of the formulation by a user.
• Thenose60 as shown inFIGS. 6A to 6E includes a shape that tapers towards thedistal end61 of thenose60. Other shapes of thenose60 may be possible. For example,FIGS. 6F to 6J,6K to6O,6P to6T, and6U to6Y illustrate alternative exemplary embodiments of anose60′,60″,60′″,60″″ in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′, in which thenose60′,60″,60′″,60″″ may include a stepped cylindrical shape, a cylindrical shape, or a tapered and stepped cylindrical shape. Additionally, other shapes may be possible. Further, alternative exemplary embodiments may include different end faces, such as angled, flat, curved, rounded, convex, concave, and others, end faces with or withoutbrushes66, and/or end faces including antimicrobial additives or substances, and alternative exemplary embodiments may be configured to receive passingseats30,30′,30″ having variously shaped end faces34, as described above. Moreover, in an alternative embodiment, thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ and the passingseat30,30′,30″, and possibly theorifice reducer50,50′, may be manufactured as a single integral part, thereby potentially resulting in cost and time savings due to the elimination of both a part and an assembly step.
• Thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ may be made of polyethylene, rubber, thermoplastic rubber, silicone, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ is made of rubber. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ may be manufactured by injection molding, compression molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ is manufactured by compression molding.
• FIGS. 7A to 7E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of acap70 in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10 according to the present invention.FIGS. 7F to7J illustrate another exemplary embodiment of acap70′ in anapplicator section11 of thedevice10′ according to the present invention. Similar features among the exemplary embodiments are illustrated with like reference numerals.
• Thecap70,70′ in theapplicator section11 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end71 and aproximal end72. Thecap70,70′ may be sized to fit over the passingseat30,30′,30″ andnose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ of theapplicator section11. Thedistal end71 of thecap70,70′ may include apintel74 configured to seal theorifice65 of thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″. For example, thepintel74 of thecap70,70′ may be sized to fit snugly within and extend for a short distance into theorifice65 of thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″, thereby sealing theorifice65 when thedevice10,10′ is not in use. Moreover, thecap70,70′ may also include a tamper-resistant feature, not shown, to indicate whether a product has been previously used. Thecap70,70′ may also include features on its external surface to facilitate grasping, pulling, pushing, twisting, or otherwise manipulating thecap70,70′, such as, for example, ribs, grooves, indentations, gripping pads or surfaces, rubberized portions, and other similar features.
• In the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 7A to 7E, theproximal end72 of thecap70 may includeinternal grooves73 configured to interface with thedistal end21 of thecenterband20 of thedevice10. For example, theinternal grooves73 of thecap70 may interface with theexternal ribs23 of thecenterband20 ofFIGS. 2A to 2E, thereby protecting theapplicator section11, in particular, thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ and brushes66, when not in use. In the exemplary embodiment ofFIGS. 7F to 7J, theproximal end72 of thecap70′ may includethreads75, instead ofinternal grooves73, configured to interface withthreads38 of the passingseat30′ ofFIGS. 3F to 3J, thereby protecting theapplicator section11, in particular, thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ and brushes66, when not in use.
• Thecap70,70′ may be made of polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, styrene acrylonitrile, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thecap70,70′ is made of polypropylene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thecap70,70′ may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thecap70,70′ is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 8A to 8E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of apiston seat80 in amultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• Thepiston seat80 in themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end81 and aproximal end82. Thepiston seat80 may include ashaft83 having at least onethread84, and asupport member85 at thedistal end81 of theshaft83. Thesupport member85 at thedistal end81 may include anexternal rib86 and apiston seat flange87 configured to receive a cup that contacts the formulation to be dispensed. For example, theexternal rib86 and thepiston seat flange87 may interface with acup90 that supports and advances the formulation. Theshaft83 may include a priming threadedportion84aat thedistal end81 of thepiston seat80 adjacent to thesupport member85, an unthreadedportion88 proximal to the priming threadedportion84a, and a dosing threadedportion84bthat extends substantially the