Fluid applicator

Abstract

A fluid applicator includes a main housing extending along a longitudinal axis defined between a first end and an opposite second end. The main housing defines an applicator outlet disposed at the first end. The fluid applicator also includes a first cartridge disposed within the main housing and including a first seal for holding a first fluid. The fluid applicator also includes a second barrel spaced from the first barrel and disposed within the main housing. The second barrel includes a second seal for holding a second fluid different from the first fluid. The fluid applicator also includes a mixing chamber housing disposed within the main housing. The fluid applicator also includes a first piercing element, a second piercing element, and a nozzle connected to the mixing chamber housing opposite each of the first piercing element and the second piercing element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a fluid applicator for dispensing or applying a fluid. Background Art

[0002] Staples and sutures are commonly used for wound closure in operating room environments. While they are used for high tension and large area closure, tissue adhesives are also used for small wounds alone or in combination with internal deep sutures. Tissue adhesives can reduce pain, can lead to better cosmetic results, and provide an antimicrobial barrier against further infection. Tissue adhesives can also be applied quickly compared to staples and sutures. Common tissue adhesives are cyanoacrylate-based compositions that have very low viscosities. In addition, the dispensers used for these are typically sealed tubes containing tissue adhesives, wherein once the opening is unsealed, the tube is simply squeezed to deliver the low viscosity adhesive. Therefore, these commonly used tissue adhesives are not easy to control when delivered to the wound.

[0003] To address these problems, binary higher viscosity tissue adhesives and applicators have been developed. Applicators have been described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 350510 filed on June 9, 2022, and adhesives are disclosed in WO 2022 / 090842 A1. The corresponding components propylamine bis (oxalamide monoethyl ester) and 2-ethylhexyl glycidyl ether modified PEI have viscosities of 8 Pascal-seconds to 13 Pascal-seconds and 21 Pascal-seconds to 26 Pascal-seconds. The applicator is designed to mix two substantially different viscous components together (in a ratio of equal mass of 1:1) and distribute them through a nozzle with a static mixer, and then through a bead-shaped tip to provide easy application to the wound site.

[0004] Because the fluids have such different viscosities, technical challenges arise in obtaining good mixing within the tubing and performance of the final dispensed adhesive bead on the wound site.The dispensing and mixing problems that were discovered and addressed are discussed in this application. Summary of the invention

[0005] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a fluid application device. The fluid application device includes a main housing including a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The main housing extends along a longitudinal axis defined between the first end and the second end. The main housing defines an application device outlet disposed at the first end. The fluid application device also includes a first barrel disposed within the main housing and including a first seal for retaining a first fluid. At least 85% of the total volume of the first barrel is filled with the first fluid. The fluid application device also includes a second barrel spaced apart from the first barrel and disposed within the main housing. The second barrel includes a second seal for retaining a second fluid different from the first fluid. At least 85% of the total volume of the second barrel is filled with the second fluid. The fluid application device also includes a mixing chamber housing disposed within the main housing and spaced apart from each of the first barrel and the second barrel along the longitudinal axis. The fluid application device also includes a first piercing element, which is substantially aligned with the first seal along the longitudinal axis and is disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the first barrel. The first piercing element includes a first cylindrical base, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing and extends toward the first barrel. The first piercing element also includes a first tip, which is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and is disposed proximal to the first seal. The first piercing element also includes a plurality of first walls, which extend obliquely from the first cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis. The plurality of first walls are angularly spaced apart from each other at the first cylindrical base and converge toward each other to intersect at the first tip. The fluid application device also includes a second piercing element, which is substantially aligned with the second seal along the longitudinal axis and is disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the second barrel. The second piercing element includes a second cylindrical base, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing and extends toward the second barrel. The second piercing element also includes a second tip, which is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and is disposed proximal to the second seal. The second piercing element also includes a plurality of second walls, which extend obliquely from the second cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis. The plurality of second walls are spaced apart from each other at an angle at the second cylindrical base and converge toward each other to intersect at the second tip. The fluid application device also includes a nozzle, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing relative to each of the first piercing element and the second piercing element. The nozzle extends from the mixing chamber housing to the application device outlet. The nozzle and the mixing chamber housing define a mixing chamber cavity. When a force is applied at the second end of the main housing, the first tip engages the first seal and pierces the first seal into a plurality of first fins corresponding to the plurality of first walls, thereby forming a first fluid path between the first barrel and the mixing chamber cavity.The first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity. In addition, when a force is applied at the second end of the main housing, the second tip engages the second seal and pierces the second seal into a plurality of second fins corresponding to the plurality of second walls, thereby forming a second fluid path between the second barrel and the mixing chamber cavity. The second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity.

[0006] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a fluid application device. The fluid application device includes a main housing, the main housing including a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The main housing extends along a longitudinal axis defined between the first end and the second end. The main housing defines an application device outlet disposed at the first end. The fluid application device also includes a first barrel disposed within the main housing and including a first seal for retaining a first fluid. The fluid application device also includes a second barrel spaced apart from the first barrel and disposed within the main housing. The second barrel includes a second seal for retaining a second fluid different from the first fluid. The fluid application device also includes a mixing chamber housing disposed within the main housing and spaced apart from each of the first barrel and the second barrel along the longitudinal axis. The fluid application device also includes a first piercing element substantially aligned with the first seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the first barrel. The fluid application device also includes a second piercing element, which is substantially aligned with the second seal along the longitudinal axis and is disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the second barrel. The fluid application device also includes a nozzle, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing relative to each of the first piercing element and the second piercing element. The nozzle extends from the mixing chamber housing to the application device outlet. The nozzle and the mixing chamber housing define a mixing chamber cavity. When a force is applied at the second end of the main housing, the first piercing element engages and pierces the first seal, thereby forming a first fluid path between the first barrel and the mixing chamber cavity. The first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity. In addition, when a force is applied at the second end of the main housing, the second piercing element engages and pierces the second seal, thereby forming a second fluid path between the second barrel and the mixing chamber cavity. The second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity. The fluid application device also includes a nozzle gasket disposed inside the mixing chamber housing and forming a sealing contact between the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle. The nozzle gasket defines a first through hole in fluid communication with the first fluid path. The nozzle gasket also defines a second through hole in fluid communication with the second fluid path. The nozzle gasket also defines a third through hole disposed between the first through hole and the second through hole along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, such that a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the respective first fluid path and the second fluid path is captured within the third through hole.

[0007] In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a fluid application device. The fluid application device includes a main housing, the main housing including a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The main housing extends along a longitudinal axis defined between the first end and the second end. The main housing defines an application device outlet disposed at the first end. The application device outlet has a substantially rectangular cross-section or an elliptical cross-section. The fluid application device also includes a first barrel disposed within the main housing and including a first seal for retaining a first fluid. The fluid application device also includes a second barrel spaced apart from the first barrel and disposed within the main housing. The second barrel includes a second seal for retaining a second fluid different from the first fluid. The fluid application device also includes a mixing chamber housing disposed within the main housing and spaced apart from each of the first barrel and the second barrel along the longitudinal axis. The fluid application device also includes a first piercing element substantially aligned with the first seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the first barrel. The fluid application device also includes a second piercing element, which is substantially aligned with the second seal along the longitudinal axis and is disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the second barrel. The fluid application device also includes a nozzle, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing relative to each of the first piercing element and the second piercing element. The nozzle extends from the mixing chamber housing to the application device outlet. The nozzle and the mixing chamber housing define a mixing chamber cavity. When a force is applied at the second end of the main housing, the first piercing element engages and pierces the first seal, thereby forming a first fluid path between the first barrel and the mixing chamber cavity. The first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity. In addition, when a force is applied at the second end of the main housing, the second piercing element engages and pierces the second seal, thereby forming a second fluid path between the second barrel and the mixing chamber cavity. The second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be more completely understood by considering the following detailed description in conjunction with the following drawings. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. The same numerals used in the drawings represent similar components. However, it should be understood that the use of numbers to refer to components in a given figure is not intended to limit the components marked with the same number in another figure.

