A compounding device with a clogging prevention mechanism.

Abstract

A preparation delivery device, such as one used for dyeing hair, can be used for hair and scalp treatments. This device may include a delivery device having a pump configured to draw the preparation from a container and discharge the fluid through a manifold to a head section comprising at least one nozzle and a plurality of standoff projections. The delivery device may further include a occlusion member, which, when the occlusion member is in the occlusion position, isolates the preparation in the delivery device from the ambient air, and when the occlusion member is in the open position, allows the pump to discharge the preparation from the nozzle. The delivery device can be mounted on a docking station having a storage tank containing a cleaning fluid. The docking station provides the cleaning fluid to the delivery device once it is docked.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] ,

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 511,281, filed on June 30, 2023. This application also claims priority to French Patent Application Publication No. 2309674, filed on September 14, 2023. The entire disclosures of both applications are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0002] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​In one embodiment, the disclosure relates particularly to a typical embodiment of a formulation delivery device. In one example, the formulation delivery device is a hair coloring device having a consumable assembly. The embodiments described herein generally relate to a hair and scalp treatment device. The consumable assembly of the device may be configured to incorporate various components of the hair and scalp treatment device, the parts of which may be used up and then replaced by the user. In this context, the consumable assembly may include one or more formulation delivery packs, nozzles, manifold chambers, dispensing heads, etc. The formulation delivery device may also include degassing capabilities to release gases from the consumable assembly when attached to a delivery device.

[0005] According to one embodiment described herein, a preparation delivery device includes a container having an opening and configured to hold a certain amount of preparation. The preparation delivery device further includes a delivery device having a pump configured to draw the preparation from the container and discharge the fluid through a manifold to a head portion. The head portion includes at least one nozzle and a plurality of standoff projections. The delivery device further includes a occluding member configured to move selectively between an occluded position and an open position. The occluding member isolates the preparation in the delivery device from the ambient air when the occluding member is in the occluded position, and allows the pump to discharge the preparation from the nozzle when the occluding member is in the open position.

[0006] According to any embodiment described herein, the occlusion mechanism defines a cap that can be selectively attached to a standoff projection, and the cap is removably coupled to the head portion, the inner surface of which, when the cap is coupled to the head portion, blocks the outlet of each of the multiple nozzles.

[0007] According to any embodiment described herein, each standoff projection has an engagement mechanism formed on its end, which engages with a corresponding stopper formed on the cap when the cap is coupled to the head portion.

[0008] According to any embodiment described herein, the closing member includes a shutter that is closed in the closed position and open in the open position.

[0009] According to any embodiment described herein, the shutter prevents the discharge of the preparation from the manifold to the head when the shutter is in the closed position.

[0010] According to any embodiment described herein, the shutter moves along a linear path to reciprocate between an open position and a closed position.

[0011] According to any embodiment described herein, the shutter is at least partially disposed within the distribution channel of the manifold.

[0012] According to any embodiment described herein, the shutter is manually movable between an open position and a closed position.

[0013] According to one embodiment described herein, a docking station is suitable for use with a preparation delivery device. This device includes an elongated engaging element having a channel in fluid communication with a pump, the pump configured to draw in fluid through the engaging element and discharge the fluid into a manifold, the manifold bringing the fluid to at least one nozzle. The docking station is configured to sealably receive the engaging member, thereby the pump may include a mount that fluid-engages with a storage tank filled with cleaning fluid. The pump is configured to draw in cleaning fluid from the storage tank and discharge the cleaning fluid into a manifold and through at least one nozzle.

[0014] According to any embodiment described herein, the engaging element is disposed within a cavity of the delivery assembly, and the mount is manufactured and configured to be sized to be received within the cavity.

[0015] According to any embodiment described herein, the mount is rotatably coupled to the base.

[0016] According to any embodiment described herein, the storage tank is disposed within a base and, once the engaging member is received by the mount, fluid communication is established with the engaging member through a pipe.

[0017] According to any embodiment described herein, a valve is in fluid communication with a pipe and restricts the flow of fluid from the pipe toward a storage tank.

[0018] According to any embodiment described herein, the base further includes a recess configured to receive fluid discharged from at least one nozzle.

[0019] According to any embodiment described herein, the mount is configured to reciprocate between a vertical position and a horizontal position, and at least one nozzle extends at least partially within a recess when the mount is received within a cavity of the delivery assembly and is in the horizontal position.

[0020] According to any embodiment described herein, the recess is in fluid communication with a storage tank, thereby returning the fluid discharged from at least one nozzle to the storage tank.

[0021] According to any embodiment described herein, the recess is in fluid communication with a collection tank disposed within the base, thereby allowing fluid discharged from at least one nozzle to be collected by the collection tank.

[0022] According to any embodiment described herein, the docking station further comprises a power supply configured to charge a delivery device.

[0023] According to any of the embodiments described herein, when the container is attached to the engagement element, the engagement element breaks the membrane and creates a hole in the membrane, thereby changing the container from a sealed state to an unsealed state.

[0024] According to any of the embodiments described herein, when the engagement element is at least partially received within the opening of the container, the vent opening is in fluid communication with the formulation.

[0025] According to any of the embodiments described herein, when the engagement element breaks the membrane, the vent opening is unsealed.

[0026] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the container includes an end fitting that defines the opening.

[0027] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the container further includes a sealing member that is in sealing engagement with the end fitting, the sealing member having a passageway that extends therethrough and is in fluid communication with the interior of the container and the opening defined by the end fitting.

[0028] According to any of the embodiments described herein, when the container is attached to the engagement element, the engagement element engages the sealing member of the container in a sealed manner.

[0029] According to any of the embodiments described herein, when the container is attached to the engagement element, the sealing member seals the vent opening.

[0030] According to any of the embodiments described herein, when the engagement sealing member is attached to the engagement element and the container is attached to the engagement element, the engagement sealing member provides a sealed engagement between the engagement element and the end fitting.

[0031] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the engagement sealing member is an O-ring.

[0032] According to any of the embodiments described herein, the formulation is selected from the group consisting of permanent hair dyes, semi-permanent hair dyes, colorants, conditioners, hair growth treatments, ROGAINE®, hair protein treatments, disulfide bond repair hair treatments, OLAPLEX®, liquid hair treatments, and liquid scalp treatments.

[0033] According to any embodiment described herein, the preparation delivery device further includes a second container configured to hold a certain amount of a second preparation, and a second elongated engaging element configured to be at least partially received by the second container. The preparation delivery device further includes a manifold configured to receive the first and second preparations from the first and second containers, respectively.

[0034] According to any embodiment described herein, the formulation delivery device further includes a head assembly configured to receive a mixture of a first formulation and a second formulation from a manifold and to distribute the mixture to at least one of the user's hair and scalp.