remaining length of theshaft83 from the unthreadedportion88 to theproximal end82 of theshaft83. The priming threadedportion84aand the dosing threadedportion84bmay be configured to engage aspiral100. The priming threadedportion84aand the dosing threadedportion84bmay have the same pitch. Alternatively, the pitch of the priming threadedportion84amay be a multiple of, for example, double, the pitch of the dosing threadedportion84b. The priming threadedportion84amay include only one turn of threads, preferably a three-quarter turn or a half turn. The axial length of the unthreadedportion88 may be sized to displace a predetermined volume within thestorage section12. The pitch of the dosing threadedportion84bmay be sized to dispense a predetermined dose, or other predetermined amount, of the formulation with each actuation of themultistage actuator section13. Theshaft83 may include a keyed shape configured to interface with agear120. For example, theshaft83 may include at least oneflat surface89, and preferably two diametrically opposedflat surfaces89, extending the length of theshaft83. As a result of the keyed shape of theshaft83, thethreads84 of the priming threadedportion84aand the dosing threadedportion84bmay be discontinuous around a perimeter of the shaft. That is, the at least oneflat surface89 may be substantially free of threads.
• Thepiston seat80 may be made of polyoxymethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thepiston seat80 is made of polyoxymethylene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thepiston seat80 may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thepiston seat80 is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 9A to 9E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of acup90 in amultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• Thecup90 in themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end91 and aproximal end92. Thedistal end91 of thecup90 may be configured to support and advance a formulation stored in thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′. Theproximal end92 of thecup90 may include aninternal groove93 configured to interface with thepiston seat80. For example, theinternal groove93 of thecup90 may interface with theexternal rib86 of thepiston seat80, thereby securing thecup90 to thedistal end81 of thepiston seat80. Further, thecup90 may include anannular groove94 configured to receive a sealing element of themultistage actuator section13. For example, theannular groove94 may receive a sealingelement40 that is configured and sized to seal the interface between thecup90 of themultistage actuator section13 and theproximal end22 of thecenterband20,20′. Further, in an alternative embodiment, thecup90 and thepiston seat80 may be manufactured as a single integral part, thereby potentially resulting in cost and time savings due to the elimination of both a part and an assembly step.
• Thecup90 may be made of polypropylene, polyethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thecup90 is made of polypropylene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thecup90 may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thecup90 is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 10A to 10E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a spiral100 in amultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• Thespiral100 in themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end101 and aproximal end102. Thespiral100 may include acentral passage103 over its entire length, through which theshaft83 of thepiston seat80 may extend. A portion of thecentral passage103 may also includeinternal threads104 configured to engage the priming threadedportion84aand the dosing threadedportion84bof theshaft83 of thepiston seat80. Thedistal end101 of thespiral100 may include anannular channel105 configured to receive a spring element. For example, theannular channel105 of thespiral100 may receive a proximal end of apriming spring110. Further, theproximal end102 of thespiral100 may include anannular channel106 also configured to received a spring element. For example, theannular channel106 of thespiral100 may receive a distal end of aclick spring130. In addition, theproximal end102 of thespiral100 may include at least onesnap element107, preferably two diametricallyopposed snap elements107, configured to engage aspiral sleeve140, thereby securing thespiral100 to thespiral sleeve140.
• Thespiral100 may be made of polyoxymethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thespiral100 is made of polyoxymethylene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thespiral100 may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thespiral100 is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 11A to 11C illustrate an exemplary embodiment of apriming spring110 in amultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• Thepriming spring110 in themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end111 and aproximal end112. Thepriming spring110 may be situated over a length of theshaft83 of thepiston seat80. For example, thepriming spring110 may be situated substantially over the unthreadedportion88 of theshaft83. Thedistal end111 of thepriming spring110 may abut against a proximal surface of thepiston seat flange87 