[0009] Figure 1 is an underside perspective view of a fluid applicator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 2 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 An underside perspective view of a fluid applicator of , with some components partially shown;

[0011] Figure 3 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective cross-sectional side view of a fluid application device;

[0012] Figure 4 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A partially exploded view of a fluid application device;

[0013] Figure 5A According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A side view of a mixing chamber housing, a first piercing element, and a second piercing element of a fluid application device;

[0014] Figure 5B is a top view of a mixing chamber housing and a first piercing element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 5C is a cross-sectional side view of a mixing chamber housing, a first piercing element, and a second piercing element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 5D is a front view of a mixing chamber housing, a first piercing element, and a second piercing element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 5E is a perspective front view of a mixing chamber housing, a first piercing element, and a second piercing element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Fig. 6A According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A front view of a pierced first seal in a fluid application device;

[0019] Figure 6B According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A front view of a pierced second seal in a fluid application device;

[0020] Figure 7 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of a mixing chamber housing and a nozzle of a fluid application device;

[0021] Figure 8 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 7 A front view of a nozzle;

[0022] Fig. 9 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 7 A perspective front view of a nozzle;

[0023] Fig.10 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 7 A perspective cross-sectional front view of a mixing chamber housing and a nozzle, some components of which are not shown;

[0024] Fig.11 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A front view of a mixing chamber housing, a nozzle and a nozzle gasket of a fluid application device, wherein other components are not shown;

[0025] Fig.12 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.11 A front view of a nozzle gasket;

[0026] Fig.13 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of a first end portion of a fluid applicator;

[0027] Fig.14 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.13 a front view of a first end portion of the device;

[0028] Fig.15 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.13 a rear view of the first end portion of the

[0029] Fig.16 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.13 Another cross-sectional view of the first end of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part thereof, and in which various embodiments are shown by way of illustration. It should be understood that other embodiments are contemplated and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be construed in a limiting sense.

[0031] In the following disclosure, the following definitions apply.

[0032] As used herein, all numbers should be considered to be modified by the term “about.” As used herein, “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably.

[0033] As used herein as a modifier of a property or attribute, unless otherwise specifically defined, the term "substantially" means that the property or attribute would be readily recognized by a skilled artisan but does not require absolute precision or a perfect match (e.g., within + / - 20% for a quantifiable property).

[0034] Unless specifically defined otherwise, the term "substantially" means a high degree of approximation (eg, within + / - 10% for a quantifiable property), but likewise does not require absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0035] Unless specifically defined otherwise, the term "about" means a close approximation (eg, within + / - 5% for a quantifiable property), but again does not require absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0036] Terms such as same, equal, consistent, constant, exact, etc. are to be understood as within the usual tolerances or measurement errors applicable to the particular situation, without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0037] As used herein, the terms "first" and "second" are used as identifiers. Therefore, such terms should not be interpreted as limiting the present disclosure. The terms "first" and "second" are interchangeable in embodiments of the present disclosure when used in conjunction with features or elements.

[0038] As used herein, when a first material is referred to as being “the same” or “similar” to a second material, at least 90 weight percent of the first and second materials are identical, and any variation between the first and second materials comprises less than about 10 weight percent of each of the first and second materials.

[0039] As used herein, “at least one of A and B” should be understood to mean “only A, only B, or both A and B”.

[0040] Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "attach", "connect", "couple" and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct physical connections or indirect physical connections between two or more components that are connected together through one or more additional components. For example, a first component may be coupled to a second component by being directly connected together or by being connected through a third component. In some examples, in some contexts, coupling, connection, and attachment may also include mechanical, thermal, electrical, or chemical coupling (such as a chemical bond).

[0041] As used herein, the term "wound" may include, for example, chronic wounds, acute wounds, traumatic wounds, subacute wounds, closed surgical wounds or dehiscence wounds, base thickness burns, ulcers (such as diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, or venous insufficiency ulcers), flaps, and grafts. A wound may also include an open abdominal area of ​​a patient.

[0042] Tissue adhesives are used to heal and / or seal small wounds, either alone or in combination with internal deep sutures. Common tissue adhesives are cyanoacrylate-based compositions that have very low viscosities. Applicators for delivering tissue adhesives include sealed tube type dispensers that are unable to deliver the desired amount of tissue adhesive due to the very low viscosity of cyanoacrylate-based compositions in the tissue adhesive. The viscosity of the tissue adhesive can be increased by mixing two substantially different viscosity components together, however, it may still face technical challenges in obtaining good in-line mixing and ultimately dispensing the adhesive beads for performance on the wound.

[0043] One of these challenges is to obtain bubble-free distribution operation from conventional fluid applicators or distributors. The formation of large bubbles can reduce the tensile strength at the local position along the length of the beads. Generally speaking, bubble-free distribution is obtained by filling the two barrels of conventional fluid applicators to the top end before each barrel is sealed with a foil seal. This can eliminate any head space between the top of the fluid in the foil seal and the barrel. However, when the conventional design of the piercing element is utilized to test the barrel that has completed filling, the foil seal may be torn off from the barrel edge and float in the preparation of the tissue adhesive. The floating foil can completely or partially block the mixing chamber entrance during the distribution operation. This utilizes a new piercing element design to correct, and this new piercing element design pierces foil into a plurality of smaller foil segments, rather than a large wing as the conventional design of the piercing element. Having a piercing design that makes a large wing pierced requires the head space in the barrel (that is, between the top of the foil and the filling pipeline) to allow the wing to move when the foil is pierced. However, as previously described, having this gap creates head space and therefore results in an underfilled cartridge with air pockets therein.

[0044] In addition, in conventional fluid applicators or distributors with binary tissue adhesives of different viscosities, other problems may exist. For example, when the applicator is activated and when the fluid first flows from the barrel into the mixing chamber, the fluid of lower viscosity may initially guide the fluid of higher viscosity through the mixing chamber. This indicates that it has a material that cannot be mixed with other components and then moves through the nozzle. This will only occur during the initial time period when the fluid fronts first meet when activated. This can be observed by the lower tensile strength of the initial part or front edge of the distribution bead. This can be solved in several different ways. One way is to have a well in the mixing chamber cavity area, and when the fluid first meets in the mixing chamber cavity, the well can capture the initial front of the fluid. The second way is to place a restrictor on one side of the fluid of lower viscosity in the cavity. This can be a protrusion from the nozzle. This can limit the initial flow of the fluid of lower viscosity when the applicator is activated. These first two methods solve the "pre" mixing problem, that is, before the fluid is introduced into the nozzle and passes through the static mixer. The third method is "post" mixing, i.e., after the fluid has passed through the nozzle / in-line mixer assembly. In this method, the applicator tip attached to the nozzle discharge has a tortuous path and a fluid catcher where the catcher captures the initial flow of fluid. After the catcher is filled with the initial portion of the dispensed fluid, the remaining mixed fluid flows out of the nozzle and through the tip without further capturing any additional fluid.

[0045] In addition, in conventional fluid application devices, the selected tip geometry may not provide the desired or appropriate height and width of the distribution bead. Since two fluids of different viscosities need to be mixed using an in-pipe static mixer fitted into a nozzle with a substantially circular internal cross-section, it is also necessary to change the shape from a circular profile to a tip of a wide and narrow distribution bead. In order to fully cover the wound incision, the distribution bead width should ideally be about 10 millimeters to 13 millimeters (mm). Therefore, a novel geometry is needed to convert the nozzle output into a properly shaped distribution bead placed on the wound closure site. The distribution bead has a dome-shaped profile, typically 10 mm to 13 mm wide and 1 mm to 3 mm in height. Therefore, the width is much larger than the height.

[0046] The present disclosure provides a fluid application device. The fluid application device includes a main housing, the main housing including a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. The main housing extends along a longitudinal axis defined between the first end and the second end. The main housing defines an application device outlet disposed at the first end. The fluid application device also includes a first barrel disposed within the main housing and including a first seal for retaining a first fluid. At least 85% of the total volume of the first barrel is filled with the first fluid. The fluid application device also includes a second barrel, the second barrel is spaced apart from the first barrel and disposed within the main housing. The second barrel includes a second seal for retaining a second fluid different from the first fluid. At least 85% of the total volume of the second barrel is filled with the second fluid. The fluid application device also includes a mixing chamber housing disposed within the main housing and spaced apart from each of the first barrel and the second barrel along the longitudinal axis. The fluid application device also includes a first piercing element, the first piercing element substantially aligned with the first seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the first barrel. The first piercing element comprises a first cylindrical base, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing and extends toward the first barrel. The first piercing element also comprises a first tip, which is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and is disposed proximal to the first seal. The first piercing element also comprises a plurality of first walls, which extend obliquely from the first cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis. The plurality of first walls are spaced apart from each other at an angle at the first cylindrical base and converge toward each other to intersect at the first tip. The fluid application device also comprises a second piercing element, which is substantially aligned with the second seal along the longitudinal axis and is disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the second barrel. The second piercing element comprises a second cylindrical base, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing and extends toward the second barrel. The second piercing element also comprises a second tip, which is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and is disposed proximal to the second seal. The second piercing element also includes a plurality of second walls extending obliquely from the second cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis. The plurality of second walls are spaced apart from each other at an angle at the second cylindrical base and converge toward each other to intersect at the second tip. The fluid application device also includes a nozzle, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing relative to each of the first piercing element and the second piercing element. The nozzle extends from the mixing chamber housing to the application device outlet. The nozzle and the mixing chamber housing define a mixing chamber cavity. When a force is applied at the second end of the main housing, the first tip engages the first seal and pierces the first seal into a plurality of first fins corresponding to the plurality of first walls, thereby forming a first fluid path between the first barrel and the mixing chamber cavity.The first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity. In addition, when a force is applied at the second end of the main housing, the second tip engages the second seal and pierces the second seal into a plurality of second fins corresponding to the plurality of second walls, thereby forming a second fluid path between the second barrel and the mixing chamber cavity. The second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity.