[0035] According to other embodiments described herein, a preparation delivery device includes a first container having a first opening and configured to contain a certain amount of a first preparation, and a first elongated engaging element having a first channel extending therethrough and configured to at least partially receive the first opening of the first container when the first container is attached to the engaging element. A first ventilation opening is formed in the first engaging element, and when the first container is disengaged from the engaging element, the first channel provides fluid communication between the first channel and the region outside the engaging element. The first ventilation opening is sealed, and when the first container is attached to the engaging element, the first channel receives the flow of the first preparation from the first container. The preparation delivery device further includes a pump which is in fluid communication with the first channel of the engaging element for drawing the first preparation from the first fluid container. The preparation delivery device further includes a head portion which is in fluid communication with the pump and configured to discharge the first preparation.

[0036] According to any embodiment described herein, the preparation delivery device further includes a second container having a second opening and configured to contain a certain amount of the second preparation. A second elongated engaging element has a second channel extending through it and configured to be at least partially received by the second opening of the second container when the second container is attached to the second engaging element. A manifold is configured to mix the first preparation and the second preparation received from the pump and to supply the mixture of the first preparation and the second preparation to a head section.

[0037] According to any embodiment described herein, a second ventilation opening is formed in the second engagement element, and when the second container is disengaged from the second engagement element, a fluid communication is established between the second channel and the region outside the second engagement element. When the second ventilation opening is sealed and the second container is attached to the second engagement element, the second channel receives the flow of the second formulation from the second container.

[0038] According to any embodiment described herein, the first formulation is a hair dye, and the second formulation is a color developer.

[0039] When used in conjunction with the attached drawings, many of the above aspects and associated advantages of the present invention will be better understood by referring to the following detailed description, and will therefore be easier to comprehend. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0040] [Figure 1] This figure is a perspective view of a typical embodiment of a preparation delivery device according to an aspect of the present disclosure, the device including a consumable assembly attached to the delivery assembly. [Figure 2] This is another perspective view of the device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional side view of the device. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a partially exploded perspective view of the device, showing the consumable assembly detached from the delivery assembly. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is another partially exploded perspective view of the device. [Figure 6] Figure 4 is another partially exploded perspective view of the device, with the delivery assembly housing portion removed. [Figure 7] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the device. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional plan view of the consumable assembly of the delivery assembly shown. [Figure 9] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional and side view of the head section and the delivery assembly manifold. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional plan view of the manifold shown. [Figure 11] Figure 3 is a partial side view of the device shown, in which the consumable assembly is attached to the delivery assembly, and the end fittings of the consumable assembly are not yet engaged with the coupler of the delivery assembly. [Figure 12] This is a partial side view showing the coupler making initial contact with the end fitting. [Figure 13] This is a partial side view showing the coupler breaking through the membrane sealing the compounding container of the consumable assembly. [Figure 14] This is a partial side view, showing the consumable assembly attached to the delivery assembly. [Figure 15] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the device with a clog-preventing cap attached to the head of the device. [Figure 16] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the device with the clog-prevention cap removed from the head of the device. [Figure 17] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the end of the device, with a clog-preventing cap attached to the head of the device. [Figure 18] This figure shows a partial side cross-sectional view of a compound delivery device of another embodiment according to one aspect of the present disclosure, with the sealing mechanism removed. [Figure 19] This is a cross-sectional view of the side of that section, showing the sealing mechanism in engagement. [Figure 20] Figure 1 is a side view of a suitable cleaning cartridge for cleaning the compounding device shown. [Figure 21] Figure 1 is a side view of a typical embodiment of a docking station for a compound delivery device, in which the delivery assembly is positioned to be mounted on the docking station, and the docking station is in a first configuration. [Figure 22] This is a side view of the delivery assembly attached to the docking station, and the docking station is in a second configuration. [Figure 23] This is a side view, showing the docking station in the second configuration. [Figure 24]Figure 1 is a side view of another typical embodiment of a docking station for a compound delivery device, in which the delivery assembly is positioned to be mounted on the docking station, and the docking station is in the first configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0041] The following description provides several examples of hair and scalp treatment applicators and formulation delivery devices. Applying various treatment formulations to human hair and scalp tissue is a common practice. In some cases, it is beneficial to apply the treatment formulation to a target area of ​​hair or scalp tissue. For example, when applying color dyes to hair follicles during a color maintenance treatment, it may be desirable to apply the treatment formulation to the hair near the scalp. In another case, it may be desirable to apply the treatment formulation directly to the scalp tissue while minimizing contact with the hair.

[0042] Existing systems for applying hair and scalp treatment formulations have been widely used. For example, hair coloring kits are commonly used, among other uses, to alter the appearance of hair color or to blend gray hair. Existing hair coloring systems may utilize two or more components that are separately packaged and then mixed according to the system's requirements to provide a treatment formulation applied to the hair. In some examples, these components are stored separately in sealed containers before being installed in the application system. Once the container is installed in the application system, the container is opened so that the components stored inside can be extracted, mixed, and applied by the user.

[0043] Examples of treatment formulations applied by the embodiments herein include, but are not limited to, permanent hair dyes, semi-permanent hair dyes, colorants, conditioners, hair growth treatments such as minoxidil manufactured under the trademark ROGAINE®, hair protein treatments, disulfide bond repair hair treatments such as OLAPLEX®, liquid hair treatments, liquid scalp treatments, etc. Any hair and scalp treatment formulation can be appropriately applied using the embodiments of the instruments described herein, but this disclosure generally refers to hair color formulations as examples of treatment formulations applied by the instruments described below. However, it should be understood that any of the listed hair and scalp treatment formulations are interchangeable with the color formulations described herein.

[0044] The following description provides examples of systems, apparatus, and / or instruments of formulation delivery devices configured to apply a treatment formulation to a target area of ​​hair and / or scalp. The instruments of this disclosure generally include a delivery device configured to be held in the user's hand and a head portion having a plurality of nozzles from which a colored formulation is discharged. In some embodiments, the head portion may further include a plurality of standoff protrusions near the nozzles to separate the nozzle orifices from the scalp during use. In other embodiments, the nozzles may be moved during use, for example by reciprocating or vibrating, so that the nozzles can deliver the treatment formulation to a more complete area.

[0045] An example of the aforementioned system is disclosed in Patent Document 1, issued to Grez, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Patent Document 1 teaches the application of a hair coloring formulation comprising at least one dye and a separate developer, which must typically be mixed in controlled proportions for effective and predictable results. As used in Patent Document 1 and in this application, the term “coloring formulation” generally refers to any of the dyes, developers, formulations, fluids, or any mixtures thereof.

