US20250263205A1

US20250263205A1 - Dispensing containter with brush applicator

Info

Publication number: US20250263205A1
Application number: US18/444,160
Authority: US
Inventors: Fang-Pin Chen
Original assignee: Cartell Chemical Ltd
Current assignee: Cartell Chemical Ltd
Priority date: 2024-02-16
Filing date: 2024-02-16
Publication date: 2025-08-21

Abstract

A squeezable dispensing container for accommodating and applying liquid adhesive includes a main body having a nozzle with a dispensing orifice therein and a separate brush applicator including a brush that is selectively connectable to the nozzle. To enable selective connection of the components, the nozzle tip and the brush applicator can form a cooperative coupling structure. To dispense the liquid adhesive, the brush applicator may include a ferrule defining a channeling bore establishing fluid communication between the dispensing orifice and the proximate end of the brush retained in the ferrule. The liquid adhesive may flow through or around the brush to the surface or substrate to which it should be applied.

Description

BACKGROUND

Cyanoacrylates are a family of strong, fast acting adhesive glues that quickly form strong, irreversible bonds. Cyanoacrylates are initially in a liquid state and contain monomers that rapidly polymerize upon exposure to moist or humid air. The molecular chains intertwine and link to form strong bonds resulting in a rigid structure. In liquid form, cyanoacrylates may be transparent and typically have viscosities on the order of 1 to 2500 centipoise that enables the adhesive to be cast onto a part as a liquid that can freely flow to fill gaps prior to hardening. Cyanoacrylates are used as adhesives in a variety of applications in industry, medicine, household uses, and the like. Examples of cyanoacrylates are available in variations including methyl 2-cyanoacrylate, ethyl-2-cyanoacrylate, butyl cyanoacrylate, and octyl cyanoacrylate, but are often commercially referred to as a family as “super glues.”
Because they rapidly polymerize in the presence of moist air, cyanoacrylates are typically distributed in hermetically sealed containers of a non-reactive material to preserve the adhesive in its liquid state. Examples of suitable dispensing containers include small tubes and tube-like bottles made of thin-walled, pliable plastic or non-brittle metallic enclosures from which the adhesive can be extruded by, for example, squeezing. Prior to applying the adhesive, the hermetic container must be opened, for example, by piercing or cutting an opening through which the liquid adhesive can be dispensed. A tapered nozzle may be provided at one end of the dispensing container that is configured to be cut or pierced for the purpose of controllably directing and applying the cyanoacrylate adhesive as droplets or a bead onto a surface.
In some applications, it may be desirable to apply adhesive over a wider surface area than is possible with a nozzle. To satisfy such an application, liquid adhesive is sometime provided in jars in which a brush and handle to attached to the cap of the jar. When the cap is attached to the jar, for example, by a threaded connection or the like, the brush extends into the adhesive contained therein.
Because of the rapidity at which cyanoacrylate adhesives set and harden, it is desirable that when in the liquid state they are maintained in an isolated state to avoid unintended contamination that may initiate polymerization. It is also possible that the adhesive may harden proximate to the piercing or opening, thereby creating a blockage and requiring the user to re-pierce or recut another opening into the nozzle, or may polymerize and harden on the brush rendering it inoperable. The present application is directed to an improved dispensing container to remedy the aforementioned problems and others as described herein.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The disclosure describes a squeezable dispensing container for accommodating and applying liquid adhesive and similar contents. The squeezable dispensing container can include a main body that defines an internal volume for accommodating the liquid adhesive and a forward dispensing end that may have an nozzle terminating in a dispensing orifice though which the liquid adhesive can exit the dispensing container. In accordance with the disclosure, the squeezable dispensing container can be provided via commercial distribution with a brush applicator as a separate component. If it is desired to apply the liquid adhesive over a relatively wide area of a surface or substrate, the brush applicator can be selectively connected to the forward dispensing end. The brush applicator can include a brush of the conventional type, for example, including bristles or fluid permeable foam, and a rigid ferrule that retains the brush. The rigid ferrule and the nozzle of the forward dispensing end can form a cooperative coupling structure to connect the brush applicator to the squeezable dispensing container. To enable liquid adhesive to flow through the brush applicator, the rigid ferrule can include a tubular barrel defining a channeling bore that establishes fluid communication between the dispensing orifice and the brush.
As stated, the brush applicator can be provided as a component separate from the rest of the dispensing container, for example, in the same commercial packaging but unconnected to the dispensing container. A possible advantage of providing the dispensing container and the brush applicator as separate components is that the brush is not exposed to the liquid adhesive in the internal volume prior to the time of application. The liquid adhesive, especially if a fast setting cyanoacrylate, may prematurely polymerize and harden on the brush if the two are maintained in contact prior to the point of use. Another possible advantage is that the brush applicator, which may be detachable from the nozzle, can be disconnected and discarded after use. Thereafter, if it is desired to dispense more liquid adhesive from the squeezable dispensing container, another fresh brush applicator can be connected thereto. Accordingly, the setting of liquid adhesive on the initial brush applicator will not hinder or prevent subsequent use of the squeezable dispensing container to apply adhesive. These and other advantages and features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a dispensing container in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure having a tubular shape with an internal volume for containing a dispensable liquid adhesive such as cyanoacrylate.

