Sausage-type packaging dispensing system, device and method

Abstract

A system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device. The system includes a piercing nozzle attachable to a dispensing end of the dispensing device and a plunger attachable to a plunger rod of the dispensing device, the plunger rod configured to compress the package against the piercing nozzle. The piercing nozzle includes a nozzle sidewall and a nozzle end wall defining an interior nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the package. One or more recessed members extend partially from the recessed member into the interior nozzle cavity. A piercing protrusion pierces the package when compressed against the package, allowing the material in the package to be dispensed through a nozzle opening. An interior nozzle rib can extend across the nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present technology relates to sausage casing dispensing systems, devices and methods for use in connection with dispensing material from a controllably dispensing sausage casing or chub, and more particularly to methods and apparatus relating to a hand-held caulking gun for use with a pierceable sausage casing. The present technology can also relate to an adapter system for use in connection with a dispensing device for dispensing material from a sausage casing. BACKGROUND

[0002] Material dispensing systems are desirable to provide an ergonomic hand-held device that controllably dispenses material having a desired bead size and shape. Caulking or sealing material is known to be used to fill the gaps between buildings. Caulking material can be used indoors and outdoors and can further be painted to seamlessly blend between buildings. There are many different types of caulking material and, in turn, many different types of systems to dispense the caulking material.

[0003] Extrudable packages with nozzle tops can be employed to store and then dispense caulking material. These types of packages typically contain a small amount of material and it can be difficult to control the dispensing of the material.

[0004] Hand-held material dispensing devices, such as caulking guns, are well known and typically rely on the action of a piston to push caulking material out of a caulking tube. Movement of the piston is caused by the advancement of a piston rod in the direction of the caulking tube, where the piston rod is advanced in the direction of travel by the operator pulling a trigger.

[0005] These known devices are designed to receive and carry a disposable caulking tube. To save manufacturing costs, the housing and trigger of these caulking guns are typically formed from stamped sheet metal. The caulking tube typically comprises a rigid cylindrical tube with a sliding piston (plunger) and a nozzle tip, with the material stored within the tube. Due to the different construction elements, caulking tubes are typically more expensive to manufacture than sausage casings. Whereas sausage casings are significantly less expensive and easier to manufacture as they are a container formed from a tube of flexible packaging material that is crimped at both ends after filling.

[0006] To overcome the disadvantages of caulking tubes, manufacturers have developed so-called “sausage casing” or “chub packs” for sealant compositions. In comparison to caulking tubes, sausage casings use less material to manufacture the package and can be made to be air and moisture tight. They also take up less space in a box style package. This enables the sealant composition stored therein to maintain its consistency and usability and reduce the curing of the material. Overall, this can reduce packaging waste as well as the preservation waste of the product within the package.

[0007] While the above-described devices meet their respective, particular objectives and requirements, the foregoing devices or systems do not describe a sausage casing dispensing system that allows for controllably dispensing material from a sausage casing.

[0008] There is a need for a new and novel sausage casing dispensing system that can be used to controllably dispense material from a sausage casing. In this regard, the present technology substantially fulfills this need. In this regard, a sausage casing dispensing system according to the present technology essentially departs from conventional concepts and designs of the prior art, and provides an apparatus primarily developed for the purpose of controllably dispensing material from a sausage casing. SUMMARY

[0009] In view of the above-described shortcomings inherent in the prior art known types of sausage casing dispensing devices, the present technology provides a novel sausage casing dispensing system that overcomes one or more of the above-described shortcomings and drawbacks of the prior art. As a result thereof, it is a general object of the present technology (which will be described more fully subsequently) to provide a new and novel sausage casing dispensing system and method having all the advantages of the foregoing art and many novel features that result in a sausage casing dispensing system which is not anticipated, rendered obvious, suggested, or even implied by the prior art alone or in any combination thereof.

[0010] According to an aspect, the present technology can include an adapter system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device. The adapter system can include a piercing nozzle and a plunger. The piercing nozzle can be attachable to a dispensing end of the dispensing device. The piercing nozzle can include one or more piercing protrusions configured to pierce the collapsible package and allow the dispensing of material in the collapsible package when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device pushes the package toward the piercing nozzle. The plunger can be operatively associated with a plunger rod of the dispensing device. The plunger can be configured to be slidably received in a hollow interior of the package tube and push the collapsible package toward the piercing protrusions.

[0011] According to another aspect, the present technology can include an adapter system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device. The adapter system can include a piercing nozzle and a plunger. The piercing nozzle can be attachable to a dispensing end of the dispensing device. The piercing nozzle can include a nozzle sidewall and a nozzle end wall defining an interior nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the package. One or more recessed members can extend into the interior nozzle cavity. One or more piercing protrusions can extend partially from the one or more recessed members. The one or more piercing protrusions can be configured to pierce the package when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device pushes the package toward the piercing nozzle, thereby allowing the material in the package to be dispensed. An interior nozzle rib can extend across a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall. The plunger can be operably associated with a plunger rod of the dispensing device. The plunger can be configured to be slidably received in a hollow interior of the package tube and to push the collapsible package toward the piercing protrusions.

[0012] According to another aspect, the present technology can include an adapter system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device. The adapter system can include a piercing nozzle and a plunger. The piercing nozzle can be attachable to a dispensing end of the dispensing device. The piercing nozzle can include a nozzle sidewall and a nozzle end wall defining an interior nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the package. One or more recessed members can extend into the interior nozzle cavity. One or more piercing protrusions can extend partially from the one or more recessed members. The one or more piercing protrusions can be configured to pierce the package when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device pushes the package toward the piercing nozzle, thereby allowing the material in the package to be dispensed. An interior nozzle rib can extend across a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall. The plunger can be operably associated with a plunger rod of the dispensing device. The plunger can be configured to be slidably received in a hollow interior of the package tube and to push the collapsible package toward the piercing protrusions.

[0013] According to yet another aspect, the present technology can include a system or device for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device. The system or device can include a piercing nozzle attachable to a dispensing end of the dispensing device. The piercing nozzle can include a nozzle sidewall and a nozzle end wall defining an interior nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the package. One or more recessed members can extend into the interior nozzle cavity. One or more piercing protrusions can extend partially from the one or more recessed members. The one or more piercing protrusions can be configured to pierce the package when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device pushes the package toward the piercing nozzle, thereby allowing the material in the package to be dispensed. An interior nozzle rib can extend across a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall.

[0014] According to yet another aspect, the present technology can include a system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device and a plunger attachable to a plunger rod of the dispensing device. The system can include a piercing nozzle attachable to a dispensing end of the dispensing device. The piercing nozzle can include a nozzle sidewall and a nozzle end wall defining an interior nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the package. One or more recessed members can extend into the interior nozzle cavity. One or more piercing protrusions can extend partially from the one or more recessed members. The one or more piercing protrusions can be configured to pierce the package when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device pushes the package toward the piercing nozzle, thereby allowing the material in the package to be dispensed. An interior nozzle rib can extend across a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall. The plunger can be configured to travel along a longitudinal axis of the dispensing device toward the piercing nozzle to compress the package against the one or more piercing protrusions.

[0015] According to yet another aspect, the present technology can include a system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device. The system can include a dispensing device, a piercing nozzle, and a plunger. The dispensing device can be configured to receive the package between a dispensing end and the plunger. The dispensing device can include a plunger rod drive system configured to advance a plunger rod toward the dispensing end. The piercing nozzle can be attached to the dispensing end of the dispensing device. The piercing nozzle can include a nozzle sidewall and a nozzle end wall defining an interior nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the package. One or more recessed members can extend into the interior nozzle cavity. One or more piercing protrusions can extend partially from the one or more recessed members. The one or more piercing protrusions can be configured to pierce the package when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device pushes the package toward the piercing nozzle, thereby allowing the material in the package to be dispensed. An interior nozzle rib can extend across a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall. The plunger can be attached to the plunger rod of the dispensing device. The plunger can be configured to travel along a longitudinal axis of the dispensing device toward the piercing nozzle to compress the package against the one or more piercing protrusions.