[0046] Some components of coloring formulations are known to generate gas over time. As a result, a sealed container filled with a coloring formulation may be at least partially filled with gas generated between the time the container was initially sealed and the time the coloring formulation is used. The mixing ratio of the coloring formulation can be important for the safety and effectiveness of the hair coloring system, and the gas generated by the coloring formulation when sealed in the container can adversely affect this ratio. In known embodiments, the device may be operated to dispense the coloring formulation along with any accumulated gas before applying it to the hair. However, such a structure wastes the coloring formulation.

[0047] By using the embodiments of this disclosure, when the container is first connected to the device, any gas accumulated in the sealed container of the colored preparation is released. Thus, the desired mixing ratio of the colored preparation is automatically maintained without wasting any of the preparation.

[0048] Although the formulation delivery device 100 and other exemplary embodiments are described and illustrated for use with multiple nozzles, it should be understood that the formulation delivery devices illustrated and described herein may be used with any suitable formulation applicator structure and for any suitable application.

[0049] Figures 1 to 7 show typical embodiments of the formulation delivery device 100 according to the embodiments of this disclosure. The formulation delivery device 100 is shown as an instrument having a delivery assembly 110 and a consumable assembly 300. Therefore, the formulation delivery device 100 will hereafter be referred to as instrument 100.

[0050] As will be described in more detail, an embodiment of the consumable assembly 300 includes two or more formulation containers 308 and 314, the interior of which is in fluid communication with a pump 190 via a coupler 140. The pump 190 draws formulation from each of the formulation containers 308 and 314 and discharges the formulation into a manifold 210. The formulation is mixed by a static mixer as it passes through the manifold 210 and then discharged through a head section 240, which is applied to the user's hair and / or scalp.

[0051] The consumable assembly 300 is described here with reference to the cross-sectional views in Figures 3, 7, and 8. The consumable assembly 300 allows the user to replace an empty coloring compound container and / or to utilize various coloring compoundes using the delivery device. In this regard, the consumable assembly 300 is configured to be removably connected to the delivery assembly 110 to form the device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable assembly 300 includes an elongated housing 302 that is manufactured and configured to be sized to be received within a cavity 118 of the housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110 for mounting the consumable assembly to the delivery assembly.

[0052] The consumable assembly 300 is configured to be removably received within a cavity 118 of the delivery assembly 110 so that the delivery assembly and the consumable assembly cooperate to form the device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 302 of the consumable assembly 300 engages with a retaining mechanism 126 formed on the housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110 and includes a release button 304 that, once the consumable assembly is installed therein, removably secures the consumable assembly to the delivery assembly (see Figure 3). To release the release button 304 from the retaining mechanism 126, the user presses the release button 304 to release the release button from the retaining mechanism, thereby allowing the consumable assembly to be removed from the delivery assembly 110. In other embodiments, other fastening configurations such as press-fits, fasteners, hooks and loops, removable adhesives, and magnets may be used as appropriate. Additional fastening mechanisms, such as a lower retainer, which may provide greater fastening force between the consumable assembly 300 and the delivery assembly 110, are also within the scope of this disclosure. In other embodiments, any number or combination of fastening mechanisms can be appropriately used to secure the consumable assembly 300 to the delivery assembly 110.

[0053] Referring further to Figures 3, 7, and 8, the consumable assembly 300 includes a first formulation container 308 and a second formulation container 314, which are disposed within a cavity 306 of the housing 302. The first formulation container 308 and the second formulation container 314 contain the first formulation 310 and the second formulation 316, respectively. In some embodiments, the first formulation container 308 contains a coloring formulation such as a coloring dye, and the second formulation container 314 contains a color developer. In other embodiments, a single formulation container having the coloring formulation is appropriately used.

[0054] Using a developer with a coloring dye formulation results in a longer-lasting color, sometimes lasting up to about a month. This combination of dye and developer is generally referred to as permanent coloring, while applying the dye without a developer typically results in semi-permanent coloring, usually lasting about a week. The developer can be used in a single formulation container or in multiple formulation containers.

[0055] The first preparation container 308 is described here under the understanding that the second preparation container 314 is similarly configured and, in some embodiments, contains a second preparation 316 that is different from the first preparation 310 contained in the first preparation container 308. The first preparation container 308 includes a pack 320, or reservoir, configured to be filled with the first preparation 310. In some embodiments, the pack 320 is a flexible pouch. In some embodiments, the pack is a rigid or semi-rigid container.

[0056] As best shown in Figures 11–14, the preparation container 308 further includes an end fitting 322 attached to one end of the pack 320 and configured to interact with the coupler 140, which will be described later. In this context, the end fitting 322 includes an opening 324 that is manufactured and configured to be sized to receive the engaging element 144 of the coupler 140 when the consumable assembly 300 is attached to the delivery assembly 110, so that the engaging element extends into the preparation container 308. The end fitting 322 further includes a stopper 326 formed on top that engages with the coupler 140 to restrict the movement of the engaging element 144 into the preparation container 308.

[0057] The sealing member 328 is positioned between the end fitting 322 and the pack 320. The opening 330 extends through the sealing member 328 and is fabricated and configured to be sized to receive the engaging element 144 of the coupler 140 in a sealing engagement when the consumable assembly 300 is attached to the delivery assembly 110. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, a membrane 332 covers one end of the opening 330. The membrane 332, in combination with the sealing engagement of the sealing member 328 with both the pack 320 and the end fitting 322, seals the pack so that the preparation 310 contained in the pack is separated from the surrounding environment. In some embodiments, the membrane 332 is a unidirectional or bidirectional permeable membrane configured to allow gas release from the pack 320 without allowing contaminants to enter or the contents of the pack to escape. In further embodiments, the sealing member 328 includes a valve (not shown) used in conjunction with any of the embodiments herein, which is configured to regulate the flow of fluid from the pack 320. Any combination of the above mechanisms may also be used.

[0058] Herein, the delivery assembly 110 will be described in more detail. The housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110 is generally configured to house and enclose the various components of the delivery assembly 110, which will be described in more detail below. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the housing 112 includes a control button 120, a power indicator light 122, and a port 124. The housing 112 provides a surface for the user to grip with their hand while using the instrument 100. In this regard, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 112 is ergonomically shaped. However, in other embodiments, the housing 112 is any suitable shape that encloses the internal components and provides one or more gripping surfaces for the user. In further embodiments, the consumable assembly 300 may form at least a portion of the gripping surface for the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 112 includes a first housing portion 114 and a second housing portion 116 which are connected to each other and at least partially define a cavity 118 inside (see Figure 5). In further embodiments, the housing 112 has a single structure or includes three or more parts that are connected together to at least partially define a cavity.