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the dispensing container of FIG. 1 showing the nozzle of the dispensing container being aligned with a brush applicator that is connectable to the nozzle to fluidly communicate with a dispensing orifice therein.

FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the dispensing container of FIGS. 1 and 2 showing the brush applicator connected to the nozzle by, for example, a cooperative coupling structure so that liquid adhesive can be dispensed through the brush applicator.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are a perspective view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of an embodiment of the brush applicator configured to direct and dispense liquid adhesive there through when connected to the dispensing container.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are a perspective view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of another embodiment of the brush applicator configured to direct and dispense liquid adhesive there through when connected to the dispensing container.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are a perspective view and cross-sectional view, respectively, of another embodiment of the brush applicator configured to direct and dispense liquid adhesive there through when connected to the dispensing container.

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of a dispensing container in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure in the form of a collapsible squeeze tube for containing a dispensable liquid adhesive.

FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the dispensing container of FIG. 10 showing the nozzle of the dispensing tube being aligned with a brush applicator.

FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the dispensing container of FIGS. 10 and 11 showing the brush applicator connected to the nozzle by, for example, a cooperative coupling structure so that liquid adhesive can be dispensed through the brush applicator.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Now referring to the figures, wherein whenever possible like reference numbers will refer to like elements, there is illustrated in FIG. 1 a squeezable dispensing container 100 for the distribution and application of liquid adhesive like cyanoacrylate glues and other fast polymerizing adhesives. In accordance with the disclosure, squeezable dispensing containers 100 of the type described herein are classified as pliable or deformable tubular containers that can be deformed by, for example, squeezing by hand pressure, to expel the contents therein. Squeezable dispensing containers can further be categorized as dispensing containers that can generally recover their initial shape after deformation by squeezing and those dispensing containers whose shape is permanently deformed or distorted by squeezing. The squeezable dispensing container 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 can be of the former type that may generally recover its initial shape after being partially collapsed by squeezing, although in other embodiments, it may be permanently deformed.
Preferably, the squeezable dispensing container 100 functions as both the container for bulk distribution of adhesive to the point of sale and as a tool for application of adhesive in use. As packaging, the exterior of the squeezable dispensing container 100 may include indicia such as logos and instructions for use. The squeezable dispensing container 100 can include a hollow main body 102 and a cap 104 that can be releasably attached to a forward end of the hollow main body 102. To accommodate the adhesive, the hollow main body 102 can define an internal volume 106 enclosed by the peripheral sidewall 108 of the main body that functions as a reservoir for storing adhesives in a liquid state. The main body 102 can be tubular in shape and can extend between a rear end 110 that may be configured for filling the internal volume 106 and a forward dispensing end 112. The tubular shape of the main body 102 defines an axis 114 that extends longitudinally between the rear end 110 and the forward dispensing end 112.
The hollow main body 102 can be cylindrical in shape such that the peripheral sidewall 108 is annular and concentrically disposed around the axis 114, although in other embodiments, the hollow main body 102 can have other suitable shapes such as, for example, oval. An advantage of the cylindrical shape of the hollow main body 102 is that it facilities handling and manipulation of the squeezable dispensing container 100 by hand of a user. To enable squeezing and deformation of the squeezable dispensing container 100, the peripheral sidewall 108 may be of a thin-walled construction as indicated by the dashed lines outlining the internal volume 106. The dimensional thickness of the peripheral sidewall 108 can depend upon the degree of deformability desired and may be dependent upon the viscosity of the liquid adhesive to be dispensed from the container.
