System and method for storing and dispensing flowable material

Abstract

A system for applying flowable material to a surface includes an applicator and a storage pod. The storage pod can have a housing and a lid that interengage to form an interior cavity that contains flowable material. The applicator receives the storage pod and has a pusher mechanism to apply a force to the housing to collapse the housing. As the housing collapses, the flowable material is expelled from the storage pod. The applicator can be a reusable applicator that the storage pod can be used and reloaded with, or a single use disposable applicator.

Description

[0001] Interactive reference for related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 113,065, filed November 12, 2020. The entire contents of the above application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Various aspects of the present invention relate to a system and method for storing and dispensing flowable materials, and more particularly, to a storage chamber for storing flowable materials and an applicator for dispensing flowable materials from the storage chamber. Background Technology

[0004] For cleaning and / or disinfecting and / or scenting toilets, an applicator containing a flowable material can be used. The flowable material can be a gel or viscous gel, and a clump of it can be applied directly to the inner surface of the toilet bowl from a suitable applicator, allowing the substance to adhere to it. Even after contact with flushing water, this substance may remain on the inner surface of the toilet bowl and is typically only completely flushed away after a full flush. This substance is also suitable for other surfaces such as urinals, washbasins or industrial sinks, showers, bathtubs, dishwashers, etc.

[0005] Given the disclosure and detailed description of certain embodiments below, specific objects and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art, that is, those with knowledge or experience in this art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention relates to a system or apparatus for accurately applying a flowable material to a surface. In one application, the system may include an applicator and a disposable container fixed in the applicator. The system can be used to apply a fixed amount of a cleaning, disinfecting, and / or fragrance-enhancing viscous gel to toilets, urinals, bathtubs, showers, or any other hard surface. However, it is also conceivable to apply the gel to any surface requiring cleaning.

[0007] One aspect of the invention relates to a storage compartment for storing a flowable material, the storage compartment comprising: a shell having an upper portion and a flange extending around the periphery of the shell; a lid attached to the shell defining an internal volume, wherein the lid includes an inner layer with an orifice and a removable outer layer covering a portion of the inner layer when present; and a flowable material disposed within the internal volume. The flowable material may be a cleaning gel. The amount of cleaning gel within the internal volume may be between 5 grams and 10 grams. The lid may be attached to the flange. The upper portion of the shell may be dome-shaped. The height of the storage compartment, measured from the top of the lid and the shell, may be less than the radius of the dome-shaped upper portion. The upper portion may be dome-shaped, and the flange may form a plane. Furthermore, the angle formed at the intersection of the flange and the upper portion may be greater than 90 degrees. When the outer layer of the lid is removed, the orifice of the inner layer and the flowable material are exposed. The orifice may be formed by a single opening. The shell of the storage compartment may be formed of an aluminum alloy.

[0008] Other aspects of the invention relate to a system for dispensing a flowable material onto a surface, the system comprising: (a) a storage compartment for storing the flowable material; and (b) an applicator. The storage compartment may include: a housing including an upper portion and a flange extending around a periphery of the housing; a lid attached to the housing defining an internal volume, wherein the lid includes an inner layer with orifices and a removable outer layer covering a portion of the inner layer when present; and the flowable material disposed within the internal volume. The applicator may include: (a) a base having a substrate; a receiver located on the substrate for securing the storage compartment; and a support member extending from the substrate, the support member being configured to contact a surface receiving the flowable material, wherein the support member positions the substrate at a fixed distance from the surface; and a pusher mechanism configured to contact the upper portion of the housing. The storage compartment functions such that the upper portion of the housing is configured to collapse upon receiving a force applied by a user through the pusher mechanism. When the upper portion collapses, the flowable material is expelled through the orifices of the storage compartment. The upper portion of the housing of the storage compartment may be dome-shaped. The receiver of the applicator may be a cylindrical wall extending from the base, wherein the pusher mechanism is slidably engaged with the cylindrical wall. The pusher mechanism may have a first end configured to contact the storage compartment, a second end opposite the first end, and a pusher body extending between the first and second ends. The first end of the pusher mechanism may include a dome-shaped end substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the storage compartment. The width of the dome-shaped end may be less than the width of the pusher body. A stepped portion may extend between the dome-shaped end and the pusher body, wherein the stepped portion includes vertical steps extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pusher body. The applicator may also include a biasing member to provide a return force to the pusher mechanism after the application of the flowable material. The support member may be a plurality of legs extending from the base plate. Furthermore, the support member may also be a member extending around the perimeter of the base. In one example, the guide member and the base are formed as a single integral member. In some examples, the applicator may include a pair of arms foldably engaged with the substrate, wherein each of the pair of arms folds toward each other and each arm has an inner surface, collectively forming the pusher mechanism. The substrate and the pair of arms may be formed as a single integral component. Each pair of arms also includes a handle portion arranged substantially perpendicular to the substrate.

[0009] Other aspects of the invention relate to a method of dispensing a flowable material onto a surface, the method comprising the steps of: (1) providing a storage chamber, wherein the storage chamber comprises: a housing having a dome-shaped portion and a flange extending around a periphery of the dome-shaped portion; and a lid attached to the housing defining an internal volume, wherein the lid may include an inner layer having an orifice and a removable outer layer covering a portion of the inner layer when present; (2) removing the outer layer of the storage chamber; (c) placing the storage chamber on a receiver of an applicator, wherein the flange is received within the receiver and the dome-shaped portion of the housing extends upward from the receiver; (d) placing a support member of the applicator on the surface receiving the flowable material; and (e) applying force to a pusher mechanism of the applicator, wherein the force presses the pusher mechanism onto the dome-shaped portion, causing the dome-shaped portion to collapse, wherein as the dome-shaped portion collapses, the flowable material is extruded through the orifice.

[0010] An additional aspect of the invention relates to a system for dispensing a flowable material onto a surface, the system being usable once or multiple times, the system comprising a storage compartment for storing the flowable material, the storage compartment comprising: (a) a housing including an upper portion and a flange extending around a periphery of the housing; (b) a lid attached to the housing defining an internal volume, wherein the lid includes an inner layer with an orifice; and (c) a flowable material disposed within the internal volume; and an applicator comprising: (a) a base having a substrate; and a receiver located on the substrate for securing the storage compartment; and a support member extending from the substrate, the support member being configured to contact a surface receiving the flowable material, wherein the support member positions the substrate at a fixed distance from the surface; and (b) a pusher configured to contact the upper portion of the housing, wherein the upper portion of the housing is configured to collapse upon receiving a force applied by a user via the pusher, and when the upper portion collapses, the flowable material is extruded through the orifice. The applicator may further include a guide member comprising a guide opening for receiving the pusher, wherein the pusher extends through the guide opening. In one example, the guide member and the base are formed as a single integral component. The guide member may engage the base along the perimeter of the base. The pusher may include a pusher body that is plate-shaped and has a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. In some examples, the pusher may include ribs extending along the front surface of the pusher body and may also include a dome-shaped end with a stepped region.

[0011] Another example may include a system for dispensing a flowable material onto a surface. The system may include a storage compartment for storing the flowable material, the storage compartment having a housing including an upper portion and a flange extending around the periphery of the housing. A lid may be attached to the housing, defining an internal volume. The lid may include an inner layer with orifices and a removable outer layer that, when present, covers a portion of the inner layer. The flowable material may be placed within the internal volume. An applicator may include a base having a receiver, and the receiver may be used to hold the storage compartment. The receiver may define a first side defining a first opening, and a second side defining a second opening. The applicator may be configured to receive the storage compartment on either the first or second side. A pusher mechanism may be configured to contact the upper portion of the housing. The upper portion of the housing may be configured to collapse upon receiving a force applied by a user through the pusher mechanism, and when the upper portion collapses, the flowable material may be extruded through the orifices. The upper portion may be dome-shaped. The receiver may include a wall extending from the base, and the actuator mechanism may be slidably engaged with the wall. The actuator mechanism may have a first end contacting the storage compartment and a second end opposite the first end. The wall may include a guide opening for receiving the actuator mechanism. The base and the wall may be formed as a single integral component. The actuator mechanism may include ribs, and the ribs may be configured to be received by guides of a corresponding shape located on the base. The first end of the actuator mechanism may include a dome-shaped end end substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the storage compartment. The width of the dome-shaped end end may be less than the width of the actuator body. The support member may include a plurality of legs extending from the base. The base may include a plate configured to support the storage compartment, and the plate may be flush with the lower portion of the first opening. Alternatively, the plate may be flush with the lower portion of the second opening. The second side may define a lip, and the lip may be configured to secure the storage compartment within the receiver when a user applies force through the actuator mechanism. The first side of the receiver may also include a lip, which is configured to hold the storage compartment within the receiver when the user applies force through the pusher mechanism.

[0012] These and other features and advantages disclosed herein will be further understood from the detailed disclosure of certain embodiments below, the accompanying drawings, and the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The above and other features and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0014] Figure 1A A perspective view of an exemplary storage compartment for dispensing flowable materials according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0015] Figure 1B A bottom perspective view of an alternative exemplary storage compartment for dispensing flowable materials according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0016] Figure 2 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 1A A 3D view of the storage compartment after the cover has been removed;

[0017] Figure 3 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 1A A side view of an exemplary storage compartment;

[0018] Figure 4 A side view of an alternative exemplary storage compartment according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0019] Figure 5 A flowable material is shown being dispensed from an exemplary storage compartment according to the aspects described herein;

[0020] Figure 6A A bottom view of an exemplary storage compartment with its cover removed, according to the aspects described herein, is shown.