[0059] The housing 112 accommodates various instrument control components, such as one or more pumps 190 (see Figure 3), motors driving the pumps 190, a CPU, a battery, a communication system (wireless networking (WiFi), radio frequency identification (RFID), near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth®, etc.), electrical and data connectors at port 124 (universal serial bus (USB), FireWire, etc.), a temperature sensor, an accelerometer, a fluid sensor, a data scanner, a light source, an audible signal generator, a fluid heat source, a temperature controller, and one or more of other suitable control components not shown in the figures for simplicity. In some embodiments, port 124 is appropriately used to bring interaction between the internal and external control components of the instrument 100 and / or to charge the battery of the instrument 100.

[0060] The control button 120 may be configured for the functions of starting, stopping, and controlling the device 100. In some embodiments, pressing the control button 120 powers on the device 100 so that the colored compound is drawn from the compound containers 308 and 314 (see Figure 8). In these embodiments, releasing the control button 120 can stop the colored compound flow. In some examples, the control button 120 may be used to initialize the device 100, or to put the device 100 into a state that performs one or more of the following functions: calculating the mixing ratio of the components of the colored compound, entering a cleaning or removal mode, heating the compound, collecting data such as remaining volume, mixing ratio, and color information from the compound container, sending and receiving signals through port 124, analyzing data on user preferences, collecting data from sensors, providing the user with status indicators such as power output level, battery life, remaining compound volume, sensor data, and data connection information, and communicating with auxiliary equipment. In some embodiments, the control button 120 is pressure-sensitive, and as a result, applying higher pressure to the control button 120 produces a variable response, such as making the mixture flow faster or moving the nozzle faster. In some embodiments, various operating parameters can be controlled using a smart device such as a telephone (described in detail in Patent Document 2, issued to Grez and incorporated herein by reference).

[0061] Referring to Figures 3, 6, and 11–14, the coupler 140 is mounted within the housing 112 and configured to engage with the inner portions of the preparation containers 308 and 314, so that the preparations 310 and 316 contained therein can be drawn out for application to the user. The coupler 140 includes a base 142 mounted within the housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110. A pair of elongated engaging elements 144 extend from the base 142 into the cavity 306, with each engaging element terminating at a tip 146 opposite the base 142. Each engaging element 144 is fabricated and positioned to extend through the consumable assembly opening 324 into one of the preparation containers 308 and 314 when the consumable assembly 300 is mounted on the delivery assembly 110.

[0062] As best shown in Figures 11 to 14, each engaging element 144 has a channel 148 extending through the element to a port 150 formed on the opposite side of the base 142. Each engaging element 144 may further include a sealing element 154, such as an O-ring, attached to the outer surface of the engaging element. The sealing element 154 is manufactured and configured to be sized to seal-engage with the inner surface of a corresponding opening 330 through which the sealing element extends when the consumable assembly 300 is attached to the delivery assembly 110. One or more openings 152 (vent openings) extend radially between the sealing element 154 and the tip 146 of the engaging element, passing through a portion of the engaging element 144.

[0063] With respect to each port 150 on the coupler 140, a compounding pipe is attached to the port at one end and to the pump 190 at the second end. In this context, each compounding pipe provides fluid communication between one of the ports 150 and the inlet of the pump 190. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable assembly 300 includes two compounding vessels 308 and 314, each having a corresponding opening 324. The coupler 140 includes two elongated elements 144, each elongated element corresponding to one of the openings 324 of the compounding vessels 308 and 314. A first compounding pipe 170 is attached to the port 150 of the coupler 140 at one end and to the first inlet of the pump 190 at the second end. Similarly, a second compounding pipe 172 is attached to the other port 150 of the coupler 140 at one end and to the second inlet of the pump 190 at the second end. As a result, when the consumable assembly 300 is attached to the delivery assembly 110, the interior of the first formulation container 308 is in communication with the first inlet port of the pump and the sealing fluid, and the interior of the second formulation container 314 is in communication with the second inlet port of the pump 190 and the sealing fluid.

[0064] In other embodiments, the consumable assembly 300 includes any appropriate number of formulation containers. In such embodiments, the coupler 140 includes a corresponding number of engaging elements and ports such that each engaging element engages with one of the formulation containers, and each port is in fluid communication with the inlet port of the pump 190 via a formulation tube. As a result, the interior of each formulation container is in sealed fluid communication with the inlet port of the pump. In some embodiments, the delivery assembly 100 includes two or more pumps, each pump being in sealed fluid communication with the interior of one or more formulation containers via corresponding engaging elements and formulation tubes.

[0065] Pump 190 is driven by a suitable motor (not shown) and is configured to draw colored formulations 310 and 316 from formulation containers 308 and 314, respectively, through formulation pipes 170 and 172, respectively. In some embodiments, pump 190 includes several discharge ports corresponding to the number of inlets. Each discharge port is in fluid communication with a corresponding inlet port on manifold 210. In the illustrated embodiment, a first discharge port (not shown) discharges the first formulation component 310 received from the first formulation container 308 to the first manifold inlet port 214 of manifold 210, and a second discharge port (not shown) discharges the second formulation component 316 received from the second formulation container 314 to the second manifold inlet port 216 of manifold. In this regard (referring to Figures 3 and 9), the first pump discharge port is in communication with the first manifold inlet port 214 via the first discharge pipe 174, and the second pump discharge port is in communication with the second manifold inlet port 216 via the second discharge pipe 176.

[0066] In some embodiments, a peristaltic pump 190 is used. In this regard, one advantage of the peristaltic type pump is that the pump is self-priming. However, in other embodiments, any suitable pump or series of pumps is used to draw the colored mixture from the mixture containers 308 and 314 to the manifold 210.

[0067] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the manifold 210 receives the colored formulations 310 and 316 from the pump 190 and mixes the components as the colored formulations move toward the head section 240. In this context, the manifold housing 212 includes multiple chambers for mixing, processing, and discharge control of the colored formulations from the formulation containers 308 and 314.

[0068] In this embodiment, the manifold 210 includes a housing 212 having a first mixing chamber 218 arranged in conjunction with a second mixing chamber 222. The first mixing chamber 218 receives colored formulations 310 and 316 from the pump through a first inlet port 214 and a second inlet port 216, respectively. A static mixer 220 is located in the first mixing chamber 218 and mixes the colored formulations 310 and 316 as they move through the first mixing chamber. The colored formulations 310 and 316 then move through the second mixing chamber 222 and are further mixed by a second static mixer 224 located therein. The mixed colored formulations 310 and 316 then move through a distribution channel 226 that distributes the mixture to a nozzle 242 of the head unit 240.