To fill the internal volume 106 with liquid adhesive, the rear end 110 can be configured as an opened filling end that provides access to the internal volume through a filling opening 120. The filling opening 120 may be associated with the rearward cuff end of the tubular shaped, peripheral sidewall 108 and can be circular and concentric with the axis 114. To seal the filling opening 120 after introducing the liquid adhesive to the internal volume 106, a stopper 122 can be attached to the rear end 110. The stopper 122 can be a cap-like plug having an external diameter similar to that of the hollow main body 102 and can be configured to be partially inserted via a force fit into the internal volume 106 so that the stopper 122 is partially surrounded and securely retained by the peripheral sidewall 108. In other embodiments, the stopper 122 may be ultrasonically welded or otherwise joined to the peripheral sidewall 108 to join the stopper to the rear end 110. In an embodiment, the stopper 122 can define a planar exterior end face 124 normal to the axis 114 that allows the squeezable dispensing container 100 to stand vertically on the rear end 110 during use to avoid unintended discharge of liquid adhesive.
To facilitate dispensing of the liquid adhesive, the forward dispensing end 112 can include a generally tapered nozzle 130 configured to guide and control the direction of fluid flow from the hollow main body 102. For example, the nozzle 130 may protrude axially forward from the main body 102 concentric to the axis 114 and can have a gradually decreasing diameter with respect to the main body 102. The tapered nozzle 130 thus has the general shape of a tapering cone, the shape of which may facilitate application of the liquid adhesive by enabling access into tight places. The diameter of tapered nozzle 130 can progressively reduce to terminate at a distally forward most nozzle tip 132 that include a rim defining a dispensing orifice 134. The rim of the nozzle tip 132 and the dispensing orifice 134 can be circular in shape and can be concentric to the axis 114, although other shapes are contemplated. In addition, the nozzle may have other shapes and configurations beyond being tapered.
To connect the nozzle 130 with the main body 120, the forward dispensing end 112 can also include a bridge-like intermediate stem 140 that can have a substantially consistent diameter over its axial length and that is joined to the peripheral sidewall 108 at an annular shoulder 142 that is generally normal to the axis 114. The nozzle 130 and intermediate stem 140 are symmetrically concentric with respect to the axis 114 and delineate an interior dispensing channel 144 that establishes fluid communication between the internal volume 106 and the dispensing orifice 134. The surfaces or walls that define the nozzle 130 and the intermediate stem 140 can have a construction relatively thicker than the peripheral sidewall 108 so that the forward dispensing end 112 is generally more rigid than the compressible main body 102 of the squeezable dispensing container 100. The forward dispensing end 112 can thus maintain its general shape and configuration when the hollow main body 102 is squeezed or deformed to dispense adhesive. As described further below, the intermediate stem 140 can also have disposed into its exterior surface one or more annular grooves 146 that encircle the axis 114 and that are axially located between the tapered nozzle 130 and the annular shoulder 142 connecting the intermediate stem 140 to the main body 102.
To enclose and seal the dispensing orifice 134, a detachable knob 150 can be integrally joined to the distal end of the nozzle 130, for example, at the nozzle tip 132, although as described below other methods and structures may be used to close and seal the dispensing orifice 134 in other embodiments. In the present embodiment, the detachable knob 150 can be a solid, cylindrical structure that, when joined to the tapered nozzle 130, blocks fluid flow through the dispensing orifice 134. As used herein, the integral joinder between the tapered nozzle 130 and the detachable knob 150 means they can be mutually united together as a contiguous, single component, for example, by being formed from a continuous piece of material. In an embodiment, the main body 102 and the detachable knob 150 can be formed by the same molding charge or shot, for example, when formed from plastic. Blocking the dispensing orifice 134 with the detachable knob 150 integrally joined to the tapered nozzle 130 facilitates filling the main body 102 with fluid adhesive through the rear end 110 since the internal volume 106 is hermetically enclosed at the forward dispensing end 112 by the knob prior to the filling step. In other embodiments, the detachable knob 150 can be formed separately and connected to the nozzle tip 132 of the tapering nozzle 130, for example, when formed from metal.
