Fluid cartridge for multi-component sprayers

Abstract

A fluid cartridge for a multi-component sprayer is configured to receive a first component material and a second component material and purge air from the sprayer and provide the first component material and second component material and purge air to a mixing chamber for spraying. The fluid cartridge includes a cartridge body, a material flow path extending from a second end to a cartridge orifice, and a purge path extending from the second end to the cartridge orifice. A fluid check is disposed in the material flow path and purge path to prevent backflow out of the fluid cartridge. A side seal is disposed in the material path and is preloaded to extend into the cartridge orifice and engage a mixing chamber within the cartridge orifice.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Graco Minnesota, Inc., with application number 201980070370.3, entitled "Fluid Box for Multi-Component Sprayer", filed on April 23, 2021, and filed in China (international application date: October 25, 2019, international application number: PCT / US2019 / 058095).

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 751,148, filed October 26, 2018, entitled “REPLACEABLE HEAD FOR PLURAL COMPONENT SPRAYER (GUN),” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 800,659, filed February 4, 2019, entitled “MIXING CARTRIDGE AND MIXING CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLY FOR PLURAL COMPONENT SPRAYER,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure relates to sprayers. More particularly, this disclosure relates to multi-part spray guns. Background Technology

[0005] Multi-component sprayers receive and combine multiple components to form a multi-component material. For example, some multi-component sprayers receive a catalyst (such as isocyanate) and a resin, which combine to form a spray foam. The spray foam insulation can be applied to a substrate to provide insulation. The spray gun is triggered to open a path out of the gun and spray the multi-component material. The components may cross-over into the paths of other components, potentially causing curing within the gun. Repairing a multi-component sprayer requires disassembling the entire fluid head for maintenance and repair, and addressing any issues that may cause spraying failures. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a mixing chamber is configured to be disposed in a cartridge orifice in a spray gun to receive a first component fluid from a first fluid channel in the spray gun and a second component fluid from a second fluid channel in the spray gun. A first side seal is disposed in the first fluid channel to seal the mixing chamber, and a second side seal is disposed in the second fluid channel to seal the mixing chamber. The mixing chamber includes a chamber body extending between a first end and a second end and elongating along a body axis, the chamber body including a flat first lateral side and a flat second lateral side. The mixing chamber further includes: a first inlet hole extending into the flat first lateral side and extending to a mixing orifice, the mixing orifice extending to a spray nozzle, the first inlet hole being configured to receive the first component fluid from the first fluid channel; a second inlet hole extending into the flat second lateral side and extending to the mixing orifice, the second inlet hole being configured to receive the second component fluid from the second fluid channel; and a beveled feature disposed near the first end. The inclined surface feature is configured to contact the first side seal and the second side seal respectively when the mixing chamber moves through the box hole in the first direction, and push the first side seal and the second side seal away from the main body axis to increase the gap between the first side seal and the second side seal, such that the first side seal engages the first lateral side and the second side seal engages the second lateral side.

[0007] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method of assembling in a multi-part spray gun includes: attaching a mixing chamber to an actuator of the multi-part spray gun; causing a fluid cartridge to travel over the mixing chamber in a first direction such that the mixing chamber enters a rear opening of a cartridge orifice through the fluid cartridge; engaging a first sealing member and a second sealing member disposed in the fluid cartridge with a beveled feature of the mixing chamber, the beveled feature being a first portion of the mixing chamber for contacting the first and second sealing members, wherein the first and second sealing members are preloaded such that a spring force at least partially biases the first and second sealing members into the cartridge orifice; pushing the first and second sealing members away from the cavity axis through the beveled feature to widen the gap between the first and second sealing members; and causing the first sealing member to travel from the beveled feature to a flat first lateral side of the mixing chamber, and causing the second sealing member to travel to a flat second lateral side of the mixing chamber.

[0008] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a fluid cartridge for a multi-component sprayer includes: a cartridge body having a first end and a second end; a cartridge aperture extending axially through the body between the first end and the second end; a first material flow path extending from the second end to the cartridge aperture and a second material flow path extending from the second end to the cartridge aperture; a first fluid check valve disposed near a first inlet in the first material path and a second fluid check valve disposed near a second inlet in the second material path, the first and second fluid check valves being configured to prevent objects from entering the body. Material is returned through the first inlet and the second inlet; a first side seal is disposed near the box orifice in the first material path, the first side seal comprising a first sealing member and a first side spring, the first side spring at least partially biasing the first sealing member into the box orifice, such that the first side seal is preloaded; and a second side seal is disposed near the box orifice in the second material path, the second side seal comprising a second sealing member and a second side spring, the second side spring at least partially biasing the second sealing member into the box orifice, such that the second side seal is preloaded.

[0009] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a fluid cartridge for use in the multi-component sprayer is configured to receive a first component material and a second component material from the multi-component sprayer and to receive purge air from the multi-component sprayer. The fluid cartridge includes: a cartridge body defining a cartridge orifice; a first sealing housing mounted to the cartridge body, the first sealing housing including a first post extending rearward from the first sealing housing and configured to be received in a first material port to receive the first component material from the first material port; a second sealing housing mounted to the cartridge body, the second sealing housing including a second post extending rearward from the second sealing housing and configured to be received in a second material port to receive the second component material from the second material port; a third post extending rearward from the cartridge body and configured to be received in a purge port to receive purge air from the purge port; a first fluid check valve disposed in a first material path extending from the first post through the first sealing housing to the cartridge orifice; and a fluid check valve disposed in a second material path extending from the first post through the first sealing housing to the cartridge orifice. A second fluid check valve in the material path, the second material path extending from the second post through the second sealing housing to the box orifice; a third fluid check valve in the purge path, the purge path extending from the third post through the box body to the purge chamber in the box orifice; a first side seal in the first material path near the box orifice, the first side seal including a first sealing member and a first side spring, the first side spring at least partially biasing the first sealing member into the box orifice, such that the first side seal is preloaded; and a second side seal in the second material path near the box orifice, the second side seal including a second sealing member and a second side spring, the second side spring at least partially biasing the second sealing member into the box orifice, such that the second side seal is preloaded. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1A This is an isometric side view of a multi-component sprayer.

[0011] Figure 1B This is an exploded view of a multi-component sprayer.

[0012] Figure 2A It is along Figure 1A The cross-sectional view taken from line 2-2 in the diagram.

[0013] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A magnified view of detail Z in the image.

[0014] Figure 3A It is along Figure 1A The cross-sectional view taken from line 3-3 in the diagram.

[0015] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A magnified view of detail Y in the image.

[0016] Figure 4A This is the front isometric side view of the head assembly.

[0017] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A The image shows a front elevation view of the mounting head.

[0018] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A The image shows a bottom view of the mounting head.

[0019] Figure 5A This is the first isometric side view of the fluid cell.

[0020] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A The fluid cell is shown in the second isometric side view.

[0021] Figure 6A This is an isometric side view of the mixing chamber.

[0022] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A The first plan view of the mixing chamber is shown in the figure.

[0023] Figure 6C yes Figure 6A The first side elevation view of the mixing cavity is shown in the figure.

[0024] Figure 6D yes Figure 6A The second side elevation view of the mixing cavity is shown in the figure.

[0025] Figure 6E yes Figure 6A The second plan view of the mixing cavity is shown in the figure.

[0026] Figure 7A This is an isometric side view of the mixing chamber.

[0027] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A The plan view of the mixing chamber is shown in the figure.

[0028] Figure 8A This is an isometric side view of the mixing chamber.

[0029] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A The image shows a front elevation view of the mixing cavity.

[0030] Figure 9A This is the first isometric side view of the mixing chamber.

[0031] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A The second isometric side view of the mixing cavity is shown in the figure.

[0032] Figure 10A This is an isometric side view of the mixing chamber assembly.

[0033] Figure 10B It is along Figure 10A The cross-sectional view taken from line BB in the diagram.

[0034] Figure 11 This is a partially exploded isometric side view of a multi-part sprayer. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Figure 1A This is an isometric side view of the multi-component sprayer 10. Figure 1B This is an exploded view of the multi-component sprayer 10. Figure 1A and Figure 1B They will be discussed together. The multi-part sprayer 10 includes a handle 12, a trigger 14, and an actuator 16. Figure 1B ), Install head 18, fluid box 20 ( Figure 1B ), mixing chamber assembly 22, retaining cap 24, cap seal 26 ( Figure 1B ), air cap 28, and manifold 30. Actuator 16 includes tab locking portion 32 ( Figure 1B Mounting head 18 includes center hole 34. Figure 1B Material ports 36a and 36b Figure 1B ); cavity wall 38 ( Figure 1B ); head connector 40; receiving part 42; and pin 44 ( Figure 1B The receiving section 42 defines the head cavity 46. Figure 1B ) and includes slots 48a, 48b ( Figure 1B The fluid cartridge 20 includes a first end 50 (). Figure 1B ), second end 52 ( Figure 1B ), Box hole 54 ( Figure 1B ), protrusions 56a, 56b Figure 1B ), fluid columns 58a, 58b ( Figure 1B (Only fluid columns 58a and 58b are shown.) Figure 1B One of them), purge column 60 ( Figure 1B ), and central extension 62 ( Figure 1B The mixing chamber assembly 22 includes a mixing chamber 64. Figure 1B ) and cavity connector 66 ( Figure 1B The main body 68 of the mixing chamber 64 is shown. Figure 1B ), head 70 ( Figure 1B), and spray nozzle 72. Cavity connector 66 includes locking tab 74 ( Figure 1B The retaining cap 24 includes a cap hole 76. The air cap 28 includes an opening 78.

[0036] A multi-component sprayer 10 is configured to receive and mix multi-component materials to form a multi-component material applied to a surface. The component materials are driven to the multi-component sprayer 10 by an upstream pressure source (such as a pump). The upstream pressure drives the component materials and the resulting multi-component material through the multi-component sprayer 10, thereby inducing spraying. For example, the multi-component sprayer 10 may receive a first component material (such as a resin) and a second component material (such as a catalyst (e.g., isocyanate)), the first component material being combined with the second component material to form a spray foam. The spray foam is discharged from the multi-component sprayer 10 in a spray manner and applied to the surface.

[0037] Handle 12 is configured to be gripped by a user's hand. Trigger 14 is pivotally mounted on the body of the multi-part sprayer 10. Trigger 14 can be actuated by the hand gripping handle 12. Trigger 14 controls spraying via the multi-part sprayer 10. Actuator 16 is disposed in a cavity within the multi-part sprayer 10. A tab locking portion 32 is formed on actuator 16 and secures mixing chamber assembly 22 to actuator 16. Trigger 14 is configured to cause displacement of actuator 16, which in turn displaces mixing chamber assembly 22 to control spraying via the multi-part sprayer 10. For example, actuator 16 may comprise a pneumatic piston disposed within the multi-part sprayer 10. In such an example, trigger 14 controls the flow rate of compressed air reaching the pneumatic piston to control the displacement of the pneumatic piston.

[0038] Manifold 30 is attached to mounting head 18. Manifold 30 is configured to receive fluid lines (not shown) supplying a first component material and a second component material to the multi-component sprayer 10. Manifold 30 supplies the first component material and the second component material to mounting head 18. Manifold 30 may include an internal valve that allows the user to shut off the flow through manifold 30 during assembly and disassembly of the multi-component sprayer 10.

[0039] Mounting head 18 is mounted to multi-part sprayer 10. More specifically, head connector 40 of mounting head 18 secures mounting head 18 to multi-part sprayer 10. In the example shown, head connector 40 and multi-part sprayer 10 include interface threads. Head connector 40 is rotatable relative to mounting head 18 to be threaded onto multi-part sprayer 10. However, it should be understood that mounting head 18 can be attached to multi-part sprayer 10 in any desired manner. Central bore 34 extends axially through mounting head 18 along axis AA. Material ports 36a, 36b are formed in mounting head 18 and extend into cavity wall 38. Material ports 36a, 36b provide outlet ports through which first component material and second component material exit mounting head 18.