[0069] The head portion 240 has a plurality of elongated nozzles 242 extending from the manifold 210. Each elongated nozzle 242 includes a channel 244 that extends through it and is configured to discharge the colored formulation received from the manifold 210 to the outside through another outlet opening 246 at the end of the nozzle 242 when the instrument 100 is in use. In some embodiments (as shown in Figures 1, 4, and 9), the nozzles 242 are generally arranged in one or more rows along a portion of the housing 112 of the delivery assembly 110, in a direction along the length of the instrument 100. In other embodiments, the nozzles 242 are appropriately positioned at an angle to the length of the instrument 100.

[0070] In some embodiments, the nozzle 242 has a length of approximately 0.5 cm to approximately 4.0 cm from the manifold 210 to the end of the nozzle 242 at the outlet opening 246. In other embodiments, the nozzle 242 has a length of approximately 1.4 cm to approximately 1.8 cm from the manifold 210 to the end of the nozzle 242 at the outlet opening 246. In yet another embodiment, the nozzle 242 has a length of approximately 1.6 cm from the manifold 210 to the end of the nozzle 242 at the outlet opening 246. In further embodiments, any length of the nozzle is used as appropriate.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of standoff projections 248 extend outward from the housing 112 substantially toward the nozzle 242 in one or more rows. In this context, “substantially toward the nozzle 242” means within an angle of about 25 degrees in the direction along the length of the nozzle 242. In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 248 of the first row and the projections 248 of the second row are arranged along both sides of a single row of elongated nozzles 242. In some embodiments, the standoff projections 248 may be arranged at an angle to a plurality of nozzles 242. (See, for example, Figure 4 of Patent Document 3, incorporated herein by reference.)

[0072] In some embodiments, each of the standoff projections 248 has a length (measured between the housing 112 and the end of the standoff projection 248) such that the end of the standoff projection 248 and the outlet opening 246 of the nozzle 242 are substantially coplanar. In other embodiments, the standoff projection 248 has a length (from the housing 112 to the end of the standoff projection 248) such that the standoff projection 248 is longer than the length of the nozzle 242 (measured between the housing 112 and the end of the nozzle 242). In this context, during use, the standoff projection 248 is thought to contact the application surface, such as a localized area of ​​the scalp, and separate the outlet opening 246 of the nozzle 242 from the application surface, providing a gap for the release of the coloring formulation through the outlet opening 246. In embodiments where the standoff projection 248 is longer than the multiple nozzles 242, the standoff projection 248 is about 0.1 mm to 5.0 mm longer than the length of each of the multiple nozzles 242. In other embodiments, the standoff projection 248 is about 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm longer than the length of each of the nozzles 242. In other embodiments, the standoff projection 248 is about 1.0 mm longer than the length of each of the nozzles 242.

[0073] The nozzles 242 extend from the surface of the manifold housing 212 so that when the user passes the instrument 100 over a surface, such as the scalp, portions of the user's hair pass between the nozzles 242. In some embodiments, the nozzles 242 are configured to reciprocate by the reciprocating motion of the manifold 210 along the direction of the row of nozzles 242. In this context, when the instrument 100 is passed over the surface in a direction perpendicular to the row of nozzles 242, the manifold housing 212 moves parallel to the housing 112 so that the coloring compound covers the surface area between each of the nozzles 242. As a result, the entire surface beneath the nozzles 242 can be covered by the coloring compound without the need to pass the instrument 100 over the surface. In other embodiments, the nozzles 242 of the instrument are configured to oscillate, reciprocate along the length of the nozzle 242, vibrate, or remain stationary during use. An embodiment in which the head portion is moved back and forth is described in Patent Document 1.

[0074] As described above, in some embodiments, an energy source (e.g., a heat source, not shown) may be added anywhere in the coloring formulation logistics path to raise the temperature of the formulation, or the energy source may be added to the apparatus 100 so that heat is transferred to the application surface, e.g., the scalp. In this regard, with respect to some formulations, applying the formulation to the user at a raised temperature, or heating the application surface, may be beneficial in terms of either or both user comfort and the efficacy of the formulation. In these embodiments, the heat source is configured to supply energy to the formulation or the application surface. In some embodiments, the energy source is an ultraviolet radiation source configured to irradiate a plurality of nozzles 242 to transfer ultraviolet radiation to the application surface, such as hair follicles and / or scalp tissue. In other embodiments, the energy source is a heat source configured to heat the formulation before it is emitted from a plurality of outlet nozzles 242.

[0075] As previously discussed, some colored formulations generate gas over time. As a result, a sealed formulation container filled with a colored formulation may become partially filled with undesirable gas when the consumption assembly 300 is first attached to the delivery assembly 110. Even embodiments of the container having a bidirectional permeable membrane may accumulate gas within the container, as previously described. Herein, as illustrated with reference to Figures 11–14, embodiments of the disclosed apparatus 100 achieve degassing of the container when the consumption assembly 300 is attached to the delivery assembly 110.

[0076] Referring here to Figure 11, the consumable assembly 300 is shown partially inserted into the cavity 118 of the delivery assembly 110. The preparation container 308 of the consumable assembly 300 is in a sealed configuration with the membrane 332 intact. The container 308 is filled with the preparation 310 and a certain amount of gas 312 generated by the preparation due to gas release accumulated in the container. The engagement of the consumable assembly 300 with the housing 112 of the delivery assembly aligns each engaging element 144 of the coupler 140 with a corresponding opening 324 of the preparation container 308. In Figure 12, the consumable assembly 300 is further inserted into the cavity 118 of the delivery assembly 110, with the tip 146 of the engaging element 144 in contact with the sealing member 328 and the membrane 332 still intact. That is, the preparation container 308 is still in a sealed configuration.

[0077] Referring to Figure 13, further movement of the consumable assembly 300 into the cavity 118 causes the tip 146 of the engaging element 144 to break the membrane 332. With the membrane broken, the preparation container is in an unsealed configuration. As the consumable assembly 300 continues to move into the cavity 118, the engaging element 144 is received into the sealing engagement by the opening 330 of the sealing member 328. As a result of this sealing engagement, the channel 148 of the engaging element 144 is in communication with the interior of the preparation container 308 and the sealing fluid. As shown in Figure 13, a gap exists between the outer surface of the engaging element 144 and the opening 324 of the end fitting 322. The ventilation opening 152 formed in the engaging element 144 opens into this gap. As a result, the gas 312 has a path to vent out of the preparation container 308 so that the container is degassed before first use.