[0021] Figure 6B This illustrates aspects according to the present article. Figure 6A A three-dimensional diagram of the flowable material during the deployment of the storage compartment;

[0022] Figure 6C A bottom view of a layer of an alternative exemplary storage compartment with its cover removed, according to the aspects described herein;

[0023] Figure 6D This illustrates aspects according to the present article. Figure 6C A three-dimensional diagram of the flowable material during the deployment of the storage compartment;

[0024] Figure 7A A bottom view of a layer of an alternative exemplary storage compartment with its cover removed, according to the aspects described herein;

[0025] Figure 7B This illustrates aspects according to the present article. Figure 7A A three-dimensional diagram of the flowable material during the deployment of the storage compartment;

[0026] Figure 8A A bottom view of a layer of an alternative exemplary storage compartment with its cover removed, according to the aspects described herein;

[0027] Figure 8B This illustrates aspects according to the present article. Figure 8A A three-dimensional diagram of the flowable material during the deployment of the storage compartment;

[0028] Figure 8C A bottom view of an alternative exemplary storage compartment according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0029] Figure 9A A side view is shown of an exemplary applicator system discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage chamber in a position prior to discharging the flowable material, according to the aspects described herein;

[0030] Figure 9B A side view is shown of an exemplary applicator system discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage chamber in a position after the flowable material has been discharged, according to the aspects described herein.

[0031] Figure 10A The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 9A An enlarged side view of an exemplary applicator system having an alternative pusher, wherein a portion of the applicator has been removed for clarity;

[0032] Figure 10B The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 10A An enlarged side view of the exemplary applicator system shown, wherein a portion of the applicator has been removed for clarity;

[0033] Figure 11 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 9A An enlarged side view of a portion of an exemplary pusher of an exemplary applicator;

[0034] Figure 12 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 9A An enlarged side view of a portion of an alternative exemplary pusher to an exemplary applicator;

[0035] Figure 13 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 9A A cross-sectional side view of an alternative exemplary applicator system;

[0036] Figure 14 A perspective view is shown of another exemplary applicator system discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage chamber in a position prior to discharging the flowable material, according to the aspects described herein;

[0037] Figure 15 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 14 Side view of an exemplary applicator system;

[0038] Figure 16A perspective view is shown of another exemplary applicator system discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage chamber in a position prior to discharging the flowable material, according to the aspects described herein;

[0039] Figure 17 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 16 Side view of an exemplary applicator system;

[0040] Figure 18 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 16 An exploded perspective view of an exemplary applicator system;

[0041] Figure 19 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 16 A perspective view of an exemplary applicator system before discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment;

[0042] Figure 20 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 16 A perspective view of an exemplary applicator system after discharging flowable material;

[0043] Figure 21 A perspective view is shown of another exemplary applicator discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage chamber according to the aspects described herein;

[0044] Figure 22A It is shown that, according to the aspects described herein, it has Figure 21 A side view of an exemplary applicator system before discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment;

[0045] Figure 22B The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 22A A perspective view of an exemplary applicator system before discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment;

[0046] Figure 23 The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 22A A perspective view of an exemplary applicator system prior to discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment onto the surface of a toilet bowl;

[0047] Figure 24 A perspective view is shown of another exemplary applicator discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage chamber according to the aspects described herein;

[0048] Figure 25 It is shown that, according to the aspects described herein, it has Figure 24 A perspective view of an exemplary applicator system before discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment;

[0049] Figure 26A perspective view is shown of another exemplary applicator discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage chamber according to the aspects described herein;

[0050] Figure 27 It is shown that, according to the aspects described herein, it has Figure 26 A perspective view of an exemplary applicator system before discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment;

[0051] Figure 28 A perspective view is shown of another exemplary applicator discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage chamber according to the aspects described herein;

[0052] Figure 29 It is shown that, according to the aspects described herein, it has Figure 28 A perspective view of an exemplary applicator system before discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment;

[0053] Figures 30A to 30F The following is illustrated from the aspects described herein. Figure 22A The process by which an exemplary applicator system discharges flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment;

[0054] Figure 31A and Figure 31B A perspective view of another exemplary applicator for discharging flowable material according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0055] Figure 31C The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 31A and Figure 31B A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of an exemplary applicator;

[0056] Figure 32A and Figure 32B A perspective view of another exemplary applicator for discharging flowable material according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0057] Figure 32C The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 32A and Figure 32B A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of an exemplary applicator;

[0058] Figure 33A and Figure 33B A perspective view of another exemplary applicator for discharging flowable material according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0059] Figure 33C The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 33A and Figure 33B A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of an exemplary applicator;

[0060] Figure 34A and Figure 34B A perspective view of another exemplary applicator for discharging flowable material according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0061] Figure 34C The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 34A and Figure 34B A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of an exemplary applicator;

[0062] Figure 35A and Figure 35B A perspective view of another exemplary applicator for discharging flowable material according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0063] Figure 35C The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 35A and Figure 35B A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of an exemplary applicator;

[0064] Figure 36A and Figure 36B A perspective view of another exemplary applicator for discharging flowable material according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0065] Figure 37A and Figure 37B A perspective view of another exemplary applicator for discharging flowable material according to the aspects described herein is shown;

[0066] Figure 37C The following are examples of the uses of the aspects described herein. Figure 37A A three-dimensional view of the applicator's pouch;

[0067] Figure 37D The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 37A and Figure 37B A three-dimensional diagram of the applicator;

[0068] Figure 37E The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 37A An exemplary applicator in a perspective view before dispensing flowable material onto a target surface;

[0069] Figure 37F The aspects described herein are shown. Figure 37A A three-dimensional view of an exemplary applicator discharging flowable material onto a target surface;

[0070] Figure 38A A perspective view is shown of another exemplary applicator discharging flowable material from an exemplary storage compartment according to the aspects described herein;

[0071] Figure 38B It shows Figure 38A A front view of an exemplary applicator;

[0072] Figure 38C It shows Figure 38A Another perspective view of an exemplary applicator;

[0073] Figure 39A It shows from Figure 38A , Figure 38B as well as Figure 38C A top-view perspective view of the flowable material being dispensed by an exemplary applicator; and

[0074] Figure 39B It shows from Figure 38A , Figure 38B as well as Figure 38C A side perspective perspective view of the flowable material being dispensed by an exemplary applicator.

[0075] The accompanying drawings mentioned above are not necessarily drawn to scale and should be understood as providing only representations of specific embodiments, and are essentially conceptual and illustrative of the principles involved. For ease of explanation and understanding, some features of the applicator depicted in the drawings have been enlarged or distorted relative to other features. The same reference numerals are used in the drawings to denote similar or identical parts and features in various alternative embodiments. The applicators and storage compartments for flowable materials disclosed herein have configurations and components determined in part by the intended application and the environment in which they are used. Detailed Implementation

[0076] In general, the present invention relates to a storage chamber for containing and dispensing a flowable material, wherein the flowable material is dispensed from the storage chamber using an applicator that applies force to the shell of the storage chamber on one side, causing the storage chamber to collapse. As the storage chamber collapses, the flowable material is compressed from the other side of the storage chamber onto a designated surface. When the flowable material contacts the designated surface, it can diffuse radially in a uniform pattern to form dollops of material on the surface.

[0077] As used herein, the term "substantially" means largely or almost entirely within the constraints of reasonable commercial engineering objectives, costs, manufacturing tolerances, and capabilities in the field of applicators and storage containers for flowable materials. Similarly, the term "approximately" as used herein means close to or approximately to a specific value within the constraints of reasonable commercial engineering objectives, costs, manufacturing tolerances, and capabilities in the field of applicators and storage containers for flowable materials.

[0078] Figures 1A to 2An exemplary storage chamber 100 for storing a flowable material 50 is shown. The exemplary storage chamber 100 has an upper end 102 and a lower end 104 opposite to the upper end 102, wherein the flowable material 50 can be discharged from the lower end 104 of the storage chamber 100. The storage chamber 100 may include a housing 108 having an upper portion 110 extending from the upper end 102 of the storage chamber 100 near the lower end 104. A flange 112 extends from the lower end of the upper portion 110 near the lower end 104 of the storage chamber 100 around its perimeter. A lid 120 may be attached to the housing 108 to define an internal cavity for holding the flowable material 50. The lid 120 may be secured to the flange 112 of the storage chamber 100. The lid 120 may include an outer layer 122 and an inner layer 124, wherein the inner layer has one or more orifices 126 that allow the flowable material 50 to exit the storage chamber 100 when a discharge force is applied to the housing 108. Figures 1A to 2 As shown in the example, the upper portion 110 of the housing 108 may be dome-shaped or hemispherical, with a flange 112 positioned around the upper portion 110. The flange 112 may be circular and extend from the upper portion 110 around its perimeter. In other examples, the upper portion 110 of the housing 108 may have any shape that can form an internal cavity with the cover 120, such as conical, cylindrical, cuboid, frusto-conical, or other shapes known to those skilled in the art.