[0016] According to yet another aspect, the present technology can include a method for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device. The method can include the step of placing the collapsible package between a piercing nozzle and a plunger in the dispensing device. Moving the plunger to compress a first end of the collapsible package into a nozzle cavity defined in the piercing nozzle and against one or more piercing protrusions of the piercing nozzle. The nozzle cavity can be defined by a nozzle sidewall and a nozzle end wall of the piercing nozzle. Piercing the first end of the collapsible package by the one or more piercing protrusions. Compressing the collapsible package to cause the material to flow out of the first end of the collapsible package, over an internal nozzle rib, and through a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall. The internal nozzle rib extends across the nozzle opening.

[0017] According to yet another aspect, the present technology can include an adapter system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device. The system includes a piercing nozzle and a plunger. The piercing nozzle can be attachable to a dispensing end of the dispensing device and can include a nozzle sidewall, one or more recessed members, one or more piercing protrusions, and an internal nozzle rib. The nozzle sidewall and a nozzle end wall can define an internal nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the collapsible package. The recessed members can extend into the internal nozzle cavity. The piercing protrusions can partially extend from the one or more recessed members and can be configured to pierce the collapsible package and allow the material in the collapsible package to be dispensed when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device pushes the collapsible package toward the piercing nozzle. The internal nozzle rib can be connected between the one or more piercing protrusions, the internal nozzle rib including a central portion and a piercing protrusion. The central portion can extend across a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall. The piercing protrusion portions can extend at an angle from opposite ends of the central portion toward and connect to at least one of the one or more piercing protrusions. The plunger can be operably associated with a plunger rod of the dispensing device. The plunger can include a plunger sidewall having a middle portion having a width or diameter greater than a width or diameter of any other portion of the plunger sidewall such that the middle portion is in slidable contact with an inner surface of a package tube defining a hollow interior. The plunger can be configured to push the collapsible package in the package tube toward the one or more piercing protrusions.

[0018] In some or all embodiments, the piercing nozzle can include a nozzle sidewall, a nozzle end wall, one or more recessed members, and an internal rib. The nozzle sidewall and the nozzle end wall can define an internal nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the package. The recessed members can extend into the internal nozzle cavity with one or more piercing protrusions partially extending from the one or more recessed members. The internal nozzle rib can extend across a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle end wall.

[0019] In some or all embodiments, the piercing nozzle can further include a ledge defining a ledge aperture therethrough and in communication with the nozzle opening.

[0020] In some or all embodiments, the one or more piercing protrusions can include two or more piercing walls that are angularly oriented to one another to form a V-shape.

[0021] In some or all embodiments, the piercing walls can each include a sloped edge that converges to form a piercing tip.

[0022] In some or all embodiments, the one or more recessed members can each include a pair of opposing recessed member sidewalls, one or more recessed member end walls, and a recessed member bottom wall. The piercing walls can extend from any one or any combination of the recessed member sidewalls, the one or more recessed member end walls, and the recessed member bottom wall.

[0023] In some or all embodiments, the internal nozzle rib can be connected between the one or more piercing protrusions.

[0024] In some or all embodiments, the internal nozzle rib can include a central portion that is extendable across the nozzle opening, and a piercing protrusion portion that is extendable at an angle from opposite ends of the central portion and connected to at least one of the one or more piercing protrusions.

[0025] Some or all embodiments of the present technology can include a plunger that is attachable to a plunger rod of the dispensing device and configured to travel along a longitudinal axis of the dispensing device toward the piercing nozzle to compress the package against the one or more piercing protrusions.

[0026] In some or all embodiments, the plunger can include a plunger sidewall and a plunger bottom wall that define a plunger cavity. The plunger cavity can be configured to receive the second end of the package.

[0027] In some or all embodiments, the plunger can include a plurality of plunger protrusions, each plunger protrusion including a plunger protrusion wall extending from the plunger bottom wall into the plunger cavity. The plunger protrusion wall and the plunger bottom wall can define a plunger protrusion cavity in communication with the plunger cavity.

[0028] In some or all embodiments, a length of the plunger protrusion wall from the plunger bottom wall can be greater than a length of the nozzle sidewall from the plunger bottom wall.

[0029] In some or all embodiments, the plunger sidewall can include an inner side that partially defines the plunger cavity and a sloped outer side, such that a first thickness of a free end of the plunger sidewall is less than a second thickness of the plunger sidewall adjacent the plunger bottom wall.

[0030] In some or all embodiments, the plunger sidewall of the first plunger segment and the second plunger segment can respectively intersect at an outer midsection that is wider than the free end of the plunger sidewall. The midsection can slidably contact an inner surface of the packaging tube that defines the hollow interior of the packaging tube.

[0031] In some or all embodiments, the plunger can include a plunger sidewall having a midsection that is wider or has a larger diameter than any other portion of the plunger sidewall, such that the midsection slidably contacts an inner surface of the packaging tube that defines the hollow interior of the packaging tube.

[0032] In some or all embodiments, the plunger can include a second plunger sidewall that is inverted from and extends from the plunger sidewall. The plunger can also include a second plunger protrusion that is inverted from and extends from the plunger bottom wall.

[0033] In some or all embodiments, the plunger protrusion wall can be configured to form a geometric plunger protrusion.

[0034] In some or all embodiments, the plunger rod can include a plunger adapter that includes a protruding protrusion that can be configured to be received into an open space defined in the plunger protrusion of the plunger.

[0035] In some or all embodiments, the piercing nozzle and / or the plunger can be integrally formed with the dispensing device.

[0036] In some or all embodiments, the piercing nozzle and / or the plunger can be detachably attached to the dispensing device.

[0037] Accordingly, the features of the present technology have been quite broadly described in order to provide a concise general description of the disclosure to one skilled in the art and a more complete understanding can be obtained by reading the detailed description in conjunction with the drawings.

[0038] Numerous objectives, features, and advantages of the present technology will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the following detailed description of the technology taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate by way of exemplary embodiments the principles of the present technology.

[0039] The person of ordinary skill in the art will therefore appreciate that the concepts upon which the present disclosure is based can be readily used as a basis for the design of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present technology. Accordingly, the claims are to be considered to include such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present technology.

[0040] It is therefore an object of the present technology to provide a novel sausage-type packaging dispensing system that has all the advantages of the prior art sealant dispensing systems and none of the disadvantages.

[0041] Another object of the present technology is to provide a new and novel sausage-type packaging dispensing system that can be easily and efficiently manufactured and marketed.

[0042] Still another object of the present technology is to provide a new and novel sausage-type packaging dispensing system that is low in manufacturing cost in terms of materials and labor, and thus can be sold at a low price to the purchasing public, thereby enabling the purchasing public to economically purchase such a sausage-type packaging dispensing system.

[0043] Another object of the present technology is to provide a new and novel sausage-type packaging dispensing system that provides some of the advantages of prior art devices and methods, while overcoming some of the disadvantages commonly associated therewith.

[0044] These and other objects of the present technology, as well as various novel features of the present technology, are pointed out in the claims forming a part of the disclosure. For a better understanding of the present technology, its operating advantages, and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the technology. While multiple objects of the present technology have been identified herein, it should be understood that the claimed technology is not limited to fulfilling most or all of the identified objects, and some embodiments of the technology can fulfill only one such object or none at all. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0045] The present technology will be better understood when the following detailed description is considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 is an exploded right rear perspective view of an embodiment of a sausage-type packaging dispensing system constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and for use with a caulking gun, wherein the dashed lines represent environmental structure and do not form part of the claimed invention.

[0047] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a caulking gun utilizing the sausage-type packaging dispensing system of the present technology.

