Closed Loop Connectors for Distribution Systems

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a closed-loop dispensing system that includes a connector connectable to a container for selectively dispensing fluid from the container. The connector includes an outer cap having a first passageway with an inner surface. The first passage may have a variable cross-sectional area over different regions of the first passage. The connector includes a plug slidably movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the plug allows passage of fluid present in the container in the open position and the plug is in the closed position in position to prevent passage of fluid out of the container. The plug may have a variable cross-sectional area, preventing the plug from disengaging from the outer cap or sliding out of the connector and into the container.

Description

[0001] related application [0002] This application claims priority to US Application Serial No. 14 / 628,572, filed February 23, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. technical field [0003] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for dispensing systems, and more particularly to packaged connectors for dispensing systems. Background technique [0004] Dispensing systems are often used to dispense fluids, such as cleaning solutions (e.g., cleaners, antiseptics, disinfectants, etc.), medical products (e.g., administered intravenously during medical procedures), from containers with connectors (e.g., bottles). fluids) and the like. The connector may be connected to the tubing and allow the passage of fluid stored in the container during use of the dispensing system. A dispensing probe, hand pump, and / or nozzle may be connected to the connector for dispensing an amount of chemical fluid (eg, hand sanitizer)...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

For example, connectors intended for use with rigid bottles cannot be used interchangeably with those for flexible packs, and connectors intended for inverted containers cannot be adapted for upright containers

Lack of a common design for connectors can lead to logistical difficulties when users attempt to switch from one type of container (e.g., an upright container) to a different type (e.g., an inverted container) to allow more efficient dispensing

Connectors containing metal springs and valves are also not environmentally safe as these components cannot be recycled

For example, the user may not be able to disassemble the dispensing system to separate the recyclable components of the dispensing system from the non-recyclable components, ultimately making it impossible to recycle the dispensing system at all

Additionally, due to the complexities involved in assembling and disassembling dispensing systems that contain many different components, users may not follow safety precautions during filling, use, storage, and placement of chemicals (e.g., corrosive chemicals such as biocides). program

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