[0079] Before the flowable material 50 can be dispensed, the cover 120 can provide a seal for the storage compartment 100 and a watertight storage container for the flowable material 50. The outer layer 122 of the cover 120 can be removable, such that when the outer layer 122 is removed, the opening 126 and the flowable material 50 are exposed. By removing the removable layer 122, the flowable material 50 can be dispensed. The removable layer 122 can cover at least a portion of the inner layer 124 to help retain the flowable material 50 within the storage compartment 100. Figure 1B As shown, the removable layer 122 may have tabs or gripping members 123 to allow a user to easily grasp and remove the outer layer 122. The outer layer 122 can be attached to the inner layer 124 and / or flange 112 using an adhesive, and the outer layer 122 may be formed of a polymeric material (such as vinyl). When the outer layer 122 of the cover 120 is removed, the opening 126 and the flowable material 50 are exposed, such as... Figure 2 As shown. Figure 1A As shown, the outer layer 122 may cover the entire inner layer 124, or alternatively, it may cover only a certain area of ​​the inner layer 124, the size of which is sufficient to cover one or more openings 126.

[0080] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the upper portion 110 of the housing 108 can be dome-shaped or hemispherical. The height H of the storage compartment 100 can be measured as the vertical distance from the lower end 104 of the storage compartment 100 to the upper end 102 of the storage compartment 100 at the top of the upper portion 110 of the housing 108. In some examples, the flange 112 can form a plane intersecting with the upper portion 110. In the illustrated example, the radius R of the dome-shaped upper portion can be greater than or equal to the height H of the storage compartment 100. Furthermore, the height H can be in the range of 0.55 inches to 0.65 inches, and the overall width of the storage compartment 100, measured by the flange width, can be in the range of 1.40 inches to 1.70 inches. Figure 4 As shown, by making the height H of the upper part less than the radius R, an angle 114 greater than 90 degrees (i.e., an obtuse angle) can be formed at the intersection of the flange 112 and the upper part 110 to help minimize the crushing force required to cause the upper part 110 of the shell 108 to collapse and to expel the flowable material 50 from the storage compartment 100, such as Figure 5 As shown. The force required to collapse the upper portion 110 of the storage compartment 100 and expel the flowable material 50 can be approximately 10 pounds, or in the range of 8 to 12 pounds, or in the range of 6 to 14 pounds. This relationship, where the radius R is greater than the height H of the storage compartment 100, can also help maximize the expulsion of the flowable material 50. For example, the angle 114 can be in the range of 91 to 189 degrees. Other methods are also envisioned to help minimize crushing forces, such as the upper portion 110 having a locally thinner wall thickness near the flange 112 compared to other areas of the housing 108, and / or the housing 108 having recesses or other features to cause stress concentration, thereby creating repeatable crushing zones. The storage compartment 100 may also have a longitudinal axis 140 extending through the center of the cover 120 of the storage compartment 100 and extending substantially perpendicular to the flange 112.

[0081] The components of the storage compartment 100 can be formed in various ways. For example, the housing 108, including the upper portion 110, flange 112, and lid 120, can be formed from a metallic material (such as aluminum alloy). In some cases, by forming the components with a metallic material and the housing 108 and lid 120 with the same material, the storage compartment 100 can be easily recycled after the flowable material 50 has been dispensed. In some examples, the housing 108 may have an upper portion 110 formed from an aluminum sheet with a thickness of approximately 0.003 inches or in the range of 0.002 inches to 0.005 inches, and formed into a suitable housing shape. The housing 108 may be formed from an aluminum sheet as a single integral component. The flange 112 can help increase rigidity and provide a location to hold the storage compartment 100 during filling and assembly. The lid 120 can be attached and sealed to the flange 112 by heating or pressing operations, such that the lid 120 can have a rolled edge at the attachment point to the flange 112. Alternatively, the components of the storage compartment 100 may be formed of polymer materials (such as polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, or a mixture of metal and polymer materials).

[0082] As described above, the shape of the orifice 126 allows the gel cluster 60 to form in a shape that mimics the orifice 126 as the flowable material 50 exits the storage chamber 100. In some examples, such as Figure 7A and Figure 8A As shown, orifice 126 can be a single opening, or in other examples, such as Figure 6A and Figure 6C As shown, one or more orifices 126 can be multiple openings. The shape of the orifices 126 allows the clump 60 to form a desired shape, such as a rectangle, circle, ellipse, or polygon with an even or odd number of sides. For example, Figure 6A and Figure 6C The aperture 126 shown has multiple openings, wherein the multiple teardrop-shaped openings are arranged in a circular pattern around the central region on the inner layer 124. Figure 6A The central region of the arrangement shown may be without an opening, so as to form a gap 62 in the central region of the clump 60A, such as Figure 6B As shown. The voids 62 in the clump 60A can hold water to prevent the flowable material 50 from drying out. Or, Figure 6C The central area of ​​the arrangement shown may have an opening to form the central cluster area of ​​cluster 60B, such as... Figure 6D As shown. As another example, Figure 7A The aperture 126 shown is generally star-shaped, forming... Figure 7B The star-shaped clusters 60C of the flowable material 50 shown are illustrated. As yet another example, Figure 8AThe aperture 126 shown is generally flower-shaped, having a central opening and multiple arc-shaped openings extending from the central opening, forming... Figure 8B The flowable material 50 shown is a flower-shaped clump 60D. In addition to controlling the shape of the clump, the shape of the orifice 126 also helps to increase the total amount of gel emptied from the storage chamber 100. In some examples, when collapsed by a pusher, as described below, the storage chamber 100 collapses, with at least 80% or at least 90% of the gel emptied from the storage chamber 100. The diameter of the clump 60 can range from 1.3 inches to 1.8 inches.

[0083] Alternatively, the storage compartment 100 may have a single-layer lid 120, such that once the lid 120 is removed, the flowable material 50 is exposed and discharged when the upper portion 110 is crushed. In this configuration, the flowable material 50 may not be discharged in a predetermined shape. Alternatively, the storage compartment 100 may have a single-layer lid 120, wherein the lid 120 has a predetermined perforation shape 127, or a predetermined area with reduced thickness compared to other areas on the lid 120, such that when a crushing force is applied to the upper portion 110, the increased pressure can cause the predetermined perforation shape (or the reduced-thickness area) to tear or open in a controlled manner to discharge the flowable material 50 in a clump with a predetermined shape. The predetermined perforation shape 127 may be formed using laser scribing or other methods.

[0084] The flowable material 50 can be a gel or a viscous gel. The flowable material 50 can be a cleaning gel. The gel can be used to clean and / or disinfect and / or fragrance when disposed of in the toilet. U.S. Patent No. 6,667,286 discloses an exemplary viscous gel, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The gel can be of different colors and in different amounts for cleaning, disinfecting, and / or fragrance purposes. For example, the storage compartment 100 may include one or more dividers within the upper portion 110 to form different chambers within the storage compartment 100, such that each chamber can contain the different gels discussed above. The dividers may also include weak points, such as thinner sections, different materials, notches, cuts, etc., so that the dividers can also be crushed when the gel is applied. The storage compartment 100 may contain a single dose or amount of cleaning gel within its internal cavities. For example, in some examples, the storage compartment 100 may contain approximately 6.5 grams of flowable material, or flowable material 50 in the range of 5 to 10 grams.

[0085] Figures 9A to 13System 10 is shown, which uses an exemplary applicator 200 to discharge flowable material 50 from a storage chamber 100 onto a surface or substrate. The applicator 200 can be reused multiple times to apply to one storage chamber 100 at a time and may include a base 210 configured to receive the storage chamber 100 and a pusher mechanism 230 slidably engaged with the base 210 and configured to transmit crushing force to the storage chamber 100. The base 210 may have a first end 212 that can contact the surface receiving the flowable material 50 and a second end 214 opposite the first end 212. The base 210 may include a substrate 216 adjacent to the first end 212, a receiver 218 positioned near the first end 202, a receiver 218 configured to secure the storage chamber 100 to the substrate 216, and a support member 220 extending from the substrate 216 to the first end 202. The substrate 216 may include an opening to allow flowable material 50 discharged from the storage chamber 100 to flow onto the desired surface. The support member 220 can be configured to contact the surface 15 that receives the flowable material 50.

[0086] The actuator component 230 can be detached from the base 210 to allow the storage compartment 100 to be inserted into the base 210. The actuator component 230 may be a piston and has a first end 232, a second end 234 opposite to the first end 232, and an actuator body 236 extending between the first end 232 and the second end 234. The first end 232 of the actuator component 230 may have a dome-shaped end 237 configured to contact and apply pressure to the storage compartment 100. The actuator component 230 may also have a gripping portion 240 at the second end 234, which is wider than the actuator body 236, to provide an area for a user to grip the actuator 230 and apply force to the storage compartment 100. Optionally, the gripping portion 240 can act as a stop for the pusher mechanism 230, such that the gripping portion 240 contacts the base 210 to prevent the pusher mechanism 230 from moving further downward and further crushing the storage compartment 100. When the storage compartment 100 is crushed, the pusher 230 can travel a predetermined distance equal to the height of the storage compartment 100. The pusher mechanism 230 can have a longitudinal axis 238, which can be substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis 140 of the storage compartment 100. In other examples, it is conceivable that the pusher mechanism 230 is arranged at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis of the storage compartment 100 in the range of 1 degree to 60 degrees.