[0048] Figure 3 is a right upper perspective view of a piercing nozzle of the sausage-type packaging dispensing system of the present technology.

[0049] Figure 4 is a left lower perspective view of a piercing nozzle of the sausage-type packaging dispensing system of the present technology.

[0050] Figure 5 is a bottom plan view of a piercing nozzle of the sausage-type packaging dispensing system of the present technology.

[0051] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken alongFigure 5 The piercing nozzle is shown in a cross-sectional view taken from line 6-6, which shows the piercing component piercing a sausage-shaped package.

[0052] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The puncture nozzle is shown in a cross-sectional view taken by line 7-7, which shows the support structure and the nozzle opening.

[0053] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the upper right side of the puncture nozzle, which is an alternative implementation of the sausage-style packaging and dispensing system of this technology.

[0054] Figure 9 This is a lower left perspective view of the puncture nozzle, which is an alternative implementation of the sausage-style packaging and dispensing system of this technology.

[0055] Figure 10 This is a bottom-view elevation view of the puncture nozzle, which is an alternative implementation of the sausage-style packaging and dispensing system of this technology.

[0056] Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the alternative embodiment of the piercing nozzle, taken by line 11-11, which illustrates the piercing member piercing a sausage-shaped package.

[0057] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the alternative embodiment of the piercing nozzle, taken by line 12-12, which illustrates the support member, the nozzle opening, and the auxiliary piercing member for piercing sausage-shaped packaging.

[0058] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the plunger of the sausage-type packaging and dispensing system of this technology from the upper right side.

[0059] Figure 14 This is a top view of the plunger of the sausage-type packaging and dispensing system of this technology.

[0060] Figure 15 It is along Figure 14 The section view of the plunger and plunger rod adapter, taken from line 15-15, shows the inwardly sloping sidewalls in the magnified portion.

[0061] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the sausage-type packaging and dispensing system of this technology in use, including a piercing nozzle and a plunger traveling inside the tube.

[0062] Figure 17 This is an enlarged view of the sliding connection between the middle part of the plunger and the inner surface of the tube.

[0063] In each figure, the same reference numerals denote the same parts. Detailed Implementation

[0064] In the following description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth such as particular embodiments, procedures, techniques, etc. in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present technology. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present technology can be practiced in other embodiments that depart from these specific details.

[0065] Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to Figures 1 to 17 embodiments of sausage-type packaging dispensing systems, devices, and methods of the present technology, generally indicated by the reference numeral 10, are shown.

[0066] In Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a novel sausage-type packaging dispensing system or device 10 of the present technology for controllably dispensing material from a collapsible or sausage-type packaging 2 is shown and will be described. More particularly, the sausage-type packaging dispensing system 10 can be associated with a sausage-type dispensing device 12 configured to receive the collapsible or sausage-type packaging 2, a packaging tube 28, a piercing nozzle 30, 80, and a plunger 140. The packaging tube 28, piercing nozzle 30, 80, and plunger 140 can be provided together as an adapter system to the dispensing device 12, or can be provided separately, or can be provided together as one unit with the dispensing device 12.

[0067] It can be appreciated that the sausage-type packaging 2 can include any collapsible and sausage-shaped casing packaging containing an extrudable material therein. In examples, the extrudable material can be, but is not limited to, sealant, grease, lubricant, food material, caulk, paste, mixable compound, filler, etc.

[0068] There are several advantages to packaging adhesive and sealant products in a sausage-type packaging 2. The first advantage is that the sausage-type packaging 2 itself represents a savings in initial costs in manufacturing as compared to traditional cartridges or tubes. Because the cost of manufacturing a sausage-type packaging is significantly lower than the cost of manufacturing a traditional cartridge or tube.

[0069] Another advantage is the extended shelf life of the material in the sausage-type packaging 2. The sausage-type packaging uses a flat film, and thus the flat film is pinched or sealed with the product material stored therein to form a sausage. Thus, no air is introduced during the filling process. The film used to form the sausage-type packaging 2 also provides an excellent moisture barrier, such as a multi-layer film with trapped aluminum.

[0070] Still another advantage is the increased space savings in storage on warehouse, store shelves, during shipping or being carried by the user to the work site or location.

[0071] Another important benefit of the sausage casing package 2 is lower disposal costs. Since the empty sausage casing package is essentially a small compressed sheet of disc that is 10% of the size of a typical empty cartridge or tube, disposal costs can be highly saved. In addition, the sausage casing package 2 can reduce waste going to landfills, which is a key component of environmental sustainability.

[0072] The present technology provides efficient dispensing of the material in the sausage casing package 2 by utilizing an aftermarket part that can be used easily with existing caulking guns, or can be an integral caulking gun or dispensing device that includes the part of the present technology.

[0073] For purposes of example, the sausage casing dispensing device 12 can have a configuration similar to a gun having a main housing 14, a plunger rod 16, an internal cavity having reinforcing ribs 18, and a dispensing end section 20. A handle, trigger, and piston handle can be used with the dispensing device 12. It can be appreciated that the plunger rod 16 of the dispensing device 12 can be manually driven by a rack and pinion or ratchet system or by a motor and gear system. The main housing 14 can be made of plastic, metal, composite, alloy, or any combination thereof, but is not limited thereto. The dispensing device 12 can be a single molded unit or can be made of separable and attachable parts that are secured together by, but not limited to, adhesives, welding, fasteners, tabs, locks, clips, or other securing means.

[0074] The internal cavity of the main housing 14 can be configured to directly receive the sausage casing package 2 or to receive a package tube 28 in which the sausage casing package 2 is located. The reinforcing ribs 18 can be configured to provide rigidity to the dispensing device 12 to support the package tube 28 received in the main housing 14 and / or to assist in containing or guiding the sausage casing package 2 when the sausage casing package 2 is contained into the internal cavity.

[0075] The package tube 28 can be a hollow tube having two opposite open ends, allowing the sausage casing package 2 to be received inside the package tube 28 from either end. The width or diameter of the package tube 28 can be sized to be able to be received in a caulking gun or in the internal cavity of the main housing 14 of the dispensing device 12. The package tube 28 can be made of any suitable material such as, but not limited to, plastic, metal, alloy, paperboard, etc. In addition, the package tube 28 can be transparent or include a window or opening to easily view the sausage casing package 2 inside the package tube 28. It can be appreciated that the package tube 28 can include ribs or grooves to increase the rigidity of the package tube 28 and / or to prevent the package tube 28 from bending or expanding during use.

[0076] The plunger 140 can be configured as a portion that can be attached to or associated with the plunger rod 16 and can also be configured as being slidably received within the packaging tube 28. Alternatively, the plunger 140 can be configured as being slidably received along the longitudinal axis of the inner cavity of the main housing 14 such that it can be used without the packaging tube 28.

[0077] The dispensing end section 20 can be configured to receive the piercing nozzle 30, 80 therein such that the protrusion 70, 130 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80 can be inserted through the dispensing end opening 22 defined by the dispensing end section 20 of the dispensing device 12.

[0078] The nozzle tip 160 can be attached to the protrusion 70, 130 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80, thereby securing the piercing nozzle 30, 80 to the dispensing end section 20, as Figure 2 best shown. The nozzle tip 160 can be configured to assist in dispensing and / or spreading the material being dispensed from the sausage casing 2 onto a surface or into a gap. The nozzle tip 160 can be made of plastic, metal, composite, alloy, or any combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0079] Referring to Figures 3 to 7 , an embodiment of the piercing nozzle 30 is shown and will be described. The piercing nozzle 30 can be removably attached to the dispensing end section 20 or can be integrally formed with the dispensing end section 20. The piercing nozzle 30 can include a housing having a nozzle sidewall 32 that defines a nozzle cavity 34 therein that is configured to receive an end of the sausage casing 2. The piercing nozzle 30 can be made of plastic, metal, composite, alloy, or any combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0080] The width or diameter of the sidewall 32 can be substantially the same as the width or diameter of the packaging tube 28 such that they are in contact with each other during use and allow the aforementioned end of the sausage casing 2 to easily pass through the open end of the packaging tube 28 and into the nozzle cavity 34. Alternatively, the width or diameter of the sidewall 32 can be greater than the width or diameter of the packaging tube 28, thereby allowing either end of the packaging tube 28 to be received in the nozzle cavity 34. In another alternative, the width or diameter of the sidewall 32 can be less than the width or diameter of the packaging tube 28, thereby allowing the sidewall 32 of the piercing nozzle 30 to be received in at least a portion of the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28.