[0047] When this first tip engages this first seal, and this first seal is pierced into this multiple first fins corresponding to these multiple first walls, these multiple first fins remain attached to this first seal of this first barrel.Similarly, when this second tip engages this second seal, and this second seal is pierced into this multiple second fins corresponding to these multiple second walls, these multiple second fins remain attached to this second seal of this second barrel.In other words, when piercing this corresponding first seal and this second seal, these multiple first fins and these multiple second fins do not break away from this corresponding first seal and this second seal.Due to the geometric design of this first piercing element and this second piercing element, these multiple first fins remain attached to this first seal of this first barrel, and these multiple second fins remain attached to this second seal of this second barrel.Therefore, this first seal has no part to tear off from this first barrel, and this second seal has no part to tear off from this second barrel. This ensures that during dispensing operations performed by the fluid applicator of the present disclosure, components such as the mixing chamber cavity, nozzle, and applicator outlet may not be blocked by any torn pieces of the first and second seals, which is otherwise a challenge in conventional fluid applicators / dispensers.

[0048] In some embodiments, the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle further define a first portion substantially aligned with the first piercing element along the longitudinal axis. The first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the first portion. The mixing chamber housing and the nozzle further define a second portion substantially aligned with the second piercing element along the longitudinal axis. The second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the second portion. The mixing chamber housing and the nozzle further define a mixing through hole in fluid communication with the mixing chamber cavity, the mixing through hole being arranged between the first portion and the second portion along a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The first fluid flows through the first portion to reach the mixing through hole. The second fluid flows through the second portion to reach the mixing through hole. The mixing chamber housing and the nozzle further define a flow restrictor, which is arranged on the nozzle and is arranged between the first portion and the mixing through hole along the transverse axis, and extends along a sagittal axis orthogonal to each of the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis, so that the flow restrictor limits the flow of the first fluid from the first portion to the mixing through hole.

[0049] The flow restrictor can slow down the initial distribution of the first fluid before the first fluid encounters the second fluid in the mixing chamber cavity. In some embodiments, the first viscosity of the first fluid is different from the second viscosity of the second fluid. In some embodiments, the ratio between the second viscosity of the second fluid and the first viscosity of the first fluid is greater than or equal to 2. This means that the first fluid is less viscous than the second fluid. Therefore, for the desired tensile strength of the initial portion of the distribution bead, due to the relatively low viscosity of the first fluid, it is necessary to limit the flow rate of the first fluid. Therefore, the flow restrictor limits or constrains the flow of the first fluid from the first portion to the mixing through hole, and therefore can improve the tensile strength of the initial portion of the distribution bead formed by uniformly mixing the first fluid and the second fluid.

[0050] In some embodiments, the fluid application device further comprises a nozzle gasket disposed inside the mixing chamber housing and forming a sealing contact between the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle. The nozzle gasket defines a first through hole in fluid communication with the first fluid path. The nozzle gasket also defines a second through hole in fluid communication with the second fluid path. The nozzle gasket also defines a third through hole disposed between the first through hole and the second through hole along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, such that a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the respective first fluid path and the second fluid path is captured within the third through hole. In some embodiments, the volume of the portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid captured within the third through hole is greater than or equal to about 5 mm 3 and less than or equal to about 25 mm 3 .

[0051] Thus, the third through hole acts as a fluid catcher to capture the initial dispensing bead (i.e., a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the respective first fluid path and the second fluid path). Including the third through hole in the nozzle gasket can remove initial materials that cannot be mixed (e.g., an initial portion of the first fluid having a lower viscosity) to provide a proper composition of the dispensing bead. This can further improve the tensile strength of the dispensing bead formed by uniformly mixing the first fluid and the second fluid.

[0052] In some embodiments, the nozzle also includes a nozzle body connected to the mixing chamber cavity fluid. The nozzle also includes a static mixer disposed inside the nozzle body. The nozzle also includes a nozzle tip, which defines a nozzle outlet for dispensing at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle. The nozzle tip is connected to the nozzle body and extends from the nozzle body. The nozzle outlet has a substantially circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the main housing includes a capture well adjacent to the outlet of the application device, so that a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the nozzle outlet is captured in the capture well. In some embodiments, the portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid captured in the capture well is greater than or equal to about 2% of the total volume of the first fluid and the second fluid to be dispensed from the nozzle outlet and is less than or equal to about 15%.

[0053] The capture wells act as fluid traps to capture an initial mass of the mixture of the first and second fluids after they are mixed within the nozzle body. Thus, a desired tensile strength of the dispensed bead can be obtained by capturing a portion of at least one of the first and second fluids within the capture wells.

[0054] In some embodiments, the applicator outlet has a substantially rectangular cross-section or an elliptical cross-section. In some embodiments, the applicator outlet comprises a maximum outlet width along a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a maximum outlet thickness orthogonal to each of the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis. The maximum outlet width is at least 3 times the maximum outlet thickness. In some embodiments, the ratio between the maximum outlet width of the applicator outlet and the maximum outlet width of the nozzle outlet is greater than or equal to about 2 and less than or equal to about 5.

[0055] Such dimensions of the maximum outlet width and maximum outlet thickness of the applicator outlet can provide a desired height and width of the dispensed bead formed by mixing the first fluid and the second fluid. Such dimensions of the applicator outlet can enable the dispensed bead to achieve a desired profile shape after exiting through the nozzle.

[0056] In some embodiments, the outlet interface includes a fluid separator disposed between the nozzle outlet and the applicator outlet. At least a portion of the fluid separator proximal to the nozzle outlet tapers outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis in the flow direction of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid, so that the flow of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle outlet is directed outwardly toward the edge of the applicator outlet. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the fluid separator proximal to the applicator outlet tapers inwardly relative to the longitudinal axis in the flow direction of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid, so that the flow of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle outlet is directed inwardly toward the center of the applicator outlet. Therefore, the fluid separator directs the flow of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle outlet toward the edge and center of the applicator outlet. This flow direction of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle outlet to the applicator outlet can ensure that at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid or a mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid is evenly dispersed, and can provide the desired height and width of the distribution beads leaving the applicator outlet.

[0057] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 is an underside perspective view of a fluid applicator 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The fluid applicator 100 includes a main housing 102 that supports, holds, or houses some or all of the components of the fluid applicator 100. Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of a fluid application device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with some components partially shown. Figure 2 , only a portion of the main housing 102 is shown. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a fluid applicator 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 1 is a partially exploded view of a fluid applicator 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For illustrative purposes, some components of the fluid applicator 100, such as the main housing 102, are not shown. Figure 4 It should be noted that the fluid application device 100 is Figures 1 to 4 1 is shown in the inactive configuration. In the inactive configuration, the fluid applicator 100 is unable to deliver or dispense any adhesive or fluid therefrom.

[0058] refer to Figures 1 to 4 , the main housing 102 includes a first end 104 and a second end 106 opposite the first end 104. The main housing 102 extends along a longitudinal axis LA defined between the first end 104 and the second end 106. The main housing 102 defines an applicator outlet 108 disposed at the first end 104. The applicator outlet 108 is a component from which a fluid is dispensed or applied to a surface (e.g., skin).

[0059] The fluid applicator 100 also includes a first barrel 110 disposed within the main housing 102 and including a first seal 112 for retaining a first fluid F1. At least 85% of the total volume of the first barrel 110 is filled with the first fluid F1. In some other embodiments, at least 90% or at least 95% of the total volume of the first barrel 110 may be filled with the first fluid F1. In some embodiments, the first barrel 110 may be completely filled with the first fluid F1. The first fluid F1 may be an adhesive, a skin protectant, an oil, or a solvent.