[0087] Once the storage compartment 100 is loaded and secured in the base 210, the thruster component 230 can be lowered so that its first end 232 contacts the storage compartment 100, bringing the system 10 into the loading position. Figure 9AAs shown. When the user applies appropriate crushing force, the pusher mechanism 230 applies the crushing force in the normal direction to the top or peak of the upper portion 110 of the housing 108, causing the housing 108 to collapse. As the upper portion 110 collapses, it moves, pushing the flowable material 50 through the orifice 126 and the opening located in the substrate 216 to form clumps 60 on the surface, such as... Figure 9B As shown. As discussed above, the clump 60 has a predetermined shape, depending on the shape and size of the orifice 126. In some examples, such as Figure 13 As shown, the applicator 200 may also include a biasing member 250, or a spring, connected between the pusher mechanism 230 and the base 210. The biasing member 250 may provide a return force to the pusher mechanism 230 after the flowable material 50 has been applied, causing the pusher mechanism 230 to move away from the substrate 216 and allowing the collapsed storage compartment 100 to be easily removed from the applicator 200. In this example, the gripping portion 240 of the pusher mechanism 230 may have a flange 248 extending downward on the outer surface of the base 210. The flange 248 may have a receiver 252 for securing the biasing member 250 between the gripping portion 240 and the base 210. The biasing member 250 may apply a return force to the base 210, positioning the pusher mechanism 230 in place to remove the used storage compartment 100 or install an unused storage compartment 100.

[0088] The base 210 may have a receiver 218 extending from the substrate 216 to a second end 214 of the base 210. The receiver 218 may have a tubular body with cylindrical walls extending from the substrate 216, such that the pusher mechanism 230 can slidably engage with the tubular body of the receiver 218. The base 210 may have an opening at the second end 214 for receiving the pusher mechanism 230. In some examples, the base 210 may include a window 222 within the receiver 218. The window 222 allows a user to visually see the storage compartment 100 being crushed and also allows the user to load unused storage compartments 100 into the receiver 218 and remove used storage compartments 100 from the base. The window 222 may have, for example, […]. Figure 9A and Figure 9BThe shape shown is generally rectangular, or it can have any shape. However, window 222 is optional, and it is also conceivable to use a completely opaque tubular shape. Furthermore, support member 220 can position base 210 at a predetermined distance from surface 15 to allow the clump 60 to form properly. In some examples, support member 220 can be a plurality of legs extending downward from substrate 216 to a first end 212 of substrate 216. The plurality of legs can be equidistantly spaced around the perimeter of base 210 at the first end 212, and each leg can extend outward and downward from substrate 216, such that support member 220 has an outer surface that is spaced outward from the perimeter of substrate 216, such that the effective width of support member 220 is greater than the width of base 210. Alternatively, support member 220 can be a single member extending around the perimeter of base 210 at the first end 212. When the support member 220 is a single member, this single member can be a horn-shaped member extending outward and downward from the substrate 216, wherein the width of this single member is greater than the width of the substrate 216.

[0089] As described above, the first end of the pusher component 230 may have a dome-shaped end 237 or a hemispherical end to help improve the efficiency of applying the flowable material 50 to the substrate. The dome shape of the end 237 helps to discharge at least 80%, or in some examples, at least 90% of the flowable material 50 through the orifice 126, while also applying central pressure to allow the flowable material 50 to spread and adhere firmly to the substrate. When the flowable material 50 has successfully adhered to the substrate, pulling the pusher component 230 away will prevent the gel 50 from sticking to the pusher component 230. Figure 10B As shown, the dome-shaped end 237 allows the inner layer 124 to deflect to match the curvature of the end 237. The shaped end 237 of the pusher 230 helps ensure that the maximum amount of gel 50 is discharged from the storage chamber 100. In some examples, such as Figure 11 As shown, the width of the dome-shaped end 237 can be the same as that of the actuator body 236. Alternatively, as... Figure 10A and Figure 12As shown, the width of the dome-shaped end 237 may be smaller than the width of the actuator body 236 to form a stepped portion 242 adjacent to the dome-shaped end 237. The stepped portion 242 may extend between the dome-shaped end 237 and the actuator body 236, and may include a vertical step 244 extending in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 238 of the actuator component 230 and a tapered surface 246 extending from the edge of the vertical step 244 to the actuator body 236. This stepped portion 242 may provide a groove 243 at the periphery of the dome-shaped end 237 of the actuator 230 within the base 210 to receive a portion of the upper portion 110 of the storage chamber 100 when the actuator 230 collapses the upper portion 110 to discharge the flowable material 50, as shown. Figure 10B As shown. The dome-shaped end 237 helps prevent any accumulation of the flowable material 50 within the groove 243 when it is applied to the substrate. The radius of the dome-shaped end 237 can be greater than the width of the actuator body 236. Furthermore, the width of the dome-shaped end 237 can be approximately 92% of the width of the actuator body 236, or in the range of 80% to 95% of the width of the actuator body 236. The height of the stepped portion 242 can be greater than the height of the dome-shaped end 237, wherein the height Hd of the dome-shaped end 237 is defined by the vertical distance from the peak of the dome-shaped end 237 to the edge of the dome-shaped end 237, and the height Hs of the stepped portion 242 is defined by the vertical distance from the edge of the dome-shaped end 237 to the edge where the stepped portion 242 intersects with the actuator body 236. In some examples, the ratio of the height Hs of the stepped portion 242 to the height Hd of the dome-shaped end 237 may be 1.8:1.0, or in the range of 2.0:1.0 to 1.5:1.0. Alternatively, the first end 232 of the actuator component 230 may have an end with a different shape, such as a conical end, a flat end, a multifaceted pyramidal end, a bell-shaped end, or other geometries.

[0090] Figures 14 to 15Another exemplary system 20 is shown for dispensing flowable material 50 from a storage compartment 100 using a single-use applicator 300. The applicator 300 may include a base 310 for holding the storage compartment 100. The base 310 may include a substrate 312, a receiver 314 for securing the storage compartment 100 to the base 310, and a support member or plurality of support members 316 extending from the substrate 312 to position the substrate 312 at a predetermined distance from a surface 15 receiving the flowable material 50. The base 310 may also include a pusher mechanism 330 capable of transmitting force from a user to cause the housing 108 of the storage compartment 100 to collapse and displace the flowable material 50 from the storage compartment 100. The base 310 may include a pair of arms 322A, 322B foldably engaged with the substrate 312. Each arm 322A, 322B may engage with the substrate 312 on opposite sides of the substrate 312. The first arm 322A can rotate along the fold line 324A toward the second arm 322B on a first side of the substrate 312, while the second arm 322B can rotate along the fold line 324B toward the first arm 322A. Each arm 322A, 322B can have similar sizes such that each of the arms 322A, 322B has an inner surface region 326 that contacts a portion of the upper portion 110 of the storage compartment 100 when the arms 322A, 322B are folded toward each other. Furthermore, each arm 322A, 322B may also have a handle portion 328 extending from the fold line 332 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the substrate 312. The fold line 332 may be spaced a predetermined distance from the fold line 324. In some examples, the handle portion 328 may have corresponding features that engage the handle portion 328A of the arm 322A with the handle portion 328B of the arm 322B. The engaging handle portions 328A, 328B can provide a grip 334 to allow a user to grasp the grip 334 and apply appropriate crushing force at the inner surface region 326 of each arm portion 322A, 322B, causing the housing 108 to collapse and pushing the flowable material 50 through the orifice 126 and the opening 318 located within the base 310. The extruded flowable material 50 then forms clumps 60 on the surface, wherein the clumps 60 have a predetermined shape depending on the shape and size of the orifice 126 described above. In some examples, the receiver 314 may be a recess within the substrate 312 to receive the storage chamber 100, or in other examples, the receiver 314 may be a protrusion extending from the substrate 312 to secure the storage chamber 100 in the applicator 300. Furthermore, the base 310 may also have an opening on the substrate 312 through which the flowable material 50 can pass when discharged from the storage chamber 100.

[0091] The applicator 300 can be disposable, such that the base 310 can be formed such that the base plate 312, arms 322A, 322B, support member 316, and handle portion 328 are formed as a single integral component. The applicator 300 may include a pre-installed storage compartment 100, so that the system 20 can be used by the user simply by removing the outer layer 122. The base 310 can be formed of a paper-based material, such as, but not limited to, cardboard or molded pulp. Alternatively, the base 310 can be formed of a polymeric material (such as a thermoformed polymer).

[0092] In operation, to dispense the flowable material 50, the outer layer 122 of the cover 120 can be removed from the storage chamber 100. Next, the storage chamber 100 can be secured in the receiver of the applicator, with the flange 112 contacting the substrate of the applicator and the upper portion 110 extending upwards away from the substrate. A support member can then be placed on the surface receiving the flowable material 50 to position the substrate at a predetermined distance from the surface. The user can then apply force to the applicator's pusher mechanism, which presses the pusher mechanism against the upper portion 110 of the housing 108, causing the storage chamber 100 to collapse. As the storage chamber 100 collapses, the flowable material 50 is extruded through the orifice 126.