[0081] The flange 36 can extend from the perimeter of the nozzle sidewall 32 at the location where the nozzle sidewall 32 transitions to the nozzle end wall 38. The width or diameter of the flange 36 can be greater than the width or diameter of the nozzle sidewall 32. The flange 36 can be configured to prevent the piercing nozzle 30 from being fully inserted into the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28.

[0082] A sloped or curved section 40 can transition from the flange 36 to the nozzle end wall 38. The section 40 can be recessed toward the nozzle cavity 34, thereby forming a recessed spacing relative to the flange 36 and the nozzle end wall 38. A nozzle opening 41 can be centrally defined through the nozzle end wall 38 and configured to allow material from the sausage casing 2 to pass therethrough.

[0083] A tab 70 can extend from the nozzle end wall 38 in a direction away from the nozzle sidewall 32. The tab 70 can define a longitudinal tab aperture 72 therethrough and can include external threading 74. The tab aperture 72 is in direct fluid communication with the nozzle opening 41, thereby allowing material from the sausage casing 2 to be received from the nozzle opening 41 and exit the tab 70. Further, the tab aperture 72 can taper conically in a direction toward the nozzle end wall 38, such that a first width or diameter of the tab aperture 72 proximate the nozzle opening 41 is less than a second width or diameter of an exit end of the tab aperture 72 opposite the nozzle opening 41.

[0084] It can be appreciated that the tab 70 can be integrally formed with and extend from the dispensing end section 20.

[0085] The width or diameter of the tab 70, including the external threading 74, can be configured to be inserted through the dispensing end opening 22, as Figure 7 best shown. It can be appreciated that the dispensing end opening 22 is configured to prevent passage of the housing of the piercing nozzle 30 therethrough. When the piercing nozzle 30 is assembled in the dispensing end section 20, the flange 36 and / or the nozzle end wall 38 can abut or contact an end wall of the dispensing end section 20 that includes the dispensing end opening 22.

[0086] The nozzle tip 160 can include an attachment end configured to secure the nozzle tip 160 to the tab 70. This can be accomplished by utilizing internal threading of the nozzle tip 160 that can engage the external threading 74 of the tab 70, but is not limited thereto. It can be appreciated that other securing mechanisms can be utilized in place of threading, such as, but not limited to, a ratchet, a clip, a latch, a lock, or a magnet. The width or diameter of the attachment end of the nozzle tip 160 can be greater than the width or diameter of the dispensing end opening 22, thereby clamping the piercing nozzle 30 to the end wall of the dispensing end section 20 when the nozzle tip 160 is secured to the tab 70.

[0087] One or more recessed members 42 can extend from the nozzle end wall 38 and / or the curved section 40 into the nozzle cavity 34. The recessed members 42 can include a recessed member end wall 44, a recessed member sidewall 46, and a recessed member bottom wall 48, thereby defining a recessed cavity. The recessed cavity can be further defined in part by the nozzle sidewall 32 of the housing, as Figure 3 and Figure 6As best shown, the piercing nozzle 30 can include two recessed members 42 positioned opposite one another, and the protrusion 70 is positioned therebetween. It can be appreciated that the present technology can utilize any number of recessed members 42.

[0088] As best shown, the piercing protrusion 50 can extend from the recessed member side wall 46 and / or the recessed member bottom wall 48 of each recessed member 42 into the nozzle cavity 34. In examples, the piercing protrusion 50 can include two or more piercing walls 52 extending from the recessed member side wall 46 and / or the recessed member bottom wall 48. When viewing the nozzle cavity 34, the piercing walls 52 can be oriented at an angle to one another, forming a generally V-shape. The interior angle between the piercing walls 52 can be less than 180°. Further, the convergence angle of each piercing protrusion 50 can face one another, such that the open portion of the V-shape faces the nozzle side wall 32. Figures 4 to 7

[0089] Each piercing wall 52 can include a beveled edge 54 that converges toward one another to form a piercing tip 56 of the piercing protrusion 50. The piercing tip 56 can be configured to easily puncture or penetrate the casing of the sausage package 2 when pressed against the casing of the sausage package 2.

[0090] In examples, the recessed members 42 and / or the piercing protrusion 50 can be configured to not extend into or obstruct the longitudinal protrusion aperture 72 of the protrusion 70, thereby creating an unobstructed path for material to pass or travel through.

[0091] The interior rib 60 can extend between the piercing protrusions 50, across the nozzle opening 41. The interior rib 60 can include a middle portion 62 that extends across the nozzle opening 41, thereby dividing the nozzle opening 41 into two opposing regions. The interior rib 60 can further include piercing protrusion portions 64 that extend at an angle from opposite ends of the middle portion 62 toward the piercing tip 56 of each piercing protrusion 50. The piercing protrusion portions 64 can intersect the piercing protrusion 50 directly at the piercing tip 56, or at a location adjacent to or offset from the piercing tip 56 to be separate from the piercing tip 56, as best shown. Figure 6 Such separation can be configured to help separate the punctured portion of the casing of the sausage package 2 from the remaining portion of the sausage package 2. Such separation can allow for a larger punctured opening to be formed in the sausage package 2, thereby making it easier for material to flow out of the sausage package 2 when operating the dispensing device 12.

[0092] ​At least one passageway can be defined along the piercing protrusion portion 64 of the internal rib 60 and / or the longitudinal axis of each piercing protrusion 50. Further, the passageway can be defined as the open area between each piercing wall 52 and the piercing protrusion portion 64. The passageway can be in communication with the nozzle opening 41. Once the sausage casing 2 is pierced by the piercing protrusions 50, the piercing protrusions 50 are inserted / received into the interior of the sausage casing 2 such that any material within the sausage casing 2 is allowed to flow through the passageway and into the nozzle opening 41 and then into the ledge aperture 72.

[0093] The internal rib 60 can further provide structural support to the piercing nozzle 30 and / or resist collapse of the nozzle sidewall 32. Still further, the internal rib 60 can help direct the aforementioned end of the sausage casing 2 towards the piercing protrusions 50 and / or prevent the pierced portion of the casing of the sausage casing 2 from entering or obstructing the nozzle opening 41 and / or the ledge aperture 72, as Figure 7 Best shown, where material flow is indicated by arrows.

[0094] It can be appreciated that the nozzle sidewall 32, the piercing protrusions 50, the internal rib 60, and the ledge 70 can be integrally formed to form the piercing nozzle 30.

[0095] Referring to Figures 8 to 12 , an embodiment of a piercing nozzle 80 is shown and will be described, which is similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 7 and described above. The piercing nozzle 80 can be removably attached to the dispensing end section 20 or can be integrally formed with the dispensing end section 20. The piercing nozzle 80 can include a housing having a nozzle sidewall 82 defining a nozzle cavity 84 therein configured to receive an end of a sausage casing 2. The piercing nozzle 80 can be made of plastic, metal, composite material, alloy, or any combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0096] The width or diameter of the sidewall 82 can be substantially the same as the width or diameter of the packaging tube 28 such that they are in contact with each other during use and allow the aforementioned end of the sausage casing 2 to easily pass through the open end of the packaging tube 28 and into the nozzle cavity 84. Alternatively, the width or diameter of the sidewall 82 can be greater than the width or diameter of the packaging tube 28, thereby allowing either end of the packaging tube 28 to be received in the nozzle cavity 84. In another alternative, the width or diameter of the sidewall 82 can be less than the width or diameter of the packaging tube 28, thereby allowing the sidewall 82 portion of the piercing nozzle 80 to be received in at least a portion of the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28.