of thepiston seat80, and theproximal end112 of thepriming spring110 may be received in theannular channel105 of thespiral100. Thepriming spring110 may be configured to apply force between thepiston seat80 and thespiral100, such that thepiston seat80 is pushed in a distal direction and thespiral100 is pushed in a proximal direction. The spring rate of thepriming spring110 may be configured to expand over a length of the unthreadedportion88 of theshaft83, thereby displacing a predetermined volume within thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′ when thepiston seat80 is rotated by the click mechanism such that theinternal threads104 of thespiral100 disengage the priming threadedportion84aand thepriming spring110 advances thepiston seat80 over the length of the unthreadedportion88 of theshaft83.
• Thepriming spring110 may be made of steel, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thepriming spring110 is made of steel. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thepriming spring110 may be manufactured by coiling, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thepriming spring110 is manufactured by coiling.
• FIGS. 12A to 12E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of agear120 in amultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• Thegear120 in themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end121 and aproximal end122. Thegear120 may include acentral passage123 over its entire length, through which theshaft83 of thepiston seat80 may at least partially extend. A portion of thecentral passage123 may also include a keyed shape configured to interface with theshaft83 of thepiston seat80. For example, thecentral passage123 of thegear120 may include at least oneflat surface124, preferably two diametrically opposedflat surfaces124, configured to engage with theshaft83. For example, the at least oneflat surface124 of thegear120 may engage the at least oneflat surface89 of theshaft83 of thepiston seat80. In addition, thegear120 may include aflange125 configured to engage with a spring element. For example, theflange125 of thegear120 may engage a proximal end of aclick spring130. Thegear120 may also includeangled teeth126 facing theproximal end122 of thegear120, which angledteeth126 may be configured to engage with aspiral sleeve140 and apush button150.
• Thegear120 may be made of polyoxymethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thegear120 is made of polyoxymethylene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thegear120 may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thegear120 is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 13A to 13C illustrate an exemplary embodiment of aclick spring130 in amultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• Theclick spring130 in themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end131 and aproximal end132. Theclick spring130 may be situated over a length of theshaft83 of thepiston seat80, and over adistal end121 of thegear120. Thedistal end131 of theclick spring130 may be received in theannular channel106 of thespiral100, and theproximal end132 of theclick spring130 may abut against a distal surface of theflange125 of thegear120. Theclick spring130 may be configured to apply force between the spiral100 and thegear120, such that thespiral100 is pushed in a distal direction and thegear120 is pushed in a proximal direction. The spring rate of theclick spring130 may be configured to provide for positive feedback during operation of themultistage actuator section13.
• Theclick spring130 may be made of steel, and other suitable materials. Preferably, theclick spring130 is made of steel. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, theclick spring130 may be manufactured by coiling, or other suitable processes. Preferably, theclick spring130 is manufactured by coiling.
• FIGS. 14A to 14E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of aspiral sleeve140 in amultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• Thespiral sleeve140 in themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end141 and aproximal end142. Thespiral sleeve140 may include acentral cavity143 over its entire length, inside of which theshaft83 of thepiston seat80, thespiral100, thegear120, theclick spring130, and apush button150 may each be at least partially situated. Theproximal end142 of thespiral sleeve140 may includeexternal ribs144 configured to engage with thecenterband20,20′. For example, theexternal ribs144 of thespiral sleeve140 may engage theinternal grooves25 of thecenterband20,20′. Alternatively, thespiral sleeve140 may include threads instead ofexternal ribs144 for attachment to theproximal end22 of thecenterband20,20′. Thedistal end141 of thespiral sleeve140 may include at least onesnap groove145, preferably two diametricallyopposed snap grooves145, configured to receive the at least onesnap element107 of thespiral100, thereby securing thespiral100 to thespiral sleeve140. Further, thespiral sleeve140 may also includeangled teeth146 facing thedistal end141 of thespiral sleeve140, which angledteeth146 may be configured to engage with theangled teeth126 of thegear120. Moreover, thespiral sleeve140 may also include at least onelocking groove147, preferably two diametrically opposed lockinggrooves147, configured to receive at least one locking element of thepush button150.