[0060] The fluid applicator 100 also includes a second barrel 114 spaced apart from the first barrel 110 and disposed within the main housing 102. The second barrel includes a second seal 116 for retaining a second fluid F2 that is different from the first fluid F1. At least 85% of the total volume of the second barrel 114 is filled with the second fluid F2. In some other embodiments, at least 90% or at least 95% of the total volume of the second barrel 114 may be filled with the second fluid F2. In some embodiments, the second barrel 114 may be completely filled with the second fluid F2. The second fluid F2 may be an adhesive, a skin protectant, an oil, or a solvent.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 may react with each other and therefore must be separated during storage, and change when mixed in use. In some embodiments, the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 form a binary adhesive that is cross-linked together. An example of a binary adhesive is an epoxy resin. In some embodiments, one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 contains an oxalylamino compound, and the other of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 contains a derived polyethyleneimine, and the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 are mixed together to form a multi-curable composition. The cured composition is an adhesive suitable for use as a tissue adhesive. In some embodiments, the oxalylamino compound in one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 has a molecular weight of at least 250 g / mol and has at least two formulas -NR 2 -(CO)-(CO)-OR 1 The oxalylamino group, where R 1 is a hydrocarbon group and wherein R 2is hydrogen or a hydrocarbon group. The derivatized polyethyleneimine in the other of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 contains the reaction product of polyethyleneimine and a glycidyl ether. The first seal 112 and the second seal 116 are typically pierceable films and can be multi-layer laminates that are welded or otherwise secured to the respective first and second barrels 110, 114. One such construction can be an aluminum foil layer, typically (less than .002") with a high density polyethylene (HDPE) layer (also less than .002"), which is used to be welded to the barrel seal surface to access the barrel (i.e., the first barrel 110 and the second barrel 114).

[0062] In some embodiments, the first viscosity V1 of the first fluid F1 ( Figure 3 ) is different from the second viscosity V2 ( Figure 3 ). In some embodiments, the ratio between the second viscosity V2 of the second fluid F2 and the first viscosity V1 of the first fluid F1 is greater than or equal to 2. This means that the second fluid F2 is more viscous than the first fluid F1. The first viscosity V1 of the first fluid F1 and the second viscosity of the second fluid F2 may be in the range of 5 Pascal-seconds to 30 Pascal-seconds. In some embodiments, the first viscosity V1 of the first fluid F1 may be at most 15 Pascal-seconds. In some embodiments, the second viscosity V2 of the second fluid F2 may be at most 30 Pascal-seconds. In some embodiments, the first viscosity V1 of the first fluid F1 may be at least 4 Pascal-seconds. In some embodiments, the second viscosity V2 of the second fluid F2 may be at least 15 Pascal-seconds.

[0063] In some embodiments, the main housing 102 can be a single unitary component. However, in some other embodiments, the main housing 102 can include multiple components. For example, the main housing 102 can include a top cover and a bottom cover covering components such as the first barrel 110 and the second barrel 114. In addition, the main housing 102 can include an applicator tip that is connected to extend from the top cover and the bottom cover proximal to the first end 104. In such cases, the applicator tip can define an applicator outlet 108 disposed at the first end 104. Figure 2 In the figure, for illustrative purposes, the bottom cover of the main housing 102 is removed.

[0064] The fluid application device 100 also includes a mixing chamber housing 118 disposed within the main housing 102 and spaced apart from each of the first barrel 110 and the second barrel 114 along the longitudinal axis LA.

[0065] The fluid application device 100 also includes a first piercing element 120 that is substantially aligned with the first seal 112 along the longitudinal axis LA and disposed between the mixing chamber housing 118 and the first barrel 110. The first piercing element 120 is configured to pierce the first seal 112 when a force F (eg, Figure 2 The fluid application device 100 further includes a second piercing element 122 that is substantially aligned with the second seal 116 along the longitudinal axis LA and disposed between the mixing chamber housing 118 and the second barrel 114. The second piercing element 122 is configured to pierce or rupture the second seal 116 when the force F is applied.

[0066] Figure 5A According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 1. A side view of the mixing chamber housing 118, the first piercing element 120, and the second piercing element 122 of the fluid application device 100. Figure 5B is a top view of a mixing chamber housing 118 and a first piercing element 120 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5C is a cross-sectional side view of a mixing chamber housing 118, a first piercing element 120, and a second piercing element 122 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5D is a front view of a mixing chamber housing 118, a first piercing element 120, and a second piercing element 122 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5E is a perspective front view of a mixing chamber housing 118, a first piercing element 120, and a second piercing element 122 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] refer to Figures 1 to 5E The first piercing element 120 includes a first cylindrical base 124 ( Figure 5A ), the first cylindrical base is connected to the mixing chamber housing 118 and faces the first cylinder 110 (in Figure 2 The first piercing element 120 also includes a first tip 126 (shown in Figure 5A ), the first tip is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing 118 and disposed proximal to the first seal 112. The first piercing element 120 also includes a plurality of first walls 128 (in Figure 5A ), the plurality of first walls extend obliquely from the first cylindrical base 124 along the longitudinal axis LA. The plurality of first walls 128 are angularly spaced apart from each other at the first cylindrical base 124 and converge toward each other to intersect at the first tip 126. In some embodiments, the plurality of first walls 128 may be arranged equiangularly around the transverse axis LA. When a force F (at the second end 106 of the main housing 102) is applied Figure 2), the first piercing element 120 is configured to pierce the first seal 112. Fig. 6A 1 is a front view of the first seal 112 being pierced when a force F is applied at the second end 106 of the main housing 102. Specifically, the first tip 126 engages the first seal 112 and pierces the first seal into a plurality of first fins 112F corresponding to the plurality of first walls 128. In some embodiments, the plurality of first walls 128 is three first walls 128, and the plurality of first fins 112F is three first fins 112F corresponding to the three first walls 128. In some other embodiments, the plurality of first walls 128 may be four first walls 128, and the plurality of first fins 112F may be four first fins 112F corresponding to the four first walls 128. In some other embodiments, the plurality of first walls 128 may be five first walls 128, and the plurality of first fins 112F may be five first fins 112F corresponding to the five first walls 128. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first walls 128 is substantially triangular.

[0068] The second piercing element 122 includes a second cylindrical base 130 (at Figure 5A ), the second cylindrical base is connected to the mixing chamber housing 118 and extends toward the second barrel 114. The second piercing element 122 includes a second tip 132 (at Figure 5A ), the second tip is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing 118 and disposed proximal to the second seal 116. The second piercing element 122 includes a plurality of second walls 134 (in Figure 5A ), the plurality of second walls extend obliquely from the second cylindrical base 130 along the longitudinal axis LA. The plurality of second walls 134 are angularly spaced apart from each other at the second cylindrical base 130 and converge toward each other to intersect at the second tip 132. In some embodiments, the plurality of second walls 134 may be arranged equiangularly around the transverse axis LA. When a force F (at the second end 106 of the main housing 102) is applied Figure 4 ), the second piercing element 122 is configured to pierce the second seal 116. Figure 6B1 is a front view of the second seal 116 pierced when a force F is applied at the second end 106 of the main housing 102. Specifically, the second tip 132 engages the second seal 116 and pierces the second seal into a plurality of second fins 116F corresponding to the plurality of second walls 134. In some embodiments, the plurality of second walls 134 is three second walls 134, and the plurality of second fins 116F is three second fins 116F corresponding to the three second walls 134. In some other embodiments, the plurality of second walls 134 can be four second walls 134, and the plurality of second fins 116F can be four second fins 116F corresponding to the four second walls 134. In some other embodiments, the plurality of second walls 134 can be five second walls 134, and the plurality of second fins 116F can be five second fins 116F corresponding to the five second walls 134. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of second walls 134 is substantially triangular.

[0069] The fluid application device 100 also includes a nozzle 136 (at Figure 3 and Figure 4 ), the nozzle is connected to the mixing chamber housing 118 opposite each of the first piercing element 120 and the second piercing element 122. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional side view of a mixing chamber housing 118 and a nozzle 136 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is a front view of a nozzle 136 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 is a perspective front view of a nozzle 136 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.10 is a perspective cross-sectional front view of a mixing chamber housing 118 and a nozzle 136 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with some components not shown.

[0070] refer to Figures 1 to 10 , the nozzle 136 extends from the mixing chamber housing 118 to the applicator outlet 108. In some embodiments, the nozzle 136 extends from the mixing chamber housing 118 to the applicator tip of the housing 102 defining the applicator outlet 108. The nozzle 136 and the mixing chamber housing 118 define a mixing chamber cavity 138 (at Fig.10 A force F is applied at the second end 106 of the main housing 102 (at Figure 2 ), the first piercing element 120 engages and pierces the first seal 112, thereby forming a first fluid path P1 between the first barrel 110 and the mixing chamber cavity 138 (at Fig.10 ). The first fluid F1 flows from the first barrel 110 through the first fluid path P1 to the mixing chamber cavity 138. When a force F is applied at the second end 106 of the main housing 102 (at Figure 2), the second piercing element 122 engages and pierces the second seal 116, thereby forming a second fluid path P2 between the second barrel 114 and the mixing chamber cavity 138 (at Fig.10 ). The second fluid F2 flows from the second cylinder 114 through the second fluid path P2 to the mixing chamber cavity 138.