[0040] The receiving portion 42 extends from the body of the mounting head 18 on the side opposite to the head connector 40. A cavity wall 38 defines the base of the head cavity 46. Slots 48a, 48b extend axially into the receiving portion 42 toward the body of the mounting head 18. As shown, slots 48a, 48b are located on opposite lateral sides of the receiving portion 42. Slots 48a, 48b can be offset by approximately 180 degrees. However, it should be understood that slots 48a, 48b can be located at any desired location on the receiving portion 42. Furthermore, slots 48a, 48b can be offset to any desired degree or angle. In some examples, the mounting head 18 includes only a single slot 48a, 48b. In other examples, the mounting head 18 includes more than two slots 48a, 48b, such as three, four, or more slots 48a, 48b. Slots 48a and 48b provide error prevention by preventing installations that cannot mate with slots 48a and 48b for installation in any fluid cartridge 20 in the head cavity 46.

[0041] Pins 44 are positioned at the closed ends of the slots 48a, 48b near the body of the mounting head 18. Pins 44 are formed of a resilient material (such as hardened steel) and provide a support against which a user can brace a tool to facilitate removal of the fluid cartridge 20 from the mounting head 18. For example, a user can use a lever arm (such as a screwdriver) braced against one of the pins 44 to pry the fluid cartridge 20 out of the mounting head 18. Pins 44 prevent the lever from damaging the mounting head 18, which may be made of a less resilient material (such as plastic).

[0042] A fluid cartridge 20 is mounted within the head cavity 46 of the mounting head 18. A receiving portion 42 extends around the fluid cartridge 20. Protrusions 56a and 56b extend into slots 48a and 48b, respectively. The protrusions 56a and 56b, interface-connected with the slots 48a and 48b, prevent undesirable rotation of the fluid cartridge 20 relative to the mounting head 18. A cartridge hole 54 extends through the fluid cartridge 20 and is positioned on axis AA. Fluid columns 58a and 58b protrude from the second end 52 of the fluid cartridge 20. The fluid columns 58a and 58b extend into material ports 36a and 36b to form a fluid connection between the mounting head 18 and the fluid cartridge 20. The fluid columns 58a and 58b receive a first component material and a second component material from the mounting head 18. A purge column 60 protrudes from the second end 52. The purge column 60 extends into a purge air port (such as purge port 136) formed in the cavity wall 38 of the mounting head 18. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown in the diagram, the purge column 60 receives purge air from the mounting head 18.

[0043] Fluid cartridge 20 consolidates approximately 15 parts of an existing multi-part head into a single cartridge. This results in faster head replacement compared to existing multi-part heads used for applying binary compounds (e.g., epoxy resin), which require periodic cleaning or replacement at the point where the two parts meet for operation. In many embodiments, the metal and / or plastic housings for A (isoprostol) and B (resin) include side seals, side O-rings, springs, and check valves designed for easy removal and replacement to minimize downtime. Fluid cartridge 20 can be disposable to minimize maintenance time and facilitate preventative maintenance.

[0044] The mixing chamber assembly 22 extends through the central hole 34 and the housing hole 54 and is movable along axis AA. The mixing chamber assembly 22 is movable between a spraying state and a purging state. In the spraying state, the mixing chamber 64 receives the first component material and the second component material and sprays the resulting multi-component material through the spraying orifice 72. In the purging state, the mixing chamber 64 receives purging air and sprays the purging air through the spraying orifice 72. A cavity connector 66 is mounted to the mixing chamber 64 to form the mixing chamber assembly 22.

[0045] The mixing chamber assembly 22 is connected to the actuator 16 such that the actuator 16 drives the mixing chamber assembly 22 between the spraying state and the purging state. A locking tab 74 protrudes from the end of the cavity connector 66 opposite to the mixing chamber 64. The locking tab 74 forms a mounting feature of the mixing chamber assembly 22. The locking tab 74 extends into a tab locking portion 32, which locks the locking tab 74 to prevent axial displacement relative to the actuator 16. Thus, the actuator 16 can drive the mixing chamber assembly 22 along axis AA between the spraying state and the purging state. The tab locking portion 32 may be formed on the actuator 16 or on another component attached to the actuator 16. The interface connection between the mixing chamber assembly 22 and the actuator 16 facilitates simple and quick assembly and disassembly of the multi-part sprayer 10. The mixing chamber assembly 22 is attached to the actuator 16 by aligning the locking tab 74 with the opening of the tab locking portion 32. The locking tab 74 is inserted into the tab locking portion 32 through the opening and rotated such that the locking flange of the tab locking portion 32 covers the locking tab 74 and axially secures the locking tab 74 within the tab locking portion 32. The mixing chamber assembly 22 can be removed by reversing the torsional motion and pulling it axially away from the tab locking portion 32. While the mixing chamber assembly 22 is described as being mounted to the actuator 16 via the locking tab 74 and the tab locking portion 32, it should be understood that the mixing chamber assembly 22 can be mounted to the actuator 16 through any suitable connection interface.

[0046] The mixing chamber 64 receives a first component material and a second component material and ejects the multi-component material from the spray nozzle 72. A head 70 extends from the end of the body 68 opposite to the cavity connector 66. The spray nozzle 72 is formed in said end of the head 70. An air cap 28 is configured to be mounted to the head 70. In the example shown, the air cap 28 and the head 70 may include interface threads to secure the air cap 28 to the mixing chamber 64. However, it should be understood that the air cap 28 and the mixing chamber 64 can be connected in any desired manner. With the air cap 28 secured to the mixing chamber 64, the spray nozzle 72 is positioned at the opening 78 of the air cap 28. Air flows through the opening (not shown) in the air cap to help clean the mixing chamber 64.

[0047] The retaining cap 24 is connected to the receiving portion 42 and secures the fluid cartridge 20 within the head cavity 46. In the example shown, the retaining cap 24 includes internal threads configured to interface with external threads on the receiving portion 42. However, it should be understood that the retaining cap 24 can be secured to the receiving portion 42 in any desired manner. The retaining cap 24 includes a cap bore 76 disposed on axis AA. A portion of the mixing chamber 64 extends through the cap bore 76. A cap seal 26 is disposed within the retaining cap 24 around the cap bore 76. When the mixing chamber 64 is in the spraying state to ensure clean air flow through the air cap 28, the cap seal 26 interfacely connects with the air cap 28.

[0048] The multi-part sprayer 10 can be easily assembled and disassembled. This reduces downtime and increases the efficiency of the spraying operation. To assemble the multi-part sprayer 10, the locking tab 74 is aligned with the opening in the tab locking portion 32 and inserted into it. The mixing chamber assembly 22 is rotated, thereby securing the locking tab 74 in the tab locking portion 32. The mounting head 18 travels over the mixing chamber assembly 22 such that the mixing chamber assembly 22 extends through the central hole 34. The mounting head 18 is mounted to the multi-part sprayer 10 via the head connector 40. The manifold 30 is attached to the mounting head 18. The fluid cartridge 20 is inserted into the head cavity 46 such that protrusions 56a, 56b are positioned in slots 48a, 48b. Fluid columns 58a, 58b extend into the material ports 36a, 36b. The central extension 62 extends into the central aperture 34, and the mixing chamber assembly 22 passes through the cartridge aperture 54. A purge column 60 extends into the purge port. A retaining cap 24 is mounted on the receiving portion 42 to secure the fluid cartridge 20 within the head cavity 46. An air cap 28 is attached to the head 70 of the mixing chamber 64. The multi-part sprayer 10 is thus ready to begin spraying.

[0049] The multi-part sprayer 10 allows for the removal and replacement of parts. The air cap 28 detaches from the head 70, and the retaining cap 24 is removed from the receiving portion 42. The fluid cartridge 20 can then be pulled axially away from the mounting head 18 and pulled out of the head cavity 46. A lever arm (such as a screwdriver) can be placed between the pin 44 and a portion of the fluid cartridge 20 (such as protrusions 56a, 56b), and the lever arm can be abutted against the pin 44 to aid in the removal of the fluid cartridge 20 from the head cavity. As discussed above, the fluid cartridge 20 integrates multiple replacement parts into a single module. A new fluid cartridge 20 can be installed into the mounting head 18. The multi-part sprayer 10 can be reassembled and resumed operation.

[0050] In some cases, the mixing chamber assembly 22 may also require replacement. The user can remove the mounting head 18 from the multi-part sprayer 10 to expose the mixing chamber assembly 22. The mixing chamber assembly 22 is disassembled by rotating it and then pulling it axially away from the actuator 16, causing the locking tab 74 to disengage from the tab locking portion 32. A new mixing chamber assembly 22 can be installed to the actuator 16, and the multi-part sprayer 10 can be quickly reassembled and restored to operation. The mixing chamber assembly 22 facilitates tool-less replacement of the mixing chamber 64.

[0051] During operation, the first and second component materials enter manifold 30 and flow into mounting head 18. The first component material enters fluid cartridge 20 via a fluid column 58a located in material port 36a, and the second component material enters fluid cartridge 20 via a fluid column 58b located in material port 36b. Mixing chamber 64 is initially in the purge state, thereby preventing the first and second component materials from flowing to spray nozzle 72, as further discussed herein.

[0052] The user triggers trigger 14, which in turn triggers actuator 16, causing mixing chamber 64 to switch to the spraying state. The component materials enter mixing chamber 64 and mix together to form the multi-component material. The multi-component material flows through mixing chamber 64 and is sprayed as a spray through spray orifice 72. The upstream pressure driving the component materials to the multi-component sprayer 10 drives the first and second component materials, as well as the resulting multi-component material, through manifold 30, mounting head 18, fluid cartridge 20, and mixing chamber 64, and exits through spray orifice 72.

[0053] The user releases trigger 14, causing actuator 16 to move, thus actuating the mixing chamber 64 back to the purge state. The mixing chamber 64 is fluidly disconnected from the component material flow path in fluid cartridge 20, thereby stopping the flow of both the first and second component materials into the mixing chamber 64. In the purge state, purge air flows through the mixing chamber 64 and exits through spray nozzle 72 to blow out any remaining material. While the mixing chamber 64 is in the purge state, the purge air can continuously flow through it. The purge air prevents solidification within the mixing chamber 64, which could compromise its operability.

[0054] The multi-part sprayer 10 offers significant advantages. It can be easily and quickly assembled and disassembled. Rapid assembly reduces downtime due to parts replacement, thereby increasing productivity. The fluid cartridge 20 further facilitates rapid assembly by providing a single module containing multiple seals and other components that previously required separate assembly in situ. The fluid cartridge 20 can be disposable and replaced with a new one to restart the spraying operation. The fluid cartridge 20 provides a single replacement part, which also reduces the number of parts the user needs to track, simplifying operation and providing easier tracking for the user. The mixing chamber assembly 22 is also easy to remove and replace, further reducing downtime and increasing productivity.

[0055] Figure 2A It is along Figure 1A The cross-sectional view of the multi-component sprayer 10 taken from line 2-2 in the figure. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A magnified view of detail Z in the image. Figure 2A and Figure 2B These will be discussed together. Actuator 16, mounting head 18, fluid cartridge 20, mixing chamber assembly 22, retaining cap 24, air cap 28, and manifold 30 are shown. Actuator 16 includes a tab locking portion 32. The mounting head 18 is shown with a central hole 34, material ports 36a and 36b; chamber wall 38; head connector 40; pin 44; slots 48a and 48b; and material channels 80a and 80b. The fluid cartridge 20 is shown with a first end 50, a second end 52, a cartridge hole 54, protrusions 56a and 56b; fluid columns 58a and 58b; a central extension 62; a mixer body 82; sealing housings 84a and 84b; fluid check valves 86a and 86b; side seals 88a and 88b; material channels 90a and 90b; a cartridge cover 92; a purge chamber 94; and retaining members 103a and 103b. Fluid check valves 86a and 86b each include springs 96a and 96b and balls 98a and 98b, respectively. Side seals 88a and 88b each include side springs 100a and 100b and sealing members 102a and 102b, respectively. Sealing members 102a and 102b each include sealing channels 120a and 120b, respectively. The mixing chamber assembly 22 includes a mixing chamber 64 and a chamber connector 66. The mixing chamber 64 is shown with a body 68, a head 70, a spray orifice 72, a tail 104, inlet holes 106a and 106b, and a mixing hole 108. The body 68 includes a first body end 110, a second body end 112, lateral sides 114a and 114b, and inclined surfaces 116a and 116b. The tail 104 includes a pin hole 118. The chamber connector 66 includes a locking tab 74.