• Thespiral sleeve140 may be made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, styrene acrylonitrile, polyoxymethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thespiral sleeve140 is made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thespiral sleeve140 may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thespiral sleeve140 is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIGS. 15A to 15E illustrate an exemplary embodiment of apush button150 in amultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention.
• Thepush button150 in themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′ may include adistal end151 and aproximal end152. Thepush button150 may include acentral cavity153, inside of which theshaft83 of thepiston seat80 and thegear120 may be at least partially situated. Thedistal end151 of thepush button150 may includeangled teeth154 facing thedistal end151 of thepush button150, which angledteeth154 may be configured to engage with theangled teeth126 of thegear120. Further, thepush button150 may also include at least onelocking element155, preferably two diametrically opposed lockingelements155, configured to engage at least onelocking groove147 of thespiral sleeve140. Moreover, theproximal end152 of thepush button150 may be configured to facilitate comfortable operation of themultistage actuator section13 of thedevice10,10′, and may include features on its external surface to facilitate grasping, pulling, pushing, twisting, or otherwise manipulating thecap70,70′, such as, for example, ribs, grooves, indentations, gripping pads or surfaces, rubberized portions, and other similar features.
• Thepush button150 may be made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, styrene acrylonitrile, polyoxymethylene, and other suitable materials. Preferably, thepush button150 is made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. In addition, the materials may be chosen based on the particular application and requirements of thedevice10,10′, as well as the particular formulation that is to be dispensed. Further, thepush button150 may be manufactured by injection molding, or other suitable processes. Preferably, thepush button150 is manufactured by injection molding.
• FIG. 16 illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a clickpen applicator device10,10′ according to the present invention.
• In the foregoing description, it is understood that the particular descriptions of grooves of one component and ribs/elements of another component may be switched, such that ribs/elements may be provided in place of grooves, and vice versa. Further, it is understood that other connection mechanisms besides ribs and grooves, snap elements and grooves, locking elements and grooves, or threads, may be used to effect the interengagement of the various components of thedevice10,10′, such as, for example, other mechanical engagement features, press-fitting, interference fitting, adhesive, and others.
• The assembled clickpen applicator device10,10′ may be substantially airtight to prevent evaporation and/or weight loss of the formulation stored in thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′. In this regard, the sealingelement40 situated in theannular groove94 of thecup90, the sealingelement40 situated in theannular groove36 of the passingseat30,30′,30″, and thepintel74 of thecap70,70′ may all contribute to the airtight sealing of the formulation in thestorage chamber26. In addition, the two sealingelements40 may be the same or different sizes depending on the parts and interface to be sealed. Further, thedevice10,10′ may also include tape around the outside of thecap70,70′ to cover and/or seal the interface between thecap70,70′ and thecenterband20,20′. Moreover, the formulation stored in thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′ may also be provided in a bag, pouch, or similar container to further improve the airtight sealing of the formulation within thedevice10,10′.
• Thedevice10,10′ may be hand assembled, which assembly may be facilitated by tools, jigs, and other suitable assembly aids. Alternatively, all or portions of thedevice10,10′ may be assembled by an automated system.
• A method of using the clickpen applicator device10,10′ according to the present invention may include the steps of priming the formulation at a priming rate, and dosing the formulation at a dosing rate. The clickpen applicator device10,10′ having amultistage actuator section13 according to the present invention may allow for rapid priming using a click dosage mechanism.
• In an initial, e.g., purchased, state of thedevice10,10′, all components of thedevice10,10′ are assembled. In thestorage section12, thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′ may be substantially filled with a formulation, e.g., a salicylic acid compound such as a wart remover formulation. In theapplicator section11, some of the formulation may contact theproximal end52 of theorifice reducer50,50′, and further, some of the formulation may be present within thecentral passage53 of theorifice reducer50,50′. However, in order to prevent overflow and/or spillage during initial assembly of thedevice10,10′ having the formulation in thestorage chamber26, an air gap may be present between the distal fill level of the formulation and theproximal end52 of theorifice reducer50,50′ in the initial, purchased state. In themultistage actuator section13, thepiston seat80 andcup90 may be in their most proximal position in the initial, purchased state of thedevice10,10′. That is, the priming threadedportion84amay be engaged with theinternal threads104 of thespiral100, thereby positioning thecup90 in its most proximal position and also compressing thepriming spring110 between thepiston seat80 and thespiral100.