[0097] The flange 86 can extend from the perimeter of the nozzle sidewall 82 at the location where the nozzle sidewall 82 transitions to the nozzle end wall 88. The width or diameter of the flange 86 can be greater than the width or diameter of the nozzle sidewall 82. The flange 86 can be configured to prevent the puncturing nozzle 80 from being fully inserted into the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28.

[0098] The nozzle end wall 88 can be planar, extending to the flange 86. A nozzle opening 89 can be centrally defined through the nozzle end wall 88 and configured to allow material from the sausage packaging 2 to pass therethrough.

[0099] The nose 130 can extend from the nozzle end wall 88 in a direction away from the nozzle sidewall 82. The nose 130 can define a longitudinal nose bore 132 therethrough and can include external threading 134. The nose bore 132 is in direct fluid communication with the nozzle opening 89, allowing material from the sausage packaging 2 to be received from the nozzle opening 89 and exit the nose 130. Further, the nose bore 132 can taper conically in a direction toward the nozzle end wall 88, such that a first width or diameter of the nose bore 132 adjacent the nozzle opening 89 is less than a second width or diameter of an exit end of the nose bore 132 opposite the nozzle opening 89.

[0100] The width or diameter of the nose 130 including the external threading 134 can be configured to be inserted through the dispensing end opening 22, as Figure 12 best shown. It can be appreciated that the dispensing end opening 22 is configured to prevent the housing of the puncturing nozzle 80 from passing therethrough. The flange 86 and / or the nozzle end wall 88 can abut or contact an end wall of the dispensing end section 20 including the dispensing end opening 22 when the puncturing nozzle 80 is assembled in the dispensing end section 20.

[0101] The nozzle tip 160 can include an attachment end configured to secure the nozzle tip 160 to the nose 130. This can be accomplished by utilizing internal threading of the nozzle tip 160 that can engage with the external threading 134 of the nose 130, but is not limited thereto. It can be appreciated that other securing mechanisms can be utilized in place of threading, such as but not limited to a ratchet, a clip, a latch, a lock, or a magnet. The width or diameter of the attachment end of the nozzle tip 160 can be greater than the width or diameter of the dispensing end opening 22, thereby clamping the puncturing nozzle 80 to the end wall of the dispensing end section 20 when the nozzle tip 160 is secured to the nose 130.

[0102] One or more recessed members 90 can extend from the nozzle end wall 88 into the nozzle cavity 84. The recessed member 90 can include opposing recessed member sidewalls 92, opposing recessed member end walls 94, and a recessed member bottom wall 96, thereby defining a recessed cavity. The recessed member 90 can be offset from the nozzle sidewall 82 to provide a portion of the nozzle end wall 88 between the recessed member 90 and the flange 86, as Figure 8As best shown, the piercing nozzle 80 can include two recessed members 90 positioned opposite one another, and the protrusion 130 is positioned therebetween. It can be appreciated that the present technology can utilize any number of recessed members 90.

[0103] As Figures 9 to 12 As best shown, one or more piercing protrusions 100 can extend from one recessed member side wall 92, one or more recessed member end wall 94, and / or recessed member bottom wall 96 of each recessed member 90 into the nozzle cavity 84. In an example, the piercing protrusion 100 can include two or more piercing walls 102 extending from the one recessed member side wall 92, one or more recessed member end wall 94, and / or recessed member bottom wall 96. The piercing walls 102 can be oriented at an angle to one another when viewing the nozzle cavity 84, thereby forming a generally V-shape. The interior angle between the piercing walls 52 can be less than 180°. Further, the convergence angle of each piercing protrusion 100 can face one another such that the open portion of the V-shape faces the nozzle side wall 82.

[0104] Each piercing wall 102 can include a beveled edge 104 that converges toward one another to form a piercing tip 106 of the piercing protrusion 100. The piercing tip 106 can be configured to easily puncture or penetrate the casing of the sausage-style package 2 when pressed against the casing of the sausage-style package 2.

[0105] In an example, the recessed members 90 and / or piercing protrusions 100 can be configured to not extend into or obstruct the longitudinal protrusion aperture 132 of the protrusion 130, thereby creating an unobstructed path for material to pass or travel through.

[0106] The interior rib 110 can extend between the piercing protrusions 100, across the nozzle opening 89. The interior rib 110 can include a central portion 112 that extends across the nozzle opening 89, thereby dividing the nozzle opening 89 into two opposing regions. The interior rib 110 can also include piercing protrusion portions 114 that extend at an angle from opposite ends of the central portion 112 toward the piercing tip 106 of each piercing protrusion 100. The piercing protrusion portions 114 can intersect the piercing protrusion 100 directly at the piercing tip 106, or at a location adjacent to or offset from the piercing tip 106 that is separate from the piercing tip 106, as best shown. Figure 11 Such separation can be configured to help separate the punctured portion of the casing of the sausage-style package 2 from the remaining portion of the sausage-style package 2. Such separation can allow for a larger punctured opening to be formed in the sausage-style package 2, thereby making it easier for material to flow out of the sausage-style package 2 when operating the dispensing device 12.

[0107] At least one channel can be defined along the piercing protrusion portion 114 of the interior rib 110 and / or the longitudinal axis of each piercing protrusion 100. Further, the channel can be defined as the open area between each piercing wall 102 and the piercing protrusion portion 114. The channel can be in communication with the nozzle opening 89. Once the sausage casing 2 is punctured by the piercing protrusions 100, the piercing protrusions 100 are inserted / received into the interior of the sausage casing 2 such that any material in the sausage casing 2 is allowed to flow through the channel and into the nozzle opening 89 and then into the tab aperture 132.

[0108] The interior rib 110 can further provide structural support to the piercing nozzle 80 and / or resist collapse of the nozzle sidewall 82. Still further, the interior rib 110 can help direct the aforementioned end of the sausage casing 2 toward the piercing protrusions 100 and / or prevent the punctured portion of the casing of the sausage casing 2 from entering or obstructing the nozzle opening 89 and / or the tab aperture 132, as best shown in Figure 7 wherein material flow is indicated by arrows.

[0109] One or more auxiliary piercing members 120 can extend from the nozzle end wall 88 and / or the nozzle sidewall 82 into the nozzle cavity 84. The auxiliary piercing members 120 can be positioned in a spaced apart relationship between the recessed members 90 and / or between the piercing protrusions 100. Each auxiliary piercing member 120 can include an interior rib section 122 and a puncturing tooth 124 directed away from the nozzle end wall 88 and into the nozzle cavity 84. The auxiliary piercing members 120 can be configured to not impede the flow of material into the tab aperture 132.

[0110] The auxiliary piercing members 120 or any portion thereof can be configured to provide additional strength and / or rigidity to the piercing nozzle 80 during use. Collapse of the nozzle sidewall 82 and / or the nozzle end wall 88 can be reduced by configuring the width, height, and / or position of the interior rib 122 or any portion of the auxiliary piercing members 120.

[0111] The puncturing tooth 124 can have a first wall or edge extending at an angle from the interior rib 122 and a second wall or edge 126 extending at an angle from the nozzle end wall 88, the area of which partially defines the nozzle opening 89 or the end of the tab 130 adjacent to the nozzle opening 89. The angle of the first edge converges with the second edge 126 to form the puncturing tooth 124.

[0112] The puncturing tooth 124 can be configured to further puncture the sausage casing 2 in conjunction with the piercing tip 106 to create a larger opening in the sausage casing 2 to allow material to more easily flow out of the sausage casing 2, as best shown in Figure 12

[0113] ​The piercing nozzle 80 can include any number of secondary piercing members 120 radially arranged about the longitudinal axis of the piercing nozzle 80 or the ledge aperture 132.