[0056] Mounting head 18 is mounted to the body of multi-component sprayer 10. Head connector 40 is rotatably mounted on mounting head 18. Head connector 40 secures mounting head 18 to multi-component sprayer 10. Material channels 80a, 80b extend through mounting head 18 and respectively transfer the first component material and the second component material from manifold 30 to material ports 36a, 36b. Material ports 36a, 36b extend into the cavity wall 38 of mounting head 18. Center hole 34 extends axially through mounting head 18. Slots 48a, 48b are formed in receiving portion 42 of mounting head 18. Figure 1B and Figures 3A to 4B In the slots 48a and 48b, proper alignment of the fluid cartridge 20 is ensured during assembly and rotation of the fluid cartridge 20 relative to the mounting head 18 is prevented, thus helping to hold the fluid cartridge 20 in place during assembly and operation. A pin 44 is provided at the closed end of the slots 48a and 48b.

[0057] The fluid cartridge 20 is fluidly connected to the mounting head 18 and secured within the receiving portion 42. A retaining cap 24 is attached to the mounting head 18 and secures the fluid cartridge 20 within the head cavity 46. Sealing housings 84a and 84b are provided on opposite sides of the mixer body 82. Protrusions 56a and 56b are formed by multiple portions of the sealing housings 84a and 84b. Protrusions 56a and 56b are received in slots 48a and 48b. A cover 92 extends over multiple portions of the sealing housings 84a and 84b and the mixer body 82 to secure the sealing housings 84a and 84b together to form the fluid cartridge 20. In some examples, the cover 92 may form a permanent connection such that removing the fluid cartridge 20 would disrupt the operability of one or more parts forming the fluid cartridge 20. In some examples, fasteners 122 (such as pins or screws) and other alternatives extend through the mixer body 82 and the sealing housings 84a, 84b to connect the mixer body 82 and the sealing housings 84a, 84b together. A cover 92 may cover the opening through which the fasteners 122 extend. When the fluid cartridge 20 is described as being formed from the separate sealing housings 84a, 84b; the mixer body 82; and the cover 92, it should be understood that the fluid cartridge 20 can be formed as a single part. For example, the fluid cartridge 20 may be formed by molding, casting, additive manufacturing, or any other suitable manufacturing process. Additionally, in some examples, the components forming the fluid cartridge 20 may be permanently connected such that disassembly of said components would impair the operability of the fluid cartridge 20.

[0058] Material passages 90a and 90b extend through sealing housings 84a and 84b, respectively. Material passages 90a and 90b provide flow paths for the first and second component materials to flow through the fluid cartridge 20 to the central aperture 34. Fluid check valves 86a and 86b are respectively disposed at the input ends of material passages 90a and 90b. Fluid columns 58a and 58b protrude from the second end 52 of the fluid cartridge 20 and are configured to extend into material ports 36a and 36b, respectively. Fluid check valves 86a and 86b are disposed at the input ends of material passages 90a and 90b, and in the illustrated example are at least partially disposed within fluid columns 58a and 58b. Ball bearings 98a and 98b are disposed within material passages 90a and 90b, and springs 96a and 96b are interfacially connected to the balls 98a and 98b to bias the balls 98a and 98b into a closed position. The seat of each fluid check valve 86a, 86b is formed by a component attached to the fluid columns 58a, 58b. The seat portion can be attached to the fluid columns 58a, 58b in any desired manner, such as press-fit or threaded connection, and other alternatives. The fluid check valves 86a, 86b prevent fluid backflow from the fluid cartridge 20 and into the material channels 80a, 80b of the mounting head 18. In this way, the fluid check valves 86a, 86b ensure that any crossflow cannot enter the mounting head 18 and contaminate it.

[0059] Side seals 88a and 88b are at least partially disposed in material passages 90a and 90b, respectively. Side springs 100a and 100b are disposed in material passages 90a and 90b and bias sealing members 102a and 102b toward axis AA. Sealing members 102a and 102b include flat surfaces for engaging and sealing with flat lateral sides 114a and 114b of mixing chamber 64. Sealing members 102a and 102b supply the component material to inlet holes 106a and 106b. Sealing members 102a and 102b include sealing channels 120a and 120b through which the component material flows. Side seals 88a and 88b are preloaded, meaning that side springs 100a and 100b apply force to sealing members 102a and 102b to bias them into the housing orifice 54 before the mixing chamber assembly 22 is installed. Sealing members 102a and 102b partially protrude from material passages 90a and 90b and enter the housing orifice 54. Retaining members 103a and 103b (such as clips) are positioned near the housing orifice 54 in the material passages 90a and 90b and interfaceally connect with the sealing members 102a and 102b to retain them within the material passages 90a and 90b and limit the extent to which they can protrude into the housing orifice 54. The sealing members 102a and 102b protrude into the housing hole 54 before the mixing chamber assembly 22 is installed to ensure proper engagement and sealing between the sealing members 102a and 102b and the lateral sides 114a and 114b.

[0060] The central extension 62 is formed by a portion of the mixer body 82 extending beyond the second end 52 of the fluid cartridge 20. The central extension 62 extends into the central hole 34 of the mounting head 18. The cartridge hole 54 extends axially through the fluid cartridge 20. A purge chamber 94 is formed in a portion of the cartridge hole 54. The mixing chamber 64 is disposed in the cartridge hole 54 and is movable along the axis AA.

[0061] A mixing chamber assembly 22 is disposed on axis AA. The mixing chamber assembly 22 is attached to actuator 16 for movement along axis AA. The mixing chamber assembly 22 receives the first component material and the second component material. The multi-component material is formed in the mixing chamber assembly 22 and ejected from a spray nozzle 72 formed in the mixing chamber 64. A cavity connector 66 is mounted to the tail 104 by a pin extending through the cavity connector 66 and pin hole 118. However, it should be understood that the cavity connector 66 can be attached to the mixing chamber 64 in any desired manner, such as via an interface thread or other alternatives. A locking tab 74 is disposed at the end of the cavity connector 66 opposite to the mixing chamber 64. The locking tab 74 is received by tab locking portion 32 to secure the mixing chamber assembly 22 to actuator 16.

[0062] The box body 68 extends between a first body end 110 and a second body end 112. A head 70 protrudes from the first body end 110. An air cap 28 is mounted on the head 70 and can be attached to the head 70 in any desired manner. For example, the head 70 and the air cap 28 may include interface threads and other options. A tail 104 extends from the second body end 112. A pin hole 118 protrudes through the tail 104.

[0063] Lateral surfaces 114a and 114b extend between the first body end 110 and the second body end 112. Lateral surfaces 114a and 114b form flat axial surfaces that facilitate sliding engagement between sealing members 102a and 102b and the lateral surfaces 114a and 114b. Inclined surfaces 116a and 116b form a transition between the first end 50 and the second end 52. Inclined surfaces 116a and 116b facilitate the installation of a mixing chamber 64, which is inserted from the second end 52 into the housing hole 54 in direction D1. The inclined surfaces 116a and 116b engage the sealing members 102a and 102b and push them away from the axis AA, thereby widening the gap between the sealing members 102a and 102b and allowing the mixing chamber 64 to travel beneath the sealing members 102a and 102b, such that the sealing members 102a and 102b travel onto and engage with the lateral sides 114a and 114b. The inclined surfaces 116a and 116b form transition features of the mixing chamber 64, which facilitate the installation of the mixing chamber 64 via preloaded side seals 88a and 88b.

[0064] Inlet holes 106a and 106b extend into the lateral sides 114a and 114b, respectively, and pass through the body 68 to reach the mixing hole 108. In some examples, inlet holes 106a and 106b extend radially through the body 68. However, it should be understood that the inlet holes 106a and 106b can be configured in any desired orientation relative to the axis AA in the fluid flow path provided to the mixing hole 108. The mixing hole 108 extends through the mixing chamber 64 between the inlet holes 106a and 106b and the spray orifice 72. The mixing hole 108 receives fluid from the inlet holes 106a and 106b and provides the fluid to the spray orifice 72. The mixing chamber 64 moves along axis AA between a first position associated with the spraying state and a second position associated with the purging state. At the first position, the mixing chamber 64 receives individual component materials from inlet holes 106a, 106b and provides the resulting multi-component material to the spraying orifice 72. At the second position, the mixing chamber receives purging air from inlet holes 106a, 106b and provides the purging air to the spraying orifice 72.

[0065] The mixing chamber assembly 22, mounting head 18, and fluid cartridge 20 can be removed from the multi-part sprayer 10. During assembly, the mixing chamber assembly 22 is mounted to the actuator 16. A locking tab 74 is inserted into the tab locking portion 32 and rotated to secure the locking tab 74 to the actuator 16. The mounting head 18 is axially moved along direction D2 such that the mixing chamber 64 travels through the central hole 34. The head connector 40 is secured to the gun body 68.

[0066] The fluid cartridge 20 is axially moved along direction D2 and positioned onto the mounting head 18. Fluid columns 58a and 58b extend into and are received by material ports 36a and 36b, thereby forming a fluid and mechanical connection between the mounting head 18 and the fluid cartridge 20. A central extension 62 extends into and is received by a central bore 34. Protrusions 56a and 56b are received by slots 48a and 48b, thereby facilitating proper alignment of the fluid cartridge 20 with the mounting head 18 when the fluid cartridge 20 is positioned on the mounting head 18.

[0067] As the fluid cartridge 20 moves along direction D2, the mixing chamber 64 travels through the cartridge aperture 54. Inclined surfaces 116a and 116b are the first portions of the mixing chamber 64 for contact with sealing members 102a and 102b. Inclined surfaces 116a and 116b form inclined transition features that push the sealing members 102a and 102b away from the axis AA, thereby widening the gap between the sealing members 102a and 102b as the mixing chamber 64 travels through the cartridge aperture 54. Lateral surfaces 114a and 114b travel beneath the sealing members 102a and 102b and are sealingly engaged by them. The sealing members 102a and 102b form sliding seals that remain engaged with the lateral surfaces 114a and 114b throughout operation.

[0068] The cover 92 is attached to the mounting head 18 to secure the fluid cartridge 20 in place on the mounting head 18. An air cap 28 is attached to the head 70. A manifold 30 is attached to the mounting head 18. The multi-part sprayer 10 is thus ready for operation. Although the mounting head 18 and fluid cartridge 20 are described as separately formed components, it should be understood that the mounting head 18 and fluid cartridge 20 can be permanently attached or integrally formed, such that the mounting head 18 and fluid cartridge 20 form a removable mounting and mixing assembly.

[0069] The fluid cartridge 20 facilitates quick and easy replacement of fluid sealing components (such as side seals 88a, 88b), thereby reducing downtime during operation. Furthermore, the fluid cartridge 20 consolidates these fluid sealing components into a single assembly, reducing the number of replacement parts to one, further reducing downtime and increasing productivity. To replace the fluid cartridge 20, the user removes the air cap 28 and the cartridge cover 92. The fluid cartridge 20 is axially pulled along direction D1, thereby removing fluid columns 58a, 58b from the material ports 36a, 36b and the central extension 62 from the central hole 34. The fluid cartridge 20 moves along direction D2 through the cartridge hole 54 and is removed from the cartridge hole 54. A new fluid cartridge 20 can then be installed as described above. The multi-part sprayer 10 is ready for spraying.

[0070] If a new mixing chamber 64 is required, the mounting head 18 can be disconnected from the gun body 68 and pulled away from the mixing chamber 64 in direction D1. The manifold 30 can remain connected to the mounting head 18 during disassembly. The mixing chamber assembly 22 is rotated and pulled in direction D1 to remove the locking tab 74 from the tab locking portion 32. A new mixing chamber 64 assembly can be attached to the tab locking portion 32, and the mounting head 18 and fluid cartridge 20 can be installed as described above. In some examples, the pin can be pulled from the pin hole 118, thereby disconnecting the cavity connector 66 from the mixing chamber 64. A new mixing chamber 64 can be attached to the cavity connector 66 to form a new mixing chamber assembly 22. In some examples, the user can replace different mixing chamber assemblies 22 with different spray nozzle structures to provide different spraying patterns. The mixing chamber assembly 22 facilitates the easy removal and replacement of the fluid handling components of the multi-part sprayer 10.