• Further, in the initial, purchased state of thedevice10,10′, thepush button150 may be in its locked position, in which thepush button150 is rotated about a longitudinal axis of thedevice10,10′ such that the at least onelocking element155 of thepush button150 may be received in the at least onelocking groove147 of thespiral sleeve140. Before using thedevice10,10′, if thepush button150 is in the locked position, thepush button150 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of thedevice10,10′ such that the at least onelocking element155 of thepush button150 is no longer received in the at least onelocking groove147 of thespiral sleeve140.
• The priming step prior to dosing of the formulation may allow the formulation to fill any air gaps and/or empty volume of thestorage section12 and/or theapplicator section11. For example, during the priming step, the formulation may fill in any air gap between the distal fill level in thestorage chamber26 and theproximal end52 of theorifice reducer50,50′. In addition, the formulation may fill the empty volumes of thecentral passage53 of theorifice reducer50,50′ and substantially all of thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30,30′,30″. Further, the formulation may also partially fill the empty volume of theorifice65 of thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″. Thus, the priming step allows the formulation to be primed and ready for use by a user during the dosing step.
• The priming step may be performed by themultistage actuator section13 at a priming rate. Thedevice10,10′ may be primed from its initial, purchased state by pressing thepush button150 of themultistage actuator section13, i.e., the click pen dosage mechanism. Each press of thepush button150 may move thepiston seat80 and thecup90 in a distal direction at the rate of a dosing click, thereby advancing the formulation and filling some of the air gaps and/or empty volume in thestorage section12 and/or theapplicator section11 by a dosing amount. After a first actuation of thepush button150, the priming threadedportion84aof thepiston seat80 may disengage from theinternal threads104 of thespiral100. Due to the force of thepriming spring110 pushing thepiston seat80 in a distal direction away from thespiral100, thepiston seat80 and thecup90 may move in a distal direction after disengagement of the priming threadedportion84aand theinternal threads104. In addition, after such disengagement of the priming threadedportion84a, because thepiston seat80 includes an unthreadedportion88 to which theinternal threads104 of the spiral100 do not engage, the force of thepriming spring110 may advance thepiston seat80 and the cup90 a distance substantially equivalent to the length of the unthreadedportion88 of thepiston seat80, thereby effecting rapid priming of the formulation using the same click pen dosing mechanism. Thus, the disengagement of the priming threadedportion84aand the rapid advancement of thepiston seat80 and thecup90 under force of thepriming spring110 over the unthreadedlength88 of thepiston seat80 facilitates rapid filling of the air gaps and/or empty volume in thestorage section12 and/or theapplicator section11.
• Accordingly, the priming step at the priming rate according to the present invention allows thedevice10,10′ to be primed and ready for use by a user very quickly and efficiently. The first priming actuation may take up an empty volume of thedevice10,10′ that would have normally required many, e.g., forty to seventy or more, individual actuations using a conventional actuating mechanism. However, the priming step according to the present invention is substantially transparent to the user because the user simply actuates themultistage actuating section13 in a known manner, i.e., by pressing thepush button150. No additional or different steps or actuations are required by the user to effect rapid priming. The rapid priming also eliminates the possibility that a user may think a dispensing device is broken, non-functional, empty, dried up, or otherwise unusable due to the high number of required priming actuations before dosing of the formulation actually begins.
• Although the above description refers to a first actuation of the priming step that leads to disengagement of the priming threadedportion84aand theinternal threads104, the first actuation may include more than one actuation of thepush button150 before disengagement depending upon the number of threads in the priming threadedportion84aand the rate of rotation of the click mechanism. Preferably, fewer than ten, and more preferably, only one or two, actuations of thepush button150 may be required to effect disengagement of the priming threadedportion84aand theinternal threads104. The number of actuations required to effect such disengagement may depend on the length of the priming threadedportion84a, for example, one turn of threads, preferably a three-quarter turn or a half turn.