[0093] Although the single-use system 20 discussed above utilizes an applicator 300 formed as an integral component, Figures 16 to 30F Alternative examples of applicators that can be used in dispenser system 30 are shown. Dispenser system 30 may be a single-use dispenser system in which the applicator and the dispensed (i.e., collapsed) storage compartment are discarded after a single use, or dispenser system 30 may be a multi-use system with an applicator that allows the dispensed (i.e., collapsed) storage compartment to be removed after use and unused storage compartment 100 to be installed in the applicator. The applicator has a separately formed pusher that slidably engages with a guide member to cause the storage compartment to collapse and discharge flowable material onto a desired substrate. In these examples, system 30 may include an applicator for dispensing flowable material from the storage compartment. As described above, the pusher may receive force from a user to cause the storage compartment to collapse, thereby discharging flowable material from the storage compartment. As described herein, system 30 may include, as will be described below and in relation to exemplary applicators 400A-400E. Figures 16 to 20 , Figures 21 to 23 , Figures 24 to 25 , Figures 26 to 27 as well as Figures 28 to 29 One or a combination of the plurality of illustrated arrangements shown herein. Each of the exemplary applicators 400A-400E, which will be described below, operates in a similar manner, wherein the pusher and guide member are slidably engaged to apply force to the storage chamber 100 fixed within the receiver of the applicator to discharge the flowable material 50 onto the substrate. Figures 16 to 30F Similar reference numerals are used to describe similar or identical parts and features shown in the various examples. Therefore, the following will refer to... Figures 16 to 20 Some features of the applicators 400B-400E described in the description of applicator 400A may be described in less detail, or may be omitted, because the description herein applies to similar or identical parts and features.

[0094] exist Figures 16 to 20 In this device, the applicator 400A may include a base 410A for holding the storage chamber 100. The base 410A may include a substrate 412A, an opening 413A extending through the substrate 412A, a receiver 414A for securing the storage chamber 100 to the base 410A, and one or more support members 416A extending downward from the substrate 412A to position the substrate 412A at a predetermined distance from a target surface for receiving the flowable material 50. In some examples, the receiver 414A may include a lip 417A extending upward from the substrate 412A, the lip 417A generally conforming to the peripheral shape of the storage chamber 100, but slightly larger, to allow the storage chamber 100 to slide within the receiver. The lip 417A may be a continuous lip, as shown in the illustrated example, or the lip 417A may be intermittent, with gaps or openings at its periphery. These gaps can help conserve the amount of material used in the applicator 400A. The guide member 420A may be releasably or permanently connected to the base 410A, wherein the guide member 420A includes a body member 422A that serves as a retainer to hold the storage compartment 100 within the applicator 400A, an engagement member 424A connected to the base plate 412A, and a guide opening 426A for receiving and guiding the movement of the actuator 430A. In some examples, the guide member 420A may be integrally formed with the base 410A as a single member. The body member 422A may have a dome-shaped portion, the radius of which may be larger than that of the storage compartment 100, so that a user can place the storage compartment 100 within the body member 422A. The actuator 430A may be a piston and has a first end 432A, a second end 434A opposite to the first end 432A, and an actuator body 436A extending between the first end 432A and the second end 434A. The first end 432A of the pusher 430A may have a dome-shaped end 438A at the first end 432A, the dome-shaped end 438A being configured to contact and apply pressure to the storage chamber 100. The pusher 430A may also have a gripping portion 440A at or near the second end 434A. The gripping portion 440A provides an area for a user to grasp the pusher 430A and apply force to the storage chamber 100, thereby discharging the flowable material 50.

[0095] The actuator body 436A may have a generally plate-like shape with a rectangular cross-section. The actuator body 436A may include a front surface 442A, a rear surface 444A opposite to the front surface 442A, a pair of side ribs 448A, and an opening 450A extending through the front surface 442A and the rear surface 444A. The thickness of the side ribs 448A may be greater than most of the width of the actuator body 436A (i.e., the distance from the front surface 442A to the rear surface 444A). The ribs 448A may provide additional stiffness to the actuator 430A to ensure that it can transmit forces applied by the user to cause the storage compartment 100 to collapse. The guide opening 426A may extend through the guide member 420A and may have a shape that generally corresponds to the cross-sectional profile of the actuator body 436A, but is slightly larger, to allow for a sliding fit between the actuator body 436A and the guide opening 426A. In this example, the guide opening 426A may have a narrow central region and a wider end region so that the side rib 448A can slide through the guide opening 426A.

[0096] like Figure 18 As shown, system 30 can be assembled into a single unit to provide an applicator for system 30, which can be used as a single-use applicator or reloaded by the user for multiple uses over a period of time. System 30 can be assembled by installing storage compartment 100 into receiver 414A of base 410A. Next, pusher 430A can be installed into guide member 420A by inserting pusher 430A into guide opening 426A. Second end 434A can be inserted into guide opening 426A first, wherein first end 432A or a portion of pusher body 436A near first end 432A can act as a stop to help secure pusher 430A. After pusher 430A is installed into guide member 420A, engagement member 424A of guide member 420A is engaged (i.e., releasably or permanently) to base 410A. For example, engagement member 424A can be attached to base 410A using snap-fit ​​connection, adhesive, threaded connection or other connection methods. Once the guide member 420A is attached to the base 410A, the system 30 is ready for use.

[0097] Figures 21 to 23Another exemplary system 30 is shown, which includes an applicator 400B having a base 410B. The base 410B includes a substrate 412B, an opening 413B extending through the substrate 412B, a receiver 414B for securing a storage compartment 100, a guide member 420B, and a pusher 430B received in the guide opening 426B. The pusher body 436B may have a substantially plate-like shape and has a front surface 442B, a rear surface 444B opposite to the front surface 442B, and a peripheral surface 446B extending between the front surface 442B and the rear surface 444B. A support rib 448B may extend from a first end 432B (i.e., the dome-shaped end 438B) of the pusher body 436B along each of the front surface 442B and the rear surface 444B toward a second end 434B. The length of each support rib 448B may be at least 40% of the length of the pusher body 436B (i.e., the distance between the first end 432B and the second end 434B), or in some examples, the length of each support rib 448B may be at least 50% of the length of the pusher body 436B. Each rib 448B may be substantially centered on the front surface 442B and the rear surface 444B, and its width near the first end 432B may be greater than its width near the end of the rib 448B. This difference in width of the rib 448B may be due to a tapered width or a stepped width, such that the width of each side of the step is different. The gripping portion 440B may have an arc-shaped upper portion.

[0098] The guide member 420B may include a central support member 428B positioned below the dome-shaped portion of the guide member body 422B. The central support member 428B helps stabilize and support the actuator 430B as it moves along the guide opening 426B. The guide opening 426B may generally correspond in shape to the cross-sectional profile of the actuator body 436B, but be slightly larger to allow for a sliding fit between the actuator body 436B and the guide opening 426B. In this example, the guide opening 426B may have a wider central region and a narrower end region to allow the rib 448B to slide through the opening. The dome-shaped end 438B of the actuator 430B may be a smooth surface with a curved, arcuate outer edge. Alternatively, the dome-shaped end 438B may have a textured surface or a stepped portion, similar to the dome-shaped ends of other actuators described herein. Figure 23 An applicator 400B is shown that, when in use, discharges a flowable material from the storage compartment 100 onto the inner surface 15 of the toilet.

[0099] Figure 24 and Figure 25An exemplary system 30 is shown, comprising an applicator 400C having a base 410C including a substrate 412C, an opening 413C extending through the substrate 412C, a retainer 414C for securing a storage compartment 100, a guide member 420C, and a pusher 430C received into the guide opening 426C. The pusher body 436C may have a substantially plate-like shape and has a front surface 442C, a rear surface 444C opposite the front surface 442C, a pair of side ribs 448C arranged along each side of the pusher body 436C, and an opening 450C extending through the front surface 442C and the rear surface 444C. The thickness of the side ribs 448C may be greater than most of the thickness of the pusher body 436C (i.e., the distance from the front surface 442C to the rear surface 444C). Guide member 420C may include a central support member 428C above and below the dome-shaped portion of guide member body 422C. The width of the central support member 428C above the dome-shaped portion may be substantially the same as the width of the front surface 442C and the rear surface 444C. Guide opening 426C may extend through the central support member 428C and may have a shape that generally corresponds to the cross-sectional profile of the actuator body 436C, but is slightly larger, to allow a sliding fit between the actuator body 436C and the guide opening 426C. In this example, guide opening 426C may have a wider end region and a narrower central region to allow the side rib 448C to slide over guide opening 426C. While the dome-shaped end 438C of actuator 430C may be any dome-shaped end described herein, Figure 24 and Figure 25 A dome-shaped end 438C with a textured end is shown, wherein the textured end includes multiple ribs or grooves.

[0100] Figure 26 and Figure 27Another exemplary system 30 is shown, comprising an applicator 400D having a base 412D410D. The base 412D includes a substrate 410D, an opening 413D extending through the substrate 412D, a retainer 414D for securing the storage compartment 100, a guide member 420D, and a pusher 430D received in a guide opening 426D. The pusher body 436D may have a substantially plate-like shape and have a front surface 442D, a rear surface 444D opposite to the front surface 442D, and a pair of side ribs 448D. The thickness of the side ribs 448D may be greater than the thickness of most of the pusher body 436D (i.e., the distance from the front surface 442D to the rear surface 444D). The guide member 420D may include a central support member 428D above and below the dome-shaped portion of the guide member body 422D. The width of the central support member 428D above the dome-shaped portion may be greater than the entire width of the actuator body 436D (i.e., the distance from the outer surface of the first side rib 448D to the outer surface of the second side rib 448D). The guide opening 426D may extend through the central support member 428D and may have a shape generally corresponding to, but slightly larger than, the cross-sectional profile of the actuator body 436D to allow a sliding fit between the actuator body 436D and the guide opening 426D. In this example, the guide opening 426D may have a wider end region and a narrower central region to allow the side ribs 448D to slide through the opening. While the dome-shaped end 438D of the actuator 430D may be any dome-shaped end described herein, Figure 26 and Figure 27 The dome-shaped end portion 438D with a stepped portion 439D is shown.