[0071] When the first tip 126 engages the first seal 112 (the seal heat bonds the foil to the barrel seal surface) and pierces the first seal into a plurality of first fins 112F corresponding to the plurality of first walls 128, the plurality of first fins 112F remain attached to the first seal 112 of the first barrel 110. Similarly, when the second tip 132 engages the second seal 116 and pierces the second seal into a plurality of second fins 116F corresponding to the plurality of second walls 134, the plurality of second fins 116F remain attached to the second seal 116 of the second barrel 114. In other words, upon piercing the respective first and second seals 112, 116, the plurality of first and second fins 112F, 116F do not disengage from the respective first and second seals 112, 116. Due to the geometric design of the first piercing element 120 and the second piercing element 122, the plurality of first tabs 112F remain attached to the first seal 112 of the first barrel 110, and the plurality of second tabs 116F remain attached to the second seal 116 of the second barrel 114. Thus, no portion of the foil of the first seal 112 is torn off from the first barrel 110, and no portion of the foil of the second seal 116 is torn off from the second barrel 114. In other words, when the foils of the first and second seals 112, 116 are pierced, the foil tabs remain attached to the respective first and second barrels 110, 114. This ensures that during a dispensing operation performed by the fluid applicator 100, components of the applicator tip such as the mixing chamber cavity 138, the nozzle 136, and / or the housing 102 defining the applicator outlet 108 may not be blocked by any torn off pieces of the first and second seals 112, 116, which is otherwise a challenge in conventional fluid applicators / dispensers.

[0072] In some embodiments, the mixing chamber housing 118 and the nozzle 136 further define a first portion 140 (at the position indicated on the right) that is substantially aligned with the first piercing element 120 along the longitudinal axis LA. Figure 7 The first fluid F1 (in Figure 3 ) flows from the first cylinder 110 through the first fluid path P1 (shown in Figure 3 The mixing chamber housing 118 and the nozzle 136 also define a second portion 142 that is substantially aligned with the second piercing element 122 along the longitudinal axis LA. The second fluid F2 (shown in Figure 3) flows from the second cylinder 114 through the second fluid path P2 (shown in Figure 3 ) reaches the second portion 142.

[0073] The mixing chamber housing 118 and the nozzle 136 also define a mixing through hole 144 (at Figures 8 to 10 ), the mixing through hole is arranged between the first part 140 and the second part 142 along the transverse axis TA orthogonal to the longitudinal axis LA. The first fluid F1 flows through the first part 140 to reach the mixing through hole 144. The second fluid F2 flows through the second part 142 to reach the mixing through hole 144.

[0074] In some embodiments, the mixing chamber housing 118 and the nozzle 136 further define a flow restrictor 146 (at Figure 8 and Fig. 9 ), the restrictor is disposed on the nozzle 136 and is disposed between the first portion 140 and the mixing through hole 144 along the transverse axis TA and extends along a sagittal axis SA orthogonal to each of the transverse axis TA and the longitudinal axis LA, so that the restrictor 146 restricts the first fluid F1 (at Figure 7 144). In some embodiments, the restrictor 146 blocks a cross-sectional area A1 in a plane defined by the sagittal axis SA and the longitudinal axis LA by greater than or equal to about 20% and less than or equal to about 80% to restrict the flow of the first fluid F1 from the first portion 140 to the mixing through-hole 144. Thus, the cross-sectional area A1 is defined in the SA-LA plane. In other embodiments, the restrictor 146 blocks a cross-sectional area A1 by greater than or equal to about 30% and less than or equal to about 70% to restrict the flow of the first fluid F1 from the first portion 140 to the mixing through-hole 144. In other embodiments, the restrictor 146 blocks a cross-sectional area A1 by about 50% to restrict the flow of the first fluid F1 from the first portion 140 to the mixing through-hole 144.

[0075] The restrictor 146 can slow down the initial dispensing of the first fluid F1 (ie, the fluid with the lower viscosity). The desired tensile strength of the initial portion of the dispensed bead is due to the second viscosity V2 of the second fluid F2 (in Figure 7 ) compared to the first viscosity V1 of the first fluid F1 (in Figure 7 140 ) is relatively low, and the flow rate of the first fluid F1 needs to be limited. Therefore, the restrictor 146 limits or restricts the flow of the first fluid F1 from the first part 140 to the mixing through hole 144, and thus can improve the tensile strength of the initial part of the distribution bead formed by uniformly mixing the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2.

[0076] In some embodiments, the fluid application device 100 further includes a nozzle gasket 148 (in Figure 7 and Fig.10 ), the nozzle gasket is disposed inside the mixing chamber housing 118 and forms a sealing contact between the mixing chamber housing 118 and the nozzle 136. In other words, the nozzle gasket 148 can provide a leak-proof attachment of the nozzle 136 to the mixing chamber housing 118. Fig.11 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 1. A front view of the nozzle 136 and nozzle gasket 148 of the fluid applicator 100, with other components not shown. Fig.12 1 is a front view of a nozzle gasket 148 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In such embodiments, the nozzle 136, the mixing chamber housing 118, and the nozzle gasket 148 define the mixing chamber cavity 138.

[0077] refer to Figures 7 to 12 , the nozzle gasket 148 defines a first through hole 152 in fluid communication with the first fluid path P1. The nozzle gasket 148 also defines a second through hole 154 in fluid communication with the second fluid path P2. In other words, the first through hole 152 of the nozzle gasket 148 provides input from the first barrel 110, and the second through hole 154 of the nozzle gasket 148 provides input from the second barrel 114.

[0078] The nozzle gasket 148 further defines a third through-hole 156 disposed between the first through-hole 152 and the second through-hole 154 along the transverse axis TA, such that a portion of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 flowing from the respective first fluid path P1 and the second fluid path P2 is captured within the third through-hole 156. Specifically, a portion of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 flowing from the respective first fluid path P1 and the second fluid path P2 is captured within the third through-hole 156. More specifically, a portion of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 flowing from the respective first fluid path P1 and the second fluid path P2 flows in the opposite direction of the flow from the mixing chamber cavity 138 into the nozzle 136 to be captured within the third through-hole 156.

[0079] Thus, when the first fluid F1 (ie, the fluid having a lower viscosity) initially directs the second fluid F2 (ie, the fluid having a higher viscosity) upon activation, the third through-holes 156 capture or trap the initial dispense flow.

[0080] Thus, the third through hole 156 serves as a fluid trap to capture the initial distribution bead (i.e., the portion of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 flowing from the respective first fluid path P1 and the second fluid path P2). In some embodiments, the volume of the portion of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 captured within the third through hole 156 is greater than or equal to about 5 mm 3 and less than or equal to about 25 mm 3 .

[0081] In some embodiments, the nozzle 136 also includes a nozzle body 158 in fluid communication with the mixing chamber cavity 138. In some embodiments, the nozzle 136 also includes a static mixer 160 disposed within the nozzle body 158. For illustrative purposes, the static mixer 160 is Figure 8 and Fig.10 The static mixer 160 mixes the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 before delivering the dispensing beads via the applicator outlet 108 .

[0082] Including the third through hole 156 in the nozzle gasket 148 can remove the initial material (e.g., the initial portion of the first fluid F1) that can be directed to the static mixer 160 in the nozzle 136. Therefore, the final quality of the product dispensed through the applicator outlet 108 can be good because the initial material that cannot be mixed is trapped. This can further improve the tensile strength of the dispensed bead formed by mixing the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2.

[0083] The nozzle 136 also includes a nozzle tip 162 that defines a nozzle outlet 164 for dispensing at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 from the nozzle 136. The nozzle tip 162 is connected to the nozzle body 158 and extends from the nozzle body. The nozzle outlet 164 may have a substantially circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the nozzle outlet 164 may have a substantially rectangular cross-section.

[0084] Fig.13 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of the first end 104 of the fluid application device 102. Specifically, Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of the first end 104 of the fluid applicator 102 in a plane defined by the longitudinal axis LA and the sagittal axis SA. Fig.14 is a front view of a first end 104 of a fluid applicator 102 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.15 is a rear view of the first end 104 of the fluid applicator 102 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.16 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1Another cross-sectional view of the first end portion 104 of the fluid application device 102. Specifically, Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view of the first end 104 of the fluid applicator 102 in a plane defined by the longitudinal axis LA and the transverse axis TA.