[0114] It can be appreciated that the nozzle sidewall 82, the piercing protrusion 100, the internal rib 110, the secondary piercing members 120, and the ledge 130 can be integrally formed to form the piercing nozzle 80.

[0115] Referring to Figures 13 to 15 , the plunger 140 of the sausage casing dispensing system is shown and will be described. The plunger 140 can be attached to the plunger rod 16 of the dispensing device 12. This can be accomplished with the adapter 24, which is part of or attached to the plunger rod 16, and thus the adapter 24 is configured to mate with or be attached to the plunger 140. Movement of the plunger rod 16 is translated into longitudinal movement of the plunger 140 within the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28 or the internal cavity of the dispensing device 12. The plunger 140 can be made of plastic, metal, composite, alloy, or any combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0116] The plunger 140 can include a pair of identical or similarly configured halves, where each half includes a plunger sidewall 142 intersecting at a radially arranged midsection 150, and each half further includes a plunger bottom wall 152 extending through the midsection 150 and between them, thereby dividing the plunger 140 into two mirror halves.

[0117] Each plunger sidewall 142 can include an outer side 144 and an inner side 146, as best shown in the enlarged portion of Figure 15 . Each half of the plunger 140 includes a plunger cavity 148 defined within the inner side 146 of the plunger sidewall 142 and the plunger bottom wall 152. The plunger cavity 148 can be configured to receive one end of the sausage casing 2 therein.

[0118] A plurality of plunger protrusions 154 can extend from the plunger bottom wall 152 into the plunger cavity 148. The plunger protrusions 154 can be formed from a plurality of plunger protrusion walls 156 extending away from the plunger bottom wall 152 in a generally geometric shape. Each plunger protrusion 154 can define its own internal cavity defined by the plunger protrusion walls 156 and the plunger bottom wall 152 or one or more of the plunger protrusion walls 156, the plunger bottom wall 152, and the plunger sidewall 142. It can be appreciated that the geometric shape of some plunger protrusions 154 defined in part by the plunger sidewall 142 can be different than the geometric shape of plunger protrusions 154 defined only by the plunger protrusion walls 156 and the plunger bottom wall 152.

[0119] The geometric shape of the plunger protrusions 154 can be, but is not limited to, square, triangular, circular, oval, polygonal, etc.

[0120] For a particular half of the plunger 140, the height or length that the plunger protrusion wall 156 extends from the plunger bottom wall 152 can be less than the height or length of the plunger side wall 142. This difference in height or length can further partially define the plunger cavity 148. Further, it is understood that one or more of the plunger protrusion walls 156 can have a different height or length than the other plunger protrusion walls 156.

[0121] Referring to Figure 15 , the outer side 144 of the plunger side wall 142 can be angled at an angle Θ relative to the longitudinal axis or mid-point 150 of the plunger 140. This angle Θ can result in a thickness of the free end or edge of the plunger side wall 142 being less than a thickness near or at the mid-point 150. The angle Θ can assist in the insertion and withdrawal of the plunger 140 at the open end of the packaging tube 28 and / or in the nozzle cavity 34, 84 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80. Further, the angle Θ can assist in the longitudinal travel of the plunger 140 through the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28 and / or over the reinforcing rib 18 of the dispensing device 12 if the packaging tube 28 is not used. During the travel of the plunger 140 through the packaging tube 28, the mid-point 150 can contact the interior surface of the packaging tube 28, thereby acting as a sliding seal against it to prevent material from seeping out of the plunger 140.

[0122] The inner side of the nozzle side wall 32, 82 that defines the nozzle cavity 34, 84 can be angled to complement the angle Θ of the outer side 144 of the plunger side wall 142. This complementary angle allows either side or either half of the plunger 140 to be fully received in the nozzle cavity 34, 84.

[0123] The inner side 146 of the plunger side wall 142 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plunger 140 or can be angled such that the width or diameter of the plunger cavity 148 at the free end of the plunger 140 is less than the width or diameter of the plunger cavity 148 adjacent the plunger protrusion 154. The angle of the inner side 146 can be configured to assist in the insertion of the end of the sausage packaging 2 into the plunger cavity 148 when the plunger 140 is pressed against the end of the sausage packaging 2.

[0124] The plunger protrusion 154 can be configured to provide rigidity to the plunger 140 and / or air pocket to prevent vacuum locking of the aforementioned end of the sausage packaging 2. The air pocket can be utilized to easily remove the sausage packaging 2 from the plunger cavity 148 or to withdraw the plunger 140 from the sausage packaging 2.

[0125] Further, the adapter 24 attached to the end of the plunger rod 16 can include an outer side having a protruding protrusion 26 configured to be received into the open space defined by the plunger protrusion 154 of the plunger 140, as Figure 15The arrangement can be configured to provide a pressure fit or friction fit of the plunger 140 with the adapter 24, allowing for removal and / or replacement of the plunger 140. Alternatively, the protrusion 26 can be omitted from the adapter 24, such that a planar or flat exterior side of the adapter 24 contacts the plunger protrusion 154, as Figure 16 The arrangement is best shown.

[0126] It can be appreciated that the dispensing device 12 of the present application can include a retraction system (not shown) to ensure that the bead flow or flow of material from the sausage casing package 2 stops when activation of the plunger rod 16 is stopped. The retraction system can have a configuration capable of retracting pressure to avoid material from unnecessarily flowing out of the piercing nozzle 30, 80 or nozzle tip 160. The retraction system can include, but is not limited to, a biasing assembly capable of pushing back against a portion of the package compression assembly or the sausage casing package 2, a retraction assembly capable of retracting at least a portion of the package compression assembly or the sausage casing package 2, or a nozzle tip moving assembly capable of moving the piercing nozzle 30, 80 away from the sausage casing package 2.

[0127] Referring to Figure 16 and Figure 17 It can now be appreciated that the sausage casing dispensing system 10 of the present application can be used to dispense material from the sausage casing package 2, such as, but not limited to, caulk, adhesive, sealant, paste, cement, etc. In an exemplary use, a user can insert the sausage casing package 2 into the package tube 28. If the plunger 140 is not already part of the plunger rod 16 or the adapter 24, it can be attached to the plunger rod 16 or the adapter 24. When the plunger rod 16 is retracted, access to the interior cavity of the dispensing device 12 is allowed, and the piercing nozzle 30, 80 can be inserted into the dispensing end section 20 such that the tabs 70, 130 are received through the dispensing end opening 22 of the dispensing end section 20.

[0128] The nozzle tip 160 can then be mated with the tabs 70, 130 such that the piercing nozzle 30, 80 is clamped or secured to the dispensing end section 20.

[0129] When the plunger rod 16 is retracted, the sausage casing package 2 or the package tube 28 with the sausage casing package 2 therein can be inserted into the interior cavity of the dispensing device 12 such that the first end of the sausage casing package 2 is received in the nozzle cavity 34, 84 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80 or one open end of the package tube 28 is adjacent to the nozzle cavity 34, 84.

[0130] It can be appreciated that the piercing nozzle 30, 80 can be first inserted into the interior space of the main housing 14, and then the sausage casing 2 or the packaging tube 28 with the sausage casing 2 therein can be inserted into the interior space of the main housing 14, such that the first end of the sausage casing 2 can be received in the nozzle cavity 34, 84 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80.

[0131] With the piercing nozzle 30, 80 and the sausage casing 2 or the packaging tube 28 with the sausage casing 2 therein installed in the interior space of the main housing 14, the user can then operate the dispensing device 12 to advance the plunger rod 16, which advances the plunger 140 toward the second end of the sausage casing 2.