[0078] Figure 14 shows the consumable assembly 300 fully mounted to the delivery assembly 110. The engaging element 144 of the coupler 140 contacts the stopper 326 of the end fitting 322, preventing further movement of the consumable assembly 300 into the cavity of the delivery assembly 110. As previously described, the release button 304 engages with the return mechanism 126 (see Figure 3) of the delivery assembly 110 so that the consumable assembly 300 is releasably coupled to the delivery assembly. The sealing member 154 (O-ring) is sealed and engaged with the end fitting 322 to block the ventilation path shown in Figure 13. In some embodiments, the engagement of the sealing member 328 of the preparation container 308 with the engaging element 144 covers the ventilation opening 152, further blocking the ventilation path shown in Figure 14. As a result, the preparation tube 170 is in communication with the inside of the preparation container 308 via a coupler, and the preparation 310 can be drawn out of the preparation container by a pump. In other words, the apparatus 100 is ready for use.

[0079] The known formulation delivery devices of the type described above draw fluid formulations through various internal components (tubes, pumps, manifolds, heads, etc.) to apply them to the user's hair and / or scalp. Once application is complete, the fluid formulation remains within the device's components. Over time, the formulation remaining within the components may dry and form solid or semi-solid blockages that clog the device's components. These blockages may, in some cases, render the device unusable. In other cases, the device remains usable, but its operational efficiency is reduced. In this regard, blockages may restrict the flow of formulations through the device to below the ideal flow rate. Furthermore, blockages may increase the workload required for the pump, thereby shortening the pump's lifespan and causing one or more batteries to run out sooner. The following describes various embodiments of anti-clogging configurations that prevent and / or mitigate clogging in formulation delivery devices.

[0080] Some anti-clogging systems prevent or reduce clogging by separating the formulation from the ambient air. In this context, formulation delivery devices act as sealed containers that prevent or slow down the drying process experienced by formulations exposed to air.

[0081] Referring to Figures 15 to 17, embodiments of the cap 350 are shown in Figures 1 to 14 and are suitable for use with the embodiments of the apparatus 100 described above. The cap 350 is manufactured and configured to be sized to be removablely attached to the head portion 240 of the apparatus 100. When the cap 350 is attached to the head portion 240 (see Figures 15 and 17), it engages sealably with the nozzle 242, closing the outlet opening 246. When the outlet opening 246 is sealed, the formulation in the nozzle 242 is separated from the ambient air, thereby limiting the drying of the formulation in the nozzle 242 and reducing or eliminating clogging.

[0082] The cap 350 includes side walls 352 configured to surround the head portion 240 and closeouts 354 extending across the ends of the side walls. As best shown in Figure 17, the cap 350 includes retaining elements 356 formed on its inner portion. Each retaining element 356 is manufactured and configured to receive an engagement mechanism 250 formed at the end of the corresponding standoff projection 248. When the cap 350 is attached to the head portion 240, the engagement mechanism 250 engages with the retaining elements 356, thereby securing the cap 350 to the head portion.

[0083] To remove the cap 350, the user pulls the cap away from the fixture 100 in the direction of the standoff projection 248, elastically deforming the standoff projection and / or sidewall 352 to release the engagement mechanism 250 from the retaining ring 356. Similarly, to mount the cap 350 onto the head portion 240, the user aligns the cap with the head portion and pushes the cap toward the fixture 100. As the cap 350 moves toward the fixture 100, the standoff projection 248 and / or sidewall 352 elastically deform until the engagement mechanism 250 seats within the corresponding retaining ring 356. Once the cap 350 is thus positioned, the engagement mechanism 250 works in cooperation with the retaining ring 356 to create an interference fit and maintain the position of the cap relative to the head portion 240. In some embodiments, the position of the mounted cap 350 is maintained by fasteners, keyway-driven engagement elements, elastic straps, or any other suitable configuration.

[0084] Referring further to Figure 17, the cap 350 includes an inner surface 358 configured to engage in a sealable manner with the end of each nozzle 242. When the surface 358 engages with the nozzle 242, the nozzle outlet opening 246 is closed, thereby sealing the nozzle channel 244 and separating any preparation in the apparatus 100 from the ambient air.

[0085] Referring next to Figures 18 and 19, another embodiment of the compound delivery device 100 is shown, in which the device selectively separates internal components from ambient air to reduce and / or eliminate clogging. In one embodiment, a plurality of shutters 370 are arranged within the distribution channel 226 of the manifold 210. The shutters 370 are configured to selectively reciprocate between an open position (see Figure 18) and a closed position (see Figure 19).

[0086] While the apparatus 100 is in operation, the shutter 370 is in the open position, allowing the preparation or mixture of preparations to pass through the distribution channel 226 of the manifold 210 and be distributed through the nozzle 242 of the head unit 240. When the apparatus 100 is not in use, the shutter 370 is in the closed position. In the closed position, the shutter 370 blocks the channel 244 of each nozzle 242, thereby separating the manifold and all preparations within the manifold from the ambient air. In other words, the shutter 370 seals the "upstream" of the nozzles 242 within the apparatus 100, i.e., the preparations distributed from the manifold 210 to the preparation containers 308 and 314.

[0087] In some embodiments, the shutter 370 reciprocates along a linear path between an open position and a closed position. In other embodiments, the shutter 370 is a rotary shutter. In yet another embodiment, the shutter is electronically actuated or manually activated. It should be understood that any suitable shutter capable of selectively blocking and blocking the nozzle 242 may be used.

[0088] Other anti-clogging systems prevent or eliminate clogging by flushing out residual formulations and / or existing clogging from the components of the instrument 100. When the user finishes using the instrument, a cleaning fluid is sent through the system along the formulation pathway, cleaning the components of the instrument 100 so that the formulations are removed from the components until the next use.

[0089] Figure 20 shows an embodiment of a cleaning assembly 400 used in conjunction with the embodiments of the instrument 100 shown in Figures 1 to 14. The cleaning assembly 400 is manufactured and configured to be sized to be mountable on the delivery assembly 110 in place of the consumable assembly 300. In this context, embodiments of the cleaning assembly 400 may include the housing 302 of the consumable assembly 300 or a similarly formed housing.

[0090] A cleaning container 402 is disposed within a cavity 306 of the housing 302. In some embodiments, the cleaning container includes a housing 404 filled with cleaning fluid 406. Similar to the preparation containers 308 and 314 of the consumable assembly 300, embodiments of the cleaning container 402 may include a sealing member 328 and an end fitting 322 having an opening 324, the opening 324 configured to interact sealably with the coupler 140 of the delivery assembly 110. More specifically, the opening 324 is fabricated and positioned to accommodate the engaging element 144 of the coupler 140 in a sealing engagement, thereby allowing the pump 190 to draw cleaning fluid 406 from the cleaning container 402 and discharge the cleaning fluid through the manifold 210 and head section 240. By dispensing the cleaning fluid 406 along the same path as the formulations 310 and 316, any residual formulation is removed from the components of the delivery assembly, which could otherwise clog the components of the delivery assembly 110. Before the next use, the user removes the cleaning assembly 400 and installs the removed consumable assembly 300 or replacement consumable assembly.