[0071] During operation, actuator 16 is driven in direction D1 to stop the spraying of the multi-component material and in direction D2 to start the spraying of the multi-component material. However, it should be understood that the multi-component sprayer 10 can be configured such that actuator 16 is driven in direction D1 to start spraying and in direction D2 to stop spraying. For example, mixing chamber 64 can be configured such that, when mixing chamber 64 is in the purging state, inlet holes 106a, 106b are provided on the side of sealing members 102a, 102b opposite to spraying orifice 72.

[0072] Actuator 16 and mixing chamber assembly 22 in Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe image is shown as being in the spraying state. Initially, the mixing chamber assembly 22 is in a first position, in which the inlet holes 106a, 106b are moved along direction D1 relative to the sealing members 102a, 102b, such that the inlet holes 106a, 106b are located in front of the sealing members 102a, 102b and fluidly isolated from the material passages 90a, 90b by the sealing members 102a, 102b. In the first position, the inlet holes 106a, 106b are positioned in the purge chamber 94 to receive purge air, as described below regarding... Figure 3A and Figure 3B Further discussion. The purge air flows through inlet holes 106a, 106b and mixing hole 108 and exits through spray nozzle 72. In some examples, the purge air flows continuously to the purge chamber 94 and therefore through the mixing chamber 64 when it is in the purge state. The purge air blows any component material remaining in the mixing chamber 64 out of the mixing chamber 64 through the spray nozzle 72, thereby preventing solidification in the mixing chamber 64 and maintaining the operability of the mixing chamber 64.

[0073] The first component material enters the mounting head 18 and flows through the material passage 80a to the material port 36a. The upstream pressure of the first component material causes the fluid check valve 86a to open and drives the first component material through it. The first component material flows through the material passage 90a and the sealing member 102a and presses firmly against the transverse side 114a. The upstream pressure pushes the sealing member 102a into engagement with the transverse side 114a, thereby reinforcing the seal formed between the sealing member 102a and the transverse side 114a. In the illustrated example, the sealing member 102a forms an annular seal on the transverse side 114a. As the mixing chamber 64 moves, the side seal 88a further wipes the transverse side 114a to prevent any residue of the first component material from remaining on the transverse side 114a, which could solidify on the transverse side 114a and damage the sealing member 102a.

[0074] The second component material enters the mounting head 18 and flows through the material passage 80b to the material port 36b. The upstream pressure of the second component material causes the fluid check valve 86b to open and drives the second component material through it. The second component material flows through the material passage 90b and the sealing member 102a and presses firmly against the transverse side 114b. The upstream pressure further pushes the sealing member 102b into engagement with the transverse side 114b, thereby strengthening the seal formed between the sealing member 102b and the transverse side 114b. In the illustrated example, the sealing member 102b forms an annular seal on the transverse side 114b. As the mixing chamber 64 moves, the side seal 88b wipes the transverse side 114b to prevent any residue of the second component material from remaining on the transverse side 114b, which could solidify on the transverse side 114b and damage the sealing member 102b.

[0075] To initiate spraying, actuator 16 is driven along direction D2. Actuator 16 pulls mixing chamber assembly 22 along direction D2 and enters the spraying state. Inlet holes 106a, 106b travel below sealing members 102a, 102b and are in fluid communication with material passages 90a, 90b. Upstream pressure in material passage 90a drives the first component material through inlet hole 106a to mixing hole 108. Upstream pressure in material passage 90b drives the second component material through inlet hole 106b to mixing hole 108. The first and second component materials combine in mixing hole 108 to form the multi-component material. The multi-component material is sprayed as an aerosol through spray nozzle 72.

[0076] To stop spraying, actuator 16 is driven along direction D2. Actuator 16 pushes mixing chamber assembly 22 into the purging state along direction D1. Inlet holes 106a, 106b travel below sealing members 102a, 102b and disengage from fluid communication with material passages 90a, 90b. The purging air flows through inlet holes 106a, 106b and mixing hole 108 and blows any remaining material in inlet holes 106a, 106b and mixing hole 108 out of spray nozzle 72.

[0077] In some cases, the first or second component material may cross into the opposite material channels 80a, 80b, resulting in solidification at the location. Such cross-flow may occur, for example, when there is an imbalance in the upstream pressure of the first and second component materials. Fluid check valves 86a, 86b prevent such cross-flow from leaving the fluid cartridge 20. Thus, the cross-flow and contaminants are contained within the fluid cartridge 20. Fluid check valves 86a, 86b prevent the mounting head 18 from being contaminated in the event of cross-flow. As discussed above, the fluid cartridge 20 can be easily removed and a new fluid cartridge 20 can be easily installed to restore operation of the multi-part sprayer 10.

[0078] The multi-part sprayer 10 offers significant advantages. The fluid cartridge 20 facilitates quick and easy replacement of the fluid handling components, which can be contaminated by cross-contamination. The fluid cartridge 20 provides a single replacement part, thereby reducing the number of parts and inventory for the user, reducing downtime, and increasing operational efficiency. The mixing chamber 64 is facilitated within the fluid cartridge 20 by pre-loaded side seals 88a, 88b. The mixing chamber assembly 22 can be easily attached to and detached from the actuator 16, thereby facilitating quick replacement, reducing downtime, and increasing operational efficiency.

[0079] Figure 3A It is along Figure 1A The cross-sectional view of the multi-component sprayer 10 taken from line 3-3 in the figure. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A magnified view of detail Y in the image. Figure 3A and Figure 3B These will be discussed together. The multi-part sprayer 10 includes a handle 12; a trigger 14; an actuator 16; a mounting head 18; a fluid box 20; a mixing chamber assembly 22; a retaining cap 24; an air cap 28; a manifold 30; and a control valve 124. Figure 3A ); Air inlet 126 ( Figure 3A ); Air exhaust outlet 128 ( Figure 3A Control paths 130a and 130b Figure 3AThe actuator 16 includes a tab locking portion 32. A central hole 34, head connector 40, cavity wall 38, receiving portion 42, purge hole 134, purge port 136, and fastener hole 138 of the mounting head 18 are shown. The receiving portion 42 defines the head cavity 46. A first end 50, a second end 52, a box hole 54, a purge column 60, a central extension 62, a mixer body 82, a fluid check valve 86c, a box cover 92, a purge cavity 94, a purge path 140, and a locating pin 142 of the fluid box 20 are shown. The fluid check valve 86c includes a spring 96c and a ball 98c. The mixing chamber assembly 22 includes a mixing chamber 64 and a cavity connector 66. A body 68, head 70, spray orifice 72, tail 104, and inlet hole 106 of the mixing chamber 64 are shown. The main body 68 includes a first main body end 110, a second main body end 112, and a slot 144. The tail portion 104 includes a pin hole 118. The cavity connector 66 includes a locking tab 74.

[0080] Air inlet 126 extends into the multi-part sprayer 10 and is configured to receive an air supply line (not shown) extending from a compressed air source (such as an air compressor or air canister). Air inlet 126 provides passage for compressed air to enter the multi-part sprayer 10. Multiple air inlets 126 provide alternative connection points for the air supply line. Unused air inlets 126 may be plugged. Air inlet 126 extends to control valve 124. Air outlet 128 extends from control valve 124 through handle 12. Air outlet 128 provides passage for discharging compressed air from the multi-part sprayer 10.

[0081] Actuator 16 is disposed in the multi-component sprayer 10 and configured to actuate mixing chamber 64 between the spraying state and the purging state. In the spraying state, mixing chamber 64 is positioned to receive the first component material and the second component material and to spray the multi-component material from the spray nozzle 72. In the purging state, mixing chamber 64 is fluidly disconnected from the first component material and the second component material and is instead positioned to receive purge air from the purging chamber 94. In the example shown, actuator 16 is a pneumatic piston.

[0082] A control valve 124 is disposed in the multi-part sprayer 10 and controls the flow of air to and from the actuator 16 via control paths 130a and 130b. A trigger 14 is pivotally connected to the multi-part sprayer 10 and actuates the control valve 124 between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the control valve 124 directs compressed air from the air inlet 126 via control path 130a to the actuator 16 and directs used compressed air from the actuator 16 via control path 130b to the air outlet 128. In the second position, the control valve 124 directs compressed air from the air inlet 126 via control path 130b to the actuator 16 and directs used compressed air from the actuator 16 via control path 130a to the air outlet 128. The compressed air, guided via control path 130a, drives actuator 16 in direction D2 and thus drives mixing chamber assembly 22 to position it in the spraying state, such that mixing chamber 64 receives the first component fluid and the second component fluid. The compressed air, guided via control path 130b, drives actuator 16 in direction D1 and thus drives mixing chamber assembly 22 to fluidly disconnect it from the first and second component fluid flows and position it in the purging state.

[0083] A purge air path 132 extends from a control valve 124 to a purge port 136 in the mounting head 18. The purge air path 132 is continuously connected to a stream of compressed air that enters the multi-part sprayer 10 via an air inlet 126. The purge air is a portion of the compressed air supplied via the air inlet 126 and flowing through the purge air path 132 to the mounting head 18.

[0084] Mounting head 18 is mounted to multi-component sprayer 10. Mounting head 18 secures mounting head 18 to gun body 68. In the illustrated example, head connector 40 and multi-component sprayer 10 include interface threads. Manifold 30 is mounted to mounting head 18 to supply the first and second component materials to mounting head 18. In the illustrated example, manifold fastener 146 extends into fastener hole 138 formed in mounting head 18. However, it should be understood that manifold 30 can be mounted to mounting head 18 in any desired manner.

[0085] A receiving portion 42 extends from the end of the mounting head 18 opposite to the head connector 40. A head cavity 46 is defined by the receiving portion 42 and configured to receive a fluid cartridge 20. A purge port 134 extends through the mounting head 18 to a purge port 136. The purge port 136 extends into the cavity wall 38. The purge port 134 receives purge air from a purge air path 132. The purge port 134 supplies the purge air to the fluid cartridge 20 located at the purge port 134.

[0086] A fluid cartridge 20 is disposed in a head cavity 46. A central extension 62 extends along axis AA and protrudes beyond the second end 52 of the fluid cartridge 20. The central extension 62 is formed by a portion of the mixer body 82 extending beyond the second end 52. The central extension 62 extends into a central hole 34 for mounting the head 18. A cartridge hole 54 extends from the first end 50 through the fluid cartridge 20 and through the central extension 62. The cartridge hole 54 receives a mixing chamber 64. The mixing chamber 64 is axially movable within the cartridge hole 54 along axis AA. A slot 144 is formed in the bottom of the body 68. The slot 144 extends along axis AA between the first body end 110 and the second body end 112. A locating pin 142 is mounted to the mixer body 82 and extends into the cartridge hole 54. The locating pin 142 is disposed within the slot 144 and slides along the slot 144 when the mixing chamber 64 changes between the spraying state and the purging state. The locating pin 142, interface-connected with slot 144, ensures proper mounting and alignment of the mixing chamber 64. Because the locating pin 142 prevents an incorrectly configured mixing chamber 64 from traveling through the housing aperture 54, the locating pin 142 and slot 144 ensure the mixing chamber 64 is correctly mounted. Additionally, the locating pin 142 and slot 144 provide error prevention by preventing the mixing chamber 64 from being installed in reverse. In some examples, although the locating pin 142 is shown formed separately from the body 68, it should be understood that the locating pin 142 and the body 68 can be formed as a single part. Although the fluid housing 20 is shown to include the locating pin 142, it should be understood that the fluid housing 20 can include any desired type of protrusion suitable for interface-connection with slot 144. For example, the locating pin 142 can be formed as a guide rail or other elongated protrusion, or as a series of discrete protrusions.

[0087] A purge column 60 protrudes from the second end 52. The purge column 60 extends into the purge port 134 of the mounting head 18. A fluid check valve 86c is disposed within the fluid housing 20 and held within the fluid housing 20 by the purge column 60. In the example shown, a portion of the purge column 60 forms a seat for a ball 98 of the fluid check valve 86c. A spring 96 biases the ball 98 to a closed position, such that the ball 98 is normally seated in the closed position.

