Dosing device with dosing cap

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dosing device comprising: a container; and a dosing cap comprising: an inner portion disposed on the container, wherein the inner portion comprises an inner wall, an outer wall, and a bottom surface; a piston, wherein a bottom surface of the piston is disposed on top of the bottom surface of the inner portion; a skirt disposed on an outer surface of the inner portion, wherein a top surface of the skirt comprises one or more high portions and one or more low portions; an outer portion rotatably coupled with the outer surface of the inner portion, wherein a bottom surface of the outer portion comprises one or more protrusions and one or more recesses, and wherein the outer portion is disposed above the skirt along a vertical axis; and a head comprising an applicator surface and at least one aperture.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present invention relate to a metering device comprising a container and a metering cap for reliably dispensing a predetermined amount of contents from the container. Background Technology

[0002] Containers provide a hygienic and convenient way to dispense the contents contained within them. These containers are readily applicable to the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. In traditional storage containers, the amount of contents dispensed may not be the correct dosage. Therefore, the dispensed amount may not be suitable for the user's needs, leading to waste or misuse of the contents and an inconvenient user experience.

[0003] Containers used to dispense the precise amount of contents required for each dose may need to be custom-made and designed specifically for the contents, preventing the use of readily available stock containers. Furthermore, such custom-made containers are typically bulky and contain complex mechanisms. The manufacturing cost of such containers can be high, leading to increased final costs for the user.

[0004] Based on the above considerations, there is a great need for a quantitative feeding device for dispensing a predetermined amount of contents, which includes a quantitative feeding cap with a simple construction that can be operatively used with a storage container. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Various aspects of the present invention relate to a metering feeding device, comprising: a container having a top longitudinal end, a bottom longitudinal end, and sidewalls, the top longitudinal end providing an inlet to a cavity therein capable of containing contents; and a metering cap comprising: an inner portion disposed on the top longitudinal end of the container, wherein the inner portion includes an inner wall, an outer wall, and a bottom surface; a piston disposed within the inner wall of the inner portion, wherein the bottom of the piston is disposed on top of the bottom surface of the inner portion; a skirt disposed on the outer surface of the inner portion, wherein the top surface of the skirt includes one or more high portions and one or more low portions; an outer portion rotatably coupled to the outer surface of the inner portion, wherein the bottom surface of the outer portion includes one or more protrusions and one or more recesses, and wherein the outer portion is disposed above the skirt along a vertical axis; and a cap disposed on the top surface of the outer portion, the cap including an applicator surface and at least one hole, wherein the cap is operatively connected to the outer portion and the piston, and wherein the cap, the outer portion, and the piston constitute a movable member.

[0006] Various aspects of the invention relate to an outer portion comprising two protrusions and two recesses arranged in an alternating sequence around the outer portion. Various aspects of the invention also relate to a skirt comprising two high portions and two low portions arranged in an alternating sequence around the skirt.

[0007] Various aspects of the invention relate to an outer portion rotating from an initial position to an extended position and then back to the initial position during an operating cycle to dispense contents from a container, wherein the rotation of the outer portion from the initial position to the extended position constitutes a filling portion of the operating cycle, and the rotation of the outer portion from the extended position back to the initial position constitutes a dispensing portion of the operating cycle. Various aspects of the invention also relate to a complete operating cycle comprising rotating the outer portion 180° relative to a vertical axis, whereby a first 90° rotation of the operating cycle is a filling portion of the operating cycle, and a subsequent 90° rotation of the operating cycle is a dispensing portion of the operating cycle.

[0008] Various aspects of the invention relate to a situation in which, in an initial position, the high portion of the skirt is disposed within a recess in the outer portion, and a protrusion of the outer portion is disposed within a low portion of the skirt, such that the bottom surface of the outer portion is substantially flush with the top surface of the skirt in the initial position. Various aspects of the invention also relate to a situation in an extended position where the protrusion of the outer portion is disposed on the high portion of the skirt, and the recess of the outer portion is disposed on the low portion of the skirt, such that the outer portion extends upward from the initial position.