[0085] refer to Fig.13 In some embodiments, the main housing 102 includes a capture well 166 adjacent to the applicator outlet 164 so that the nozzle outlet 108 (at Figure 7 The first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 (shown in FIG. Figure 3 164) is captured within the capture well 166. In some embodiments, the applicator tip of the main housing 102 includes the capture well 166. In some embodiments, the portion of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 captured within the capture well 166 is greater than or equal to about 2% and less than or equal to about 15% of the total volume of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 to be dispensed from the nozzle outlet 164. In some embodiments, the portion of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 captured within the capture well 166 is about 5% of the total volume of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 to be dispensed from the nozzle outlet 164.

[0086] The capture well 166 serves as a fluid catcher to capture an initial mass of the mixture of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 after the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 are mixed within the mixing chamber cavity 138 and pass through the nozzle body 158. Thus, a desired tensile strength of the dispensed bead can be obtained by capturing a portion of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 within the capture well 166.

[0087] like Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, in some embodiments, the applicator outlet 108 has a substantially rectangular cross-section or an elliptical cross-section. In other embodiments, the applicator outlet 108 may have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0088] In some embodiments, the applicator outlet 108 comprises a maximum outlet width W1 (at Fig.15 ) and a maximum outlet thickness T1 (in Fig.15 ). The maximum outlet width W1 is at least 3 times the maximum outlet thickness T1. In some embodiments, the maximum outlet width W1 may be at least 4 times or at least 5 times the maximum outlet thickness T1.

[0089] Such dimensions of the maximum outlet width W1 and the maximum outlet thickness T1 of the applicator outlet 108 can provide a desired height and width of the dispensed bead formed by mixing the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2. Such dimensions of the applicator outlet 108 can enable the dispensed bead to achieve a desired profile shape after exiting through the nozzle 136.

[0090] In some embodiments, the maximum outlet width W1 of the applicator outlet 108 is equal to the maximum outlet width D1 of the nozzle outlet 164 (in Figure 7 ) is greater than or equal to about 2 and less than or equal to about 5. In other embodiments, the ratio between the maximum outlet width W1 of the applicator outlet 108 and the maximum outlet width D1 of the nozzle outlet 164 is about 3.8. In some embodiments, the ratio between the applicator outlet area A2 of the applicator outlet 108 and the nozzle outlet area A3 of the nozzle outlet 164 (shown in Figure 7 ) is greater than or equal to about 5 and less than or equal to about 20. In other embodiments, the ratio between the applicator outlet area A2 of the applicator outlet 108 and the nozzle outlet area A3 of the nozzle outlet 164 is about 14.44.

[0091] In some embodiments, the main housing 102 further includes an outlet interface 168 proximal to the applicator outlet 108 (at Fig.13 and Fig.16 In some embodiments, the applicator tip of the main housing 102 includes an outlet interface 168. The nozzle tip 162 (shown in Figure 7 ) is configured to be coupled to the outlet interface 168. In this manner, the nozzle 136 is in fluid communication with the applicator outlet 108.

[0092] In some embodiments, the outlet interface 168 includes a fluid separator 170 disposed between the nozzle outlet 164 and the applicator outlet 108 (at Figures 14 to 16 At least a portion 172 of the fluid separator 170 proximal to the nozzle outlet 164 (in Fig.16 ) in the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 (in Figure 31 and 108 ) such that the flow of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 from the nozzle outlet 164 is directed outwardly toward the edge of the applicator outlet 108. In some embodiments, the remaining portion 174 of the fluid separator 170 proximal to the applicator outlet 108 tapers inwardly relative to the longitudinal axis LA in the flow direction of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 such that the flow of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 from the nozzle outlet 164 is directed inwardly toward the center of the applicator outlet 108.

[0093] In some embodiments, a portion 172 of the fluid separator 170 tapers outwardly such that the flow of the mixture of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 from the nozzle outlet 164 is directed outwardly toward the edge of the applicator outlet 108. In some embodiments, the remaining portion 174 of the fluid separator 170 tapers inwardly such that the flow of the mixture of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 from the nozzle outlet 164 is directed inwardly toward the center of the applicator outlet 108.

[0094] Thus, the fluid separator 170 directs the flow of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 or the mixture of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 from the nozzle outlet 164 toward the edge and the center of the applicator outlet 108. Such a flow direction of at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 from the nozzle outlet 164 to the applicator outlet 108 can ensure that at least one of the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 is evenly spread and can provide a desired height and width of the dispensed bead exiting the applicator outlet 108.

[0095] In some embodiments, a fluid application device 100 according to the present disclosure may include an outlet interface 168 including a fluid separator 170 (in Fig.15 ), and a capture well 166 adjacent to the applicator outlet 108 (shown in Fig.13 In some embodiments, the fluid applicator 100 may include a fluid separator 170 and an applicator outlet 108 having a maximum outlet width W1 that is at least 3 times the maximum outlet thickness T1 (in Fig.15 In some embodiments, a fluid application device 100 according to the present disclosure may include a fluid separator 170, a capture well 166, and an application device outlet 108, such as Fig.15 shown.

[0096] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing feature sizes, amounts, and physical properties used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoing specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings disclosed herein.

[0097] Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a variety of alternative and / or equivalent implementations may replace the specific embodiments shown and described without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This application is intended to cover any adaptation or variation of the specific embodiments discussed herein. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to be limited only by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A fluid application device, comprising: a main housing including a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the main housing extending along a longitudinal axis defined between the first end and the second end, wherein the main housing defines an applicator outlet disposed at the first end; a first cylinder disposed within the main housing and comprising a first seal for retaining a first fluid, wherein at least 85% of a total volume of the first cylinder is filled with the first fluid; a second barrel spaced apart from the first barrel and disposed within the main housing, the second barrel comprising a second seal for retaining a second fluid different from the first fluid, wherein at least 85% of the total volume of the second barrel is filled with the second fluid; a mixing chamber housing disposed within the main housing and spaced apart from each of the first barrel and the second barrel along the longitudinal axis; a first piercing element, the first piercing element being substantially aligned with the first seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the first barrel, the first piercing element comprising: a first cylindrical base, the first cylindrical base being connected to the mixing chamber housing and extending toward the first barrel; a first tip, the first tip being spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and disposed proximal to the first seal; and a plurality of first walls, the plurality of first walls extending obliquely from the first cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of first walls being angularly spaced apart from each other at the first cylindrical base and converging toward each other to intersect at the first tip; a second piercing element, the second piercing element being substantially aligned with the second seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the second barrel, the second piercing element comprising: a second cylindrical base, the second cylindrical base being connected to the mixing chamber housing and extending toward the second barrel; a second tip, the second tip being spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and disposed proximal to the second seal; and a plurality of second walls, the plurality of second walls obliquely extending from the second cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of second walls being angularly spaced apart from each other at the second cylindrical base and converging toward each other to intersect at the second tip; and a nozzle connected to the mixing chamber housing opposite each of the first piercing element and the second piercing element, the nozzle extending from the mixing chamber housing to the applicator outlet, wherein the nozzle and the mixing chamber housing define a mixing chamber cavity; wherein when a force is applied at the second end of the main housing: The first tip engages the first seal and pierces the first seal into a plurality of first fins corresponding to the plurality of first walls, thereby forming a first fluid path between the first barrel and the mixing chamber cavity, wherein the first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity; and The second tip engages the second seal and pierces the second seal into a plurality of second fins corresponding to the plurality of second walls, thereby forming a second fluid path between the second barrel and the mixing chamber cavity, wherein the second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity.

2. The fluid applicator of claim 1, wherein a first viscosity of the first fluid is different from a second viscosity of the second fluid. 3 . The fluid application device of claim 2 , wherein a ratio between a second viscosity of the second fluid and a first viscosity of the first fluid is greater than or equal to 2. 4 .

4. The fluid applicator of claim 1, wherein: The plurality of first walls are three first walls, and the plurality of first fins are three first fins corresponding to the three first walls; and The plurality of second walls are three second walls, and the plurality of second fins are three second fins corresponding to the three second walls.

5. The fluid applicator of claim 1, wherein the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle further define: a first portion, the first portion being substantially aligned with the first piercing element along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the first portion; a second portion, the second portion being substantially aligned with the second piercing element along the longitudinal axis, wherein the second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the second portion; a mixing through-hole in fluid communication with the mixing chamber cavity, the mixing through-hole being disposed between the first portion and the second portion along a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first fluid flows through the first portion to the mixing through-hole; and wherein the second fluid flows through the second portion to the mixing through-hole; as well as A restrictor is disposed on the nozzle and is disposed between the first portion and the mixing through-hole along the transverse axis and extends along a sagittal axis orthogonal to each of the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis, so that the restrictor restricts the flow of the first fluid from the first portion to the mixing through-hole.