[0088] The purge path 140 extends from the purge column 60 through the fluid cartridge 20 to the cartridge orifice 54. The purge path 140 is configured to supply purge air to the purge chamber 94 of the cartridge orifice 54. A fluid check valve 86c prevents air or material from flowing back into the mounting head 18 while purge air enters the purge path 140. For example, if cross-contamination or other leakage of the component material occurs, the component material may flow into the purge path 140. The fluid check valve 86c prevents the material from flowing back from the fluid cartridge 20 into the purge orifice 134. In this way, the fluid check valve 86c keeps the air path within the mounting head 18 and the multi-part sprayer 10 free from material contamination. If such contamination does occur in the fluid cartridge 20, the contamination is confined to the fluid cartridge 20, allowing the user to restore operation of the multi-part sprayer 10 simply by replacing the fluid cartridge 20, rather than the mounting head 18 or other upstream components. Although the fluid check valve 86c is shown as a ball check valve, it should be understood that the fluid check valve 86c can belong to any desired structure suitable for ensuring unidirectional flow through the purge column 60.

[0089] The mixing chamber assembly 22 is operatively connected to the actuator 16. A chamber connector 66 is disposed on and connected to the tail 104 of the mixing chamber 64. A locking tab 74 protrudes from the end of the chamber connector 66 opposite to the mixing chamber 64. The locking tab 74 is disposed in the tab locking member 34 of the actuator 16.

[0090] During operation, control valve 124 is initially positioned to guide compressed air via control path 130b. The compressed air flows to the cavity housing actuator 16 and pushes actuator 16 in direction D1. Actuator 16 pushes mixing chamber assembly 22 into the purge state in direction D1. The purge air portion of the compressed air flows from control valve 124 through purge air path 132 in the multi-part sprayer 10 and through purge orifice 134 in mounting head 18. The purge air has sufficient pressure to open fluid check valve 86c. The purge air flows through purge path 140 and into purge chamber 94. With mixing chamber assembly 22 in the purge state, inlet orifices 106a, 106b (in...) Figure 2A and Figure 2B (Best shown in the diagram) is fluidly connected to the purge chamber 94. The purge air enters the mixing chamber through inlet holes 106a, 106b and flows to the spray orifice 72 through the mixing hole 108. The purge air carries away any component material or residue in the mixing chamber 64 and through the spray orifice 72, thereby preventing undesirable curing within the mixing chamber 64.

[0091] To initiate spraying, the user actuates trigger 14, which actuates control valve 124 such that control valve 124 fluidly connects control path 130a to air inlet 126 and air outlet to control path 130b. A portion of compressed air biased towards actuator 16 in direction D1 is discharged through control path 130b and air outlet 128. Another portion of compressed air is supplied to actuator 16 via control path 130a. This portion of compressed air drives actuator 16 in direction D2. Actuator 16 pulls mixing chamber 64 to the spraying state. Mixing chamber 64 receives a first component material and a second component material and ejects a spray of the multi-component material from spray nozzle 72. The purge air continues to flow into the purge chamber but is blocked by sealing members 102a, 102b. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Prevent it from entering the mixing chamber.

[0092] The user releases trigger 14 and control valve 124 returns to the initial position. Compressed air drives actuator 16 in direction D1, and actuator 16 pushes mixing chamber 64 into the purge state. The purge air cleans any remaining material from mixing orifice 108.

[0093] Fluid cartridge 20 offers significant advantages. Fluid cartridge 20 facilitates quick and easy replacement of fluid handling components that can be contaminated by crossflow. Fluid cartridge 20 provides a single replacement part, thereby reducing the number of parts and inventory for the user, reducing downtime, and increasing operational efficiency. Fluid check valve 86c allows purge air into fluid cartridge 20 but prevents any upstream flow from exiting purge path 140 to reach mounting head 18. In this way, any contaminants that may be present in fluid cartridge 20 are confined within fluid cartridge 20. The air path upstream of fluid check valve 86c is protected from contamination.

[0094] Figure 4A This is the front isometric side view of the mounting head 18. Figure 4B This is the front elevation view of the mounting head 18. Figure 4C This is a bottom-view plan view of the installation of head 18. Figures 4A to 4C They will be discussed together. Mounting head 18 includes a center hole 34 ( Figure 4A and Figure 4B Material ports 36a and 36b Figure 4A and Figure 4B ); cavity wall 38 ( Figure 4A and Figure 4B ), receiving part 42, pin 44 ( Figure 4A and Figure 4B ), purge port 136 ( Figure 4B ), Fastener hole 138 ( Figure 4C Clean air port 148 ( Figure 4B), Cleaning control port 150 ( Figure 4A ), Lubricating oil inlet 152 ( Figure 4A ), Lubricating oil outlet 154 ( Figure 4B ), and entry port 156 ( Figure 4C The receiving section 42 defines the head cavity 46. Figure 4A and Figure 4B ) and includes slots 48a, 48b ( Figure 4A and Figure 4B ).

[0095] Mounting head 18 connects to the multi-part sprayer (in...) Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2A and Figure 3A (best shown in the middle) and from manifold 30 (in Figure 1B (best shown in the image) receives the first component material and the second component material. Connector (such as head connector 40) Figures 1A to 3B The receiving portion 42 is connected to the end opposite to the mounting head 18. The receiving portion 42 protrudes from the mounting head 18 and is configured to receive the fluid cartridge 20 (in...). Figure 2B , Figure 3B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B (Best shown in the image). Cavity wall 38 defines the end of receiving portion 42. Receiving portion 42 includes a receiving cover (such as retaining cap 24). Figures 1A to 3B The external thread secures the fluid cartridge 20 within the receiving portion 42. A central bore 34 extends axially through the mounting head 18. The central bore 34 provides a passage for mixing chamber assemblies (such as mixing chamber assembly 22). Figures 1B to 3B It can extend through the channel.

[0096] Slots 48a and 48b extend axially into the receiving portion 42 toward the body of the mounting head 18. However, it should be understood that slots 48a and 48b can be positioned at any desired location on the receiving portion 42. Slots 48a and 48b are configured to receive protrusions 56a and 56b of the fluid cartridge 20 (in... Figure 1B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B (Best shown in the diagram) to ensure proper alignment of the fluid cartridge 20 in the receiving portion 42 during assembly and to prevent rotation of the fluid cartridge 20 relative to the mounting head 18. Pins 44 are provided at the closed ends of the slots 48a, 48b near the body of the mounting head 18. Pins 44 are formed of a resilient material (such as hardened steel) and provide a support against which a user can abut to support a lever arm (such as a screwdriver) to facilitate removal of the fluid cartridge 20 from the mounting head 18.

[0097] Lubricating oil inlet 152 extends into mounting head 18. Lubricating oil inlet 152 provides a port through which a user can supply lubricating oil to components of the multi-part sprayer 10. The lubricating oil flows from lubricating oil inlet 152 through mounting head 18 to lubricating oil outlet 154. Clean air port 148 extends into cavity wall 38. Clean air port 148 is configured to supply clean air to an air cap, such as air cap 28 (…). Figures 1A to 3B The cleaning air exits the fluid head at cleaning air port 148 and flows through fluid cartridge 20 to air cap 28. A control valve (such as a needle valve) can be mounted to mounting head 18 at cleaning control port 150 to control the flow rate of cleaning air through mounting head 18. Air cap 28 includes an internal channel configured to spray the cleaning air near the spray orifice of the mixing chamber.

[0098] Fastener hole 138 extends into the bottom of mounting head 18. Fastener hole 138 is configured to receive fasteners (such as screws) to secure manifold 30 to mounting head 18. Inlet port 156 extends into the bottom of mounting head 18 and is configured to receive individual component material from manifold 30. Material ports 36a, 36b extend into cavity wall 38 of mounting head 18. Each material port 36a, 36b is fluidly connected to one of the inlet ports 156. Material ports 36a, 36b are configured to receive a column of fluid protruding from fluid cartridge 20. Material ports 36a, 36b supply the component material to fluid cartridge 20. Purge port 136 extends into cavity wall 38. Purge port 136 is configured to receive a purge column protrusion from fluid cartridge 20 to supply purge air to fluid cartridge 20.

[0099] Mounting head 18 facilitates quick and easy assembly and disassembly of the multi-part sprayer 10. Mounting head 18 can be connected to and disconnected from the multi-part sprayer 10 via the connector. In some examples, mounting head 18 facilitates the retrofitting of existing multi-part sprayers. For example, the aforementioned components can be removed and mounting head 18 can be attached to the gun body of an existing sprayer. Mounting head 18 provides the necessary flow paths to supply component materials, air, and lubricant to the fluid handling components of the multi-part sprayer 10 (such as fluid cartridge 20 and mixing chamber 64).

[0100] Figure 5A This is the first isometric side view of the fluid box 20. Figure 5B This is the second isometric side view of the fluid box 20. Figure 5A and Figure 5BThese will be discussed together. The fluid housing 20 includes a first end 50; a second end 52; a housing opening 54; protrusions 56a and 56b; fluid columns 58a and 58b; a purge column 60; a central extension 62; a mixer body 82; sealing housings 84a and 84b; a housing cover 92; a lubricating oil port 158; a cleaning inlet 160; and a cleaning outlet 162. The housing cover 92 includes cover slots 93a and 93b.

[0101] Sealing housings 84a and 84b are disposed on opposite sides of the mixer body 82. A central extension 62 is formed by a portion of the mixer body 82 extending beyond the second end 52. A housing hole 54 extends axially from the first end 50 through the fluid housing 20 and through the central extension 62. The central extension 62 extends to the mounting head 18 (in...). Figures 4A to 4C The center hole 34 (best shown in the middle) Figures 1B to 4B In. The central aperture 34 receives a mixing cavity, such as mixing cavity 64 (in Figures 6A to 6D (best shown in the middle), mixing chamber 64′ ( Figure 7A and Figure 7B ), Mixing chamber 64″ ( Figure 8A and Figure 8B ), Mixing chamber 64″′ ( Figure 9A and Figure 9B ), and mixing chamber 64″″ ( Figure 10A and Figure 10B Side seals 88a and 88b are disposed within the sealing housings 84a and 84b. Figure 2A and Figure 2B ) is preloaded, and the sealing members 102a, 102b of the side seals 88a, 88b ( Figure 2A and Figure 2B It protrudes from the sealing housing 84a, 84b into the central hole 34.

[0102] Fluid columns 58a and 58b extend from sealing housings 84a and 84b, respectively. Fluid columns 58a and 58b protrude from the second end 52 of the fluid cartridge 20. In the example shown, fluid columns 58a and 58b protrude from sealing housings 84a and 84b. Fluid columns 58a and 58b are configured to extend to the material ports 36a and 36b of the mounting head 18 (in... Figure 2B(Best shown in the diagram). Fluid column 58a receives the first component material and fluid column 58b receives the second component material from the mounting head 18. As discussed above, a check valve is provided in the fluid box 20 near the fluid columns 58a and 58b to prevent material backflow away from the fluid columns 58a and 58b. A flow path extends from the fluid columns 58a and 58b through the fluid box 20 to the box orifice 54 to provide the first and second component materials to the mixing chamber provided in the box orifice 54. Fluid columns 58a and 58b are provided on the opposite side of the central extension 62. However, it should be understood that the fluid columns 58a and 58b can be provided at any desired location corresponding to the location of the material ports 36a and 36b.

[0103] Protrusions 56a and 56b are formed by sealing housings 84a and 84b, respectively. The cover 92 includes cover slots 93a and 93b extending around the protrusions 56a and 56b. The protrusions 56a and 56b are configured to extend into slots 48a and 48b of the mounting head 18 (in... Figure 4A and Figure 4B (best shown in the image). Protrusions 56a and 56b provide gripping points for the user to operate the fluid cartridge 20, ensuring proper alignment of the fluid cartridge 20 during installation and preventing rotation of the fluid cartridge 20 relative to the mounting head 18.