[0009] Various aspects of the invention relate to a filling portion of an operating cycle comprising a movable member moving upward in a vertical direction to create a volume accumulation chamber between a piston and the bottom surface of an internal portion, wherein the volume accumulation chamber is a vacuum, and wherein contents are drawn from a container into the volume accumulation chamber. Various aspects of the invention also relate to a dispensing portion of an operating cycle comprising a movable member moving downward in a vertical direction and a piston occupying the space of the volume accumulation chamber, whereby contents are pushed out or forced out of the volume accumulation chamber and dispensed through an orifice.

[0010] Various aspects of the present invention relate to a method for dispensing a consistent and predetermined dose of contents. Various aspects of the present invention also relate to dispensing between approximately 0.5 grams and approximately 5 grams of contents from a metering device in each operating cycle.

[0011] Various aspects of the present invention relate to a metering cap, comprising: an inner portion disposed on a cavity of a container, wherein contents can be contained within the cavity, and wherein the inner portion includes an inner wall, an outer wall, and a bottom surface; a piston disposed within the inner wall of the inner portion, wherein the bottom of the piston is disposed on top of the bottom surface of the inner portion; a skirt disposed on the outer surface of the inner portion, wherein the top surface of the skirt includes at least one high portion and at least one low portion; an outer portion rotatably connected to the outer surface of the inner portion, wherein the bottom surface of the outer portion includes at least one protrusion and at least one recess, and wherein the outer portion is disposed above the skirt along a vertical axis; and a head cap disposed on the top surface of the outer portion, the head cap including an applicator surface and at least one hole, wherein the head cap is operatively connected to the outer portion and the piston, and wherein the head cap, the outer portion, and the piston constitute a movable member. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the quantitative feeding device according to an embodiment;

[0013] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the metering cap according to an embodiment;

[0014] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the metering feeder in its initial position according to an embodiment;

[0015] Figures 4A-4D A perspective view of an exemplary operating cycle of a quantitative feeding device according to an embodiment is shown;

[0016] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the metering feeder in its initial position according to an embodiment;

[0017] Figures 6A-6D A cross-sectional view of an exemplary operating cycle of a quantitative feeding device according to an embodiment is shown;

[0018] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the metering cap according to the second embodiment;

[0019] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the metering feeder in its initial position according to the second embodiment; and

[0020] Figures 9A-9D A cross-sectional view of an exemplary operating cycle of a quantitative feeding device according to a second embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Figure 1-9D Based on engineering drawings used for developing and representing the metering feeder, and illustrating various embodiments of the invention. Therefore, the drawings are drawn to scale and represent the geometry of the metering feeder.

[0022] Figure 1-7 An exemplary novel metering device 10 according to an embodiment is shown. Aspects of the invention relate to a metering device 10 comprising a metering cap 100 and a container 200. Through each operating cycle, the metering cap 100 dispenses a predetermined and consistent amount of contents 127 from the container 200. This allows the user to conveniently use the correct dose of contents 127, preventing misuse and waste. The metering device 10 may also include an optional cap 300, which may be disposed on the metering cap 100 to protect the metering cap 100 from environmental factors and contamination.

[0023] Container 200 is typically a cylindrical member having a longitudinal axis and two ends, such that metering cap 100 is attached to the top longitudinal end 210 of container 200. Container 200 may be transparent or opaque. The top longitudinal end 210 of container 200 provides an inlet to a cavity defined by the sidewalls 230 and the bottom longitudinal end 220 of container 200. Contents 127 may be accommodated in the cavity. In one embodiment, container 200 may be a flexible tube. In another embodiment, the container may be rigid.

[0024] Figure 2 An exploded view of a metering cap 100 according to an embodiment is shown. The metering cap 100 includes a tubular inner portion 120 that can be secured to the top longitudinal end 210 of a container 200 to connect the metering cap 100 to the container 200. The inner portion 120 can be integrally or non-integrally connected to the top longitudinal end 210 of the container 200. If the inner portion 120 is integrally connected to the container 200, the inner portion 120 and the container 200 can be formed from a blow-molded material or injection-molded using methods known to those skilled in the art. If the inner portion 120 and the container 200 are non-integrally connected, they can be connected, for example, by screwing onto external or internal threads, a snap-fit, sized to provide a friction fit, or by any suitable means known in the art. In a preferred embodiment, the inner portion 120 is connected to the top longitudinal end 210 of the container 200 to create an airtight and / or moisture-proof seal. In one embodiment, the inner portion 120 can be compatible with standard stock containers to convert any container into the metering device 10.