To enable detachment of the detachable knob 150 from the nozzle 130, the two structures can be joined by a frangible neck 152. The frangible neck 152 can form the intersection between the nozzle tip 132 and the base of the detachable knob 150 and can be located proximate to and encircle the dispensing orifice 134 enclosed by the detachable knob 150. The frangible neck 152 can have a thickness and diameter that is reduced compared to the detachable knob 150, resulting in a reduction of material at the location of the frangible neck. The reduction of material results in a weakened intersection between the nozzle tip 132 and the detachable knob 150. Accordingly, when a twisting force is applied to the detachable knob 150 as rotation with respect to the axis 114, the frangible neck 152 can fracture such that the detachable knob 150 breaks away from the nozzle 130 unsealing and opening the dispensing orifice 134.
In an embodiment, to selectively enclose the nozzle 130 and the dispensing orifice 134 when the squeezable dispensing container 100 is not in use, the cap 104 can be releasably attached to the forward end 112. For example, the cap 104 can have a generally cylindrical shape with a diameter equal to that of the main body 102 and can define an interior cavity 154 that is accessible via an opened cap end 156. The cap 104 can be axially aligned with the main body 102 and the components axially moved together so that the nozzle 130 and intermediate stem 140 are received into the interior cavity 154 via the opened cap end 156. Preferably, the axial length of the cap 104 corresponds to the axial length of the forward dispensing end 112.
To secure the main body 102 and cap 104, the cap may include one or more annular protrusions or annular rings 158 protruding radially inward into the interior cavity 154 that are axially coextensive with the annular grooves 146 disposed into the intermediate stem 140. Further, the annular groove 146 and the annular rings 158 can have generally corresponding diameters. When the forward dispensing end 112 is fully inserted into the interior cavity 154, the annular rings 158 axially align with and can be received in the annular grooves 146 to cooperatively form a snap-fit connection.
In some applications, the presence and shape of the tapering nozzle 130 may be desirable as it facilitates application of the liquid adhesive, for example, because the nozzle enable focusing the dispensed adhesive toward the intended location for the adhesive in individual droplets, a continuous bead, or another form. In other words, the nozzle 130 directs the adhesive to the surfaces where the nozzle is placed. In other applications, it may be desirable to spread the dispensed adhesive over a wider area than can be done with a tapered nozzle 130. Brushes are a known tool for dispensing adhesives and other liquids onto a surface or other substrate and, depending upon the shape and configuration, can apply an even coat of liquid to relatively large area compared to a nozzle. Accordingly, the disclosed squeezable dispensing container 100 can be selectively configured with an brush applicator 160 through which the liquid adhesive accommodated in the internal volume 106 of the main body 102 can be dispensed.
Referring to FIG. 2 , the brush applicator 160 can be a separate component of the squeezable dispensing container 100 that can be selectively connected to the forward dispensing end 112 of the squeezable dispensing container 100 when the application characteristics of a brush are desired. The brush applicator 160 includes a brush 162 for application of the liquid adhesive and a rigid ferrule 164 for retaining the brush and connecting to the forward dispensing end 112.
The brush 162 can have any suitable configuration for temporarily absorbing then applying the liquid adhesive. For example, to retain and transfer liquid adhesive to a surface or substrate, the brush 162 can include a plurality of bristles 166 held adjacently together. The bristles 166 can be made from natural filaments such as animal hair or can be synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, or other polymeric materials. The filament-like bristles 166 are aligned together and retentively held together at their proximal ends with their distal ends free or unconstrained. Liquid adhesive can be temporarily absorbed and retained between the adjacent bristles 166 and, when the brush 162 is placed against and moved along a surface or substrate, the liquid adhesive is transferred to the surface or substrate when the free distal ends of the bristles disperse with respect to each other. The adjacent bristles 166 of the brush 162 may be arranged in a round or cylindrical configuration, i.e., a round brush, although in other embodiments, the brush 162 may have other shapes such as flat with the plurality of bristles arranged in a rectangular shape.