[0104] The purge column 60 extends from the second end 52 of the fluid cartridge 20. The purge column 60 is configured to extend to the purge port 136 of the mounting head 18. Figure 3B and Figure 4B The purge column 60 receives purge air from the mounting head 18. The purge air is supplied to the housing orifice 54 through an internal flow path through the fluid housing 20. As discussed above, a check valve is disposed in the fluid housing 20 near the purge column 60. The check valve prevents fluid backflow through the purge column 60.

[0105] Lubricating oil port 158 ​​extends into the second end 52 of fluid cartridge 20. A flow path extends from lubricating oil port 158 ​​through the mixer to cartridge orifice 54 to supply lubricating oil to cartridge orifice 54. Cleaning inlet 160 extends into the second end 52 of fluid cartridge 20. Cleaning outlet 162 extends into the first end 50 of fluid cartridge 20. In the example shown, cleaning outlet 162 extends through cartridge cover 92. A flow path extends through mixer body 82 to supply clean air from cleaning inlet 160 to cleaning outlet 162.

[0106] A lid 92 extends over multiple portions of the mixer body 82 and the sealing housings 84a, 84b. The lid 92 provides a uniform outer surface to facilitate user operation of the fluid cartridge 20. In some examples, the lid 92 holds the sealing housings 84a, 84b and the mixer body 82 together to form the fluid cartridge 20. The lid 92 covers the mixer body 82 and the sealing housings 84a, 84b and protects them from impact damage. The lid 92 may include a rearwardly extending post 164 configured to fit within a recess 166 formed in the mixer body 82. The post 164, present in the recess 166 for locking the lid 92 to the mixer body 82, ensures proper alignment during assembly of the fluid cartridge 20.

[0107] In the example shown, the lid 92 includes an external recess configured to facilitate a user's grip on the fluid cartridge 20. Although the lid 92 is shown as including a recess, it should be understood that the lid 92 may include any desired structural features adapted to enhance the user's grip on the fluid cartridge 20. For example, the lid 92 may include grooved, raised, textured, or other non-smooth surfaces.

[0108] Fluid cartridge 20 consolidates approximately fifteen parts of an existing multi-part head into a single cartridge, resulting in faster head replacement compared to existing multi-part heads used for applying binary compounds (e.g., epoxy resin), which require periodic cleaning or replacement at the point where the two parts meet for operation. Thus, fluid cartridge 20 provides a single replaceable cartridge incorporating all replacement parts. In many embodiments, the metal and / or plastic sealing housings 84a, 84b include side seals, side sealing O-rings, springs, and check valves designed for easy removal and replacement to minimize downtime. Fluid cartridge 20 can be disposable to minimize maintenance time and facilitate preventative maintenance. Therefore, fluid cartridge 20 facilitates quick and easy replacement of parts in multi-part sprayers that typically require maintenance.

[0109] The fluid cartridge 20 offers significant advantages. As discussed above, the first and second component materials are mixed to form the multi-component material in the mixing chamber located in the central orifice 34. If crossflow occurs, the multi-component material may form within the sealing components and the passageways located in the fluid cartridge 20, causing those components to malfunction or become stuck. In the event of such crossflow, the fluid cartridge 20 can be removed from the multi-component sprayer 10 and replaced with a new fluid cartridge 20, thereby replacing all those malfunctioning components. Additionally, the check valves located at the purge column 60 and fluid columns 58a, 58b prevent any crossflow from upstream of the fluid cartridge 20 into the mounting head 18. Thus, the fluid cartridge 20 prevents contamination of the mounting head 18. In this way, the fluid cartridge 20 provides a single replacement part that can be quickly replaced by a new fluid cartridge 20. This reduces downtime, increases the efficiency of the spraying process, and eliminates the need for the user to track multiple smaller replacement parts. The sealing housings 84a, 84b also contain most or all of the sealing elements pre-assembled in the fluid cartridge 20. This prevents the user from having to track down multiple smaller parts during repairs and replacements. The fluid cartridge 20 also facilitates the installation of different mixing chambers with different configurations or constructions, thus providing a multi-part sprayer 10 (in... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The modularity is best illustrated in the image.

[0110] Figure 6A This is an isometric side view of mixing chamber 64. Figure 6B This is a top view of the mixing chamber 64. Figure 6C This is the left elevation view of mixing chamber 64. Figure 6D This is the right elevation view of mixing chamber 64. Figure 6E This is a bottom view of the mixing chamber 64. Figures 6A to 6E They will be discussed together. The mixing chamber 64 includes a main body 68, a head 70, a spray orifice 72, and a tail 104. The main body 68 includes a first main body end 110; a second main body end 112; lateral sides 114a and 114b; inclined surfaces 116a and 116b; a top side 168; and a bottom side 170. The lateral sides 114a and 114b respectively include inlet ports 172a and 172b. The tail 104 includes a pin hole 118. The bottom side 170 includes a slot 144. The mixing chamber 64 is located along the chamber axis A. M -A M elongation.

[0111] The head 70 extends from the first body end 110 of the body 68. The head 70 is configured to connect to an air cap, such as an air cap 28. Figures 1A to 3BFor example, the head 70 may include external threads configured to connect to the air cap. The tail 104 extends from the second body end 112 of the body 68. A pin hole 118 extends laterally through the tail 104. The tail 104 is configured to receive a connector (such as a cavity connector 66). Figures 1B to 3B and Figures 10A to 10B The connector facilitates the connection of the mixing chamber 64 to the actuator of a multi-part sprayer (such as the multi-part sprayer 10). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The actuator 16 (best shown in the image) Figure 2A and Figure 3A (best shown in the diagram). The pin can extend through the pin hole 118 to secure the connector to the tail 104.

[0112] A slot 144 is formed on the bottom side 170 of the mixing chamber 64. The slot 144 extends axially along the body 68 from the first body end 110 to the second body end 112. The slot 144 is configured to receive a protrusion, such as a locating pin 142. Figure 3B ), fins, guide rails, or other such protrusions. These protrusions may be formed in the mounting head 18 (in... Figures 4A to 4C The center hole 34 (best shown in the middle) Figures 1B to 4B ) neutralized / or formed in fluid cartridge 20 (in Figure 5A and Figure 5B Box hole 54 (best shown in the middle) Figures 1B to 3B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B The slot 144 receiving the protrusion provides a mistake-proofing measure by preventing the user from unintentionally installing the mixing chamber 64 in the reverse position. Additionally, the slot 144 provides a keying feature that prevents incorrect installation of the mixing chamber in the multi-part sprayer 10. Although the slot 144 is described as being formed on the bottom side 170, it should be understood that the slot 144 may be formed on the top side 168. Although the slot 144 is shown extending from the first body end 110 to the second body end 112, it should be understood that the slot 144 may extend partially along the axial length of the body 68, such that the slot 144 includes an open end and a closed end.

[0113] Inlet ports 172a and 172b extend into the lateral sides 114a and 114b, respectively. Inlet ports 172a and 172b receive the component material and purge air, and transmit the component material and purge air to inlet holes 106a and 106b. Figure 2B and Figure 10B ) and material passages in mixing chamber 64 (such as mixing orifice 108) Figure 2B , Figure 3B and Figure 10BThe spray nozzle 72 is located at the distal end of the head 70 opposite to the first body end 110. The spray nozzle 72 ejects the material and air from the material passage.

[0114] Lateral sides 114a and 114b are flat sides disposed on opposite sides of the main body 68. The first main body end 110 is disposed orthogonal to the lateral sides 114a and 114b. The top side 168 extends between the lateral sides 114a and 114b and is curved in the example shown. The bottom side 170 extends between the lateral sides 114a and 114b and is curved in the example shown.

[0115] A ramp 116a is disposed between the first main body end 110 and the lateral side surface 114a, forming a transition portion between the first main body end 110 and the lateral side surface 114a. A ramp 116b is disposed between the first main body end 110 and the lateral side surface 114b, forming a transition portion between the first main body end 110 and the lateral side surface 114b. The ramps 116a and 116b together form the ramp feature portion of the mixing cavity 64. In the example shown, the ramps 116a and 116b are integrally formed on the mixing cavity 64.

[0116] like Figure 6B As shown, inclined plane 116a is oriented with angle θ and inclined plane 116b is oriented with angle β. Angle θ is between approximately 7 degrees and 30 degrees. Angle β is between approximately 7 degrees and 30 degrees. In some examples, angle θ and angle β have the same value, but it should be understood that angle θ and angle β can be different.

[0117] like Figure 6C As shown, the inclined surface 116a has a height H1, while the flat portion forming the transverse side surface 114a has a height H2. Height H1 is less than height H2. However, it should be understood that in some examples, height H1 is the same as or greater than height H2. For example... Figure 6D As shown, the inclined surface 116b has a height H3 and the flat portion forming the transverse side surface 114b has a height H4. Height H3 is less than height H4. However, it should be understood that in some examples, height H3 is the same as or greater than height H4.

[0118] Inclined surfaces 116a and 116b facilitate the installation of the mixing chamber 64 into the fluid housing 20. Side seals 88a and 88b... Figure 2A and Figure 2B ) protrudes into the central hole 34 and is preloaded, such that the spring force causes the sealing members 102a, 102b ( Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe mixing chamber 64 is biased into the central hole. During installation, the mixing chamber 64 is pushed through the side seals 88a and 88b, and the side seals 88a and 88b engage and seal the lateral sides 114a and 114b, respectively. The bevels 116a and 116b are the first portions of the mixing chamber 64 used to engage the side seals 88a and 88b during installation. The bevels 116a and 116b push the sealing members 102a and 102b away from the axis AA (in...). Figure 2B (best shown in the diagram) such that the gap between the side seals 88a and 88b is widened to a sufficient width for the side seals 88a and 88b to travel onto and engage the lateral sides 114a and 114b.

[0119] The mixing chamber 64 offers significant advantages. It can be easily inserted into and removed from the fluid cartridge 20, allowing for simple and easy replacement by the user. By engaging pre-loaded side seals 88a and 88b and widening the gap between them to allow engagement of the side seals 88a and 88b with the lateral sides 114a and 114b, bevels 116a and 116b facilitate installation within the fluid cartridge 20. The bevels 116a and 116b are angled such that they do not damage the sealing surfaces of the side seals 88a and 88b.

[0120] Figure 7A This is an isometric side view of mixing chamber 64′. Figure 7B This is a bottom view of the mixing chamber 64′. Figure 7A and Figure 7B They will be discussed together. The mixing chamber 64′ includes a body 68, a head 70, a spray orifice 72, and a tail 104. The body 68 includes a first body end 110, a second body end 112, lateral sides 114a and 114b; inclined surfaces 116a and 116b; a groove 144′; a top side 168; and a bottom side 170. The lateral sides 114a and 114b respectively include inlet ports 172a and 172b (only inlet port 172b is shown). The tail 104 includes a pin hole 118. The mixing chamber 64′ is located along the cavity axis A. M -A M It is elongated.

[0121] Mixing cavity 64′ is generally similar to mixing cavity 64 (in Figures 6A to 6E (Best shown in the diagram). The groove 144' extends axially along the mixing chamber 64' and is formed on the head 70, body 68, and tail 104. More specifically, compared to the groove 144 ( Figure 3B , Figure 6A and Figure 6EThe groove 144' extends further into the bottom side surface 170 of the mixing chamber 64'. Thus, the groove 144' forms a "deep groove". The groove 144' is configured to receive a protrusion (such as a pin, fin, guide rail, or other such protrusion), which may be formed in the mounting head 18 (in...). Figures 4A to 4C The center hole 34 (best shown in the middle) Figure 2B and Figure 3B (best shown) in and / or formed in fluid cartridge 20 (in Figure 2B , Figure 3B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B The best shown in the middle) box hole 54 (in Figure 2B and Figure 3B (best shown in the diagram). The groove 144' receiving the protrusion provides a safety measure by preventing the user from unintentionally installing the mixing chamber 64' in the reverse position. Additionally, the groove 144' provides a keying feature that prevents misoperation in the multi-part sprayer 10 (in...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B (As best shown in the image) The mixing chamber is not installed correctly. Although the groove 144' is described as being formed on the bottom side 170, it should be understood that the groove 144' can be formed on the top side 168.