[0025] The inner portion 120 also includes a wave-shaped skirt 110 disposed externally around the bottom 121 of the inner portion 120. In one embodiment, the skirt 110 is continuously disposed around the entire periphery of the bottom 121 of the outer surface 122 of the inner portion 120 and extends variably upward along a vertical axis. In one embodiment, the skirt 110 is integrally formed with the outer surface 122 of the inner portion 120, thereby constituting a single piece. In another embodiment, the skirt 110 is permanently attached to the outer surface 122 of the inner portion 120 by any means known in the art.

[0026] In one embodiment, the skirt 110 includes one or more high portions 111 and one or more low portions 112, wherein the high portions 111 extend higher along the vertical axis than the low portions 112 and have a greater height than the low portions 112. In a preferred embodiment, the skirt 110 includes two high portions 111 and two low portions 112 arranged in an alternating sequence around the skirt 110. In a preferred embodiment, the two high portions 111 are opposite each other, and the two low portions 112 are opposite each other. The top surface 113 of the skirt 110 provides a smooth and continuous transition between the high portions 111 and the low portions 112 surrounding the entire skirt 110.

[0027] The metering cap 100 also includes an outer portion 130 rotatably coupled to the inner portion 120. The outer portion 130 is externally mounted on the outer surface 122 of the inner portion 120 and is generally a rotatable cylindrical sleeve. In one embodiment, the outer portion 130 is rotatable about a vertical axis and is rotated by the user during an operating cycle to engage the metering cap 100, thereby dispensing contents from the container 200. The outer portion 130 is positioned above the skirt 110 along the vertical axis.

[0028] In one embodiment, the bottom surface 133 of the outer portion 130 may be wave-shaped. In one embodiment, the wave-shaped shape of the outer portion 130 corresponds to the wave-shaped shape of the skirt 110. The outer portion 130 includes one or more protrusions 131 and one or more recesses 132, wherein the length of the protrusions 131 starting from the top 135 of the outer portion 130 is greater than the length of the recesses 132. In a preferred embodiment, the bottom surface 133 of the outer portion 130 includes two protrusions 131 and two recesses 132 arranged in an alternating sequence around the outer portion 130. In a preferred embodiment, the two protrusions 131 are opposite each other, and the two recesses 132 are opposite each other around the outer portion 130. The bottom surface 133 of the outer portion 130 provides a smooth and continuous transition between the protrusions 131 and the recesses 132 around the entire outer portion 130. The outer portion 130 can rotate during the operation cycle, thereby moving the bottom surface 133 of the outer portion 130 along the top surface 113 of the skirt 110, so that the outer portion 130 moves vertically from the initial position to the extended position and back to the initial position during the operation cycle.

[0029] The metering cap 100 also includes a piston 150 and a cap 160. The piston 150 is disposed within the inner portion 120. In one embodiment, the piston 150 has a tubular top 151 and a rounded bottom 152. The cap 160 is disposed on the top 135 of the outer portion 130 and includes an applicator surface 161 with an aperture 162 from which contents 127 can be dispensed and applied directly to a desired area, or taken from a finger and applied to the desired area. In one embodiment, the applicator surface 161 is smooth and substantially flat. In another embodiment, the applicator surface 161 is textured. In one embodiment, the applicator surface 161 includes rounded protrusions. In another embodiment, the applicator surface 161 includes corrugations. In yet another embodiment, the applicator surface 161 is domed to prevent dispensed contents from re-entering the aperture 162. In one embodiment, the applicator surface 161 comprises or is made of a sponge material or an equivalent absorbent material to allow the contents 127 to be immersed in the applicator surface 161 and applied directly to the desired area.

[0030] The orifice 162 includes at least one opening disposed near the center of the applicator surface 161. In one embodiment, the orifice 162 may include more than one group of openings disposed near the center of the applicator surface 161 to allow them to diffuse during dispensing of contents. In one embodiment, the orifice 162 includes 3 to 8 openings.

[0031] In one embodiment, the piston 150, the head cover 160, and the outer portion 130 are connected and operatively coupled together. Specifically, the outer portion 130 is connected to the head cover 160, and the head cover 160 is connected to the piston 150. In one embodiment, the piston 150, the head cover 160, and the outer portion 130 move as a single unit during an operating cycle and constitute a movable member 400.