6. The fluid applicator of claim 5, wherein the flow restrictor blocks greater than or equal to about 20% and less than or equal to about 80% of a cross-sectional area in a plane defined by the sagittal axis and the longitudinal axis to restrict flow of the first fluid from the first portion to the mixing through hole.

7. The fluid application device of claim 1, further comprising a nozzle gasket disposed within the mixing chamber housing and forming a sealing contact between the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle, the nozzle gasket defining: a first through hole, the first through hole being in fluid communication with the first fluid path; a second through hole in fluid communication with the second fluid path; and A third through hole is disposed between the first through hole and the second through hole along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, so that a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the corresponding first fluid path and the second fluid path is captured in the third through hole.

8. The fluid application device of claim 7, wherein the volume of the portion of the at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid trapped within the third through hole is greater than or equal to about 5 mm 3 and less than or equal to about 25 mm 3 .

9. The fluid application device of claim 1, wherein the nozzle further comprises: a nozzle body in fluid communication with the mixing chamber cavity; a static mixer, the static mixer being disposed inside the nozzle body; as well as A nozzle tip defines a nozzle outlet for dispensing at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle, the nozzle tip being connected to and extending from the nozzle body, wherein the nozzle outlet has a substantially circular cross-section.

10. The fluid applicator of claim 9, wherein the main housing includes a capture well adjacent to the applicator outlet such that a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the nozzle outlet is captured within the capture well.

11. A fluid application device according to claim 10, wherein the portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid captured within the capture wellbore is greater than or equal to about 2% and less than or equal to about 15% of the total volume of the first fluid and the second fluid to be dispensed from the nozzle outlet.

12. The fluid applicator of claim 1, wherein the applicator outlet has a substantially rectangular cross-section or an elliptical cross-section.

13. The fluid applicator of claim 9, wherein the applicator outlet comprises a maximum outlet width along a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a maximum outlet thickness orthogonal to each of the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis, and wherein the maximum outlet width is at least 3 times the maximum outlet thickness.

14. The fluid applicator of claim 13, wherein a ratio between a maximum outlet width of the applicator outlet and a maximum outlet width of the nozzle outlet is greater than or equal to about 2 and less than or equal to about 5.

15. The fluid applicator of claim 9, wherein a ratio between an applicator discharge area of ​​the applicator outlet and a nozzle discharge area of ​​the nozzle outlet is greater than or equal to about 5 and less than or equal to about 20.

16. The fluid applicator of claim 9, wherein the main housing further comprises an outlet interface proximal to the applicator outlet, and wherein the nozzle tip is configured to couple to the outlet interface.

17. A fluid application device according to claim 16, wherein the outlet interface includes a fluid separator disposed between the nozzle outlet and the application device outlet, wherein at least a portion of the fluid separator proximal to the nozzle outlet tapers outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis in the flow direction of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid, so that the flow of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle outlet is directed outwardly toward an edge of the application device outlet.

18. A fluid application device according to claim 17, wherein the remaining portion of the fluid separator proximal to the application device outlet tapers inwardly relative to the longitudinal axis in the flow direction of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid, so that the flow of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle outlet is directed inwardly toward the center of the application device outlet.

19. The fluid applicator of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of first walls is substantially triangular.

20. The fluid applicator of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of second walls is substantially triangular.

21. A fluid application device, comprising: a main housing including a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the main housing extending along a longitudinal axis defined between the first end and the second end, wherein the main housing defines an applicator outlet disposed at the first end; a first barrel disposed within the main housing and comprising a first seal for retaining a first fluid; a second barrel spaced apart from the first barrel and disposed within the main housing, the second barrel including a second seal for retaining a second fluid different from the first fluid; a mixing chamber housing disposed within the main housing and spaced apart from each of the first barrel and the second barrel along the longitudinal axis; a first piercing element substantially aligned with the first seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the first barrel; a second piercing element substantially aligned with the second seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the second barrel; a nozzle connected to the mixing chamber housing opposite each of the first piercing element and the second piercing element, the nozzle extending from the mixing chamber housing to the applicator outlet, wherein the nozzle and the mixing chamber housing define a mixing chamber cavity; wherein when a force is applied at the second end of the main housing: The first piercing element engages and pierces the first seal, thereby forming a first fluid path between the first barrel and the mixing chamber cavity, wherein the first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity; and the second piercing element engaging and piercing the second seal to form a second fluid path between the second barrel and the mixing chamber cavity, wherein the second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity; and a nozzle gasket disposed inside the mixing chamber housing and forming a sealing contact between the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle, the nozzle gasket defining: a first through hole, the first through hole being in fluid communication with the first fluid path; a second through hole, the second through hole being in fluid communication with the second fluid path; as well as A third through hole is disposed between the first through hole and the second through hole along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, so that a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the corresponding first fluid path and the second fluid path is captured in the third through hole.

22. The fluid applicator of claim 21, wherein a first viscosity of the first fluid is different than a second viscosity of the second fluid.

23. The fluid applicator of claim 22, wherein a ratio between a second viscosity of the second fluid and a first viscosity of the first fluid is greater than or equal to 2.

24. The fluid application device of claim 21, wherein the volume of the portion of the at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid trapped within the third through hole is greater than or equal to about 5 mm 3 and less than or equal to about 25 mm 3 .

25. The fluid applicator of claim 21, wherein: The first piercing element includes: a first cylindrical base, the first cylindrical base is connected to the mixing chamber housing and extends toward the first barrel; a first tip, the first tip is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and is disposed proximal to the first seal; and a plurality of first walls, the plurality of first walls extending obliquely from the first cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of first walls being angularly spaced apart from each other at the first cylindrical base and converging toward each other to intersect at the first tip, wherein the first tip engages the first seal and pierces the first seal into a plurality of first fins corresponding to the plurality of first walls; and The second piercing element includes: a second cylindrical base, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing and extends toward the second barrel; a second tip, which is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and disposed proximal to the second seal; and a plurality of second walls, which extend obliquely from the second cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of second walls being angularly spaced apart from each other at the second cylindrical base and converging toward each other to intersect at the second tip, wherein the second tip engages the second seal and pierces the second seal into a plurality of second fins corresponding to the plurality of second walls.

26. The fluid applicator of claim 25, wherein each of the plurality of first walls is substantially triangular.

27. The fluid applicator of claim 25, wherein each of the plurality of second walls is substantially triangular.

28. The fluid applicator of claim 25, wherein: The plurality of first walls are three first walls, and the plurality of first fins are three first fins corresponding to the three first walls; and The plurality of second walls are three second walls, and the plurality of second fins are three second fins corresponding to the three second walls.

29. The fluid applicator of claim 21, wherein the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle further define: a first portion, the first portion being substantially aligned with the first piercing element along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the first portion; a second portion, the second portion being substantially aligned with the second piercing element along the longitudinal axis, wherein the second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the second portion; a mixing through-hole in fluid communication with the mixing chamber cavity, the mixing through-hole being disposed along the transverse axis between the first portion and the second portion, wherein the first fluid flows through the first portion to the mixing through-hole; and wherein the second fluid flows through the second portion to the mixing through-hole; as well as A restrictor is disposed on the nozzle and is disposed between the first portion and the mixing through-hole along the transverse axis and extends along a sagittal axis orthogonal to each of the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis, so that the restrictor restricts the flow of the first fluid from the first portion to the mixing through-hole.

30. The fluid applicator of claim 29, wherein the flow restrictor blocks greater than or equal to about 20% and less than or equal to about 80% of a cross-sectional area in a plane defined by the sagittal axis and the longitudinal axis to restrict flow of the first fluid from the first portion to the mixing through hole.

31. The fluid applicator of claim 21, wherein the nozzle comprises: a nozzle body in fluid communication with the mixing chamber cavity; a static mixer, the static mixer being disposed inside the nozzle body; as well as A nozzle tip defines a nozzle outlet for dispensing at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle, the nozzle tip being connected to and extending from the nozzle body, wherein the nozzle outlet has a substantially circular cross-section.

32. The fluid applicator of claim 31 , wherein the main housing includes a capture well adjacent to the applicator outlet such that a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the nozzle outlet is captured within the capture well.

33. A fluid application device according to claim 32, wherein the portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid captured within the capture wellbore is greater than or equal to about 2% and less than or equal to about 15% of the total volume of the first fluid and the second fluid to be dispensed from the nozzle outlet.