In another embodiment, the brush 162 can be made from a fluid permeable foam including a plurality of open-cell interconnected voids dispersed in a polymeric matrix such as, for example, flexible polyurethane. The liquid adhesive can be temporally absorbed and retained in the voids of the foam and transferred to the surface or substrate when the brush 162 is pressed there against to collapse the voids.
The ferrule 164 can be a tubular structure such as a barrel 170 having a solid or rigid characteristic relative to the brush 162 and to the peripheral sidewall 108 that is collapsible. The ferrule 164 can extend between a retention end 172 to which the brush 162 is secured and a nozzle coupling end 174 that connected to the forward dispending end 112 of the squeezable dispensing container 100. The retention end 172 of the ferrule 164 can encircle the bristles 166 of the brush 162 to gather and clamp them tightly together and the retention end 172 may annular in shape or have another shape corresponding to the shape of the brush 162. To enable selective connection of the squeezable dispensing container 100 and brush applicator 160, the two components can form a cooperative coupling structure 180 by which they are releasably secured together. Cooperative coupling structures 180 refer to connection methods in which structural features are included on each of two components that can structurally interact to join to the components together. Examples of cooperative coupling structures 180 include but are not limited to snap-fit connections, threaded connections, and others.
For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle coupling end 174 of the tubular barrel 170 can be flared outward and delineate an internal seat 176 that corresponds in shape and dimension with the nozzle tip 132 of the tapered nozzle 130 at the forward dispensing end 112. Accordingly, when the squeezable dispensing container 100 and the brush applicator 160 are moved axially together, the nozzle tip 132 can be received in and accommodated by the internal seat 176 of the barrel 170 in an abutting relationship.
Furthermore, to interlock the components, there can be formed on the internal seat 176 one or more protrusions 182 and formed into the nozzle tip 132 can be one or more corresponding cutouts 184. The protrusions 182 and cutouts 184 are indicated in dashed line. In a preferred embodiment, the protrusions 182 can be arranged as annular rings and the cutouts 184 can be formed as annular grooves, similar to the annular rings 158 on the cap 104 and the annular grooves 146 on the intermediate stem 140. When the nozzle tip 132 is received in the internal seat 176, as shown in FIG. 3 , the annular protrusions 182 are displaced and deflect into the annular cutouts 184 interlocking the applicator brush 160 to the forward dispensing end 112 together. The relative rigidity between the nozzle 130 and the ferrule 164 facilitate cooperative interaction between the protrusions 182 and dimples 184 allowing them to snap together while maintain a sufficiently secure connection to retain brush applicator 160 to the nozzle tip 132 when pressurizing and dispensing adhesive there through. In alternative embodiments, the location of the protrusions 182 and the cutouts 184 can be reversed with the protrusions 182 on the nozzle tip 132 and the cutouts 184 in the tubular barrel 170.
In other embodiments, the protrusions 182 may merely be bumps and the cutouts 184 may merely be dimples to receive the bumps. Still, in other embodiments, the cooperative coupling structure 180 can be a threaded coupling structure in which the internal protrusions 182 include a helical internal thread and the cutouts 184 form a corresponding helical external tread. Relative rotation between the brush applicator 160 and the squeezable dispensing container 100 will engage the threaded internal protrusions 184 and threaded external cutouts 184 interlocking the nozzle tip 132 into the internal seat 176.
When cooperative coupling structure 180 couples and connects the brush applicator 160 to the forward dispensing end 112 as illustrated in FIG. 3 , the brush applicator 160 is aligned with the axis 114 of the squeezable dispensing container 100 and the brush 162 is directed and oriented forwardly of the forward dispensing end 112. Moreover, the tubular barrel 170 of the brush applicator 160 is in direct fluid communication with the opened dispensing orifice 134 disposed in the nozzle tip 132. Accordingly, the brush applicator 160 can receive liquid adhesive accommodated in the internal volume 106 defined by the main body 102.