[0032] Lower valve 140a and upper valve 140b can be disposed in metering cap 100 to control the flow of contents 127 from container 200 into metering cap 100 and outlet orifice 162. Lower valve 140a and upper valve 140b independently alternate between open and closed positions throughout the operating cycle. In one embodiment, lower valve 140a and upper valve 140b can be one-way valves, two-way valves, or combinations thereof. Lower valve 140a and upper valve 140b can be of any suitable shape and size. In one embodiment, lower valve 140a and upper valve 140b can be triangular, spherical, inverted triangular, duckbill-shaped, or any combination thereof. Lower valve 140a is disposed between the top longitudinal end 210 of container 200 and internal portion 120, and upper valve 140b is disposed between piston 150 and cap 160. The lower valve 140a controls the contents to flow from the container 200 into the metering cap 100, and the upper valve 140b controls the contents to flow from the metering cap 100 through the hole 162 onto the applicator surface 160.

[0033] Figure 3 A perspective view of the metering feeder 10 in its initial position is shown. In the initial position, the protrusion 131 of the outer portion 130 is received in the lower portion 112 of the skirt 110, and the higher portion 111 of the skirt 110 is received in the recess 132 of the outer portion 130. In this arrangement, the bottom surface 133 of the outer portion 130 is substantially flush with the top surface 113 of the skirt 110, such that there is generally continuous contact between the surfaces surrounding the entire periphery of the metering feed cap 100, with little or no gap between the two surfaces. In the initial position, the contents are not being dispensed from the container 200, and the metering feed cap 100 is not engaged. In the initial position, both the top valve 140b and the bottom valve 140a are in the closed position.

[0034] Figures 4A to 4DA perspective view of an exemplary operating cycle of the metering feeder 10 is shown. To dispense contents from the container 200 via the metering cap 100, the user can rotate the outer portion 130 about a vertical axis from an initial position to an extended position and then back to the initial position, such that the bottom surface 133 of the outer portion 130 moves along the top surface 113 of the skirt 110. A complete operating cycle includes rotating the outer portion 130 180° relative to the vertical axis, whereby a first 90° rotation is the filling portion of the operating cycle, followed by a subsequent 90° rotation is the dispensing portion of the operating cycle.

[0035] During the filling phase, the outer portion 130 moves upward along the waveform of the top surface 113 of the skirt 110, and vertically moves upward from the initial position to the extended position. During the dispensing phase, the outer portion 130 moves downward along the waveform of the top surface 113 of the skirt 110, and moves downward from the extended position back to the initial position. A handle or textured portion 134 may be provided on the outer portion 130 to help the user grip and easily rotate the outer portion 130. Upon completion of the operation cycle, the contents can be dispensed from the container 200 and provided on the applicator surface 161 for use.

[0036] Figure 4A and 4B The filled portion of the operation loop is depicted. Figure 4A The first step of the operating cycle is shown, wherein the outer portion 130 rotates approximately 45° relative to the vertical axis from its initial position. During this rotation, as the bottom surface 133 of the outer portion 130 moves along the top surface 113 of the skirt 110, the outer portion 130 begins to move vertically upward from its initial position, such that the protrusion 131 of the outer portion 130 moves toward the top 111 of the skirt 110. Figure 4B The second step of the operating cycle is shown, in which the outer portion 130 is rotated approximately 45° relative to the vertical axis, for a total rotation of approximately 90° from the initial position. In this position, the protrusion 131 of the outer portion 130 is directly above the top 111 of the skirt 110, and the recess 132 of the outer portion 130 is directly above the lower portion 112 of the skirt 110, such that the outer portion 130 is in its highest position in the operating cycle and is in its extended position.

[0037] Figure 4C and 4D The allocation portion of the operation loop is shown. Figure 4C The third step of the operating cycle is shown, in which the outer portion 130 rotates approximately 45° relative to the vertical axis, for a total rotation of approximately 135° from the initial position. During this rotation, the outer portion 130 begins to descend as the bottom surface 133 of the outer portion 130 moves downward along the wave pattern of the top surface 113 of the skirt 110. Figure 4DThe fourth step of the operation cycle is shown, in which the outer portion 130 is rotated approximately 45° relative to the vertical axis, for a total rotation of 180° from the initial position. Upon completion of this rotation, the operation cycle is complete, and the outer portion 130 returns to its initial position. The protrusion 131 of the outer portion is located in the lower portion 112 of the skirt 110, and the higher portion 111 of the skirt 110 is located in the recess 132 of the outer portion 130.