[0101] Figure 28 and Figure 29An exemplary system 30 is shown, comprising an applicator having a base 410E, the base 410E including a substrate 412E, an opening 413E extending through the substrate 412E, a retainer 414E for securing a storage compartment 100, a guide member 420E, and a pusher 430E received into the guide opening 426E. The pusher body 436E may have a front surface 442E, a rear surface 444E opposite to the front surface 442E, an arcuate grip portion 440E, a pair of ribs 448E disposed on each of the front surface 442E and the rear surface 444E, and an opening 450E extending through the front surface 442E and the rear surface 444E. Each pair of ribs 448E may be spaced apart from each other on the front surface 442E and the rear surface 444E. The pair of ribs 448E may be arranged opposite each other. Guide member 420E may include a central support member 428E below the dome-shaped portion of guide member body 422E. The width of the central support member 428E below the dome-shaped portion includes rib 448E, but is less than the entire width of the actuator body 436E. Guide opening 426E may extend through the central support member 428E and may have a shape generally corresponding to, but slightly larger than, the cross-sectional profile of the actuator body 436E to allow a sliding fit between the actuator body 436E and the guide opening 426E. In this example, guide opening 426E may have a narrow central region and wider regions near the ends to allow rib 448D to slide across guide opening 426E, then narrow again near the end regions. While the dome-shaped end 438E of actuator 430E may be any dome-shaped end described herein, Figure 28 and Figure 29 The dome-shaped end portion 438E with a stepped portion 439E is shown.

[0102] Figures 30A to 30F A system 30 with an applicator 400B for dispensing flowable material 50 is shown. As described above, the system 30 may include a storage compartment 100 fixed in a receiver 414B of the applicator 400B. Although not shown in the figure, the outer layer 122 of the cover 120 may be removed before placing the applicator 400A onto the target surface. Figure 30A As shown, the applicator 400B can be placed on the target surface, with a plurality of support members 416B abutting against the target surface. Figures 30B to 30D This illustrates how the upper part 110 of the storage compartment 100 collapses under the pressure of the pusher 430B when the user applies a downward force to it. (As shown) Figure 30C As shown, when the upper part 110 of the storage compartment 100 begins to collapse, the flowable material 50 is discharged through the orifice between the substrate 412B and the target surface. Figure 30DThe upper part 110 of the storage compartment 100 is shown to be completely crushed by the pusher 430B and the flowable material 50 is discharged, forming a clump 60. Figure 30E The illustration shows a user pulling upwards on the pusher 430B, causing the rear of the pusher 430B to contact the guide member 420B, which helps to pull the applicator 400B away from the collapsed storage compartment 100 and surface 15. Figure 30F The image shows a clump 60 of flowable material 50 formed after the applicator 400B is removed. The flowable material 50 can now be used to disinfect and clean surfaces as designed.

[0103] The applicator 400A-E can be disposable, such that its corresponding base 410A-E, guide member 420A-E, and pusher 430A-E can be formed of a paper-based material, such as, but not limited to, cardboard or molded pulp, or it can be formed of a polymeric material (such as a thermoformed polymer). As described above, the applicator 400A-E can be assembled to include a storage compartment 100, such that the system 30 is available to the user simply by removing the outer layer 122. Furthermore, the applicator 400A-E can also be constructed from any of the material options described above with respect to the previously described applicators 200, 300.

[0104] Although the single-use system 20 discussed above utilizes an applicator 200 formed as an integral component that causes the storage compartment 100 to collapse, Figures 31A to 33C Alternative examples of single-use applicators are shown, wherein each applicator 500A-500C may include a storage area to contain flowable material. The flowable material can be discharged onto a desired substrate through an orifice in the lower member of the applicator. In these examples, system 40 may include a single-use applicator for dispensing flowable material 50 from a storage area within the applicator. As described herein, system 40 may include, as will be described below and in relation to the exemplary applicators 500A-500C. Figures 31A to 31C , Figures 32A to 32C as well as Figures 33A to 33C One or a combination of the plurality of illustrated arrangements shown. Each of the exemplary applicators 500A-500C of the system 40, which will be described below, can be similarly operated with a handle to cause the upper member of the cavity or storage area to collapse, and as the upper member collapses, the flowable material will be discharged through an orifice in the lower surface of the applicator. Figures 31A to 33C Similar reference numerals are used to describe similar or identical parts and features shown in the various examples. Therefore, the following will refer to... Figures 31A to 31C Some features of the applicators 500B and 500C described in the description of applicator 500A may be described in less detail, or may be omitted, since the description herein applies to similar or identical parts and features.

[0105] Figures 31A to 31C An exemplary applicator 500A is shown. The applicator 500A may include an elongated handle 510A attached to an upper member 512A. The upper member 512A is connected to a lower member or substrate 514A to form a storage cavity 516A. As previously described herein, the storage cavity 516 may be configured to receive a flowable material 50. Furthermore, the applicator 500A may also include a support member 518A extending downward from the upper member 512A below the substrate 514A to position the substrate 514A at a predetermined distance from a target surface receiving the flowable material 50. The upper member 512A may have a dome-shaped portion similar to the storage chamber 100 discussed above. The substrate 514A may have an aperture 520A, the shape of which is similar to any of the shapes described above regarding the aperture 126 of the storage chamber 100. When the handle 510A is pushed downward, the upper component 512A can be configured to collapse and discharge the flowable material through the orifice 520A.

[0106] The applicator 500A can be formed from an injection-molded polymer material (such as polypropylene (PP) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE)) with different wall thicknesses in the handle 510A, upper member 512A, substrate 514A, or support member 518A to achieve desired performance requirements, such as ensuring the desired collapse of the upper member to allow proper discharge of flowable material through the orifice 520A. The handle 510A, upper member 512A, and support member 518A can be formed as a single integral component, while the substrate 514A can be formed separately and then welded or snapped into place after the flowable material is added. In some examples, the applicator 500A can have a vacuum-formed upper member 512A, substrate 514A, and support member 518A, while the handle 510A is formed as a single piece and subsequently attached to the upper member 512A.

[0107] Figures 32A to 32CAn exemplary applicator 500B is shown, which may have a structure generally similar to that of applicator 500A. Applicator 500B may include an elongated handle 510B attached to an upper member 512B, which is connected to a lower member or substrate 514B to form a storage cavity 516B. As previously described herein, storage cavity 516B may be configured to receive flowable material 50. Furthermore, applicator 500B may also include a support member 518B extending downward from the upper member 512B below the substrate 514B to position the substrate 514B at a predetermined distance from a target surface receiving the flowable material 50. Upper member 512B may have a dome-shaped portion similar to that of the storage chamber 100 discussed above. Substrate 514B may have an aperture 520B, the shape of which is similar to any of the shapes described above regarding aperture 126 of storage chamber 100. When the handle 510B is pushed downward, the upper component 512B can be configured to collapse and discharge the flowable material through the orifice 520B.

[0108] The applicator 500B may have an upper member 512B formed of a thin metal sheet similar to the metal sheet used to form the storage compartment 100, while the support member 518B and the substrate 514B may be formed together of thicker metal sheets. The upper member 512B may be permanently joined to the support member 518B and the substrate 514B by welding or other methods. The support member 518B and the substrate 514B may be formed together as a single component. The handle 510B may be formed of molded pulp and joined to the upper member by adhesive or other permanent methods.

[0109] Figures 33A to 33C An exemplary applicator 500C is shown, which may have a multi-layered structure for an upper member 512C to help control the collapse of the upper member 512C. The applicator 500C may include an elongated handle 510C attached to the upper member 512C, which is connected to a lower member or substrate 514C to form a storage cavity 516C. As previously described herein, the storage cavity 516C may be configured to receive flowable material 50. Furthermore, the applicator 500C may also include a support member 518C extending downward from the upper member 512C below the substrate 514C to position the substrate 514C at a predetermined distance from a target surface receiving the flowable material 50. The upper member 512C may have portions with a multi-layered shape similar to the storage compartment 100 discussed above. The substrate 514C may have an aperture 520C, the shape of which is similar to any of the shapes described above regarding the aperture 126 of the storage compartment 100. When the handle 510C is pushed downwards, the upper component 512C can be configured to collapse in stages and discharge flowable material through the orifice 520C. Multi-layered structures may be more resilient when the handle is pushed away from the center or pushed at an angle.

[0110] The applicator 500C may have a handle 510C, an upper member 512C, and a support member 518C, which are formed as a single integral component from a metallic material (such as aluminum). This integral component may be formed as an extrusion. A substrate 514C may be formed from a metallic material (such as aluminum) and may be permanently joined (i.e., welded, for example) to the upper member 512C to form a cavity 516C.