[0122] Figure 8A This is an isometric side view of the mixing chamber 64″. Figure 8B This is the front elevation view of the 64″ mixing chamber. Figure 8A and Figure 8B They will be discussed together. The mixing chamber 64″ includes a body 68, a head 70, a spray orifice 72, and a tail 104. The body 68 includes a first body end 110, a second body end 112, lateral sides 114a and 114b; inclined surfaces 116a and 116b; a top side 168; and a bottom side 170′. Lateral sides 114a and 114b respectively include inlet ports 172a and 172b (only inlet port 172b is shown). The tail 104 includes a pin hole 118. The mixing chamber 64″ is located along the cavity axis A. M -A M It is elongated.

[0123] The mixing chamber 64″ is generally similar to the mixing chamber 64 (in Figures 6A to 6D (best shown in the middle) and mixing chamber 64′ ( Figure 7A and Figure 7B The bottom side 170' of the mixing chamber 64″ is flat and extends between the transverse sides 114a, 114b and between the first body end 110 and the second body end 112. Figure 8BAs best shown, the bottom side 170′ is configured to be transverse to the transverse sides 114a, 114b. In the example shown, the bottom side 170′ is configured to be orthogonal to the transverse sides 114a, 114b, but it should be understood that the bottom side 170′ can be configured to other orientations transverse to the transverse sides 114a, 114b.

[0124] The bottom side 170' is formed as a flat side, which is connected to the mounting head 18 (in Figures 4A to 4C The center hole 34 (best shown in the middle) Figure 2B and Figure 3B The corresponding flat portion (best shown in the diagram) fits and / or is formed in the fluid cartridge 20 (in Figure 2B , Figure 3B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B The best shown in the middle) box hole 54 (in Figure 2B and Figure 3B (Best shown in the image). The bottom side 170′ is flat while the top side 168 is rounded, which provides a safety measure to prevent the user from accidentally installing the mixing chamber 64″ in the reverse position. Additionally, the mixing chamber 64″, which includes three flat sides (lateral sides 114a, 114b and bottom side 170′), provides a keying feature to prevent misalignment in the multi-part sprayer 10 (in the image). Figure 1A and Figure 1B (As best shown in the image) an incorrectly installed mixing chamber. Although the bottom side 170′ is described as flat, it should be understood that the top side 168 can be flat and the bottom side 170′ can be rounded. In another example, both the bottom side 170′ and the top side 168 can be flat, such that the body 68 has a shape orthogonal to axis A. M -A M The cross-section is generally square. The generally square cross-section may or may not have wavy / band-shaped edges.

[0125] Figure 9A This is the first isometric side view of the mixing chamber 64″′. Figure 9B This is the second isometric side view of the mixing chamber 64″′. Figure 9A and Figure 9B They will be discussed together. The mixing chamber 64′ includes a main body 68, a head 70, a tail 104, and a spray nozzle 72. The main body 68 includes a first main body end 110, a second main body end 112, lateral sides 114a and 114b; inclined surfaces 116a and 116b; a top side 168; and a bottom side 170. Lateral sides 114a and 114b each include inlet ports 172a and 172b. The tail 104 includes a pin hole 118. The mixing chamber 64″′ is generally similar to the mixing chamber 64 (in... Figures 6A to 6DThe best shown in the middle), mixing cavity 64′ (Fig. 7), and mixing cavity 64″ (Fig. 8).

[0126] Figure 10A This is an isometric side view of the mixing chamber assembly 22′. Figure 10B It is along Figure 10A The cross-sectional view of the mixing chamber assembly 22′ taken by line BB in the figure. Figure 10A and Figure 10B They will be discussed together. The mixing chamber assembly 22′ includes a mixing chamber 64″″ and a chamber connector 66. The mixing chamber 64″″ includes a body 68′; a head 70′; a spray orifice 72; a tail 104; inlet holes 106a and 106b; a mixing hole 108; and a bevel 116′. The body 68′ includes a first body end 110, a second body end 112, lateral sides 114a and 114b; a top side 168; and a bottom side 170. Lateral sides 114a and 114b include inlet ports 172a and 172b, respectively. The tail 104 includes a pin hole 118. The bevel 116′ includes a wavy end 174. The chamber connector 66 includes a locking tab 74, an attachment portion 176, and a shaft 178. The attachment portion 176 includes an opening 180.

[0127] The mixing chamber assembly 22' is generally similar to the mixing chamber assembly 22 ( Figures 1B to 3B The mixing cavity 64″″′ is generally similar to the mixing cavity 64 (in Figures 6A to 6E (best shown in the figure), mixing cavity 64′ (Figure 7), mixing cavity 64″ (Figure 8), and mixing cavity 64″′ (Figure 9). A ramp 116′ is provided on the head 70′. The ramp 116′ forms the ramp feature of the mixing cavity 64″″, and the ramp feature of the mixing cavity 64″″ is similar to that formed by ramps 116a, 116b (in... Figures 6B to 6D The best example shown is the inclined surface feature formed in the middle.

[0128] Cavity connector 66 is attached to mixing cavity 64″″ to form mixing cavity assembly 22′. Although cavity connector 66 is shown as being formed and attached to mixing cavity 64″″ separately, it should be understood that in some examples, cavity connector 66 and mixing cavity 64″″ may be integrally formed to provide a single mixing cavity assembly 22′. Cavity connector 66 may be removably or permanently mounted to mixing cavity 64″″. In the example shown, attachment portion 176 receives tail 104, and locking devices (such as pins, pegs, or other similar devices) are inserted through pin holes 118 and openings 180 to secure cavity connector 66 to mixing cavity 64″″. Although cavity connector 66 and mixing cavity 64″″ are described as being attached by a pin connection, it should be understood that any suitable connection interface, such as threaded connection, press-fit or snap-fit ​​connection, and other options, may be used.

[0129] Shaft 178 extends from attachment portion 176 to locking tab 74. Locking tab 74 projects radially from the end of shaft 178. Locking tab 74 secures mixing chamber assembly 22' to actuator 16 (in Figure 2A and Figure 3A (as best shown in the diagram), so that actuator 16 can drive mixing chamber assembly 22′ between different states.

[0130] The head 70' extends from the first body end 110. A bevel 116' is mounted on the head 70'. In some examples, the bevel 116' is removable from the head 70', allowing it to be removed and replaced. The body 68' and head 70' can be formed of a durable material (such as hardened steel or other similar metals, or suitably a rigid plastic or polymer). Such a durable material may damage the sealing members 102a, 102b (in the case of the mixing chamber assembly 22' traveling beneath the preloaded sealing members 102a, 102b during installation). Figure 2B (best shown in the middle).

[0131] The bevel 116' includes a wavy end 174 and may be made of plastic or other suitably yielding material. The bevel 116' does not include any sharp edges and is suitably yielding so that the bevel 116' does not scratch or otherwise damage the sealing members 102a, 102b. The bevel 116' is for engaging the side seals 88a, 88b during installation of the mixing cavity 64″″. Figure 2B The first part (best shown in the image) is engaged by the corrugated end 174, which in turn engages the sealing members 102a and 102b and pushes them away from the axis AA (in the image). Figure 2B (Best shown in the diagram), such that the gap between the side seals 88a and 88b is widened to the width W1 of the widest portion of the ramp 116'. The lateral sides 114a and 114b are spaced apart by a width W2. In some examples, the width W1 is greater than the width W2, such that the sealing members 102a and 102b are spaced further apart than the lateral sides 114a and 114b to facilitate the lateral sides 114a and 114b traveling beneath and being engaged by the sealing members 102a and 102b. The width W2 being wider than the width W1 also prevents the sealing members 102a and 102b from unintentionally contacting the corner between the first body end 110 and the lateral sides 114a and 114b. In some examples, the width W1 and the width W2 are the same.

[0132] The mixing chamber assembly 22′ offers significant advantages. The chamber connector 66 facilitates the use of a single chamber connector 66 to mount various mixing chambers 64, 64′, 64″, 64″′, and 64″″. The mixing chambers can be replaced to provide optimal spraying. The mounting capability provided by the chamber connector 66 enables a modular, multi-part sprayer 10 (in... Figure 1A and Figure 1B (Best shown in the diagram). The cavity connector 66 also provides quick-change capability by offering a tool-less connection to the actuator 16. The bevel 116' allows the mixing cavity assembly 22' to be inserted through pre-loaded side seals 88a, 88b. The bevel 116' elevates the sealing members 102a, 102b away from the lateral sides 114a, 114b so that the sealing members 102a, 102b seat on the lateral sides 114a, 114b rather than on the ground corner of the body 68'. The bevel 116' can be formed of a polymer or other soft material (relative to the body 68'), thereby extending the life of the side seals 88a, 88b.

[0133] Figure 11 This is a partially exploded isometric side view of a multi-part sprayer 10′. The multi-part sprayer 10′ includes a handle 12, a trigger 14, a mounting head 18′, a fluid cartridge 20′, a retaining cap 24′, an air cap 28′, a mixing chamber 64″″, and a valve 182. The cartridge orifice 54′ and purge ports 136a, 136b or the fluid cartridge 20′ are shown. The valve needles 184a, 184b of valve 182 are shown. The mixing chamber 64″″ includes a body 68″ and a head 70″.

[0134] Fluid box 20′ is generally similar to fluid box 20 (in Figure 5A and Figure 5B (Best shown in the diagram). Fluid and air seals are provided in the fluid housing 20′. Purge ports 136a, 136b extend into the fluid housing 20′ to provide purge air to the mixing chamber 64″″. The mixing chamber 64″″ is generally similar to the mixing chamber 64, except that it remains stationary throughout operation (in the diagram). Figures 6A to 6E (best shown in the middle), mixing chamber 64′ ( Figure 7A and Figure 7B ), Mixing chamber 64″ ( Figure 8A and Figure 8B ), Mixing chamber 64″′ ( Figure 9A and Figure 9B ), and mixing chamber 64″″ ( Figure 10A and Figure 10B The housing aperture 54' extends partially into the fluid housing 20' and is open, extending only through the end of the fluid housing 20'. The body 68″ is received by the housing aperture 54'. The body 68″ and the housing aperture 54' may be corrugated to form a tight-fitting interface between the body 68″ and the housing aperture 54', thereby promoting a seal.

[0135] Valve needles 184a and 184b are formed as part of valve 182 and are located from actuator 16 (in Figure 2A and Figure 3A(Best shown in the diagram) extends. Each valve needle 184a, 184b extends into the material orifice formed in the fluid cartridge 20′ (similar to material channels 80a, 80b). Figure 2B In the process, a seal is provided in the material orifice and valve needles 184a, 184b are interfacially connected to the seal to control the flow rate of the first and second component materials through the fluid box 20′ to the mixing chamber 64″″.

[0136] A retaining cap 24' is attached to a multi-part sprayer 10' to secure the fluid cartridge 20' within the multi-part sprayer 10'. For example, the retaining cap 24' may include threads configured to interface with threads on the multi-part sprayer 10'. In the illustrated example, the fluid cartridge 20' is disposed within a mounting head 18', which is integrally formed as part of the body of the multi-part sprayer 10'. An air cap 28' is attached to the retaining cap 24'. One of the air cap 28' and the retaining cap 24' may contact the shoulder of the mixing chamber 64″″′ to push the mixing chamber 64″″′ further into the cartridge aperture 54', thereby enhancing the seal between the mixing chamber 64″″′ and the cartridge aperture 54'.

[0137] During operation, valve needles 184a and 184b are axially translated to control the flow rate of the first and second component materials reaching the mixing chamber 64″″′ and to control the flow rate of purge air reaching the mixing chamber 64″″′ through purge ports 136a and 136b.

[0138] The fluid head 20' integrates the individual sealing components into a single housing, resulting in faster head replacement compared to existing multi-part heads used for applying binary compounds (such as epoxy resin), which require periodic cleaning or replacement at the point where the two components meet for operation. The fluid housing 20' can be disposable to minimize maintenance time and facilitate preventative repairs.