[0132] Operation of the dispensing device 12 advances the plunger 140 into the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28 such that the free end of the plunger 140 contacts the second end of the sausage casing 2, whereby the second end of the sausage casing 2 is received in the plunger cavity 148 of the plunger 140. The second end of the sausage casing 2 can be in contact with the plunger protrusion 154 that extends into the plunger cavity 148. It can be appreciated that the angle Θ associated with the two halves of the plunger 140 allows for easy insertion of the plunger through the open end into the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28. It can also be appreciated that the angle Θ can act as an insertion guide for the plunger 140 into the packaging tube 28.

[0133] Continued operation of the dispensing device 12 further advances the plunger 140 and pushes the sausage casing 2 through the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28 such that the first end of the sausage casing 2 is received in the nozzle cavity 34, 84 and is pressed against the piercing protrusion 50, 100. This advancement of the plunger 140 against the sausage casing 2 allows the piercing tip 56, 106 to pierce the first end of the sausage casing 2, thereby opening a passageway between the interior of the sausage casing 2 and the nozzle cavity 34, 84 and nozzle opening 41, 89 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80.

[0134] Further continued advancement of the plunger 140 by the plunger rod 16 through the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28 and against the second end of the sausage casing 2 can cause the sidewall of the sausage casing 2 to expand. However, the packaging tube 28 is configured to inhibit any radial or outward expansion of the sausage casing 2. Moreover, expansion of the packaging tube 28 can be inhibited by the reinforcing ribs 18 of the main housing 14.

[0135] During advancement of the plunger 140 through the hollow interior of the packaging tube 28, it can be appreciated that the middle portion 150 of the plunger 140 can act as a radial or circumferential seal against the interior side of the packaging tube 28 that defines the hollow interior therein. This contact provided by the middle portion 150 can prevent material in the sausage casing 2 from seeping through the plunger 140, such as Figure 17The best shown. Thus, waste of material is reduced and an effective push force to extrude the material from the sausage casing 2 is provided. It will be appreciated that the plunger 140 can be used in either direction due to its mirror image configuration.

[0136] This continued advancement of the plunger 140 can force the material out of the sausage casing 2, over the piercing protrusions 50, 100 and over the internal ribs 60, 110, and then through the nozzle opening 41, 89 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80. The material can then be forced through the hollow interior of the nozzle tip 160 and dispensed out of the opening defined or cut in the dispensing end of the nozzle tip 160.

[0137] In an example, the user can visually determine the amount of material remaining within the sausage casing 2 through the transparent casing tube 28.

[0138] The sausage casing 2 can be removed or replaced by operating the dispensing device 12 or the plunger rod 16 to withdraw the plunger 140 from the piercing nozzle 30, 80. The user can then remove the sausage casing 2 or the casing tube 28 with the sausage casing 2 therein from the interior cavity of the main housing 14. The empty or used sausage casing 2 can then be easily removed from the casing tube 28 and discarded.

[0139] Thereafter, the nozzle tip 160 can be removed from the ledge 70, 130 so that the piercing nozzle 30, 80 can be removed from the dispensing end section 20 for cleaning or replacement. Further, the plunger 140 can be removed from the plunger rod 16 or the adapter 24 for cleaning or replacement.

[0140] According to an aspect, the technology can include an adapter system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible casing 2 from a dispensing device 12. The adapter system can include a piercing nozzle 30, 80 and a plunger 140. The piercing nozzle 30, 80 can be attachable to a dispensing end 20 of the dispensing device 12. The piercing nozzle 30, 80 can include one or more piercing protrusions 50, 100 configured to pierce the collapsible casing 2 and allow the dispensing of material in the collapsible casing 2 when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device 12 pushes the casing 2 toward the piercing protrusions 50, 100. The plunger 140 can be operably associated with a plunger rod 16 of the dispensing device 12. The plunger 140 can be configured to be slidably received in a hollow interior of a casing tube 28 and to push the collapsible casing 2 toward the piercing protrusions 50, 100.

[0141] According to another aspect, the present technology can include a system or device for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package 2 from a dispensing device 12. The system or device can include a piercing nozzle 30, 80 attachable to a dispensing end section 20 of the dispensing device 12. The piercing nozzle 30, 80 can include a nozzle sidewall 32, 82 and a nozzle end wall 38, 88 defining an interior nozzle cavity 34, 84 configured to receive a first end of a package. One or more recessed members 42, 90 can extend into the interior nozzle cavity 34, 84. One or more piercing protrusions 50, 100 can extend partially from the one or more recessed members 42, 90. The one or more piercing protrusions 50, 100 can be configured to pierce a sausage package 2 when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device 12 pushes the sausage package 2 toward the piercing nozzle 30, 80, thereby allowing the material in the sausage package 2 to be dispensed. Interior nozzle ribs 60, 110 can extend across a nozzle opening 41, 89 defined through the nozzle end wall 38, 88.

[0142] According to yet another aspect, the present technology can include a system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package 2 from a dispensing device 12 and a plunger 140 attachable to a plunger rod 16 of the dispensing device 12. The system can include a piercing nozzle 30, 80 attachable to a dispensing end of the dispensing device 12. The piercing nozzle 30, 80 can include a nozzle sidewall 32, 82 and a nozzle end wall 38, 88 defining an interior nozzle cavity 34, 84 configured to receive a first end of a package. One or more recessed members 42, 90 can extend into the interior nozzle cavity 34, 84. One or more piercing protrusions 50, 100 can extend partially from the one or more recessed members 42, 90. The one or more piercing protrusions can be configured to pierce a package when a compression assembly associated with the dispensing device 12 pushes the package toward the piercing nozzle 30, 80, thereby allowing the material in the package to be dispensed. Interior nozzle ribs 60, 110 can extend across a nozzle opening 41, 89 defined through the nozzle end wall 38, 88. The plunger 140 can be configured to be slidably received in a hollow interior of a package tube 28 and to push the collapsible package 2 toward the piercing protrusions 50, 100.

[0143] According to yet another aspect, the present technology can include a method of using a system for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package 2 from a dispensing device 12. The method can include the step of placing the collapsible package 2 between a piercing nozzle 30, 80 and a plunger 140 in the dispensing device 12. Moving the plunger 140 to compress a first end of the collapsible package 2 into a nozzle cavity 34, 84 defined in the piercing nozzle 30, 80 and against one or more piercing protrusions 50, 100 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80. The nozzle cavity 34, 84 can be defined by nozzle sidewalls 32, 82 and a nozzle end wall 38, 88 of the piercing nozzle 30, 80. Piercing the first end of the collapsible package 2 by the one or more piercing protrusions 50, 100. Compressing the collapsible package 2 to cause material to flow out of the first end of the collapsible package 2, over an internal nozzle rib 60, 110 and through a nozzle opening 41, 89 defined through the nozzle end wall 38, 88. The nozzle internal rib 60, 110 extends across the nozzle opening 41, 89.

[0144] Some or all embodiments of the present technology can include a package tube 28 that can define a hollow interior therethrough that is configured to receive a sausage-style package 2 therein.

[0145] In some or all embodiments, the plunger 140 can be operatively associated with the plunger rod 16 of the dispensing device 12. The plunger 140 can include a plunger sidewall 142 having a midsection 150 that is greater in width or diameter than any other portion of the plunger sidewall 142 such that the midsection 150 is in slidable contact with an inner surface of the package tube 28 that defines the hollow interior of the package tube. The plunger 140 can be configured to urge the collapsible package 2 toward the piercing protrusions 50, 100.

[0146] In some or all embodiments, the piercing nozzle 30, 80 can further include a boss 70, 130 that defines a boss aperture 72, 132 therethrough and in communication with the nozzle opening 41, 89.

[0147] In some or all embodiments, the one or more piercing protrusions 50, 100 can include two or more piercing walls 52, 102 that are angularly oriented to one another to form a V-shape.