[0111] Figures 34A to 34C An exemplary applicator 600 is shown, which may have a pulp-based structure that collapses to discharge flowable material from a storage chamber 100 mounted in the applicator 600. The applicator 600 may include an elongated handle 610 attached to the outer surface 611 of an upper member 612. The upper member 612 may have a convex plunger portion 613 extending from an inner surface 614. The upper member 612 may have a dome-shaped portion 615 and may also include a substantially vertically oriented portion 616 extending from the dome-shaped portion to a support member 618. The upper member 612 may have an internal cavity 617 for receiving the storage chamber 100. The storage chamber 100 may be bonded to a shelf 620 located between the upper member 612 and the support member 618. The upper portion 110 of the storage chamber 100 may be adjacent to the plunger portion 613. The support member 618 may extend below the shelf 620 to position the cover 120 of the storage compartment 100 at a predetermined distance from the target surface for receiving the flowable material. The handle 610, the upper member 612, and the support member 618 may be formed as a single integral component made of a recyclable pulp-based material.

[0112] Figures 35A to 35CAn exemplary applicator 700 is shown, which can operate in a similar manner to the applicator 400 described above. The applicator 700 may include a cylindrical base member 710, which includes a base plate 712, an aperture 714 extending through the base plate 712, and a support member 718. The applicator 700 may include a pusher 720 that engages with the cylindrical base member 710, wherein the pusher 720 includes an elongated handle 722. The pusher 720 may be slidably engaged with the base member 710. Furthermore, the pusher 720 may also have a storage location, i.e., the pusher 720 is located on top of the base member 710, to form a storage cavity 716 for holding the aforementioned flowable material. The pusher 720 may have a seal or lip to help seal the cavity 716, ensuring that when the pusher 720 is forced downward, the flowable material is discharged through the aperture 726 extending through the base plate 712. The pusher 720 can be secured to the base member 710 by a lip 719 extending around the upper perimeter of the base member 710. A support member 718 can extend below the substrate 712 to position the substrate 712 at a predetermined distance from the target surface receiving the flowable material. The support member 718 can also serve as a seal between the applicator 700 and the target surface. The applicator 700 can be formed by both the base member 710 and the separate pusher 720, both made of a polymer material (such as polypropylene (PP) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE)).

[0113] Figure 36A and Figure 36B The applicator 800 shown is another exemplary single-use applicator. The applicator 800 may include a cardboard or paper-based structure having a top plate member 810 and a bottom plate member 812, wherein the top plate member and the bottom plate member may be pivotally connected at a first end 814 of the applicator 800. The top plate member 810 and the bottom plate member 812 may be connected at a second end 816 opposite to the first end 814. An opening 820 may extend through the top plate member 810 and the bottom plate member 812 at the first end 814. The opening 820 may form a pair of arms 822 on the first end 814 of the applicator 800. Furthermore, a fold line 824 may be located on the top plate member 810 and the bottom plate member 812, between the first end 814 and the second end 816, to form a pocket or gap 818 between the top plate member 810 and the bottom plate member 812. The pouch 830 can be fixed within the gap 818, wherein the pouch 830 can have a cavity 832 for containing the aforementioned flowable material.

[0114] To discharge the flowable material, the arm 822 can be pressed against the target surface, whereby the arm serves to separate the pouch 830 from the target surface. Next, the two plate members 810, 812 can be pressed together, causing the flowable material to flow from the cavity 832 through a predetermined path within the pouch 830 to form a clump of flowable material on the target surface. The applicator 800 can be die-cut from a single sheet of cardboard or other pulp product folded and secured around the separately formed pouch 830.

[0115] Figures 37A to 37F The applicator 900 shown may be similar to the applicator 800, wherein the applicator 900 may be formed from a single cardboard member having a top plate member 910 and a bottom plate member 912, wherein the top plate member 910 and the bottom plate member 912 may be pivotally connected at a first end 914 of the applicator 900. The top plate member 910 and the bottom plate member 912 may be connected or joined together at a second end 916 opposite to the first end 914. An opening 920 may extend through the top plate member 910 and the bottom plate member 912 at the first end 914. The opening 920 may form a pair of arms 922 on the first end 914 of the applicator 900. Furthermore, multiple pleats in each plate member 910, 912 may be located on the top plate member 910 and the bottom plate member 912 to form a pocket or gap 918 between the top plate member 910 and the bottom plate member 912. A pouch 930 may be secured within the gap 918. The pouch 930 may be formed from two sheets 931, 932 that can be ultrasonically welded together with the front portion 933, wherein the pouch 930 may include a cavity (not shown) for containing the aforementioned flowable material. The pouch 930 may include a front portion 933 having an orifice 934, which may be similar to any of the orifices 126 described above. Multiple pleats 924 may separate the applicator 900 into a lower member 940 formed by a portion of the top plate member 910 and the bottom plate member 912, and an upper member 942 formed by a portion of the top plate member 910, the bottom plate member 912, and the upper member 942. The upper member 942 may be movably engaged with the lower member 940. When the upper member 942 is pushed down to the lower member 940, the cavity of the pouch 930 may be compressed to discharge the flowable material through the orifice 934 onto the target surface. Figure 37E As shown, to discharge the flowable material, the first end 914 can be placed on the target surface 15, and the user can apply a downward force to the upper member 942. When the upper member 942 moves downward relative to the lower member 940, the flowable material is discharged through the orifice 934 onto the target surface, as shown. Figure 37F As shown.

[0116] Figure 38A , Figure 38B as well as Figure 38CAnother exemplary system is shown, which is similar to the example discussed above in this article. Figures 38A to 38C Similar reference numerals are used to describe similar or identical parts, features, and functions shown in the various examples. Therefore, the following text will... Figure 38A , Figure 38B as well as Figure 38C Some features of the applicator 1000 described herein may be described in less detail, or may be omitted, since the description herein applies to similar or identical parts and features.

[0117] Reference Figures 38A to 38C Similar to the example described above, the applicator 1000 may include a base 1010 having a substrate 1012, an opening (not shown) extending through the substrate 1012, a receiver 1014 for securing the storage compartment 100, a guide member 1020, and a pusher 1030 received in the guide opening 1026. The pusher body 1036 may have a substantially plate-like shape and have a front surface 1042, a rear surface opposite to the front surface 1042, and a peripheral surface 1046 extending between the front and rear surfaces. Support ribs 1048 may extend along each of the front and rear surfaces from a first end 1038 (i.e., the dome-shaped end 1038) of the pusher body 1036 toward a second end 1034. Second support ribs (not shown) may extend along opposite sides of the pusher body 1036. In this example, the length of each support rib 1048 may be at least 40% of the length of the pusher body 1036 (i.e., the distance between the first end 1038 and the second end 1034), or in some examples, the length of each support rib 1048 may be at least 50% of the length of the pusher body 1036. Each rib 1048 may be substantially centered on the front and rear surfaces, and its width near the first end 1038 may be greater than its width near the end of the rib 1048. This difference in rib width may be due to a tapered width or a stepped width, such that the width of each side of the step is different. The grip portion 1040 may have an arc-shaped upper portion.

[0118] The guide member 1020 may include a central support member 1028 positioned below a circular portion of the guide member body 1022. The central support member 1028 may help stabilize and support the actuator 1030 as it moves along the guide opening 1026. The guide opening 1026 may generally correspond in shape to the cross-sectional profile of the actuator body 1036, but be slightly larger, to allow a sliding fit between the actuator body 1036 and the guide opening 1026. In this example, the guide opening 1026 may have a wider central region and a narrower end region to allow the rib 1048 to slide through the opening. The dome-shaped end 1038 of the actuator 1030 may be a smooth surface with a curved, arcuate outer edge. Alternatively, the dome-shaped end 1038 may have a textured surface or a stepped portion, similar to the dome-shaped ends of other actuators described herein.

[0119] However, in this example, the base 1010 can be formed as a single, integral or one-piece component, rather than two separate parts. Furthermore, the receiver 1014 can be configured to facilitate the receiving of the storage compartment 100 into the applicator 1000, allowing the user to more easily insert the storage compartment 100 into the applicator 1000. For example, the base 1010 can be configured to be open on either side, allowing the user to easily place the storage compartment 100 therein—the receiver 1014 can define a first side with a first opening and a second side with a second opening. Thus, the receiver 1014 is configured to receive the storage compartment 100 on either the first or second side. Additionally, in this example, a portion of the annular lip 1017 has been removed to allow the storage compartment 100 to slide in from one side of the applicator 1000. Moreover, the plate of the base 1010, configured to support the storage compartment 100, can be flush with the lower part of the first opening, allowing the user to easily insert the storage compartment 100 into the first opening. Alternatively, the plate of the base 1010 may be flush with the lower part of the second open receiver 1014 for easier placement of the storage compartment 100. Furthermore, the flange 112 of the storage compartment 100 is not trapped after being crushed within the base 1010, allowing the storage compartment 100 to be easily removed from the base 1010 after use. This makes the applicator 1000 more reusable, allowing for the dispensing of multiple storage compartments 100 as needed by the user. Figure 38C yes Figure 38A Another perspective view of an exemplary dispenser. (See also...) Figure 38C As shown, the base may include a lip 1017 with a lower height or lower profile so that the user can still easily insert the storage compartment 100 into the applicator 1000. The lip 1017 may be located on one side of the applicator 1000, while the other side may be open, such as... Figure 38A and Figure 38BAs shown. The lip 1017 helps to hold the storage chamber 100 in place during the dispensing of flowable material. In particular, the lip 1017 can assist in holding the storage chamber 100 in place when the pusher body 1136 presses against the storage chamber 100, and Figure 38A and Figure 38B The open side shown allows the user to easily place the storage compartment 100 into the receiver 1014 of the base 1010. However, it is also conceivable that the lip 1017 may extend circumferentially within the area of ​​the opening or receiver 1014, such that the lip 1017 extends on both sides and surrounds the storage compartment, as in other examples shown herein. However, in other examples, the annular lip 1017 may be detachable from both sides, allowing the user to easily place the storage compartment 100 into the base 1010 from either side.