[0091] In some embodiments, the cleaning fluid 406 may include water, clarifying shampoo, acetone, and / or other suitable fluids or combinations of fluids. In other embodiments, the cleaning container 402 may have a separate container filled with a separate cleaning fluid suitable for cleaning the formulations 310 and 316 contained in the corresponding formulation containers 308 and 314 of the consumable assembly 300.

[0092] Figures 21 to 23 show an embodiment of a docking station 500 suitable for cleaning the embodiment of the apparatus 100 shown in Figures 1 to 14. The docking station 500 includes a mount 530 coupled to a base 510 so as to be rotatable about an axis 542. The mount 530 is configured to reciprocate between a vertical position (see Figures 21 and 22) and a horizontal position (see Figure 23) about the axis 542. To clean the components of the delivery assembly 110, i.e., to remove the formulations 310 and 316 from the delivery assembly, the delivery assembly is mounted on the mount 530, and then the mount 530 is rotated to the horizontal position. With the delivery assembly 110 in the horizontal position, the pump 190 draws in cleaning fluid 516 from the base 510 and discharges the cleaning fluid 516 through the head 240. The discharged cleaning fluid 516 is collected in the base 510.

[0093] The mount 530 includes an insertion portion 534 that is manufactured and configured to be sized to fit within the cavity 118 of the delivery assembly 110. In some embodiments, the insertion portion 534 has a shape similar to the housing 302 of the consumable assembly 300. One or more fittings 536 each have an opening 538 and are positioned on the end of the insertion portion 534. Each fitting 536 is configured such that the opening 538 receives one of the engaging members 144 of the delivery assembly 110, thereby establishing sealing fluid communication between the engaging member and the fitting 536.

[0094] The base 510 has a housing 512 in which a storage tank 544 is disposed. The storage tank 544 is filled at least partially with a cleaning fluid 516. A valve 520 provides unidirectional fluid communication between the lower part of the storage tank 544 and the first end of the flexible pipe 540. The valve 520 allows the fluid to flow from the storage tank 544 to the pipe 540, while preventing the fluid from flowing back from the pipe to the storage tank. As a result, the pipe 540 remains ready even when the delivery assembly 110 is removed, when the mount 530 is in a vertical position.

[0095] The second end of the pipe 540 is in fluid communication with one or more fittings 536. In embodiments having multiple fittings 536, a manifold may be included to distribute the fluid from the pipe 540 to the fittings. In some embodiments, multiple pipes are included, each pipe providing fluid communication between the storage tank 544 and one or more of the fittings 536.

[0096] A recess 514 is formed at the top of the base 510. The recess 514 is manufactured and positioned such that, when the delivery assembly 110 is attached to the mount 530 and the mount is in a horizontal position, the head portion 240 of the delivery assembly is positioned above the recess. In some embodiments, a portion of the head portion 240 extends into the recess 514. A channel 518 connects the recess 514 to the storage tank 544. In some embodiments, the channel 518 is inclined downward toward the storage tank 544, thereby allowing fluid in the recess 514 to flow into the storage tank under gravity.

[0097] To remove residual formulation from the delivery assembly 110, the user first removes the consumable assembly 300 from the instrument 100. The delivery assembly 110 is mounted to the mount 530 while the mount 530 is in a vertical position. That is, the delivery assembly 110 is positioned above the insertion portion 534, thereby positioning the insertion portion to be received by the cavity 118 of the delivery system (see Figure 21). The delivery system 110 is then moved downward, thereby moving the insertion portion 534 into the cavity 118 until the engaging element 144 engages with the corresponding fitting 536 of the mount 530 and the sealing fluid (see Figure 22). Once the delivery assembly 110 is mounted to the mount 530, the pump 190 can draw the cleaning fluid 516 from the storage tank 544 through the valve 520 and the pipe 540.

[0098] The mount 530 and the delivery assembly 110 attached thereto are rotated to a horizontal position around the axis 542 (see Figure 23). Once the mount 530 and the delivery assembly are in this position, the cleaning cycle is initiated. During the cleaning cycle, the pump 190 draws cleaning fluid 516 from the storage tank 544 into the coupler 140 through the valve 520 and pipe 540. The pump 190 discharges the cleaning fluid 516 into the manifold 210 and out through the head section 240. The cleaning fluid 516 discharged from the head section 240 is collected in the recess 514 and returns to the storage tank 544 through the channel 518. By discharging the cleaning fluid 516 along the same path as the formulations 310 and 316, residual formulations are removed from the components of the delivery assembly, which could otherwise clog the components of the delivery assembly 110.

[0099] Once the cleaning cycle is complete, the mount 530 can be rotated back to a vertical position to remove the delivery assembly 110. In some embodiments, after the cleaning cycle is complete, the delivery assembly can be stored on a docking station. In some embodiments, the docking station includes a power supply (not shown) that charges the delivery assembly when it is attached to the docking station.

[0100] Figure 24 shows another embodiment of docking station 600, similar to docking station 500 shown in Figures 21 to 23. For simplicity of explanation, docking station 600 will be described under the understanding that its components are similar to the corresponding components of docking station 500 unless otherwise specified. In this regard, components of docking station 600 indicated by reference noun 6XX correspond to components of docking station 500 indicated by reference noun 5XX unless otherwise specified. For example, recess 614 and valve 620 of docking station 600 correspond to recess 514 and valve 520 of docking station 500.

[0101] Similar to docking station 500, the base 612 of docking station 600 includes a storage tank 616 filled with cleaning fluid 644. During the cleaning cycle, the cleaning fluid 644 from storage tank 616 is drawn into delivery assembly 110 by a pump and discharged from head unit 240 into recess 614. Unlike docking station 500, recess 614 is connected to collection tank 618 by channel 620. The cleaning fluid discharged from head unit 240 flows from recess 614 through channel 620 into collection tank 618. The collected fluid 646 remains in the collection tank until the user empties the collection tank 618. Thus, instead of reusing the cleaning fluid as docking station 500, docking station 600 separates used and unused cleaning fluid to prevent reuse.

[0102] The modes for carrying out the invention described in the preceding paragraphs in relation to the accompanying drawings, where similar numbers refer to similar elements, are intended to illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to show only one embodiment. Each embodiment described in the present disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be construed as being preferable or advantageous to other embodiments. The illustrative examples given herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the exact forms disclosed. Similarly, any step described herein may be interchangeable with other steps or in combination with other steps to achieve the same or substantially similar results.