[0148] In some or all embodiments, the piercing walls 52, 102 can each include a beveled edge 54, 104 that converges to form a piercing tip 56, 106.

[0149] In some or all embodiments, the one or more recessed members 42, 90 can each include a pair of opposing recessed member sidewalls 46, 92, one or more recessed member end walls 44, 94, and a recessed member bottom wall 48, 96. The piercing wall 52, 102 can extend from any one or any combination of the recessed member sidewalls 46, 92, the one or more recessed member end walls 44, 94, and the recessed member bottom wall 48, 96.

[0150] In some or all embodiments, the internal nozzle rib 60, 110 can be connected between the one or more piercing protrusions 50, 100.

[0151] In some or all embodiments, the internal nozzle rib 60, 110 can include a middle portion 62, 112 that can extend across the nozzle opening 41, 89, and a piercing protrusion portion 64, 114 that can extend at an angle from opposite ends of the middle portion 62, 112 toward and connect to at least one of the one or more piercing protrusions 50, 100.

[0152] Some or all embodiments of the present technology can include a plunger 140 that can be attached to the plunger rod 16 of the dispensing device 12 and configured to travel along the longitudinal axis of the dispensing device 12 toward the piercing nozzle 30, 80 to compress the sausage casing 2 against the one or more piercing protrusions 50, 100.

[0153] In some or all embodiments, the plunger 140 can include a plunger sidewall 142 and a plunger bottom wall 152 that define an internal plunger cavity 148. The internal plunger cavity 148 can be configured to receive the second end of the sausage casing 2.

[0154] In some or all embodiments, the plunger 140 can include a plurality of plunger protrusions 154, each plunger protrusion 154 including a plunger protrusion wall 156 that extends from the plunger bottom wall 152 into the plunger cavity 148. The plunger protrusion wall 156 and the plunger bottom wall 152 can define a plunger protrusion cavity in communication with the plunger cavity 148.

[0155] In some or all embodiments, the length of the plunger protrusion wall 156 from the plunger bottom wall 152 can be greater than the length of the nozzle sidewall 32, 82 from the plunger bottom wall 152

[0156] In some or all embodiments, the plunger sidewall 142 can include an inner side 146 and an angled outer side 144 that partially define the plunger cavity 148, such that a first thickness of the free end of the plunger sidewall 142 is less than a second thickness of the plunger sidewall 142 adjacent the plunger bottom wall 152.

[0157] In some or all embodiments, the plunger 140 can include a second plunger sidewall 142 that is inverted from and extends from the plunger sidewall 142. The plunger 140 can also include a second plunger protrusion 154 that is inverted from and extends from the plunger bottom wall 152.

[0158] In some or all embodiments, the plunger protrusion wall 156 can be configured to form the geometric plunger protrusion 154.

[0159] In some or all embodiments, the plunger rod 16 can include a plunger adapter 24 that includes a protruding protrusion 26 that can be configured to be received in an open space defined in the plunger protrusion 154 of the plunger 140.

[0160] While the embodiments of the sausage packaging dispensing system have been described in detail, it should be apparent that modifications and changes thereto are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology. Accordingly, it is intended that the best ratio of the parts of the technology (including variations in size, materials, shape, form, function, and the manner of operation, assembly, and use) be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and that all equivalents reside within the scope of the technology as described and claimed. For example, any suitable strong material can be used in place of the materials described above. And while the controlled dispensing of material from a sausage package has been described, it should be understood that the sausage packaging dispensing system described herein is also suitable for dispensing any material stored in a package or container by piercing the package using the forward pressure provided by the moving piston.

[0161] Accordingly, the foregoing is to be considered as illustrative only of the principles of the technology. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the technology to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents thereof are intended to reside within the scope of the technology.

Claims

1. A nozzle for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device, the nozzle comprising: a nozzle body including a nozzle opening defined through the nozzle body and a nozzle cavity defined in the nozzle body, the nozzle opening being in fluid communication with the nozzle cavity, the nozzle cavity being configured to receive a first end of the collapsible package; one or more piercing protrusions extending into the nozzle cavity, the one or more piercing protrusions including two or more piercing walls angularly oriented to one another to form a V-shape, wherein the two or more piercing walls each include a beveled edge converging to form a piercing tip; and an interior rib extending across the nozzle opening, the interior rib including a middle portion extending over the nozzle opening and piercing protrusion portions extending from opposite ends of the middle portion at an angle toward the piercing protrusions, wherein the piercing protrusion portions intersect the piercing protrusions at a location proximate to or offset from the piercing tip to be separate from the piercing tip.

2. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the interior rib is configured to divide the nozzle opening into two or more opposing regions.

3. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the piercing protrusions are configured to pierce the collapsible package and allow dispensing of material in the collapsible package through the nozzle opening when the first end of the collapsible package is urged toward the piercing protrusions.

4. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the nozzle further comprises a tab defining a tab aperture defined through the tab and in communication with the nozzle opening.

5. The nozzle of claim 1, further comprising one or more recessed members extending into the nozzle cavity, the one or more piercing protrusion portions extending partially from the one or more recessed members.

6. The nozzle of claim 5, wherein the one or more recessed members each have a pair of opposing recessed member sidewalls, one or more recessed member end walls, and a recessed member bottom wall, and the two or more piercing walls extend from any one or any combination of the opposing recessed member sidewalls, the one or more recessed member end walls, and the recessed member bottom wall.

7. The nozzle of claim 1, further comprising a puncturing tooth directed in a direction away from a nozzle end wall and into the nozzle cavity, the puncturing tooth configured to puncture the first end of the collapsible package.

8. A nozzle for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from a dispensing device, the nozzle comprising: a nozzle sidewall defining a nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the collapsible package; one or more piercing protrusions extending into the nozzle cavity, the one or more piercing protrusions including two or more piercing walls angularly oriented to one another to form a V-shape, wherein the two or more piercing walls each include a beveled edge converging to form a piercing tip; a nozzle end wall including a nozzle opening defined therethrough and in fluid communication with the nozzle cavity; and an interior rib extending across the nozzle opening, the interior rib dividing the nozzle opening into two or more opposing regions, the interior rib including a middle portion extending across the nozzle opening and a piercing protrusion portion extending at an angle from opposite ends of the middle portion toward the piercing protrusion, wherein the piercing protrusion portion intersects the piercing protrusion at a location proximate to or offset from a piercing tip to be separate from the piercing tip.

9. The nozzle of claim 8, wherein the piercing protrusion is configured to pierce the collapsible package and allow dispensing of material in the collapsible package through the nozzle opening when the first end of the collapsible package is urged toward the piercing protrusion.

10. The nozzle of claim 8, wherein the nozzle further comprises a ledge, the ledge defining a ledge aperture defined therethrough and in communication with the nozzle opening.

11. A nozzle attachable to a dispensing end of a dispensing device for dispensing material contained in a collapsible package from the dispensing device, the nozzle comprising: a nozzle side wall defining an interior nozzle cavity configured to receive a first end of the collapsible package; one or more recessed members extending into the interior nozzle cavity; a nozzle end wall including a nozzle opening defined therethrough and in fluid communication with the interior nozzle cavity; an interior rib extending across the nozzle opening, the interior rib dividing the nozzle opening into two or more opposing regions, the interior rib including a middle portion extending across the nozzle opening and a piercing protrusion portion extending at an angle from opposite ends of the middle portion toward the piercing protrusion; and one or more piercing protrusions extending partially from the one or more recessed members, the one or more piercing protrusions configured to pierce the collapsible package and allow dispensing of material in the collapsible package through the nozzle opening, the one or more piercing protrusions including two or more piercing walls angularly oriented relative to one another to form a V-shape, wherein the two or more piercing walls each include angled edges converging to form a piercing tip, wherein the piercing protrusion portion intersects the piercing protrusion at a location proximate to or offset from a piercing tip to be separate from the piercing tip.

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