[0038] In one embodiment, the entire operation cycle can be performed by the user in a single, smooth rotational motion. Multiple operation cycles can be performed immediately upon separation. In another embodiment, each step of the operation cycle can be distinct and are independent steps performed sequentially.

[0039] The inner portion 120 is fixed and does not move or rotate during the operating cycle. In one embodiment, the inner portion 120 may include at least one anti-rotation notch corresponding to at least one anti-rotation notch on the container 200. In a preferred embodiment, four anti-rotation notches may be provided on the inner portion 120, and four corresponding anti-rotation notches may be provided on the container 200. The anti-rotation notches of the container 200 and the anti-rotation notches of the inner portion 120 form a mechanical stop to prevent the inner portion 120 from rotating during operation of the metering cap.

[0040] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the metering feeder 10 in its initial position is shown. The internal portion 120 includes an outer wall 123, an inner wall 124, and a bottom surface 125. The inner wall 124 may be disposed within the outer wall 123. In one embodiment, there may be a gap between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 123. The bottom surface 125 of the internal portion 120 is a horizontal surface.

[0041] The metering cap 100 includes a flow conduit passing through it for contents to flow out of container 200 in a flow direction during an operating cycle. The flow conduit includes an inlet end and an outlet end, the inlet end allowing contents to flow from container 200 into metering cap 100, and the outlet end allowing contents to flow from metering cap 100 out of orifice 162 onto applicator surface 161.

[0042] The bottom surface 125 of the internal portion 120 includes a bottom opening 128, which forms the inlet end of a flow conduit and allows contents to flow upward from the container 200. A bottom valve 104a is disposed on the bottom opening 128 and alternates between an open and closed position to control the flow of contents 127 during an operating cycle. The bottom valve 140a may also include a flange portion disposed on either side of the bottom valve 140a. When the metering feeder 10 is in the initial position, the bottom valve 140a is in the closed position.

[0043] A piston 150 is disposed within the inner wall 124 of the inner portion 120, such that the bottom 152 of the piston 150 is positioned above the bottom surface 125 of the inner portion 120. In one embodiment, the piston forms an hermetically sealed seal with the inner wall 124 of the inner portion 120. In the initial position, there is little or no space between the piston 150 and the bottom surface 125 of the inner portion 120. The piston 150 includes a top opening 129, which constitutes the outlet end of a flow conduit. A top valve 140b is disposed on the top opening and alternates between an open and closed position to control the outflow of contents from the metering cap 100 during an operating cycle. The top valve 140b may also include a flange portion disposed on either side of the top valve 140b. When the metering device 10 is in the initial position, the top valve 140b is in the closed position.

[0044] Figures 6A to 6D A cross-sectional view of an exemplary operating cycle of the quantitative feeding device 10 is shown. Figure 6A and 6B The filling portion of the operating cycle is shown. During the filling portion of the operating cycle, as the outer portion 130 rotates during the first and second steps of the operating cycle, the movable member 400 moves upward in the vertical direction. As part of the movable member, the upward movement of the piston 150 creates a volumetric accumulation chamber 126 between the bottom 152 of the piston 150 and the bottom surface 125 of the inner portion 120. The volumetric accumulation chamber 126 is a vacuum. The movement of the piston causes the contents 127 to flow from the container 200 into the volumetric accumulation chamber 126 via the bottom opening 128. As the outer portion 130 rotates during the operating cycle, the size of the volumetric accumulation chamber 126 increases relative to the vertical movement of the piston 150.

[0045] The increase in the size of the accumulation chamber 126 creates a low-pressure area within it, causing the bottom valve 140a to move to the open position, allowing the contents contained in the container 200 to be drawn into the accumulation chamber 126 through the bottom opening 128. The top valve 140b remains in the closed position during the filling portion of the operating cycle. At the end of the filling portion of the operating cycle, the outer portion 130 is in the extended position, and the accumulation chamber 126 is at its maximum capacity and completely filled with the contents 127. As the pressure in the container 200 and the accumulation chamber 126 reach equilibrium, the bottom valve 140a moves to the closed position.