• Further, the priming rate may depend on the dimension of the unthreadedlength88 of thepiston seat80, the spring rate of thepriming spring110, the friction force of the sealingelement40, and/or the viscosity or other characteristics of the formulation. For example, the unthreadedlength88 of thepiston seat80 may be sized such that the air gaps and/or empty volume of thestorage section12 and/or theapplicator section11 may be substantially filled when thepiston seat80 and thecup90 advance in a distal direction over the unthreadedlength88 of thepiston seat80. In addition, the spring rate of thepriming spring110 may be configured to provide sufficient force to advance thepiston seat80 and thecup90, taking into consideration the friction force of the sealingelement40 engaged between thecup90 and thecenterband20,20′, and the viscosity and other characteristics of the formulation.
• After disengagement of the priming threadedportion84aand theinternal threads104, and after advancement of thepiston seat80 and thecup90 over an unthreadedlength88 of thepiston seat80, the dosing threadedportion84bof thepiston seat80 may then engage theinternal threads104 of thespiral100 upon further actuations of thepush button150. In order to fully effect priming of thedevice10,10′ before the formulation is ready to be dispensed, the priming step may require one or more actuations of thepush button150 after engagement of the dosing threadedportion84bwith theinternal threads104, although it may be preferable that thedevice10,10′ is ready to dispense the formulation without any such additional actuations.
• The dosing step may be performed by themultistage actuator section13 at a dosing rate. The formulation may be dosed with each actuation of thepush button150 after the dosing threadedportion84bof thepiston seat80 has engaged theinternal threads104 of thespiral100. Each press of thepush button150 may move thepiston seat80 and thecup90 in a distal direction, thereby advancing and dispensing a predetermined dose of the formulation from thestorage chamber26 of thecenterband20,20′ through thecentral passage53 of theorifice reducer50,50′, through thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30,30′,30″, and out of theorifice65 of thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″.
• The dosing rate may depend on the pitch of the dosing threadedportion84bof thepiston seat80 and the corresponding pitch of theinternal threads104 of thespiral100. For example, the pitch of the dosing threadedportion84band theinternal threads104 may be configured such that a single actuation of thepush button150 dispenses a predetermined dose of the formulation from thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″.
• Accordingly, thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention allows for both rapid priming of the formulation for quick and reliable use after purchase, and also predetermined dosing of the formulation thereafter, while utilizing a click dosage mechanism with amultistage actuator section13. Thus, thedevice10,10′ drastically improves the priming rate of thedevice10,10′ while simultaneously providing precise control of the dosing rate, but does so without complicating the steps for using thedevice10,10′.
• When a user wishes to store thedevice10,10′ after use, thedevice10,10′ may be stored in an airtight manner to prevent evaporation and/or weight loss of the formulation, and may also be locked to prevent inadvertent or accidental dispensing of the formulation. In this regard, acap70,70′ may be placed over the passingseat30,30′,30″ andnose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ and engaged with thedistal end21 of thecenterband20,20′. For airtight storage, thecap70,70′ may include apintel74 that may be configured to fit snugly within and at least partially extend into theorifice65 of thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″, and may at least partially extend into thecentral passage33 of the passingseat30,30′,30″. Thecap70,70′ may also protect thenose60,60′,60″,60′″,60″″ and thebrushes66 from damage. For locking of thedevice10,10′, thepush button150 may be rotated about a longitudinal axis of thedevice10,10′ such that the at least onelocking element155 of thepush button150 may be received in the at least onelocking groove147 of thespiral sleeve140. Accordingly, thedevice10,10′ according to the present invention may be safely and securely stored with minimal risk of evaporation, weight loss, and accidental operation.
• The foregoing description discloses only non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. Modification of the above-disclosed exemplary click pen applicator device, and a method of using the same, which fall within the scope of the invention, will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
• Accordingly, while the present invention has been disclosed in connection with the above non-limiting embodiments, it should be understood that other embodiments may fall within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:

1. A device for dispensing a formulation comprising:

a centerband having a proximal end and a distal end and defining a storage section having the formulation disposed within;

an applicator section situated at the distal end of the centerband; and

a multistage actuator section situated at the proximal end of the centerband for rapid priming with a click dispensing mechanism with a piston seat having two sets of external threads on a shaft with an unthreaded length therebetween.

2. The device according toclaim 1, wherein the multistage actuator section comprises:

a spiral having internal threads configured to engage with the external threads of the piston seat; and

a priming spring operatively engaged between the piston seat and the spiral.

3. The device according toclaim 2, wherein the two sets of external threads of the piston seat have a same pitch.

4. The device according toclaim 2, wherein a first set of the two sets of external threads includes a length shorter than that of a second set of the two sets of external threads.

5. The device according toclaim 2, wherein a pitch of a second set of the two sets of external threads is configured to dispense a discrete dose with each dispensing actuation.

6. The device according toclaim 2, wherein the priming spring is configured to expand over the unthreaded length of the piston seat when the internal threads of the spiral do not engage the external threads of the piston seat.

7. The device according toclaim 2, wherein the multistage actuator section further comprises:

a cup attached to a distal end of the piston seat;

a seal between the cup and the proximal end of the centerband;

a gear operatively engaged with the shaft of the piston seat;

a click spring operatively disposed between the gear and the spiral; and

a spiral sleeve and a push button operatively engaged with the gear, the push button having a locking element.

8. The device according toclaim 7, wherein the applicator section comprises:

a passing seat attached to the distal end of the centerband;

a seal between the passing seat and the distal end of the centerband;

an orifice reducer situated inside the passing seat;

a nose attached to a distal end of the passing seat; and

a cap attached to the distal end of the centerband.

9. The device according toclaim 8, wherein the cap includes a pintel configured to seal at least one of the nose and the passing seat of the applicator section.

10. The device according toclaim 8, wherein the seal between the cup and the proximal end of the centerband is an o-ring, and the seal between the passing seat and the distal end of the centerband is an o-ring.

11. The device according toclaim 1, wherein the formulation comprises salicylic acid.

12. A method of priming and dosing a formulation using a click pen dispensing device, the method comprising:

priming the formulation at a priming rate using a click actuator with a piston seat having two sets of external threads on a shaft with an unthreaded length therebetween; and

dosing the formulation at a dosing rate different from the priming rate using the click actuator.

13. The method according toclaim 12, wherein the click actuator is actuated using one hand.

14. The method according toclaim 12, wherein the click actuator includes a locking element for preventing the priming and the dosing.

15. The method according toclaim 12, wherein the formulation comprises salicylic acid.

16. The method according toclaim 12, wherein the priming step includes at least one fine priming rate and a gross priming rate.

17. The method according toclaim 12, wherein the dosing step dispenses a predetermined dose of the formulation, and the priming step dispenses a predetermined priming dose of the formulation.

18. A method of dispensing a formulation, using a device comprising a centerband having a proximal end and a distal end and defining a storage section having the formulation disposed within, an applicator section situated at the distal end of the centerband, and a multistage actuator section situated at the proximal end of the centerband, the method comprising:

priming the device by priming actuations of the multistage actuator section with a piston seat having two sets of external threads on a shaft with an unthreaded length therebetween, the priming step comprising a gross priming actuation displacing a volume greater than that of a predetermined dose;

dispensing the predetermined dose of the formulation, via the applicator section, by subsequent dispensing actuations of the multistage actuator section; and

applying the predetermined dose via the applicator section.

19. The method according toclaim 18, wherein the priming step comprises at least one fine priming actuation displacing a volume less than that of the gross priming actuation.

20. The method according toclaim 18, wherein the priming step comprises at least one fine priming actuation displacing a volume equal to that of the predetermined dose.

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