To direct and communicate the liquid adhesive from the dispensing orifice 134 to the brush 162 through the brush applicator 160, the tubular barrel 170 of the ferrule 164 can include and delineate a channeling bore 190. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the tubular barrel 170 can be a sleeve-like structure cylindrical in shape with the channeling bore 190 disposed there through between the flared nozzle coupling end 174 defining the internal seat 176 and the retaining end 172 retaining the brush 162. The channeling bore 190, or lumen of the tubular barrel 170, can extend along and be aligned with the axis 114 of the squeezable dispensing container when the brush applicator 160 is connected to the forward dispensing end 112 thereof. The channeling bore 190 thereby defines a fluid flow path to channel liquid adhesive in the axially forward direction between the nozzle coupling end 174 and the retention end 172 of the ferrule 164. In the examples where the tubular barrel 170 is cylindrical, the channeling bore 190 may also be cylindrical in shape and concentric with the tubular barrel 170. In the embodiments where the brush 162 of the brush applicator 160 has other shapes such as a flat brush, the channeling bore 190 can have other corresponding shapes such as rectangular.
After the liquid adhesive has flowed through the channeling bore 190 to retention end 172 of the tubular barrel 170 proximate the proximal end of the brush 162, the liquid adhesive can further progress between the adjacent bristles 166 of the brush 162 by a wicking action so that the liquid adhesive emerges from the ferrule 164 and can be deposited on the intended surface. In the embodiments where the dispensing container is a squeeze tube, continued deformation of the main body will pressurize the liquid adhesive in the channeling bore 190 to forcibly drive the adhesive through the brush 162 between the bristles 166. In the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5 , the liquid adhesive can pass through the brush 162 due merely to the loose adhesion between the adjacent bristles 166 retained in the retention end 172 of the tubular barrel 170.
However, in other embodiments, the brush applicator 160 can include features to promote the flow and dispensing of the liquid adhesive from the channeling bore 190. For example, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , the ferrule 164 can include one or more internal flutes 192 disposed in the internal surface of the tubular barrel 170 and are thus exposed to the channeling bore 190. The internal flutes 192 can extend in elongated, straight lines between the coupling end 174 and the brush retention end 172 and are therefore parallel to and aligned with the axis 114, although in other possible embodiments, the internal flute 192 can be helical or partially helical.
At the brush retention end 172, the internal flutes 192 can terminate in and fluidly communicate with a brush bypass passage 194 that extends around and outwardly of the proximal end of the brush 162. In particular, the brush bypass passage 194 can be formed or defined by a radially protruding lobes 196 extending radially outwardly from the brush retention end 172 of the tubular sleeve 170. The protruding lobes 196, which can be integrally formed with the brush retention end 170 of the tubular sleeve 170, can likewise be parallel to and aligned with the axis 114 so that the brush bypass passages 194 function as a continuation of the internal flutes 192. The remaining segments of the of the retention end 172 can have a diameter sufficient to retain and hold the proximal end of the brush 162 to the ferrule 160. The internal flutes 192 and the brush bypass passage 194 thereby define a fluid path beyond and around the proximal end of the brush 162 so that liquid adhesive can be dispensed from the brush applicator 160 without significant hindrance.
The ferrule 164 of the brush applicator 160 can include any suitable number of internal flutes 192 and brush bypass passages 194 and corresponding protruding lobes 196 sufficient to dispense liquid adhesive from the channeling bore 190. For example, in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the ferrule 164 can include two protruding lobes 196 defining the brush bypass passages 194 located 180° opposite each other and in FIGS. 8 and 9 the ferrule 164 can include four protruding lobes 196 defining the brush bypass passages 194 located at 90° orientation with respect to each other. Other numbers of protruding lobes 196 and brush bypass passages 194 are contemplated such as one or three. In addition, the internal flutes 192 may extend the entire axial length of the ferrule 164 or less than the axial length, for example, or only proximate the brush retention end 162.