[0046] The dimensions of the accumulation chamber 126 and the amount of contents 127 that can be contained within the accumulation chamber 126 correspond to the amount of contents 127 required for a single dose. The dimensions of the accumulation chamber 126 are determined by its height and diameter, both of which can be independently modified or controlled to adjust the amount of contents 127 to be dispensed. The height of the accumulation chamber 126 can be controlled by the vertical movement of the piston 150, and the diameter of the accumulation chamber 126 can be controlled by the outer wall 123 and inner wall 124 of the internal portion 120, as well as the arrangement and spacing of the piston 150. This allows the metering cap 100 to be customized to fit any container 200 and dispense any amount of contents 127 that may be required.

[0047] Figure 6C and 6D A cross-sectional view of the dispensing portion of the operating cycle is shown. Due to the increased pressure in the volumetric accumulation chamber 126, the bottom valve 140a remains in the closed position, while the top valve 140b is in the open position. During the dispensing portion, as the outer portion 130 continues to rotate in the third and fourth steps of the operating cycle, the movable member descends and reduces its height in the vertical direction. As part of the movable member 400, the downward movement of the piston 150 reduces the size of the volumetric accumulation chamber 126, and as the piston 150 occupies the space of the volumetric accumulation chamber 126 and returns to its initial position, the pressure exerted by the piston 150 on the contents 127 forces the contents 127 contained in the volumetric accumulation chamber 126 out of the top opening 129 and the orifice 162.

[0048] At the end of the dispensing portion of the operating cycle, the accumulation chamber 126 returns to its original size, and all contents 127 drawn from the container 200 into the accumulation chamber 126 during the filling portion have been dispensed through the orifice 162 and are ready for use on the applicator surface 161. At the end of the operating cycle, both the top valve 140b and the bottom valve 140a are in the closed position, and the metering cap 200 returns to its initial position and is ready for another operating cycle. The dispensed contents 127 are ready for use by the user on the applicator surface 161 and can be applied to the desired area using a finger or by directly applying the contents 127 to the desired area using the applicator surface 161 as an applicator.

[0049] During each operating cycle, the amount of contents 127 dispensed is the same because the volume accumulation chamber 126 increases by the same amount, and a consistent amount of contents 127 fills the volume accumulation chamber 126. Therefore, through each operating cycle, a predetermined, reliable, and consistent dose of contents 127 can be dispensed from the metering cap 100 to the user. This prevents waste of contents 127 and allows the user to receive an appropriate dose of contents 127. In one embodiment, the amount of contents 127 dispensed is between about 0.5 grams and about 5 grams. In another embodiment, the amount of contents 127 dispensed is between about 1 gram and about 3 grams. In a preferred embodiment, the amount of contents 127 dispensed is about 2 grams. The amount of contents 127 is not limited and can be modified by adjusting the height and diameter of the volume accumulation chamber 126 to suit a specific amount of contents contained in the container 200.

[0050] The metering cap 100 is compatible with any container 200, thereby transforming any container 200 into a metering device 10 with the ability to meter appropriate and predetermined amounts of contents from the container 200. This allows inventory containers to be equipped with the metering cap 100 according to various aspects of the invention to provide a cost-effective, rapid, and easily adaptable solution.

[0051] The metering device 10 may include an tamper-proof mechanism to prevent tampering with the contents 127 and to maintain the security and effectiveness of the contents 127 contained in the container 200. The tamper-proof mechanism may be a tamper-proof band connecting the outer portion 130 and the inner portion 120, or the outer portion 130 and the skirt 110, such that any rotation of the outer portion 130 engaging the metering cap 100 will cause the tamper-proof band to break. The broken tamper-proof band can serve as visible evidence to the user that the contents 127 may have been tampered with and / or previously accessed. In one embodiment, two tamper-proof bands may be provided on opposite sides of the metering cap 100. The outer portion 130 cannot rotate without breaking either or both tamper-proof bands.

[0052] Figure 7-9D A metering feeder 50 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown, which includes a container 200 and a metering feed cap 500. The external functions, operating cycle and user interaction of the metering feeder 50 according to the second embodiment are substantially the same as those of the metering feeder 10 described above.