[0139] During assembly, fluid cartridge 20′ is inserted into multi-part sprayer 10′ such that valve needles 136a, 136b extend into fluid cartridge 20′. Mixing chamber 64″″′ is inserted into cartridge aperture 54′. Retaining cap 24′ is attached to multi-part sprayer 10′ and air cap 28′ is attached to retaining cap 24′. Thus, multi-part sprayer 10′ is assembled for operation. Multi-part sprayer 10′ can be easily disassembled by reversing the process. Air cap 28′ is removed. In some examples, with air cap 28′ removed, mixing chamber 64″″′ can be pulled through the opening in retaining cap 24′. To remove fluid cartridge 20′, retaining cap 24′ is removed. Fluid cartridge 20′ can then be pulled out of multi-part sprayer 10′ and pulled away from valve needles 184a, 184b. The multi-part sprayer 10′ can be reassembled with a new fluid cartridge 20′ and / or mixing chamber 64″″′ to restart spraying.

[0140] While the invention has been described with respect to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for its elements without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but rather to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fluid cartridge capable of being mounted to a multi-component sprayer, the fluid cartridge comprising: A box body, the box body having a first end and a second end; Box hole, which is an opening that passes through the first end; A first material flow path extending through the box body to the box opening and a second material flow path extending through the box body to the box opening; A purge path that extends through the housing body to the housing opening; A first fluid check valve is provided in a first material path and a second fluid check valve is provided in a second material path. The first fluid check valve is configured to prevent material from flowing back through a first fluid inlet, and the second fluid check valve is configured to prevent material from flowing back through a second fluid inlet. The first component material enters the first material path through the first fluid inlet, and the second component material enters the second material path through the second fluid inlet. and A third fluid check element is disposed in the purging path and configured to prevent backflow through a third inlet; The box body, the first fluid check valve, and the second fluid check valve form a single module configured to guide the first component material and the second component material through the box body and to the box opening.

2. The fluid cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: The first column extends from the second end, and the first fluid check element is at least partially disposed in the first column; The second column extends from the second end, and the second fluid check element is at least partially disposed in the second column; as well as A third column extending from the second end, wherein the third fluid check element is at least partially disposed in the third column.

3. The fluid cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising: A first side seal is disposed near the box opening in the first material path. The first side seal includes a first sealing member and a first side spring. The first side spring at least partially biases the first sealing member into the box opening, such that the first side seal is preloaded. as well as A second side seal is disposed near the box opening in the second material path. The second side seal includes a second sealing member and a second side spring. The second side spring at least partially biases the second sealing member into the box opening, thereby preloading the second side seal.

4. The fluid cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: A first protrusion extends outward from the outside of the cartridge body extending between the first end and the second end, and the first protrusion is configured to engage with the multi-part sprayer via an interface to prevent rotation of the fluid cartridge.

5. The fluid cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4, further comprising: A central extension protrudes axially beyond the second end, wherein the box hole extends through the central extension.

6. The fluid cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4, further comprising: A first sealing housing is installed to the body of the box, wherein a first fluid check element is at least partially disposed within the first sealing housing; and A second sealing housing is installed to the main body of the box, wherein a second fluid check element is at least partially disposed in the second sealing housing.

7. The fluid cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, The box hole is an opening that passes through the second end.

8. A fluid cartridge for use with a multi-component sprayer, the multi-component sprayer being configured to receive a first component material from a first fluid line and a second component material from a second fluid line, a mixing chamber being configured to receive the first component material and the second component material and combine the first component material and the second component material to form a multi-component material for spraying, a handle and a trigger, the fluid cartridge being configured to be mounted to the multi-component sprayer to receive the first component material and the second component material from the multi-component sprayer and to provide the first component material and the second component material to the mixing chamber, the fluid cartridge comprising: A box body extending along an axis, the box body including a first opening at a first end of the box body leading to a box hole inside the box body, wherein the mixing chamber is at least partially disposed within the box hole; A first material flow path extends from a first material inlet located on the outside of the box body through the box body to a first material outlet leading to the box opening; The second material flow path extends from a second material inlet located on the outside of the box body through the box body to a second material outlet leading to the box opening; A purge airflow path extends from a purge inlet located on the outside of the housing body through the housing body to a purge outlet, and the purge airflow path is configured to guide purge air through the housing body; A first fluid check element is disposed in a first material passage located between the first material inlet and the first material outlet, the first fluid check element preventing flow from the first material outlet to the first material inlet; A second fluid check valve is disposed in a second material passage located between the second material inlet and the second material outlet, the second fluid check valve preventing flow from the second material outlet to the second material inlet; and A third fluid check element is disposed in the purge air flow path and configured to prevent backflow through the purge inlet; The cartridge body is configured to move along the axis to enter the receiving cavity and engage with the multi-part sprayer during the installation of the fluid cartridge into the multi-part sprayer, and the cartridge body is configured to move along the axis to leave the receiving cavity during the removal of the fluid cartridge from the multi-part sprayer. The box body, the first fluid check valve, and the second fluid check valve form a single module configured to guide the first component material and the second component material through the box body and to the box opening.

9. The fluid cartridge according to claim 8, wherein, The first material flow path guides the first component material axially and then radially inward to the first material outlet.

10. The fluid cartridge according to claim 9, wherein, The second material flow path guides the second component material axially and then radially inward to the second material outlet.

11. The fluid cartridge according to claim 8, wherein, The first fluid check valve is normally closed.

12. The fluid cartridge according to claim 8, further comprising: A first side seal is disposed in the first material flow path. The first side seal includes a first sealing member and a first side spring. The first side spring biases the first sealing member at least partially into the box hole through the first material outlet, so that the first side seal is preloaded.

13. The fluid cartridge according to claim 8, wherein, The purge air path is axially arranged at a position between the first material outlet and the first end, where the purge air is output.

14. The fluid cartridge according to claim 8, wherein, The purge air path is axially arranged at a position between the first material outlet and the first opening, where the purge air is output.

15. The fluid cartridge according to claim 8, further comprising: A first post extending from the box body, wherein the first material inlet is formed through the first post; and A second column extends from the box body, wherein the second material inlet is formed through the second column.

16. The fluid cartridge according to claim 15, wherein, The first column extends axially and deviates radially from the axis.

17. The fluid cartridge according to claim 16, wherein, The second column extends axially and deviates radially from the axis.

18. The fluid cartridge according to claim 8, wherein, The box hole extends axially and completely through the box body between the first opening and the second opening formed on the second end.

19. The fluid cartridge according to claim 18, wherein, The mixing chamber is configured to extend through the second opening into the box hole.

20. The fluid cartridge according to claim 8, wherein, The fluid box includes at least one external protrusion extending outward away from the axis.

21. An assembly and mixing component configured to receive multiple component materials, combine the multiple component materials, and output a multi-component material formed by the combination of the multiple component materials, the assembly and mixing component comprising: A spray gun having a gun body, a handle protruding from the gun body, and a trigger supported by the gun body and actuable to cause spraying by the spray gun, the spray gun defining a receiving cavity; A fluid cartridge, capable of being installed within and detached from the receiving cavity, the fluid cartridge comprising: A box body, the box body extending along an axis and having a first end and a second end; A box opening extends through the first end into the box body; A first material flow path extends through the box opening between a first material inlet located on the outside of the box body and a first material outlet leading to the box opening; A second material flow path extends through the box body between a second material inlet located on the outside of the box body and a second material outlet leading to the box opening; A purge airflow path extends from a purge inlet located on the outside of the box body through the box body to a purge outlet, the purge airflow path being configured to guide purge air through the box body and being configured to output the purge air at a position axially located between the first material outlet and the first end; A first fluid check element is disposed in a first material passage and configured to prevent flow from the first material outlet to the first material inlet; A second fluid check element, disposed in a second material passage and configured to prevent flow from the second material outlet to the second material inlet; and A third fluid check valve, wherein the third fluid check valve is disposed in the purge air flow path and configured to prevent backflow through the purge inlet; and A mixing chamber is installed within the box hole, the mixing chamber having a first inlet port aligned with the first material outlet to receive a first component material from the first material flow path, and the mixing chamber having a second material port aligned with the second material outlet to receive a second component material from the second material flow path; The fluid cartridge is configured to enter the receiving cavity during installation by moving the fluid cartridge in a first axial direction along the axis, and the fluid cartridge is configured to leave the receiving cavity by moving the fluid cartridge in a second axial direction along the axis. The box body, the first fluid check valve, and the second fluid check valve form a single module configured to guide the first component material and the second component material through the box body and to the box opening.

22. The mounting and mixing assembly of claim 21, further comprising: At least one protrusion extending radially from the fluid cartridge; and At least one slot is formed in the spray gun, wherein, when the fluid cartridge is mounted to the spray gun, the at least one protrusion is disposed in the at least one slot.

23. The mounting and mixing assembly of claim 21, further comprising: An air cap extends through the first end into the box body.

24. The installation and mixing assembly according to claim 23, wherein, The air cap is installed into the mixing chamber via an interface thread.

25. A mounting head for mounting to a multi-part sprayer, the mounting head comprising: A head body with cavity walls; A receiving portion extending from the head body, the receiving portion and the cavity wall defining a receiving cavity, the fluid cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 20 being disposed at least partially in the receiving cavity, the receiving portion including a receiving portion wall extending at least partially about an axis; A first material port extending into the cavity wall, the first material port being configured to output a first component material flow; A second material port extending into the cavity wall, the second material port being configured to output a second component material flow; and It extends axially through the central hole of the head body.

26. The mounting head according to claim 25, further comprising: A purge port extends into the cavity wall and is configured to output a compressed air flow.

27. The mounting head according to any one of claims 25 and 26, further comprising: A first slot is formed in the wall of the receiving portion and opens in a first direction along the axis; The second slot is formed in the wall of the receiving part and opens in a second direction along the axis.

28. The mounting head according to claim 27, further comprising: The first pin is disposed at the closed end of the first slot; and The second pin is disposed at the closed end of the second slot.

29. The mounting head according to any one of claims 25, 26, and 28, further comprising: A head connector, supported by the head body and rotatable about the axis, is configured to connect the mounting head to the multi-part sprayer.

30. An installation and mixing component, comprising: Mounting head according to any one of claims 25 to 29; and A fluid cartridge, configured to be at least partially disposed within the receiving cavity, configured to interfaceally engage with a first material port to receive a first component material, and configured to interfaceally engage with a second material port to receive a second component material, the fluid cartridge comprising: A box body, the box body extending along the axis and having a first end and a second end; A box opening extends through the first end into the box body; A first material flow path extends through the box body between a first material inlet on the outside of the box body and a first material outlet leading to the box opening; The second material flow path extends through the box body between the second material inlet on the outside of the box body and the second material outlet leading to the box opening; A purge path that extends through the housing body to the housing opening; A first fluid check element is disposed in a first material passage to prevent flow from the first material outlet to the first material inlet. A second fluid check element, disposed in a second material passage, prevents flow from the second material outlet to the second material inlet; and A third fluid check element is disposed in the purging path and configured to prevent backflow through a third inlet; The box body, the first fluid check valve, and the second fluid check valve form a single module configured to guide the first component material and the second component material through the box body and to the box opening.

31. The mounting and mixing assembly of claim 30, further comprising: A manifold that can be installed on the mounting head.

32. A mixing chamber configured to be disposed within a housing aperture in a housing body of a fluid cartridge according to claim 1 of a multi-part spray gun, and configured to receive a first component fluid from a first fluid channel in the multi-part spray gun and a second component fluid from a second fluid channel in the multi-part spray gun, the mixing chamber comprising: A cavity body extending between a first body end and a second body end and elongated along a body axis, the cavity body comprising: First transverse side; Second transverse side; A top side surface that extends between the first lateral side surface and the second lateral side surface; The bottom side extends between the first lateral side and the second lateral side; and A head that extends from the first body end; An inclined surface mounted on the head is configured to contact a first side seal and a second side seal when the mixing chamber moves through the box hole in a first direction, and to push the first side seal and the second side seal away from the body axis, thereby increasing the gap between the first side seal and the second side seal. A mixing hole, which extends to the spray nozzle and axially extends through the head and into the cavity body; A first inlet orifice, extending into the first lateral side and extending to the mixing orifice, said first inlet orifice being configured to guide the first component fluid to the mixing orifice; and A second inlet port extends into the second lateral side and into the mixing port, the second inlet port being configured to guide the second component fluid into the mixing port.

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