Referring to FIGS. 10-12 , there is illustrated another embodiment of a squeezable dispensing container 200 for storing and dispensing liquid adhesive such as cyanoacrylate in accordance with the disclosure. The squeezable dispensing container 200 includes a main body 202 and a removable cap 204 that can be releasably attachable to the main body. The main body 202 defines a internal volume 206 for the liquid adhesive and can extend between a rearward end 210 configured for filling the interior and a forward dispensing end 212 configured for dispensing the adhesive. The rearward end 210 and the forward dispensing end 212 of the main body 202 can be oppositely located and define an axis 214 of the squeezable dispensing container 200. In distinction from the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 , the main body 202 can be configured as a squeeze tube that may deformed under pressure and is not intended to return to its original shape.
For example, the peripheral sidewall 208 of the main body 202 can be formed of a flexible pliable material including one or more layers of plastics or non-brittle metals. The peripheral sidewall 208 can assume a circular or oval shape where it connects with the forward dispensing end 212 that, as described above, can have a relatively more rigid construction to retain its shape and dispensing characteristics. However, as the main body 202 extends axially rearward, the peripheral sidewall 208 may flatten to form two parallel surfaces 216, 218 that merge together at the rearward end 210. Accordingly, the parallel surfaces 216, 218 at the rearward end 202 may be adjacent to each other. For filling the internal volume 206, the two parallel surface 216, 218 can be separated to expand the internal volume and liquid adhesive introduced therein. After filling, the rearward end 210 can be closed by folding the two parallel surfaces 216, 218 over each other and crimping them to form a closed crimp 220. Alternatively, the two parallel surface 216, 218 may be welded together.
The forward dispensing end 212 can be configured to controllable dispense adhesive from the internal volume 206 and, in an embodiment, may include a nozzle 230 that projects axially forward of the main body 202. The nozzle 230 may have a reduced diameter compared to that of the main body 202 and can terminate at a nozzle tip 232 of the smallest diameter. The nozzle tip 232 defines a dispensing orifice 234 communicating with the internal volume 206 which the liquid adhesive can be fluidly dispensed. The dispensing orifice 234 may be closed and sealed by a membrane that may thereafter be pierced to open the dispensing orifice 234 allowing the fluid communication of the liquid adhesive.
To disperse the liquid adhesive over a wider area than is possible with a nozzle, the squeezable dispensing container 200 can be selectively configured with a brush applicator 260 as described above. For example, referring to FIG. 11 , the squeezable dispensing container 200 can be provided with the brush applicator 260 as a separate component that can be selectively attached to the forward dispensing end after the dispensing end 234 has been unsealed. The brush applicator 260 includes a brush 262 that is retained in a ferrule 264 configured to be releasably connected to the nozzle 230 of the forward dispensing end 212. In particular, and as described above, the ferrule 264 can be formed as a tubular barrel 270 that includes a nozzle coupling end 274, axially opposite the brush retention end 272, that is configured to receptively seat the nozzle tip 232 in an interior seat 276. To interlockingly mate the two components, the nozzle tip 232 and the nozzle coupling end 274 can cooperatively form any of the aforementioned cooperative coupling structures 280 including a snap fit connection and a threaded connection.
To enable dispensing of the liquid adhesive from the main body 202 through the brush applicator 260 and the brush 262, the tubular barrel 270 of the ferrule 264 can delineate a channeling passage 290. As described above, the channeling passage 290 can axially extend between the nozzle coupling end 274 and the brush retention end 272. When the brush applicator 260 is connected to the forward dispensing end 212, the channeling passage 290 is in fluid communication with the dispensing orifice 234 and can channel or direct liquid adhesive to the brush retention end 272 and proximate to the proximal end of the brushed retained thereat. The liquid adhesive may thereafter progress through or past the brush 262 in accordance with any of the foregoing embodiments of the brush applicator described herein.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e, meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. A squeezable dispensing container for liquid adhesives comprising:

a hollow main body delineating an internal volume for receiving liquid adhesive and extending between a forward dispensing end and a rear end, the forward dispensing end including a nozzle terminating at a dispensing orifice;

a brush applicator selectably connectable to the nozzle, the brush applicator including brush partially retained in a ferrule that is rigid relative to the brush, the ferrule defining a channeling bore to establish fluid communication between the dispensing orifice and the brush when the brush applicator is connected to the nozzle.

2. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, wherein the ferrule and the nozzle form a cooperative coupling structure to selectively connect the brush applicator to the nozzle.

3. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 2, wherein the cooperative coupling structure including a cutout and a protrusion receivable in the cutout.

4. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 3, wherein the cooperative coupling structure is selected from the group comprising a snap-fit connection and a threaded connection.

5. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, wherein the ferrule includes a tubular barrel extending between a brush retention end for retaining the brush and a nozzle coupling end for receiving the nozzle.

6. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 5, wherein the tubular barrel including one or more internal flutes defining brush bypass passages extending around and outwardly of a proximal end of the brush retained in the brush retention end.

7. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 6, wherein the hollow main body defines an axis and the dispensing orifice of the nozzle and the channeling bore of the brush applicator are concentric with the axis.

8. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 7, wherein the internal flutes are parallel with the axis.

9. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 8, wherein the internal flutes are structurally associated with protruding lobes protruding radially outwardly of the brush retention end.

10. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, wherein the nozzle generally tapers with reduced diameter between the hollow main body and the dispensing orifice.

11. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, wherein the hollow main body includes a peripheral sidewall that is cylindrical in shape and is generally recoverable to its initial shape after being compressed.

12. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, wherein the hollow main body includes a peripheral sidewall that is permanently deformable after being compressed.

13. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, wherein the brush includes a plurality of bristles retained in the ferrule.

14. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, wherein the brush includes a fluid permeable foam.

15. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, further comprising a cap releasably attachable to the forward dispensing end, the cap delineating an internal cavity for receiving the nozzle.

16. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 1, wherein the rear end of the main body is configured for filling the internal volume.

17. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 16, wherein the rear end is closed after filling by one of a plug and a crimp.

18. A squeezable dispensing container comprising:

a hollow main body delineating a hollow interior for receiving liquid adhesive, the hollow main body extending between a forward dispensing end and a rear and defining an axis between the forward dispensing end and the rear end, the forward dispensing end including a nozzle tip defining a dispensing orifice concentric to the axis; and

a brush applicator selectively connectable to the nozzle tip, the brush applicator including a brush retained in a ferrule that is rigid relative to the brush, the ferrule defining a channeling bore that is concentric with the axis and establishes fluid communication between the dispensing orifice and the brush when the brush applicator is connected to the nozzle tip.

19. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 18, wherein the ferrule and the nozzle form a cooperative coupling structure to selectively connect the brush applicator to the nozzle.

20. The squeezable dispensing container of claim 18, wherein the ferrule includes a tubular barrel with one or more internal flutes defining brush bypass passages extending around and outwardly of a proximal end of the brush retained in ferrule.