[0053] Figure 7An exploded view of a metering cap 500 according to a second embodiment is shown. The metering cap 500 includes an inner portion 520, a skirt 510, an outer portion 530, a head cap 560, a bottom valve 540a, a top valve 540b, a gasket 550, and a retainer 570. The construction and operation of the inner portion 520, skirt 510, outer portion 530, and head cap 560 are substantially similar in function and appearance to the metering cap 100 described above.

[0054] In one embodiment, the bottom valve 540a and the top valve 540b may be spherical. In another embodiment, the bottom valve 540a and the top valve 540b may be made of steel, glass, plastic, or a combination thereof. The bottom valve 540a and the top valve 540b may alternate between an open position and a closed position to control the flow of contents during an operating cycle.

[0055] In one embodiment, the washer 550 may be annular. The washer 550 may be made of rubber, steel, glass, plastic, or a combination thereof. The washer 550 and the retainer 570 are connected to the head cover 560, which is connected to the outer portion 530. The outer portion 530, the head cover 560, the washer 550, and the retainer 570 are all operatively connected and constitute a movable member.

[0056] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the metering device 50 in its initial position according to the second embodiment is shown. A gasket 550 is disposed around the metering cap 500. A volume accumulation chamber 526 is formed between the bottom surface 525 of the inner portion 520 and the retainer 570. Since the gasket 550 is located outside the volume accumulation chamber 526, it does not come into contact with the contents 527 that may be drawn into the volume accumulation chamber 526 from the container. Therefore, since the gasket does not affect the stability or other properties of the contents 527, there is greater flexibility in the materials that can be used for the gasket 550. The gasket 550 forms an airtight seal around the metering cap 500, creating a vacuum in the volume accumulation chamber 526 so that the contents 527 are drawn upward from the container 200 into the volume accumulation chamber 526 during operating cycles as the outer portion 530 rotates.

[0057] The top valve 540b is held in the retainer 570. In the initial position, the bottom of the retainer 570 is positioned on top of the bottom valve 540a to hold the bottom valve 540a in the proper position on the bottom opening 528. The top valve 540b and the bottom valve 540a can be a check valve, a two-way valve, or a combination thereof. The top valve 540b and the bottom valve 540a are in the closed position in the initial position.

[0058] Figures 9A to 9D A cross-sectional view of the operation cycle of the quantitative feeding device 50 according to the second embodiment is shown. Figure 9A and 9BA cross-sectional view of the filling section of the operating cycle according to the second embodiment is shown. During the filling section, as the outer section 530 rotates, the movable member moves upward in the vertical direction. As part of the movable member, the upward movement of the retainer 570 creates a volume accumulation chamber 526 and allows the bottom valve 540a to move from the bottom opening 528 and be in the open position, so that the contents 527 can be drawn upward into the volume accumulation chamber 526. The top valve 540b remains in the closed position.

[0059] Figure 9C and 9D A cross-sectional view of the dispensing portion of the operating cycle according to the second embodiment is shown. The top valve 540b is in the open position. During the dispensing portion of the operating cycle, the movable member descends and reduces its height in the vertical direction. As part of the movable member, the downward movement of the holder 570 reduces the size of the volumetric accumulation chamber 526, and the contents 527 contained in the volumetric accumulation chamber 526 are forced out of the top opening 529 and the orifice. At the end of the dispensing portion of the operating cycle, the volumetric accumulation chamber 526 returns to its original size, and all contents 527 drawn into the volumetric accumulation chamber 526 from the container 200 during the filling portion have been dispensed. Both the top valve 540b and the bottom valve 540a are in the closed position, and the metering feeder 50 returns to its initial position.

[0060] In embodiments of the invention, contents 127, 527 can be in various forms and are selected from gels, emulsions, creams, oils, lotions, ointments, and powders. In one embodiment, the contents can be viscous. In one embodiment, the contents can have a viscosity between about 1.5 Pa·s and about 4 Pa·s. In a preferred embodiment, the contents can have a viscosity between about 1.8 Pa·s and about 3.3 Pa·s. In one embodiment, contents 127, 527 contained in container 200 are creams or gels containing diclofenac sodium. In a preferred embodiment, contents 127, 527 contained in container 200 are a combination of diclofenac sodium, ammonia, carbomer homopolymer type C, cocoyl octanoate / decanoate, isopropanol, mineral oil, polyoxyethylene 20 cetearyl alcohol ether, propylene glycol, and water.