34. The fluid applicator of claim 21, wherein the applicator outlet has a substantially rectangular cross-section or an elliptical cross-section.

35. The fluid applicator of claim 31 , wherein the applicator outlet comprises a maximum outlet width along the transverse axis and a maximum outlet thickness orthogonal to each of the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis, and wherein the maximum outlet width is at least 3 times the maximum outlet thickness.

36. The fluid applicator of claim 35, wherein a ratio between a maximum outlet width of the applicator outlet and a maximum outlet width of the nozzle outlet is greater than or equal to about 2 and less than or equal to about 5.

37. The fluid applicator of claim 31 , wherein a ratio between an applicator discharge area of ​​the applicator outlet and a nozzle discharge area of ​​the nozzle outlet is greater than or equal to about 5 and less than or equal to about 20.

38. The fluid applicator of claim 31 , wherein the main housing further comprises an outlet interface proximal to the applicator outlet, and wherein the nozzle tip is configured to couple to the outlet interface.

39. A fluid application device according to claim 38, wherein the outlet interface includes a fluid separator arranged between the nozzle outlet and the application device outlet, wherein at least a portion of the fluid separator proximal to the nozzle outlet tapers outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis in the flow direction of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid, so that the flow of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle outlet is directed outwardly toward the edge of the application device outlet.

40. A fluid application device according to claim 39, wherein the remaining portion of the fluid separator proximal to the application device outlet tapers inwardly relative to the longitudinal axis in the flow direction of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid, so that the flow of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle is directed inwardly toward the center of the application device outlet.

41. A fluid application device, comprising: a main housing including a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the main housing extending along a longitudinal axis defined between the first end and the second end, wherein the main housing defines an applicator outlet disposed at the first end, and wherein the applicator outlet has a substantially rectangular cross-section or an elliptical cross-section; a first barrel disposed within the main housing and comprising a first seal for retaining a first fluid; a second barrel spaced apart from the first barrel and disposed within the main housing, the second barrel including a second seal for retaining a second fluid different from the first fluid; a mixing chamber housing disposed within the main housing and spaced apart from each of the first barrel and the second barrel along the longitudinal axis; a first piercing element substantially aligned with the first seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the first barrel; a second piercing element substantially aligned with the second seal along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the mixing chamber housing and the second barrel; as well as a nozzle connected to the mixing chamber housing opposite each of the first piercing element and the second piercing element, the nozzle extending from the mixing chamber housing to the applicator outlet, wherein the nozzle and the mixing chamber housing define a mixing chamber cavity; wherein when a force is applied at the second end of the main housing: The first piercing element engages and pierces the first seal, thereby forming a first fluid path between the first barrel and the mixing chamber cavity, wherein the first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity; and The second piercing element engages and pierces the second seal to form a second fluid path between the second barrel and the mixing chamber cavity, wherein the second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the mixing chamber cavity.

42. The fluid applicator of claim 41, wherein a first viscosity of the first fluid is different than a second viscosity of the second fluid.

43. The fluid applicator of claim 42, wherein a ratio between a second viscosity of the second fluid and a first viscosity of the first fluid is greater than or equal to 2.

44. The fluid applicator of claim 41, wherein the nozzle comprises: a nozzle body in fluid communication with the mixing chamber cavity; a static mixer, the static mixer being disposed inside the nozzle body; as well as A nozzle tip defines a nozzle outlet for dispensing at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle, the nozzle tip being connected to and extending from the nozzle body, wherein the nozzle outlet has a substantially circular cross-section.

45. A fluid applicator according to claim 41, wherein the applicator outlet comprises a maximum outlet width along a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a maximum outlet thickness orthogonal to each of the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis, and wherein the maximum outlet width is at least 3 times the maximum outlet thickness.

46. ​​The fluid applicator of claim 45, wherein a ratio between a maximum outlet width of the applicator outlet and a maximum outlet width of the nozzle outlet is greater than or equal to about 2 and less than or equal to about 5.

47. The fluid applicator of claim 41, wherein a ratio between an applicator discharge area of ​​the applicator outlet and a nozzle discharge area of ​​the nozzle outlet is greater than or equal to about 5 and less than or equal to about 20.

48. The fluid applicator of claim 44, wherein the main housing further comprises an outlet interface proximal to the applicator outlet, and wherein the nozzle tip is configured to couple to the outlet interface.

49. A fluid application device according to claim 48, wherein the outlet interface includes a fluid separator disposed between the nozzle outlet and the application device outlet, wherein at least a portion of the fluid separator proximal to the nozzle outlet tapers outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis in the flow direction of the mixed fluid, so that the flow of the mixed fluid from the nozzle is directed outwardly toward the edge of the application device outlet.

50. A fluid application device according to claim 49, wherein the remaining portion of the fluid separator proximal to the application device outlet tapers inwardly relative to the longitudinal axis in the flow direction of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid, so that the flow of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid from the nozzle is directed inwardly toward the center of the application device outlet.

51. The fluid applicator of claim 41, wherein: The first piercing element includes: a first cylindrical base, the first cylindrical base is connected to the mixing chamber housing and extends toward the first barrel; a first tip, the first tip is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and is disposed proximal to the first seal; and a plurality of first walls, the plurality of first walls extending obliquely from the first cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of first walls being angularly spaced apart from each other at the first cylindrical base and converging toward each other to intersect at the first tip, wherein the first tip engages the first seal and pierces the first seal into a plurality of first fins corresponding to the plurality of first walls; and The second piercing element includes: a second cylindrical base, which is connected to the mixing chamber housing and extends toward the second barrel; a second tip, which is spaced apart from the mixing chamber housing and disposed proximal to the second seal; and a plurality of second walls, which extend obliquely from the second cylindrical base along the longitudinal axis, the plurality of second walls being angularly spaced apart from each other at the second cylindrical base and converging toward each other to intersect at the second tip, wherein the second tip engages the second seal and pierces the second seal into a plurality of second fins corresponding to the plurality of second walls.

52. The fluid applicator of claim 51 , wherein each of the plurality of first walls is substantially triangular.

53. The fluid applicator of claim 51 , wherein each of the plurality of second walls is substantially triangular.

54. The fluid applicator of claim 51, wherein: The plurality of first walls are three first walls, and the plurality of first fins are three first fins corresponding to the three first walls; and The plurality of second walls are three second walls, and the plurality of second fins are three second fins corresponding to the three second walls.

55. The fluid applicator of claim 41, wherein the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle further define: a first portion, the first portion being substantially aligned with the first piercing element along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first fluid flows from the first barrel through the first fluid path to the first portion; a second portion, the second portion being substantially aligned with the second piercing element along the longitudinal axis, wherein the second fluid flows from the second barrel through the second fluid path to the second portion; a mixing through-hole in fluid communication with the mixing chamber cavity, the mixing through-hole being disposed between the first portion and the second portion along a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first fluid flows through the first portion to the mixing through-hole; and wherein the second fluid flows through the second portion to the mixing through-hole; as well as A restrictor is disposed on the nozzle and is disposed between the first portion and the mixing through-hole along the transverse axis and extends along a sagittal axis orthogonal to each of the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis, so that the restrictor restricts the flow of the first fluid from the first portion to the mixing through-hole.

56. A fluid applicator according to claim 55, wherein the flow restrictor blocks greater than or equal to about 20% and less than or equal to about 80% of the cross-sectional area in the plane defined by the sagittal axis and the longitudinal axis to restrict the flow of the first fluid from the first portion to the mixing through hole.

57. The fluid applicator of claim 41, further comprising a nozzle gasket disposed within the mixing chamber housing and forming a sealing contact between the mixing chamber housing and the nozzle, the nozzle gasket defining: a first through hole, the first through hole being in fluid communication with the first fluid path; a second through hole in fluid communication with the second fluid path; and A third through hole is disposed between the first through hole and the second through hole along a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, so that a portion of the at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the corresponding first fluid path and the second fluid path is captured in the third through hole.

58. The fluid application device of claim 57, wherein the volume of the portion of the at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid trapped within the third through hole is greater than or equal to about 5 mm 3 and less than or equal to about 25 mm 3 .

59. The fluid applicator of claim 41, wherein the main housing includes a capture well adjacent to the applicator outlet such that a portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing from the nozzle outlet is captured within the capture well.

60. A fluid application device according to claim 59, wherein the portion of at least one of the first fluid and the second fluid captured within the capture wellbore is greater than or equal to about 2% and less than or equal to about 15% of the total volume of the first fluid and the second fluid to be dispensed from the nozzle outlet.

Images