[0103] The above description includes specific details to enable a full understanding of the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein can be practiced without embodying all of the specific details. In some examples, well-known process steps are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the various aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, it goes without saying that embodiments of this disclosure may use any combination of the features described herein.

[0104] This application may include references to directions such as “forward,” “rear,” “front,” “rear,” “upward,” “downward,” “right side,” “left side,” “side,” “central,” “inside,” “outside,” “extended,” “forward,” “recessed,” “proximal,” “distal,” and “center.” These references and other similar references in this application are merely to aid in the description and understanding of specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this disclosure to these directions or positions.

[0105] Furthermore, this application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, such quantities and numbers are not considered limiting and are considered examples of quantities or numbers that may be relevant to this application. Similarly, in this context, this application may use the term “plural” to refer to quantities or numbers. In this regard, the term “plural” means any number that is two or more, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc. Terms such as “about” and “approximately” mean plus or minus 5% of the expressed value.

[0106] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of this disclosure have been described above. However, the aspects of this disclosure intended to be protected should not be construed as being limited to any particular embodiment disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative, not restrictive. It goes without saying that variations and modifications may be created by others and equivalents may be adopted without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Thus, it is explicitly intended that all such variations, modifications, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the claimed disclosure. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 100 Preparation delivery devices, apparatus, and preparation delivery apparatus 110 Delivery Assembly 112 (Delivery assembly) housing 114 First containment section 116 Second containment section 118 (Housing) Cavity 120 control buttons 122 Power indicator light 124, 150 ports 126 Retraction Mechanism 140 couplers 142 (Coupler) base 144 (coupler) engagement element 146 Tip 148 (channels of engaging elements) 152 Openings, ventilation openings 154 Sealing elements, sealing members 170 First preparation tube 172 Second preparation tube 174 First discharge tube 176 Second discharge tube 190 pumps, peristaltic pumps 210 Manifold 212 Manifold, Manifold Housing 214 First Inlet Port, First Manifold Inlet Port 216 Second Inlet Port, Second Manifold Inlet Port 218 First mixing chamber 220 Static Mixer 222 Second mixing chamber 224 Second static mixer 226 distribution channels 240 Head section 242 Long and slender nozzle 244 channels 246 Exit opening 248 Standoff protrusions 250 Engagement mechanism 300 Consumable Assembly 302 Long and narrow housing 304 Release button 306 Cavity (of the elongated housing) 308 Container for compounding, first container for compounding 310 Formulations, coloring formulations, first formulation components 312 Gas 314 Mixture container, second mixture container 316 Formulations, coloring formulations, second formulation components 320 packs 322 End Fittings 324 (End fitting) opening 326 (End fitting) fastener 328 Sealing member 330 (Opening of sealing member) 332 Membrane 350 caps 352 Side wall 354 Closeout 356 Reversal stop 358 Inner surface, outer surface 370 shutters 400 Cleaning Assembly 402 Washing container 404 Housing 406 Cleaning fluid 500 Docking Stations 510 base 512 Housing 514 recess 516 Cleaning fluid 518 channels 520 valves 530 mount 534 Insertion section 536 Fitting 538 Opening 540 Flexible pipes, tubes 542 axes 544 Storage Tanks 600 Docking Stations 612 base 614 recess 616 Storage Tanks 618 Collection Tanks 620 valves, channel 644 Cleaning fluid 646 collected fluids

Claims

1. A container having an opening and configured to hold a certain amount of preparation, A preparation delivery device comprising a delivery device having a pump configured to draw a preparation from the container and discharge the fluid through a manifold to a head portion including at least one nozzle and a plurality of standoff projections, wherein the delivery device further includes a occluding member configured to move selectively between an occluded position and an open position, the occluding member separating the preparation in the delivery device from ambient air when the occluding member is in the occluded position, and allowing the pump to discharge the preparation from the nozzle when the occluding member is in the open position.

2. The occlusion mechanism defines a cap that can be selectively attached to the standoff projection, and the cap is removably coupled to the head portion, and the inner surface of the cap closes the outlet of each of the plurality of nozzles when the cap is coupled to the head portion, as described in claim 1.

3. The preparation delivery device according to claim 2, wherein each standoff projection has an engagement mechanism formed on its end, and each engagement mechanism engages with a corresponding stopper formed on the cap when the cap is coupled to the head portion.

4. The preparation delivery device according to claim 1, wherein the closing member includes a shutter that is closed in the closed position and opened in the open position.

5. The preparation delivery device according to claim 4, wherein when the shutter is in the closed position, the shutter prevents the discharge of the preparation from the manifold to the head portion.

6. The preparation delivery device according to claim 4, wherein the shutter moves along a linear path and reciprocates between the open position and the closed position.

7. The preparation delivery device according to claim 5, wherein the shutter is at least partially disposed within the distribution channel of the manifold.

8. The preparation delivery device according to claim 4, wherein the shutter is manually movable between the open position and the closed position.

9. A docking station for a compound delivery device, the device comprising an elongated engaging element having a channel for fluid communication with a pump, the pump being configured to draw fluid through the engaging element and discharge the fluid into a manifold that provides the fluid to at least one nozzle, the docking station comprising A docking station comprising a mount configured to sealably receive the engaging member, thereby allowing the pump to fluidly engage with a storage tank filled with cleaning fluid, the pump configured to draw cleaning fluid from the storage tank, discharge the cleaning fluid into the manifold, and discharge it through at least one nozzle.

10. The docking station according to claim 9, wherein the engaging element is disposed within a cavity of the delivery assembly, and the mount is sized and configured to be received within the cavity.

11. The docking station according to claim 9, wherein the mount is rotatably coupled to the base.

12. The docking station according to claim 11, wherein the storage tank is disposed within the base, and when the engaging member is received by the mount, fluid communication is established between the engaging member and the storage tank through the pipe.

13. The docking station according to claim 12, wherein a valve is in fluid communication with the pipe and restricts the flow of the fluid from the pipe toward the storage tank.

14. The docking station according to claim 11, wherein the base further includes a recess configured to receive fluid discharged from the at least one nozzle.

15. The docking station according to claim 11, wherein the mount is configured to reciprocate between a vertical position and a horizontal position, and the at least one nozzle extends at least partially into the recess when the mount is received in the cavity of the delivery assembly and is in the horizontal position.

16. The docking station according to claim 14, wherein the recess is in fluid communication with the storage tank, thereby returning the fluid discharged from the at least one nozzle to the storage tank.

17. The docking station according to claim 14, wherein the recess is in fluid communication with a collection tank disposed within the base, and thereby the fluid discharged from the at least one nozzle is collected by the collection tank.

18. The docking station according to claim 9, further comprising a power supply configured to charge the aforementioned delivery device.

Images