[0061] Although the invention has been explained with respect to its preferred embodiments, it should be understood that many other possible modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A quantitative feeding device, comprising: A container having a top longitudinal end, a bottom longitudinal end, and sidewalls, the top longitudinal end providing an inlet to a cavity therein capable of holding contents; and The metering feed cap includes: An internal portion disposed at the top longitudinal end of a container, wherein the internal portion includes an inner wall, an outer wall, and a bottom surface; A piston disposed within the inner wall of the inner portion, wherein the bottom of the piston is disposed on the top of the bottom surface of the inner portion; A skirt is disposed on the outer surface of the inner portion, wherein the top surface of the skirt includes one or more high portions and one or more low portions; An outer portion rotatably connected to the outer surface of an inner portion, wherein the bottom surface of the outer portion includes one or more protrusions and one or more recesses, and wherein the outer portion is disposed above the skirt along a vertical axis; and A head cover disposed on the top surface of the outer portion, the head cover including an applicator surface and at least one hole, wherein the head cover is operatively connected to the outer portion and the piston, and wherein the head cover, the outer portion, and the piston constitute a movable member. The outer portion rotates from an initial position to an extended position and then back to the initial position during the operation cycle to dispense contents from the container, wherein the rotation of the outer portion from the initial position to the extended position constitutes a filling portion of the operation cycle, and the rotation of the outer portion from the extended position back to the initial position constitutes a dispensing portion of the operation cycle. In the initial position, the higher portion of the skirt is positioned within the recess of the outer portion, and the protrusion of the outer portion is positioned within the lower portion of the skirt, such that the bottom surface of the outer portion is substantially flush with the top surface of the skirt; and In the extended position, the protrusion of the outer portion is provided on the high part of the skirt, and the concave part of the outer portion is provided on the low part of the skirt, so that the outer portion extends upward from the initial position.

2. The quantitative feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, The outer portion includes two protrusions and two recesses arranged in an alternating sequence around the outer portion.

3. The quantitative feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, The skirt comprises two high sections and two low sections arranged in an alternating sequence around the skirt.

4. The quantitative feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, A complete operating cycle includes rotating the outer portion 180° relative to the vertical axis, whereby a first 90° rotation is the filling portion of the operating cycle, and a subsequent 90° rotation is the distributing portion of the operating cycle.

5. The quantitative feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, During the filling portion of the operating cycle, the movable member moves upward in the vertical direction, thereby creating a volume accumulation chamber between the piston and the bottom surface of the inner portion, wherein the volume accumulation chamber is a vacuum, and wherein the contents are drawn from the container into the volume accumulation chamber.

6. The quantitative feeding device according to claim 5, wherein, During the dispensing portion of the operating cycle, the movable member moves downward in the vertical direction, and the piston occupies the space of the volume accumulation chamber, thereby forcing the contents out of the volume accumulation chamber and dispensing them out of the orifice.

7. The quantitative feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, In each operating cycle, 0.5 grams to 5 grams of contents are dispensed from the metering device.

8. A metering cap, comprising: An internal portion disposed on the cavity of a container, wherein contents can be contained within the cavity, and wherein the internal portion includes an inner wall, an outer wall, and a bottom surface; A piston disposed within the inner wall of the inner portion, wherein the bottom of the piston is disposed on the top of the bottom surface of the inner portion; A skirt portion disposed on the outer surface of an inner portion, wherein the top surface of the skirt portion includes at least one high portion and at least one low portion; An outer portion rotatably connected to the outer surface of an inner portion, wherein the bottom surface of the outer portion includes at least one protrusion and at least one recess, and wherein the outer portion is disposed above the skirt along a vertical axis; as well as A head cover disposed on the top surface of the outer portion, the head cover including an applicator surface and at least one hole, wherein the head cover is operatively connected to the outer portion and the piston, and wherein the head cover, the outer portion, and the piston constitute a movable member. In the initial position, the high part of the skirt is disposed in the recess of the outer part, and the protrusion of the outer part is disposed in the low part of the skirt, so that the bottom surface of the outer part is substantially flush with the top surface of the skirt. and In the extended position, the protrusion of the outer portion is provided on the high part of the skirt, and the concave part of the outer portion is provided on the low part of the skirt, so that the outer portion extends upward from the initial position.

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