[0120] Figure 39A and Figure 39B It shows from Figures 38A to 38C A view of flowable material dispensed by an exemplary applicator. Similar to the example above, applicator 1000 and storage tank 100 can be configured to dispense a cluster 160 having several petals 163. Each petal 163 can be spherical. This cluster 160 helps generate more foam during rinsing. The spherical petals 163 can create more turbulence in the rinse water, washing away more of the formula and thus generating more foam. The cluster 160 can form various orifices as discussed herein, such as... Figure 6A and Figure 6C These orifices can be formed into various desired shapes, such as rectangles, circles, ellipses, and polygons with even and odd numbers of sides, and can be formed from various formulations discussed herein. Although Figure 39A and Figure 39B Flowable materials are related to Figures 38A to 38C The example of the applicator is described, but it is conceivable that... Figure 39A and Figure 39B The flowable material pattern can be dispensed or formed using other applicator examples discussed herein, including but not limited to those related to Figure 9A , Figure 9B , Figure 13 as well as Figures 16 to 30E The described applicator.

[0121] Those skilled in the art, based on the knowledge gained from this invention, will recognize that various modifications can be made to the disclosed apparatus and methods without departing from the scope of the invention to achieve these and other advantages. Therefore, it should be understood that the features described herein are subject to modification, alteration, modification, or substitution. For example, it is expressly stated that all combinations of these elements and / or steps, performing substantially the same function in substantially the same manner to achieve the same result, are within the scope of the invention. Substitution of elements from one described embodiment to another is also entirely intentional and contemplated. The specific embodiments illustrated and described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention as set forth in the appended claims. Other embodiments will also be apparent to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that the above description is provided merely for clarity and is exemplary only. The spirit and scope of the invention are not limited to the examples described above but are included in the following claims. The entire contents of all publications and patent applications cited above are incorporated by reference for all purposes, as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A system for dispensing a flowable material onto a surface, comprising: Storage compartments for storing the flowable material include: The housing includes a dome-shaped upper portion and a flange extending around the perimeter of the housing; A lid, attached to the housing, defining an internal volume, wherein the lid includes an inner layer with openings and a removable outer layer that, when present, covers a portion of the inner layer; Flowable material is placed within the internal volume; and The applicator includes: The base includes a receiver for holding the storage compartment, the receiver defining a first side that defines a first opening of the applicator, and the receiver further defining a second side having a second opening, wherein the receiver is configured to receive the storage compartment into the first side or the second side; The actuator component is configured to contact the central region of the upper part of the housing. One of the first and second sides includes a lip extending upward from the substrate of the base, the lip being configured to secure the storage compartment within the receiver when a force is applied by the user through the pusher mechanism. The upper part of the housing is configured to collapse when it receives a force applied by a user through the pusher mechanism, and when the upper part collapses, the flowable material is extruded through the orifice.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The receiver includes a wall extending from the base, wherein the actuator component is slidably engaged with the wall, wherein the actuator component has a first end in contact with the storage compartment and a second end opposite to the first end.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The wall includes a guide opening for receiving the actuator component.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The base and the wall are formed as a single integral component.

5. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The actuator component includes ribs, and the ribs are configured to be received into guides of a corresponding shape located on the wall.

6. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The first end of the actuator component includes a dome-shaped end aligned with the longitudinal axis of the storage compartment.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein, The width of the dome-shaped end is less than the width of the actuator body of the actuator mechanism.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The base also includes a support member, which includes a plurality of legs extending from the base.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The substrate is configured to support the storage compartment, and the substrate is flush with the lower part of the opening of the other of the first side and the second side.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The flowable material is a cleaning gel.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein, The amount of the cleaning gel within the internal volume is between 5 and 10 grams.

12. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The cover is attached to the flange.

13. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The height of the storage compartment, measured from the top of the cover and the housing, is less than the radius of the upper part of the dome.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The flange forms a plane, and the angle formed at the intersection of the flange and the upper part is greater than 90 degrees.

15. The system according to claim 1, wherein, When the outer layer of the cover is removed, the openings of the inner layer and the flowable material are exposed.

16. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The shell is formed of aluminum alloy, polypropylene, high-density polyethylene or low-density polyethylene.

17. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The orifice comprises a single opening.

18. A system for dispensing a flowable material onto a surface, comprising: Storage compartments for storing the flowable material include: The housing includes a dome-shaped upper portion and a flange extending around the perimeter of the housing; A lid, attached to the housing, defining an internal volume, wherein the lid includes an inner layer with openings and a removable outer layer that, when present, covers a portion of the inner layer; Flowable material is placed within the internal volume; and The applicator includes: The base includes: substrate; A receiver, located on the substrate, for securing the storage compartment, the receiver defining a first side that defines a first opening of the applicator, and the receiver further defining a second side having a second opening, wherein the receiver is configured to receive the storage compartment into the first side or the second side; A support member extending from the substrate is configured to contact a surface receiving the flowable material, wherein the support member positions the substrate at a fixed distance from the surface. The actuator component is configured to contact the central region of the upper part of the housing. One of the first side and the second side includes a lip extending upward from the substrate of the base, the lip being configured to secure the storage compartment within the receiver when a force is applied by the user through the pusher mechanism. The upper part of the housing is configured to collapse when a force is applied by a user through the pusher mechanism, and when the upper part collapses, the flowable material is extruded through the orifice.

19. The system according to claim 18, wherein, The first end of the actuator component includes a dome-shaped end aligned with the longitudinal axis of the storage compartment.

20. The system according to claim 19, wherein, The width of the dome-shaped end is less than the width of the actuator body of the actuator component, and the stepped portion extends between the dome-shaped end and the actuator body, wherein the stepped portion includes vertical steps extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

21. The system according to claim 18, wherein, The support member includes a plurality of legs extending from the substrate.

22. The system according to claim 18, wherein, The support member includes a member extending around the perimeter of the base.

23. A method for dispensing a flowable material onto a surface, comprising the following steps: A storage compartment is provided, wherein the storage compartment includes: a housing having a dome-shaped portion and a flange extending around the periphery of the dome-shaped portion; and a lid attached to the housing, defining an internal volume, wherein the lid includes an inner layer having an opening and a removable outer layer covering a portion of the inner layer when present; Remove the outer layer of the storage compartment; The storage compartment is placed on the receiver of the applicator, wherein the flange is received within the receiver, and the dome-shaped portion of the housing extends upward from the receiver, wherein the receiver has a first side and a second side, the first side having a first opening of the applicator and the second side having a second opening, wherein the receiver is configured to receive the storage compartment in the first side or the second side. Place the support member of the applicator on the surface that receives the flowable material; A force is applied to the pusher mechanism of the applicator, wherein the force presses the pusher mechanism onto the dome-shaped portion, causing the dome-shaped portion to collapse, wherein as the dome-shaped portion collapses, the flowable material is extruded through the orifice. One of the first side and the second side includes a lip extending upward from the substrate of the applicator, the lip being configured to secure the storage compartment within the receiver when the user applies force through the pusher mechanism.

24. A system for dispensing a flowable material onto a surface, comprising: Storage compartments for storing the flowable material include: The housing includes a dome-shaped upper portion and a flange extending around the perimeter of the housing; A lid, attached to the housing, defining an internal volume, wherein the lid includes an inner layer with openings; Flowable material is placed within the internal volume; and The applicator includes: The base includes: substrate; A receiver, located on the substrate, for securing the storage compartment, the receiver defining a first side that defines a first opening of the applicator, and the receiver further defining a second side having a second opening, wherein the receiver is configured to receive the storage compartment into the first side or the second side; A support member extending from the substrate, the support member being configured to contact a surface receiving the flowable material, wherein the support member positions the substrate at a fixed distance from the surface; and The actuator is configured to contact the central region of the upper part of the housing of the storage compartment. One of the first side and the second side includes a lip extending upward from the substrate of the base, the lip being configured to secure the storage compartment within the receiver when a user applies force via the pusher. The upper part of the housing is configured to collapse upon receiving a force applied by the user through the pusher, and when the upper part collapses, the flowable material is extruded through the orifice of the storage compartment.

25. The system according to claim 24, wherein, The applicator further includes a guide member, the guide member including a guide opening for receiving the pusher.

26. The system according to claim 25, wherein, The actuator extends through the guide opening.

27. The system according to claim 25, wherein, The guide member engages with the base along the perimeter of the base.

28. The system according to claim 27, wherein, The guide member and the base are formed as a single integral component.

29. The system according to claim 24, wherein, The actuator has an actuator body that is plate-shaped and has a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

30. The system according to claim 29, wherein, The actuator includes ribs extending along the front surface of the actuator body.

31. The system according to claim 24, wherein, The actuator has a dome-shaped end, and the dome-shaped end has a stepped region.

32. The system according to claim 24, wherein, The system for dispensing the flowable material onto the surface is a single-use system.

Images